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Ryan Ch. 02

By: MissPrimrose222



Driving home Dani couldn't get Ryan off of her mind. She felt like she was waiting for a phone call from someone to tell her that she'd been punked. 

"Oh my God," she thought, "he's gorgeous!"

At six feet six inches tall, Ryan Sinclair was a sight to behold. His body was well muscled, but not body builder freaky. His green eyes were deep and clear like the finest Colombian emeralds, and when he smiled, they lit up his entire face. Dani was sure that damn smile was going to be nothing but trouble. 

He was a big, handsome, masculine, sexy man. He was hot. Not all handsome men were hot, Dani knew that from personal experience, but this guy might as well have had a capital H tattoo on his fine ass. Yeah, she got a good look at that when he turned to go to checkout. 

Dani sighed and shook her head. She just wasn't the type to make a date with a total stranger and a white guy at that. At the time, however, his race was the last thing on her mind. Hell, she didn't even think it crossed her mind the entire time she was talking to him. It's not that she had any prejudice about dating outside of her race; it's just that she'd never thought of it and no one had ever asked, until now. Crystal was right about one thing, she as in a rut. Maybe Ryan would provide the shake up her life needed. 

* 

When Dani got home she placed the panel on the dining table and plopped down on the sofa. 

Home was a condo she'd purchased a year ago. Buying a home was a dream come true, one she worked hard to attain, along with financial independence. Her social life took a hit during that time, but having her own place was more than worth it.

She'd worked at a series of jobs in the daytime and went to school at night. Using the skills learned from those courses, she secured her current position as a paralegal at a prestigious law firm. Now, she was at a great place financially where she could relax a bit and have more fun in her life.

Dani was still feeling good about meeting Ryan, but she wanted to get some clarity on the situation. Although her sister, who was four years older, was opinionated, she had a way of giving Dani what she needed to make her own decisions. Taking her cell phone from her handbag, she got into a comfortable position on the sofa and called Crystal. 

"Holla at your girl, baby Sister," Crystal answered.

Getting to the point Dani let drop, "I've met a man, Crystal."

"What?!" Crystal screeched. "What man, where did you meet him, what's his name?!" 

"Whoa, Sis," Dani laughed. "His name is Ryan Sinclair and I met him at Lowes today."

"Lowes?" Crystal asked as if she'd never heard of the place before. 

"You got picked up by some guy in Lowes, the home improvement place?! Oh, hell no! My baby sister is not going to be blindsided by some smooth talking Mr. Fix it." 

Once Crystal paused in her tirade she said, "You know Isaac's brother still wants to meet you. You'd make a great couple." 

"Really, Crystal, you know I'm not interested in Isaac's brother. I should get points for meeting a guy who hasn't been vetted by friends or family. I'm twenty four years old and I have to find out for myself what type of man is right for me. Besides, we're just going on a date." 

"Ok," Crystal said reigning in her mother hen persona.

"You know I'm never going to stop being your big sister or stop wanting the best for you."

"I know Crystal, but as you said, I'm in a rut. This is the first impulsive thing I've done in a long time and it felt good. Ryan seems like a decent guy and like I said, it's only a date. It's not like he's Prince Charming riding in on his steed to take me to some far away magical land. Although, heaven help me, the man is fine". 

"Fine, huh? Sounds like Prince Charming."

Dani could imagine the grin on Crystal's face. They talked a little longer with Dani giving up as little information as possible. She wanted to see how things went with Ryan before she got cross examined further by her sister. 

Despite being asked what Ryan looked like, Dani gave Crystal the basics; tall, handsome with beautiful eyes. She left out the fact that he was Caucasian intentionally. Crystal was a firm believer of dating within your own race. It wasn't lost on Dani that some of their own ancestors were not 'in their race', but Crystal seemed to be in denial. 

As for Ryan, Dani was going to play it by ear. 

* 

After dropping off the paint at his sister's house and promising to return the next day to do the job, Ryan headed home. There were chores to do before he got ready for his date. He hadn't been this excited about a woman in a long, long time. 

Ryan lived alone in a huge five bedroom Spanish Style Villa. His home, designed to his specifications with help from his father, was open concept with the living area, dining and kitchen making up a large space. The crowning jewel as far as Ryan was concerned was the outdoor area with it's enormous kitchen and grill area with a back drop of a well manicured lawn, pool and gazebo. 

Ryan built the house with money that he'd inherited from his Grandmother, Sarah McMillan. He also did well with his own money. He invested most of his salary from eight years in the Military in his sports bar, The Big Bang. In addition, there were other business interests, but the bar he loved. 

The Big Bang was a huge stand alone bar on five acres of woodland property. It had the standard bar set up as well as ten big screen televisions for watching sporting events. The thing that really set it apart from other sport bars, besides the size of the place, was the high end furnishings and décor. The clientele were from every walk of life and everyone got the same A-plus service. 

Both of Ryan's grandparents, on his father's side, came from old money, but his grandfather expanded the family business and made it a worldwide concern. He didn't have the chance to know them, but his mother made sure that he knew about them. From an early age she talked to him about his Grandma Sarah and Grandpa Henry, as well as his birth father, who donated time and money to various social causes.

His father, Michael Ryan McMillan, was an only child who died in a car wreck when Ryan was 4 months old. His Father's death was, of course, devastating to both his mother and grandmother. His Grandpa McMillan was no longer with them having died when Michael was a teenager. 

His mother, Helen, especially found it hard to deal with her grief while raising a young child, even though she had the support of Sarah and her own family. But, as time passed, her grief lessened and she finally achieved some measure of peace.

Ryan was the love of her life, a constant loving reminder of the husband whom Ryan favored, except for the color of his eyes, which he inherited from her. Helen lived for her child and for a while, she thought that was all that she needed and wanted. 

Fortunately for all of them, she met Daniel Sinclair at an art gallery in Miami. Although Helen was not thinking about dating, Daniel convinced her with his smile and easy manner to go out with him. Still, it was not all easy going. Daniel had a hard time convincing her that she was the love of his life. It was even more difficult for her to take a chance with him, with marriage again. 

For her, Michael had been the love of his life. Daniel understood that and assured her that the love that they had would be enough. Michael would always be a part of her, he recognized that truth and wasn't jealous of the bond she had with her deceased husband. 

Ryan was almost three years old at the time and took to Daniel right away. Daniel, having come from a large family, with five brothers, four sisters and hordes of nieces and nephews, was use to interacting with children and spent a lot of time with Ryan. It was through Ryan that he truly began to melt Helen's heart. If she could trust him with Ryan, she knew she could trust him with her heart. 

Finally, she realized that she was in love with him and that if he was to die the next day, she would be just as hurt, married or not. She also knew in her heart, that Michael would not have wanted her to spend the rest of her life alone. 

Daniel Sinclair was exactly what Helen needed. He was someone who was already established in business, having co-ownership of a world renowned architectural concern. He was confident, generous and steadfast. Best of all he loved Helen and Ryan wholeheartedly. 

He adopted Ryan shortly after marrying Helen. Eventually, there was Micah, now twenty seven years old and Caleb, twenty five. With three boys, Helen and Daniel thought their family was complete until Haley, unexpectedly came along when Caleb was a year old. 

Micah helped out at the bar when Ryan needed him, but his passion was making custom guitars. His company, The Guitar Guru was widely known throughout The U.S., Canada and South America. He worked alone to insure the quality of each piece. As a result, he was well known in the highest musical circles. His guitars were so sought after that his clients were willing to wait however long it took to produce the perfect instrument. 

Caleb's love of old detective stories served him well as a Mystery/Fantasy writer. He first became a published author at the age of nineteen, with his novel The Time Lord's Escape, which was number one on the New York Times Bestsellers list for fifteen weeks. 

Haley was a preschool teacher. With her love of children, no one was surprised that she married and got pregnant within a year. 

The Sinclairs were a tight knit family who loved and protected each other. Ryan exuded confidence which he had honed in the military. He eagerly took on the responsibility of leadership among his siblings who respected him and knew his word was his bond. 

*

Entering his home, Ryan wondered what Dani would think of it. The fact that he was imagining her in his home wasn't lost on him. It was a long time since he'd thought about sharing his space with someone else. He didn't know what it was about Dani that got him interested so fast, but he wasn't about to waste his chances with her. 

Going to the fridge he took out a beer, plopped down on the sofa and turned on the big screen TV. It was only three o'clock, he had more than enough time to do his chores and get ready for his date. 

Micah was at the bar and Ryan needed to call to let him know that he wouldn't be coming in at all today. Sports Center was on TV, so he thought he'd get that call in to his brother now rather than later. As he reached in his back pocket for his cell phone, it rang. Checking the caller ID, he saw that it was his good friend Wheeler. 

"Hey, man, what's up?" Ryan asked. 

"Yo, Ry, some of the guys are getting together for poker tonight and I wanted to give you heads up to see if you wanted to come. It's at Rico's place. How about it? You know I like taking your money," Wheeler challenged. 

"Yeah, right," Ryan snorted. "You couldn't buy a box of tic tacs with the money you've won off of me." 

"Well, I guess you've got me on that, but I keep living for the day," Wheeler agreed with an exaggerated sigh. 

"Don't even try that, man. I don't feel sorry for you. You've sent Rico to the ATM more times than I care to count. I don't know how one person can be so bad at something he does on a regular basis, " Ryan said laughing. 

"I hear you, man. But, what about it, are you interested in playing tonight?"

"I'm going to have to take a rain check, I've got a date."

"A date? Is it Madelyn, the one with the big..." Wheeler started but was interrupted by Ryan. 

"No, it's not Madelyn. It's someone I met this morning at Lowes." 

Lowes? Damn, you're shopping for chicks at Lowes now? It's no wonder the rest of us can't keep up," Wheeler complained. 

"Yeah, yeah, you're deprived, I know," Ryan said sarcastically. "Who's your flavor of the week?"

"You know what they say Ry, you have to go through a lot of wenches to find your queen."

"You're the only person I've ever heard say that Wheeler. You might have to date someone with something other than double D's to find your queen," Ryan suggested. 

"Ok, ok. I can't help that I love the fluffies. You know I've always been a tit man. But, enough about my women, what is the Lowes girl like?" Wheeler asked. 

"The Lowes girl, as you call her, is Danielle Carter. What I know about her is mostly what she looks like, but I intend to learn a lot more about her tonight. And before you ask, no, I'm not going to tell you her breasts size."

"Damn, Ry, you're no fun. I guess I just have to wait until I meet her. By the way, when will that be?" Wheeler asked more than curious. 

"Not anytime soon. You'll just have to let your imagination fill in the blanks. Check that, I don't even want you thinking about Dani," Ryan said, not realizing he'd shortened Danielle's name.

"Oh, it's like that? You know you've piqued my interest all the more. Ok, man, I'll let you off the hook and tell the guys that you're out for tonight. I'll give Grant a call and see if he wants to play."

"All right, Wheeler. I'll talk to you later," Ryan said and clicked off his cell phone. He immediately dialed Micah's number, and waited for him to answer. 

"Hey, Ryan," Micah answered.

"Just wanted to let you know that I won't be coming by the bar today. I have some chores to do around the house and a date tonight. "

"A date, huh? Is it anyone I know?" Micah asked. 

"No, I just met her today. I'll tell you about it later," Ryan replied.

"Cool, can't wait." Ryan could hear the smile in Micah's voice. 

"I bet you are," Ryan retorted and quickly said goodbye. 

Once his family got wind of a new woman in his life, they would want the details. He really didn't mind, though. A nosy family was a sign of love to him. They'd all tried their hands at matchmaking, but have shied away from doing so of late. 

A couple of years ago, they had their hopes dashed and since then they'd sort of retreated to the sidelines to let Ryan go at his own pace. That didn't mean they weren't interested, only that they weren't as pushy. 

His family thought Ryan's relationship with Caroline Jameson might lead to marriage, but it ended abruptly and in a manner that none of them expected. Now, he was sure that they weren't going to rush to conclusions about Dani. 

Ryan lay back on the sofa, thinking of his previous relationships. He was thirty three years old and had been in a couple of long term relationships; well, long term by today's standard, three or four years, but the last one didn't end well. 

Caroline wanted to get married and finally gave him an ultimatum. It didn't matter that he had been honest with her from the beginning, telling her that he wasn't looking to get married any time soon. She thought that she could wait him out or change his mind. 

Finally, she got tired of waiting and he got tired of the arguments. He'd love her, they'd been friends most of their lives, but he hadn't been in love with her. The relationship blew up and she left town shortly afterward. He'd heard that she accepted a position in one of her company's oversees divisions. That was a little more than two years ago. 

Shaking himself from his walk down memory lane, Ryan decided that it was time to get to work. * 

At five o'clock Dani was more than anxious. She'd taken a bath, but was now wondering what she should wear. She was still waffling between being excited and thinking she should cancel the date. She just couldn't believe that she'd made a date in a home improvement store. Had she lost her mind? 

"What happened to that stranger danger alarm?" she asked herself, but then shook away the negative thoughts. 

With the clock ticking the minutes away, she finally decided to wear a pair of fawn colored light weight suede pants with a long sleeved cream colored pullover top and short black boots. Although the weather was warm enough, inside the theater tended to be too cold for the cold wuss in her. 

Dani was ready with time to spare, so she sat down to listen to the news. A few minutes later her cell phone rang, it was Crystal. 

"Hi, Crystal." 

"Hey, baby Sister. I just wanted to check with you before you went out on your date. "Are you taking your cell phone? 

"Yes, I'm taking my cell phone. I know you'll be anxious to know how things went, but don't expect a call tonight. I'll call you tomorrow and fill you in," Dani promised. 

"Oh. Are you planning an extended uh, date with Mr. Fix it?" Crystal asked. 

"No. I'm not planning anything, Crystal. I really want this to go well. I don't know what it is about Ryan, but I... I... damn, I don't know. I'm probably just having my first real crush, but I've never felt like this about anyone and I'm kind of scared. I'm not afraid of Ryan, but of how I feel," Dani confessed. 

"It'll be ok, Dani. Just don't rush into anything with this guy. You're not like me; I'm tough and can handle myself with men. This guy might be the one, but just be sure. You know what I'm saying?" she asked.

"Yeah, I know what you're saying, Crystal. I'm not going to rush into anything. I've been on lock down for twenty four years," Dani laughed, "I'm not giving it up that easily." 

"Ok, baby Sister. Have a good time and call me tomorrow."

Dani said goodbye to Crystal and waited until five thirty to leave. She lived only ten minutes away from the Theater and didn't want to get there too early. 

*  As Dani approached the AMC Theater, the butterflies in her stomach grew to epic proportions. She parked her car and waited a few minutes to calm her nerves before getting out. 

As she approached the theater, there were quite a few people in line, but she didn't see Ryan. Checking her watch, she noted that it was only five forty, so she stood on the sideline, trying not to over think things. 

After a few minutes she heard, "Hey, baby."

She turned to see Ryan a few feet away and immediately her heart started to flutter a bit. She was surprised that she didn't take exception to being called baby. On the contrary, it gave her a warm fuzzy feeling. With a shy smile, she returned the greeting. 

"Hi, Ryan." 

He was wearing black jeans with plain black tee-shirt with a sport jacket. Dressed casually, he was damn hot. Dani wasn't above taking a quick look at how the jeans hugged his hips and his considerable manhood. 

Taking her hand in his, he asked, "Have you been waiting long?"

"Err, No. I've only been here a few minutes," Dani replied, flushing at her thoughts and his slight smile, which told her that he was aware of exactly what she feeling.

With his hand still holding hers, he said, "Good," and led her to the end of the line where he released her hand and before Dani could take her next breath, he slipped his arm around her waist.

Dani didn't know what to think of the move. She never liked getting touchy feely on the first date and this one had barely begun. But, almost immediately she realized that she didn't feel uneasy with his touch. In fact, it felt intimate and natural.

When they got to the front of the line Ryan purchased the tickets and they proceeded into the theater. Once inside, he asked if she wanted to get something to eat or drink. 

"I'll have medium popcorn and a small coke, please." Dani said, hoping her stomach wouldn't growl. She was much too nervous to think about eating before she left home.

"Why don't we get a large popcorn and share," Ryan suggested. 

Dani nodded her agreement.

With the purchases made, they headed to their seats. 

They found seats in the middle of the center row, just as the lights went down for the coming attractions. The place was about three fourths full, but there were still people coming in. Dani held the popcorn in her lap and they each put their drink into the cup holders. 


Ryan Ch. 02



The theater featured stadium seating with adjustable arm rests. Ryan chose to pull up the center arm to create a love seat. Sitting back, he put his left arm across Dani's shoulders so that she snuggled next to him as they watched the screen. After a few minutes, Dani was able to relax and enjoy the warmth that flowed from his big body. 

Ryan loved how she felt. He'd felt heard the small intake of breath when he touched her, but then she relaxed. He was purposely trying to get her accustom to the intimacy of his touch. He knew on some level that it was important, even this early in their relationship.

Ryan liked that she accepted him without question. He knew that at her core Dani was shy, but she was also attracted to him. She wasn't flirty with him when he met her and didn't try to impress him, like so many other women. If he had anything to do about it, she would have time to get to know him and feel more at ease. 

* 

After the movie, Ryan suggested going to a nearby coffee shop. Dani, not wanting the evening to end, agreed. There had been little time to talk in the movie theater and she really wanted to know more about him. 

They sat in a booth at the rear of the cafe; it was less crowded and quieter. The waitress approached and took their orders. Black coffee for Ryan and hot chocolate with whipped cream for Dani. After the waitress left, Dani started to fidget a bit in her seat.

Ryan noticed that she was still nervous, although she continued to give him shy smiles. He took that as a good sign. He wanted to know more about her; in fact he wanted to know everything about her including how in the world she managed to be unattached. There would be time for that later.

"Are you originally from Tampa?" he asked. "Yes, I am," Dani said, "although my parents and older sister aren't. My parents lived in Jacksonville, but moved here when my dad got a job promotion. That was twenty five years ago. They moved back to Jacksonville a couple of years ago. What about you, are you from here?"

"I was born here. My father died when I was four months old. My Mom remarried when I was almost five and we moved to Miami because that's where my Step-Dad's business was located. I say Step-Dad, but he's really my Dad, the only Dad I've ever known." 

Continuing, Ryan told her, "He sold his interest in an architectural firm and moved us to Tampa. It has a slower pace than Miami, but still with lots of things to do. Dad kept himself busy with some consulting work, but at the end of the day, he wanted to spend more time with his family."

As the evening progressed they learned more about each other's family, the siblings and their interests. Neither Dani nor Ryan wanted the evening to end, but they knew it had to at some point. Ryan walked Dani to her car. After unlocking it, she turned and leaned back against the driver's door as Ryan moved to stand in front of her. 

Ryan could feel the slight tremble of her body, smell the heated aroma of her perfume. He'd been semi hard all evening, but as he brushed his body against hers, he felt his erection thicken. He didn't want to scare her, but he needed to claim her in some way. 

Dani could feel his hard cock and beneath his cologne, she smelled the woodsy scent that was all man. She sighed and accepted the press of his body against hers. Ryan hands came up and encased her hips, pulling her into him as his head dipped down to hers. 

Dani's mouth was slightly open, the warmth of her breath drawing Ryan like a moth to a flame. He brushed his lips against hers and heard her gasp of pleasure. Taking that as his cue, he deepened the kiss. His tongue slipped between her soft lips, catching her sighs and delving into the deep cavern of her humid mouth. Their tongues dueled while his hips tilted, branding her with his aching fullness. 

They were so lost in the kiss, that they clearly forgot where they were. Ryan was reaching under her top when he heard the sound of a horn blaring. It rocked him back to reality. Dani, on the other hand, was slow to come from under his spell. Pulling her away from the car door, Ryan held her close, but not in that vise-like grip of a few moments ago. 

He soothed her by softly caressing her back with his big warm hands and kissing her forehead while he tried to bring his own breathing under control. 

"Shit, baby," he groaned, "are you all right? I don't know what the hell came over me. I know it's too soon, but..."

Looking up at Ryan, Dani gave him a tender smile and said, "I'm fine, Ryan. It may be too soon, but I'm attracted to you too." 

Sighing, she continued.

"I do think we need to slow down, though. I'd like for us to get to know each other better and not put the horse before the cart, if you know what I mean. Ok?"

Taking a deep breath, Ryan kissed her on the forehead one last time before separating their bodies.

"It's more than ok, baby. We'll go as slowly as you want." 

Dani turned to open the car door, but before she could, Ryan asked to see her again.

"There's a Blues Concert at Vinoy Park next Saturday, would you like to go?" he asked. 

"I'd loved to go. I haven't been to a concert in the park in a couple of years. It's always a good time. What time is it?"

"I don't know off hand. I know about the concert because I know one of the venders. I'll check the time and give you a call tomorrow. I'd like to pick you up at your place, if that's all right with you."

"Yes, that would be great. Let me give you my address." Ryan pulled out his phone, programmed the address and returned it to his back pocket.

After they'd finished making arrangements, Ryan looked down at Dani again and cupped her jaw, running his thumb across her lips. He didn't seem to be able to keep his hands off of her. The way she was looking at him didn't help either.

After he bent and gently kissed her lips, he pulled himself up to full height and opened the car door for her. Dani got in and fastened her seat belt. 

"Goodnight, baby, I'll call you tomorrow," Ryan said and closed the car door. Making his way back to his truck, he realized that he was already missing her. 

*

Dani found it hard to get to sleep that night. All she could think about was how Ryan made her feel. It was like nothing she'd experienced in her life. Although she was less experienced than many young women her age, she understood the mechanics of sex, courtesy of a few heated encounters with dates and having been responsible for her own orgasms for some time. But, none of that had prepared her for the pure physical sexual power that was Ryan Sinclair.

Now, laying naked in her bed with her fingers from her one hand stroking the inside of her labia and those from the other squeezing her aching breasts, it was the thought of Ryan that was fueling her approaching orgasm. 

"Oh, fuck! Ryan, fuck me, fuck me, fuck meeeeee!" Dani cried out, bucking and ramming her fingers deep into her pussy, the heel of her hand sliding against her swollen clitoris.

It was Ryan who was rocking his long thick fingers into her spasming vagina. It was Ryan leaning down to take her clit into his mouth, stroking her with his tongue, lapping at the gushing juices that flowed in warm waves. 

Dani dug her heels into the bed as her body bowed with the force of her orgasm. She tensed for a long sensual moments as she felt sparks all along her nerve endings from her pussy, to her breasts, the hot flush of arousal heating her neck and face. 

She screamed Ryan's name as her orgasm rolled on and on and on. 

Some time later, she didn't know how long, Dani realized that she must have passed out. Her pussy was still burning from her ministrations and her breasts sensitive to touch, but her breathing was back to normal. She cuddled her pillow to her breasts. The scent of her arousal waffled in the air causing her body to ache for the real thing. 

She whispered Ryan's name, turned onto her side, still clutching the pillow and drifted into slumber.

* 

On the other side of town, Ryan Sinclair was having much the same problem. He was aware that the standard approach was to take a cold shower, but he knew from experience that it was only a temporary solution. What his dick needed was some hands on treatment.

Leaning against the shower wall, he wrapped his hand around the thick base of his aching dick. It stood out from his body, a towering nine aching inches of fat veined cut meat. He squeeze slightly as he thought of teasing Dani with the large mushroom head, gathering her juices with it and then slipping the tip into her hot throbbing pussy. As he imagined his dick being sucked in and massaged by Dani's inner walls, Ryan stroked up and down his shaft, paying special attention to the head where pre-cum oozed from the large slit.

As his arousal deepened, he stroked his cock faster and faster, his ragged breath in tune with the rhythm of his hand. Approaching orgasm, he could almost feel the pulsing contractions of Dani's pussy around his shaft. Tighter and tighter it rippled along his sensitive tube until he bucked violently, his hips spewing cum in long arching ropes onto the shower floor. 

Ryan sighed heavily, satisfied that he could at least sleep now. After taking a quick warm shower and toweling dry, he dropped the towel on the hamper lid and headed to bed. Sliding his warm naked body between the cool sheets, he rolled onto his belly and quickly fell asleep.



Ryan Ch. 03



Dani slept all through the night. In fact, she overslept. As a consequence, she was jolted awake by the shrill ring of the cordless phone on the night stand. Struggling to come up from under the covers and her peaceful slumber, she wondered who in hell could be calling her at this ungodly hour. 

Glancing at the clock next to the phone, she realized the hour wasn't ungodly, it was almost noon. 

Irritated with the persistent ringing, Dani grabbed for offensive phone and knocked it off the night stand. Cursing, she quickly recovered it before it stopped ringing. 

"Hello?" she groused.

"Hey, baby Sister. Why didn't you answer your cellphone?" Crystal asked.

Moaning, Dani pushed her hair out of her face and sat up, bracing against the upholstered headboard.

"Crystal, you woke me up, from a sound sleep I might add."

Crystal laughed. 

"Oh, it's like that. You're already worn out by Mr. Fix It? Hell, I have to meet this guy to see who could get my baby sister heated up so fast."

Fully awake now, Dani said, "Uh, no, Crystal. I'm not introducing you to Ryan until I know if he wants to have a real relationship with me. You can eat men alive and even though Ryan is a big boy, I don't want you cross-examining him with your sarcastic wit."

"Who me?" Crystal asked with a chuckle. "I'm as innocent as the day I was born."

"Yeah, right!" Dani retorted. 

The sisters exchanged light hearted banter as Dani told Crystal about her date with Ryan. Crystal, again, cautioned Dani to be careful. Dani assured her that she would be and again admonished her sister for being such a mother hen. 

Thinking of her mother, Dani wondered how long it would be before Crystal spilled the beans to her about Ryan. It wouldn't do to ask her not to say anything to their mother because that would put her sister in a bad position and Dani didn't want her to lie. Their mother put the fear in them about lying at an early age

After reassuring Crystal that she knew what she was doing, she goodbye and hung up. As for knowing what she was doing, she hoped that was true. Giving herself a mental shake, she got out of bed and headed to the bathroom to take a quick shower. There were things to get done and now that she was fully awake, she might as well get to them. 

Dani spent the rest of the day cleaning her condo and doing laundry. It was boring and tedious, but someone had to do it. She could afford a house keeper once a week, but she just didn't like the idea of other people touching her things. Besides, just the thought of someone coming to clean her place would have her tidying up before the housekeeper arrived. 

She was finishing up folding her laundry when her cellphone rang. Checking the caller ID, she saw that it was Ryan. 

"Hi, Ryan." 

"Hey, baby, I'm calling about our date. The concert starts at one o'clock. It would be best to get there well before that time. There's going to be a lot of traffic and although parking is free, we'd have to park somewhere in the boonies if we didn't get there early."

"Yeah, I know," Dani said. "It was a big hassle the last time I went because Crystal was late, as usual. What time do you think we should leave?" 

"I think about eleven," Ryan replied. "There will be some pre-show things going on and we could relax, get something to eat and talk before things get into high gear." "Ok, that sounds like a good idea," Dani agreed. 

"Listen, babe, I don't want to wait until Saturday to see you again. We've only been on one date and I'm already getting withdrawal symptoms," he laugh, not entirely joking. "Are you doing anything Tuesday night?"

"Nope, I'm free," Dani said. "Would you like to come over?"

"Hell yeah, I'd love to come over. I could get some Chinese take out for dinner. That is, if you like Chinese."

"I love Chinese. Bring some egg rolls and orange chicken and I'll feel like I've died and gone to heaven," she chuckled. 

"Ok, babe," Ryan said with a smile in his voice. "I've got to get to the bar now, but I'll see you around six Tuesday night."

"All right, I'll see you then." 

Dani did a happy dance in the middle of the room before she went to take a shower. She had dreaded the day knowing all the work she had to do, but as far as she was concerned, the day had turned out golden. 

*  Dani thought Tuesday would never arrive. Ryan was now an almost constant fixture in her thoughts. More than one time she'd snapped herself out of a Ryan induced trance. Now that she had the work day behind her, she looked forward to getting ready for her date. 

After showering, she put on a pair of dark blue shorts and a plain white cotton top with capped sleeves. On her feet, she wore a pair of light blue sandles. She didn't see any reason to dress up as they weren't planning on going out for the evening and there was nothing wrong with Ryan seeing that she had nice legs. 

She took a look at herself in the full length mirror behind her bedroom door. The shorts showed off her rounded bottom without being obvious. They weren't too long or too short; the hem hitting a few inches past the bottom of her butt. She liked her body, but she also liked leaving some things to the imagination. Giving herself a nod of approval, she went to the living room to wait for Ryan. On his way over, Ryan had his own thoughts. He knew that he was falling for Dani, fast. She wasn't just beautiful on the outside, but the inside matched. He remembered how her eyes sparkled and danced with laughter when she talked about her family and their antics. It was only her parents, Crystal and her brother James and they were as close as his own family. Both of her parents was an only child and there wasn't any close extended family. Even so, they nurtured and looked after each other. He liked that. Family was extremely important to him and eventually, he wanted a big family of his own. 

Ryan knocked on the door and waited impatiently for Dani to answer. He smiled knowing he was hooked, but he didn't mind in the least. 

When Dani opened the door, she was, again, taken by how big he was.

She stepped aside to let him in as she said, "Hi, Ry."

Ryan noted the shorten version of his name and returned the greeting with a smile.

"Hi, baby." 

He entered the condo and Dani closed the door behind him. 

Setting their dinner on the dining room table, Ryan walked back to Dani, still seemingly stuck against the closed door. He took her hand and slowly pulled her away from it and enclosed her in his arms. Dani felt the warmth of his body and his even heartbeat as she pressed closer, inhaling the spicy scent of his cologne along with his own essence. 

Holding her closer, he felt the blood in his veins slowly ignite. He bent down and pressed his lips into the side of her neck as one hand gripped her hip, while the other squeezed the roundness of her butt. Dani shuttered as he pulled her up and into his now hardening cock.

A low growl escaped Ryan's throat when Dani rubbed against his straining arousal. She was trying to get more of him, even though it was impossible through the layers of clothing. Still, when she felt his hand on her hip join the other one on her buttocks to lift her up, she wrapped her legs around his hips thrusting harder against his full erection. 

"Fuck, baby," Ryan moaned, kissing her face, her eyelids, then scorching her sweet full lips. The next instant, his tongue was deep in the wet confines of her mouth, sucking her tongue, lightly biting it and then soothing it as he caressed her oral cavity's deepest regions. 

Dani was lost in a sea of moans and whorling desire. He pussy swelled dampening her panties, her entire body ached for Ryan's hands, his mouth, his.... 

She lost all thought as the situation spiralled out of control. Ryan reached down deep to find the brakes knowing that Dani wasn't ready for what he wanted so badly. He withdrew his tongue from her mouth and softly kissed her swollen lips while running his hands slowly up and down her spine. Finally, he brought both of them back to reality. 

Dani sighed and rolled her head onto his shoulder, still clasping him with her arms and legs. Ryan chuckle and moved to the sofa, with her in his arms. She still straddled his body when he sat down, not wanting to break the contact. 

Her face was turned into his neck, she was too embarrassed to look into his eyes. It made her face flush to think of what he must think of her behavior. She'd never, not ever, reacted that way to any guy. She knew deep down that what really bothered her was that she would not have been able to stop herself if Ryan had continued. She had wanted him inside her so desperately, she still did. 

Ryan ran his hand through her hair; grabbing a handful, he gently pulled her head back so that he could see her face. Lowering her eyes, Dani brought her head up from his shoulder. She was trying to hide, but Ryan wasn't having any of that. He wanted them to start their relationship the way they meant to go. 

Releasing her hair, he brought his hand down to rub her buttock, then kissed her forehead. 

"Look at me, baby," he entreated. Dani's chocolate brown eyes met Ryan's emerald green eyes, shadowed with his own obvious arousal. 

Once he had her attention he said, " I know this is going faster than either of us could imagine, but I think that we should talk about what we're feeling and what we want from each other." 

Dani nodded and he continued.

"I want a monogamous relationship. To make it clear, it means that we do not date anyone else; you are my woman, I'm your man." 

Seeing Dani's eyes widened, Ryan smiled and hugged her to his hard body for a moment. He then drew back and said to the unasked questions,

"Yeah, I'm already invested emotionally and I don't share. I'm not a jealous man, but I am possessive. My hands are the only ones that will be touching this hot little body," he said, leaning in to nip at her bottom lip. 

"Only my lips, my hands, my cock," he whispered with a growl. 

With the intimacy of the conversation and the proximity of his erection to her still tingling body, Dani damned the clothing that separated them. She wanted every inch of Ryan's manhood to take up residency in the place that she now considered it's home; deep within the confiens of her feminine counterpart. Looking into his beautiful eyes, she saw nothing but honesty there and felt she could be no less honest with him. 

"Ryan, this is going way too fast for me, but I can't deny the attraction. I don't want to date anyone else either. Right now, I can't even remember the name of the last guy I went out with or what he looked like," she said, feeling a bit self-conscious.

"I don't know where this is going, but I do know that I'm drawn to you in a way that I've never been drawn to any other man. It's only been three days and I was ready to.. ...well, you know what I was ready to do." 

Ryan smiled at the fact that she couldn't actually put it into words. 

Dani was a lamb in a world of wolves. It's a good thing he'd come long, he thought. He was intent on protecting her, even from himself. He didn't want to rush things either, but he knew that eventually they would be lovers. He was a grown man who knew what he wanted and that was more than just sex. He could wait, because he was going to make damn sure that Dani understood that it wasn't just physical. 

"Yes, I know what you wanted, baby," Ryan soothe. "It's what I want too, but I want a lot more."

"You don't understand, Ryan, I've...uh, I've never gone all the way with a guy. I know you're experienced and I don't want to... uh... disappoint you," she sighed, feeling foolish, like the only twenty four year old virgin in the world.

Surprised, Ryan said, "I knew that you were inexperience, I just didn't know you were that inexperienced. You didn't react to me, when we met, the way more experienced women have. For the record, that isn't a bad thing. As for disappointing me, you could never do that. I'm already practically salivating, wanting to get into your panties as it is." 

He grinned and his dimple winked at her. 

Dani smiled feeling more relaxed. 

"Let's do this," he said. "We'll take it easy, go on dates, get to know more about each other. Although I know we need to slow it down, I don't plan on treating you like one of the untouchables. We're much too attracted to each other for that to even be possible, but we'll go at your pace. If I do something that doesn't feel right or if you're not ready to go there, tell me and I'll stop. It might give me a stroke, but I will stop, ok?" 

Dani nodded her approval. 

"Yes, I can do that. I just don't want you to think that I'm a tease. I've been called that before. Some guys seem to think even kissing means you're ready for something more," she revealed.

"I'm not that kind of man, baby. No means no," Ryan assured her.

Dani leaned forward and dropped a soft kiss onto Ryan's lips, and said shyly, "Thank you for understanding, Ryan."

"You're welcome, my little tease," he whispered before pulling her in for a long hot kiss, while Dani's brain temporarily short circuited. 

When she recovered from the kiss, she grinned and hit him with a pillow. "I heard that!" 

*

The outside concert was a huge success. Ryan ended up suggesting Dani invite Crystal and Isaac along. Crystal jumped at the chance as she was more than eager to meet him. 

Crystal was a mixed of her father and mother, while Dani favored their mother. Her dark brown hair was cut short by design, she never liked spending much time fidgeting with long hair. She was two inches taller than her younger sister and about twenty pounds heavier. The additionally height suited her taller frame perfectly. 

Isaac was what Crystal called a worked in progress. They'd been dating for a few months, but they still have some hurtles to get over before they could move to the next step in their relationship. Issac at six feet one inch tall, solidly built with medium brown eyes, close cropped black hair and warm dark brown skin was a good looking man. Crystal wasn't sure that he was the perfect man for her, but she knew that he had potential. 

They all met up at Dani's apartment. 

Crystal's first sight of Ryan was accompanied by a whispered "Damn!" She looked around to see if Isaac heard her, but he was shaking Ryan's hand and hadn't noticed her slip up. 

Her next thought was, "He's white!" 

It wasn't lost of Crystal that her brain registered how hot he was before his race. Thinking on it, she decided that she might have to change her attitude towards interracial relationships. She could definitely see why her baby sister would want some of that. 

Crystal notice that throughout the day, Ryan was very attentive toward Dani and didn't seem to notice the furtive glances thrown his way by more than a few of the women. Frankly, some of them didn't even try to hide their interest. Dani also had her share of admires who didn't even receive a glance from her. She couldn't blame her sister, who wanted hamburger when they had steak. 

Silently chiding herself, Crystal lamented all her efforts to push Dani into relationships that, she now knew, weren't right for her. It wasn't the guys fault nor was it Dani's. Even if her sister couldn't describe exactly what she wanted in a man, in her heart she had known. She should have had more faith in Dani. It seemed that she hit the jackpot with Ryan. * Over the next couple of months the bond between Dani and Ryan grew even tighter. They went out on double dates and to events with friends, all of whom accepted them as a couple. Eventually, they exchanged keys to each other's home. Ryan was the first to offer his. He wanted her to be as comfortable in his home as she was in her own. She thought it only fair to reciprocate, but knew she would not abuse the privilege nor the trust Ryan placed in her. 

Now that the flood gates were opened, Dani became more comfortable exploring her sexuality with Ryan. Although they didn't have intercourse, Ryan did keep her satisfied in the most amazing ways. He touched, kiss and licked every inch of her body, while she pleasured him in ways that made her face flame with heat. 

Dani started on birth control pills two weeks after having the relationship talk with Ryan, but she wasn't sure about having intercourse so soon without a condom. The fact was, she didn't want anything between her and Ryan when they had intercourse the first, second or one hundredth time. She knew it wouldn't be risky, he'd shared his written medical history and he always used condoms, even his first time. 

Even though the thought intrigued her, Dani wasn't looking to get pregnant as yet. So, during her initial visit she asked her doctor how long she should wait after starting on birth control. She'd been shy about asking, knowing that she was ready for it to happen and she was sure that her eagerness was evident to the doctor. 

James McClaren was her gynecologist of long standing, but that didn't keep her from feeling embarrassed about discussing sex with him. He was very understanding and made it as easy for her as possible. He suggested that she wait until the end of the second course of birth control pills before engaging in intercourse without a condom, but expressed the importance of safe sex. 

