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Not My Sister

By: Iread2relax



Hello everyone. Here is my new story. This story is a romantic story and a SLOW BURN. If you are looking for a stroker story, you may need to move on to someplace else. I want to thank Navaura and JR for their help and encouragement. It is self-edited, so any mistakes are min and mine alone. Please read and enjoy. Also vote and share your thoughts with me.



Troy stepped into the foyer of his childhood home feeling a sense of normalcy engulf him. When he left for school, he never intended to stay away for so long. But once he got there and became so engrossed in his studies, staying away was pretty easy. Besides, she had moved to the ranch and he'd do anything he could to avoid her, his stepsister, Iesha.

Troy couldn't stand Iesha. He often wondered, How could a woman as wonderful as his stepmother produce such a bitch of a daughter? He recalled meeting his stepsister for the first time.

"Son, we're having dinner at a fancy restaurant tonight. Mary is bringing her little girl. I want you to be mindful and show your manners." Trent told his eighteen year old son.

Troy was always respectful. This trait had been driven into him by his Mom years before. He missed his Mom, but she was gone. Cancer had taken her and his dad had finally moved on. Mary was nice and Troy really liked her. Why was Dad telling him this? He always minded his manners. Troy thought.

He considered himself a good son. He had just turned seventeen when his Dad met Mary, and at first he was apprehensive; But as he got to know her, he developed a great deal of respect for the quiet spoken woman.

She was beautiful and he hoped to meet a girl just like her one day. Troy was not the most handsome guy, but Mary made him feel like he was. She always called him handsome, kind, and strong. Eventually, he started believing her. In fact, since she'd come into their lives, his confidence had grown and he'd even started dating.

The few girls he'd dated loved him, but often they'd want someone a little rougher. They told Troy he was just too nice. 

He asked Mary about her daughter once, and saw sadness creep into her eyes. She explained the custody arrangements her ex-husband had with her. Troy couldn't believe that. Mary was perfect. How could anyone say she was not? He wanted to meet her ex-husband and tell him that his daughter was lucky to have Mary as a Mom.

Well soon he'd meet them. And he'd get to speak his mind. He was an adult now, and this was a free country. He didn't have to hold back. 

"Son, I've heard quite a bit about her ex-husband and their daughter. The girl can be a handful and her Dad, well..., so please, son. We have to make a good impression on them for Mary's sake. She's already nervous, so I'm counting on you to be a gentleman like I raised you to be." Trent told his son.

They left the ranch a little after four pm, to drive miles away to the city. Troy didn't understand it, but his Dad was very excited and nervous. Mary would normally meet them at the ranch and cook something. Why were they driving over one hundred miles away from home to meet her? Meeting some guy and her daughter wasn't that big of a deal.

They arrived in Carson and were at Avon's Restaurant within minutes. Dad pulled up front and one of the valets took the keys to the truck to park it. Troy and Trent entered the restaurant. Dressed in their Sunday best, they barely blended in with the upscale crowd.

As soon as they entered, the hostess greeted them and led them to their table where Mary was sitting with a gentleman waiting for them to arrive. When she saw them walk in, she looked relieved. The gentleman that was sitting with her saw them approaching and stood to shake both Trent and Troy's hands.

"Hello Trent, Troy. I'm Walter Michaels, Mary's ex-husband." He greeted, shaking their hands. "I'm so glad to meet you both. Trent, I know this was out of the way for you, but I'm only in the area for business tonight. Mary informed me that she was seeing someone and wanted our daughter to meet you. I hope you understand. I wanted to be here to make sure she's comfortable with you before allowing her to visit with Mary."

Trent looked at Mary whose face was dejected. He suspected that Walter had a few harsh words for her. He was instantly irritated. When he first met Mary, she was so withdrawn that it took six months of him teasing her to get her to open up to him. She needed a job, and he offered her a position of housekeeper at his ranch. Soon after, she met Troy. Under Mary's love and guidance, Troy had blossomed into a well outspoken, outgoing young man.

Trent knew that her ex-husband had obtained full custody of their daughter and only allowed limited visitation to Mary. He lorded his right over her at every opportunity. As the father of Mary's child, he also felt he had the right to screen her suitors.

Trent was about to let Mr. High and Mighty, Walter Michaels, know what he thought of him when he heard the softest sound.

A lovely young woman walked in. She was absolutely stunning. Creamy brown skin, lovely heart-shaped face with dimples, beautiful big brown eye, and long curly locks topped her short but sturdy frame. Troy, who was rendered speechless, was dumbfounded by her beauty. She was the spitting image of her mother.

"Ah, sweetheart, Come. Sit. This is your mother's friend Trent and his son," Walter stopped.

"Troy," Trent interjected. He didn't like Michaels. Mary was so quiet, as if she was afraid to speak.

"Right, Troy." Walter concluded as he held out his daughter's seat and she sat down.

Iesha glared at the two people who had joined them. She disliked them instantly. She hated when her parents dated others; it made it less likely that she'd get her wish. She watched that guy, Trent, look at her Mom, and even she could tell her really liked her. Then she looked at his son. Man he was cute, but he was the enemy. She'd treat them accordingly and then see if they still wanted to be around her mother.

Trent and Troy looked at the young lady that joined them and felt the waves of hostility towards them roll off of her. She didn't like them. Trent figured she wouldn't like any man that wasn't her father. Troy, on the other hand, was floored for a second by her natural beauty. With flawless skin, a creamy brown complexion, shoulder length black hair and the brightest brown eyes, he'd never seen a more beautiful girl. Then she opened her mouth and the illusion was shattered.

Mary, who saw Troy sitting and looking uncomfortable, finally spoke smiling. "Troy, you look so handsome tonight. I almost didn't recognize you." It was obvious her daughter was at her worse, but he shouldn't have to bear the brunt of her ill-manners. Troy beamed. Mary was always encouraging him. Always telling him how wonderful and special he was. 

"Thank you, Mary. I'm glad you like what I'm wearing." Troy replied shyly.

Trent sat beside her and squeezed her hand. She returned the gesture and lifted her head. Iesha not one to be left out, made herself known.

"Momma, why did you wear that ugly dress? You should have let daddy buy you something nice to wear." She interjected rudely.

Trent sputtered; Troy gawked at her; Mary gasped. The audacity of this girl was unreal. Her Dad sat guileless as if she hadn't just openly insulted her mother.

Mary was furious. She didn't like the way Walter was raising their daughter but legally she had no power to do anything about it.

"Iesha, the dress I'm wearing is fine. Sweetheart, there's more to life than clothes. One day-" she tried to explain when Iesha interrupted.

"Daddy, how long do we have to stay here? I want to go home." She complained as she took out her phone to chat with her friends.

Mary frowned and glanced at Trent, wondering what he was thinking. Trent watched Iesha, because he didn't like how she was acting. This little girl was spoiled, had a nasty attitude, and was extremely rude. He was about to correct her when Mary laid her hand on his thigh, silently pleading with him not to say anything.

Mary looked at her daughter and simply reprimanded her. "Iesha, you are being extremely rude and disrespectful, right now. Please, stop it. Now, we are about to have dinner. Put your phone away."

Iesha crossed her arms and glared angrily at her mother. Humping her shoulders and rolling her eyes, she replied. "Um, you can't tell me what to do. So...No, I'm talking with my friends." Then she continued typing on the phone.

Finally, Walter had enough and he said, "Iesha, put the phone up like your mother told you too.  Now!! We'll talk about your behavior when we get back to our hotel." Reluctantly, Iesha put away her phone, grumbling under her breath. Her Dad had a lot of nerve speaking to her that way. Iesha decided to show everyone who was better, so she zeroed in on the other young person sitting at the table, Troy.

Obviously, she had noticed Troy as soon as she sat down. He was cute for a white boy with brown hair, dark grey eyes, and the cutest dimple, but he wasn't rich, so it didn't matter how she treated him. He was watching her and she could tell from his expression that he didn't like her. Well, she surmised, he was probably just jealous.

"So Trey, can you talk or are you retarded or something?" Iesha asked, deliberately mispronouncing his name, in a nasty tone with a cruel smirk on her face.

Troy started to reply, but his dad stopped him. "I can talk, but I don't want to talk to a nasty, evil little-"

Trent stood, slamming his napkin on the table, he'd heard enough. "Young lady, that was uncalled for. Walter you need to... Um, Mary, we're leaving. Walter, Iesha, I wish I could say it was nice meeting you, but that would be a lie. Come on son, let's go."

Troy stood and followed his father as they walked out of the restaurant. Mary quickly followed them apologizing. 

"Trent, I'm sorry. Troy, she's just acting..." inhaling Mary continuing as she looked away from Trent. "I know you don't want to see me again and I understand."

As they stood waiting for his truck to be brought around, Trent asked. "Can you come with us now, Mary?"

Mary looked at him and then back towards the restaurant. "I can't. My visits with her are set by him. If I leave, he won't let me see her-"

Trent kissed her gently. "Mary, I don't want to leave you with them, but I know you want to spend time with your daughter. As soon as they leave, I want you to call me and I'll come get you. Alright, honey." He then held her tightly for a moment as the valet drove up with his truck.

Troy gave Mary a big hug too, and told her nothing that happened was her fault.

After Trent, Troy, and Mary left the table, Walter looked at his daughter. She was cruel, malicious even; he could see the smirk she was trying to hide. He wondered when his little angel turned into this hateful, spiteful little girl.

"Iesha, that was rude. You had no right to speak to your mother and her friends that way." He admonished her.

Iesha looked at her dad sullenly with a pouty voice, "Daddy what did I do now?" she queried. But deep down she knew exactly what she'd done. She did it on purpose. Her mother barely spoke to her but she told Troy he looked nice. She barely complimented her. Although she smiled and told her she was lovely, her eyes held more warmth when she spoke to Troy. So she wanted to let Troy know who was really in charge and she did.

Soon thereafter Mary returned to the table and they finished their awkward, uncomfortable dinner.

"Mary, I'm sorry." Walter addressed her while they pretended to eat. "I can call Trent and apologize if you need me to."

Mary gaped at him. Could he really be that clueless? You don't raise a child to think that this behavior was alright. If he'd let me spend time with her, then maybe...

"Walter, don't." Mary whispered. "Just don't. How can you let her-" Iesha interrupted her again.

"This isn't daddy's fault. You can't blame him. It's not his fault that your friends are sorry los-", Walter cut her a look that silenced her.

"Iesha, that's enough. Don't say anything else." He ordered.

"But, Daddy!" She began to whine.