Dani could wait. Barely.

* 

By the end of their third month together, Dani was on good terms with a few of the women in Ryan's circle. Most of them were close to each other and went on regular girlfriend outings, just as the men had their guy time together for sports and poker. 

Dani didn't know any of them extremely well, but she and Jessica spent more time together than the others. Jessica was Wheeler's girlfriend, she and Dani hit it off at first sight. They enjoyed having lunch together and they talked on the phone regularly. Jessica was only a year older and was independent, outgoing with a great sense of humor. All of Ryan's friends were characters, especially Wheeler.

Jessica at five feet four inches tall, with short brown hair, brown eyes and 34B breasts was not Wheeler's typical type, which was tall, blonde and busty. Very busty. But, when he took Ryan's advice and looked beyond the double D's he was accustom to, he found a woman who meant more to him than he would have imagined. 

Ryan took every care to make sure that Dani was integrated into his life and that included introducing her to his friends. She appreciated his efforts and Jessica's in acquainting her with their circle of women friends. Deep down, she'd been afraid that some of his friends might object to her being black. While she didn't know what they said in private, they seemed open and engaging to her personally. Frankly, she couldn't see Ryan having any other type of friends. There were still more to meet, but she already felt like an integral part of Ryan's life. 

*

Dani was preparing dinner when Ryan called to say he was just leaving the bar and would be at her place in about thirty minutes. He asked if she needed him to pick up anything from the store. She assured him that she had everything well in hand with the only thing missing was his sexy self. 

Ryan chuckled, liking the fact that Dani had lost most of her shyness where he was concerned. She'd become flirtatious and sometimes aggressive in their loving making. Even though they still hadn't engaged in intercourse, there was no doubt in either of their minds that they were making love. He knew that it wouldn't be long before Dani would be all his.

A short while later, the meal was finished and the table was set. Dani took the opportunity to take a quick shower, put on a pair of white-wash demin jeans and a red short sleeved knit pullover shirt. She brushed her hair back into a ponytail and put on a thin layer of lip gloss. She was returning to the kitchen when she heard the key in the lock. 




Ryan Ch. 03



Upon seeing her, Ryan opened his arms and said theatrically, "Honey, I'm home!" 

Without a word, Dani rushed into his arms, backing him up against the door and giving him a long deep kiss. Ryan picked her up by her firm buttocks as she wrapped her legs around his hips. Without relinquishing the lip lock, he turned and pinned her to the door. 

Ryan continued his oral salutations with his tongue sliding into her mouth. He licked inside her lips and sucked on her tongue, drawing a long drawn out groan from Dani who squirmed as he delved into the warmth of her mouth. Grinding herself against him, she couldn't get close enough, couldn't taste enough of this man. 

Ryan's mouth slid down to her neck as he fought for control. She was so damn hot, so tuned in to his desire that he was on the brink of coming. Dani's hand slipped down and stroked Ryan's growing erection through his jeans. He grunted, then pulled her hand away and kissed her palm.

He held her in his arms taking note of her droopy eye lids and the sound of her labored breathing, a testament to her arousal. Leaning forward, he touched his forehead to hers trying to bring his own breathing under control. It was long minutes before the tightness in his groin eased and the risk of shooting his load in his briefs passed. 

Once he was under control, Ryan chuckled and smacked her on her luscious ass. 

"Ouch, that hurt, " Dani complained, but she couldn't hide the shuttered that zinged through her body. Any touch from Ryan made her nerve endings go haywire. The man was a sexy beast. 

"You loved it, admit it," Ryan teased as he set her back down on her feet, still holding her body pressed to his. Before she could answer, he gave consideration to another thought. "Hmmm, I might have to give you a real spanking in the near future. Add a little heat to these buns," he said squeezing her butt. 

"Umm, sounds yummy. Do I get to spank you too?"

"Baby, you would break your delicate little hand trying to spank my hard ass. It won't be nearly as much fun as I'll have spanking you and then soothing your sweet caramel cakes."

"Caramel cakes, huh? Cakes are for eating, you know."

"Oh, make no mistake about it baby, there will be plenty of eating and licking and....

He never got to finish because Dani clapped her hand over his mouth and then went off in peels of laughter with Ryan joining her. When the laughter died down, she quickly kissed Ryan and wiggled out of his grasp. Reluctantly, he backed up allowing her to walk past him. 

As they headed to the dining room, On cue, Ryan's stomach started to growl. Dani smiled at him and gave his belly a little pat. 

"That's your stomach begging for food," she said with a grin. 

"It has a right since I worked through lunch."

"Ryan," Dani said exasperated, "how can it be that you didn't eat lunch? For Pete's sake, you own a sports bar." 

Shaking her head, she finished setting the table. 

After sitting down, Ryan replied.

"It's easy, babe. I was working on the books and didn't realize how much time had passed. Everyone knows not to bother me when I'm going over the accounts, except in the case of an emergency. When I realized how late it was, it was nearly time for me to leave any way. So here I am with a stomach that's talking to me and a sexy woman who thinks I'm going to waste away from one missed meal," he teased. 

Dani went over and kissed the top of his head while leaning into his big body. "Ok, I realize I'm being the mother hen that I always accuse Crystal of being. But I care about you and I get to nag you about stuff like eating regularly. "

"I care about you too, baby and I love that you're looking out for me," he said as she sat down next to him. 

As they stared into each other's eyes, Ryan brought her hand to his lips and kissed the back. Dani felt her next breath leave her body on a wispy sigh. However, the moment was lost when Ryan's stomach growled again. They both looked surprised and then laughed. With the mood broken, they turned their attention to the meal, cloaked in the happiness of what felt like domestic bliss. 

It was a delicious meal of steak and roasted root vegetables with home-made dinner rolls. Dani wasn't a stranger to cooking, she knew how to cook even before she got out on her own. Growing up, many hours were spent helping her mother in the kitchen and thanks to her sweet tooth, she'd paid special attention to baking as well. Her grandma Carter's decadent chocolate lava cake was a family favorite which she made for Ryan. 

"Ummm," Ryan groaned as he took the first bite of the dessert.

"Baby, this is delicious. Whenever I've had a bad day, make this for me and I assure you I'll be a happy man," he vowed. 

"I'm glad you like it. I'd love to make it for you again and I won't even wait until you've had a bad day," Dani said with a warm smile.

As great as the meal was, it was not the end of the evening's enjoyments. Dani and Ryan spent a good deal of time feasting on each other on the sofa before they went to bed and continued their exploration of each other's body. * "Aww, come on Crystal," Dani pleaded, "it's only shopping with me and a couple of Ryan's friends." "Yeah, yeah Dani, but I don't know these people. What is he doing with women friends anyway," Crystal asked, slightly perturbed. "They're the women of his male friends, Wheeler and Grant," Dani explained patiently.

"Jessica is Wheeler's girlfriend. Monica is Jessica's sister and Grant's wife. They're bringing along their friend Karen. You can't get to know people until you meet them, so that's no excuse. Besides, you'd be helping me out," Dani reasoned. 

"This is the perfect way to get to know them better and build our friendship. It's one day and you don't have to make a major commitment to them. It's important to me Crystal," Dani said with a theatrical sigh, knowing she was laying it on pretty heavily. 

" Ok, ok, I'll do it, Crystal capitulated. 

"You know I'm not much of a people person, but for your sake I'll make the effort. Unless one of them says something I don't like, then all bets are off," she warned. 

"Thanks Crystal. I'll hold you to being on your best behavior. Although Jessica and I are pretty friendly, I don't know Monica as well and I don't know Karen at all, so I need a little support. I want to make the effort because they're Ryan's friends and I'm going to see a lot of them and what better way to really get to know them than away from the guys. 

"Huh! I didn't say best behavior. Hell, I don't even know what my best behavior would be," Crystal laughed. "As long as there is no bloodshed, I'll be happy," Dani teased. 

"Ok, Dani. I'll see you at ten tomorrow morning."

"Good. Thanks again Crystal, bye." *  True to her word, Crystal was on time.

Dani was trying to get dressed while talking to Ryan on the phone. Hearing the doorbell ring, she hopped to the door, trying to put on her shoe while holding the cordless phone between her head and shoulder. She made it to the door and opened it to let Crystal in, nodding to her in greeting.  "What should I wear?" she asked Ryan. 

Crystal sat down on the sofa smiling at Dani as she finally got her shoe on. She was unabashly listening in on the conversation and was able to follow a bit of it even without hearing the other side. What she missed, she figured Dani would fill in later.  "Yes," she heard Dani say. "What time will you be home?"  Dani waited for Ryan to answer, then said, " Ok. I'll be back before then. I'm making dinner tonight." 

She laughed at something he said and then told him, "You'll just have to wait. You are so bad Ryan."

Dani laughed again, then paused for his response. "Ok, baby. I miss you too. See you later, bye."

Dani felt flushed after talking to Ryan. That man could get her hot just with words and he didn't mind doing it over the phone. Smiling, she turned to see Crystal looking at her with a raised eyebrow, waiting for an explanation. 

"Oh, no Crystal, I am not telling you what Ryan said." Fanning herself, Dani sat down, but she couldn't keep the smile off of her face. 

"Whatever he said sure got you hot. You sure there isn't something you want to tell your big sister? We've done the facts of life talk already, but you might need a little refresher course," Crystal suggested. 

"Thanks a lot Crystal, but I'm in the master class with Ryan. Oh, my God, if you only knew!" Dani groaned then slapped her hand over her mouth as she looked at Crystal wide eyed. 

"Yeah, I bet. That man is a walking wet dream. Well, if you like that type," Crystal said with a straight face.

When she saw Dani's incredulous expression, Crystal serious demeanor gave way to a gut wrenching laugh. "Shit, who wouldn't like that type. I have to admit that as much as I love me some chocolate, that white boy is damn fine." 

Dani just shook her head, got her purse off the breakfast bar and dragged Crystal, who was still laughing, out of the house. Crystal offered to drive and Dani accepted reluctantly knowing that she'd have to curb her sister's tendency to speed. 

They were meeting the women at The International Plaza. There were a ton of stores and restaurants in the complex. They could do all the shopping they wanted and go to lunch, all without having to fight traffic. 

Dani particularly wanted to go to Victoria's Secret. She'd shopped there a couple of times in the past months replacing underwear that Ryan tore while trying to rid her out of them. Sometimes the man just didn't have any patience. 

He offered to pay for them, going so far as to say that he'd go with her to pick them out. She almost hyperventilated thinking of Ryan going with her to buy sexy underwear. She could imagine herself having an orgasm while he caressed the crotch while asking her opinion or the opinion of the salesperson. The man was bad, bad, bad.

She declined the offer, but not for that reason. The thing was, she didn't want to take the money because, frankly, she was buying them for him. He loved how she looked in sexy lingerie, not that she kept them on for very long. Before she met him, she was content with basic underwear, feminine, but not particularly sexy. This was sort of like a gift for him, one with fringe benefits for her. 

The roll of the car had lulled Dani into a daydream. When she came out of it Crystal was pulling into the parking lot. Their first stop was Sephora's as most of them wanted to buy make-up and skin care products. The place was crowded, but they managed to find a parking space fairly close to the store.

Before they got out of the car, Crystal said, "Oh, there was something I wanted to ask about your phone call with Ryan. You asked him something about what you should wear, are you going somewhere special?"

Dani grimaced a bit, then answered.

"His folks are having a get dinner," she said with a little apprehension. "I'll be meeting his entire immediate family and their significant others this coming Saturday. I'm kinda nervous about the whole thing. Meeting the family is suppose to be a big deal, isn't it?" 

"Yep, especially with a guy like Ryan who's very close to his family. It's showing them that he's serious about you. I'm sure they're curious about you anyway, the same as Mom and Dad would be curious about him, if they knew about the two of you." 

Seeing Dani's anxious expression Crystal said, 

"Don't get your britches in a bunch about it, the guy is crazy about you. If his family is anything like him, they're going to think you're great too. It's a good thing, Dani." 

"From your mouth to Martha Stewart's ear. I just hope they like me," Dani sighed. "When they were picturing a partner for Ryan I'm sure it wasn't a black woman. Race doesn't matter to Ryan and he said his family doesn't care about that either. I just have to trust his judgment." 

"Well, I'm glad you've talked about that, but has he actually told them that you're black?" Crystal asked.

"Yeah, but I know people can say they're not prejudiced, until it comes to a member of their own family. Ryan means so much to me, I don't want anything to mess this up. Girlfriends can come and go, but your family is always your family," Dani said. 

"You're in love with him, aren't you," Crystal asked, quietly.

Looking Crystal straight in the eye, Dani smiled and said, 

"Yeah, I am. I don't think I could of hidden that from a blind man. He is the most incredible man and I think I knew it would be like this, at least for me, from the first time I saw him. I think he loves me too, although he hasn't said it." 

"Well, hells bells, Sis, you finally got your man and without any help from me. Hmm, I'm kind of put out about that. All that time I spent trying to find you the perfect man and you find him at Lowes. Who the hell would believed a story like that?" she chuckled. 

"Not me. But, that was before I met Ryan," Dani replied with a sigh. 

*

The ladies were waiting for them just inside of the store. Monica and Jessica smiled as they entered, but the other woman, who Dani assumed was Karen, was tapping her foot impatiently. 

"Have you guys been waiting long," Dani asked with a little concern.

"Oh, no," Jessica assured her.

"We've only been here a couple of minutes. Besides, you're not late," she said checking her watch, "you're actually a few minutes early." 

By the way," she said turning to her friend, " Dani, Crystal meet our friend Karen Wentworth. Karen meet Danielle Carter and her sister Crystal."

"Hi Karen, pleased to meet you," Dani said holding out her hand. Karen hesitated a second before offering Dani a stilted smile and a tepid hand shake. 

"Likewise, I'm sure," she said in an overly proper voice, then reached out to shake Crystal's hand giving her a genuine smile. 

"Ok. It's not because I'm black," Dani thought. "She seems to like Crystal. How could she have an attitude towards me when she doesn't know me from Eve? Something just doesn't feel right about this."

Dani hadn't a clue what the woman's problem was, but she'd get to the bottom of it sooner or later. Right now just wasn't the time or place. 

The women spent the next six hours power shopping. They went to the same stores at times, at other times they split up and agreed to meet up somewhere central at a specific time. 

They were all bag heavy and tired when they finished their marathon store hopping spree. Happy with their purchases, they took them to the cars, then went back into the mall to have a leisurely lunch. 

Although Dani caught Karen giving her a strange look once or twice, her mood improved somewhat, but not enough in Dani's mind. 

The women decided to eat lunch at the Brio Tuscan Grill. After being seated by the hostess, she told them about the specials and took their drink orders. Monica and Karen choose white wine, while the others opted for sweet tea. Once the hostess left to fill their orders, they perused the menu and decided on their meal choices. 

Before they could get a good conversation going, the waitress appeared with the drinks and was given their lunch orders. 

The conversation was casual with the talk centering first on their purchases, their families and their likes and dislikes, not in any particular order. They all told stories about growing up and dating for the first time. Both Jessica and Monica told hilarious stories, but Karen had to be cajoled by Jessica into taking part in the conversation. Dani didn't think it was because Karen was shy. 

Even Crystal was talkative which amazed Dani. Her sister was practically badgered into coming, but she looked to be having a great time. Crystal said she wasn't a people person, but she was really open and friendly with people she liked. It was obvious that she liked Jessica and Monica. 

Dani noticed that Crystal wasn't as talkative with Karen, although Karen did try to engage her in conversation. She thought Crystal might have sensed the woman's attitude towards her. With other women, Crystal rarely missed a trick. 

It was close to the end of the meal when the conversation turned to the man/woman relationship paradigm. It was then that Karen, out of the blue, said, "I heard from Caroline and she's coming back home soon."

There was a small smile on her thin lips which was directed towards Dani. 

Jessica and Monica's eyes cut sharply to Dani. Seeing no reaction from Dani, Jessica turned to Karen and asked, "When did you talk to her?"

Karen, now having everyone's attention, savored the moment before she answered. 

"Yesterday morning. She's nearing the end of her overseas contract and should be transferred back here in a few weeks. It's been quite a while and she's looking forward to renewing old friendships."

With a sly smile, she continued. 

"She asked about Ryan. I told her he's still playing the field."

There was an awkward pause with Karen practically grinning at Dani who thought she'd turned into some kind of mad hyena. She wasn't going to take the bait as she caught on to the fact that Karen was talking about Caroline Jameson, Ryan's ex-girlfriend. 

Dani didn't like public scenes and decided to just let it ride.

However, Crystal wasn't of the same mind. She didn't know who Caroline was, but she knew by the look on Dani's face that she did. 

"Who the hell is Caroline?" Crystal asked, her tone making it clear that somebody had better get to talking. 

Karen smiled and offered,

"Caroline is Caroline Jameson, my best friend. She and Ryan are in love, but broke up because of a misunderstanding. So, she took a job overseas to let things off."

She ended the explanation with a stare at Dani. 

Crystal looked from Dani back to Karen before saying anything. She knew that Karen was deliberately trying to bait her sister and she wasn't having any of it. 

" So, let me get this straight. Your friend use to date Ryan, then he kicked her to the curb, for whatever reason, and she skipped town to hide her humiliation."

Karen opened her mouth ready to refute that statement, when Crystal raised her hand, palm forward, to stop her. 

"Save it," Crystal said. "There is no way in hell you're going to convince me that some broad just up and left that fine ass man because of some misunderstanding."

Karen sank back into her seat glowering at Crystal.

Staring back, Crystal said, "After licking her wounds in England for a while she's coming back to try to stake a claim on him again. The man wouldn't have dumped her if he wanted her, even you should be able to see that, Karen. Now you're here trying to stir up shit."

Dani tried to intervene, but Crystal was on a roll. "Crystal, it's ok, I'm not... 

"No! No, Dani," Crystal said trying to calm her growing anger. 

"This bitch has been brewing her crap all day. I knew something was up with the way she was looking at you when she thought no one was watching. She brought this up, so we might as well get the book read and close out this chapter."

Karen's smile was long gone and she was now squirming in her seat. Both Jessica and Monica were frowning at her, letting her know that they didn't appreciate her treachery. After the tongue lashing from Crystal, Karen knew it was too late to do anything about the predicament that she'd gotten herself into. 

Neither Jessica or Monica could believe that Karen was trying to blind side Dani like that. They knew she was upset that Caroline got hurt, but they thought she and Caroline were over this thing with Ryan, at least that's what Karen led the sisters to believe. 

They knew that Ryan wasn't playing the field. Both Wheeler and Grant said that Ryan was crazy about Dani. They'd trust their men over Karen any day. Besides, they'd seen with their own eyes how much he cared for Dani.

Red faced and still misguided, Karen tried to save face and mustered up courage to voice her outrage. 




Ryan Ch. 03



"Wait a minute! You can't talk about Caroline like that. She and Ryan were perfect together. They've known each other since they were kids. Besides, Ryan hasn't been in a serious relationship since he broke up with Caroline. He hasn't even dated the same woman for more than a few months. It's just a matter of time before he realizes that Caroline is the one he wants," she said looking pointedly at Dani.

"Bitch, are you crazy," Crystal retorted. "Why do you care? It seems to me that you should have been spending more time paying attention to your own personal life than sticking your nose into something that isn't any of your business."

Before Karen could respond, Monica asked incredulously, "Have you been keeping tabs on Ryan and reporting back to Caroline all this time?"

The guilty look on Karen's face was answer enough. 

"How could you Karen! Ryan hasn't given the slightest indication that he wanted to rekindle his relationship with Caroline. She's been gone two years and he hasn't made any attempt to contact her. I thought I knew you. I just can't believe you did this."

Karen was starting to tear up. 

"She's my best friend," she cried, "You know how she was after Ryan broke up with her. She just thought that once he had time to think about things, once he had time to miss her, he would change his mind. I only tried to do what I could to help her."

"Girl, you've got more problems than your friend Caroline," Crystal stated. 

Jessica turned to Dani and said, "I'm so sorry about this Dani. If I had known what Karen was up to I wouldn't have invited her to join us. 

Shocked, Karen said in an anguished voice, "Jessica!"

"I'm sorry Karen, but that was pretty low. Ryan is a grown man who's perfectly capable of making his own decisions, which I believe he did when he broke up with Caroline. You can't fix Caroline's life. She needs to move on. I might not have known what you were up to, but I do know this, if you hurt Dani, Ryan will make you very, very sorry."

Everybody suddenly realized how quiet Dani was. 

"Are you ok, Sis," Crystal asked, concerned. 

Dani smiled slightly, amused at the sudden attention.

"I tried to tell you I was fine, but you went all Madea on her. I knew about Caroline and I know why Ryan broke up with her. Karen is wasting her time, but it's her time to waste. Ryan is never going back to her, even if I'm not in the picture." 

Karen bowed her head knowing she took a gamble and lost. Because of her stupidity she might well lose two of her good friends, Jessica and Monica. 

* 

Once Dani got home and Crystal left, she was able to think about what Karen tried to do.

While she thought it was admirable that Karen wanted to help her friend, she'd step over the boundaries by fostering hope for Caroline when there was no chance that Ryan would reconcile with her. Ryan was lost to her, not because of another woman, but because of his own feelings. Nothing was going to change that. 

The past was the past and Dani saw no reason to burden Ryan with this little bit of drama. 

*

Dani was making herself comfortable at Ryan's place. In fact, she was spending a lot of time at his house, her clothes in his closet attested to that. Ryan called earlier to say that he was working late giving her more than enough time to take a long warm bubble bath and put on something more comfortable than her work clothes. 

After the bath, she wrapped herself in a big fluffy blue towel and went into the bedroom, but stopped dead in her tracks. Ryan was lying on the bed dressed in jeans and a black polo shirt. He was on his side, with his hand propping up his head as he grinned at her. 

He'd arrived while she was in the shower. Hearing the sound of running water, he walked into the bathroom, peeped into the shower area and saw her sliding the loofah over her sexy body. His imagination kicked in as he thought of the warm water slooshing over her silky brown skin as he slid his hands over her wet slippery flesh. His palms itched and his cock twitched as he restrained himself from doing just that. 

"I thought you were working until eight tonight," Dani said, smiling back at him. 

"Didn't need to be there. Micah came by and relieved me. He'd finished his meeting downtown and wasn't ready to call it a day, so here I am," he explained. 

Sitting up on the edge of the bed, Ryan pulled Dani to him. 

He loosened her death grip on the towel and pulled it from her body. Dani heard his intake of breath as he looked at her, his eyes touching all the curves as he felt the warmth radiating from her moist body. 

Groaning, he pressed his face into the valley between her firm breasts, taking in the light fresh scent of her body wash and the heat of her beginning arousal. No matter how many times he saw her naked, touched her sweet body, it was always the same exquisite pleasure.

He turned his head and kissed the right nipple, then swiped it with a broad stroke of his tongue. Dani's hands flitted through his short hair, her nails scraping his scalp as her intimate recesses started to tingle. She signed when she felt his thick middle finger slip into her tight wetness, the slight roughness making her walls constrict. 

Ryan stroked in and out, slowly at first, then increased the pace as her vaginal fluids lubricated his finger. By the time he inserted a second finger, Dani was pulling at his hair, groaning in need. With his left hand holding her ass tightly, he slotted his index and middle fingers into her now spasming pussy, picking up the pace as her desire grew. 

Dani panted his name over and over, as he delved faster into her burning vagina. Within minutes, she threw back her head and screamed out her orgasm, her warm cream flowing into his palm. 

Her legs felt like jelly, but Ryan held her and gently pulled her down to the bed. Still panting with her eyes closed, Dani felt Ryan ease off the bed. She heard the rustling of clothing and knew what he was doing. In her mind's eyes she could see the hard planes of his body and the jutting thickness of his cock.

Ryan head was spinning with desire as he quickly undressed. Every time he touched Dani, it was becoming harder to stop. Although he always orgasmed during their love play, he wanted more, he wanted to feel his dick deep in the slick haven of her sweet body where he could spilled his seed.

He knew from the beginning that waiting would be difficult and that had proven to be true. But despite what he wanted, he needed her to trust him to keep his promise to go at her pace. Whatever that would take, he'd do it, as long as she wanted that way, he would do it. 

He knew that she wanted him bareback. Just the though of nothing between them heightened his arousal and made waiting even more difficult. Looking down at her gloriously naked body, he felt desire sweep through his entire body and felt a burp of pre-cum from his rigid cock and the tightening of his abdominal muscles.

Dani opened her eyes as she felt Ryan's weight on the bed. She continued to watch him as she moved to the center of the bed, entralled by his arousal. His green eyes were so dark with desire that they almost looked black. She smiled as he opened her trembling legs and crawled his big body between her thighs settling into the cradle of her sweet curvy body. 

With a sigh, he held her head in his hands and rained soft kisses all over her face. Dani arched her back and moaned as he bit and licked her lips until they were swollen. While he devoured her with his oral ministrations, the head of his long cock rubbed against the small patch of fine hair on her neatly trimmed mons. 

Dani arched and groaned deeply.

Ryan, momentarily having his fill of her lips, slid down to her full breasts, taking a hard nipple into the hot interior of his mouth. He teased the sweet bud with the tip of his tongue, rasping it with each stroke. Dani 's back bowed as she luxuriated in the pleasure zinging down from her breast to her throbbing core. 

Ryan continued to ravage her plump breasts, but she wanted something more. With her hands on his shoulders, she urged him down the length of her body, pushing him closer to the source of the fire that inflamed her entire body. On the way down, he stopped to briefly flick his tongue in search of her deep belly button, licking and sucking before moving on. In a rush of pleasure her pussy throbbed and gushed its fragrant juices. 

By the time his lips brushed the tuft of soft hair, Dani was almost delirious with desire for her man. No one had ever touched her the way Ryan did. He drove her wild with the merest touch and claimed her body and soul. She didn't know what power he held over her, but she understood that it was the sweetest pleasure she could ever know.

Dani's mind melted, as did her body when his mouth slid down to her opening and her rich nectar flooded his tongue. He groan and slurped as he devoured the delicious banquet set before him, growling his enjoyment. Then his eyes caught hers as she watched and she knew in that moment that this would be the night. 

"Ryannnnn," Dani groaned on the threshold of a searing orgasm. She needed that release, but at the same time she wanted it to go on and on. But it was too late for waiting, the fine tentacles of burning heat were crawling up the walls of her pussy.

"Oh, fuck, baby! Oh, yessss.... Right there, right there.. Oh, my godddddddd!" she screamed as Ryan took her clit in his mouth and suck down hard, hurling her into into a splintering roaring climax.

Dani's orgasm rolled over her in huge waves as Ryan alternately teased her clit and suck at her opening, swallowing her creamy goodness as if it were a lifeline. Just as she thought it was over, her orgasm built again, but this time it rocked her into oblivion. 

Long minutes later, when Dani became aware of her surroundings again, Ryan was still licking her pussy and her inner thighs. Her breathing was far from normal, but at least she could catch a breath without feeling she was losing consciousness.

She sighed and stroked his head. 

Looking up at her, he flicked her clit with his tongue and watched her eyes flutter close then open again as she arched her body into his glistening lips. Giving her clit a final nip and a kiss, he smiled at her, licking his wet lips. 

Returning his smile, Dani pulled slightly on his hair and whispered his name. 

"Ryan."

His face grew suddenly hard with need. 

Ryan pulled up onto his knees, with his thighs supporting the back of hers as he held her open to his gaze. Reaching down he dipped his thumb into her pussy, coating it with her pearl essence. As Dani watched, he licked the juices off of his thumb and grinned when her eyes widen. 

Leaning over her, he bowed his head and softly kissed her, pushing his tongue into her mouth, letting her taste the flavor of her arousal. Dani caught his tongue with her lips and lightly sucked, then explored the interior of his mouth. She hummed as she shared the tang of her desire with him. 

As they continued to kiss and stroke each other, the heat began to rise again. Dani looked up at Ryan and said the words he'd been waiting to hear.

"Come inside me, Ryan," she begged. 

Ryan breathed a deep sigh and pressed his forehead onto hers as his heart started to hammer. His fingers once again coaxed her burning pussy into giving up it's silky fluids. When he heard her crying out for completion, he rubbed the head of his cock against her opening sliding it up and down while adding his pre-cum to her lubricating juices. 

Dani arched her back as she locked her arms around his neck, gasping for each breath as she ran her hands through his hair. Her entire body was on fire, even her fingers felt like the nerve endings were over stimulated. 

Ryan, pressed his cock head into Dani hot pussy, straining from the effort not to take her in one thrust. When the head popped in, he heard the sharp intake of her breath and felt the tightening of her body as he breached the fortress of her virginity. He stopped to let her get accustomed to his hardness and width. Within seconds, Dani was urging him for more, wrapping her legs around him. 

Rocking his hips slowly, Ryan slid more and more of his cock along Dani's tight channel. He started a rhythm that would allow a few inches of his shaft to slide in and out rapidly until her body lost some of it's tension. There was little pain, however, the pressure from the girth of his shaft was considerable. She arched her back, her bottom lip trembling slightly. 

Pulling his head down to kiss him, she whispered, "Mine." 

Ryan groaned at Dani's possessiveness, but remained still a few more seconds before slowly sliding his cock in and out of her soft willing body. He began the long deep strokes, patiently accustoming her to his size. Soon his movement flowed into an increasingly smooth rhythm, her fluids pouring out to aid the delicious ride to fulfillment. 

Ryan looped his arms under hers at her shoulders, as Dani tightened her legs around his hips. With their mouths opened and searching, their breaths fanned the fires of desire and their approaching orgasm sent shivers up their spine. 

He felt Dani's pussy clasp his cock more firmly in fluttering waves, her breathing becoming more erratic. Ryan was now pounding into her, every stroke hitting her clit, searing it, burning the nerve endings with aching pleasure. He reached the height of his own pleasure when he felt his balls draw up, his lower back stiffened and his body jerked as his hot sperm rushed through his shaft and spewed out into Dani's quaking body. 

Dani screamed out in joy, her body jerking and throbbing in wave after wave of immeasurable rapture. The pulsing walls of her pussy clutched Ryan's spurting organ sending him shouting into the throes of glorious ecstasy. 

The passage of time became meaningless as they floated through the warm haze of their climax, their senses attuned only to each other. When the rush of pleasure eased, they found themselves smiling in the wake of sexual fulfillment. Ryan let out a heart felt, "Damn!" While Dani stroked his moist shoulders and back and was engulf in the earthy scent of their lovemaking. 

"Fuck, baby, that was more than worth the wait," he declared, withdrawing his softening cock from her flushed body before rolling onto his back and pulling her close to him. 

Dani stretched, noting the soreness in her body, but it was a good soreness. She rubbed herself against Ryan, her body still trembling with the after shocks of the most sensual experience that she'd ever had. 

"Oh, yeah. If I had known it would be that good, I would have jumped your bones the minute that I saw you," Dani teased with an impish grin. 

Ryan rolled back on top of her, sucked her neck, then licked it. 

Looking into her eyes, he confessed, "I think my dick has been hard since the moment I saw you." 

"Ummm, baby," she sighed, reaching down to stroke his cock back to fullness.

"How soon can we do it again?" 

Ryan eyes darkened as he lowered his head, "Are you sure you're ready for more?"

Dani nodded and pulled his head down to hers.



Ryan Ch. 04



Dani burrowed out from under the covers with the realization that she was not in her home. She was momentarily confused until her head cleared and memory returned.

She was at Ryan's house, in Ryan's huge bed. 

This wasn't the first time she'd slept over, but what happened last night threw her for a loop. After the second round of earth shattering love making, Ryan called for delivery from Pappas Greek Restaurant and they spent the hours afterward languishing in their new found intimacy. 

Both of them were nearly insatiable, but Ryan was considerate of her recent virginal status. Dani could still feel the soreness, a souvenir of his thorough mastery of her feminine parts. Just thinking of Ryan produced an aching sting of desire. As she reached down sliding a finger into her swollen vagina, Ryan stepped out of the bathroom, naked. 

When she caught sight of him, her finger stopped in mid- stroke, still deep within her humid core. 

Walking over to the bed, Ryan pulled back the spread and sat down.

"Don't stop on my account," he said huskily.

Keeping her eyes on him as he watched, Dani resumed massaging her pussy, with one and then two fingers. Her breath became labored as Ryan green eyes darkened with desire. She shuddered with growing pleasure wanting him to taste her arousal. For long minutes, she observed him from under the cover of hooded eyes, exploring her sex for his pleasure as well as her own. 

Ryan sat mesmerized as Dani masturbated, observing closely the slide of her fingers into the slippery well of her heated body. The thick scent of sex assailed his nostrils igniting his lust into overdrive. Quickly, he gave up being a spectator and quickly pulled her moist fingers out of her body, bringing them to his mouth. Achingly, he sucked them one at a time as he eyed her languid expression. Her mouth was slightly opened as she stared at him in a fog of desire.

Through a haze of lust, Ryan heard a deep groan escape Dani's throat as she bit her lower lip. In quick order, he knelt between her thighs, spreading them to accommodate his body. Leaning forward, he brushed his lips against hers while she drowned in the green fire of his deep emerald gaze. 

Against her lips he whispered, "I love you, baby. I love the way you look....feel.... smell and taste. Each word was punctuated by a kiss. "I love your heart and all the little things that make you who you are. You are part of my soul and I can't live without you."

Sucking in her breath, Dani almost forgot to breathe. She knew even without the words that he loved her, but hearing them spoken with such conviction wrapped him more firmly around her heart. Without warning, she felt the prick of tears behind her eyes which flooded her face as she wrapped her arms around his neck. With her body, she gently urged Ryan onto his back, ending with her body on top of his. 

Her face was buried in his neck as she sobbed, "I love you. I love you so much, Ryan." 

Ryan, whose heart was in his throat at the unexpected tears, gave a sigh of relief when he realized that the tears were those of joy. As he held Dani and whispered more words of love, his fingers slowly caressed her back. 

She was still crying softly when Ryan rolled her onto her back. Spreading her thighs, he teased the little bud at the apex of her sex with his thumb before bringing her to a shattering climax with his lips and tongue. 

When Dani's panting subsided she turned the tables, easing Ryan on to his back again and taking his cock in her hands. Lying between his muscular thighs, she swept the underside of his rod with long strokes of her tongue, from the base to under the rim. When she reached the rim, she wiggled her tongue under it extracting a drawn out moan from him. He wrapped her hair around his hand, but allowed her to set the pace for the time being.

Dani breathed in deeply, becoming heady with the musky scent of her man. Without warning she engulfed the head of his cock, sucking and stroking the large slit with her tongue, tasting the essence of salty sweet pre-cum. As she continued to work the head, her hand slithered up and down the thick shaft. Eventually, her mouth dipped down to his balls, rolling them in the steamy cavern of her wet orifice, sucking and lashing them with her tongue until he was grunting in pleasure.

Sliding her tongue up the shaft and back to his cock head, Dani took it fully into her mouth again, sucking in a bobbing motion, taking in as much as she could, until the head hit the back of her throat. She hastily pulled back before her gag reflex engaged, once more sucking the bulbous crown.

Ryan's cock was too big to take down her throat, but that hardly mattered when she was working him like a pro, her lips firmly massaging his hard length. When his orgasm began, he tightened the hold on her head, arched his back and with a strangled groan shot his load. 

"Oh, shit!"

"Fuck...yeah, yeah, baby..... Oh fuck, yeahhhhhh!" he cried out as shot after shot of his hot jizz flooded Dani's mouth. 

Dani quickly pulled back so that the head of his cock was just inside her mouth, swallowing as fast as she could. As she ran her tongue around the mushroom top, she savored the flavor of his warm essence and continued to alternately suck and run her tongue around the circumference of the fat gland. She indulged her desire until Ryan expended the last spurts of semen and his body slowly lost it rigidity. It took a while longer for him to release her hair from his tight grip. 

In the aftermath, he gently massaged her scalp as his breathing slowly returned to normal. Eventually, he pulled Dani up into his arms and kissed her forehead as she settled her head on his shoulder. Sated, they slipped gently into slumber once again. 

* 

As the days passed, the intensity of their love making increased. The places and the variations of their activities was only limited to their imagination. While not voyeurs, his home on ten acres added another dimension to their love making. The seclusion of the property provided the opportunity to fulfill their desire for each other in the beautiful gardens, pool and surrounding wooded area. They even took advantage of the gazebo where they spent hours basking in their passion for each other. 

It wasn't long before Dani decided that she was officially addicted to love making. The things Ryan did to her body were still shocking, but she was eager for every thing that he taught her. He'd even spanked her as he once threatened. It was so hot that she was coming even before he thrust his cock into her pussy. 

Her man definitely had some serious skills. 

*

Soon enough the night of the dinner with Ryan's family arrived. Dani was more nervous than ever. This was an important night and she was well aware of how far a good first impression would go. Which brought her to her current dilemma, what to wear. 

She was standing in her walk- in closet, regretting that she didn't buy something specifically for the dinner when she went shopping with the girls. She told herself at the time that she had more than enough things in her closet to chose from; some with the price tag still on them. 

Dani showered over an hour ago, having done so early to give herself plenty of time to choose an outfit and dress before Ryan arrived. Also, if she had waited until he got there, he would have wanted to take a shower together and if she knew anything, it was that they would have been all over each other jeopardizing arriving to the dinner on time. This night was too important for her to risk that. 

But plans often go awry, so here she was scanning her closet and looking for the world like she'd never seen most of the things in there. She didn't want to over dress, but she certainly didn't want to feel out of place by under dressing either. 

She knew that it would have been wiser to choose an outfit earlier in the week, but she'd purposely avoided thinking about meeting Ryan's parents. Their opinion of her was more important than anyone's, save Ryan's. Now she was faced with the consequences of being a procrastinator, growing anxiety. 

Grumbling, Dani stepped out of the closet and sat down on the bed. She was exhausted and her head was beginning to ache. Hoping to gain some clarity, she fell back on the bed with an exaggerated sigh and stared at the ceiling. 

"This is just a dinner, why am I tripping?" she asked herself. 