"Iesha, you've said enough. If you say one more word and I rip up the One Direction concert tickets, and you will not go to that concert or anyplace else for the next two weeks." He stated firmly, effectively silencing her. Iesha crossed her arms, expression extremely displeased and pouted. 

Mary sat there watching them, shaking her head in disbelief. Her daughter, her baby girl, was someone she didn't want to know. She should have just left with Trent and Troy.

Before dessert was brought, Iesha seemed pensive. She loved her mother and wished she'd just get back with her Daddy. Daddy still loved her and would take her back. She decided to save face and offered her mother a half-hearted apology, "Momma, I'm sorry I was rude in front of your friends. Can you forgive me?" she asked sweetly.

Mary knew she wasn't sincere. She had no idea how hurtful her actions were, so she didn't reply. She just stared at her, and then she looked at Walter. Her face was a mask of disgust and disbelief. 

"Um, Mary." Walter stated clearing his throat knowing that any hope he had of ever winning her back was futile at best. "Iesha and I are flying to the Bahamas in June for two weeks. Why don't you join us? We can spend time together as a family." He suggested.

They often took mini vacations together, but Mary was involved with someone else and she wasn't willing to risk her new relationship with Trent because of her ex-husband's need to control her life anymore.

So she smiled and politely declined. Walter knew then that she'd moved on. Any hopes he had of her ever taking him back finally died in that moment. 

Walter wanted to hate Trent Blackmon, but he knew he was a stand-up guy. When he learned that Mary was dating him, he had him investigated. Trent was an honest, hardworking man. Walter could see that he really cared for Mary. He suspected that he asked her to leave with him tonight, but she only stayed to spend time with Iesha.

So, he had to make a decision. He realized that if Mary refused vacation time, then she was committed to the other man. "OK, well. I was hoping...He's a good man, very lucky. You deserve to be happy." Walter stated finally accepting the fact that she was done with him and he needed to let her go.

Iesha sat watching the interaction between her parents. Her Mom was weak. Why would she choose a weak poor guy over her dad? Dad had money and could buy her anything she wanted. They could be a real family. But she liked the poor guy and his son better than them. Momma was crazy.

Troy grimaced at the memory of that first meeting. It seemed like all of that just happened yesterday. But it was five years ago. Five years and Troy never forgot a single moment.

Time had passed since that faithful meeting, but the damage had been done. The die had been cast, and nothing could change the fact that one lie almost destroyed Troy's life.

"Son, welcome home. Mary will be pleased as punch to see you." His dad greeted him with a bear hug when he arrived home after completing an internship in England.

Trent looked at his boy. His son was the spitting image of him when he had been twenty-one years old. Deep tanned skin, sandy brown hair, and a stocky build which showed that Troy took care of himself. He had inherited his mother's smoky gray eyes, not only that but her temperament as well, which ultimately led to his outburst four years earlier.

Troy Blackmon was a ruggedly handsome young man. At twenty-two, he had accomplished a lot. He'd finished his advanced degree gone to England and completed an internship. Troy was one of the most brilliant young minds in the country, so Trent was not surprised that he'd been offered a prestigious position at the top firms in Washington. 

He was proud of his son, as was Mary. They were both overjoyed when he called and said he was stopping in for a visit. He actually arrived a few hours early. So he didn't get to see Mary right away, because she'd gone out to pick up the food for dinner. 

When Trent and Mary married, Troy was ecstatic for them. Troy adored Mary as much as his father did, and he was genuinely happy for his dad. The problem was Mary's daughter, Iesha, he hated that girl. 

After meeting her for the first time with her father, Troy really didn't want to have anything to do with the girl. Unfortunately for him, the summer after their parents married, things went south for him very quickly. Walter called and asked Mary and Trent to take her for a month, and that summer month was the beginning of a rip that lasted for years in his family.

Walter, Iesha's father, was a wealthy business man who spoiled her. She felt as if she could treat people anyway she chose since she was rich. Walter was at a loss. He had to travel and didn't want Iesha with him. He believed that a month working on the ranch would do her some good. She needed to learn some humility and that real people had to work. Iesha had never visited a ranch and at first she was excited. However once she realized she had to take care of herself and there were no servants, her tune changed quickly. She was horrid. She was loud, rude, disrespectful, and felt entitled. Every statement ended with, "My daddy will hear about this."

One afternoon she was blatantly rude to Mary. In her rant she accused her of all types of heinous crimes. Mary, who was trying to reason with her out of control teen aged daughter, was near tears. That's when Troy stepped in.

Troy didn't like Iesha. In his eyes, she was a mean, hateful, selfish brat. It didn't matter to him that she had the prettiest brown eyes he'd ever stared into. The smoothest creamy brown skin, that smelled like vanilla lavendar when she past him. He ignored the fact that she was the prettiest girl he'd ever seen.

She was a holy terror. She had no right to speak to Mary that way and he would not stand there and let her get away with it. When Iesha stormed from the kitchen, Troy followed her fuming.

"Stop being a bitch, Iesha." Troy snarled at her.

"You can't talk to me like that." Iesha responded. "I'm telling Daddy."

"You mean the selfish son of a bitch that lets you think you can treat people like this. Tell him, I don't give a fuck." Troy vented angrily glaring at the young girl who stood defiantly before him.

"For some reason, Mary and my Dad care about you. Why? I don't know. But they do. So they won't tell you the truth. You're a spoiled brat and a bitch. And I, for one, will not stand here and let you get away with it. If you ever talk to Mary like that again. You deal with me. Do you hear me Iesha? Don't talk like that to her again." Troy then stormed off.

Iesha fumed after Troy left. How dare he talk to me like that? No one speaks to me in that way. He thinks he's all high and mighty because his daddy owns this ranch. We'll see. Wait until I talk to my daddy.. Iesha knew what to do to get him back. Her friends had done this several times to get others in trouble, so she filled a small sock with rocks.

As soon as she had done sufficient damage to her face, she called her daddy on Skype so he could see how she'd been abused. When Walter saw the bruises on his angel's face, he went ballistic. He demanded to know what happened. Iesha, being a clever actress, sobbed as she lied and told her daddy how Troy yelled at her and then hit her for no real reason.

Walter was furious.  How dare that boy lay hands on my daughter? Oh, When I get my hands on him, I'm going to beat him senseless. But in the back of his mind, he knew something wasn't quite right. He'd met Troy and he didn't seem like the type of guy that would strike a woman. But his angel said he hit her, and he saw the bruises on her face.


Not My Sister



Walter called Mary fuming. Trent walked in as Mary was sobbing into the phone trying to explain that he had to be mistaken. He could hear Walter yelling at her from across the room. He took the phone from her and informed Walter that he was never to speak to his wife in that manner again. Before he finished defending his wife, Walter leveled his accusations against Troy. Trent knew instantly that Iesha lied and told Walter so, but he had to talk to Troy just in case.

Of course that night Walter sent a car to remove his daughter from the ghastly place, immediately. He then informed Mary that, because of the treatment of his angel, she'd never visit her in her home again.

"Oh, and tell that stepson of yours he's going to jail. I have the best attorneys in the country and he won't see the light of day for years.

Trent spoke with Troy and demanded to know what happened between him and Iesha. "Troy, did you hit that girl? Her bastard of a father is pressing charges. She claims you hit her."

"Daddy, I didn't touch her. She's a lying, conniving witch." Troy adamantly stated, furious and wanting to strangle her.

Iesha finally calmed down and talked to her daddy. She cleverly disguised her voice enough to convince him that the events that happened were just a horrible misunderstanding. Troy didn't mean to hit her, they were having an argument and he turned to walk out and accidentally struck her on the cheek. He wouldn't apologize and that made her angry. She really wanted to finish her month at the ranch, but felt that Troy owed her an apology. All would be forgiven if he just apologized. 

He had no choice, if he refused to apologize and leave the ranch, her dad was pressing charges and petitioning to have Mary's visitation rights revoked. So eighteen year old Troy was forced to move out of his home for the rest of the summer and Iesha moved in. 

Trent's hands were tied. Torn between knowing his son was innocent and Mary losing what few chances she could see her daughter, he called his brother, Trevor, in Wyoming. Trent drove his son to his brother, Trevor's ranch. They talked, but Trent knew his boy. That girl and her deceit had just ripped them apart and he didn't know if they'd ever be the same.

When Trent and Troy left, Iesha returned to the ranch and received a chilly reception from her mother. Mary refused to even look at her. She lied on Troy and destroyed his life. That wasn't right. 

"Momma, I'm so happy to stay here the rest of the summer." Iesha boasted.

Mary looked at her and said, "You have no idea of the damage you caused here. You can't treat people like this Iesha; it's wrong." 

Iesha opened her mouth to protest but Mary shut her down. "Stop it. Stop it right now. I won't put up with your attitude and abuse anymore. You lied on that boy Iesha and forced him to have to leave his home. I don't know what makes you think this is alright. But for the rest of this summer, you will learn how to be a decent person. If you don't like it, then call your Daddy right now and leave. Because honestly, girl, I don't want to be around you right now." Then Mary walked away, leaving her stunned daughter standing alone in the kitchen. 

Trent knew she lied on his son, so did Mary but without proof there was nothing they could do. They both eyed the manipulative teenager warily. So for the rest of the summer, Trent let Mary deal with her daughter and he stayed away from the girl.

Summer ended and Iesha moved back to Houston with her daddy. She was excited to be returning to her private prep school and did not give a second thought to the evil stunt she pulled this past summer. Not even wary of the destruction she'd caused within the family.

Walter watched her closely. She seemed to mellow after visiting the ranch. She came home and was nicer. It seemed spending time with her mother helped her a great deal. She wasn't snapping as quickly on people and was even pleasant to be around.

A few months later in the Spring, Iesha had reverted back to her same nasty attitude, so she and her father went to Paris. It was an early birthday present for her. Iesha invited several of her closest friends. All of the girls were rude and nasty to the staff, and caused Walter a great deal of embarrassment. That night, he wanted to have dinner with Iesha so they could talk. 

"Pumpkin Patch, I want you to join me for dinner tonight?" Walter Michaels told his young daughter. 

"Daddy, my friends are here. I can't abandon them. That's not right." She whined

Walter smiled recognizing a deflection for what it was, "Iesha, I'm sure your friends can find something to do without you for a couple of hours."

Iesha knew he wanted to talk to her, so she replied with a huff, "Fine, we'll go to dinner."

Lately, Iesha had been doing some things he didn't approve of. He wanted to spend more time with her to talk. However, because of his business dealings, Iesha pretty much did whatever she wanted. He didn't like it, but he knew that he caused this. In his youth, he allowed his arrogance to override his common sense. 