Her alter ego, ever ready with an answer replied, "Duh, because it's not just a dinner." This was the man she wanted to spend the rest of her life with; being accepted by his family was important to their relationship. She'd just have to stop being a ninny and find something to wear.

"They are just regular people," she thought without much conviction. 

Dani was about to get back to the task when Ryan walked out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around his waist. The silky dark blond hair on his broad chest glistened with moisture as she eyed his masculine beauty. She thought that if Michelangelo could have seen Ryan first, he would have forgotten about sculpting David. 

"Why aren't you getting dressed? Don't you feel well, baby," he asked, the frown on his face mimicking the concern in his voice.

Sitting up, Dani took Ryan's hand and pulled him down beside her. Resting her head on his shoulder, she sighed, "I'm ok Ryan, just nervous about meeting your family. I think I've become brain dead trying to decide what to wear. 

Rubbing her back, Ryan asked with a grin, "Is that all it is?' 

"Is that all it is?!" Dani squawked bringing her head up from his shoulder, her voice filled with fringed indignation. 

"Men; that's just so typical," she groused.

Ryan chuckled at Dani's outburst knowing she was only kidding. 

"Ok, love of mine, let me get in there," he said taking charge. "I'll see what I can find. It shouldn't be that hard; you have great taste and always look sexy, even in your sweat suit." 

Glancing at him Dani grunted and retorted, 

"Huh! Sexy is not the first impression I want to make on your parents. I don't want them to think that I'm some femme fatale trying to sink my hooks into their baby boy. Maybe something conservative," she suggested. 

Ryan shook his head at her serious expression.

"Honey, there isn't a chance that you're going to look conservative unless you wore a burlap sack and I'm not convinced that would work. Your nervousness is making this harder than it needs to be." 

After reluctantly untangling himself from her arms, Ryan got up and said, "Sit right there and I'll find something that's revealing and hot that accentuates your tight ass." 

He got up and headed to the closet, chuckling when she threw a shoe at him. It hadn't missed by much.

After ten minutes of rooting around in the closet, Ryan came out with a red sleeveless knit dress. It had a slightly scooped neckline and the waist was accented by a wide band of the same material, but in black. Dani purchased the dress a couple of months ago and promptly forgot about it. She tried it on in the store, so she knew it was form fitting, but not tight. The hem ended a couple of inches above her knees. 

He also had a pair of 3 inch black peep-toe pumps and a black clutch. 

Dani stared at him with her mouth opened in shocked. 

Quickly closing her mouth she stood up; standing on tip toes she gave him a big fat kiss. He wrapped his arms around her and picked her up as he deepened the kiss. 

The dress was perfect. 

"Thank you, Ryan. I'm sorry about the shoe." 

"You're welcome, babe. Don't worry about the shoe, I love a spirited woman," he responded with a smile before kissing her again. 

Feeling his desire rise, Ryan swatted Dani on her perfect ass and said, "No more of that or we'll be here all night. You wouldn't want to explain to the folks that we missed dinner because we were getting our freak on, would you?" he cracked as he released her. 

* 

Ryan's parents lived in a sprawling Mediterranean Style home that sat on fifteen acres of beautiful real estate that included a small lake, tennis court, outdoor kitchen, Olympic size pool and a huge outside living and dining area, all surrounded by a lush landscape. Although the home was large, its earth tone colors and tropical gardens evoked a sense of warmth and intimacy. 

Following the winding driveway to the rear of the house, Ryan parked his metallic gray Jag alongside a candy apple red Infinity. Smiling and nodding towards the car, he said casually, "That's Caleb's baby."

Ryan helped Dani from the car and they walked from the car park through the beautiful outside living space. As they approached the house Ryan notice Haley, Matt and Micah sitting outside talking. Haley, the first to see Ryan, called his name and tried to get up, but being eight months pregnant, it wasn't that easy any more. Matt helped her up as Ryan and Dani drew near. 

Haley was tall, statuesque even, although during her early teens she was what could be called gangly. But, with age, she'd lost that tom boyish figure and morphed into a curvy woman with full breasts and rounded hips. Her hair was deep chestnut with a glossy sheen, her eyes a soft doe brown. She wore a dark blue sheath dress which flattered her frame and on her feet were sensible dark blue flats. 

When they were within a few feet of the trio, Haley stepped forward and threw her arms around Ryan's neck and hugged him, getting in as close as she could with her rounded belly. Looking over his shoulder at Dani, who was slightly behind Ryan, Haley smiled and winked at her. 

"One down," Dani thought, relieved. 

Releasing Ryan, Haley caught Dani's hand and pulled her in for a big hug as Ryan was greeted by his brothers and Matt with slaps on the back and sly grins. 

"I'm so pleased to meet you," Haley whispered as Dani hugged her back. 

Ryan introduced Dani to his brother and brother who teased her about her questionable taste in men. He laughed good naturedly as they ribbed him by listing, what they told Dani, were just a few of his many faults. Joining in the fun, Dani came to Ryan's defense saying that he must be a reformed man because she'd seen none of the alleged faults. 

Micah scoffed at that retorting, "Damn Ryan, you've totally pulled the wool over her eyes." 

They all laughed uproariously, including Dani. 

After they regained their composure, Ryan took Dani's hand and suggested they go in so that he could introduce her to the rest of the family. Dani followed him with the others in tow.

The back entrance of the house led into a huge Butler's pantry and that into a kitchen that was a professional cook's dream. The kitchen, living and dining rooms were open concept making what truly could be called a great room. Most of the family congregated in the living room, while Ryan's mother, Micah's girlfriend Amanda and their grandmother, who came up from Ft. Myers, were in the kitchen. 

Helen turned as Ryan and Dani crossed the threshold into the kitchen. Immediately, her face was engulfed in a smile that encompassed not only her son, but the woman she knew was making him very happy. 

Her emerald green eyes sparkled as she exclaimed, "Ryan!" and pulled him into her arms for a hug and a kiss on the cheek. 

Turning toward Dani, she hugged her and said, "Welcome to our home, Dani. It's about time Ryan brought you around. I've heard so many good things about you, but I was beginning to think you were a figment of his imagination." Smiling, Dani said, "Thanks for inviting me. I just know that it couldn't have all been good. Just this morning Ryan was complaining about...."

She never got to finish as Ryan playful cupped his hand over her mouth from behind and said in a stage whisper, "Mom, doesn't need to know about that, babe." 

Everyone laughed and Dani blushed profusely because she knew that Ryan gave them the impression that she was going to reveal some intimate detail. She was only going to mention that he complained about the scorched scrambled eggs. But that was entirely his fault, he'd been all over her, not that she was going to tell them that part.

Everyone eyed her with that knowing look and Dani knew Ryan wasn't going to correct their impression. She was fast learning what it was like being among the Sinclairs. They were a loving family who was comfortable with kidding each other even when it involved sexual innuendo. 

"Don't worry about it, dear," Helen said in a soothing voice, "we all know what Ryan's like." 

Dani didn't know what to make of that statement, but it did noting to cool the warmth in her cheeks. 

Before they moved on into the living room, Dani was introduced to Ryan's grandmother and Amanda who graciously welcomed her with a hug and said they were pleased to meet her. 

The living room was a big space with a huge sectional sofa at its center. Other seating included a couple of over stuffed upholstered chairs and a large ottoman. Over a section of the Brazilian cherry hardwood floor, was a sumptuous Persian rug which, Dani found out later, was purchased by Daniel years ago on a business trip to the Middle East. The room also had several occasional tables and lamps.

On the central wall was a large gas fireplace with a granite slab facade and hearth. Although winters were relatively mild in Florida, there were several times during each season when a warm fire was appreciated. 

There was no television in this room. The space was furnished for comfort and social interaction of the conversational type. With the generous size of the room, the family could easily host a considerable crowd, which they did on several occasions throughout the year. 

Dani was introduced to Ryan's grandfather, who smiled and kissed the back of her hand. There was a warmth and sincerity in his eyes when he told Ryan what a lucky man he was. 

Then she was introduced to his father, Daniel, who pressed her small hand into the warmth of both of his and welcomed her to his home with a kiss on her cheek. Lastly, she was introduced to Caleb and his girlfriend Amber, a petite Asian woman with large dark eyes. 

Helen informed them that it would be a few minutes before dinner was ready and encouraged everyone to sit and talk. Of course, they all wanted to know about Dani, especially about her relationship with Ryan. But not wanting to embarrass her, they kept the personal questions to a minimum and the conversation casual. 

Ryan was sitting at the corner end of the sectional, having a heated sports discussion with Caleb seated in an arm chair, while Dani sat next to him discussing the Ybor City Art Exhibition, which was taking place the following month, with Amanda who sat next to her on the sofa. 

Dani, who was more relaxed now that she realized that she wasn't going to be put on the spot, was unaware that her hand on Ryan's thigh would occasionally caress him. That little show of intimacy wasn't lost on Helen who nudged her husband to get his attention, and then nodded toward Ryan and Dani. 

Seeing the display, Daniel smiled, too. 

*

The dinner was a wonderful affair set out in buffet style so that everyone could serve themselves. 

After dinner, they sat around and continued their conversations, laughingly recalling childhood escapades and pranks. Dani was beyond enjoying herself. She felt like she'd known everyone for years instead of only a few hours. 

Later, Caleb talked to his Dad, Micah and Ryan about plans to revamp the outdoor living space at his home. Apparently the renovation bug was going around. Ryan was an avid participant in the conversation having enjoyed designing his own outdoor area. However, when he heard Dani's laugh, his eyes were drawn to where she now stood across the room with his mother, sister and Amber. 

Her back was to him, which afforded him the opportunity to admire her ample assets. Her rounded ass was being hugged and caressed by that damn sexy red dress. Her legs were firm and long for her height. He started to flush as he remembered how strong those legs where when wrapped around his hips. 




Ryan Ch. 04



Almost immediately, he began to feel the first talons of heat in his loins. Ryan was so engrossed that his mind drifted from the conversation, something that didn't go unnoticed by his father and brothers. 

Following the direction of his gaze, being men, they understood perfectly what distracted him. 

Caleb laughed out loud bringing Ryan out of his trance, albeit slowly. 

When Ryan's attention came back to them, they all were giving him a knowing look. Sheepishly, he smiled and said, "Ok, I'm busted, but who the hell can blame me?" 

None of them argued his point. 

Sighing, he said, "I still can't quite believe she's mine." 

Seeing his Dad's arched eyebrow, Ryan said, taking a deep breath, 

"You might as well know, this is it for me. I'm in love with Dani. I have been almost from the first moment that I saw her. She's everything I want and need. Having said that, you guys can stop throwing women in my path now," he laughed. 

Chucking, Micah said, "All I have to say is that you're one lucky bastard. Just think, if you hadn't gone to Lowe's that afternoon, you might not have ever met her. That's too much of a coincident for me; I have to believe that fate lent a hand. "

"Yeah," Ryan agreed, "especially since I rarely go there at that time of day. You know that I like to get my supplies in the evening and start off a project the next morning. But however it came about, I couldn't be happier."

"What about Dani?" his dad asked, "Is she in love with you, too? Then he shook his head and said, "I don't know why I even asked that, anyone can tell just by looking at her." 

"And looking at him," Caleb chipped in with a grin.

"Yeah, Dad, she's in love with me. Damn, I never knew it could be like this. I was happy before I met her, but I can't explain it. I... I can't even imagine my life without her now. While I think on some level I should be afraid of that thought, I'm not. It feels right; she feels right." 

Noticing the sudden sparkle in Micah's eyes and that he was starting to open his mouth, Ryan said, "Get your head out of the gutter, Micah, that's not what I meant. Well, she does, but... Oh, hell ..." he broke off.

Laughing Micah concluded, "Yeah, she's got you all roped and tied. Can't say I blame you, though, I feel the same way about Amanda." 

"Well, now," Daniel interjected, "does this mean your mother and I can expect a wedding or two soon and maybe some grand babies soon afterward?"

There was a "Damn," from Ryan, followed by an "Oh, shit!" from Micah and a "Don't look at me," from Caleb. 

Daniel just smiled at his boys. * 

A week later Dani received an invitation in the mail. 

Haley's best friend, Julianna Styles, was throwing her a baby shower at a downtown German Restaurant. Dani was pleased that Haley thought enough of her to include her in the celebration. 

Dani needed to get a present for the shower and enlisted her co-worker and friend, Charlotte, to go shopping with her. Since Haley was already registered at The Stork's House Boutique, choosing a gift would be relatively simple, but she wanted the company. She knew that Ryan painted the baby's room yellow and green and Haley had already purchased a crib and dresser in bright white. 

Since Dani got started as soon as she received the invitation, there was still a fairly large list of items to choose from. Even so, she wasn't sure what she wanted to get, but Charlotte who already had three children, provided some useful suggestions.

Charlotte's youngest was two years old and Dani had gotten a Lil' Luxuries Whirlpool Bath for her. It was the cutest thing. It was actually shaped like a Spa tub with jets and a shower sprayer, all in miniature size, of course. It was something she knew her friend wanted although she chose not to be registered anywhere. 

She and Ryan agreed to buy one gift as a couple and share the cost. Dani had to talk him into letting her pay her share, but he'd acquiesced without too much grumbling. She ended up getting a Glider, which came assembled. It was a beautiful chair that had a painted white frame and was upholstered in a bright shade of green with a matching ottoman.

To make the delivery as easy as possible, she requested that the store deliver the items directly to Haley's home on the day of the shower. She then called Haley to let her know to expect the package, but didn't give her a clue as to what it was. 

* 

The day of the shower turned out to be beautiful. There had been thundershowers in the afternoon for a couple of days, which had Dani concerned that the weather wouldn't clear in time. Thankfully, they were blessed with a clear, sunny weather. 

The Shower went off without a hitch. Julianna was a great organizer. They talked, ate, played games and generally acted like a bunch of teenagers, but everyone had a wonderful time. 

One of the games they played was 'guess the baby food.' They all were required to sample some baby food from an unlabeled jar; whoever correctly guessed what it was won a prize. It was funny that no one, including Haley, was overly eager to taste what looked like goop. 

The green/brownish mush turned out to be Garden vegetables with brown rice; not great tasting, but not as bad as it looked. Dani found it hilarious watching their faces as each woman sampled the baby food. Haley laughed until she cried. In the end, she got some wonderful gifts, including the glider and ottoman which arrived just as the shower was wrapping up. The delivery men sat the pieces up in the baby's room and they all stood around admiring them for a while before leaving. 

Two weeks later, Haley gave birth to Mallory Matthew Chase. He was named after her husband Matt and his father, Mallory. The baby was twenty one inches tall, seven and a half pounds with dark brown hair and his grandfather's blue /gray eyes. 

*

It was a tough day for Dani. One of the legal assistants, Melanie O'Connell, was out with the flu and no one was certain when she would return. Having phoned to wish her well, Dani had the feeling that she might take ill with the amount of extra work she would have to take on. 

Melanie's Boss, Mr. Grainger, had a big corporate case that needed immediate attention. Although there were two other legal assistants, Dani was tagged to research the case law and help prepare the legal brief. She didn't mind, but it was going to put a strain on her workload for a few days at the least.

McClain, Grainger and McKinney were a large prestigious law firm. Because of the size of their case load, they'd requested an interim assistant from the local work force pool to take care of regular secretarial duties. However, Mr. Grainger didn't want a newbie who hadn't been tested to their standards doing the more detailed work on any of their cases.

Dani knew she wasn't going to get home until close to 7 o'clock, so she called Ryan to give him a heads up. While waiting for him to answer, her phone beeped for an incoming call. Looking at the caller ID, she saw that it was her mother. 

She knew her mother was due to get back from her cruise today, but she hadn't figured on a phone call from her so soon. Dani wondered what she wanted, but was sure it wasn't an emergency since her mother would have called her on the cell phone for that.  

She was thinking of calling Ryan back when he picked up. 

"Hey, baby. Miss me already?" he asked. 

Smiling, Dani replied, "Of course I miss you, but that's not the reason I called."

Ryan gave a dramatic sigh and muttered, "Damn."

Dani chuckled at him and then got to the point of her call. 

"I called to let you know that I probably won't be home until about seven. Melanie is out today and I've been enlisted to do a couple of her jobs. I'm going to be up to my eyebrows in stodgy research and legal briefs."

"Don't worry about anything, babe. I'm leaving the bar around five. I have to do a little grocery shopping, but I'll fix a nice dinner for us at my place, ok?"

Thankful, Dani said, "That would be great. I didn't want to think about cooking after I got home. Thanks, baby."

"No problem, sweetheart; plan on spending the night. I'll see you around seven."

"Ok, Ryan. I love you."

"I love you too, babe," he responded. 

Dani looked at her phone after he hung up and decided that now was not the time to call her mother back. Her day was already going to be stressful and she just didn't have time to get into a long conversation about her love life and future grand kids, her mom's favorite subjects. However, she did listen to the message.

The start of the message wasn't promising. 

"Danielle Marie Carter, what's this I hear about some new man in your life. Crystal makes it sound like you're practically living with this guy and I'm just hearing about him. I take a little break to chill out a bit and this is what happens. Well, call me as soon as you can. Don't make me come down to Tampa."

Dani sighed. 

Her mother was a bit dramatic, but she didn't trust her not to come down to Tampa.

Her parents moved back to Jacksonville a couple of years ago. By that time she and Crystal had their own place and her brother, James, was away at college. Her mother reasoned that they'd done a good job of raising them, so it was the right time to move back to their hometown. 

Her father was always agreeable to anything her mother wanted, that's why they've been happily married for twenty nine years. Her mother spoke and her dad said, "Yes, dear. You're right, dear." It worked for them. 

They'd moved to Tampa because of her father's job promotion, which was a really big deal; still they'd missed the friends they left behind. They traveled back home occasionally and a few friends came to visit, but it wasn't the same as having them close all the time. The fact was, they knew their children didn't need them anymore, not like when they were younger. 

After listening to the call, Dani settled in for a long day.

*

She made it through the day, but she was bone tired. She'd left twenty minutes later than she intended, but she didn't want to leave any work to carry over to the next day. It was always busy, but if she didn't have unexpected work, she usually managed to complete her 'to do' list and leave the office by 5 o'clock. 

She was grateful for the extra work in a way. It kept her from thinking about her mother's phone call. She wasn't avoiding talking to her about Ryan, well not exactly. Frankly, she thought Crystal would have told their mother long before now. Meeting Ryan no doubt deterred her sister from her usual interfering role. 

Dani talked to her mother at least then times in the period that she'd known Ryan, but she managed to avoid the subject of her love life by telling her she was very busy at work, which wasn't a lie. She hadn't said she wasn't seeing anyone, she just didn't say she was. She knew, legally, she was on shaky ground with that explanation, but she had been desperate. 

The problem with dealing with her mother was that she let her imagination get the better of her. Her mother would hear 'new guy', then automatically wedding bells would go off in her head and the pitter patter of little feet would soon follow. Unfortunately for Dani, more times than not, she was the one her mother converged on like a heat seeking missile. 

It was one thing For Dani to talk to her Mother about random dates, quite another to talk about her relationship with Ryan. Yeah, her mom would want to know the details. Yeah, those details, including the what, who, how, when and the where of it all. 

Dani decided she'd deal with that later tonight, if she didn't, her mother would call first thing in the morning. No one should doubt that her mother was anything but persistent. * 

Dani stopped by her condo to change into something comfortable before heading to Ryan's place. She decided on a short, form fitting floral skirt and a canary yellow knit top. She would also need an outfit to wear to work tomorrow. She had some things at Ryan's already, but there wasn't anything suitable for the office. 

While she was at it, she decided to take a few other things. Ryan was always complaining that she didn't have enough clothes in his closest. The space was made available by the fact that he had a considerable amount of his clothing in her spare room closet. If they moved in together full time, she knew she would need to edit her clothing, especially those she hadn't worn in a very long time. While not exactly a pack rat, it seemed that her gene for getting rid of stuff was a bit mutated. 

It was after 7:30 when she pulled into Ryan's drive-way. After getting out of the car, she got her things out, locked it and headed to the front entrance.

Opening the door with her key, she could hear the stereo playing some soft blues. She immediately felt at home. She closed the door and proceeded through the foyer into the living space. Ryan was tossing a salad in a large wooden bowl with equally large wooden utensils. He was a fabulous cook and look at home in the spacious kitchen. 

Dani put her purse down on the end table, the garment bag over the back of the sofa and the suitcase on the floor next to it.

Looking up, Ryan gave her a huge smile.

"Hi, sweetheart, I didn't hear you come in," he greeted her. 

Dani quickly walked over to him, took the utensils out of his hands, wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his head down for a sweet lingering kiss.

"Hi, baby. Gosh, I needed that," she whispered against his lips. 

Ryan grunted and pulled her in closer to his body, slanting his mouth to deepen the kiss. 

When Dani could take a calm breath again, she smiled at him and said, "Ummm, it's nice to have my dessert first, but what is that delicious aroma."

Instead of answering right away, Ryan gently caressed her butt and then squeezed it. He leaned in for another short kiss and replied before releasing her, "Lasagna. It's another family recipe, Grandma McMillan's this time." 

"Yum, I can barely wait." 

"I'm sorry for being late, baby. I didn't want to leave any carryover work for tomorrow," Dani said. 

"No apology necessary, sweetheart. I know how work gets sometimes."

Dani sat on a bar stool while Ryan took the lasagna out of the oven.

"Oh, by the way, I got a call from my mom. Apparently, Crystal finally broke and told her about us and she wants me to call her with details." 

"Why haven't you told your folks about us before now?" Ryan was curious to know. 

Dani sighed deeply.

"To understand that, you'd have to understand that our Mom has been trying to get Crystal and I married since we turned eighteen. I think she was planning our weddings even before then," she said only half joking. 

"She has clucked over and vetted every boyfriend and or date with the intention of finding us a marriage mate. Never mind that we wanted to grow up a bit before we took the leap. Oh, yeah and we wanted to find the right guy for us, not our Mom." 

"It was hard for us to dodge the boyfriend inspection while they lived here, but once they went back to Jacksonville, we got a breather. Besides, if you remember, she and dad have been on that cruise with their friends the past 6 weeks. There was no point in telling her while they were on vacation, at least that's what I told myself. I know I could have told her before that, but really, I wasn't ready for the drama," she said. 

While they waited for the fresh bread Ryan made to finishing baking, Dani took his hand and led him to the sofa where she snuggled up to him. 

"Anyway, I figured we could spend some time with them now that they're back. I have vacation time available. I could take off a week and if you can get away, I'd like to introduce you to my parents. I warn you, if you decide to accept this mission, you could self-destruct within sixty seconds of meeting them." Dani concluded, trying to paraphrase the old Mission Impossible TV series she knew from re-runs. 

Ryan snorted and said, "Oh, don't worry sweetheart, I can handle them. You forget, I've been dealing with my family on the marriage subject for more years than you. As for visiting them, yes we can do that in a couple of weeks."

After the meal and cleaning up the dishes, Dani put in a call to her mother. It was almost nine, but she knew her parents would still be awake for some time.

She was sitting on the sofa with Ryan lying with his head in her lap, watching TV. The sound was turned down, low enough not to interfere with her call, but loud enough for him to hear. 

The phone was on its fourth ring when Dani's mother answered. 

"Hello?"

"Hi Mom, it's Dani." 

"Hi, sweetheart, how are you?" she answered.

"I'm great, Mom. How are you and Daddy?" 

"We're fine, except for the usual aches and pains you get when you're getting on in years." She replied.

"I was beginning to think you weren't going to call me back today. I was going to give you until tomorrow to fill me in on your young man, but I'm glad you called. Your father has been nagging me to death about when you're going to call back. He's over at Carl's playing Dominoes right now, so I got a break," she chuckled.

"So, what's he like? Where did you meet him? Is he from a good family? Does he have a brother for Crystal?" her mother asked almost without taking a breath. 

Dani knew her mother didn't like Crystal's boyfriend, Isaac because he'd been married before and had two children, from two different baby mamas, neither of whom were his wife. 

"Hold on, Mom, one question at a time. First of all, his name is Ryan Sinclair, he's 33 years old, he's a great guy; dependable, considerate, good with animals, kind to strangers..." she trailed off resisting the urge to laugh out loud.

She felt Ryan's shoulders shake with laughter at her description of him and pinched his butt, which only made he laugh again. 

"Are you trying to be smart, Danielle Marie?" her mom admonished in that stern motherly tone. But Dani knew she wasn't angry.

"No, I'm not trying to be smart, Mom. You asked," she reminded her mother. 

"Ok, child, get serious; good with animals, kind to strangers? Huh! Does he have a good job? He's not one of those men who still lives with his mama, is he? Do they still call them scrubs?

"Mom, you're incorrigible," Dani chided. 

"Ryan has his own business and his own home. Look before the game of twenty questions grows into one of two hundred questions, we're coming up to visit you and Dad in two weeks and we'll be happy to answer all of your questions, within reason."

"Within reason? What is that suppose to mean? I'm always reasonable, ask your Dad," her mother said. 

"Seriously?" Dani thought and almost choked on a laugh.

"Ha! That man would agree with anything you said," she declared. "If you said the sky was falling, he'd yell, "Watch out!"

Ryan didn't know what that was about, his mind having drifted back to the TV show, but he found Dani's response amusing. 

"As to the meaning, it means please, please don't embarrass me. He's my boyfriend, not a defense witness being questioned by the prosecution. Besides, you might run him off," She said, trying to head her mother off at the pass. 

"Not a chance in hell," Ryan whispered.

"Ok, Ok. I won't cross examine him, but your Dad and I need to know that he has your best interests at heart. From what Crystal told me, this is serious. We love you both. We may grill you about your boyfriends, but it's only because we want the best for you," her mother explained. 

"I know Mom," Dani said quietly. "We love you too and although we complain about your interest in our relationships, we do understand your motives." 

"I'm glad you do, sweetheart. Give your young man my regards. I'll let your Dad know you're coming. Call us a couple of days beforehand. Goodnight, baby, I love you." 




Ryan Ch. 04



"I love you too, Mom. Give Daddy a kiss for me and tell him I love him. Goodnight," Dani said and ended the call. 

"Whew! That was just a phone call; imagine what it'll be like face to face, Ryan."

Turning on his back, Ryan said, "It'll be fine. Your parents are just like mine, they want the best for their children. Besides, my intentions towards you are completely honorable, and most definitely lascivious," he ended with a smirk. 

Bending down, Dani gave him a soft closed mouth kiss. 

"Yeah, but they don't need to know about the lascivious part, although, personally I'd like another demonstration. How about a shower and then you can uh, give me a refresher course."

"How about a refresher course during the shower," he suggested. 

"You're on, Mr. Sinclair," Dani agreed, nudging him off her lap. She got her purse from the while Ryan gathered up her garment bag and suitcase. 

* 

Ryan sat the suitcase on the floor in the closet and hung up the garment bag, then pulled Dani into the bathroom. 

The bathroom was spacious, proportional to the size of his bedroom. It included an enormous frameless glass shower stall that could easily hold six adults. The walls were adorned with a beautiful simple handmade ceramic tile with a three inch border of smaller glass tiles, midway between the ceiling and the floor. There was a long vanity area with two vessel sinks. Over each sink was a large dark walnut framed mirror which matched the cabinetry. 

The floor was covered with a mid-tone gray slate tile.

The bath tub was over-sized, more than large enough to easily accommodate Ryan and another person. It was a spa type, rectangular with a wide profile. Above the tub was a sizable window that looked out into the gorgeously manicured outdoor space, sporting a neutral colored cloth shade for privacy. The toilet was in its own separate room, a water closet. 

The shower was outfitted with two rain scan shower heads in the ceiling, two hand-held shower mounts and a series of jets in the wall, a temperature control panel and a bench seat on one side. All in all it was a very masculine and sexy bathroom. 

As soon as they crossed the threshold, Ryan started to undress Dani, leaving her clothing strewn about in their wake. By the time they reached the center of the room, Dani was only wearing a pair of lacy white panties. 

She tugged Ryan's shirt out of his jeans, sharing soft kisses as they continued to undress each other. Dani pulled his shirt off of his big shoulders, while kissing his chest, loving the feel of the silky blond hair which tapered down into his groin area. 

Instead of unbuckling his jeans right away, she stopped to briefly indulge her fascination with Ryan's growing erection. She felt his cock jerk at her touch which created a corresponding response in her aching passage. Ryan's palms slid into the back of her panties, lifting and separating her firm twin globes, holding her loosely as she continued her attention to his swelling cock. 

He sucked gently on the side of her neck, careful not to raise a bruise on the smooth surface, and then licked it. His blood was thick with arousal, his caresses languid as he breathed in her scent and stroked her body into flames. 

Dani loved the feel of Ryan's hard body, but she wanted more. 

Sliding to her knees, she quickly opened his belt, unbuttoned and unzipped his jeans. She leaned into his crotch and inhaled the earthy musky scent, rubbing her face against his hardness. Unable to wait any longer, she slid his briefs and jeans down in one swift move. His throbbing cock held down by his tight clothing, slapped up against his hard belly, the tip moist with pre-cum. Ryan stroked her head and stared at her in anticipation. 

Dani gently took his cock in her hand and kissed the head, then rubbed it against her lips, eliciting a grunt from Ryan and a spurt of pre-cum which she licked leisurely. With her tongue, she traced the fat vein underneath the thick cock, savoring the texture and taste. With the moisture aiding the movement of her hand along his shaft, Dani returned to the crowning jewel at the top. 

Ryan, with his muscled thighs trembling, pushed the head of his cock into her mouth, rocking his hips with more urgency as she slurped and bobbed his thick tube in and out of her oral cavity. Taking panting, rasping breaths, the speed of his movements increased as Dani struggled to take in more of his raging hard-on. 

He felt the first tingles of approaching orgasm which he tired to stave off by slowing his speed. That only made him more aware of every stroke, every lick, and every flutter of her gloriously talented tongue. 

"Oh, fuck Baby, so good... so fucking good...suck my big dick, suck it. Oh, fuck yeahhh! Damn! You want my cum, baby? Fucking gonna...give it to you... oh, shit!"

"Ummmm," Dani moaned around his thick meat before licking the length. She pulled back to suck on the bulbous gland, her tongue tracing the slit, sliding around the rim...licking, sucking, cheeks billowing to increase his pleasure.

"Fuck... fuck... Fuckkkkk! Shit! Ohhh...ummmmm... goddamn! Here it comes baby, here it comes... ugghhhhhhhhhh! 

Ryan shouted and groaned as his balls constricted and his back arched, sperm rushing through his quivering shaft into Dani's hot waiting mouth. He stiffen, holding Dani's head in a death grip as he shot powerful jets of cum over and over while she stroke him with one hand and rolled his aching ball sac with the soft fingers of the other. For long minutes, his orgasm rolled over him until the volley of cum eased and his cock started to lose some of its rigidity. 

Dani continue to gently caress his dick with her tongue, lavishing attention on the head, the length, and then his balls. After a few minutes, she eased off and looked up at him. Ryan head was still thrown back as he enjoyed the final pulsing minutes of his fading orgasm. 

With his breathing returning to normal, he looked down to see that Dani still kneeling in front of him. She was beautiful. Her sweet milk chocolate skin glowing, her lids heavy, her eyes glazed with desire, her lips softly swollen and the fingers of her left hand was now stroking her hot, fragrant pussy. 

Hurriedly, he kicked out of his Jeans. 

Pulling Dani up, Ryan enfolded her in his arms, his dick rising at the press of her warm, moist body. Lowering his head, he slipped his tongue into her mouth, tasting the last vestiges of his climax. 

Dani laved her tongue under his top lip and then went in search of his broad tongue, nipping and tasting. 

"Mmmmm," Ryan sighed, his tongue dueling with hers.

"Mmmm, baby. I can't get enough of you," he said between nibbling her lips. 

"You're so fucking hot; you're going to give me a heart attack one day. Your mouth is so sweet and sexy, it should be considered a lethal weapon," he claimed with a grin.

"It's your fault, you shouldn't have such a big juicy cock," she grinned.

"I don't think my panties have been dry since we met. Then you popped wood on our first date. There was no way I couldn't feel it," she said as Ryan continued to hold her, his hands caressing her buttocks. 

Looking down at her, he said, "I'm sporting wood now; let's find something interesting to do with it."

He pulled her to the big shower stall and turned on the water to the desired temperature. The jets were already pre-set to reach all the right places on their bodies. Helping Dani into the shower, Ryan joined her, soaping up a loofah, then gliding it over her pretty body. It didn't pass her notice that his bare hands were slooshing over her silky skin more than the loofah. 

Ryan went down on his knees and proceeded to lather between her thighs, stroking her outer and inner labia. Dropping the loofah, he worked his middle finger into her vagina. Dani clutched his shoulders as she became weak in she knees and pressed back against the shower wall. 

"Oh, Ryan," she murmured, spreading her legs wider to give him better access to her throbbing flesh. Ryan continued to play with her as she pushed her hips into his caress, whispering his name over and over. 

Reaching up, he pulled down the shower head from the wall and started to rinse her nether region, opening her folds to his tender ministrations. Dani withered as his fingers resumed massaging her inner walls while the water from the sprayer washed away the soapy residue. 

Ryan dropped the shower head; then he leaned forward, took her clitoris between his lips and sucked gently as a second finger joined the seduction. 

"Oh, ooohh...... fuck...... Ryaaaaan!" Dani screeched as she felt the first rushing sting of approaching climax. Ryan increased the speed of the fingers plunging into her warm depths drawing out her pleasure until her body jerked. But before she could spiral into a dizzying orgasm, he stood up and turned her to face the wall. 

"Bend over, Baby," he ordered, his voice a deep husky whisper at her ear.

Dani bent, pressing her forearms against the shower wall as a cushion for her head. When she was in place, Ryan quickly ran his hand down her back to her buttocks, sliding over the soft plump mounds as she shuddered in pleasure.

"Mmmmmm, I love this ass," he said with a grunt. 

Whack! 

Dani jumped as she felt the flat palm of Ryan's hand strike her ass. Her breath came out on a long ragged hiss.

Whack! 

Whack! 

Whack! 

Dani's body quivered, her legs felt rubbery and her buttocks stung with erotic heat that spread to her aching pussy. 

With his hands on her firm flesh, Ryan spread her cheeks, bent his knees and rubbed his cock across her plump juicy lips from behind. Then he slipped the head to her vaginal opening and pressed in with a groan; the big head and two inches popping inside of her. 

She was still tight, damn tight.

Dani gritted her teeth then sighed; her orgasm was just out of reach.

Ryan heard Dani's sigh and waited for her body to adjust to his thickness, rubbing her back to ease the tension in her body as he stood still. Once she adjusted to the girth, he slid more of his shaft in, inch by inch until she had all of him. 

Reaching under her, he took her firm breasts into his hands, his thumbs teasing the nipples while his cock slowly rocked her humid passage. For long minutes he caressed Dani while he slowly increased the slide of his thrusting. Then, ratcheting up the pace, he hammered into her depths over and over, his hands now back at her hips, gripping her with the tension of his arousal and approaching orgasm. 

He could feel her pussy clutching at his shaft, the frequency increasing as her own release approached. Panting, almost crying for relief, Dani pushed her ass back onto Ryan's pubes as he rocked his cock into her throbbing pussy. 

"Oh, oh, ohhhhhh...mmmmmm, yes..... yessss.... yessssssss...oh..... fuck...... yesssss...I'm gonna...I'm gonna...cummmmm....baby....baby... baby! Oh fuckkkkkk!" 

Dani moaned, her body jerking at the pleasure/pain of Ryan's hand sliding down her body and pinching her swollen clitoris. She opened her mouth and screamed in ecstasy as her orgasm whipped her into an erotic frenzy.

"Fucking yeahhhhhh!" Ryan yelled as Dani's inner walls spasmed and choked his swelling cock as he released his churning load into her welcoming body. 

*

Eventually their orgasms were spent. 

Exhausted Ryan leaned against Dani's back, breathing heavily and stroking her belly. They stayed in that position a few moments longer, then Ryan stood up and slowly eased his cock from her tight pussy. He drew Dani back under the shower spray and quickly completed washing her body and his own, rinsing with the hand held shower head.

Stepping out of the shower, he dried her body and she dried his. Taking Dani by the hand, Ryan led her to bed where they dropped off into a deep dreamless sleep.



Ryan Ch. 05



Two weeks later Ryan and Dani were on their way for a week long stay with her parents. 

Dani was worried about sleeping arrangements.

She told her mother that she and Ryan would be happy to stay at a hotel if the thought of them sleeping in the same bed made her uncomfortable. Her mother replied that it wasn't the sleeping that made her uncomfortable, but they would be fine with the arrangement and wouldn't hear of them going to a hotel. 

Ryan pulled up to her parents' sprawling ranch style home on a quiet tree lined street. It was at that moment that Dani realized how much she really missed her parents. She hadn't seen them since she and Crystal spent a weekend with them five months ago.  

Ryan parked the car in the drive way and went around to open the door for Dani. She took his offered hand and stepped out of the car. Taking a deep breath, she looked at him and said, 

"Don't say I didn't warn you." 

Ryan squeezed her close and kissed her forehead before replying. 

"I'm duly warned and looking forward to the challenge."

Her parents must have heard the car because as soon as she and Ryan stepped onto the porch the door flew open. But whatever her mother was going to say got lodged in her throat when she saw Ryan. There was a stunned expression on her face, however, she recovered quickly and shrieked,

"Dani!" 

Dani rushed into her mother's arms, gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. In the meantime her father, as cool as ever, stepped out and introduced himself to Ryan and shook his hand. 

Releasing Dani, Michelle Carter, pulled Ryan to her and give him a big hug, too.

"My, my, you're a big one," She chuckled, shaking her head.

Dani looked at Ryan and arched an eyebrow; Ryan shrugged his shoulders and smiled. 

"Come on in, come on in," Michelle said, urging them into the house, practically dragging Ryan along.

"Huh!" Dani thought. 

They were led into the family room with her dad trailing behind. 

The room was very comfortable and spacious decorated in the traditional style with warm upholstered furniture and rich dark woods. They sat on the sofa, Ryan's hand entwined with Dani's, while her parents sat in matching upholstered arm chairs. 