When Mary, his wife of three years refused to stay with him, he took everything from her including their one year old daughter. He wanted to break her. He wanted her to come crawling back to him but she didn't. He used everything he could against her. He only let her see their daughter when it was convenient to him. And that is where he realized he was wrong. Mary was a good mother. Iesha loved her mother, but because of the choices he made, his little girl had grown into a manipulative and devious young lady. 

Last summer, he thought time at her step father's ranch would help her gain perspective, but she called him with bruises saying she'd been attacked. 

Then a week ago, he stood outside her bedroom and listened as she told her friend how to set her stepfather up for abuse. She had done the same to her step brother and no one was the wiser. He knew then that he needed help. So Walter Michaels, CEO and owner of the biggest clothing conglomerate in North America, recognized that he'd fucked up big time. 

It was then that he called Mary and asked to speak with Trent. He offered the other man a heartfelt apology and admitted his wrongdoing. He even asked for information to contact Troy so he could apologize to him also. However, Troy was gone back to university, and Walter did not get an opportunity to speak with him. He hung up the phone knowing that his little angel lied on that boy. 

After apologizing to Trent, Mary,and Troy, Walter asked for forgiveness. Then he told them that he was making permanent changes to the custody arrangements. It was apparent that his daughter needed to spend time with her mother. He prayed it wasn't too late to help her grow into a respectable person.

He'd already changed his will giving Mary complete custody of Iesha if anything happened to him. He left directions that his companies be liquidated and all funds placed into two different trust: one for the care of his daughter and the other a financial trust that Iesha would inherit on her twenty-fifth birthday. 

He also offered to cover Troy's tuition and any other expenses concerning his education. He was aware of the situation concerning him, and felt this was one way he could help. 

He admitted to being manipulated by her, and allowing her to do whatever she wanted. However, he was stepping up and taking charge of the situation, in hopes of saving his wayward child.

A few more months passed and Iesha's behavior was becoming unbearable, for Walter. 

Walter decided he and his daughter needed some time together to talk so, he arranged a mini vacation in Aspen. Iesha was so excited that she bragged for days to her friends. She even invited two of them to come with her. Walter refused to let them and she was furious with her father. How did he expect her to have any fun? When they got to the resort, Iesha refused to spend any time with him. Walter was so distracted thinking about his daughter that he tripped and fell. 

When her father didn't return to their cabin that night, Iesha was worried. The next morning she was frantic. She called the manager at the resort. She sat with him as he sent security to look for her father. Within hours the police was called, as was social services, who through information Iesha provided contacted Mary and Trent.

Mary knew instantly something horrible had happened. Within the hour, she called Walter's attorney immediately and he arranged transport for her and Trent to travel to Aspen. Once they arrived, Walter's lawyers had set up accounts for them to use. Any expenses they incurred were covered.

Iesha had no idea what was going on. Social services had appointed a social worker to sit with her until her mother arrived. When Mary and Trent entered the hotel lobby, she was glad to see them and went to her mother immediately seeking comfort and security. Her dad was missing and no one would tell her anything. Five days later, his body was removed from the base of the mountain. It was Mary that told her of her father's demise.

It was Mary and Trent that held on to the young woman as her world fell apart. Soon they left Aspen and arranged a memorial for Walter Michaels. Troy, out of sheer respect for his parents, came home for the service. He did not speak to Iesha, because even though she'd lost her father and his heart broke for her, he wanted nothing to do with her at this time.

As soon as the service ended and the repast was over, the saddened and broken family returned to the ranch. Troy stayed one night, and then returned to school the next day. The night of the memorial service was hard for Troy, because even though he couldn't stand his stepsister, he would not wish this fate on even his worst enemy. He knew she was hurting, because he lost his Mom to cancer and her death ripped his world apart. He could imagine how she felt. At least she had her Mom, so she should be alright.

Shaking his head to stop the onslaught of emotions, Troy tried to focus on the boxing match he was trying to watch on ESPN. Iesha entered the room quietly, desiring to speak with him. She knew she was wrong and wanted him to realize that. She knew that her actions were part of the reason her Dad took her to Aspen. His death was really her fault. She had to make amends, and the first had to be to Troy. Taking a deep nervous breath, Iesha spoke to her stepbrother.

"Troy," Iesha whispered. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have lied-"

"Stop, Iesha." Troy interrupted. "Don't. You're not sorry. I'm sorry you lost your Dad, but let's be real. You don't like me and it's best we stay away from each other." Then Troy went to his room and locked the door, leaving Iesha sitting in the living room.

Iesha could understand why he felt that way. She realized she could have ruined his life with her silly prank, and she truly regretted it. But he wouldn't listen and would not accept her apology. She had to get him to forgive her one day. Because now, him, Trent, and her Mom were all she had left.

She returned to her room, downhearted and broken. She had no idea of how to earn his forgiveness. She decided to try again the next day. The next morning, Iesha leaped from her bed a rushed downstairs, determined to make amends with her stepbrother. She had to find a way to earn his forgiveness. Besides, he had to forgive her. He had no choice. She was supposed to be his sister after all.

Iesha walked into the kitchen and found her mother drinking a cup of coffee. Trent and Troy were nowhere in sight. 

"Momma, where's Trent and Troy?" Iesha asked as she fixed her breakfast. 

"Trent gave Troy a ride to the airport." Mary answered as she turned to rinse her cup. "He wanted to get back to school."

"He left, but he just got here yesterday." Iesha exclaimed. "I was hoping..."

She inhaled. "Momma, I was wrong and I wanted to try and fix it. He'll never forgive me."

She then moved into Mary's arms and Mary rubbed her back to sooth her.

"Iesha, that lie you told, could have sent him to jail. Don't you understand? He has every right to be angry." Mary exhaled. "You can't worry about him right now. You've got to decide what kind of young woman you want to be-"

"Momma, I'm rich. I don't have to worry about anything. As a matter of fact we can hire people to work for us here-" Iesha started to say.

"Stop, Iesha. Your father is gone, and I'm sorry, but I won't allow this to continue."" Mary asserted herself.

Angrily Iesha turned on her mother, "I'll call daddy's lawyers, and tell them to find me someplace else to live. I don't have to live like this." She fumed.

Mary exhaled and asked her, "And go where little girl. Name two people that will even tolerate you."

In a huff, Iesha stormed from the room. She called her daddy's lawyer. The lawyer explained to her in no uncertain terms the arrangements her father had provided for her. She wanted to know if they had funds to keep her in the comforts of her previous lifestyle. 

The lawyer explained for the final time that her mother, was now in charge of her and there would be no more interference from them on her behalf.

The next shock was being enrolled in public school. Iesha found herself being targeted by bullies and having no friends. She even tried to reconnect with her old friends, but they refused to even talk to her. So for two years, Iesha was completely alone. 

She had chores on the farm and at first she resented them. But overtime, she became resigned to her fate. Trent took time with her and helped her acclimate to life on a working ranch. She and Trent formed a true friendship. Over the years, she loved the close relationship she'd developed with her mother.

One day, when school was out for a holiday, the phone rang. Iesha answered. It was Troy. 

"Hello, Blackmon residence." Iesha spoke.

"Hello. Can I speak to Trent or Mary Blackmon please?" Troy answered not realizing he was speaking to his stepsister.

"Troy, it's me Iesha" she blurted. Dead silence was all she heard from the other end.

"Oh, hello Iesha. Is Mary or dad home?" he asked politely.

She heard the cold as ice tone in his voice, and it hurt her a bit. Why she didn't know. He made sure when he walked away two years ago, she knew how he felt.

"Um, hold on." She said. "Mom, phone." She called out. Then to Troy she said, "Troy, I'm glad you called. I hope we can at least be friends-"

Troy stopped her, "Save it, Iesha. Tell Dad to call me back."

"Wait, sorry. Mom's coming. Don't hang up, alright." She pleaded.

Then Mary walked in and picked up. The smile on her face as she talked with Troy was so genuine and pure. She congratulated him and promised him that Trent would call as soon as he came in from working.

"What is it Momma? What's going on with Troy?" Iesha asked excitedly. 

Mary smiled. "He's engaged. He wants us to come to California to meet her."

Iesha's heart deflated. She didn't know why. Troy didn't like her and she couldn't blame him. After the way she'd treated him, it was understandable. He'd made that clear with the extremes he'd taken to avoid her at all cost. He almost hung up when she answered the phone. Why would him being engaged affect her so profoundly?

That night Trent called and invited Troy to bring his fiancé home. Of course he refused citing their class schedule and jobs. So Mary, Trent, and Iesha took a week off to visit them in California.

Troy's fiancé was a young lady named Amy. She was truly lovely. Mary and Trent adored her and were already making plans for the grand babies. Iesha, although she was polite, didn't like her. She just didn't like her with Troy for some reason.

Troy and his roommate made arrangements for his family to stay with them for the week. His roommate stayed with his girlfriend, giving Iesha his room, and Troy gave his parents his room.

On their second night in town, Troy and Iesha exchanged words again. Troy was lying on the sofa when Iesha walked in. Her beauty always stunned him. How could a girl that was so lovely be evil personified?

"Troy, can we talk?" she asked tentatively. 

"Iesha, no. Please get your water and go to your room." Troy replied unperturbed.

Not to be one that's easily deterred, Iesha walked over and plopped down next to him.

She had just turned eighteen and was wearing the cutest pajamas. Troy's body reacted to her against his wishes. Her scent was enticing to him and he had to remind himself that she was the equivalent of a kid sister. The main word being, sister. Lilacs and lavender clung to her skin. She wasn't wearing a bra and the gentle swell of her breast was barley contained it the tight chemise that she'd adorned. The slim bottoms clung to her giving him an ample view of her treasures that were hidden beneath.

She was completely unaware of the maelstrom of emotions she was causing in her step brother. 

"Troy, I know you hate me. I was horrible to you and then I told that lie. All I can say is I'm sorry and hope you can forgive me one day." Iesha said solemnly.

Troy forgot to breath. All of his blood had relocated and centered itself at one part of his body. He was as hard as steel, and this girl had no clue how she affected him. He didn't hear a word she said. Then she moved to hug him. She pressed her body into his as he struggled to control his baser instinct and held his deep moans inside.. 

She embraced him and in that moment she became aware of his hardness pressed between them. "Troy," she whispered as she started to move away. He started to pull her closer but, he remembered Amy and pushed Iesha away.

"I'm sorry Iesha. I need to be alone." Troy apologized immediately. "Please, go to your room. I can't talk to you right now."

"Troy, I ..." Iesha whispered. With him, her body came alive. She felt sensations she'd never experienced before. For the first time, she saw Troy as a sexy man that she wanted.

The rest of the visit was spent in a companionable silence. Iesha wanted to hate Amy, but she was really nice and seemed to care about Troy. They even had dinner with her family, and they loved Troy too. But after their momentary interlude, Iesha realized that Amy wasn't the only woman that wanted him.

However, he was her brother, right. The thoughts she kept having should never have happened. She needed to forget him and find a boy her own age to date. He had.

The last night of the visit to California was a hard one for Iesha. Her budding attraction to her step brother had now become an obsession for her. Every night, she'd try to sneak into the living room for alone time with him. He'd always call Amy.

However, tonight was their last night in town and Mom and Trent were going out to dinner with Amy's parents. Amy came over to visit with Troy and Iesha. Troy had actually told her about the stunt she pulled and how forgiving her was hard. Amy figured they needed to talk and see if he could really forgive her. He couldn't.

A small argument ensued over his pigheadedness, and Amy left. She went out with her friends leaving Troy and Iesha alone. Iesha felt despondent. But she understood.

Soon Troy knocked on her door. He felt he needed to try and explain. She told him she'd meet him in the living room. His cock was rock hard. She was all he could think about. The swell of her breast against his chest, the softness of her lips, and how warm and inviting she felt in his arms, drove him to the brink of insanity.

He knew that even though he hated to admit it he was attracted to his stepsister. She was a beautiful girl, but she was strictly off limits. Besides he was engaged. Amy was the best thing to happen to him.

A few months later, Troy and Amy were struggling to find ways to spend time together. He was always working and distracted. Amy accused him of not really loving her. He really did love Amy, but couldn't seem to keep thoughts of his sexy step-sister out of his head. Amy demanded to know what was distracting him, and he couldn't tell her. An argument ensued and the engagement was over. Troy called home and told Mary what happened and then informed her that he'd be moving to England to complete an internship. So over the next two years Troy was out of the country.




Not My Sister



Finally, he had returned home. Everyone was elated. He called each holiday, but for four years never came home until now. 

Iesha saw when he drove up. Her heart raced. She wondered.  Has enough time passed? Will he finally forgive me?

She stood at the top of the stairs and heard Trent greet him. Steeling her resolve, Iesha walked in to speak to her step brother. As soon as her eyes landed on him, she forgot to breathe. Two years, she hadn't seen him in two years and he took her breath away.

He was astonishing. "Troy, welcome home." Iesha greeted her stepbrother meekly.

Troy heard her voice and swallowed. He looked at her and marveled at her beauty. How could one so beautiful be such a conniving evil person. Then realizing years had passed, Troy thought to himself,  Maybe she's changed a little.

She walked over to him and embraced him lightly as Troy stiffly returned the hug. As they embraced, each felt electrified by the simple touch. Both inhaled quickly as their bodies became transfixed with the desire to know the other more intimately.

Trent was happy. It seemed that the kids might be able to get along. Then he saw how they looked at each other. Trent knew how his son felt, because he felt the same for Mary. However, they were brother and sister, well step brother and step sister in this case.

"Um um" Trent cleared his throat to get their attention, but the two just stared wide-eyed at each other. 

"Um, Iesha sweetie, go call your mom for me, and tell her Troy is home. Troy, walk with me." Trent ordered.

At first Troy didn't moved. He stood stock still as he watched Iesha walk away from them. It took all of his strength to command his body to stay calm, and not react to her. Trent waited and called his name once more. "Troy."

"Son, what happened back there? You know it's not right and well; she's your sister for Christ sakes." Trent explained to his son.

Troy stopped and stared across the plain. "Dad, I'm twenty-two years old. I have a lucrative position in one of the most prestigious firms in Washington. I left home four years ago and only came home once for her dad's funeral. She wasn't my sister then, and Dad, She's not my sister now." Troy exhaled.

"I can be attracted to woman and not act on it. Your step daughter's precious virtue is safe." Looking back at his Dad he concluded. "She is beautiful, but a leopard can never change her spots."

Trent, in Iesha's defense spoke. "That girl has grown up son. She's not the spoiled brat that came the first time years ago. She's a good person. You should spend some time with her while you're here. Get to know her better."

Troy looked at his dad and shook his head. "You want me to spend time with her. Dad, I don't think that's a good idea. I need to stay as far away from her as I can."

Trent troubled by his son's declaration, decided to table it and discuss it with Mary later that night.

"Well, son. We're glad you came home." Trent concluded

The two men continued walking and reminisced about the adventures they'd shared on the ranch over the years. 

When they made it back to the house, Mary had returned. She launched herself into her stepson's arms covering him with kisses. Troy laughed as he embraced his step mom. "Mary, you'd better cool it with the kisses. Dad will get jealous and won't let you hug me anymore" Hearing Troy's statement, Trent laughed and hugged his son as well. 

Iesha walked in and Troy's enthusiasm dampened. He smiled at her and spoke, but his smile wasn't sincere. Iesha was bothered by this but didn't quite know why.

"Momma, do you need help with dinner?" Iesha asked, not wanting to appear put out.

"Yes, Iesha, thanks. You two go sit. We'll have dinner ready in a minute." Mary ordered but Troy started to protest. 

"Mary, I can help. You know I can cook." he stated.

Mary cut him off. "No, you go sit and talk with your Daddy. The ladies of the house will serve dinner." She ordered.

Iesha was already making the salad when Mary entered the kitchen. Noticing her defeated expression, Mary asked what was wrong.

"He hates me Momma." Iesha whispered, her heart breaking at the thought of the beautiful man in the next room despising her.

"Listen, he's your brother, and siblings fight all the time. You two will talk and make up eventually." Mary explained to her daughter.

Iesha looked at her mother, "Momma, this wasn't a simple fight. I caused him his family. He might never forgive me for that, but that's not the worse part. You see, Momma, I don't see him as my brother."

Then she looked away. It took a moment for what she said to register, but when it did Mary stopped moving.

"Iesha, what are you trying to tell me girl?" Mary asked. "What do you see him as then?"

"Momma, you married his daddy, so you know." Iesha spoke softly. "Even when I lied on him, I never saw him as my brother."

Mary's brows raised in surprise first and then alarm. "What do you mean? Of course he's your brother." 

Iesha gave a soft laugh, "No momma, he's not. You know this as well as I do." 

Mary cleared her throat. "I'm married to his father Iesha and that makes him your brother." Her mother stated, her tone calm.

"Maybe in your eyes, but not in mine." Iesha whispered.

"Iesha!" Her mother's whisper came out harsh, not wanting Trent and Troy to overhear their discussion from in the living room. "He's your brother and that's that. Both of you are a part of this family, so there will be no frolicking with one another. It's just wrong."

Iesha sighed, stifled a small laugh and whispered, "Wrong? You have nothing to worry about momma. I don't think he will ever speak to me, let alone anything else."

Mary looked her daughter in the eyes, and after a few minutes, went back to pulling dishes from the cabinet, satisfied that her daughter was speaking the truth. She knew that Troy was deeply upset over what had happened years ago, so much so that he may not even realize that Iesha was attracted to him.

"Trent, Troy, come eat." Mary called out. Trent and Troy joined the two women at the dinner table. Troy shared his adventures in London and the entire group was captivated by his tales.

Iesha could not take her eyes off of the young man before her. If she thought he was astonishing when he first arrived home, she had to now admit he'd grown beyond that brief description.

"Well, you know son. Iesha is finishing classes at Rust College majoring in business. She's actually finishing her degree early." Trent beamed proudly. Iesha wasn't sure what she wanted to do so she asked Trent for advice. He listened and then helped her chose her major. In a few years she'd receive her inheritance, so money was the least of her worries.

But she wanted to do something productive, not just being a spoiled little rich girl. One thing the last few years had taught her, was that people mattered more than anything else.

"That's nice." Troy replied to his Dad. Not even glancing her way. He felt her watching him. He knew she wanted him to acknowledge her, but he refused to. She caused him his family, even though she was a kid. To her it was just a prank, but he was forced to leave his home. Honestly, a home he did not feel comfortable in with her being present.

Iesha stood and excused herself from the dinner table. It hurt. For some reason, being shut out by him hurt.

Troy knew why she left and felt like a complete heel. "Excuse me Dad, Mary. Let me try and talk to her." He explained as he followed her to her room upstairs.

Troy stood outside her door and listened to her quiet sobs. He felt horrid. Hmm, never thought I'd see this day. He mused to himself.

Knocking lightly, he called out "Iesha, can I come in for a minute?"

Sniffling, she replied, "Come in."

Troy entered her room, watching her dry her tear stained cheeks. She sat on her bed staring at him. At first he just stood there and said nothing. Then he spoke.

"It's taken me four years to actually come home Iesha. I know you were a kid when you lied and thought it was no big deal, but you destroyed us. You tore our family apart." Troy stated.

Iesha inhaled. "You don't think I know that now. I was being a bitch like you said and Troy I'm sorry. I know sorry doesn't fix it, but it's all I've got."

"I can't change the past, but I want you to know I'm not the spoil little brat from years before. I've changed and I'd like for you to get to know the real me." She whispered.

"The real you, really Iesha. If it were that simple..." Troy whispered to himself.

Iesha turned to leave the room. Troy had turned his back to her. As she walked past by him, from the corner of his eye he saw tears streaming down her cheeks and his heart sank. Even though she had hurt him with her lies, he had a soft spot in his heart for her.



After losing her father and her so called friends, she was now alone for the first time in her life. Reaching out taking her arm he pulled her to him wrapping both arms around her, he held her close to him. Tears rolled down her cheeks, like a fast flowing stream, he could feel her body go weak like a rag doll. Her body was heaving as she now was openly crying, pleading with Troy between the sobbing to forgive her for lying and having him go away all those years before.



It was then Troy kissed her neck as he held her so very close, very tightly. Then kiss her on the cheek as Iesha turned her face up towards him and their lips met. At first it was just a light kiss on her lips, but lead to a hard, more passionate kiss which lasted a few minutes. That was enough time for the both of them to feel, experience a strong desire, which drove them to seek even more.



They were now not stepbrother and step sister, but had crossed the line into a deep longing for one another. It was as if they had just found one another.



Troy was aroused as he could feel Iesha pressing her body into his. Their kisses were even stronger, more desperate, with both kissing each other as Troy's hand slipped and grasped Iesha's tight ass, pulling her in to him. She could feel his hard manhood now pressing between her thighs through the thin dress she was wearing. The more they kissed; the more both of them wanted it to go on never to stop. 