Contrary to what Dani feared, her mother and father didn't ask any embarrassing questions. They mostly talked about Ryan's family and how he and Dani met. They showed interest in his business and her father, having served in the military himself, asked him about his tour of duty. 

Dani was relieved, but suspicious and wondered why her parents were changing their usual mode of operation. 

Ryan found Dani's apprehension unfounded, though amusing. Her parents were really sweet people; honest and open, just like his parents. He liked that and didn't mind their questions at all. They weren't as bad as she portrayed them to be, but then again, children often saw their parents in a way that others didn't. Maybe they just liked him. He wanted to believe that's what made the difference.

Ryan answered their questions, even divulging more than they ask knowing that they were concerned about the kind of person he was and his role in their daughter's life. It was a known fact that parents were more apt to worry about girls than boys; his parents were a testament to that with Haley. He and his brothers had it easy compared to their sister. 

His dad was worse than a drill sergeant with Haley's dates. When she and Matt started dating Micah and Caleb took bets on how long Matt would hang around. Of course, Matt stayed around and married her, impressing all of them, including their father. 

Ryan found out pretty quickly that Michelle and Davis Carter were characters. Davis had a penchant for telling bad jokes; not obscene jokes, just really, really bad jokes. They were so bad that they were hilarious. 

Her mother took pride in the fact that she'd never lost an argument with her husband in twenty nine years of marriage. After making that statement, she looked over to Davis for confirmation. 

On cue, he said, "Yes, dear," in such a dry tone that Ryan couldn't help laughing. 

It was nearing five o'clock when Ryan announced that he needed to get their bags from the car. Davis went out to help him while Dani and Michelle went to the kitchen to heat up dinner. Michele cooked everything the night before so that she wouldn't be rushed when they arrived and could spend more time with them. 

Once they were in the Kitchen, Michele put her hands on her hips and asked, "Why didn't you tell me he was white? I wasn't shocked mind you, but I was really...uh... uh...surprised."

At the look of disbelief on Dani's face, her mother laughed and amended her statement. 

"Well damn, I was shocked." 

"Does that make a difference to you and Daddy?"

"Oh, hell no," Michelle assured her.

"It's just that none of you have ever dated anyone white before and I was just stunned. Why didn't you tell us? Did you think we'd object?"

"Frankly Mom, as hard as it might be to believe, I didn't even think about it. When I look at Ryan, his color isn't the first thing I see. It's just been a non-issue for me."

"I can understand that. Have you gotten a good luck at him?" she teased. "That is one good looking man. I do believe he'll make some pretty babies."

"Mom!" Dani groan. 

"Oh, hush, child, you know I'm always thinking of getting me some grand kids."

"By the way Mom, what happened to the big third degree? I was beginning to think that some aliens had kidnapped my parents and left you guys," Dani said.

"Hell baby, anyone with eyes can see that Ryan loves you."

"Wow!" Dani thought. She and Ryan loved each other, but she didn't know that it was that obvious to anyone else, especially her mother who usually found a lot not to like in the men she dated. 

Shaking her head, she helped her mother set the table for dinner. 

She and Ryan spent a fair amount of time with her parents, but they also needed some time alone. Ryan was a sexual beast and he'd taught Dani to unleash her own sexual side. Even so, she was nervous about having sex in her parents' home. No one wanted their parents hearing them in the throes of an orgasm, least of all Dani.

Ryan, however, wasn't going to wait a week to make love again. He told her she'd just have to find a way to keep the noise level down. In mock offense, Dani replied that he'd better worry about his own noise. To prove his point, Ryan brought her to a gut wrenching orgasm with his tongue as she held a pillow over her face to drown out the screams. After regaining her composure, she conceded sheepishly that she just might be a little louder than he was. 

After that, Dani got over her reticence pretty quickly.

She enjoyed making love with Ryan too much to give it up for an entire week unless it was absolutely necessary. It helped that her parents' bedroom was on the opposite side of the house. Still, the morning afterward, she always paid close attention to them to see if they were sharing any knowing looks. Ryan, on the other hand, couldn't have cared less if the whole world knew that he was making love to his woman. 

In the end, Dani realized that she was being silly; her parents knew what they were doing. They'd even given them some time alone by visiting their friends during their stay. She knew that's what they were doing because her mother made a special point of telling her the exact time that they would be coming back. It was sweet of them, albeit a little disturbing. 

She and Ryan found time to visit some of the sights of the city after her mother informed her that they didn't expect them to be home bound the entire week. They were young and active and she and Davis expected them to be up and about without them tagging along.

When it came time to leave, Dani's parents expressed how much they hated to see them go. They made Ryan promise that he would keep in touch and Michelle gave him a kiss on his cheek and a big hug. 

Davis shook Ryan's hand and gave him a hug too. 

After saying their goodbyes, Ryan and Dani got back on the road and headed home. 

* 

Two months later.

Caroline Jameson was pissed. It was bad enough that finishing the job in London took longer than she anticipated, but having gotten a direct flight from Heathrow to Tampa, they'd touched down to a bloody monsoon. Well, maybe it wasn't that bad, but there was a hell of a rainstorm and getting a taxi was a bitch. 

It took an hour between her luggage being unloaded, waiting for it at the luggage carousel and getting a taxi. She could have reserved a rental car, but it didn't seem worth the trouble for a thirty minute trip, especially since she wouldn't need it once she got home. But, most of all, she loathed driving in rain. 

Now, sitting in the back seat of the cab, her frustration grew as the traffic moved at a snail's pace. "Damn rain!" she grumbled. It was the hurricane season and with its unpredictable weather she should have expected the deluge. 

That is one thing she hadn't missed about Florida. It wasn't that there was imminent danger of a hurricane; it was just that the weather was so changeable. It might be rainy all morning and sunshine in the afternoon or vice-versa. It also was damn hot during the summer. It wasn't just hot, it was humid. The humidity filled the air and sapped your breath and strength. Although she'd lived in Tampa most of her life, she never got use to the sweltering heat. So, what was she doing? She was returning home near the end of summer and it was still damn hot. 

Caroline wanted to get out of dodge, as it were, when she and Ryan broke up. It was just the stars aligning at the right time that made it possible for her to get the job in England. There was a security leak in the product development team and it came from the top. It was discovered that the head of the division, Shelly Pinkney, was selling information to their competitors. She was arrested trying to sell one of the company's cutting edge software programs to a German company. 

As the fates would have it, Caroline was one of the few people qualified to immediately take over the position. The fact that she was single helped as the other likely candidates were married and hadn't wanted to leave or uproot their families for an indeterminable length of time. Since the division was plagued with other security problems, home office didn't want to trust the team to someone less experienced.  

Caroline cleaned house and plugged the leaks, turning in a fabulous job for the company and winning the accolades of the CEO. Of course, all of this took time, including time for a replacement to be found. As luck would have it, they got a huge break on that score too.

A Personnel Divisional Manager from Reynolds and Taylor, a multi-line insurance carrier, applied for the job. He was working in Seattle, but his home was in London and he wanted to be closer to his extended family. Walter Abrams was working in Personnel only because his contract with his prior employer, Waxman Technologies, forbade him from working in the same field for two years after he left the company. The two years would be up just days before taking on the new position. 

As far as Caroline was concerned, he was a godsend. Because Abrams was already experienced, it didn't take long to do the background check, put him under contract and bring him up to speed. Once that was done, he hit the ground running. 

After the London job, her company, Rio Vista Innovations, offered her a five year contract with increased benefits, a signing bonus, pay hike, stock options, six weeks paid vacation and the use of a luxury company car. She'd taken the offer and set her sights on repairing her relationship with Ryan. 

* Some weeks later, Dani was pulling into a parking space at the grocery store when her cell phone rang. It was her brother James or little brother as she often referred to him. At six feet tall, he wasn't really little, but he was younger. 

She quickly parked and answered the phone. 

"Hey, little Brother, how are you?" she asked.

"I'm great Sis. By the way, I'm not little anymore," he corrected with a smile in his voice. 

"Yeah, yeah," Dani retorted. 

"The reason I'm calling, besides the fact that I miss you, is because Thanksgiving break is coming up in a few weeks and I'd like to visit with you and Crystal before spending some time with Mom and Pop. I haven't seen you guys in over a year what with taking extra courses and working part-time."

"I know Mr. Over achiever. You know you don't have to ask if you can come, we miss you too. At least I do, Crystal still says you're a brat and a pain in the ass," she teased. 

"Ahhh, she loves me, who could help it?" 

"Who indeed?" Dani quipped. 

"I wanted to know if I could stay with you. I stayed with Crystal the last time and wore out my welcome with her boyfriend, Bo, I think his name is. He didn't like me taking up Crystal's time. The dude has issues, you know."

"I know. Thankfully, he was gone right after you left. 

"Oh, by the way, I was at Calvin's parents' place over the 4th and Marcus was there. He said to give you his regards. He might be able to make it down your way around Christmas time. The boy is hoping that you'll give him a little of your time. He really likes you, but you know he couldn't turn down that scholarship." 

"I know and I like him too, but I don't think we were ever going to be more than just friends."

"How do you know?" James asked. "You guys seem to hit it off pretty well."

"As I said, I liked him a lot, but I didn't feel that boyfriend- girlfriend thing with him. You know what I mean. It wasn't even remotely possible that there could have been anything between us. In any event, you've been out of the loop a while, I have Ryan now."

"Ryan? Who the hell is Ryan? Last I heard you were dating somebody named Sam."

Laughing, Dani said, "That was over a year ago, boy."

"How was I to know? No one ever tells me anything. You, Mom and Crystal still treat me like I'm twelve years old. That's ok when I'm trying to get away with something or get something out of you, but I'm a man, just so you know." 

"Yeah, you sound like a man, just so you know," Dani giggled. 

"Ok, so who's Ryan?"

"He's my boyfriend as I said. I met him about six months ago," Dani explained.

"Six months?! That's like some kind of a record for you."

"Ha, ha, ha; that's funny. I just hadn't met the right guy," she said.

"So, he's the right guy?" 

"Yeah," Dani sighed.

"Oh my god, she's sighing, this has to be the real thing!" James teased.

"But, for real Dani, I'm happy for you. I'm sorry for my boy Marcus, but really happy for you. When do I get to meet this amazing brother?" James asked.

"You get to meet him when you visit, of course; but he's not a brother, he's Caucasian."

"Say, what?! You're kidding me," James retorted.

"Not kidding. Why are you all jacked up about it?" Dani asked with a little heat.

"You've never shown any particular interest in my dates before. As I recall, you still thought I was dating some guy from over a year ago." 

"Ok, ok, you're right," James said. "I just never thought about it because you've always dated black guys. It never occurred to me that you'd date someone outside of the race. There are enough decent brothers to have your pick. I just don't get why black women would want to date white guys."

"Why black women would want to date white guys?!" Dani squawked.

"You make it sound like I went looking for a white guy. Oh, and black men don't date white women? The fact is I am dating Ryan, not his race. While I'd like you to be happy for me, it's not absolutely necessary."

"This is my relationship, the how's and why's of it isn't your concern, little Brother. I love you, but you have to make up your own mind about Ryan. Just know it isn't going to change mine."

"Yeah, I get it. Do Mom and Dad know; I assume Crystal knows."

"For the record, they like Ryan. Mom was a little surprised, but dad didn't blink an eye. The bottom line is, they know that it's important to me for them to accept the man I love, but if it wasn't within them to do that, it wasn't going to make a difference to my relationship with him. Understand?" Dani asked softly.

"Yeah, I understand, Sis." Then after a few seconds thought, "You love him, huh?"

"Yes, I love him," Dani said. 

"Ok. I'm not looking forward to shooting down Marcus's dream though," he sighed.

"It was a pipe dream, Jay. I never gave Marcus any encouragement other than being nice to him like I am with everyone, just so you know. Damn, you've got me saying that now."

"Anyway, you'll see a lot of Ryan. I'm either at his place or he's at mine. So, if you still want to stay with me, you're welcome, but do not, I repeat, do not make waves with Ryan." 

"I won't Dani; I just want you to be happy. It's just going to take me some time to get use to it," he said. 

"Ok, Jay. Give me some phone sugar, Muaaaaaah! Don't forget to call and give me the details on your flight. I'll pick you up at the airport. Ok?"

"Ok, Dani. Tell Crystal that I'll be coming down."

"I will, Jay. Love you."

"Love you too, Sis. Bye." Dani phoned Crystal to let her know that James would be flying in to spend part of his Thanksgiving break with them. She'd briefly thought of having James stay at her apartment while she stayed with Ryan, but he had to get use to their relationship and it might as well be now rather than later. Getting voice-mail, she left a message with the particulars and went in the store to do her shopping.

*

Dani was preparing dinner before she and Ryan went out with their friends Grant and Monica to see the movie Prometheus. The film was Monica's choice. Neither of the women were hardcore fans of chick flicks which the guys liked just fine. 

It was almost six and she was expecting Ryan any minute. Monica and Grant were due to arrive around six thirty. She was just putting the dinner rolls in the oven when she heard the door open. Ryan laid his briefcase on the console table in the hall before stepping into the living room.

"Hey, baby," Dani called to him. 

"Hi, sweetheart, something smells great," he said.

"It's one of your favorites, chicken cordon bleu," she replied, then noticed his strained face.

"You look tired. Maybe a night out after dinner isn't a good idea," she suggested.

"I'm all right, babe," he said as he sat down at the breakfast bar and ran his fingers through his short hair. 

"It's just been one headache after another today. First the liquor distributor, who was supposed to be at our door at 8 a.m., didn't show up. When he wasn't there by 9, I called and was told that they thought he was just running behind. Well, he wasn't. When they tracked him down, he was in the hospital emergency room. He'd been in an accident and overturned the truck. It wasn't his fault and thankfully he sustained only minor injuries, but a lot of the bottles were broken."

"Some of this stuff was imported besides being special order for Tony's birthday party next week; it's not just sitting in a warehouse down the road. They're going to do a rush on the replacements and they assured me that the order would be at the bar in 4 days."

Dani saw Ryan trying to release the tension in his shoulders by rotating them, so she went around the breakfast bar and started giving him a massage. 

"Ahhhhh, damn that feels good," he groaned.

"Anyway," he continued, "I got that straightened out and then Ben cut his hand pretty badly in the kitchen and I rushed him to the hospital. He's doing ok, but he's going to be out for a couple of weeks at least. He claims he needs only a few days, but I told him to forget about that, he was going to follow doctor's orders."

"We got Jeff in to back him up, but I helped out for a few hours. All this happened right at lunchtime. You know how busy we are between noon and three. I'm beginning to think I'm not paying my people enough money," he said with some humor.




Ryan Ch. 05



"The rest of the day was spent reviewing the weekly accounts. I'm beat, but I'll be fine in a bit."

"Do I have time for a quick shower?" he asked.

"Yes, you have time, and I'll have a drink ready for you when you get out. What would you like?" Dani asked after she kissed the back of his head. 

"Crown, and make it a double," Ryan said with feeling.

"Ok, Mr. Sinclair, off you go," she said pulling him out of his seat. 

Ryan took a few steps, turned around and pulled Dani into his arms to give her a gentle kiss on the lips.

"Ummmm," he said, sliding his lips to her neck. "Have I told you lately how much I love you?" 

Smiling, as he continued his exploration, Dani answered. 

"Yes, you have, but that doesn't mean I ever get tired of hearing it. I know that you love me and I want you to know everyday that I love you."

"Yeah, I do know," he said with a sigh of contentment. 

"Now, that shower before we both need one," he said, chuckling as he released her. * 

Ryan was just getting out of the shower when Grant and Monica arrived. 

"Is Ryan home yet?" Grant asked as he walked into the foyer.

"He's in the shower. He's had a pretty rough day at the bar. I'll let him tell you about it," Dani said.

"Can I help with anything?" Monica asked.

"Thanks, everything is ready, but you can help me set it out later. Why don't we sit and talk," she suggested, "Ryan should be out soon."

As Grant and Monica settled on the sofa in the living room, Dani offered them a drink. Both declined saying they'd wait until dinner. 

Dani joined them and noted again how similar in looks they were. Both of them were tall, Grant being about five inches taller than Monica's five feet ten inches. They both had dark brown hair and dark eyes. But more than that, they were similar in their personalities; smart, witty, open and easy going. They were great friends just to hang out with.

They were discussing Monica and Grant's plans for the renovation of their home when Ryan walked in, pushing up the sleeves of his light gray knit top, which he wore with a pair of dark gray slacks. 

"Hey guys, glad to see you," Ryan said picking up his drink off of the breakfast bar and sitting down next to Dani.

"It's been one hell of a day, but the shower seems to have restored my usual sunny disposition."

"Uh, huh, sunny," Grant said with a grunt and then a bark of laughter. 

Ryan raised his eyebrow at Grant which made Monica and Dani laugh. 

Taking Ryan's hand in hers, Dani defended him saying, "He is the most kind, generous, loving, sunny man that I know." 

"Yeah, he has you brainwashed," Grant said with a snort. 

Dani gave Grant the evil eye, earning a chuckle from him, and then said, "I'll let that slide for now."

Just then the kitchen timer went off and she turned to say to Monica, "Will you help me in the kitchen?" 

Ryan smiled at his friend and said, "You dodged the bullet on that one, buddy. I'm golden in Dani's eyes."

Grant grinned and shook his head. He thought that ran both ways. * The meal was a lively with lots of quick banter and laughs, which was just what Ryan needed after his day which he briefly told them about. They decided to forgo plans to see the movie in lieu of just chilling out. Ryan was none the worse for his stressful day, but they were just enjoying the conversation too much to end it. 

After the meal Dani and Monica tidied up the kitchen and dining table, declining the offer of help. They loaded the dishes into the dishwasher and put away the leftovers.

While waiting for them to rejoin the conversation, Ryan offered Grant some time and stress saving advice on his restoration. Having been directly involved in the designing, building and decorating of his own home, he was well aware of the pitfalls that could add time and money on the back end to a project like Grant's. 

* 

It was almost eleven thirty when Grant and Monica left. Ryan and Dani walked them to the door and said their goodbyes promising to make up for the missed movie. As soon as they were gone, Ryan turned on the stereo and put in a Cd of classic slow dance tunes. With the remote, he dimmed the lights and then beckoned Dani with his finger. 

Smiling, Dani walked seductively into his embrace. Ryan pulled her close and breathed in her sweet heady scent. Moving in a slow sensual dance, without a word spoken, they conveyed their deep connection and love. 

Dani's s arms circled loosely around his neck, while Ryan's hands gently cupped her swaying hips. He leaned down, his lips slightly parting as he gave her a whisper of a kiss that radiated heat through her entire body. His lips kept her engaged as he dipped to lick and caress those soft pillows at the entrance to the moist interior of her mouth. But when Dani sought to deepened the kiss, he moved his head back and his dimple winked at her when he smiled.

She always knew that smile would be trouble. 

As he gently nibbled her lips, his hands slipped down to her luscious rounded buttocks, squeezing and eliciting a drawn out moan from her. Then he moved them up to torture her swelling breasts. For long minutes they lingered in this sexual haze, drowning in the potent scent of sexual arousal. Finally, Ryan deepened the kiss, sliding his tongue between her lips to play with her hot little tongue. They both groaned as they felt their blood quicken. 

Having done with teasing, Ryan eased Dani's dress up around her hips and returned his big hands to her butt. With her arms still around his neck, he lifted her up against his body. As she lost contact with the floor, Dani wrapped her legs around Ryan's hips, a position that she loved. Looking into his lust filled gaze, she knew that the sensual emotion swirling in his eyes reflected in her own.

Ryan carried Dani to the bedroom and set her on her feet again, but only to dispense with her clothing. He made quick work of baring her smooth toffee colored skin while she tried to rip his clothing off at the same time. They laughed as they were doing more to impede the process than hastened it. 

Once they were naked, Ryan laid across the bed on his back. With his hand around the base of his cock, he stroked from the base to the engorged head, starting to feel the familiar ache in his balls. Dani stood at the side of the bed watching as if mesmerized. She licked her lips as his masturbation produced copious amounts of pre-cum which he used to lubricate his hefty shaft. Looking Dani in the eyes, Ryan growled, "Ride me, baby."

Dani climbed out of her trance and onto the bed as Ryan continued to grip his cock with one hand while still stroking the shaft with the other. As she straddled his hips, he reached out to delve a finger into her pussy, coaxing out a flood of fragrant juices. 

Dani groaned, rocking her hips as Ryan finger fucked her. When he was sure that she was ready, he looked at her and said urgently, "Now."

With her legs spread, Dani balanced herself on her knees, took hold of Ryan's cock and eased her aching pussy down upon it. She gasped as her opening strained to take in his fullness, then let herself drop inch by glorious inch onto her mate, the man who possessed her heart and soul as much as her body. 

Ryan loved the slow slide of Dani's body on his throbbing cock. He loved how she caught her breath at the initial stretching of her tight vaginal opening. As she slid down, he ran his hands up and down her thighs, feeling the slight trembling. When she was seated, he breathed a deep sigh.

"Nothing has ever felt as good as this," he said. 

Dani looked at Ryan and was overwhelmed by the love she saw in his beautiful green eyes. Her man was all about showing his feelings, never shying away from the fact that he loved and needed her. 

Leaning down, she kissed his chest above his heart, feeling the muscle twitched against her soft lips. Moving down a bit, she kissed his hard puckering nipple, laving it with her tongue and then gently sucking. Ryan grunted and hissed as he felt her pussy clinch around his shaft. His body arched, as his cock expanded. 

Dani sat erect and used her knees and thighs to ride up and down on Ryan's towering organ; starting with a slow languid motion as her walls squeezed his cock on the up stroke. Ryan's hands on her hips aided her as both their sexual fluids joined to create a smooth glide. 

The heat in Dani's pussy grew as Ryan's shaft rubbed her clitoris on every stroke. Gradually she increased the speed upon her magnificent stallion, bouncing up and down while he pushed in and out in tune with her rhythm, his hands clutching her hips. 

As their speed threatened to push them over the edge, Ryan's big hands grasped her tightly to still her movements. Then, with his dick still impaled in Dani, he flipped her onto her back and started pistoning in and out of her pussy faster and faster, bringing them closer to release. 

Ryan could feel the tell-tale sign of approaching release, the drawing up of his ball sac, the elemental need to fill his woman with his seed, to plant his babies in her warm body. He rocked his hips faster, reaching out to take her hands, he trapped them over her head as he continued to plough the, as yet, unfertilized field. 

Sweating and panting, with the smell of sex thick in the air, he gave one last mighty thrust and felt the pulsing of Dani's pussy as she screamed in bone melting pleasure. Then and only then did he join her, tripping over into ecstasy, his sperm shooting into his woman, his cock throbbing with the discharge of his thick hot seed. 

Time slowed as they rode the tidal wave to the end of their euphoric climax. 

Some time later, when his cock finally softened, Ryan rolled over onto his back and turned Dani into his arms so that her body draped over his. Dani sighed as she rubbed her face into his broad sweaty chest, loving the scent of his big heated body. Ryan stroked her butt, the round cheeks perfect in their creation. He loved her ass. 

"Your ass is a work of art," Ryan said languidly. 

"I ought to have a bronze sculpture made and mounted on the wall in my office. The only thing is, I'd have to learn how to sculpt. I sure as hell am not going to let anyone else see your ass up close and personal. Maybe it should be stamped, Private Property too."

"Gee, Ryan. I can't begin to tell you how weird it is that you've even thought about that, let alone said it out loud," Dani said with a chuckle.

"Well, you know how it is. You work day gets boring and your mind just floats off into other realms. Before you know it, you're thinking about your woman's sweet luscious ass. Oh, let's not forget about your tight little pussy. Huh! That would make a nice boxed set gift to myself," Ryan said with a straight face.

However, he couldn't hold it for long. As the corners of his lips curled into a smile, his dimple peeked out and he rolled on top of Dani and sent her into fits of giggles with kisses all over her face and neck. 

Winded from their exertions, Ryan pulled the comforter over them as they settled in for the night. 

* Caroline Jameson was not a quitter. As she sat out on the balcony of her apartment, she started to formulate a plan to set things right. She'd been home for a few weeks and was up to speed with what was going on, thanks to Karen. She'd managed to spend some time with her family without pulling her hair out. They were a trying bunch, her two sisters and her mother. Tony, her brother, was the only bright spot.

Her Mother, drama Queen that she is, was still upset with her for losing Ryan. Although it has been over two years since she and Ryan split, her mother was still lamenting the loss as if it were yesterday. Well, in Caroline's mind she still had a chance; after all he was still unmarried. She took that as a sign that his objection to marriage wasn't personal.

Karen informed Caroline of her little fiasco at lunch with Ryan's latest play pal as she called Dani. Thinking Caroline would be angry, she apologized profusely for her rash behavior. However, Caroline was not upset in the least; instead she did her best to alleviate Karen's distress. 

Caroline thought Karen knew enough not to broach the subject in front of Monica and Jessica, but it seems without explicit instructions, she tried to wing it. She couldn't fault Karen for her protective nature, particularly since it was Karen who consoled her when she fell apart after the break up. She might have wished that Karen had been more discreet, but she could have no better friend. 

Karen's best quality was her loyalty; add to that the fact that she craved acceptance and it was easy for Caroline to manipulate her without much effort. While Caroline might have objected at the word manipulate being used by anyone else, she couldn't deny that she had a way of steering Karen into the right direction, something she could never have done with Jessica or Monica. Although it was touch and go for a while, Karen maintained her friendship with the sisters by apologizing to Dani. 

Caroline knew that as much as she loved Ryan, she also wanted social status. She thought it fortunate that she could have both with one man. Her job, which furnished her some connections in the business world, was not prestigious and did not provide the ingress afforded those in the upper tier of management. At best, she was on the third tier; valuable, well respected, but not irreplaceable. She wasn't in the same league as the power brokers and policy makers of her company; she didn't lead, she followed orders.

Ryan, although well connected, wasn't one to flaunt it. He had friends within the political structure of the state and some even at the federal level, but you'd never hear him talking about his wealth or influence or powerful friends. Caroline never understood that, but she wanted the entrée that being his wife would give her. But most of all, she loved Ryan.

They grew up together as a result of Ryan having befriended Tony when they were in junior high school. Caroline come along for the ride as the sister of Ryan's best friend. But she and Ryan never dated until he got out of the service. No matter how hard she tried, he treated her like a kid sister up until that time.

After, they got together, both families harbored the hope that they would unite the families through marriage. She genuinely liked Ryan's family and they thought her the perfect choice for him. It all seemed on tract to happen, until she got impatient. 

She gave Ryan an ultimatum, either move the relationship along or she'd walked. She wanted marriage and children and she was tired of waiting for him to be ready. This was an argument that they'd had before, but this time the ending was different. Ryan hadn't argued. He'd simply looked at her for a few seconds, said it was over and walked out the door. Caroline was devastated. 

* Ryan was having a great day. Everything at the bar was running smoothly and his liquor order was in. The party the bar was hosting was a birthday party for Tony Jameson. Although he and Tony had been friends for many years, he wasn't sure that relationship would remain in tact after he ended things with Caroline, but it had. Tony stayed true to his word and refused to take sides, no matter how much his sister begged him to intervene with Ryan on her behalf. 

Tony's party was arranged by his wife, Elizabeth, known to their friends as Lizzie. Lizzie and Tony started dating while she was a senior in college. Tony, three years older, was already working in his chosen field, banking, when they met. They married two years later. That was seven years ago. 

He was now VP of Atlantic Specific Bank. Lizzie worked at Hillsborough Community College, as an Instructor. Two years ago, she gave birth to a daughter, Ashley Juliette Jameson.

Caroline loved her brother and was proud of his accomplishments, but it wasn't lost on her that even he had more prestige in the community than she did. She'd find a way rectify that. 

* 

Ryan was sitting at his desk while Micah sat in a chair to the right of the door entrance. They were discussing the details of the party, making sure that all the arrangements were in place when Ryan got a phone called from David, the bartender. 

"Hey, Dave, what's up?" Ryan asked.

"Caroline Jameson is what's up, Ry. I told her you were busy, but you know how she is. She gave me that sweet as pie, but determined look, and headed straight for your office. "Good luck," he said with a low chuckle.

"Damn!" Ryan said, hanging up. 

Sitting forward in his chair with a look of concern, Micah asked, "What's wrong?"

"Caroline," was all Ryan got out before there was a knock at the door. 

He got up from his desk and opened it. 

"Caroline," he greeted.

Smiling she said, "Well, I guess Dave called and warned you, I can't say I'm surprised. May I come in?"

Moving back, Ryan held opened the door as Caroline swept in. She didn't immediately see Micah as he was to the right behind where Ryan was standing. 

"Have a seat Caroline," Ryan said, gesturing to the chair on her left.

As Caroline moved farther into the room, she was able to see Micah who sat with a slight smile on his face.

"Oh, Micah, hi. I wasn't aware that you were here," she said with a sweet smile taking the place of her initial surprised look.

"Not to worry, Ryan and I were just discussing business. I'll leave you two alone to talk. It's good to see you again Caroline," he said.

"That won't be necessary, Micah," Ryan said as he returned to his seat. "I'm sure Caroline can't stay long and we still have a few more things to discuss. 

Micah, in the process of leaving his seat, gave his brother a questioning look, but sat back down without saying a word.

Ryan knew Caroline well, he wasn't about to spend any time alone with her. He didn't want there to be cause for any speculation about their relationship, in her mind or anyone else's. 

Micah watched her shrewdly.

Caroline wasn't beyond using people, although she had a nice way of going about it. She wasn't a bad girl, she just thought she could have anything she wanted and that worked until she ran into Ryan's obstinance. 

His brother catered to her when they were together, no doubt about it. She was a pretty, engaging companion, but Ryan knew where to draw the line. It just took Caroline too long to learn that he couldn't be manipulated, no matter how pretty the package. 

There was no denying that Caroline was pretty. She was tall; a natural blonde with hazel eyes and long thick lashes. She was slim, but shapely and knew how to make the most of her assets as evidenced by the form fitting dress she was wearing with a push up bra that threatened to pop her breasts out of the top of the bodice. She was charming, even alluring, but she was overly confident.

Like a lot of good looking women, she tended to display a cute little pout when she couldn't get her way. That might have turned some men to mush, but not Ryan and while Micah couldn't deny her attraction, he was never influenced by it and had only found her amusing. 

He decided to enjoy the show. 

"Ryan, I really need to talk to you in private, just for a few minutes, please," Carolyn entreated, giving Ryan one of her most dazzling smiles.

"There's no need Caroline. There isn't anything you can't say in Micah's presence," Ryan responded.

Caroline squirmed in the chair, eyeing Micah, but he just smiled at her. 

Sitting on the edge of the seat, her attention went back to Ryan. "I've been in town for a few weeks, were you aware?" she asked.

"Yes, I knew. I got the news from Tony, probably within a couple of days of your return. He said that your job had ended and you were back. He didn't go into detail," Ryan replied, making it obvious that he hadn't asked either. 

"I assume your business in London was completed to your satisfaction."




Ryan Ch. 05



"Yes. Yes, it was. I have a new contract, but I'll be working from the office here. I'd hope that we could smooth over our differences and start over," she said keenly aware that Micah was listening. 

"We were a great team, Ryan and I don't want to lose your friendship, not to mention our personal relationship, over a misunderstanding. I realize now that you weren't ready for marriage, but that doesn't mean you won't ever be ready. I just jumped the gun."

Ryan leaned forward with his forearms on his desk, staring at Caroline while he drummed his fingers on the desktop. 

"In what world was weeks of arguing off and on, culminating in the termination of their relationship, a misunderstanding?" he thought.

"Since you've been in town some weeks, you no doubt have heard that I'm involved with someone. Despite anything anyone might have told you to the contrary, I'm supremely happy with the woman in my life," he said.

"We had our time, Caroline, it's time for you to let go." 

Carolyn opened her mouth to speak but, nothing came out. 

Ryan took advantage of the opportunity.

"Even if I didn't have Dani, it would still be over between us. We were just not meant to be together for the long term. I'd hoped that the time in London would have been sufficient to convince you that I am not the man for you. Nothing is going to change my mind," Ryan stated emphatically.

Seeing that she was getting nowhere and not wanting to embarrass herself further in front of Micah, Caroline gave a heartfelt sigh and got up from her seat. 

"I'm sorry to have bothered you Ryan. I just thought... never mind what I thought," she said putting that smile back on her face and smoothing her hair over her shoulder.

"It was good to see you again. I just hope we can still be friends. I missed that too. Nice seeing you too, Micah," She said turning her attention briefly to his brother.

Micah nodded, while Ryan got up from his seat and took Caroline's hand in his.

"Of course we're still friends, but you should understand that the dynamics of that friendship can't be the same as it was," he said breaking the contact.

"Yes, I understand," Caroline acknowledged.

"You'll be at Tony's party next week, won't you?" Micah asked. 

"Yes, I'll be there," she answered with a nod. 

Turning back to Ryan, she said, "Thanks for seeing me, Ryan."

"No problem and welcome home," he said.

When Ryan closed the door behind Caroline, he leaned back against it and dragged both of his hands down his face with a sigh. 

"Man, I hate scenes like that. I hope Caroline has finally got it through her head that we're over," he said with feeling.

Grinning, Micah said, "I kind of enjoyed the show.

"Caroline is nothing, if not persistent. The message couldn't have been clearer, but I don't underestimate her. She's use to having her way. You catered to her during your relationship giving her everything that she wanted. She became so sure of herself and your feelings for her that she probably hadn't thought that her ultimatum was taking much of a chance." 

"Yeah," Ryan acknowledged.

"We should have stayed friends; becoming lovers complicated things more than I expected. I should have known that we couldn't have a sexual relationship and maintain our friendship at the same level. Even now, there is no going back to the way it was before we got involved. I don't need the drama and I certainly won't let it affect my relationship with Dani."



Ryan Ch. 06



It was early in the day, but Dani was already planning her outfit for the party that evening. The attire was dressy, but not necessarily formal. The festivities would get underway at six thirty with cocktails and h'orderves. 

There was more than enough time, but she wasn't leaving this selection to the last minute. She remembered all too well the anxiety over the Sinclairs dinner party. Admittedly, there wasn't the stress involved with this event that she had with the other, but she wasn't taking any chances.

The other thing was, she felt a bit off. She wasn't sick, but her sinuses were stuffy and she had a headache. She was no stranger to the effects of allergies which rarely slowed her down, but she was beginning to feel fatigued too. She'd taken her usual remedies earlier in the day, but the symptoms were persistent. All things considered, she didn't really feel that bad, just not up to par. 

*            

Dani was deep into her walk-in closet when she heard Ryan call out, "Baby, where are you?"

"I'm in the closet, Ryan!" she yelled.

Walking to her bedroom, he saw an explosion of clothing all over the bed; dresses, shoes and purses. He had a sudden sense of deja vu. 

Walking into the closet, Ryan was greeted by Dani's awesome derriere which was sticking out as she bent over rummaging through her shoes. When he got near, he swatted her jean clad butt with the palm of his hand.

"Ouch!" Dani yelled, quickly straightening up. 

"Ryan Sinclair, you are a meanie for spanking me while I'm in that position," she complained rubbing her backside. 

Grinning, he pulled her into his arms and kissed her while his big hands simultaneously felt up her butt in the guise of soothing the swat.

"Aww, babe, it was only a little love tap. You know I wouldn't hurt the thing I love so much," he said before he swatted her again. 

That time she felt it in her pussy and groaned, "Ummmm," rubbing her belly against his growing erection.

The man was a danger to her peace of mind and he knew exactly what he was doing. She loved that he could send her hurling into orgasm just by spanking her. Even now, she was starting to tingle just at the thought of his hand burning up her ass.

"Shit," she thought, "I need to put a stop to this."

Reluctantly, she pulled away from his hot body.

"No more of that. I need to get my stuff together for the party tonight. If you distract me, it'll be two hours before I get back to this. So save it and I'll be nice to you later," she promised with a smile as she stroked his firming cock through his slacks. 

Ryan pulled her back for one last kiss, then said, "It's a deal, but you had better be very nice to me." 

Adjusting himself, he stated, "I have a few phone calls to make, so I'll leave you to it. After I'm finished, I'll fix something for lunch."

"Thanks, baby," Dani said as she continued her quest for the perfect pair of shoes. 

After lunch Ryan left to run a couple of errands.

Later, while Dani was getting dressed, Ryan called and said he was on his way. 

*         

Looking in the mirror, Dani was happy with her choice of dresses. It was one she bought for another party two years ago, which was the only time she'd worn it. Thankfully, she had it cleaned before hanging it up.

The dress was made of champagne colored silk. The bodice was a beaded corset with tiny color matching pearls and thin shoulder straps. The skirt of the dress fell in soft shimmering folds, flaring out slightly to just above her knees. She paired it with matching accessories which included shoes, earrings and a clutch.

Her hair was a simple ponytail. The style was swept up with the base of the ponytail at the crown of her head. A length of hair was wrapped around the base and secured with pins hidden beneath the fall of her hair in the back. The sleek ponytail dropped down to the middle of her nape. 

Looking in the mirror again, she gave herself a nod of approval. 

When Ryan arrived, he was a sight to behold. He was wearing a two button Hugo Boss dark Gray suit with black shoes. He wore a medium tone gray silk dress shirt with a matching gray silk tie and stainless steel cuff links. 

Grinning at Dani's open mouth expression Ryan said, bowing slightly, "Your carriage awaits, Milady.

Snapped out of her silence, Dani grinned back and said, "You are so close to having me tear off your clothes and jump your big bone. Damn! You are gorgeous," She gushed.

Ryan gathered her in his arms and kissed her deeply. 

Coming up for breath, he said, "Thanks, baby."

"You look absolutely delicious. I love the dress. It's got that sexy floaty thing going on and your breasts; shit, guys are going to be all over you," he said with a lusty gaze as he gently caressed the tops of her soft mounds.  

Feeling the rising heat, Dani took Ryan's roaming hand into hers and said, "Let me get my purse and we can go before you get too distracted."

Turning, she walked back to her bedroom, Ryan's eyes following her every step. But before she got very far, she looked over her shoulder, fluttered her eyelashes and wiggled her butt at him. 

Ryan chuckled and said, "You're begging for a spanking, lady. Hurry and get your purse, you don't want me thinking about that too long."

With that, Dani hurried out of the room. 

*          

When they got to bar, there was already a nice crowd with h'orderves being served by the wait staff. One of the spacious banquet rooms was elegantly decorated and there was a large birthday banner draped across the ceiling. 

The space in the front of the room was for mingling and dancing. In the dining area, which could be seen through a large open doorway, was ten tables which sat eight people each. Each table had a small floral arrangement set in a clear round vase at its center. The table was covered with pristine white linen. The dinnerware was white china etched with gold banding, the flatware sterling silver with gold edging. Crystal glassware rounded out the setting. 

Some time later, Caroline Jameson arrived with her date. Dani was at the far end of the room talking with a small group of women which included, Monica, Jessica, Haley and Amanda. 

Caroline was dressed in an elegant sleeveless sapphire chiffon dress that flattered her tall figure. The long dress flowed to the floor in shimmering waves. Her date was a tall blond with dark brown eyes; his hair was long, but professionally cut. They made quite a striking pair. 

Dani, with her back to the room, noticed that Monica's attention was drawn by something behind her. Looking back, she didn't notice anything unusual and wondered what piqued Monica's interest. But before she got a chance to ask, Monica said,

"Caroline Jameson just arrived. She's wearing the long blue dress," she said for Dani's benefit. 

Dani looked back again and said, after a slight pause, "Oh. She's very pretty." 

Although Ryan told her about his conversation with Caroline at the bar, somehow Dani had totally put the woman out of her mind. She knew Caroline was no threat to their relationship. Had Ryan wanted to be with her, he would have made that move long before now.

After a momentary lull, the women went back to their conversation. 

A few minutes later, Caroline made her way to the small group. Dani, with her back to the room, didn't see Caroline approach, but heard Jessica's whispered, "Here comes Caroline."

"Good evening everyone," Caroline said in a cloying sweet voice. 

"Isn't this just a fabulous party? I'm so glad that I made it back home in time to attend," she enthused. 

Everyone greeted her and welcome her home. They also, agreed that it was a great party and complimented her on her lovely dress. After a minute of banal chitchat with the other ladies, Caroline turned her attention to Dani.

"I know everyone here, but I don't believe I've met you," Caroline said. 

Jessica looked like she was about to say something, but before she could, Dani introduced herself.

"No, we've never met. I'm Danielle Carter."

"Danielle Carter? Do you know my brother Tony or his wife Lizzie?" 

Caroline knew very well who Dani was having asked one of her friends to point her out from among the few black women there. Soon afterward, she had the opportunity to escape her date. Nice man, but not the one she wanted. She left him talking sports with some of the men. 

Dani knew what Caroline was about and decided to humor her for a while. But with her increasingly painful headache, she thought she might well strangle her instead. 

"Both," she replied.

"I've known Tony and Lizzie for about eight months now. I actually met Tony first through Ryan," Dani answered sweetly. 

"Oh, you're Ryan's little friend," Caroline said in a condescending tone. 

Jessica started to interrupt, when Dani put out her hand and said, 

"No need Jess, I've got this."

In a low voice Dani said to Caroline,

"I was willing to play along with your childish little game, but I will not be disrespected. You know who I am, that's why you came hightailing it over here, probably as soon as you could dump your date. I'm not a child and I don't appreciate being called little in that tone. Although I'm Ryan's friend, I'm also his lover. A big girl like you should know what that means or have you developed memory loss?" Dani asked sarcastically. 

When Caroline started to reply, Dani said, 

"Save it. I really don't want to hear whatever it is you have to say. I know being dumped must have been hard on you, but you really shouldn't let it make you so bitter. If you'll excuse me, I'm going to find my man. I'll give him your regards."

Turning to her friends, she said, "I'll see you all later."

As Dani strolled away, she heard Carolina say, "How rude!"

"Shut up, Caroline," Monica retorted. 

Then she walked away, followed by the other women, leaving Caroline standing alone.

After the women walked away from Caroline in disgust, she realized that she'd under estimated Dani. She never thought the woman would pick up on her little jab let alone tell her off in front of everyone. She imagined, from what Karen told her, that Dani was a wallflower who let her sister fight her battles. 

Standing there alone, Caroline was well aware that instead of coming off victorious, she made a fool of herself. Not only that, but if she continued her behavior with regard to Dani, she would lose what little social status she had. That thought led her to the conclusion that she seriously needed a drink. 

Caroline waded through the crowd, barely returning greetings, and took a seat at the bar. After ordering and receiving a gin and tonic, she took stock of how she came to be where she was.

She knew that Ryan was serious when he said there was no chance of renewing their relationship. That really hurt; but if she couldn't have him, she wanted Dani to feel insecure about her relationship with Ryan and jealous of her. She still didn't understand what he wanted with a black woman, no matter how pretty or how everyone had so easily accepted her into their circle. 

But as she lingered at the bar and ordered a second and third drink, it began to sink in that Dani hadn't been the problem in her relationship with Ryan. He didn't leave her for another woman, it was all on her. That had been the deepest cut and the thing that she hadn't wanted to confront; Ryan just didn't love her, never had. . Caroline sighed, took another sip of her drink and tried to resign herself to the fact that Ryan was forever lost to her. 

While she lamented the loss of the battle and her love, Caroline knew at least one thing for sure; Ryan would never marry the woman. 

*

Dani did leave to seek out Ryan, but her headache was becoming more painful and she thought it best to take care of that first. She went to the bar to see if Dave had anything that might help. 

"Hey, Dave, do you have any Advil or Tylenol?" Dani asked.

"I'm getting a monster of a headache. I haven't had any alcohol," she quickly added.

"Good," Dave said. "I wouldn't recommend alcohol after taking these either. I always keep them on hand for myself. A barkeep's life is sometimes stressful," he added with a smile, reaching under the bar for the pills. 

"I hear you. It must be a laugh a minute hearing all the stories; or am I stereotyping bartenders?" she asked. 

"Nope, you're right. I have plenty of stories to tell, some you wouldn't believe. It's amazing what people are willing to tell a complete stranger as long as he's serving them alcohol." 

He poured out a glass of water and handed it to Dani. 

"Thanks," Dani said, then downed two pills with half of the water. 

"I'd best be getting back to the party."

Turning, she almost ran into Ryan. 

After steadying her with his hands on her forearms, Ryan pulled her to him, sliding his arm around her waist. 

With a frown he asked, "Are you all right, baby?"

Leaning on him, she said, "I'm ok, Ryan, I just have a sinus headache. I took some Advil; I should be fine once it kicks in."

"Do you want to go home?" he asked, lifting her chin with his finger to look into her eyes. 

Shaking her head, Dani said, "No. I'm sure I'll be fine, I just need to give the pills time to work."

"All right, but let me know if you need to go; Tony and Lizzie will understand," he assured her. 

"By the way, I saw you talking to Caroline. Is she in any way responsible for your headache?"

Dani shook her head before answering. 

"She's a pain, but in the other end. I'll tell you about it later. I was coming to find you when I decided I was in immediate need of something for my headache."

Placing both of her arms around Ryan's neck, she nuzzled his chest. 

"Ummmm."

"You sound like you're sleepy. Are you sure you don't want to go home. I could make some hot tea and put you to bed," he offered. 

"That sounds wonderful, but we haven't been here long. I really think I can make it through dinner which will be starting in a few minutes. I promise that I will let you know if I need to leave," Dani replied. 

Looking up at him with a sexy gleam in her eyes she said,

"I just love to snuggle with you. Tell me why I'm staying here and not going home to bed with you."

Ryan chuckled and pulled her along as dinner was announced. 

Thirty minutes later Dani was only picking at what was left of her food. She was starting to feel more fatigued and listless. Besides the headache, she was a little bit nauseated. She wasn't in distress, but she didn't want to take any chances. Running to the bathroom to vomit in the middle of a party wasn't in her plans. 

Turning to Ryan, she said in a whisper, "Ryan, I think I need to go home. I don't feel so well."

Looking at her with a frown of concern, he said, "Ok, baby. Let me tell Tony. I'll be right back." 

Walking around the large Table, he bent down and whispered in Tony's ear. Dani saw Tony nod and give her a small smile which she returned. 

Ryan came back and explained to those immediately around them that Dani wasn't feeling well and they were leaving. After they murmured their well wishes to Dani, she and Ryan left, navigating through the tables. 

The conversation at the tables was lively and boisterous which allowed them to leave without much notice. 

However, there was a pair of envious eyes marking their departure. 

Caroline wondered what was prompting their haste to leave. She felt her cheeks heat as she recalled that a number of times she and Ryan fled parties to rush home and make hot passionate love all night long. Even now, the thought of those nights was causing her vagina to throb and ache.

"Oh, fuck!" She thought as she felt her panties dampen. She glanced over at her date and knew he'd get lucky tonight. 

*

Ryan took Dani home and straight to the bedroom where she undressed while he got a gown from the large chest of drawers. He helped her into it and pulled back the covers on the bed. 

"I've got to take off my make up and brush my teeth," Dani said wearily. 

"All right, baby. I'm going to turn off the lights; do you want anything to drink?" Ryan asked.

"Water, please," she replied and turned to go to the bathroom.

"Ok, I'll get it," he said. 

"Get the thermometer out of the vanity," he called out. Before heading to the kitchen, he hung up her dress in the closet and placed her shoes on the closet floor. 

Ryan returned to find Dani sitting in bed under the covers. He put the water on the night stand and picked up the thermometer she'd placed next to the lamp. 

"Open wide, sweetheart," he requested. 

He put the thermometer under her tongue, waited for the beep, and then checked the reading.

"Ninety nine point two," he said.

He reached into the side table, got a pen and small pad making note of the time and temperature. It was in the range of normal, but he'd keep an eye on it.

"With your symptoms, baby, you might have more than a sinus headache. If you aren't better in another day, I think you should to go to the doctor."

Dani nodded. 

"If you need me during the night wake me, understand?" he asked. 

"Yes," Dani said with a weak smile. "Are you going to be like a mother hen now?"

"Oh, hell yeah," Ryan answered with feeling. 

Leaning down he pushed her hair back off of her forehead and kissed her there. 

"You're my woman and I mean to take care of you."

With a sigh, Dani sank down into the bed. 

Ryan went to the bathroom; when he returned, he undressed and got in bed behind her easing her into the spoon position. 

"Goodnight, sweetheart," he said as he placed a kiss on her nape. 

"Goodnight, baby," Dani whispered.

Minutes later, they both were asleep.

*





Dani didn't feel any worse the next day, but that night was fretful with her waking up every few hours coughing. Her face hurt, her throat was sore and she had a bad taste in her mouth. 

She awakened Ryan, but not intentionally. 

She apologized profusely and offered to sleep in the guest room. Ryan told her, in no uncertain terms, that it wasn't going to happen. Dani didn't argue because she really didn't want to be alone.

Ryan took her temperature again and recorded it.

"One hundred one point two degrees," he said. 

"Is there anything you want, baby?"

"A glass of water, please."

When he returned, she drank some of the water with two more Advil, which put her at the limit for a twenty four hour period. 

Dani knew that she had a sinus infection. She'd suspected it before now, but chose to deny it. She hated to go to the doctor, but knew she would need to sooner rather than later. However, she didn't see a need to tell Ryan, at least not at that moment.

She finished the water and snuggled back into his arms. 

The next morning Dani felt too sick to go to work. She probably could make it through the day, but didn't want to risk making mistakes. Ryan called and spoke to her boss, Mr. McClain, who wished her a speedy recovery and said she should take all the time that she needed. 

Before Ryan went to the bar, he left instructions with Dani to call him if she needed anything. She would have preferred not to bother him at work, but Crystal was out of town meeting Isaac's family.

*          

Dani's condition progressively worsened. She berated herself for not going to the doctor earlier, but regret was a little late. Just as she was reaching for the telephone to call the doctor, the phone rang, it was Ryan.

"Hello," she answered in a croaked voice.

"Hey, baby, you sound worse," he said.

"I think it's time that you went to the doctor. I'm coming home to take you. Call your doctor and let him know. If he can't see you, I'll call my doctor. Ok?" 

Ryan asked, but Dani knew that he would drag her there if need be.

"Ok, Ryan," she agreed. "I'll be ready." 




Ryan Ch. 06



"All right; I'm leaving here in about five minutes; I just need to let Dave know."

*

Once they got to the doctor's office, Dani gave them her information and sat down to be called. It didn't take long for which she was grateful; the other patients were looking at her like she had the black plague. 

Dr. Morgan confirmed the sinus infection and admonished her for waiting to come in. He gave her a ten day prescription of antibiotics and a prescription nasal spray along with a list of instructions. If she wasn't feeling better in a few days, he expected her to come back in. That edict was delivered with a stern expression. 

The doctor phoned the pharmacy with the prescriptions and Ryan picked them up on the way home. Dani followed his regimen, going back to bed immediately after she took her medication. 

Ryan called her office and spoke to McClain's secretary, giving her an update on Dani's condition. She was taking two weeks of her sick leave. 

*

When Dani woke up the next morning, she felt like she'd been run over by a truck. As she tried to focus she realized that Ryan was not in bed. Then she heard running water in the adjoining bathroom. 

Slowly she got up and trudged to the bathroom. It was the shower running, but she couldn't immediately see Ryan because the shower was in a recessed area of the large room. Looking in the mirror, she took in her flushed face, droopy eyes and wayward hair. 

"Eww!"

Finding a brush in the vanity drawer, she ran it through her hair to corral her wayward mane. 

When she got it under control she reached for her toothbrush, her mouth tasted foul. She applied a dab of toothpaste, but before she could get it to her mouth, the smell of the mint hit her and her stomach roiled. She couldn't make it to the toilet, instead she bent over and hurled right into the vanity sink, great gagging heaves. 

Ryan heard her and immediately turned off the shower. Stepping out, not bothering to wrap a towel around his body, he hurried over to Dani. Standing behind her, he wrapped his hands around her hair and held it away from her face and the bowl. 

Dani thought the inside of her stomach was going to come out of her mouth. She closed her eyes to keep from looking at the remains of her dinner. There was nothing she could do about the smell which made her want to hurl all the more.

When she was finished, Ryan turned on the cold water and she washed out her mouth. Still leaning over the bowl with her eyes closed, she felt Ryan rub her belly with one hand to soothe it, while his other hand still held her hair out of the way. 

"Ok now, sweetheart?" he asked. 

Dani nodded, straightened up and leaned back against him as he held her. 

"Eww, that's nasty," she said.

Chuckling, he said, "Yeah, been there, done that." 

"I called Micah to let him know that I'm not coming to the bar for at least a few days. He'll be on call for any major problems, other than that Dave can handle things. Jason will bring over the receipts for the week and I'll work on them here." 

"You really don't have to stay home, Ryan, I'll be ok." 

"I know if I weren't around, you'd take care of yourself, but I am around and I intend to take care of you. That's how it's supposed to be," Ryan told her resolutely. 

Looking in the mirror at him holding her, Dani tried not to tear up as she said, "I love you, Ryan Sinclair."

Kissing her neck, he replied, "I love you, Danielle Carter."

Dani let his warmth engulf her for a moment. 

"Ok, I need to brush my teeth and take a shower. Will you get me another gown please, you got me wet and not in a good way," she said giving him a weak little smile. 

"All right, but don't try to shower alone. I'll come back and help you after I put on a pot of coffee. Promise you'll wait." he said looking her straight in the eyes. 

"Ok, Mr. Mom, I'll wait," she said with some sass. 

"Good," he said and gently pinched her butt.

"Hey!" she croaked.

Ryan didn't reply, but rubbed her butt and kissed the top of her head before saying, "I'll be right back." 

After he left, Dani quickly brushed her teeth before her gag reflex engaged. She got a black elastic band from the vanity and used it to pull her hair into a neat ponytail, making sure not to tighten it too much. 

Satisfied that her hair wouldn't be a bird's nest when she woke up again, she waited for Ryan before taking a short warm shower. Once she was finished he helped her into a long cotton gown and she went back to bed. 

*



Three days later, Dani was feeling better. She was still fatigued and congested, but she could see the light at the end of the tunnel. She was breathing better and thankfully she'd gotten that horrible taste out of her mouth. 

Dani received a lot of calls from well wishers which mostly went directly to voice-mail. In the evenings, Ryan returned the calls for her except the ones from her family. She spoke to her mother and father and assured them that she was feeling better. She also kept Crystal up on her condition. 

According to her sister, Isaac was growing on their mother since he's shown that he's really serious about her. Crystal was happy and although she didn't say it, Dani believed her wild child sister was finally in love. 

James called several times and Dani spoke to him. 

*

A few days later, Dani was taking a nap when Ryan got home. 

He went to the bedroom to check on her and found her burrowed under the covers. Her breathing was steady and even. After kissing her forehead, he went to the kitchen to start dinner. Even though he had a restaurant at the bar, he liked cooking their meals at home.

Although Dani's appetite, which had been off, was slowly picking up, a light meal was still in order. He cooked homemade Garbanzo Bean Soup with smoked turkey sausage, along with some crusty bread. After he'd gotten the soup started, he sat on the sofa to read the newspaper.

He was sitting there when Dani got up an hour later. 

She approached Ryan, her hips swayed gently and he was amused that she was attempting to seduce him. She had on a sexy hot pink baby doll nightie with a matching satin robe, which she conveniently left open. She'd obviously freshened up and her hair, which was in a ponytail while she slept, fell softly around her shoulders.

When Dani got near she smiled and said, "Hey, baby, when did you get home?"

"I got home a little over an hour ago. I looked in on you and you were sleeping. I decided not to wake you, although you were awfully tempting."

"How are you feeling?" he asked.

Before answering, she sat down next to him and snuggled into his body with her legs pulled up on the sofa behind her. The scent of his cologne was doing things to her libido, not to mention just being close to him. 

"I still have a way to go before I'm completely well, but I'm doing a lot better," she said. 

"But..." she continued, letting the word linger between them, "there are some activities which I do believe I'm capable of performing now."

"Is that right?" Ryan countered running his hand down her back and cupping her butt. 

"Uh, huh," she said, giving him an impish grin. 

He softly kissed her on the lips and quickly deepened the kiss when she opened up. Feeling his desire rise, he eased Dani onto her back while still maintaining the kiss. Her legs unfolded and opened as he settled between them. 

Coming up for air, Ryan said with a grin, "Mmmmm, you taste like spearmint."

Dani returned his smile.

"Yeah, I took care of that before I came out. I was hoping I could get some nookie."

"Nookie? 

"Yeah, you know, some attention from little Ryan," she clarified with a smile. 

"I know what it means," Ryan said with a snort, "but I didn't think people were still calling it that." 

"Nookie?" he said again, laughing so hard he started tearing up. 

The word just struck him as hilarious.

With a little pout, Dani said, "Well, I guess that means you aren't interested."

Wiping his eyes and regaining most of his composure, Ryan declared, 

"You're not getting off that easily. I don't care what it's called, I'm getting some. It's been over a week and little Ryan, as you call it, wants to come home. Let's go to bed and get this show on the road." 

In the bedroom, Ryan and Dani quickly undressed. Dani got in the bed, lying on her back. Ryan crawled in from the bottom. 

"Feet flat, legs spread, baby. I'm like a starving man presented with a feast," he growled.

With a soft moan, Dani bent her knees, planted her feet on the bed and spread them wide. Her heart rate increased as Ryan approached and lay on his belly, giving himself full view and access to her feminine parts. 

Snaking his arms under her thighs, he looped his hands on top of them and pulled her body to him as he brought his head down. 

Dani could feel his warm breath on her mons, eliciting a groan from her parted lips. Hearing it, Ryan smiled and kissed her there, his senses reeling with the scent and heat of her arousal. Extending his tongue, he flicked her clitoris until her panting increase and he felt her hands pulling at his hair. Looking up at her, he untangled her fingers and held her hands down on the bed. 

Moaning in frustration, Dani tried pushing her bottom up in hopes of regaining contact, straining to get her hands out of his grip. But Ryan held her fast and bit her clitoris gently which brought forth a squeal from her. Raising his head, he looked her directly in the eyes and said huskily, "Keep them down and I'll make it worth it."

Taking his hands away, Ryan gave full attention to her moist slit. With his long middle finger, he entered her hot pussy. Once it was all the way in, he bought his mouth back to her clitoris, sucking and licking as he plowed her pussy with his thick digit. 

Dani's body bucked, but her hands stayed in place, gripping the sheets. She mewled as a rush of desire spiralled from her core upward to her breasts. Ryan stroked his finger in and out; slowly at first, gaining speed as her excitement grew. Soon another finger joined the first one, stretching her opening. 

In the large room, the sound of Dani's pants and groans seemed amplified along with the sucking noises from the fingers rocketing into her now juicy pussy. Ryan stayed the course, tasting the essence of her desire as he delved into each crevice, withdrawing his fingers and stiffening his tongue to fuck her like a little penis. 

Dani could feel the tightening in the steamy walls of her vagina portending the approach of her orgasm. Ryan's tongue and lips had the plump little nubby at the top of her sex throbbing and burning with the stimulation. A fine sheen of sweat covered her body as her hands clutched the sheets in an effort to keep them at her side. She needed to feel the rush of completion, but Ryan was going at his own pace.

Dani thrashed on the bed, her head rolling from side to side, her words unintelligible as Ryan brought her to the precipice of release and then eased her down over and over again. He played her body like a fine instrument with just the right touch of ebb and flow.

Just when she thought she would lose her mind, he got to his knees, flipped her over onto her belly and spanked her ass hard causing Dani to wail and her entire body to tremble.

Giving her another stinging swat, he ordered sharply, "Up on your hands and knees!"

Dani scrambled into position, mere moments from climax. Once she was set, Ryan spanked her again, in quick succession.

Whack!

Whack!

Whack!

Whack!

Whack!

Dani screeched and felt the quivering of her thighs threatening to unbalance her, her pussy tingling and quivering, her ass burning. With her orgasm imminent, Ryan gripped the base of his cock, pressed the head to her opening and rammed forward until the head and a few inches of his shaft popped inside. He grunted, but held still. 

Once he was sure that she could take more, he quickly slid the remainder of his cock into her passage and set up a sliding rhythm, gaining speed as his own orgasm approached. He hammered Dani's pussy, first with quick short jabs then long gut wrenching strokes until he felt her walls spasm, clutching his dick. 

When Ryan increased the speed of the long strokes, pistoning his cock into her over and over, Dani gave a shrieked of pleasure. Her walls tightened around his hard on as she tripped into climax, melting with long drawn out shouts of ecstasy. 

With his big body covering her moist back, Ryan continued to spear her aching swollen pussy. Not letting up, his hips rocked with long deep pounding strokes as his cock expanded and his own long overdue orgasm took hold. 

He pummeled her sweet spot as he released his hot load into her throbbing tunnel. Shot after shot of thick cream spewed forth as he hugged her body tightly to his, panting in her ear. Long wails of pleasure burst from Dani's strained throat, bouncing around the room, echoing Ryan's harsh grunts of pleasure and satisfaction.

It was a long time before either of them came down from the intoxicating high of their climax; long minutes while Dani stroked whatever part of Ryan's big frame that she could reach, long minutes while he touched and nibbled and licked her moist trembling body. 

Finally, Ryan pulled his softening cock from her body. Inch by glorious inch he enjoyed the warm pulsing of her core and felt the shiver of her body as the rim of the large gland tugged at her opening on its way out. 

"Damn!" he thought, "I love this woman." 

Rolling onto his back, he pulled Dani into his arms. There was no need for words; their fiery heat said it all. As their bodies cooled, their minds relaxed. Tired, but sated, they gave up consciousness for blissful slumber. 

Much later, they got up and ate dinner and spent the rest of the evening talking about their plans for Thanksgiving and James's visit. When they went back to bed, it was to cuddle and whisper soft sweet words. 



Ryan Ch. 07



Two days later, Dani woke up in the spoon position with Ryan kissing her neck. Groaning, she stretched and luxuriated in the warmth of his body and the gentleness of his kisses. 

"Good morning, baby," she murmured.

"Ummm, morning sweetheart," he returned while stroking her full breasts. 

Turning on her back, Dani looked up at Ryan and stroked her fingers through the short length of hair on the top of his head. He still wore the military style cut that made him look so commandingly sexy, but it had grown out a bit. 

"Last night was awesome," Dani said on a sigh.

"There's nothing like making up for lost time, but if we keep up that pace, I won't be able to stand up because my legs will have turned to mush. Not that I'm complaining."

Almost as soon as the words were out of her mouth, she gasped as Ryan gave his attention to the tips of her breasts. He sucked each nipple causing her to purr like a kitten. Arching her back, she was becoming lost in his loving when the telephone rang.

"Ryan," she said with a moan. 

"Let it ring," Ryan growled, continuing his assault on her body.

But the recorder came on and broke the mood.

"Hey Dani, I'm calling to remind you that my fight will be in at 11 o'clock today, your time."

"Damn! I forgot he was coming in today," Dani groaned and then hurriedly picked up the receiver. 

Flopping onto his back, Ryan grunted in exasperation.

"Hey, James," she answered, trying to calm her breathing.

"Hey, Dani; I know it's kinda early, but I wanted to make sure you didn't forget since you've been sick. We haven't talked in a couple of days, but I assume it's still ok to come," James said.

"Of course it's ok. It would be ok even if I didn't feel better, but it probably wouldn't have been pleasant for you. Boy, I was a mess." 

"I bet. I remember that you're more than a little cranky when you're sick," he reminded her.

"Yeah, yeah," Dani muttered.

"I didn't feel up to being cranky this time. Anyway, I'll be at the airport to pick you up at eleven."

"No," Ryan whispered from his position beside her. "I'll pick him up, baby."

Nodding, Dani said, "Ryan will pick you up, James."

"Oh. Ok Sis," James said, not wanting to admit that he was apprehensive about meeting the man in Dani's life.

"All right, baby Brother, I'll see you later. Bye."

After ending the call, Dani scooted down in the bed and curled up against Ryan.

"Thanks, sweetheart, I really wasn't looking forward to all that traffic. I'm so lucky to have you," she whispered, stroking his chest.

"It's not luck at all," Ryan said, "we were meant to be together. Loving you is as natural as breathing." 

Quickly changing position, he pulled Dani on top of his hard body and took her lips in a deliciously slow sensual kiss that left her breathless. 

"Now, where were we?" he asked with a wicked grin. * 

After Ryan left to pick up James, Dani reluctantly got up. She was still feeling the warm flush of afterglow, but staying in bed was out of the question. Technically, she was still sick, but she didn't want James's first sight of her in over a year to be of her lying in bed.

Aside from that, Dani didn't know how he and Ryan were going to get along. She ran through the possibilities in her mind, none of which were good. Growing frustrated, she realized that she wasn't going to get any rest. Struggling to a sitting position, she sighed and got up.

After changing the bed linens, she took a long warm shower and got dressed. Feeling refreshed, she thought she might be able to face whatever was to come. 

*

The ride from the airport was a revelation for James.

He'd already made up his mind not to like Ryan, so he started out with the silent treatment. When Ryan tried to engage him in conversation, he answered with as few words as possible. He didn't want to be outright rude, that would piss his sister off, but he didn't want to encourage him either. 

Ryan knew that James wasn't happy about Dani being with him and why. He wanted to have a good relationship with her brother, but race is what it is and as far as he was concerned James would just have to deal with it. He'd make the effort; anything else was up to James. 

Growing up, according to Dani, James never expressed any negativity toward other races. Although he was raised in a predominately black neighborhood and attended mostly black schools that wouldn't necessarily breed racism. Ryan thought there might be something more to his attitude. Whatever it was, he knew he had to get to the bottom of it. 

"James, there's something we need to talk about before we get to the house," Ryan said.

"What?" James asked, looking cautiously at the big man. 

"You seem to have made up your mind not to like me. I know that you've expressed your feelings to your sister about her dating a white guy. That's fine, if that's the way you feel, but whatever your attitude is towards me, I don't want Dani upset about it. Understand?"

"Yeah, I understand," James said, a little irked that Ryan was reading him. 

"Good. Now tell me why you feel as you do. If it's really my race, that isn't going to change; if it's something else, I'd like to know," he said glancing at James. 

"I'm not going to give you a hard time about your opinion," Ryan continued, "but I will tell you if I disagree and why. We can then agree to disagree. Anything you say to me will remain strictly between us; I don't want Dani in the middle. I love her and I won't allow anything to come between us. As far as I'm concerned, she's going to be with me until I take my last breath."

James was shocked at Ryan's confession which gave him pause to think. 

He hadn't expected Ryan to confront him about his attitude or reveal how he felt about Dani. The truth is, this guy was the first serious boyfriend his sister ever had. James thought it was just a phase, in which case, she might miss out on someone who was really right for her, like Marcus. But, he knew deep down that it wasn't the entire story. He wasn't proud of the reason, but Ryan was being honest and he needed to be honest with him. 

Looking at Ryan, James gulped and thought, "Damn, he's seriously big."

Gathering his courage, he answered.

"I know what I told Dani, but that wasn't all there was to it."

Ryan nodded and waited for him to continue. 

"Well, I went to high school with this girl named Ronda Evans. We dated for almost a year and a half. It got kinda serious. She was black," he said, slanting a glance to Ryan. 

"Anyway, I really liked her. I think I was in loved with her, but six months before graduation, she broke up with me. She said we were too young to be tied down. I was pretty bummed out about it, but kept it under wraps. My parents knew about the break up, but they thought it was just puppy love and that I was ok about it. They didn't know that our relationship was...was...more and I never let them know how I really felt."

"What happened after that?" Ryan asked.

"We ended up going to the same college and after a few weeks, we got back together. A couple of months later I found out she was seeing this white guy behind my back. One of her girlfriends was pissed at her and told me about it. Ronda confirmed it when I confronted her. "

"Did she meet him at school?" Ryan asked.

"She met him in high school. He went to a rival school," James sighed.

"She was on the cheerleading squad and met him at an away game. He was the quarterback of the other team. He was also the reason she broke up with me the first time. After that, she was on again, off again with him. She pretty much kept that on the down low."

"I was mad and hurt about the whole thing. It wasn't just that she cheated on me, we'd been friends since third grade and I realized that I never knew her. Anyway, I saw her from time to time around campus, but I got over it. At least that's what I told myself, but I guess I was in denial."

"When Dani told you about me, it all came back again?" Ryan surmised. "Yeah, it did, but I didn't want to tell Dani the whole deal with Ronda. Besides, the family didn't really care too much for her, especially my Mom. She thought Ronda was stuck up and was always putting on airs, as she called it. I tried to pretend that it didn't matter that we broke up, but I guess I still had a lot of resentment."

"Was that the only reason you objected to my relationship with Dani?" Ryan asked.

"Yeah, mostly, but I also thought Marcus would really be good for Dani," he said with a shy smile feeling more comfortable with Ryan. 

Then he took a deep breath and apologized.

"Hey, I'm sorry man. You seem like a nice guy. None of this was really about you. I just had some issues that I really wasn't dealing with. I could tell that Dani was happy with you. Now that I know how you feel about her, I'm cool with it." 

"Does this mean that you're going to give us a chance to be friends?" Ryan asked.

"Yeah, man. Like I said, I'm sorry and I really didn't mean to dump all of this on you." 

"Don't worry about it and I meant what I said; what you've told me is between us. If you want Dani to know, you tell her. We'll just see where things go from here, ok?" 

"Yeah, I'd like that. But, damn man, you're big," James said with a grin. 

*

Dani was on pins and needles wondering how James and Ryan were getting along. She knew that Ryan could handle anything James put out, but she really wanted them to like each other. James gave his word that he wouldn't say or do anything to offend Ryan, but he was young and sometimes impulsive. 

Dani knew that she'd missed a lot in the two years he'd been away at college. He was working hard to graduate in three years. To accomplish that he'd spent most of the holidays on campus while he completed extra courses and worked part time. Although they'd kept in touch by phone or Skype, it wasn't the same. 

James said very little about his college social life. The last person she heard anything about was Ronda whom he dated in high school. He said he didn't have time to date with his heavy college schedule and she'd left it at that. If there had been another girl, Dani wasn't sure that her brother would want to confide in her anyway. Even as a child James kept a lot of things to himself. Their mom use to call him her little man. He'd sometimes seemed more serious than he needed to be, but they'd given him his space. 

With an exasperated sigh, Dani decided that there was no benefit in brewing up trouble when there might not be any. She figured that her time would best be spent in the kitchen making lunch. James would be hungry, she was sure of that, and Ryan had left without breakfast because of their morning romp. 

* 

It was a half hour later when Ryan walked in with James. 

Dani was surprised that they were in a heated football discussion and James was actually smiling as he made a point. Apparently she'd wound her nerves up for nothing. She didn't know what happened, but she wasn't looking a gift horse in the mouth. Besides, she would get the details from Ryan after they were in bed. 

They were continuing their debate as they headed to the guest bedroom with James's luggage. 

"Hey, am I invisible," Dani called. She was slightly offended that she went unnoticed in the kitchen. 

"Oh, shit!" James exclaimed, "Sorry Sis, I was winning a point with Ryan and didn't see you."

"I noticed," she huffed.

Running over to Dani, James threw his arms around her and gave her a long tight hug.

"You know I love you, Sis. How are you doing?" he asked.

"I'm doing much better, thanks. Good to see you baby Brother. You look like you're filling out a little, in a good way. You've got muscles. Did you give up junk food?"

"Nah, I'm still eating it, just not as much. There are a couple of family style restaurants near the campus and they have food that reminds me of Mom's home cooking. I've gained about fifteen pounds, but my muscles are more defined because I'm working out at the gym every chance I get. I don't intend to give up sweets, but I don't want to run to flab either." 

"Ahem!" Ryan said. 

"Sorry to interrupt the love fest, but don't I get a hug, sweetheart?" he asked Dani.

"Ha! You were going to walk right pass me. I might have to think about giving you a hug." she retorted, then promptly lost her stern expression as she moved to him and pulled his head down for a kiss; a very long kiss.

"Ok, ok, I'm too young to see this," James protested. 

"Show me to my room, man."

Grinning, Ryan said, "In a second," then proceeded to kiss Dani again, with a little tongue this time. Well, a lot of tongue. 

Turning his back, James muttered, "Let me know when the porn show is over."

Breaking the kiss, leaving Dani flushed and a little embarrassed, Ryan looked over at James and said, "Kids!"

Walking over to James, he picked up one of the bags and grunted, "Come on, spoilsport."

After lunch they spent the rest of the afternoon getting caught up on James's college life. Without asking, James told Dani about his discussion with Ryan.

He said he knew, in retrospect, that his attitude was childish. Ryan wasn't that guy Ronda cheated on him with, but he'd let his insecurities get the best of him. He told her that he was sorry for ever bringing up the race thing. Dani accepted his apology, gave James a big hug and said that she was proud of him. 

After Dinner James called his parents and talked to them for over an hour. Then he and Ryan watched a football game on TV while Dani painted in her studio. She was actually getting quite good at watercolors, but didn't want anyone to see the picture before it was finished.

Ryan, being the considerate man that he was, gave her his den to use as a studio. The den was of considerable size, but rarely used since he had a separate office. Dani was reluctant to take up such a large space in his home, but Ryan insisted telling her that it was as much her home as his. How could she argue with that? 

The painting was on a 26 by 40 inch sheet of Arches 300 lb. cold press watercolor paper. She was a beginner in watercolor, but she put in a lot of time practicing before starting on the picture. There was only a few days work done before her illness; even so, she was progressing well and had a whole new appreciation for the medium. 

Keeping the painting a secret wasn't a problem. When Ryan gave her the space, he'd said that this was her domain and he wouldn't step foot over the threshold unless she invited him in. He was true to his word.

After Dani finished for the day she sought out Ryan and James. 

Ryan was on the sofa watching the news. James, having called it a night, had gone to his room. Dani sat on the sofa and snuggled up to Ryan, leaning on his shoulder. He lifted his arm and pulled her into his body.

"Looks like you and James have become fast friends," she said.

"Yeah, he's a good kid, but his choice in football teams sucks." 

Dani chuckled and explained her brother's love for the game. 

"James has always been for the home team, win or lose, the Bucs was it. When they won the Super Bowl he thought he had died and gone to heaven. His room at home is wallpapered with pictures from Sports Illustrated, and not the swimsuit edition. When football season started, he turned into a couch potato along with my Dad and his friends."

"Did he ever play little league ball?" Ryan asked.

Dani laughed at the question.

"What's so funny?" 

"Dad tried to get him into the pee wee league when he was ten, but James said, quote, 'No way. I'm too good looking, you know those guys are gonna try to hurt me.'

Snorting a laugh, Ryan asked, "He was kidding, wasn't he?"

"You'd think that, wouldn't you?" Dani replied with a grin. 

Stretching his arms over his head, Ryan said, "Well, I'm not kidding. I think it's time for us to go to bed."

He got up and pulled Dani along, heading to the bedroom where they slowly undressed each other. Dani sat on the bed as Ryan stood before her. 

Dani was always astounded at how beautiful his body was. His large frame provided the perfect support for his long muscles. As she bared his skin she caressed his shoulders with the palms of her hands, sliding them down over his chest where she kissed him just above his nipple, savoring the warmth of his flesh.

Gliding down to his abdomen, she felt Ryan's intake of breath as she progressed with tiny kisses. 

Sliding to her knees, she unzipped his pants, pulling them along with his briefs to the floor. She grasped his burgeoning penis in her hand to hold it out of the way while she explored the recesses of his belly button with her tongue. 

Ryan's hands massaged her scalp as the tip of her tongue follow the light treasure trove of silky blond hair that surrounded his cock. His shaft hardened and swell as Dani licked around the base. 

"Fuck, baby. Yeah...yeah....fuck, yeah...lick my balls, baby...lick 'em," Ryan groaned. 

Before heeding his request, Dani squeezed his cock, licking her lips as she watched the spurt of pre-cum from the big slit. Ryan grunted and his hands in her hair gripped harder. Leaning forward, she took one of his balls into her mouth, then the other, sucking even as her tongue painted patterns on the spicy orbs. All of her senses were reduced to the taste, smell and feel of this man. With her eyes closed, she hummed softly as she continued to alternately nibble and soothe Ryan's ball sac until he pulled her head back by her hair.