It was only the sound of footsteps made them break apart. Iesha, all flushed and her cheeks swollen from her crying, she rushed from the room. Troy stood frozen, not sure what to do, how to feel, where to go.



Soon, Mary knocked on the door. "Iesha, Troy, are you both alright. Come back down to dinner.' She demanded softly, as she gently opened the door and saw her stepson looking stoically out of a window.



"We'll be down in a minute Mary. Iesha went to the restroom." Troy explained.



Mary looked at her stepson. She knew he was struggling with his dislike of her daughter. But she was worried about Iesha. Iesha had developed feelings for him. If hatred and disdain was all he felt for Iesha, Mary was not sure if her daughter could handle that.



"Troy, I..." Mary paused. 



"Mary, I'll try not to hurt her and will try to forgive her, but it won't happen overnight." Troy explained.



Mary exhaled. "Son, she was a child."



"I know that, but I was a child too." Troy explained. 



Mary sighed, because honestly, she truly understood how he felt.



Troy walked over to Iesha's bedroom window and looked out across the field. Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes for a moment as mental images of the real her flashed though his mind. 

He pictured her in the same bed she was sitting on naked beneath him, and he caressed her breast, suckling on her nipples while his hand gently explored the hotbox between her thighs. How would the "real Iesha" respond? Would she melt for him? Allow him to taste her nectar; permit him to sample her sweet flesh? Would she be quiet keeping their lust secret, or a loud vocal lover alerting everyone nearby of what was happening between them? Exhaling, and willing his throbbing erection to subside. Iesha came back into her room. Troy looked at her and spoke, "Iesha, I'm only visiting for two weeks. For the sake of Mary and Dad, let's try and get along."

Iesha paused.

"OK, Mom and Dad deserve to be happy. I never want to cause them another moment's grief." She replied. When she called his father Dad, something stirred inside him.

He turned and their eyes met. They were drawn to each other like moth to a flame and Iesha found herself moving to stand directly in front of him. He was tall, but only by a few inches. All she had to do was tiptoe and she could taste his soft lips.

Her body hummed, breathing became heavy, and heat spread through her. Troy froze a well wondering if her lips would feel as soft as they looked. Then out of reflex, he touched her cheek. Iesha loved the feel of his hand touching her skin closed her eyes and leaned into his caress.

Troy had to stop. He needed to leave her room now or a line would be crossed. His Dad said she was his sister. He was supposed to see her as a sister, nothing more. But she turned her head slightly and kissed his palm.

That was all it took. He had to taste her. This instance, just taste the fruit that was forbidden once more.

Soon their lips met in a fight for dominance as each gave in to the desire to taste the other.

Slowly Iesha's arms slid around his neck as he held her tightly by the waist and they simply tasted each other's lips. Instinct took over and he ground his rock hard cock into her showing her undeniable proof of his arousal. Iesha moaned as her pussy flooded her panties. She wanted this man. She'd never been this hot and ready this fast for anyone.

She wrapped her leg around him and rubbed her hot crotch against his burgeoning member. He could feel the heat from her through her thin panties and it made him even harder. He soon realized that she wanted him just as much.

So heavenly was their kiss that it took a moment to register that Mary and Trent were calling for them to come back down. Slowly and hesitantly, they pulled apart. 

"Baby," he whispered, "We can't. It'll crush them. We can't."

Iesha whimpered. Her pussy was burning for one man and he was saying they couldn't.

She kissed him again. "Troy, why?" she asked.

Then Troy whispered, "I don't care what Mary and Dad say." he caressed her cheek once more, "You are not my sister."

Iesha sighed and agreed, "You are definitely not my brother." Then they rejoined their parents at the kitchen table.

They both took a moment to allow their bodies to cool down before returning to the kitchen.

"Iesha, Troy, are you two alright?" Mary asked concerned as they reentered the kitchen.

Iesha looked flushed, while Troy looked sheepish. Neither one looked their parent's in the face.

"Um, Mary we're fine." Troy answered. "Just some old ghost that need to be exorcised."

They sat down and finished dinner, and the men volunteered to do the dishes. Mary wanted to speak with Iesha about the conversation they had earlier when the doorbell rang.

Mary answered the door and it was Iesha's friend Mark.

"Hello Mark¸ come in." Mary greeted the young man at the door. Trent, Troy and Iesha came into the front room.

"You don't know my son, Troy. Mark, this is Troy, and Troy meet Mark." Mary introduced the two men. "Mark is Iesha's-" Iesha interjected herself.

"Friend, he's a friend. Um, Troy." She quickly explained.

"Hey man, nice to meet you." Troy greeted Iesha's friend.

"Likewise," Mark responded.

Soon Troy, Mary, and Trent left out to give Iesha and Mark some privacy. However, Troy stood and watched them through an open door. Something didn't feel right.

"Esh, you ready?" Mark asked.

"Ready, for what?" Iesha queried clearly confused. She didn't have plans tonight because she was spending the night with her family. Mark knew this.

"I want you to come and do that thing with me, you know?" Mark uttered. Grabbing her arm.

Iesha pulled away. He moved to grab her again when Troy's voice interrupted him. "Touch her again, and whatever it is you have to do, won't get done by you."

"Hey, man this is between me and Iesha. It's not your business." Mark asserted.

"Iesha, do you want to go anywhere with this guy?" Troy asked. It didn't matter if she said yes, because she wasn't going anyway.

"No, and Mark was just leaving. Right Mark." She stated firmly.

"Esh, come on girl. You know what it's..." backing away, Mark added, "Alright, I get it. Big brother is back and he's gotta look out for little sister. It's cool man, but Esh and I aren't even down like that. We're just friends, man."

Trent walked back in. The atmosphere was tense. "What's going on?" he asked.

"Nothing dad," Troy explained, "Mark forgot that Iesha had plans tonight, right Mark?"

"Yea, Mr. Blackmon. I was just leaving. Look Troy, it was nice meeting you. Maybe we can hang out sometimes." Mark said as Troy closed the door in his face.

Trent looked at the young people standing before him and he knew. He knew there would be no way of keeping them apart. 

"Son, come out with your old man for a drink. We need to catch up." Trent suggested, hoping that if he talked to his son, maybe he could keep this from happening.

"You guys go on." Iesha readily agreed. "I'll see if Momma wants to watch a movie with me." She suggested as she quickly left the room.

Trent looked at his son and saw how intently he watched that girl walk away. He understood. She was beautiful and deep down inside, she was kindhearted and giving much like her mother.

The two men left ad arrived at a local watering spot. "Troy," Trent didn't really know where to begin. "She is not your sister. I know that, but you are here for a visit. She has gone through a lot son, and I don't want that girl hurt."

Troy laughed, "Wait a minute Dad. You're warning me off. Dad, I'm your son, shouldn't you be trying to protect me instead?" 

Trent chuckled. "Right, you're right. But Iesha is vulnerable Troy. She's always had a crush on you. You might not know this, but you can break her. You can hurt her in ways that are unfathomable. When you were about to marry Amy, she was so depressed. We didn't know why until you told us the wedding was off. She lit up. Then you left the country." 

Trent exhaled and continued. "She stopped living, Troy. The only person she hung around with was Mark. She was never vibrant again, until you called to say you were coming home."

"Dad, I don't know-" Trent stopped him.

"That girl is half-way in love with you son, if she hasn't fallen completely. You are here for two weeks. Don't string her along, because honestly she won't be able to handle that." Trent concluded.

Iesha is half in love with me. He has got to be mistaken, Troy thought as he nursed the cold beer he was drinking.

Meanwhile, Mary and Iesha were about to watch Alex Cross when Mary stopped to ask her daughter something.

"Iesha, what happened with Mark earlier?" she asked.

Iesha had been friends with Mark for the past year. It was sad to say he was her only friend. But he was and tonight, something went horribly wrong. Troy practically threw the young man out of the door.

"Nothing, Momma. He forgot we weren't hanging out tonight that's all. I'll talk to him tomorrow." She assured her mother.

Mary nodded. "Alright then."

"Momma, I'm gonna make popcorn. Will you start the movie?" Iesha asked moving to the kitchen.

"Iesha wait. I've got to say this. I know that Troy is not really your brother, but this is a small town and if you two... Well, it might cause people to talk." Mary tried to explain.

Iesha closed her eyes. She didn't really want to talk about this right now. "Momma, please." Iesha whispered.

"Iesha sit. I know you may not want to hear this, but I need you to at least listen." Mary stated.




Not My Sister



Iesha sat and wondered how she could get Mary to understand.

"Momma, he isn't my brother. He is the most amazing man I've ever known. I've waited Momma for two years. Ever since we went to California, I've wanted him. When he broke up with Amy I was so happy, but when he left the country, a part of me died." Iesha looked her mother in the eye and asked, "Could you, would you give up Trent?"

Mary paused, "Baby, it's not the same thing. Trent is my husband. You don't really know him, and he's leaving in two weeks. Iesha, I don't want you to get hurt."

"Momma, I don't know what to say." Iesha answered. "Besides, we need to talk through our past first. I need him to forgive me.

Not knowing what to say, Mary stood and gathered her daughter in a big hug. She held Iesha in her arms and stroked her back. Briefly recalling all of the pains her daughter had gone through. She didn't know if Iesha could handle it if Troy didn't return her affections. But she'd be there for her no matter what.

"Baby, go get the popcorn, and let's enjoy this movie." Mary told her and the two women spent the evening watching Alex Cross and snacking on popcorn.

A couple of hours later, Trent and Troy came home. Trent and Mary went to bed leaving Troy and Iesha alone to talk. 

Once, they retired Mary and Trent talked. 

"Um, Baby" Trent addressed his wife as he gently held her close in bed. "My son has a thing for your daughter. How do you feel about that?"

Mary chuckled, "Ha ha, Well, he is not alone there. It seems my daughter is harboring feelings for your son, as well."

"He might be attracted to her, but Trent he can't forget or forgive what she did." Mary added. 

"Hmmm, baby. He's already forgiven her. He's using it as a smokescreen to hide from what he's feelings." Trent explained.

"Mary, should we interfere? I mean, they are stepbrother and sister, right?" Trent asked his wife as she snuggled deep into his embrace.

"I don't know Trent." Mary answered. "Honestly, if we forbid it, they'll want it more. Besides, they are pretty smart kids and Troy will move to Washington in two weeks. I say let them figure it out. But be there to support them when they need it."

Trent chuckled, "If my boy has any sense, he'll find a way to take her with him. After all, she is her mother's daughter, which makes her damn near perfect."

"You old flirt." Mary sighed smiling. "I love you. Now go to sleep."

Iesha walked into the front room where Troy was reading. 