"Look at me," he ordered in a hoarse whisper, "I want to see your eyes. I want you to see me while you're giving me pleasure."

Dani opened her eyes, her lusty gaze watching Ryan's face contort with his arousal. The words and the tone of his voice elicited a flood of cream from Dani's throbbing pussy, covering her labia and inner thighs. She moaned around his hot sac as she reached down to finger her saturated pussy. 

Sliding two fingers into her tunnel, Dani continued to suck and lick Ryan's scrotum, continued to nip with her lips, pulling on the skin as he held her head to his body.

"Dani, baby...l..... Ahhhh, shit; so good, baby." 

Shifting her body, Dani licked up the long length of his cock in broad sweeping strokes, tickling under the rim of the head and then sliding her tongue back down. Again and again she followed that route until Ryan was dying for her to suck the head. 

But Dani was in the mood to tease and kept her mouth away from the large weeping gland. She went back down to his balls as she stroked the shaft. She kissed and licked and sucked until Ryan was desperate. 

"Please, baby... no more... no more; I...need...fuuuuuuck!" he wailed, as she suddenly enclosed the crown of his cock in her hot mouth with a great sucking motion.

The top of his head felt like it had blown off as his balls contracted and his seed rushed up the thick shaft flooding her sweet mouth. 

"Oh, fuck...oh, fuck, baby, swallow it. Swallow my cum. fuck yeaaaaah!" Ryan shouted. 

Dani swallowed as fast as she could as volley after volley of warm semen shot into her mouth, but it came too fast for her to catch it all as some oozed from the corners of her mouth to paint her chin.

When the spurting stopped and Ryan's grip eased on her hair, Dani pulled off of his cock, scooping up the runaway cum from her chin and licking it off of her finger as he watched. 

Smiling up at him, she took his cock head back into her mouth, rimming it with her tongue and then pulling off to kiss the slit. 

"Shit! That is so fucking hot," he growled. 

Lifting her chin with his fingers, he ordered, "Open your mouth, sweetheart."

Dani opened her mouth and Ryan grunted as he saw the faint residue of his ejaculate. Helping her to her feet, he kissed her deeply, his tongue foraging into the sweet cavern tasting his essence and the sweetness that was purely Dani. 




Ryan Ch. 07



"I love you, baby, more than I ever thought I could love anyone outside of my family, but you are my world. You're all my dreams and hopes for the future. Fuck, sometimes I feel like a school boy with his first love, but I never want to lose this feeling. I never want to lose the intensity of this love."

He kissed her again, feather soft, breathing in her quivering sighs. Looking into his dark green eyes, Dani knew that this was the man destined to be hers. This was the beginning and end of her romantic dreams, her sexual birth. Ryan was the man of her heart and soul.

"I love you so much, Ryan, so very much. Sometimes, I'm overwhelmed with it and always amazed that you love me too. I never thought I would have someone like you in my life." 

"Always, sweetheart, always," he promised.

Taking her up in his strong arms, Ryan laid her on his bed, their bed, and made deliciously sweet love to her. 

* 

Ryan awakened in the wee hours of the morning to the soft rustling of Dani's breath against his skin as she slept. She was stretched out on top of him, her face turned into his neck. His cock long since slipped from the comfort of her moist walls, a position it held when they fell asleep. 

He smiled thinking about how sexually inexperience she'd been when he first met her. But that hadn't lasted long, they were just too hot for each other; not only that, they were connected. Like now, he could feel her love, almost like he could reach out and touch it.

Dani's body was attuned to his; he knew that on an elemental level. She gave him sexual satisfaction as no other woman had, but it was more than physical. Sensual love between them not only engaged his physical body, but the part of him that represented his spirit, his soul. It was this connection that pulled him and held him to her. 

As he lost himself in thought, Ryan stroked Dani's warm sweet body. He slid his hand down to that awesome ass, over those sexy mounds and down to slide a finger into her moist pussy from the rear. Many times it only took the sight of her bottom to stoke his fires. Then with a stroke of his fingers, all of his senses were on board. 

He'd always been an ass man, but damn, what an ass Dani had. That beautiful toffee colored skin covering perfect round globes. The plump firmness had just the right amount of jiggle and provided a soft cushion for his pubes when he fucked her from behind. This was too sexy to be called a derriere, it was an ass. 

"Shit!" he grunted when he felt the muscles in his belly ripple with his arousal. His dick was hardening and wanted attention. He continued to stroke the folds of Dani's pussy as she was slowly pulled from slumber by the tingling of her nether regions. 

Ryan's hand slid to the top of her ass, and then he eased a finger into the heated valley, searching for her puckered anus. Slowly he stroked it with his finger, until Dani was fully awake, pushing back against his hand. 

"Ryan," she moaned wanting more. 

Ryan removed his finger and gave her butt a sharp swat, then grabbed both of her buttocks in his hands, squeezing, lifting and separating them, dragging a whimper from her throat. 

"Tell me what you want, baby?" he urged, humping, rubbing his throbbing cock against her mons. "You want this big ol' thing, sweetheart? You want my cock in your sweet little pussy?" 

"Yesssss," Dani hissed. 

"I want your cock. I want you in me," she whined. 

"All right, sweetheart," he murmured. 

"I always give you want you want, don't I, baby? Just sit up and eased down on this big boy."

Dani sat up and straddled Ryan's body.

He held his cock at the base while she eased the head into her throbbing pussy. Once she got the head in, she eased all the way down, slowly taking his entire length. Catching his breath, Ryan grunted as he felt her walls rub against the big vein riding the underside of his cock. 

"Fuck!" he shouted as she started to ride him in earnest, picking up speed as her desire swelled. Riding with desperation to her release, Dani pulled Ryan along with her. With her hands on his chest, she anchored and rode her man hard. Up and down she bounced, squeezing her muscles around his burning cock, rotating her hips, chanting his name in a mantra as the friction of their joining burned in her deep places.

"Ryaaaaan!" she screamed as the walls of her pussy clinched and spasmed and her orgasm sparked and shimmered. Then, careening over the edge, she sent him hurling with her into the orbit of sexual bliss. As he grunted through his orgasm, Ryan's baby makers spilled in burst after burst of warm rushing cream. 

For a time, there was only gasping and panting as they sought air to fill their over taxed lungs. Finally, slowly, they floated back to earth while he stroked Dani's back and whispered words of love.

As they luxuriated in the warmth of afterglow, Dani suddenly sat straight up with Ryan's cock still embedded in her. With an urgent gasped, she said,

"Oh, my god, I hope James didn't hear us."

Laughing, Ryan said, "It's a little late to think about that, besides, he's on the other side of the house.

"I don't know, Ryan," she said, still not convinced.

"We were pretty loud. I forgot he was even here." Dani said, looking behind her. She gulped when she saw that they'd forgotten to close the bedroom door. 

"Damn! The door is open," she squeaked. Jumping off of his cock with a little popping sound, and a grunt from Ryan, Dani ran to close the door and lock it. 

Still unconcerned, Ryan said, "Isn't that a little like closing the barn door after the cow has gotten out? He's a big boy, if he heard anything, I'm sure he realized what it was." 

Ryan knew those words wouldn't please Dani, but he loved seeing her freak out sometimes. 

Glowering at him, she said, "That's the point, Mr. Sinclair." 

Coming back to the bed, she crawled in and cuddled up to him. Once she was settled he kissed the top of her head. 

"I don't know how I could have forgotten to close the door," she sighed.

"We don't close the door when it's just us," Ryan said.

"This is the first time we've had a guest stay over since we've been together. It was an easy thing to forget. It's a big house, I doubt if he could hear anything, even if he were awake and his door was opened too." 

"Yeah, you're right. I doubt that he left his door open. Why did you let me freak out like that?" she pouted prettily.

"You have this thing about people hearing us have sex. It's the most natural thing in the world. Anyway, how can you blame me? You were off of my dick before I could say anything, leaving Mr. Happy feeling very unhappy," Ryan complained. 

"Now that the little drama is over, think about how you're going to make it up to me, um, to him," he said with a sly grin.

*

The next few days with James were enjoyable.

James was interested in the bar, so Ryan took him with him for the day. The time they spent together gave Dani the opportunity to work on her painting without feeling like she was taking time away from her brother. There was a long way to go, but it was definitely shaping up. She hadn't said anything to Ryan about the painting primarily because it was going to be gifted to him. 

* 

All too soon, it was nearing the time for James to leave and go on to their parents' home in Jacksonville. Ryan invited Isaac and Crystal as well as several of his friends over for a barbecue to send him off. James elected to drive to Jacksonville, since it was only a three and a half hour trip. 

By the time he left, Dani was through with her antibiotics and she felt almost as good as new. She made arrangements to go back to work the Monday after Thanksgiving, which was a week away. Although she was looking forward to getting back to her routine, she wasn't looking forward to all the work that they typically received this time of year. 

With the holiday approaching, she had to make a decision about where she would celebrate it. After thrashing it out in her own mind, she came to the conclusion that there was no place she'd rather be than with Ryan. It really was an easy decision; it was telling her parents that gave her some pause. In the end, they were very understanding and satisfied with her promise that she and Ryan would come to Jacksonville for Christmas and spend a couple of days. 

They would ring in the New Year with a quiet evening at home. * 

The next few days were a whirlwind of activities. Although Dani wasn't going to cook Thanksgiving Dinner at home, she did volunteer to help Ryan's mother and sister cook the big meal. The only person not attending the festivities was Amber, Caleb's girlfriend. She was away on another overseas business trip.

Armed with a shopping list, Dani and Haley headed for the supermarket. Even though it was yet several days before Thanksgiving, the supermarket's parking lot was nearly full at eight o'clock in the morning. Neither of them loved grocery shopping and at this time of year it was always a pain, but doing it together would make it less of a chore. 

With their help, Helen was left free to do the decorations, which she loved. In fact, she tended to go all out for most of the holidays. 

Haley told Dani with a grin, "Don't be surprise if you see some actual live Pilgrims among the decorations." 

Dani thought that was a hoot since her mother was the same. Growing up, Thanksgiving was a great time in the Carter household with Dani's mother always mindful to include friends who didn't have family close by.

* 

Dani was rounding a corner heading to aisle seven when she caught sight of a man that looked familiar. She could only see him in a side view, but when he turned, she caught a full facial view and recoiled. She really thought she'd seen the last of this guy. 

The guy was Keith Hall.

Dani met him through his mother who was a good friend of her parents. He came to Florida following the death of his father who raised him in California. With no other family around, Keith decided to see if he could reconnect with his mother.

Keith was only in Tampa a couple of weeks when his mother confided to her friend, Michelle, that she thought Dani would be a good influence on her son. She admitted that she and Keith hadn't spent a lot of time together and she was finding it disconcerting trying to get to know her son as a grown man. 

When Dani's mother broached the subject, Dani thought he sounded liked a really nice guy and that it might be fun to go out with him. 

Their first time out, a dinner date, went well. Keith was smart, articulate, engaging and good looking. He had a good sense of humor and liked many of the same things that she did. He told her that he was an only child and admitted that his had father spoiled him. They talked about some of their back history. 

His mother, Rita, lived in LA when she got pregnant. She was young and without means to care for him without her parents' support. Her mother and father were appalled at what they called her loose morals and insisted that she give the baby up for adoption. But rather than send him to live with strangers, she'd given custody to Keith's father who, with the help of his mother, raised Keith. 

A year after Keith's birth, his mother and her family moved to Fresno, but Rita kept in touch, though he rarely saw her over the years. His Grandmother passed away when he was seventeen, leaving a big hole in his heart. 

Keith graduated high school and college then got a job with Sirias Technologies in San Diego. He made a good salary, but wasn't satisfied with his progress with regard to promotions. When his father died, it wasn't hard to leave it all behind.

* 

On their second date, they went to the movies. Keith not only liked movies, he was also keenly interested in the process of film making. He was eager to share his knowledge and found Dani an earnest listener. 

They had a wonderful time and afterward went to a nearby bar where they spent the evening talking. Neither of them were heavy drinkers, but they enjoyed the atmosphere of the bar which had a live band. 

They ended the date with a kiss on her doorstep. It was a long kiss that they both enjoyed it. Although no sparks went off for Dani, it was sweet. She liked him and that transferred through the kiss. Keith prolonged the kiss until Dani pressed his chest slightly and pulled back. With a peck on her cheek, he said goodnight and that he'd call her soon.

Dani enjoyed spending time with Keith as they continued to get to know each other. They went on a few more dates, including double dates with Dani's best friend Trina and her boyfriend, Quincy. 

After dating about a month, she noticed slight changes in Keith's demeanor. He started questioning her about what she did when they weren't together. He hadn't liked her being out having a good time with her friends. He also started pressing Dani to go further than just kissing and light petting, which made her uncomfortable. 

Dani thought it was way too soon to be dropping her panties for anyone, even it she really wanted to have sex with them. Keith didn't arouse feelings in her to that extent and his change in attitude was worrisome. 

She was honest with him and told him that she liked him very much, but she didn't think the relationship was going to go beyond friendship. She made it clear that he could date other people. He hadn't liked that, but said that he'd accept that if it was all she wanted.

Dani wasn't experienced and tended to take people at face value. She thought if she were honest with them, they'd be honest with her. What she hadn't known was that Keith didn't like the fact that she was calling the shots. In his mind, it was the man who set the tone of the relationship. 

Despite Dani's best efforts Keith became more and more possessive. First it was just little things. Sometimes he'd drop by the house unexpectedly. Dani was living at home at the time, but he seemed to always drop by when her parents were out. She hadn't liked him showing up like that and told him so. After that, he called and asked permission. If she said no, he didn't press the issue.

Dani still liked Keith, but there was something niggling in the back of her mind. She really thought Keith understood and didn't take his lapses seriously at first. Her parents liked Keith too. They thought he was a nice young man and tried to encourage the relationship, but it was starting to give Dani a funny feeling. But despite her misgivings she continued to date Keith willing to give him the benefit of the doubt, however the lapses continued. 

On one particular occasion Dani was talking to a former classmate in the parking lot at a local hangout when Keith suddenly showed up and put his arm over her shoulders asking to be introduced to the guy. After the second time that happened, she began thinking of a way to end her association with him without hurting his feelings. He still was really a sweet guy most of the time. 

The last straw was when Keith got in a snit during a game of flag football at the park. He thought she was paying too much attention to one particular guy. The guy had some great moves, which would have been hard not to appreciate. But Keith felt threatened because at one point the guy looked over and smiled at Dani. Dani hadn't returned the smile, but that didn't matter to Keith. 

"So what, you like him now?" Keith asked, clearly pissed.

Looking at him as if he'd lost his mind, Dani asked, "What in the world are you talking about?"

"You know damn well what I'm talking about. You were practically drooling over that guy," he retorted.

"Look, I don't know what's gotten into you, but you don't own me. Further, I was not drooling over him. He has some amazing moves, excuse me if I like watching him rip the defense apart. Since when is that a crime?" she asked in a low strained voice, equally pissed. 

Calming herself, she said, "Why don't we just leave. I'm not going to have any fun after this."

After giving her a long look, Keith headed back to the car without saying another word.

After they got back to Dani's home, he tried apologizing, but it was too late. Dani knew she was avoiding the inevitable, had been for weeks. She should have believed him when he said his father spoiled him because he was acting like a spoiled child now. 

She got out of the car and told Keith not to bother seeing her to the door. He apologized profusely, telling her that it wouldn't happen again. Dani accepted his apology, but told him that she didn't think it was a good idea for them to see each other. 

Lightning quick, Keith got angry again and called her a bitch and a tease. He'd said no man would want her because she'd freeze his balls off. 

That was it.

Dani let her temper get the best of her and said, "What woman is going to want you, you spoiled ass daddy's boy?" 

Afterward, she was shocked by her lack of control. After all, his father was dead. But she didn't take it back, she was that mad. She turned on her heels and went into the house, slamming the door shut and locking it. 

That was the last time she saw Keith. 

A short time later, they heard from his mother that he'd gotten a job and relocated to Gainesville. She never told her parents or Crystal what ended the relationship; they just assumed that it was his job. After that, Dani was a little more cautious with men, until Ryan. 

* 

Now, here Keith was in Publix Supermarket a few days before Thanksgiving. She just hoped he wouldn't see her. 

Dani turned away quickly bumping into Haley. 

"Hey, what's the matter?" Haley asked, seeing Dani's agitation.

Before Dani could answer, she heard, "Hey, Dani." 

Too late.

Turning, she put on the best plastic smile that she could muster and returned the greeting. "Hi, Keith, it's been a while," she said as he approached.

"Yeah. I'm still with the job in Gainesville, but I'm here for some training. I'll be in town for a few weeks, maybe we can hook up sometime," he said.

Feeling Haley move at her side, Dani said, "I'm sorry, Haley, I forgot my manners. Haley, this is Keith Hall. We dated for a while a couple of years ago."

"Keith, this is my friend Haley Chase. She's also my boyfriend's sister," She said, wanting him to ditch any idea of their ever dating again. They ended on bad terms, but it didn't seem to have affected him. She hoped that meant he had gotten over the attitude problem because there was no chance of even a friendly cup of coffee between them. 

"So, you're dating a white guy now, huh?" he said, but immediately checked himself, his glance sliding to Haley. 

"Sorry, I didn't mean any offense."

"None taken," Haley said, but she didn't like the guy, especially with the vibes she was getting from Dani. 

"Well, we have a long list to get through, Keith. It was nice seeing you again. Give my regards to your mother," Dani said and pulled Haley away. 

"I don't like him," Haley said when they were some distance from Keith.

"That makes two of us," Dani agreed. 

Giving Dani a little frown, Haley said, "I mean, he seems nice and all of that, but it's just the way he looked at you, especially when you mentioned a boyfriend. He tried to hide it, but I saw it. He didn't like that at all." 

Looking directly at Dani she asked, "What's the story with him? I know there's more."

Sighing Dani said, "You're right, there is more, but let's just leave that for another time. I don't want him spoiling my holiday spirit. We'll talk later, ok? And please, don't say anything to Ryan about meeting him."

"All right, that's for you to tell him, if you feel the need," Haley agreed.

"Thanks. I will tell him, but after Thanksgiving."

"Ok, Dani. Onward we go," Haley said with a smile, hooking her arm through Dani's. "Let's finish up and head over to my folks." 




Ryan Ch. 07



* 

The Thanksgiving dinner at Ryan's parents' went off without a hitch. Everyone was in a great mood and the food was delicious. The house was warmly decorated with all the icons of Thanksgiving, but no live pilgrims. 

Earlier that morning, Dani put in a call to her parents. James and Crystal were having dinner with them, so she was able to wish them a happy Thanksgiving at the same time.

Her parents invited the Millers with their brood of eight, as well as Mr. and Mrs. Thompson and The Reverend Green, who was a widower. Crystal, who was a great cook and Mrs. Thompson, helped with the food preparation. Isaac was spending the day with his girls at his parents' home.

After dinner, Ryan and the other men watched one of the NFL games while the women cleaned up and packed up leftovers. The men did offer to help, although not with a lot of enthusiasm. The women shooed them out knowing that they would get in the way more than help.

It was after eleven p.m. when Ryan and Dani got home. After showering together, amid a lot of kissing and caressing, they got into bed. Ryan used the remote to dim the lights, creating a sensual ambiance in the room.

After settling Dani under him, he held his upper weight on his forearms. Lowering his head, he softly kissed her, slipped his tongue between her lips, caressing her tongue with his.

Dani murmured, "Ummmm," and spread her legs to accommodate his body. 

Rubbing his leg with the inside of her foot, she arched her back. 

Ryan smiled down at her and said, "I've almost forgotten the time when you were my shy little Dani.

"As I recall, I was never really shy with you, except for that time in Lowes when we first met. I couldn't just make out with you on aisle 15 now, could I?" she asked. 

Brushing her hair back from her forehead, he replied,

"I wouldn't have minded. Although you might well shudder to think what the folks at Lowes would have made of it. I can hear it now, 'Man down on aisle 15! Man down on aisle 15!'

"That would have been great," he sighed, "and don't think I would have stopped. I would have been sliding into home plate long before the police arrived. The story would have ended up as headline news and I would have been the envy of men everywhere. 

"Wanna go back to Lowes and make my dream come true?" Ryan asked with a grin. 

"There it is, his sexy dimple winking at me again," Dani thought. She wondered how something as simple as that could take her breath away. 

"No can do, sweetheart. I'm already trying to beat the women off with an ugly stick. If a picture of little Ryan showed up in the papers, I'd have to put your sexy ass in something like a witness protection program," she declared.

Kissing the tip of her nose, he said huskily, "You'd have to come with me, baby. There isn't a chance in hell that I'm going anywhere without you. Not now, not ever." 

Dani rubbed her nose against his and kissed him while stroking his hard buttocks.

"Ummm, I like that. I like when you get all possessive. I never thought it was such a desirable quality before," she said ending on a sigh.

Stroking her cheek, he reasoned, "There are different kinds of possessiveness and reasons for it. You're probably thinking about the kind that's about control and jealousy. I am totally possessive in the sense that I'm territorial. You're mine; no one messes with what is mine, man or woman." 

"Then there are men who are dominating too. I'm dominating by nature. I'm a big guy and I'm confident. I'm use to being a leader and use to having my way. But that doesn't mean I dominate women in the sense of making them fearful or taking away their rights as individuals."

"I always feel safe and protected with you, Ryan. I know men can be controlling sometimes, but you've never been that way with me," Dani asserted. 

"I know some men who are like that," he said. "There is nothing good in that for the women or them; and there's certainly nothing that would benefit the relationship. All that's about is power. Power over the woman does not equal love, anyone who says different, is a liar." 

"As for the jealous part, that has all kinds of troublesome connotations. Jealousy without reason is just insecurity. I'm not saying I couldn't ever be jealous, but I don't think I would be without reason and I'm damn sure you are never going to give me reason. You're crazy about me," he said with a growl. 

"Oh my, you're so humble, who knew?" She said with a saucy grin. 

"Well, how am I supposed to be humble when I have a sexy woman who loves me as much as you do? Knowing that I'm your man, makes me feel ten feet tall, baby. Besides that, it makes my dick hard," he said before rolling her on top of him.

Sitting astride Ryan, Dani blinked back the tears stinging the back of her eyes. She looked down at her gorgeous man and her heart swelled. She had no idea what she'd ever done in her life to deserve this man, but she was thankful every day for the blessing. 

She smiled and reached behind her for Ryan's already hard cock, stroking the pre-cum up and down the hefty shaft. Then she rose to her knees as she directed his manhood home. 

For long hours into the night, Ryan and Dani engaged in the dance of lovers until both were sated, until they were renewed by their sensual vow of love.



Ryan Ch. 08



A week later everything was back to normal. Dani was back at work and feeling great. Crystal was home and James was back at school; but Ryan us up to something. Dani hadn't a clue what it was, but he'd asked her not to make any plans for the weekend. They'd talked about going on a dinner cruise for a romantic evening, but that was a few weeks ago and Ryan hadn't mentioned anything more about it. 

* 

A few days later Dani and Ryan were having a leisurely night at home watching movies on DVD when she decided to broach the subject of their plans for the weekend during a commercial break. She was too excited to be subtle about it. 

"Ryan, when are you going to tell me what you're up to?"

"At the appropriate time," he said, his eyes twinkling. 

"Aw, come on, you know I can't stand waiting," Dani complained.

"Yes, I know my love, but you do like surprises. You wouldn't want to spoil it by knowing ahead of time, would you?" he asked as he absently stroked her thigh.

"Well, I guess not," she conceded reluctantly, laying her head against his shoulder.

"It's not the dinner cruise is it?" she asked with an impish grin. 

Laughing at her persistence, Ryan said, "I'm not telling you, so just be patient."

Dani was silent for a moment, then sexily rubbed her breasts against his arm and asked, "Are you sure you don't want to tell me?"

Not waiting for an answer:

"Pretty, pretty please," she entreated while stroking his cock into firmness.

The next thing Dani knew, Ryan was on top of her, kissing her voraciously and grinding his hard on into her thigh trapped between his legs. 

His oral mastery was thorough and Dani struggled to catch a breath as she withered and clawed at his back as he plowed her mouth. She counter attacked sucking and biting while trying to rip his clothes from his body. 

When Ryan finally came up for air, he smiled at her and said calmly, 

"Don't think that I'm going to let you use your sexual wiles to get information. I'm just not that kind of a guy." 

Dani stared at him, and then blinked. The look of shock on her face was priceless.

She was so stunned at the cessation of their tongue duel that she didn't fully comprehend what he was talking about. Then slowly a smile spread across her face. 

"Once you shoved your tongue into my mouth, I forgot what the hell we were talking about," she admitted unabashedly. 

Ryan dropped his head down to her shoulder and within seconds he was quaking with laughter. 

Dani joined in laughing until she cried. 

After that, she didn't try to wheedle any information from him. She was curious, but he was right; she would have been disappointed if the surprise was spoiled.

Still her efforts weren't in vain. That night Ryan spanked her into ass warming bliss. She even demanded a second round for being a very, very naughty girl. 

* 

The next evening Ryan was preparing dinner with Dani sitting at the breakfast bar when she suddenly shrieked, "Oh, my God, I forgot about Christmas!"

"No need to worry, baby, it's still coming," Ryan grinned.

"That's not what I meant, Ryan Sinclair, and you know it," Dani huffed indignantly. 

"I know it's coming, that isn't the problem. The problem is that so much has been going on that I forgot to even write my list. I'm usually done with all of that by now. It's the sixth already." "You still have a lot of time," Ryan said taking a seat next to her. 

"Yeah, but I hate malls," Dani moaned. 

"There's an easy solution," Ryan said.

"I'm listening."

"Now that we are together my folks consider you a member of the family. In our family everyone puts their name in a bowl and whoever gets your name buys you a present. That takes care of having to run around like crazy people dodging the mall crowds and traffic."

"Hmm, that actually sounds like a good idea, especially for a large family," Dani said, losing some of the feeling of panic.

"I could see how the gift giving could get out of hand if you didn't do something like that."

"Yeah," Ryan agreed.

"We went through a few of years of over indulgence before my Mom and Dad put a stop to the madness. We have a large extended family and it was just way too much."

"What about everyone else?" Dani asked.

"We can buy everything on-line and request express shipping. If something comes in and you or I don't like it, we'd still have time to buy something locally which wouldn't take nearly as much time. As for gifts to our mutual friends and your parents, we'll buy them together as a couple."

"All right, it sounds like a plan." Dani agreed thinking that Ryan lived up to the nickname Crystal gave him, Mr. Fix It. 

* 

It was Friday afternoon and Dani was finishing up a letter dictated by her boss when Ryan called on her cell phone.

"Hey, Ryan, what's up?"

"Hi, sweetheart; when you get home, pack a bag for two days, casual stuff. Oh, and a bikini. We're leaving at seven." 

To say Dani was flabbergasted would be an understatement. For a moment she was speechless.

"You still there, baby? Ryan asked.

"Yes, I'm still here, I just didn't think things would go down this fast. Ok, I'll be packed and ready to go; anything else?"

"No, that's it. I'll give you more details later or maybe not," he teased.

"Grrrrr, you beast!" Dani barked.

"Only for you, baby. I'll wrap up things here and see you at home."

"All right, Ryan. I love you," Dani whispered.

"Love you too, angel. Bye."

Dani quickly wrapped up the letter and put it on Mr. McClain's desk. He was already gone for the day, but before leaving he gave her permission to leave as soon as she finished.

Before going home, she stopped at her place to pick up a few things. 

She got to her condo around four thirty and immediately went to her walk-in closet where she pulled out a suitcase and a travel size make up bag. She then took a shower and changed into a pair of red jeans and a gray and red pullover top. After filling the suit case, she locked up and headed to the place that was now home. 

Once she got there, she went to the closet in the master bedroom and packed a few other things, including some personal hygiene items and sunscreen. Even though she didn't have a clue as to where they were going, she knew one thing; there would be water somewhere near, either in the form of a pool or the beach. 

* 

Ryan came through the living room as Dani walked out of the bedroom. He was removing his shirt when he looked up and saw her.

"Hi, baby, all packed?" he asked. 

Seeing her nod, he replied, "Good. I need a quick shower, and then we can hit the road."

"Care to tell me where we're going now?" Dani asked, forgetting her promise not to ask any more questions.

"Ummm, no," Ryan said resolutely.

He stopped in front of her and planted a kiss on her forehead before heading to their bedroom.

While Ryan was in the shower, Dani called to let Crystal know that she would be out of contact for the weekend.

"Hey, Dani, I was thinking about calling you," Crystal said. 

"Isaac's spending some time with Briana this weekend. She's been acting up and he figured she might need more daddy time. I thought we could do something tomorrow, if you weren't busy."

"I would love to do something any other time Crystal, but Ryan and I are going away for a couple of days. That's why I'm calling. He hasn't given me a clue as to where we're going, except to tell me to pack something casual and a bikini. 

"Oh, wow. Mr. Fix It is so romantic." 

"Yes, he is romantic, but closed mouth. I don't even know what accommodations we'll have when we get there," she said. 

Then she confided, "I keep trying to find out what Ryan's doing, but I still want it to be a surprise. It must be a sickness Crystal. "

"Nah, you've been like that since you were a kid. Christmas was the worse for you."

"Yeah, I remember." Dani sighed.

"I'm sorry about this weekend, Crystal, but could you give Mom and Dad a heads up. I don't want to call because you know Mom, she'll wrangle me into a long conversation."

"Ok, Sis, I'll do that. Have a good time and tell Mr. Fix It I said hi," Crystal chortled.

"All right, I will," Dani said. "Bye and thanks."

Dani went back to the bedroom to see if Ryan needed any help. 

She was sitting on the bed thinking about their trip when he came out of the bathroom, naked. She enjoyed the sight of his hard muscled body and the pleasure it gave her. Following the light trail of blond hair down to his big cock, she gasped, always in awe of his endowments. Even soft, it was big. She lamented that there wasn't enough time to indulge her ever present desire. 

Hearing Dani's gasp, Ryan smiled at her as he went over to the chest of drawers and got a pair of black briefs and socks, giving her a front row view of his awesome ass and broad muscled back. She licked her lips and imagined kissing him all over. Unaware of her lustful thoughts, Ryan went into the closet. He came out dressed in a pair of black slacks with a dark gray long sleeve pullover shirt and carrying a suitcase. 

Setting the suitcase at the foot of the bed, he sat down and started humming I'm In The Mood For Love as he put on his socks and shoes. After he'd finished, he got up and said, "Be right back, I need to do a security check and then we can leave."

He returned ten minutes later.

Smiling he declared, "Ok, everything is secure. Let's go, baby." 

Dani got off the bed and picked up her purse and make up case while Ryan picked up the suit cases. He walked out of the bedroom without another word. 

"Huh," she thought, "he's turned into Mr. Mysterious."

Dani set the alarm and locked the door while Ryan put their luggage in the trunk of the Jag.

Once they were on the Interstate, she realized that they were heading south; that still was a lot of real estate. Dani really didn't mind not knowing where they were going, she was just happy to be with Ryan. They'd been together seven months and she almost couldn't remember what it felt like not to have him in her life. 

* 

After a time, Dani began to see the signs pointing to Sarasota. 

She'd never been to Sarasota, but knew a little about it. It had the Ringling Museum of Art and some beautiful beaches. Her friend, Charlotte, had relatives there and visited them often. 

Lulled by the moving car, she eventually fell asleep not waking until Ryan rousted her by gently shaking her shoulder.

Her eyes fluttered opened and he said, "We're here, baby."

Dani was groggy, but when she got herself oriented, she looked out through the windshield and saw a large beach house. The porch light, which was controlled by a timer, was on. 

She was mesmerized by the sight. 

"Ahem!" Ryan said noting her stunned expression.

Dani smiled and took his offered hand and he helped her out of the car. 

"What do you think?" he asked, his hand sweeping out to the beautiful panoramic scene before them. 

"It's gorgeous," Dani said excitedly. "Is this your place?"

"No, it belongs to Mom. My Father left it to her." 

"With all our relatives, someone manages to be here most of the time. My Dad's brother Ken and his wife Janet were here last. I called and spoke to Ken a couple of weeks ago and told them I wanted to bring you here."

"We didn't kick them out, did we?" Dani asked concerned.

"No, we didn't," Ryan said. "As a matter fact, they stayed a few days longer than they'd originally planned knowing we weren't coming until today."

Taking her hand, he pulled her along, "Come on, sweetheart."

Once they were on the wrap around porch, Ryan turned Dani around to face outward from the house and put his arms around her waist from behind.

"Now look out there," Ryan whispered in her ear, his warm breath making her shiver. 

Dani's breath caught, because until they got on the elevated porch, she couldn't see the great expanse of water. The house was just off the gulf, about a hundred yards. The full moon sparkled off of the water creating the perfect postcard picture. 

Dani felt a slight pleasurable breeze as she stood there wrapped securely in Ryan's arms. She couldn't think of a more romantic setting. There were even red roses twining through the white washed wooden railings of the porch. 

"Let me show you the rest of the house, I'll get the luggage later," Ryan said taking her hand.

Inside the house was just as lovely. The furnishings were light and airy, but solid and exquisitely crafted. The interior had the feeling of a traditional beach house, but the décor was elegant without being pretentious. 

Ryan showed Dani around, pointing out things he thought would be of interest to her. She knew that he was proud of the place as he explained that his father spent many summers at the beach house as a child. Helen and Dan even spent their honeymoon there.

Since neither of them had eaten, by the end of the tour they were hungry and went to the kitchen in search of dinner. Leaving nothing to chance, Ryan had given his uncle a list of foods to stock which assured that he wouldn't have to leave the property for anything for the next two days. 

*

After the meal, they went out on the porch to enjoy the serenity of the calm peaceful surroundings. 

They were settled in rockers and Dani wondered if they would be sitting like that, holding hands, when they were old and gray. 

As she pondered their future, Ryan's voice broke through her thoughts.

"Are you happy, baby?" 

"Extremely," she said without hesitation. 

"There is no place I'd rather be. But, there is one thing I'm dying to know. How long have you been planning this little trip?"

Smiling at her with his eyes sparkling, "About two months," he answered.

"Two months!" Dani exclaimed.

"I'm impressed. I don't know a woman who can keep a secret that long."

"Oh, I'm great at keeping secrets. I told Micah because he's in charge of emergencies at the bar while I'm gone, but no one else. He's about as closed mouth as I am. If there's something he can't handle, he knows he can reach me on the house phone, my cell phone is off. So, here I am spending a romantic weekend with my woman," he said with a smile.

They spent another half hour talking and just enjoying the pleasure of each other's company. 

Along the way, their conversations led them to a discussion of music.

Dani loved I Don't Want to Miss a Thing by Aerosmith. To her surprise, so did Ryan. He said that every time he heard that song, he thought of her. He even had it on a Cd in his office. 

"That song really gives me the warm fuzzies," Dani said with a sigh. 

"In that case, come with me," Ryan said with mischief in his eyes.

He took both of her hands in his and pulled her out of the comfortable rocker and led her into the house. 

As Dani stood in the middle of the living room, Ryan went over to the stereo and searched through the CDs. 

When he turned on the stereo system and put the CD in, she heard the first notes of the very song they were talking about. Ryan came back to Dani and took her into his arms. With their bodies pressed together, he guided her around the room. 

As she heard the refrain of the song, she knew in her heart, that she felt the exact same way about Ryan.

"Ryan," she whispered, looking up at him, "I don't want to be anywhere, with anyone else, just right here with you." 

"Sweetheart, I've never felt so in tuned with anyone, so bound by that connection," Ryan said. "I could probably think of a number of reasons why, but none of them would really explain how much I miss you when we're not together or how happy I am to see you each morning, in my arms, in my bed." 

He kissed her soft lips and stepped away from her. 

Seeing her confused looked, he smiled and said, "I'll be right back." 

Dani watched, frowning, as Ryan headed back outside. 

She was sitting on the sofa, her back to him when he returned. 

Coming around the sofa, he stopped, looked at her for a couple of seconds, and then knelt in front of her. 

Dani stared, wide eyed.

Her gaze fell from his eyes to the flat 4 inch squared green box in his hand. It was the type of box that could contain a bracelet or necklace. Dani didn't know what to think. 

"Open it," Ryan urged.

Taking the box from his hand, Dani opened it and her jaw dropped. Nestled in the white satin was a ring. Not just any ring, an exquisite engagement ring. While she struggle to give her mind time to accept its significance, Ryan said,

"Danielle Marie Carter, will you marry me?" 

Dani hesitated, her brain still coming to terms with what Ryan was asking; and then she whispered, "Yes."

As she looked at Ryan, seeing his joy, tears started to burn the back of her eyes. Then helpless to stop them, they rolled down her cheeks and unable to contain her joy, she cried out, 

"Yes, yes, yes, yesssss!"

Smiling through her tears, Dani slid off the sofa down to the floor where Ryan still knelt and threw her arms around his neck sobbing and repeating that one word over and over again. 

Ryan held her tightly, stroking her back as he whispered words of love and happiness.

After some minutes, Dani regained a bit of control, but she was truly stunned. She wanted to pinch herself to see if it was a dream. Sitting back on the sofa, Ryan's arms around her, she asked, looking down at the ring with its twinkling diamonds, 

"When did you get this?" 

"Remember that corporate trip out of town?" he asked.

She nodded.

"The necessity of the trip was real, but I took the opportunity to kill two birds with one stone. I bought the diamonds while I was there. My Dad has a friend who's been in the wholesale diamond business a long time. When I got back in town, I had a local jeweler custom make the ring and set the diamonds. I kept it in my office safe at home."

"No one in the family knew about my intention to ask you to marry me, not even Micah. I had it put in that over sized box so that you wouldn't suspect what it was right away," he said.

Ryan took the ring out of the box, sat the box on the table and held Dani's left hand as he slipped the ring on her finger.

"And you call me sneaky," Dani charged.

"You are, I'm just better at it," he stated. 

"Mrs. Ryan Sinclair," she sighed, looking down at what would be the symbol of their union.

"It's the most beautiful ring I've ever seen, Ryan." 

"Only the best for you, sweetheart," Ryan vowed, caressing the side of her face.

"Now that we're getting married," he said, "we have some things to talk about. We've talked about how important family is to each of us in general, but now it's time for us to talk about what we want for our own family." 

Smiling, Dani said, "I've actually given a bit of thought to that question. With my Mom frequent reminders about grand kids, how could I not? Anyway, I'd like at least two kids and as many as four."

"I was thinking eight," Ryan said without batting an eye. 

"Eight!" Dani squeaked. 

"What will I do about little Ryan time? I'll be too tired and knee deep in diapers for more than a decade; that's assuming I could get pregnant that often. 

"I'm kidding, baby," Ryan said with a grin. 

"I think eight is a bit much, but four would be great; maybe five?" he entreated.

Dani saw his dimple and stared at it for a few moments before caving in.

"All right, if God is willing, I can do five little Sinclairs. Heaven help me if they're all boys," she sighed dramatically. 

Then she spoiled it by laughing with Ryan joining in.

When they recovered, Ryan said,

"What about the wedding? I was thinking April in the garden at home. The flowers will be blooming, it would be beautiful. We could have all the food catered with a wait staff." 

"That's a great idea," Dani agreed.

"Four months gives us enough time to plan everything and get out the invitations without rushing. I'm sure your mom and Haley will help, as well as Crystal."




Ryan Ch. 08



"I don't think we need to worry about help. Once my Mom and my sister hear that we're going to be married, you will be hard pressed to get rid of them," Ryan laughed.

"Aww, I wouldn't want to get rid of them, they're sweet. Besides, they planned their own weddings, I could use that expertise. They'd certainly have to help with the guess list, you too. I don't know who all you might want to invite, but the thought of a huge wedding is kind of daunting," Dani said.

"The wedding can be as small as you like, but I have a feeling that once you actually start writing your own guest list it might be longer than you think. Remember our folks will have people they will want to invite and you might find it hard to say no."

"Yeah, I guess so," Dani sighed.

"Sweetheart, I don't want this to be a strain on you. If you think you can't or don't want to handle all of this, we could elope, but I think our parents would kill us," he said only half joking. 

"No, I don't want to elope," Dani said. "I want to have a traditional wedding, but I just have to make sure that I know what's all involved. Did you know that most people take about a year to plan a wedding? "

"Not happening," Ryan declared. "I'm making sure you don't change your mind." 

"Seriously, baby, if it's too much, we can always hire a wedding planner to do all the work. As a matter of fact, I think that's a good idea. You still get to make all of the decisions. The planner will just carry out your wishes and make sure that everything goes off without a hitch." 

"I didn't think about that," Dani said. "But, even if I wanted one, I don't think I could afford it on top of the wedding and reception. I know the parents of the bride are supposed to pay for the wedding, but I'm going to pay for it myself." 

"No," Ryan said emphatically. 

"Weddings are expensive and I don't want you to spend everything you've saved or do without something that you really want. I want this to be the wedding of your dreams. To make myself clear, while planning this wedding what you want should be your only concern, not how much it costs. I'll set up a separate account at the bank in your name. I can afford it, so let me do this. Agreed?" 

Dani started to protest, but the bottom line was, she couldn't afford the wedding of her dreams on her own. 

Instead of mounting a protest that she wouldn't win, she thanked him for his generosity and kissed him.

Ryan grunted when the kiss ended and repositioned their bodies so they were lying facing each other. Then he licked Dani's lips and kissed her, deeply. 

"Ummmm."

He caressed her breasts through her top as he slipped his leg between hers, rubbing his thigh against her warm heat. Breaking the contact with her lips, he looked into her eyes, feeling an ache growing in his body.

"You know I want to make love right now, don't you?"

Dani nodded and ran her hand down his chest and over his hardening cock. 

Ryan's breath came out in a hiss.

He bit her bottom lip and then soothed it with his tongue, while his hand caressed her plump ass. Reaching down, he grabbed her wandering hand placing it back on his chest.

"We still have some details to iron out. Let's do that first, then we can indulge our lust for each other," he promised with a wicked grin.

"Oh. Ok, party pooper!" Dani groused.

"I'll remind you that you said that later," Ryan assured her.

"I can barely wait," Dani said saucily. 

"Now then," Ryan said as they regained their former upright position, "the next decision is the honeymoon. Anywhere you want to go is fine with me; I don't intend to spend time looking at the scenery anyway." 

"Does that mean, you're not going to give me a chance to see the scenery either?" Dani asked with an arched brow. 

"Oh, you'll see scenery, but it just won't be outside."

"You're so bad." Dani charged.

"That's news to you?" Ryan fired back.

"You've got me there. Well now, I just thought of a great piece of scenery I'd like to see on our honeymoon and it's not your man parts. Well, I do want to see that and lots of it, but I have something else in mind too." 

"Would you care to share with me?" Ryan asked.

"Nope, you get to be surprised. Just the thought of it is making me achy," Dani said, batting her lashes at Ryan. 

Ryan arched his brow, but his quirky smile ruined what was supposed to be a stern expression. 

Stroking the hair at his temples, Dani turned serious and said, "I love you so much."

Ryan gave her a long deep kiss that left her whimpering.

When the kiss ended, he said, "I love you too, Dani. There is a lot to talk about, but I think it can wait until later, I can't. Right now I want to make passionate love to my sexy wife to be." 

*

When they got to the bedroom, Ryan flipped on the light and asked Dani to sit at the foot of the bed. He then knelt in front of her as she watched him closely. When he started taking off her shoes, she smiled.

The room was quiet except for her sighs of anticipation. 

Ryan ran his finger up and down the instep of her foot and up her leg and heard her gasp of pleasure. Looking up he smiled at her and said, "More to come, sweetheart."

After taking off her shoes, he unbuttoned and unzipped her jeans. Gathering up the waist band and the back of her panties, he pulled both garments down, saying "up" so that Dani lifted her butt, holding on to his shoulders for stability. 

With ease, Ryan pulled them down below her knees. He then left off removing her jeans and panties to concentrate on her beautiful luscious bosom. After pulling her top over her head, he released her bra from its front closure, sucking in a tight breath as her succulent breasts spilled forth. He removed the bra with haste and pressed his nose between her breasts to inhale the light scent of jasmine mingled with Dani's own heady aroma.

Quickly he divested Dani of her pants and panties and stood up to undressed himself. Naked, he knelt again between her legs, the fragrance of her arousal assailing his senses. He grunted as he felt his cock swelled. 

Dani stroked from his head, down his neck to his upper back. She loved the feel of his corded muscles, his strength. She heard him moan as she pulled him into her body, his mouth seeking and then opening to cover her right nipple. 

"Oh, yes Ryan. Suck it... suck....ummm," she groaned as his warm mouth and wet tongue wooed her teat into a hard sensitive pebble. Giving attention to its twin, he continued to suckle as she stroked his face and caressed his shoulders.

Ryan came up for air and leaned back to look at her face. His eyes were intense, his breathing labored. He put his hand behind her neck and gently brought her forward until his lips were pressed to hers. He slid his tongue into her mouth and engaged her in a sensual game of thrust and parry. 

Interminable minutes passed as they plumbed the warm depths of each other's mouth, breathless and aching for more. Separating to fill their lungs, they tried to slow their rising ardor.

Ryan took great gulping breaths as he fought to lose some of the immediacy of ejaculation. Pressing his hand to Dani's chest, he pushed slightly and said, "Lie back, baby."

Dani did as instructed, her inner walls tingling in anticipation. Then she groaned as Ryan lifted her legs and placed them over his wide shoulders. 

In short order he pulled her butt to the edge of the bed and in the same motion pressed his lips to her aching pussy. 

"Ooooohhhh!" 

Dani wailed as Ryan's tongue pierced her opening and slipped into the heated core of her womanhood. His thick tongue was every bit as potent as his big dick and drove her insane with pleasure. Time after time he brought her to the edge of orgasm before he finally allowed her to trip over into a glorious bone melting climax. 

That night was a night to remember as Ryan laid claim to Dani in every position they'd ever tried, then a couple more. Through the long hours of the night and early morning, they reaffirmed their love and celebrated their commitment to each other in the throes of mutual sexual heat. 

* Dani awaken the next morning to a feeling of well being. 

Her body hummed like a well tuned machine bearing witness to her thorough satisfaction. Ryan used all the tricks he knew to wind her up and then send her thrashing through orgasm after orgasm. She was sore deep in her body, but she wouldn't have had it any other way. Even now, just thinking about how Ryan mastered her body made her tingle in her tender places. 

Ryan was lying spooned behind her, her head tucked under his chin as he slept. Wrapped in his warm embrace, his hand cupping her breast, Dani sighed with contentment. She luxuriated in the knowledge that she would soon be his wife. The gorgeous ring on her finger was proof of his promise and commitment to her. 

As Dani gave thought to the wonderful future held out to her, she felt Ryan stir. He pulled her closer to his solid body and squeezed her breast, achy and sensitive from their love play.

Moaning softly, she turned over until she was facing him.

With his eyes still closed, Ryan adjusted his body to accommodate their new position. There was a slight smile on his lips, his breathing deeper. Dani reached up and caressed his jaw, feeling the slight rasp of stubble as his eyes opened. Those glorious green orbs stared at her for a long while. 

"Morning, baby," he said finally, his voice deep and husky.

"Last night was something, huh?"

"Uh, huh. I want more, too," she said, her fingers sliding down to stroke his hard muscled buttock.

Chuckling, he said, "I thought you said that I wore you out and that you wouldn't be able to move for a week."

"You did and I did say that. But, it's morning now and things are kinda fuzzy. I think you need to do it again, to refresh my memory," she explained with a sassy grin.

Ryan nuzzled her neck.

"I will, but not until you soak in the tub. I know you have to be sore. Are you sore, baby?" he asked, stroking the folds between her thighs.

"Yes, a little," Dani said as she grimaced at the contact. She was sore, but she still wanted Ryan again. 

After kissing her softy, he got out of bed and pulled her along with him to the bathroom. They brushed their teeth and washed their faces and Ryan shaved before he ran warm water in the tub while Dani poured in scent free bubble bath. 

Ryan loved taking baths with her, but he didn't like what he called the girly smell of bubble bath. Dani, being a sensible woman, bought some scent free bubble bath; she sure as hell wasn't going to give up bathing with him. 

They stayed and played in the bath for thirty minutes, the big iron claw foot tub keeping the water warm the entire time, easing much of Dani's soreness.

After rinsing in the shower, they dried off. Ryan slipped into a pair of boxers and Dani put on a white knee length night gown sans underwear. Together they changed the linens on the bed. 

When they were back in bed, Ryan slipped between Dani's thighs and pulled up her grown until she was bared to his lust filled gaze. He plumped her breasts loving the contrast of his hand on her sweet caramel skin. He stayed a long time at her breasts enjoying the tasty dark chocolate treat at their center, cupping her flesh as he licked, turning her breathless sighs into urgent moans. 

Ryan slid his hand from her breast down to the apex of her thighs, his fingers seeking entrance to her throbbing warmth. As he opened her thighs further, Dani arch against his hand, inviting him in. There was only the faintest echo of soreness, while her wetness eased his entrance into her pussy. 

Ryan's finger slipped in all the way, his thumb rasping against her aching clitoris. It pressed into the tight little bud igniting sparks through her entire body.

Dani continued to rub against his hand, more urgently now. When he added another finger, she gave a soft squeal and more sweet liquid flowed from her aching core.

"Damn, baby, you're so wet," Ryan croaked as he thoroughly caressed her soft walls, his lips trailing kisses down her body to the place where they met his fingers.

"Ahhh, fuck!" he cried out as her pussy gripped his fingers.

Easing his fingers out until only the tips remained inside Dani; Ryan pressed her clit hard with the tip of his tongue, at the same time thrusting his long digits back into her pussy setting up a steady rhythm. Dani's body bowed and her back came off the bed as her orgasm suddenly caught and hurled her into delicious screaming pleasure. 

Later, after regaining her senses, Dani smiled at Ryan and traced his silky brow with her finger as he lay next to her. Gently, she caressed his face, sliding her hand down his neck to settle on his chest. She felt like she could just look at the smothering desire in his eyes and come again, so great was her appetite for this man. 

"Ummm," She murmured, stretching as she pressed her entire length against him.

"My sexy kitten," Ryan chuckled and pulled the covers over their bodies. 

Frowning, she said, feeling his erection against her belly, "You haven't come yet." 

"I will after you've rested. It was an eventful day and I kept you up most of the night. Sleep," he said, kissing her on her soft lips, "and dream of me."

Purring like the kitten he called her, Dani nuzzled his neck and in a few minutes was asleep.

 * 

After opening the door to their home, Ryan picked Dani up and walked over the threshold with her in his arms. "I'm getting in practice," he said.

"I like it. I can barely wait for the real thing."

Setting her on her feet, he said, "Be right back, gotta get the suitcases," then headed back to the car.

Dani sigh with pleasure.

She could barely believe that she was going to be married to Ryan and make babies with him. She felt so happy, so fulfilled when a year ago the last thing on her mind was meeting a man and getting married. 

They agreed to be married in April, but between now and then there was a lot to do, starting with informing their families of their engagement. Tomorrow would be soon enough or the next day as far as she was concerned. Dani wanted to keep the news to herself for just a few days more. She knew what would follow would be questions, then a huge amount of work to plan the wedding. 

When Ryan came back with the luggage, she locked the door, re-set the alarm and followed him to the bedroom. He set the cases down inside the closet, at Dani's request. She'd put the dirty clothes in the washer tomorrow, tonight she wanted to bask in the glow of being newly engaged.

The trip from Sarasota was only an hour and a half, which gave them a little more time at the beach house. They were able to indulge their libidos and shower before leaving. Now, they partially undressed and sat on the sofa. Ryan in his boxers, Dani slipped into a black silk night shirt. The room was bathed in soft glowing light and with the push of a button on the stereo remote, soothing music softly filled the room. 

Ryan reclined on the wide comfortable sofa with Dani's warm softness draped over his hard frame. She idly hummed to the music and twirled her finger through the dark golden mat of hair on his chest. She was happy and he couldn't think of anything that gave him more pleasure than knowing she would soon be his wife. 

She exhaled deeply, bringing Ryan out of his revelry.

"What's the matter, sweetheart?" 

"Ugh, I really do not want to go back to work tomorrow. I just want to lie here with you and wallow in my happiness, maybe think of work in a few weeks," Dani groused.

"Well, you know you don't have to work. You can be home all the time if you want," Ryan said.

"Yeah?" Dani questioned.

"Yes. There is no financial reason for you to work and it would be easier for us to take off on the spur of the moment to go somewhere like the Caribbean. It's up to you; I know you enjoy your work." 

"I do like my job and you're gone during most days anyway. I don't know. Maybe things will be different when we have kids. I'll have more to do with my days, but it will be harder to leave on the spur of the moment then. I'll think about it, but I won't make any decision until we talk again, ok?" Dani said.

"Ok," Ryan agreed. 

"Now let's get to the situation at hand. When and how are we going to tell the folks about our engagement?" 

"I think it will be fine to call my parents since they live out of town," Dani said, "but I definitely think we need to tell your parents in person."

Thinking a bit, she added, "Better yet, why don't we just invite them to dinner Friday night. We could invite your immediate family and Crystal, the rest of our friends and family we could tell later." 

"How are we going to keep it secret until then? That's a big rock on your finger and someone is bound to notice and let the cat out of the bag," Ryan reasoned.

"There is that," Dani acknowledged, lifting her hand to once again admire the fiery sparkle of the diamonds. 

"As much as it pains me, I can put the ring away until Friday."

Grinning, Ryan asked, "Are you sure you can keep a secret that long?"

With a grunt Dani acknowledged, "Barely," which made him chuckle. 

"One thing though," Ryan said, "We can have dinner brought in. That way we don't have to stress out about the meal after work. We'll decide on the menu tonight and I'll call Callahan's for delivery." 

Callahan's was a full service restaurant that also did special order and catering with enough notice. 

"That would be great," Dani agreed. "Getting off work, then preparing a big meal would have been hard."

Dani started to say something else, when a thought popped into her mind.

"Oh man, Crystal is going to kill me for keeping this a secret."

"Don't worry, baby, I'll protect you from your big bad sister," Ryan teased. 

"Huh! She'll kill both of us," Dani laughed.

"Well, before we have to meet our maker, how about practicing the honeymoon again," Ryan said with a shameless leer.

* 

Ryan ended up calling the members of his family while Dani called Crystal. Everyone's partner was invited but, unfortunately, Amber was on another business trip, Amanda was visiting her parents in New York, since she would be spending Christmas with the Sinclairs and Isaac was working late. 

With the dinner coming up, there were still other things to do. Although Dani had gotten the majority of her on line shopping done, there were a couple of things that she needed to purchase locally. She took a couple of hours off her work day, in the morning, to go to the mall. Everything went smoothing and she had all the presents wrapped and put away by Thursday evening. 

* 

Friday arrived and Dani was on pins and needles. She left work at three o'clock, which gave her enough time to shower and change clothes. The delivery from Callahan was expected at five thirty. Their family was due to arrive at six. 

Shortly after Dani got home, Ryan arrived and they took a shower together. As usual, it got heated between them, but Dani slowed things down knowing that they didn't have time. She agreed to let him have his wicked way with her after everyone one left, which left both of them in a state of anticipation all evening. 

The food arrived on time. Dani placed the dishes either in warming pans or in the oven until everyone was ready to eat. 

Crystal was the first to arrive and she was already curious about the dinner invitation, but she didn't let on. It wasn't that she hadn't been invited to dinner with Dani and Ryan before, just not with his family in attendance. 

Haley and Matt arrived ten minutes later, closely followed by Ryan's parents, then Micah and Caleb who came together. Almost everyone was in a good mood and happy to have received the dinner invitation, but there was something going on with Caleb who smiled, but didn't exude his usual teasing charm. 




Ryan Ch. 08



Dinner was buffet style with the food set out on the large center island in the kitchen. Everyone filled their plates and sat down in the adjoining dining room. Ryan sat at the head of the table with Dani at his right. 

The dining room was large, fully able to accommodate up to twelve people easily. 

Dinner was a boisterous affair with everyone contributing to the conversation discussing everything from little Michael to Micah's newest client. It was obvious that no one knew that Ryan and Dani had gotten away for the weekend, except Crystal and Micah, who hadn't said a word. 

After they'd finished eating, Ryan, not wanting to wait any longer, decided it was time to get the real party started.

Looking around at everyone, he said, "By the way, Dani and I went down to the beach house this last weekend."

Turning to Dani, Haley asked, "How did you like it. Isn't it just glorious?

"Oh my god, Haley," Dani gushed; "the house was absolutely gorgeous with a picture perfect setting. It was really hard to leave; I hope that wasn't our last trip there." 

"I'm sure it won't be," Haley said, purposely looking at Ryan, who only smiled at her. 

Continuing, she said, "I know what you mean. Matt and I spent a couple of weeks there last summer. It was so peaceful. Although it's isolated, we didn't feel like anything was missing. We're on the go a lot, especially since we have Michael now, so we're really looking forward to our next trip down there." 

Joining in Helen said, "Besides being so peaceful, it's so romantic. I remember when Dan and I first went there. The flowers were in bloom, the weather was beautiful, clear and sunny the entire time. It was like being in paradise." 

"Except, we didn't see a lot of the outside," Dan interjected to Helen's embarrassment. 

"Dan!" she admonished.

Smiling Dan said, "Uh, we didn't get outside much because we just really enjoyed the interior décor. How's that, honey?"

Shaking her head, Helen smiled and said, "That's just as bad. You're incorrigible."

"Yep, that's me," Dan replied with a twinkle in his eyes.

"Ahem!" Ryan said, "I don't think we'll ever be old enough to hear stuff like that from you Dad. We'd rather be left with the illusion that we all came via the stork."

"Amen," Micah said in agreement while the others chuckled.

Getting to his feet, Ryan said, "Since we're all together, I'd like to say something." 

All eyes turned to him, expectantly. 

"This has been a great year for us as a family and I'd just like to say something to remind us of our many blessings. First of all, there was the addition to our family of Mallory, Haley and Matt's beautiful baby boy." 

Looking at his parents, he said, "I wouldn't count on that being your only grand kid."

Everyone chuckled, naturally assuming Ryan was referring to Haley's love for children. 

Continuing, he said, "Then there is Caleb, the guy whose gift for gab was parlayed into a successful career as a writer. His third book was published and damn if it didn't hit the top of the New York Times Bestseller List last week. Congratulations, again, Brother," Ryan said nodding to Caleb. 

Nodding back, Caleb smiled proudly.

"Now, we come to Micah, my partner in crime." 

Micah chuckled at that. 

"He recently sold custom guitars to Eric Clapton and Carlos Santana, in the same week. Seriously Brother, you are an incredible artist," Ryan said. 

"Thanks, Ryan, that means a lot coming from you," Micah said with feeling. 

Ryan went on to say, "I don't have the patience or imagination for writing and never in a million years would I have the touch Micah has when crafting his art and you can forgot about me carrying a baby."

That comment was met with hoots of laughter that soon reduced everyone to tears.

But, I did have some success of my own," he said when they'd all calm down. "I saved the acquisition of a major property for the corporation earlier this year. However, my proudest achievement was having the good sense to fall in love with a woman who knows I'm not perfect, but still thinks I'm the best thing since sliced bread."

Turning to Dani, Ryan raised his glass and said, 

"Danielle Marie Carter, you're everything I ever truly wanted or needed in my life. Thank you for sharing the journey with me and agreeing to become my wife." 

Everyone looked stunned for a second, but when the realization of what Ryan said seeped into their brains, they all started talking at the same time. 

"What?!" Crystal squeaked.

"Oh, my God!" came from Haley. 

"When?!" was all Helen could manage.

Micah looked over at Caleb and they both said at the same time, "Damn."

Dan just sat back in his chair and smiled thinking, "More grand babies."

"I know you all must have questions and we'll answer them all," Ryan said grinning from ear to ear.

Crystal sitting next to Dani, hugged her and said,

"Congratulations, Sis. I'm so happy for you. Mom is just going to flip out."

"Ryan and I will call them tonight," Dani said.

"They're crazy about Ryan. They both will be over the moon," Crystal whispered.

"Ok, people," Ryan said, "let's go to the living room for the Q and A session. 

As they all headed off to the living room, Ryan held Dani back. 

He opened the drawer to the china cabinet and took out the box with the engagement ring in it. He slipped the ring on her finger and kissed the back of her hand. Smiling, they joined the family on the big sectional sofa. 

Crystal was the first to catch sight of the ring since she was sitting closest to Dani on the left.

"Let me see! Let me see!" she gasped grabbing Dani's hand.

"Oh Dani, it's gorgeous."

"Thanks," Dani said, "Ryan has good taste. It was tough taking it off so the announcement would be a surprise for everyone."

Dani was patient as everyone took turns holding her hand to admire the ring. After everyone was seated again, Ryan said, "Mom, I know you're champing at the bit. Is there anything you want to ask us?"

"I'm still a little shocked," she said beaming, "but I do have one question. 

"Did you get engaged at the beach house?" 

"Yes, we got engaged last Friday," he said. 

"That's a week ago," Crystal said, shocked that her sister could keep a secret that long and a little peeved that she didn't tell her first. Then she realized that it wasn't about her. Dani was a grown woman, a woman about to be married. Besides, she didn't know if she could have kept the secret herself had she known. As it was, she so wanted to tell someone, anyone. But most of all she was happy for her sister and she admitted, just a little bit jealous. 

"I planned the trip to the beach house a while back solely for the purpose of asking Dani to marry me," Ryan revealed.

"I've known for a long time that I wanted to marry her and couldn't think of a better place to do it. Once we got back, we decided to tell you all at the same time. We're going to call Dani's parents and let them in on the good news tonight and tell our friends in the next few days." 

"Two down and two to go; what say you, boys?" Dan asked, his eyes gleaming as he looked at Micah and Caleb.

Everyone laughed at the hounded expression on their faces. 

"Now, Dad..." Caleb started and then just clamped his mouth shut, rolling his eyes toward the heavens as if in supplication.

Micah clapped Caleb on the back and said with a now amused look, 

"Buck up Bro, all we have to do is stand our ground."

After a hearty round of snickers, Ryan and Dani continued to answer questions regarding their plans. 

They were having such a great time together, that it was after eleven o'clock before they all left. But before doing so, they helped clean up, which both Dani and Ryan appreciated. 

When the house was quiet again, they put in the call to Dani's parents. It was a little later than Ryan would have wanted to call, but she assured him that they would still be up. So, they'd called and as Crystal predicted her parents were over the moon at the announcement. It was well past midnight when they ended the call and went to bed.

* 

Dani decided not to jump into planning the wedding right away. She wanted to wait until after Christmas to have that as her only focus. In the meantime, she was just going to enjoy being engaged. With all the help she was getting the lost of a little time wouldn't matter. 

She decided to use a wedding planner after all. The wedding was going to be larger than she initially anticipated, Ryan was right as usual. She didn't want to be tired and stressed out on her big day, nor did she want that for those assisting her. Letting a professional do the grunt work was the best option. 

To ease the process along, she asked Haley and Helen to start working on a vendor and guest list. They agreed that once things got underway, they would all meet at Dani's and Ryan's place to arrange everything, along with the planner. In the meantime, Dani would have time to read a couple of wedding books and organize her thoughts. Even though she was using a planner, she still needed to make all of the decisions. 

* Dani went back to work on Monday and was overwhelmed as well as pleased by the reaction of her co-workers to her engagement. They congratulated her and complimented her on her beautiful ring. A few even admitted to being a tad jealous.

Charlotte stated emphatically that she wanted to be a bridesmaid. Dani grinned at her and called her pushy, but they both knew as one of Dani's closest friends, she'd be in the wedding party. Dani didn't have long to bask in the glow of her friends' well wishes as there was plenty of work to do. * 

There was hardly time for Dani to get back into her routine when Christmas rolled around. Crystal was spending the holiday with their parents and taking Isaac along, he was spending Christmas Eve with his girls. James wouldn't be coming home. He only had Christmas Day off from his job and decided to spend it with a classmate who lived near the campus. 

Christmas day Dani and Ryan called her parents. Once again, they told them how happy they were that Ryan was going to be a part of the family and that they loved them both. Her mother didn't mention grand kids and Dani was perversely disappointed. Now that her mother could be expected to talk about grand children she hadn't uttered a word. 

Dani put in a call to her friend Trina Willis. Trina and Quincy moved to Canada almost 2 years ago to be near her family. They got engaged shortly afterward, but were not as yet married. 

Dani's long time friend was happy and excited for her. She assured Trina that she would send them an invitation and asked her to be in the wedding party. Trina accepted happily. They spent more than an hour catching up and reliving the good old days, realizing just how much they missed each other. Trina was pleased that Dani had found the right man for her. Dani wished them Happy Holidays and ended the call with a promise to keep in touch.

All in all, the holidays were a fun, albeit tiring time for Dani. 

* 

A week later with the celebrations behind them, Dani settled in back at work. Mr. McClain went out of town for a conference in Chicago which had been scheduled a month earlier. He would be gone all week long, but he left instructions for Dani that included a courthouse records search. 

Digging through old records was tedious, but Dani found that she was more focus on doing it after she'd gotten all or most of her other work done. With that in mind, she scheduled a block of time toward the end of the week to do her research. It she were lucky, it wouldn't take more than an afternoon to complete the task.

The week went by fairly quickly with few problems. Dani had plenty to do, but it was mostly routine work. She did end up getting extra work from McKinney because his secretary had to leave on a family emergency late Thursday morning. She didn't mind, but it put her a little behind with regard to starting her research at the courthouse. 

After finishing McKinney's letter, Dani changed her voice mail to reflect that she wouldn't be in the office the rest of the day and headed downtown. She really did hate going downtown with all the one way streets and noisy traffic, but sometimes it couldn't be avoided. Then there was the parking. Street parking was definitely out, so she looked for a space in one of the covered garages. 

After parking on the garage's second level, she locked her car and headed for the main courthouse. The research she needed to do was straight forward, it just took time and sifting through old records.

* 

It was about four o'clock when Dani completed her research, which took less time than she had anticipated. However, it had been a successful trip. She'd found a couple of case laws which might be useful. Another good thing was she had more than enough time to avoid the dreaded five o'clock rush hour traffic. 

Dani opened her car door and was about to get in when she saw a motion in her peripheral vision and her breath caught in her throat. Turning, she recognized Keith as he approached. While breathing a sigh of relief, she still eyed him cautiously and wondered what he was doing there.

Noticing how Dani seemed startled upon seeing him, Keith said, 

"Hey, I'm sorry, didn't mean to scare you. I just wanted to talk to you for a minute." 

Feeling a sense of Déjà vu, Dani asked, "What are you doing here?" 

"Like I said, I'm here to talk to you," he said slightly peeved. "I can never seem to find you alone."

"What?" Dani said, starting to get alarmed. "Have you been following me?"

Without answering the question Keith said, 

"You gave me the brush off in the grocery store, don't think I didn't notice. I just wanted to talk. You always seem to be with someone or at the River Lakes Estates. I guess that's where your boyfriend, the white guy, lives. I know you can't afford to live there," he said with his lip curling into a sneer. 

"Are you living with him?" he snapped.

Dani was too flabbergasted to even answer. He was following her, just like before.

Not liking her silence, Keith grabbed her right wrist and pulled her toward him and asked in a hard tight voice, "I asked you a question, are you fucking living with that bastard?" 

Now, really afraid, Dani squeaked, "Yes." 

It was when she put up her left hand to push him back from her, that he saw her engagement ring.

"What the fuck?!" he hissed grabbing her left wrist in a bruising grip. 

"You're engaged to him?!" he shouted, not expecting an answer. It was obviously an engagement ring. 

Dani was scared, really scared. She opened her mouth to scream when Keith grabbed a fist full of her hair and banged her head against the car door frame several times in quick succession, drawing a moan from her, while blood seeped from a wound at her temple.

With one hand still grasping her hair, Keith held her throat in a choke hold with the other. Pressing his big body against her, he snarled, "If you scream, I'll fucking kill you. Hear that bitch?" 

Dani slowly nodded, fighting the nausea. 

Keith was getting angrier by the minute; she had to think of a way of getting away from him. He was too close and holding her too tightly for anything she knew to be effective. 

"You thought you were too good for me, but you're fucking some white guy. I was crazy about you, but you were so prissy you didn't even want me to touch you. I could tell. Oh, you tried to hide it, but as soon as my dick got hard, you'd push me away, just like a fucking tease. I bet you get down on his dick, don't you bitch?" he barked, increasing the painful pressure on her throat. 

Feeling dizzy from the lack of oxygen, Dani fought to stay conscious. 

When she heard faint voices approaching, she did the only thing she could think of, she let her entire body go slack. Caught off guard, Keith loosened his hold on her. It was then that he heard the voices too. They were too close for comfort, so he brutally shoved Dani and fled, never looking back as she hit the cold hard concrete garage floor. 

A man, seeing Keith running away, called out. "Hey, stop! Stop!"

Dani, already weak from being strangled and having her head banged against the car, was unable to stop herself from falling; hitting her head on the solid surface, she lost consciousness.



Ryan Ch. 09



Ryan was in his office when he got the call. 

When he saw Crystal's name on the caller ID, he got a tingling sensation on the back of his neck. 

"What's wrong, Crystal?" he asked before she could say anything.

He could tell she was crying and felt his chest tighten.

"Is it Dani?" Ryan prompted, already feeling the first tentacles of fear. 

"Yes... she ....she was attacked. I'm at Tampa General Hospital. She's unconscious, Ryan," she cried.

Forcing himself to stay calm Ryan said, "I'm leaving right now, I'll be there soon," and hung up without waiting for a response. 

Shouting to Dave that he was in charge, Ryan headed out of the door. On the way to his car, he called Micah.

"Yeah, Ryan, what's up?" Micah answered.

Breathing in deeply, Ryan said, "Dani's been attacked. She's at Tampa General. I'm on my way there now."

"How is she?" Micah asked anxiously.

"She's unconscious, that's all I know." 

Then in a strained voice, "Micah, I can't lose her." 

"I won't say don't worry, Ryan. All we can do is pray. I'll meet you at the hospital," he said.

"Thanks," Ryan said and hung up. 

When he got to the hospital he ran to the emergency room. Crystal was sitting with her head in her hands quietly sobbing. When she raised her head to wipe her eyes, she saw Ryan rushing toward her. Jumping to her feet, she ran to him and threw her arms around his neck. 

"Oh, Ryan, I'm so scared. I don't know what's going on," she wailed. 

Ryan hugged her for a moment, then took her hand and led her over to the nurse's station. 

"We'd like to have an update on Danielle Carter's condition," he practically growled at the nurse.

The nurse recognized Crystal as the patient's sister. 

"All right," the she said, "I'll get that as soon as possible."

"Now," Ryan said in a quiet, but firm voice, his green gaze unwavering as he stared at the nurse.

"All right, have a seat and I'll call immediately and have one of the nurses come out and give you a report," she amended.

Not budging, Ryan said, "No, we'll wait right here until you call."

Getting the message and the impression that Ryan could make a scene, she quickly dialed the nurse's station and requested that someone come out to give the family a report right away. She listened to the response and then said,

"I know, but this guy isn't going to wait long." 

She glanced up to see Ryan's face harden, then dropped her eyes quickly and said to the person on the other end of the line, "Ok, I'll let him know." 

She hung up the receiver and addressed Ryan directly.

"A nurse will be out within five minutes."

When she saw Ryan open his mouth to say something, she hurriedly added,

"They promised." 

Resigned to wait a little longer, Ryan and Crystal returned to the waiting area where he asked her what she knew about the attack. She was about to tell him, when Micah rushed into the emergency room.

Ryan and Crystal stood up and Micah embraced them both, visibly shaken. 

The emergency room which was relatively quiet when Crystal got there was starting to fill up, so they moved to the far end of the room where it was less congested. When they were seated Micah said,

"I called the rest of the family. They wanted to come, but I thought it best that they waited at home. I'll call and give them an update on Dani's condition. Have you found out anything yet?"

"We should know something soon," Ryan said. 

His face was drawn; his voice deceptively calm as he marshaled his emotions to keep from tearing through the E/R to find Dani. He refused to think of what could be happening. 

"Crystal was about to tell me what she knew when you came in." 

Both Ryan and Micah turned to Crystal who was having problems with her own emotions. 

"I don't know a lot," she said with a sigh, "but I'll tell you what the police told me."

"There was a couple coming back to their vehicle and saw the attack in progress. The guy attacking Dani must have heard them because he took off running. The man ran after him and yelled for him to stop, but he couldn't catch up to him. While his wife was assisting Dani, he called 911 who dispatched an ambulance and called the police. Soon after, I got the call." 

Crystal felt like she was going to cry again, but when she saw the dark expression on Ryan's face, she took a deep breath intent on continuing. But before she could, he asked a question, one that had been on her mind when she first heard about the attack.

"Was Dani...was she... sexually assaulted," he asked, the very words produced a burning sensation in his chest, his voice hoarse with emotion.

Micah, sitting close to his brother, felt the tension in his body. He'd never seen Ryan like this before and felt helpless. 

"I don't think so," Crystal answered. "She still had her clothes on."

Ryan remembered that Dani wore a pant suit to work and sighed in relief.

"The police were here until a few minutes ago," Crystal continued. "The hospital is supposed to notify them when Dani's able to talk to them. They think she might have a better description of the guy. They also said they'd call as soon as they got any information on the guy. "

"How did they know to call you?" Micah asked.

"Last year when Dani updated her emergency contact information, she put my name on the card since Mom and Dad had moved to Jacksonville. I work near here, so I rushed over. I got here just a little bit before the ambulance." 

"What about your parents, have you called them?" Ryan asked.

"Yes, they're on their way down. I got to see Dani just briefly," Crystal said choking back a sob as she remembered the blood on the side of her sister's face. 

Ryan rubbed her back to soothe her. 

Getting under control again, she said, "I don't know what would have happened if that couple hadn't been there." 

"But, they were there," Micah reassured her, "and we can thank God for that."

Ryan closed his eyes briefly giving a silent prayer for the couple's intervention. He'd have to find them later and thank them personally. But right now, he was getting impatient since the nurse had not arrived with an update on Dani's condition. He was just about to find out where the hell she was when he heard:

"Family member of Danielle Carter!" 

The small group walked over to the nurse who led them to an empty hallway off of the E/R to speak to them in private. 

"How is she?" Ryan asked impatiently, his green eyes unwavering. 

The nursed eyed him curiously. He looked intense. She'd seen the ring on Dani's finger and thought he might be the fiancé. Whoever he was, he wasn't going to wait on ceremony, so she answered him directly. 

"She's stable and in no immediate danger."

At her answer, Ryan lost some of the rigidity in his body and leaned against the wall.

Then turning to Crystal she asked, "Are you her sister?"

Crystal nodded. 

"Miss Carter regained consciousness briefly and is asleep now. She has a concussion with an accompanying intracerebral hematoma which was caused by an injury to the small blood vessels in the brain due to trauma on the left side of her head. There was some internal bleeding along with slight swelling, but it was minimal and stopped on its own. There was no need for surgical intervention."

"There was a lot of blood," Crystal said in a whisper. 

"There was a good amount of blood because there are many small blood vessels close to the surface of the skin in that area," the nurse said. "That wasn't as much of a concern as the internal bleeding and swelling." 

"As I said, she's stable now, but after all the tests are done, we'll be moving her to ICU for observation for a couple of days. She was only conscious long enough to tell us her throat hurts. There is some swelling in the area which could indicate that she was strangled."

"Fuck!" Ryan barked.

Pulling himself off the wall, he paced back and forth along the hallway. He was seething with anger and just wanted to smash something; anything. So he hit the wall with the side of his fist. It wasn't enough to make a hole, but enough to release some of his tension. Micah watched his brother closely knowing that he needed to take the edge off his emotions. 

Ryan took a deep breath, rolled his shoulders and slowly walked back to where the others stood.

"I'm sorry there wasn't a better way to tell you," the nurse said, sympathizing with him. 

Ryan nodded, closed his eyes and took another deep breath.