"Hey, what are you reading?" Iesha asked Troy as she walked up behind him. 

"Nothing, I'm just reading a Sidney Sheldon novel. What are you doing up?" he asked.

Iesha sat beside him and exhaled. "Mom and I talked. She... Never mind." She stopped.

Troy chuckled, "Let me guess. The two of us getting involved is not a good idea. You need to be careful, right?"

Iesha was stunned. How did he know? "Dad and I had a similar conversation. It ended with me being warned to stay away."

"Right, maybe we should listen-" Troy covered her lips with his. That was all she needed as she melted under the scorching heat of his kiss. Troy lay back and pulled Iesha on top of his body as Iesha straddled his lap. Soon her burning core contacted the stiff member hos his body and she groaned.

Her hips of their own violation rotated against his body as the crotch of her panties, Troy could feel her heat

"Iesha. God Iesha" he whispered and the deepened his kiss.

Sliding his hands he grasped her hips and ground his burgeoning cock between her thighs, swallowing her moans. Their parents were sleep, but they definitely didn't need them to walk in at this moment.

"Troy, please" she whispered. 

He lifted her and carried her to the loveseat, where he laid her down covering her body with his. Not once severing the contact of their lips on each other.

"Troy, I'm so damn hot for you. It's unreal" Iesha whispered.

"I know baby." He answered making short work on the buttoned of her thin top. Soon her lacy black bra was exposed to his view and he covered the demi cup sucking her hardened nipple deep into his mouth.

Iesha moaned and Troy quickly hushed her.

"Quiet baby, we don't want to wake Dad and Mary" Troy whispered.

Soon, she was naked waist up and he was still fully clothed. Troy stopped, stood, and snatched off his shirt. He wanted to feel her skin against his. Iesha finished removing her bra, exposing her creamy brown breast and chocolate nipples to Troy's hungry gaze.

Iesha knew Troy took care of himself, but his body defied definition. He was cut, sporting a nice six pack with thick quad and broad shoulders causing her mouth to water. He was definitely all she imagined and more. Gathering her in his arms, both to caress and admire the color tone and texture of their skins, each marveled at how good they looked together. Where she was dark he was fair. Where she was soft, he definitely was hard. On his chest was a sprinkle of sandy brown hair that teased and stimulated her nipples.

"Baby, let me taste." Troy whispered as Iesha rose up as his eager mouth feasted on her nipples as his hands kneaded her ample ass beneath the short skirt she wore. Pushing her panties aside, her teased the sensitive area between her thighs, as his cock grew harder and harder.

The flushing of an upstairs toilet broke them from their reverie, cooling them off quickly. Pulling apart each of them redressing and separating right before Trent came into the room to see what they were up to.

"You two are still up?" Trent asked, knowing they were hiding something. "Iesha, you need to go on to bed, you've got class in the morning. You too, Troy. You've been traveling all day, lay down now.'" Trent insisted.

Iesha stood and hugged her stepfather bidding him goodnight with a peck on the cheek. She quickly escaped to her room.

Troy looked at his dad. "Um, dad, I'm-" Trent stopped him.

"Troy, I may be older, but I'm not blind or stupid. Don't hurt that girl. Now son, go to bed." Trent insisted.

Troy, realizing his dad was aware of what transpired, blushed and stammered, trying to apologize. Trent looked at him and stated. "I ask that you two respect our home. I can't' tell you what to do since you're both grown, but don't do it in this house."

"Yes sir" Troy replied as he went to his bedroom.

Iesha crawled into her bed, body still tingling from Troy's kisses. Damn, he was a good kisser. Closing her eyes she could not sleep. He was two doors down. She listened as he walked to his room securing the door behind him. Later she heard Trent return to his room.

Just like Iesha, Troy could not sleep. He could not get her out of his mind. He wanted to sneak to her room and finish what they started downstairs, but his father's words stopped him. He would respect his home. Besides they were moving too fast. 

Eventually they fell asleep. The next morning Iesha rose early and went to take care of her chores. She was working in the barn, feeding the animals, releasing the ones that need to be outside, and making sure materials were in place for cleaning later when the cowhands came to work.

Troy heard her get up. He stayed in bed as she and his dad went about their daily routines. He listened as Mary prepared breakfast in the kitchen below. He was surprised that Dad didn't pull him out of bed to help.

Troy rose and joined Mary in the kitchen, dressed in his pajama bottoms and a t-shirt, he asked where Dad and Iesha went. Mary told him don't worry. Trent was checking the field and Iesha was checking on the animals.

Troy, picturing Iesha working alone in the barn, excused himself from the kitchen and walked out to see Iesha. Creeping in slowly, he saw her bent over in a simple pair of sweats talking to an old mare. 

Troy froze, because her beauty stunned him. She was all natural. No makeup, hair pulled back, in simple clothes, and she never looked more beautiful to him than at that moment.

Clearing his throat, Iesha jumped. The mare, that was skittish, moved away. 

"Troy, what are you doing out here? You scared me." She scolded him gently.

Like a moth to a flame, he was drawn to her. There was not a thing on this earth that would stop him from tasting her lips this morning.

He walked towards her with purpose, pulled her into his embrace, and sampled her sweet lips.

Iesha felt his cock pressing into her stomach, and her crotch was drenched. Honestly, the moment she saw him standing her pussy swelled at the thought of being alone with him.

"Troy," she moaned as he nibbled on the skin at the base of her collar bone. She slid her hands beneath the thin t-shirt he wore, reveling in the corded dense muscles in his back. Troy caressed her soft skin, cupping her ample breast as he pinched her pebbled nipples.

Spying a clean bale of hay, Troy lifted Iesha and carried her to the hay bale and lay her on top of it. 

Now he wanted her body every bit it seem as Iesha wanted his. Placing her on the flat surface, kissing like true lovers, Troy pushed his very hard stiff cock into her and she pushed her burning cunt eagerly back on to him. 



Their tongues dueled inside each other's mouth as they worked each other into a burning frenzy. Troy stopped, removed his shirt and had Iesha to lay on it. He didn't want the rough surface of the hay to Mark her perfect skin. 



Carefully, he removed her top and once again feasted on her breast. He kneaded one, as he sucked the other deep into the recesses of his hungry mouth. Then he switched, and gave its twin the same treatment.



Then, he began to remove her pants to discover she wore nothing underneath. "Fuck Iesha," Troy whispered as the perfectly trim dark hair at the apex of her thighs came into view.



Iesha went to cover herself when he stopped her and whispered. "Never hide from me baby. Never." 



Troy stood and admired her naked form. "You, my beauty are sheer perfection. Let me look at you." He moved between her thighs, and then spread her legs to admire her hidden treasure.



Embarrassed, Iesha tried to close her legs and stop him, but before she could, Troy leaned down and licked her entire slit, gently tonguing the button at the top of her feminine flower.



It was wickedly glorious. Iesha had never felt anything as glorious as this. 



"Troy!" Iesha gasped. 



Troy looked at her passion filled face and smiled. "Iesha, you taste divine. So sweet." He said. Then he proceeded to pleasure her with his tongue until she came in his mouth and he drank her nectar.



As Iesha came, so sweetly across his tongue, Troy drank her juices, then looking between her legs, Troy could seeing cum running out of the pussy. Leaving a clear wet spot on his shirt.





He was rock hard and wanted to bury himself deep inside her, but he wouldn't take her here in a barn. His first time with her would be special, and she'd know how beautiful and precious she was to him. So he lay beside her and held her in his arms until the tremors subsided. Then, he helped her redressed and kissed her once more before returning to the main house to join their parents for breakfast.



Troy started to go without her, but he decided to wait for her. Would he and Iesha be together, he hoped so. But for now, he needed everyone to know the truth. His Dad said to respect his home, and he would. However, his Dad and Mary would have to learn to respect the fact that he and Iesha were not ever going to see each other as a sibling. 



"Troy, go on. I'll be in shortly. I need to finish taking care of Bess." Iesha told him wanting him to go back without her. If they entered together, there was no way to hide what they were just up to.

Troy had a seat, "I'll wait." He answered. Then at her annoyed pout, he smiled.                             

Iesha turned and looked at him, thinking He is too perfect, I've found the man of my dreams in my own home. How ironic.. Slightly annoyed, she reminded him of their situation.

"Troy, if we walk back together. Momma might figure out..." she blushed.

Troy laughed and wanted to kiss her again. "Baby, I'm sure your Momma knows. Besides, she was young once too. Besides, Dad knows, so he's going to tell her at some point." 

Iesha's eyes narrowed, "He knows what?" She asked, heart pounding. She could only imagine how Trent felt about this. He'd go ballistic and be followed right by Momma. Then she stopped, took a deep breath, and thought for a moment. Last night, Momma talked to her and she didn't seem to upset at the thought of her being with Troy. She was concerned about her getting hurt. 

Iesha shuttered, As for Trent, since she'd been at the ranch over the last four years, he never once shunned her. He treated her like his own, loved her unconditionally, and would never turn on her. It might be alright. 

Troy stood and stated, "Iesha, they love us. They want us to be happy. Come on, let's go inside." He reached for her hand.

Soon the young couple entered the house to face their parents. Trent was sitting at the table as Mary was placing out the breakfast. When they walked in, one look at the two of them told all. Troy had moved to place a protective arm around Iesha's waist and she in turn, leaned into him. Their stance was that of young lovers facing impossible odds.

Trent looked at them, cleared his throat, and said "Well, it's about time you two came in. I was afraid I'd have to come get you and God knows what I would have walked in on."

Iesha gasped and pulled away, but Troy wouldn't let her go as he laughed at his Dad's pun.

Mary scolded him, "Trent, Oh my goodness, " she said trying to hide her laughter, resulting in everyone but Iesha collapsing in bundles of amusement. She was embarrassed, but relieved.

Soon everyone calmed down and ate breakfast. Iesha had class to get to and Trey wanted to help around the ranch. Mary went on with her routines for the day.

Troy walked Iesha to her car and wanted to kiss her before she drove off, but she wasn't comfortable being open yet, Troy hugged her close and made her promise to drive safely. She left and he walked in and had to face Amy.

"Troy you're leaving in less than two weeks, and she's so young. I mean..." Troy smiled and hugged his stepmother. 

"Mary, I won't hurt her. She's everything to me." Troy whispered. It was then that she realized that Iesha wasn't the only one who could get hurt. Her boy, her son Troy was just a vulnerable. 

"Son, can you two go slow? I'm not saying don't get involve, just take these two weeks to get reacquainted. You have a history, and you need to get to know each other."

Troy's mind immediately went to how well he got to know his little vixen earlier, and Mary noticed the gazed look.

"Ew, son. I don't need to know." She exclaimed. "Just slow it down son. That's all I ask.

Troy loved Mary and he, like his Dad would move heaven and earth to make her happy. She wasn't forbidding them, just asking him to slow it down.

"OK, Mary. We'll slow it down. But she's so beautiful, and it's hard to not want-" Troy was stopped as his Dad interrupted.

Trent walked in. "Son, I know what you mean, but Mary's right, you got time."

Eventually, the two men went to work. They came in for lunch and troy waited on Iesha's call. She called but right at the end of his lunch hour. She'd just gotten out of class and was heading out for a quick lunch herself.

They spoke briefly and then hung up. Troy was on cloud nine the rest of the day.

That evening Iesha came home and the first person she saw was Troy sitting on the porch of their home trying to look as if he wasn't waiting for her. She smiled, parked, and walked up to him.

It took every ounce of his self-control to not leap off of the porch and drag her someplace where they could be alone. 

"Hey Iesha," he greeted her. "So, how was your day?"

She was enthralled by him and almost couldn't speak, then, she smiled. Taking in his dusty attire, she smiled and said, "It was great Troy. I see you've been busy." She replied as he moved to help carry her laptop and backpack inside.

Once inside the house, Iesha set forth to helping her mother get set up for dinner. Troy went back to helping with the work in the corrals.

Right before dinner was served, Trent came in and asked Iesha to meet him in his office. He wanted to talk to her about the budding relationship between her and Troy. He'd spoken to Troy and felt she deserved the same respect.

"Iesha, you are the daughter of my heart and I'm going to be honest. I know you and Troy have feelings for each other. It's understandable. I mean, he's a good looking boy, and girl you're beautiful" Trent declared with pride.

"I am not going to tell you not to see him. That would be pointless, but baby girl, in two weeks he's moving away. I don't want you to get hurt. So please Iesha, I think you two should slow down. Do you hear what I'm saying?" Trent queried.

Iesha smiled. Trent was so protective of her. Ever since he walked up on her being attacked by a group of local kids, and saw how alone she was, he made it his mission to keep her safe.

Iesha fell in love with her stepdad in that moment.She was walking back to the ranch from the school, when Missy Beck, Tammy Smith, and Bunny Marsh accosted her. They had tortured her at school all day and were now coming in for the kill.

The three girls surrounded her at the corner of Main Street and Hamel. No one seemed to notice. No one ever noticed. They just walked by. She knew why. She was awful, and her bad attitude was legendary. Many people still held what she did to Troy against her.

What they didn't know was that she hated herself just as much. She had no one, just her Mom, and part of her wondered if she even really liked her. But on this day, as the girls surrounded her things changed. She didn't know Trent was in town. She didn't expect anyone to stop the teasing. Then out of nowhere, her stepdad appeared and put an end to her torment.

He then drove her back to the school and demanded to see the principal. In no uncertain terms, he told him that no one had the right to pick on his little girl and if these girls bothered her again he'd press charges.

He then went to each home and talked with the parents of her tormentors. 

He called her his little girl and stood up for her. That was the moment she realized she was never alone. That someone really did care. Trent was there when no one else even said a word. He came. When they left the last home, Trent looked at the small young woman sitting next to him. 

He felt guilty. This child had lived in his home for over a year. He let Mary deal with her, saying as little to her as possible. Not that he left everything to Mary; he supported her when she needed it. He had no idea how she was being treated. He suspected Mary knew, but maybe she felt he wouldn't care. Their family was broken and today he planned to fix it. His heart broke for a young girl that seemed so lost and alone.

She was so small and he realized alone. She never had friends over and the other kids never invited her to their homes. He thought it was her attitude, but today as he stood in the hardware store and watched those girls gang up on her, he knew. She wasn't alone by choice, but by circumstance.

So he decided to get to know this small girl with the big mouth and bad attitude, and within months he loved her as if she was his own.

He couldn't imagine any man meeting and not loving this beautiful young woman, even his son. Yes, he knew his son loved her and he understood. After all, she was Mary's daughter, how could Troy not fall for her. 

Looking nervous, Iesha wanted to speak. The thing she feared most of all was disappointing Trent or her mother.

"Iesha, how do you feel about him?" Trent asked. He knew she loved him. It didn't just start during this visit. Something happened in California and for her it grew.




Not My Sister



"I don't know. I think about him all of the time. Even when he was away, I thought of him. At first I just wanted his forgiveness, but when he was with Amy, it changed. When he moved to England, it hurt, but now he's back." She exhaled.

"I know he's moving to Washington in two weeks and I don't like it. But if I get this chance to be with him, then I want to take it. It'll hurt when he leaves, but at least I'll have this time." She concluded.

"Iesha, I just don't want your heart broken. You're so young, maybe you should date-" Trent started to say. 

"Trent if you had just two weeks to spend with Momma, would you waste time dating someone else?" she asked.

Trent stood, "Come here. Baby girl, be careful. And you need to take your time. Don't rush. Oh, and no messing around in this house, hear me." He told her as he gave her a big bear hug.

"OK, Trent, I promise not to take advantage of your son." she whispered. He laughed. 

Soon they exited his study where an anxious Troy was sitting at the table waiting. He immediately moved to Iesha to see if she was alright, not that she wouldn't be, but he had to make sure.

The family ate dinner and as it ended a knock on the door.

Trent opened the door and Mark was there.

"Hey, Mr. Blackmon, is Iesha around?" he asked.

Troy walked in and was instantly annoyed with this guy. Iesha was off limits and he'd make sure this guy got the message.

Seeing Troy's aggressive stance, Iesha decided to diffuse the situation immediately. Mark was her best friend, her only friend, and she needed him to understand that. 

Troy walked into the room and the level of aggression increased rapidly.

"Look, Mark." Trent addressed the young man. "Now isn't a good time to stop by. Can you come back later?"

A look of clear frustration and disappointment crossed his face. "Yes sir, I won't stay but I really need to tell Esh something." He explained almost desperatle.

Iesha realizing her friend was clearly distraught, invited him in. "Trent, it's alright. Can we talk in your office? It'll be just a few minutes."

Troy didn't like it; he didn't want to leave her alone with Mark so he followed them to the office. Iesha stopped him at the door and asked, "What are you doing? Give us a minute, please."

Troy looked at her, clearly not liking the thought of her being alone with Mark and whispered, "I'm not leaving you alone with him or any other man."

A part of her was pleased, and a part of her was truly concerned for Mark. "Troy, he's a friend. Thst's it. Trust me. OK."

Nodding, but clearly not satisfied. He stood outside the office while she went in to talk to her friend.

"Mark, what's wrong?" Iesha asked.

"Esh, I lost her. She says I'm too young and she's tired of playing with a kid." Mark was looking out of the window, recalling the cruel words his secret lover shared with him earlier today.

"She called me last night to meet her, but I had to bring you along. I tried to tell her you had plans with your family when I showed up. She was furious." He explained.

"She called me this morning and told me its over. I made her a laughingstock." Mark sobbed. "I love her, Esh. I thought she loved me. She said she was just killing time until a real man came along. Then she told me if I come near her again, she's calling the police."

"Mark, I'm so sorry. I wish I could fix this, but maybe..." Iesha stopped. She could understand how he felt. If Troy told her these things, her world would end. So Iesha hugged her friend and supported him as he cried over the woman he lost. She hated her. No one had the right to hurt Mark like this. For the past three years, he stood by her when no one else wanted her around.

She wanted to warn him about getting involved with a much older woman, but didn't know what to say. When the woman gave him an ultimatum: his relationship with her, or Iesha stay out of their business. She stopped talking, and stayed loyal to her fiend.

For over a year, she helped him steal time with this woman. But now, she callously threw him aside. She'd be there for him, support him, and do everything she could to help him through this. Hopefully, when he came out on the other side, he'd be fine.

"Hey, I'm sorry. Your brother is visiting and I know he hates me. I'd better go. Thanks Esh, for listening." He hugged her as he readied himself to leave.

"Wait, let's clean your face." Iesha said. She didn't want others witnessing his break down. Eventually, they came out of the office.

Troy was standing anxiously in the hall waiting. As soon as Iesha came out, he crossed to her to make sure she was ok, a move that did not go unnoticed by Mark, who shot his friend a startled look.

"I'm going to walk Mark out. I'll be back." She explained removing herself from Troy's grip.

"I'll walk with you." Troy explained.

The two of them walked Mark to his car and he got inside, but not before Iesha hugged him and told him to call when he got home.

Mark drove off and Iesha walked away from Troy. He wasn't having it.

"Iesha, what's wrong?" he asked.

Looking at him, she paused, "It's not my secret to share."

Troy didn't like it. "Did he touch you, do anything to you?"

"No, he's my best friend Troy and I hate what she's doing..." Iesha stopped. "I'm sorry, I can't talk about it."

She walked off. Troy wanted to follow her, but it was clear she needed a minute. So Troy returned to the family room with Trent and Mary.

"Something is going on with her friend Mark." Troy explained.

Mary was concerned, instantly. "Oh my goodness! I hope it'll be alright. Let me talk to her." She stood to find her daughter.

Trent sat with Troy and felt the need to explain as best he could. "Mark was the only kid that came around when she was younger. There were many days when he was the only reason she didn't give up son."

"I don't know to what is going on, but something had to happen last night. That's why he came here then and why he's here today. Years ago, when I stopped those girls from attacking her, they turned on him. Even though she was scared to death, she stood with him." Trent explained. "Son, don't force her to choose. I know you want to demand that he stay away, but don't son."

Troy listened to his dad, and assented to not interrupt her friendship with the other man.

Meanwhile, Mary found Iesha sitting on the steps of the back porch crying softly. "Baby, what is it?"

"Momma, I hate her. How can she treat him like..." Mary then held her daughter as she cried for her friend.

"Baby, all you can do now is be here for him. He trusts you. He'll be alright." She assured her.

Then she held her a little longer as she cried for her friend.

Eventually they went back in and were ready for bed. Trent ever the comedian said. "Um, Mary. One of us needs to stay up. No telling what kind of hanky-panky these two will be up too."

Troy laughed and told his dad, "I won't do anything you wouldn't."

"That's it," declared Trent, "I'm staying up. I know what I'd be doing." Mary and Troy laughed as Mary swatted her husband scolding him for his buffoonery. 

Soon the older couple went to their room, leaving Troy and Iesha alone.

"Come here, girl." Troy whispered, pulling Iesha into his arms. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine. It's just that, it's so unfair." She sighed, wrapping her arms tightly around him, inhaling his scent.

Troy and Iesha sat on the sofa holding each other, simply being quiet.

Soon, he heard her snoring softly and realized she'd fallen asleep.

He woke her up and told her to go on to her room. They could talk tomorrow morning. 

Iesha retired to her room, Troy went to his. Tonight's events gave him quite a bit to think about. He remembered his dad saying something about some girls, but he took care of it. He also realized that if he tried to force her to drop her friend, he might force her out of his life. 

With a thousand thoughts racing, sleep for Troy was elusive. Finally, he succumbed to sheer exhaustion. His last conscious thought was they needed to slow down.

The next morning, Troy awoke and rose early. He would help Dad and Iesha get there early morning chores done. He helped his dada check the fields and. Then he ventured the barn to find Iesha. Of course she was petting Bessie again. He didn't want to startle her so he waited quietly inside the barn door.

"Are you just going to stand there or come all the way in?" Iesha asked. She was relieved that he ventured to the barn, for she really wanted a few moments alone with him.

Troy entered slowly, not wanting to spook the mare. He walked up behind her and hugged her from behind. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine. But Mark, ug!... I don't know what to do?" Iesha exhaled. "I'm hanging out with him after class, so I won't be straight home."

"OK, call if you need me alright." He asked. "Dad told me a little about your friend. I'm there if he needs..."

He was willing to help Mark. He didn't even know him, but he wanted to help. "Thank you. That means so much that you want to help. Troy, you are amazing." as she turned to embrace him.

He held her close, inhaling her scent. His minds replaying the events from the morning before, he decided to wait. As much as he wanted her, he'd give her what she needed. So he dampened down his desire and chose to just be her friend.

Soon they returned to the main house and had breakfast with their parents. Iesha informed them that she was checking on Mark so she might be late. Mary told her when she came home, bring Mark with her. He was more than welcomed.

After breakfast, Iesha drove to class. Troy worked, and life went on. At lunch, Iesha called Troy just because she missed him, making his day. He asked when she was meeting Mark. She told him. He then asked her to please be careful

As soon as her last class ended, Iesha went to her friend's small apartment. She knocked and he didn't answer. She knew he was home because his car was there and he told her he would be there earlier. 

Iesha knocked louder. No answer. Finally using the spare key that was hidden on the door ledge , she let herself into his apartment. Calling out his name as she entered, Mark grunted from his bedroom.

He was a sore sight, passed out, hung-over, face-flushed. She was not worth this. The woman who hurt him needed to suffer as much and as badly as she was hurting her friend. "Mark, get up. Come on, you need to bath."

"Esh, you're my best friend. My only friend, I love you girl." He spoke in a slurred voice.

Iesha focused on helping him up, said, "I love you too, Mark. Let's clean you up."

"I'm nothing Esh. Dad was right. Those kids were right. You need to run. Get away from me." Mark continued.

"Come on, Mark. Stop. She's not worth this." Iesha told him. "You are my best friend. I'm here for you and will help you through this. Besides, Momma wants you at the ranch for dinner. You know I'm scared of Momma." She chuckled.

She ran his bathwater and helped him undress. She left out before he removed his underwear and climbed into the tub. Despite the melancholy of the moment, she could not help but compare him to Troy. Where her best friend was lanky and thin, Troy was buff and toned. Where Mark was pale and lean, Troy was tanned and muscular. Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, she told him to call her when he was ready to get out. She left him to sit in the front as her secured the door behind her, whispering "You don't get it Iesha".

"Mark, are you alright?" Iesha called after a few minutes. Mark grunted in response.

She called again and he answered once more. All of a sudden she felt a sense of foreboding nervous she called his name again, no answer. At this point she went to open the door and he'd locked it. Beating on the bathroom door and screaming her friend's name, she could not get him to answer.

Not knowing what to do, she called home and Troy answered. 

"Hey, Baby, glad you called. Are you at Mark's house?" Troy asked.

"Yea, and he's, it's just that he's" Iesha stopped. Her friend was devastated and she didn't know how to help him. "He locked the door and won't answer me Troy, something is wrong. Mark won't answer." she cried frantically into the phone.

"I'm coming over there. Give me his address." Troy demanded. Nervous and relieved, Iesha gave him the address. 

"Who is it?" Iesha called. 

"It's Troy. Open up." Iesha quickly let him in. 

"Thank goodness. He's in the shower. I'm worried because he's not answering me anymore." Iesha said terrified.

Troy shoved opened the door and rushed into the bathroom. Mark was sitting on the floor of the tub, water cascading over his body, passed out. He was breathing but his stench told the story that he drank way too much.

Troy had Iesha to make coffee and woke Mark up and talked to him. Eventually he sobered up enough to tell Troy what happened. He knew the woman that used him. She had a thing for young men. A kid in Mark's situation was easy pickings for her.

Troy listened and sympathized. He reassured Mark that he'd be alright and he'd meet the perfect woman one day. His eyes fell on Iesha as he spoke. Even disheveled, she was a goddess in his eyes.

Mark noticed and was about to state the obvious when Troy interrupted him, "She is not my sister. She is ..." Closing his eyes, Troy gathered his thoughts, "She's so much more." He declared smiling, with love shining in his eyes for her.

Mark shook his head. "So you're the guy. I knew she cared about someone, but couldn't figure out whom." Mark exhaled as he cupped his coffee cup. "She's a jewel, don't hurt her."

Troy looked at her friend, and for a moment realized that this kid was cool. "I'll try not to." he answered. 

Iesha had finished rinsing out the coffee cups they'd used and walked in at the end of the conversation. Troy caught her hand and pulled her into his lap. Gently, he wrapped his arms around her, nuzzling her neck.

Iesha leaned into his embrace when Mark cleared his throat. With tears in his eyes he said. "You two are so lucky. Are you going to do the long distance thing, or will I lose my best friend because she will move away?"

They froze. Honestly neither had thought beyond the moments they'd shared. This was one thing they needed to talk about. Iesha heart whimpered when she thought for a minute. In a few days, Troy was leaving. Her rock, the one person that she wanted to dedicate her life to, was leaving in a week. Troy saw the flash of sadness in her eyes, and wanted to hold her close and wipe away her sadness. This is one thing his Dad was trying to warn him against. He still had ten days before he left, so he and Iesha would slow it down and see where things lead.

It was late so, he and Iesha ended up staying at Mark's place overnight. It was too late to drive home and they didn't want to leave him alone. So Troy called and explained the situation to their parents.

Iesha stayed over often, so she had her bed all sorted out. Mark offered to let Troy bunk in with him. However, Troy realized that for once he and Iesha had a chance to be alone and not in his Dad's house. 

"Great, thanks Mark." Troy answered. He knew that now was not the time to become intimate. They needed to really get to know each other, and then they could share more.

They bid each other good night and everyone went to bed. A few hours later, they all woke up and had to get back to the ranch. Iesha had chores and needed to get ready for classed, and Troy was helping with the cattle roundup. Mark seemed a lot better this morning. He actually dressed and rode with Iesha back to the ranch.

As soon as they arrived, Mark went straight to the kitchen with Mary was waiting to give him all the love and attention she could. Troy went with Iesha to help her with the animals. 

This was the first time Troy and Iesha were completely alone. It was also the first chance he had to kiss her the way he wanted too.

As soon as she tended Bessie and the other animals and he'd finished setting up supplies, Troy gathered her in his arms and held her. She felt so good. He kissed her gently then looked deep into her eyes marveling at her loveliness.

He walked over to her gathered her close and held her, He just wanted to feel her in his arms. Then he kissed her softly as he stared into her eyes.

"Baby, let's go in and freshen up. Can you miss today, because we need to talk?" he asked. 

Iesha nodded and agreed. She only had one class today, and she could email her professor. To get any assignments she might miss. Together they walked back to their house, to their floor, and went to their respective rooms. They showered dressed and joined Trent, Mary, and Mark downstairs.

Everyone ate breakfast. Troy asked to speak to Trent. "Dad, I want to talk with Iesha today. You were right, so I won't be here to help with the morning round up. Depending on how it goes, I'll come in after lunch."

Trent nodded, "What about Mark? He rode out her with y'all. Are you going to run him back to town or will he visit the ranch for a spell?"

Troy had forgotten about Mark. His main concern was spending time with Iesha. They had so much to settle and never really had time to talk.

"Darn it" Troy exclaimed. "Let me see what he wants to do" he stated.

Then they returned to the dining room where Mark wash doing dishes with Iesha as Mary sat and laughed at their antics. 

"You know what Ms. Blackmon, if it's not a problem, can I stay here for the day? I've always felt at home here and Esh can drive me home later?" he asked expecting her to refuse.

Iesha looked concerned. She knew Mark was attracted to older woman. At thirty-eight, her mother was gorgeous. She didn't want her best friend to start crushing on her Mom. Besides, Trent would probably kill him.

"I think that's a great idea. Mary he can help you move some if the heavy furniture for you. I don't like you straining yourself." Trent added.

"Iesha and Troy, I'll see you later." Now I'm headed to the field.

Troy and Iesha left to find someplace to talk. They ended up at an old cabin on the outskirts of the property. It was rustic, but they were not there for the décor.

Troy went in first and cleared off the old sofa and guided Iesha to her seat. She sat and looked at him anxiously. 

"Let me start here first." Troy exhaled. "Iesha I accept your apology and forgive you for lying on me five years ago."

Iesha smiled, her eyes shimmering with tears. She started to speak, but Troy touched her lips and asked her to wait.

"Iesha, the truth is I've always thought you were beautiful. I ignored it at first, but in California I had to face it. You were a kid and I had no right to lust after you. I tried telling myself you were a kid, a vicious troll, evil personified, but I wanted you." He exhaled.

Troy continued, "I went to Europe. I forgot for a while and I figured out of sight out of mind right. Then, my internship ended and I needed to come home, see you. I needed to know if I was over you. I came home and you came downstairs. Time stopped for me."

"Troy, I..." Iesha started to say, but Troy wouldn't let her interrupt.

He continued, "Iesha, I need you to understand this. I have never thought of you as my kin. Even though we are both young, if we pursue this, we have to be ready for fall out. This is a small town and people will gossip. Dad and Mary will be talked about, judged, and ostracized. The town will see us as kin, baby. You know how cruel they can be, and you've suffered at their hands.

So I think we should hang out, at home and in public so people get used to seeing us together. We need to keep our relationship behind closed doors." At her gasp, and the look of hurt in her eyes he rushed to explain. "I am not, nor have I ever been ashamed of you. I love you. But, I'm leaving in a few days and you will still be here. I won't do something that will cause you pain. You know how small minded the people here are. I want to-"