After he was under control, the nurse said, "I don't suppose you know this, but Miss Carter is pregnant. The baby is doing fine," she added hastily when she saw the shocked expressions. 

"Baby?" Ryan said, stunned.

"Oh, my God," Crystal said equally stunned.

Micah put his arm around Ryan's shoulder and whispered, "Congratulation, Brother, you're going to be a great dad."

"I'm going to be a dad," Ryan echoed in disbelief. Then on the heels of that emotion he was angry again at the son of a bitch who attacked Dani. He could have killed her as well as their unborn child. 

Turning her attention to the nurse, Crystal asked, "Dani's pregnant? Are you sure?"

Seeing the look on Ryan's face, the nurse didn't answer Crystal immediately. Instead she spoke to Ryan, "I'm sorry to shock you like that, sir. Are you all right?"

"Yeah," he said quietly, breathing deeply. "I'm ok. Our baby is ok." 

Then he said, "I need to see Dani." 

"Soon, sir," the nurse said, "I promise." 

Turning back to Crystal, she said, "As for your question, yes, we're sure she's pregnant. She's five, maybe six weeks along. We still need to do a couple more tests. I'll come back to let you know when she's in her room and you can see her for a few minutes." 

Nodding to Ryan, "Congratulations," she said and headed back to her duties. 

Ryan, still shocked, sat down on the bench in the hall with his brother and Crystal sitting on either side of him. 

While Crystal was lost in her own thoughts, he rolled over the idea of being a father in his head. This was unexpected, but he couldn't have been happier about Dani being pregnant. As for the asshole that attacked her, Ryan was going to make sure that dying would seem like a blessing to him. 

Coming out of her reverie, Crystal asked, "Wasn't she on the pill?"

"Yes," Ryan said with a frown.

"She might have forgotten to take them while she was recovering from the sinus infection, but she didn't say anything about it."

"She didn't say anything to me and I think she would have if that had happened," Crystal said.

"The culprit was probably the antibiotics. They can reduce the effectiveness of the pill. Doctors don't always tell you that, but they should. I've been on antibiotics twice in three years and my doctor never said a thing. I found out on my own years ago." 

"That can happen, seriously?" Micah asked surprised.

"More than you think, that's where some of those surprise babies come from." 

"I wonder if Dani knew she was pregnant," Ryan pondered.

"She might not have noticed any symptoms. I seriously doubt that she would have kept something that important from you," Crystal said. 

"Damn, I'm going to be a dad," Ryan said again. 

"I'm going to be an aunt. Expect me to spoil the kid rotten," Crystal said with the first signs of a smile. 

"Oh," Micah interjected, "I need to call the family. They are going to be more than surprised about the baby; Mom and Dad will be over the moon with another grand kid coming. " 

Micah excused himself and went outside to make his call. After making it, he returned to the E/R with the family's congratulations on the baby and well wishes and prayers for Dani. 

It was almost thirty minutes later when the nurse came back and said that Dani was in her room and they could see her for just a few minutes. 

*

They were somber as they entered the ICU. 

Ryan walked to the head of the bed, leaned down and kissed Dani on the lips. His heart ached at the bandage on the side of head and the monitors that were attached to her. He had to tamp down his anger as he imagined her fear and helpless during the attack. 

Crystal sat in a chair on the other side of the bed, Micah stood behind her.

Ryan whispered to Dani telling her how much he loved her, how much he was looking forward to being a father. He was stroking the back of her hand when he realized that her engagement ring was missing.

"Where's her ring?" he asked to no one in particular.

"I have it," Crystal said opening her purse.

"The nurse gave it to me when I saw Dani earlier."

Taking it out of her purse, she gave Ryan the ring wrapped in tissue. He wanted to put it back on Dani's finger, but he knew that jewelry often disappeared in hospitals. He'd take it home and put it on her finger as soon as she got there.

He placed the ring in his pocket, leaned down and kissed her again. 

Dani stirred, opening her eyes slowly.

"Ryan," she whispered. 

Her throat hurt, her vision was blurred and her eyes were blood shot. 

"Hey, baby," he said with a smile, "I'm so happy to see your pretty eyes."

"Did they get him?" She asked hoarsely.

"Not yet," Ryan said stroking her cheek.

Dani's face scrunched as she fought hard to stay focus.

"Keith," she whispered so softly that only Ryan heard.

She was so tired, her head hurt and she was losing the battle to stay awake.

Ryan frowned and whispered, "Who's Keith, baby?"

But before Dani could answer she was asleep again. 

Dani's parents arrived a few minutes later. After they saw Dani and said a prayer for her, they all went to the small waiting room down the hall where Michelle and Davis were filled in on what happened. Before leaving, they were allowed to look in on Dani one more time; she was still asleep. 

Ryan, Crystal and Micah were parked in the covered garage with the Carters parked in the west parking lot. They parted ways outside the hospital amid hugs and words of comfort. Shortly afterward Micah took the garage steps to his vehicle on the second level.

Ryan became lost in his thoughts again. He knew answers would have to wait, but he was frustrated knowing there was nothing he could do at the moment. 

They were nearing their vehicles when Crystal stopped in her tracks and said to him,

"I didn't want to say anything in front of my parents, but I think I know who attacked Dani."

"What?!" Ryan said in surprise. 

She looked at him and said, "I heard you ask about Keith. I was mulling it over in my mind, but before I could say anything my parents arrived. I didn't want to upset them in case I was wrong." 

"Do you know someone named Keith?" he asked.

"The only Keith that I know is a guy Dani dated about three years ago, Keith Hall. Dani never said why they broke up. We all assumed that it was because he got a job opportunity and moved away. The move was to Gainesville and I haven't seen or heard about him since. I don't think Dani has either, but I can't be sure." she said. 

"Was he someone who would want to hurt Dani? Was he violent?" Ryan asked.

"Not that I know. Like I said, Dani didn't say much about him, even when they were dating. I think they dated maybe three months. She seemed to like him, but I don't know anything about what he was like. I wasn't living at home and I was going through a bad patch with my boyfriend at the time; I wasn't paying that much attention to what was happening with Dani. Damn, I wish I knew more," she sighed. 

"Why would your parents be upset?" Ryan wanted to know. 

"Keith's mother and my Mom are good friends. It was through her that Dani met Keith. I just would rather be sure it was him before getting them upset about it." 

They walked the rest of the way in silence, each deep in their own thoughts. 

When they reached Crystal's car Ryan said, "I'll be back here early tomorrow morning, call me if you need anything in the meantime. Let me give you my cell phone number." 

"Ok, thanks," she said. 

Taking out her phone she entered his number. Ryan then hugged her and said,

"Call me anytime; day or night."

Crystal nodded and got into her car. Ryan watched her until she rolled out of the garage, and then preceded to his own car several spaces down. 

*

By the time Ryan got to his parents home, he found that all of his siblings as well as Matt were in attendance. They were talking, but paused when they saw him. Haley got up and walked over to him. She hugged him tightly and whispered how sorry she was about Dani. 

Ryan looked exhausted. 

"Everything is going to be all right, Ryan" she comforted. 

"I know, Haley. I just feel so damn frustrated that the bastard is running around loose," he sighed as he sat down. 

"I know," she said, "but we do have some good news; congratulations on the baby. He and Mallory are going to have a great time growing up together." 

After receiving congratulations and hugs all around, Ryan told them about his conversation with Crystal.

"I have some more news," he said as everyone looked at him expectantly. 

"There's a good possibility that Dani knows the guy who attacked her." 

"How does she know him?" Dan asked, surprised.

"Dani whispered the name Keith. Crystal says that she only knows one Keith and that's the guy Dani dated a few years back. His name is Keith Hall."

Haley gasped and everyone turned to her.

"What's the matter?" Matt asked.

Haley felt like she'd been kicked in the chest when she realized who attacked Dani. 

Taking a deep breath, she said, "Keith Hall? I had almost forgotten about him. That's the name of the guy that Dani and I saw in the grocery store just before Thanksgiving. He gave me the creeps. Dani told me about him on the way over here."

"Why didn't she say anything to me about it?" Ryan questioned.

"She said she would tell you after Thanksgiving," Haley answered. "She said she didn't want him intruding on the holiday, but she'd tell you afterward. I guess with going back to work, the engagement and everything it must have slipped her mind." 

"Did she tell you what happened between them?" Ryan asked.

"Yes. She said that he'd been really nice when they started dating, then he gradually started getting possessive. They hadn't agreed to be exclusive and she'd told him from the beginning that he could date other people."

Seeing the surprised faces around her, Haley continued. 

"She said he had agreed, but apparently he was just saying that for her benefit. She kept seeing him because he pretended to accept what she said and his attitude did get better. Dani wasn't dating anyone else because she thought it seemed weird to be dating more than one guy at a time.

Ryan smiled to himself. That sounded like Dani.

"Anyway," Haley said, "over a period of a few weeks, he started showing signs of possessiveness again. Dani stopped dating him after a particular incident."

After telling them about the incident at the park, Haley went on.

"Dani let her family believe that they stopped dating because he moved away for a job. She didn't want things to be sour between her mom and her longtime friend, who was Keith's mother. She never saw him again, not until just before Thanksgiving."

"You said he gave you the creeps; how?" Caleb asked.

Haley told them about the incident in the store. 

Do you know if he'd ever been violent with Dani?" Ryan asked.

"No, he never was. But he struck me as someone who could be. His expression changed so fast. One second he had this charming smile, the next..." she just let the sentence trail off. 

"Anyway," she offered, "I think she just felt uncomfortable with him after a while and got out of the situation."

Ryan mulled over what Haley said. He wouldn't have thought that Dani had that kind of an experience with a man. But he did recall one conversation with her that he'd thought just came from curiosity. 




Ryan Ch. 09



"If I had known I could have had Hall watched, but that's neither here or there now," he sighed. "I don't think Dani knew that the guy could be such a nut job. Besides, he hadn't come near her in three years," Ryan said. 

"Not that you know," Matt said quietly. 

Ryan just stared at Matt, hearing the words echo in his head over and over again. 

* 

Ryan was finding it difficult to sleep and decided to do something about it. Instead of staring at the ceiling thinking about things over which he had no control, he chose to call his contact in the sheriff's department. Zane Montgomery was head of the detective division and a long time friend. He considered calling in the morning because it was late, but he knew Zane wouldn't mind; the life of a detective wasn't one lived between 9 and 5 O'clock.

Picking up the phone from the bedside table, he dialed Zane's cell phone. 

"Montgomery." 

"Zane, this is Ryan. I'm sorry to call so late, but I have a favor to ask."

Catching the strained in Ryan's voice, Zane sat up, alert.

"What's up, Ryan?" 

Ryan went on to tell Zane everything he knew about the circumstances of the attack and Keith Hall.

Zane listened and took notes, asking questions as he saw the need. Under normal circumstances it would be a day or two before the file came through the detective division but he'd expedite the procedure if need be. He was on vacation, but assured Ryan that he would stop by the division in the morning. 

"At least I have a name," Ryan said. "It shouldn't be that hard to track the bastard down." 

"Ryan, you can't go after this guy," Zane warned.

"You would not only be the prime suspect if anything happened to him, you would be the only suspect. As much as I would hate it, I would bring you in for questioning. Do you really want to put Dani through that?"

Ryan gritted his teeth as the anger and frustration seep through his body. 

He knew Zane was right. Although he'd like nothing better than to find Keith Hall and torture him before killing him, he couldn't hurt Dani. No matter how good it would make him feel in the moment, it would devastate her if he went to prison.

"I know," he said with a grimace. "But I can take pleasure in thinking of the many ways I could make it happen. 

Sighing, Zane said, "We both can."

"I'll stay out of trouble," Ryan said grudgingly. "I have a family to look after and I can't do that behind bars."

"It's for the best all around, Ryan. I'll let you know what I find out," Zane said. 

Ryan thanked Zane before saying goodnight.

*

Turning over on his back, Ryan threw his arm over his head and sighed.

It's been months since he slept alone. He missed just hearing Dani breathe next to him. His bed, his home, he felt empty without her. He loved the way she snuggled against him and even in sleep she would caress his chest or arm. 

He loved waking up next to her. She would sigh and groan softly as he coaxed her into consciousness with his kisses, his touch. Then she would take him into her body and they would both cry out as they shared the most sensual pleasure he'd ever known.

The feeling was mutual; he knew that even without the words. She was a part of him. How could he live without that, without her? As bad as it was, he knew things could have been much worse.

He thought of all their first times together gaining solace from his memories of the woman who completed his life. It was a long time before he drifted off to sleep with his last conscious thoughts being of the beach house where she promised to be his for the rest of their lives. 

* The next morning Ryan packed an overnight case with a couple of night gowns, a dressing robe and underwear for Dani. She would be in the hospital for at least a week and he thought she'd feel better in her own clothing. 

When he got to the hospital a little after eight, the nurse was taking Dani's vitals. Dani turned her head at the sound of his boots tapping on the floor. She smiled at him and whispered hi as he moved closer. Ryan's heart almost burst on seeing that smile. He softly returned the greeting and sat down as the nurse was finishing up. 

He'd already stopped at the nurse's station to check on her condition. Crystal was thoughtful enough to put his name on the list of people who could be given updates. As he looked at Dani now he thought, "One day I'll have the right without anyone's approval." He wanted that right sooner rather than later. 

The nurse told him that Dani was in more pain today and he should expected to see some bruises on her throat. Her voice was hoarse, but there hadn't been any permanent damage. She also had some blurred vision and dizziness which would clear up in time. She was progressing as they'd hoped and in another day or two she would be moved to a regular room. Dani was sleeping a lot, but was waking up on her own. They just needed to keep a close eye on her for any complications and monitor the pain medication. 

Ryan arranged for Dani to be placed in a private room. He wanted to make things as comfortable as possible for her while she recovered. Sharing a room meant that people would be in and out visiting the other patient and he rather that she not be bothered with that. 

When the nurse left, he pulled his chair closer to the bed, leaned over and kissed Dani on the lips and caressed her cheek. 

"I love you so much," he whispered humbled by the breadth of his feelings. 

"Love you, too," Dani whispered; her voice husky.

Ryan thought that living without her would be like diving into a deep dark hole, one that would swallow his soul and spit it out in bits and pieces. Just looking at her now made his heart ache.

"How are you feeling, sweetheart," he asked taking her hand in his.

"Happy about our baby," she said as she squeezed his hand. 

"Glad you're mine." she added.

"You'll always be a part of me," Ryan averred.

"So will this little guy," he added, stroking her still flat belly.

"Little guy?" 

He answered with a grin, "The next one can be a girl."

Dani caressed the side of his face noticing how tired he looked. She knew he was worried and angry at the man who did this to her, Keith. She should have told him about Keith, but she really forgot about him with everything that was going on.

"Ryan... about Keith," she started haltingly, she didn't want Ryan to think that she was keeping secrets from him. 

"Shhh, sweetheart, you don't need to talk about him," he said. 

"You probably shouldn't be talking at all. I spoke with Haley and Crystal, they filled me in. I passed the information on to Zane, but no one will be questioning you for a while. There will be time enough for that when you're stronger." 

"Ok." she said with a sigh. She was still very tired and wasn't looking forward to talking to the police at all.

"Oh, I almost forgot," Ryan said. "I bought a couple of gowns and underwear. Before you ask, it's not your Victoria's Secret stuff; it's some of the pre-Ryan things which you seem to have given up wearing."

"Good," she said with a small smile.

Ryan saw her eyes fluttering with the effort to stay awake.

"Close your eyes and rest, baby. I'll be here when you wake up," he promised.

Dani nodded then gave up the struggle to stay awake. 

In less than a minute she was asleep. Ryan sat back in the chair and got as comfortable as he could. Closing his eyes, he decided to get some shut eye to make up for his restless night. 

It was twenty minutes later when Dani's parents and her sister arrived. Upon seeing Ryan asleep in the chair, Michelle smiled, but left him undisturbed.

Ryan's family was able to see Dani later in the day. The hospitable ICU policy was somewhat liberal as they felt that the presence of family and friends could be a great help in recovery.

* 

Keith Hall was back in Los Angeles hiding out at Walter Randle's Place. Of course Keith hadn't told him why he was back in town, but his childhood friend wasn't a fool. He hadn't seen Keith in over three years, now here he was out of the blue. It didn't take a genius to figure trouble wasn't far behind.

Walter knew Keith better than most. Keith, although a smart guy, he had some issues, most having to do with his mother abandoning him. Of course, he'd had his dad, but like so many kids from broken homes, it didn't matter the parent you had, you always wanted and needed the one you didn't have. At least that's what Walter thought. 

Walter wasn't bad at deductive reasoning, but he really didn't know what Keith's relationship had been with his father. The fact that Keith rarely talked about the man should have been a clue. However, the things that Walter did know had come from Keith's own mouth.

One night when Keith was drunk out of his mind, he spilled his frustrations, insecurities and anger out to Walter. The weird thing was, the next morning he hadn't remembered a thing he'd said. Walter, not foolish enough to remind him, decided to let sleeping dogs lie. 

Walter offered Keith his sofa, but he didn't want to get involved in whatever he was running from. He wasn't going to ask him because the less he knew, the better it would be. They had a history, but three years was a long time and he didn't know what Keith had been up to in the interim. 

As he stood in the kitchen drinking a glass of orange juice, he watched Keith stir on the sofa. Sitting up, Keith rubbed both hands down his face and grunted. He hung his head and sat with his forearms on his thighs and his hands hanging down between them.

He looked whipped. 

"Good Morning," Walter said.

Keith's head shot up, startled by the sound of Walter's voice.

"Morning, man," he mumbled. 

Shaking his head, he whispered, "Damn."

"You, Ok?" Walter asked politely, but was hoping he wouldn't get any come to Jesus revelations.

"No, but I'll just have to deal with it," Keith groused.

He stood up, stretch and yawned before heading to the bathroom. 

Watching him walk away, Walter wondered if Keith would tell him what had happened. Even though he'd rather not know, he still thought of him as a friend and hated to see him busted up like he was.

Keith walked back into the room rubbing his eyes. Walter thought he looked like he'd been crying. That was new. Even when he was pouring his heart out, drowning his feelings of abandonment in alcohol, he never cried. He'd been angry as hell, but he hadn't shed a tear. Now he was looking like hell, obviously broken up about something. Walter didn't know what to make of it. * Ryan was asleep when Dani woke up. She watched him remembering that as being one of her favorite pastimes. It felt odd waking up and not having him in bed with her. At home when she woke up in the middle of the night, she'd be in the safety of his arms.

Watching him now, reminded her of the child she was carrying; a child that they would both nurture and love. For the first time she wondered what he or she would look like. Would it be a boy with Ryan's smile or a girl with her brown eyes? The only thing she knew was that she would love their child completely and unconditionally.

In the end, Dani couldn't stop herself; she reached out and touched Ryan's arm. Slowly, his beautiful green eyes fluttered opened. Upon seeing her, he smiled, sat up from his slouched position and leaned forward.

"Hi, baby," he said in a gruff voice. 

But, before she could return the greeting, the nurse came in to take her vitals again.

While she was attending to Dani, Ryan went to the bathroom. When he came out, the nurse was finishing up, but Dani was sleepy again. 

Ryan sat back down and held her hand as he softly talked to her sleeping form and told her how much he loved and how lucky he was to have her in his life.

* 

Dani was awake when her parents and Crystal came in. Ryan greeted each of them with a hug. 

"Will you be here for a while?" he asked Dani's mother.

"Yes. I expect we'll be here for some time," Michelle answered. 

"Good. I need to go down to the sheriff's office and I didn't want to leave Dani alone." 

"You do what you need to do son, we'll be here." 

Turning back to Dani he said, "I just want to have a talk with Zane, but I'll be back. Ok?"

"Ok," she said softly. 

Ryan kissed her on the forehead and squeezed her hand before saying goodbye to the others. 

* 

Ryan walked into the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department Detective Division and stopped at the receptionist station. "Ryan Sinclair to see Lieutenant Montgomery," he said. 

"One moment, please," she said picking up the phone to speak to Zane.

"Lieutenant Montgomery, there's a Mr. Sinclair to see you." 

She paused to listen, then responded, "Yes, sir." 

She unlocked the electronic security doors and said, "Go right in, sir. He's in the last office to the right."

Ryan nodded and entered the central hub of the detective division. 

The main part of the division was a large open area. The detectives were partnered with their desks facing each other. On the outer periphery were smaller offices where victims or witnesses could be questioned in private. 

Ryan nodded to a few guys that he knew as he headed to Zane's office. He knocked on door and was entreated to come in. Zane was on the phone having a heated discussion with someone. 

Ryan took a seat and waited. 

Looking about, he noticed that Zane's office didn't look like the typical television detective office. For one thing, the guy was neat, almost to a fault. You really wouldn't think anyone actually got much work done with the neat stack of files at the end of his desk, but he knew Zane was exacting in his work and a stickler for details. 

His pens, pencils and markers were all in an orderly little caddy that also had a place for sticky pads. There were photographs of his family on the wall, all neatly arranged, not a crooked picture among the lot. There was a massive map of the county on one wall with mufti-colored push pin dotting some areas.

Zane was dressed in a three piece suit, minus the jacket which he had taken off and put on a hanger which hung on a coat stand. His raven hair was pulled back in a ponytail, his face hard without a trace of softness. Although Zane could make grown men squirm with just a stare, behind it all Ryan knew him as a good friend and a first class human being.

His countenance was real and part of his personality, but underneath, he was a compassionate and passionate guy. The women could attest to the latter. They loved his bad boy image, but as yet, he hadn't let a woman mean more than his job. 

Zane finished his call and reached over to shake Ryan's hand with a smile. Ryan marveled at how the smile broke away the hard planes of Zane's face. The man was a regular Lon Chaney, not with make up, but with facial expressions. One minute he could be hard and uncompromising, the next he almost look like a regular good old boy; almost. 

Sitting back in his chair, Zane took on a more serious expression and asked about Dani.

"She's doing as well as can be expected. She'll be in the hospital at least a week more. She's in ICU now, but will be moved to a private room probably tomorrow. Of course, she'll be dealing with the effects of the concussion for a while even after she's out of the hospital. The baby is doing fine, thank God," Ryan said.

"Baby?" Zane asked taken aback.

"Oh, fuck!" Ryan said, "I forgot that you didn't know. Hell, until this happened neither Dani nor I knew. She's pregnant, about six weeks."

"Congratulations," Zane said grinning. "Damn, now you'll have a kid to give you hell." 

"Hey, I never gave my folks hell, I was just a little busy," Ryan said tongue in cheek.

"Uh huh, busy. Okie Dokie, I'll let that pass for the time being," Zane said.

"Have you gotten any information?" Ryan asked eagerly. "I know it's a bit early ..." 

"Actually we do have some information," Zane interjected. 

"The case was assigned to Harley Rayell, but I'll follow it closely and relay any updates to you personally," Zane said.

"Harley ran a check with the transportation facilities, trains, airline, bus etc. Hall took a flight to Los Angeles a few hours after the attack. I have a friend on the force there and asked him to do a little checking around. We expect to hear back from him later today."

"A background check was done, checking his history in Florida and California. I'll let you know as soon as we have that information. We're doing everything that we can, which includes checking criminal background and occupational records." 

They went over everything Ryan knew about Dani's history with Hall again. Although they'd discussed it, Zane found that sometimes forgotten details came out in the retelling. 

After Ryan finished, Zane said,

"It sounds like this guy definitely has some issues. I'd really be surprised if he hasn't been in trouble before. It would be interesting to see if he's moved around frequently, that would be a red flag. I'll call you later tonight with a status report, but that's all I have right now."

Ryan nodded, stood up and held out his hand to Zane.

"I'm sorry for interrupting your vacation, but I'm glad you'll be following up on the investigation. Thank you man, I owe you one."

Zane shook his hand and said, "You don't owe me anything, Ryan, you'd do the same for me. As for the vacation, I wasn't doing a damn thing. I can take the rest of my time off at any time. This is more important."

"Yeah, but thanks just the same," Ryan said. 

He said goodbye and quickly left the office anxious to get back to Dani. 

*  A few days later the reports on Keith David Hall started hitting Rayell's desk. 

Harley Rayell was a ten year veteran of the detective division with three of those years in Citrus County where he relocated after graduating from college in Georgia.

Harley learned to appreciate the law the hard way, through incarceration in juvenile detention for two years due to a series of auto thefts and B and E's as a teenager. His record was expunged when he was twenty one years old. Because of his own experience, he knew the myriad of ways a kid could go wrong. It was for that reason that he had more than a professional interest in Hall's case. 

Hall had a juvenile record which was sealed, but had not been expunged. There was never a written request, which was required for juvenile records to be destroyed. He was able to get the entire file with a court order. It was no surprise that Hall had been in trouble before. There was one charge each of grand theft auto, assault and breaking and entering before the age of fifteen. However, Harley knew it didn't mean that those were the only crimes that Hall committed, just the ones they could prove. The Judge adjudicated the case by court ordered therapy once a week for two years and five years probation.

Somewhere around sixteen years old, Hall seemed to have gotten some control of his life and his temper. He did well in school and seemed to stay out of trouble. At least there weren't any other incidents in the court records. 

There was a separate record for the therapy. Harley would have to get another court order to get those unsealed. He would have to show the court the need in regards to this case. He thought the crime was sufficient based on the evidence. Whether Hall planned it or it just happened in the moment, Harley fully believed that if that couple hadn't arrived, he would have strangled Danielle Carter to death. 

*  The next day Zane visited Dani before going into the office. When he arrived at the hospital, Ryan was already there. He stood in the door way watching them for a few seconds. Ryan was sitting, leaning forward talking to her softly. 

He knew Ryan wasn't a man to get bowled over by women. There were plenty who threw themselves at him, but he preferred monogamous relationships. He'd told Zane he didn't need or want the drama of multiple women in his life. 




Ryan Ch. 09



Being a man who was quite happy with his single status, Zane thought that philosophy was fraught with danger. He saw it as immensely more practical to play the field which, to his thinking, provided less chance of forming attachments that could jeopardize his odds of remaining single. 

Ryan usually took his time getting to know a woman, but he'd fallen for Dani almost instantly. Now, he and Dani were going to have a baby. Zane wondered if he would ever have that in his life; a woman who understood and loved him unconditionally. The second the thought entered his mind, he chastised himself. He obviously was getting sentimental in his old age. Most of his friends were in serious relationships, but he just wasn't ready for that. 

Sighing, he rapped on the door frame.

Ryan turned and waved him in.

Zane greeted Ryan and slapped him on the back calling him old son.

"Two years older and he calls me old," Ryan said with a shake of his head.

Sitting down in the chair on the other side of the bed, Zane learned forward to talk to Dani. 

"Hi sweetie, feeling better?" he asked.

"Some," she said smiling at him.

"Good, I just wanted to come by and see for myself. I won't be droll and say you look like you're getting your color back," he said with a twinkle in his eyes. 

Dani chuckled thinking, "He really is a good looking guy when he smiles."

"Do you have any news about Keith?" she asked her voice noticeably husky. 

Dani didn't see the hard look that came over Ryan's face or the slight shake of his head to Zane. 

"Not yet, but I expect I'll hear something soon on the feelers we put out. The best thing for you, young lady, is to rest and not worry about the investigation. We'll do everything that we can to find him, make no mistake about that," Zane said firmly.

"How long will it be before you're out of this joint?" he asked, changing the subject.

"Soon," Ryan interjected.

"I spoke to the doctor and he said possibly another three or four days, if her condition keeps improving. She'll be able to finish recovering at home with follow ups with her doctor. She's still having headaches, dizziness and some blurred vision." 

"I'll check up on you once you get home," Zane told Dani. 

"Right now I have to get to the office. Ryan I'll call you later," he said rising from his chair. 

After he left, Dani looked at Ryan and whispered, "He knows something, doesn't he?"

Taking her hand, he rubbed the back of it with his thumb and said, "Yes, but they haven't found Keith yet."

Dani looked like she wanted to say something else, but before she could form the question, Ryan said,

"I want you to trust me, baby. Let us handle this and don't worry about the investigation. I want all of your energy to be spent on getting well and taking care of our baby. Promise me you'll do that." 

Tugging on Ryan's hand she said, "Come here."

Standing up, he leaned over, bringing his face in close to hers. 

Caressing the side of his face, she whispered, "I will always trust you, Ryan Sinclair. I love you."

"I love you too, sweetheart, more every day," he vowed.

He gently kissed her lips and pressed his face to her neck with a sigh as she stroked the back of his head. This was the sight that greeted her parents when they entered the room. Pulling Davis back out of the room, Michelle said is a whisper, "Let's give them a few minutes." 

Nodding, Davis steered her towards the nearby waiting room. *

Four days later, Dani was home and feeling better, but she still tired easily. 

Her parents stayed a few days longer to make sure she was well on her way to recovery. By the time they went back to Jacksonville, Dani was up, but still not in any condition to go back to work. Ryan was spending his days with her, leaving the management of the bar to Micah and Dave.

* 

Keith was still lying low in LA. It was over two weeks since he fled Florida and his friend Walter was wondering how long he would be in the dark about his predicament. But things were about to change.

That night, after watching a ball game, the local news came on. On the nationwide segment, the lead story was about a man wanted in Tampa, Florida for aggravated assault of a local pregnant woman. When Keith, who had been leaning back on the sofa, heard that, he flinched and sat up abruptly.

Walter saw the expression on Keith's face and thought, "Aw, shit! What have I gotten myself into?"

Within seconds there was an accompanying picture from his employee file and an explanation that the man was thought to be in the Los Angeles area and that anyone seeing him was not to approach him, but call The LA Police Department. 

Walter looked at Keith as if he'd grown horns.

"Fuck man, what the hell did you do?!"

Keith jumped off the sofa, pacing with his hands holding his head. Then he stopped suddenly and turned to look at Walter. 

"Shit! It wasn't like that man, I swear it wasn't. I didn't know she was pregnant! I didn't mean to hurt her. I... I...I wasn't thinking...I...oh, my god...I didn't mean to do it....I didn't... I gotta go, I gotta go!" He screeched, his voice rising. 

"Keith, Keith!" Walter shouted to get his attention. "Man, you can't keep running, that's only going to make it worse. Who is this woman, anyway?" 

Keith flopped down on the sofa and told Walter about Dani.

"I just wanted to talk to her man, I swear. Then I saw that engagement ring and I just lost it. I thought I had gotten over her. It had been over three fucking years! No one had ever told me to get lost; I was the one who dumped women. I never cared about them or their feelings, but I cared about Dani. I wanted her and she didn't give a fuck, just like my Mom," he rambled. 

Calmly, Walter talked to Keith like he was a scared child, which essentially he was. He didn't need to be a psychiatrist to figure that out.

"Listen, man; if you run you won't be able to stop looking over your shoulder. They'll find you, eventually. You and me was like brothers and even though I haven't seen you in a while, I still feel like you're my Bro. She's alive and although this is bad, it's not as bad as it could be. Tell me what you think you should do?" Walter implored. 

Rubbing his close shaved head, Keith said after a long silence, "I should turn myself in."

"Are you sure that's what you want to do, man?" Walter asked, testing Keith's resolve. 

"No, it's not what I want to do, but it's what I have to do. I can't run the rest of my life. That's what I've been doing my entire life. I needed to go back into therapy when my Grandma died, she was my rock. When I lost her, I felt all of the old anger coming back. Now, look where the hell I am," he said on the verge of tears.

He was torn up about what he did to Dani and how he'd let his feelings spiral out of control. Worst of all, he knew without a doubt that in his blind rage he could have killed her. 

* 

Zane sat in his office wondering if their plan would work. 

He followed up on all the background information on Hall. Rayell had done a thorough job. After he'd done everything he could, he hit upon the idea of flushing Hall out via a news broadcast in LA. He'd approached Zane with the idea. Zane approved it and called his contract in the LA Police Department to set it up.

He and Zane knew that Hall was holding up somewhere, but would likely have access to a television. Either he or someone he knew would see the broadcast. If they had any luck, they'd get a lead or Hall would try to make a run for it. They had a watch out at all the commercial travel outlets. 

*

Zane received his answer a couple of days later, around two in the afternoon. He was in his office going over the evidence in another case when Patrick Hennessy called him. 

Hennessy was a fifteen year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department; a big bruiser of an Irishman. 

"Hey, Pat, tell me you've got something," Zane said.

"Man, you are not going to believe this; the kid just walk into the station," Hennessy said.

"Damn, you mean Hall turned himself in?" Zane asked in disbelief.

"Yeah. He wants to make a full confession. It surprised the hell out of me. He's an emotional wreck, man; I think he truly regrets what he did. In spite of feeling sorry for the guy, I'd still want to kick his ass if I were the fiancé."

"Yeah, I know what you mean. Ryan would like nothing better than to do just that, but I'm relieved that Hall came in. If we hadn't been able to find him, I might not have been able to stop Ryan from tracking Hall down," Zane said.

"Well, it's just as well he came in," Hennessy agreed.

"When do you think you can pick him up?"

"Hopefully, I can book a flight within 24 hours," Zane said.

"All right," Patrick said, "It'll be good seeing you again."

*  Dani was helping Ryan prepare dinner.

This was the first time since she got out of the hospital that he'd let her do anything that required any effort. Her man loved her, but she was hard pressed not to start gritting her teeth. She let him know that she understood his fears, but she and the baby were doing fine and she wasn't about to take any chances. 

Ryan was leaning against the kitchen counter while she cut up the vegetables for the spaghetti sauce. He had a great recipe that he'd gotten from his mom. They were having it with wheat pasta, garlic bread and a side salad. For a treat, Ryan bought pralines 'n cream ice cream from Baskin Robbins which was Dani's favorite with butter pecan coming in a close second. 

So far she didn't have any food cravings. Her mother had become a cottage cheese and peanut butter junkie when she was pregnant with James. Although Dani liked peanut butter and cottage cheese separately, the thought of combining them made her stomach turn. 

After she finished with the vegetables, she ran them through the food processor before putting them in a pan with the other ingredients, pureed tomatoes, a little olive oil and seasonings. She brought the mixture to a boil, reduced the heat and let the sauce simmer. 

She turned to see Ryan watching her intently and started to feel warm under his regard. He grinned at her when he saw her lick her top lip nervously. Before she knew it, he reached out and pulled her into his arms. For a few seconds she just stared at him wide eyed. 

He held her, but didn't move away from the counter. He loved the feel of her soft body flush against his hard frame and wanted to savor the moment. He inhaled deeply, breathing in her sweet scent while caressing that spectacular bottom. 

"What are we going to do about the wedding?" he asked.

Dani considered the question for a bit then answered.

"I don't want to wait until April; my belly will be huge by then. I'm proud to have our baby, but if you don't mind, could we get married sooner?" She asked. 

Smiling, he said, "Whew! I thought you'd want to postpone the wedding until after he was born. We can't be married soon enough for me. A Justice of the Peace will do just fine, just say the word."

"Hold on cowboy," Dani urged, "Not so fast. I didn't say anything about a Justice of the Peace. If we can have a small wedding with family and a few friends here, that would be great. We could have everything arrange in about three weeks, I think." 

"That's fine with me," Ryan said.

"I never wanted you to be stressed by the wedding arrangements, even more so now. There wasn't time to discuss it with you before, but Mom and Haley have approached me about our plans. I want you to make the decisions, but I think it's a good idea to let them take care of the arrangements instead of using a wedding planner." 

Dani considered what he said and knew that she felt more than comfortable with his mother and Haley to let them help. More than that, she trusted that they wouldn't try to take over. Besides, now that she was pregnant, she didn't really want to have to deal with someone she didn't know.

Leaning her head on his chest, she said, "That sounds like a great idea." 

"Good," he said and kissed the top of her head.

Taking her hand, he led her into the living room to sit on the sofa to continue their conversation. They were still talking about the wedding when Ryan's cell phone went off. Looking at the caller ID, he saw that it was Zane. 

"Hey, Zane," he greeted.

Without preamble Zane said:

"He came in, Ryan. Hall walked into the police department in Los Angeles and turned himself in. You could have knocked me over with a feather when I heard that. Shit, who would have figured?" 

"Damn, what the hell did he say?" Ryan asked leaning forward.

Dani was anxious to know what was going, but tamped down her impatience.

"According to Pat, he wanted to give a full confession. Pat says Hall was talkative and confirmed his emotional problems and that he was sorry for what he did, but he didn't try to make excuses. That's something at least."

"Yeah."

"Are you going to pick him up or someone else?" Ryan asked.

"Both Harley and I are going, I've already booked a flight," Zane assured him. 

"We should have him back here in a couple of days. He'll be locked up until the trial, no bail. I'm pretty sure they'll want to give him a psych evaluation. Oh, we did get the juvenile psychiatric file. I'll let you know what's in it later, but let's just say he was a disaster waiting to happened." 

"All right," Ryan sighed. 

He was happy that Hall had done the sensible thing, but he seriously wanted to smash the guy's face in and slowly break every bone in his body. 

"How is Dani doing?" Zane asked.

"Much better, thank God," Ryan said with feeling. 

"Why don't you come by for dinner tomorrow, about... six thirty? You can see how she's doing for yourself. We haven't had you over in a while."

"Good to hear she's doing better. As for dinner, I'd love to and six thirty is fine. Give Dani my love. See you then buddy. Bye," Zane said hastily. 

"Bye," Ryan returned, wondering at Zane's abruptness. Something was up with him, but that would have to wait. 

"What was that all about?" Dani asked.

"Hall turned himself in to the police in LA. Zane is going to pick him up and bring him back," Ryan told her.

"I guess I'll have to testify, huh?" She asked not looking forward to it.

"Maybe not," Ryan said. "If he confesses and waives his right to a trial, you won't have to testify. The judge will just hand down the verdict, sentence him and he'll do his time, which depends on the charges. From what Zane said, he's going to need and probably get court ordered therapy. "

"I hope he waives a trial. I really don't want to see him again. I'm sorry for his problems, but he could have just stayed away from me," Dani said.

"I understand, baby. I'm not sure I could be in his presence and not beat the hell out of him," Ryan said, clinching his jaw.

* 

Since Dani's been home, for obvious reasons, Ryan refrained from making love to her. However, it didn't mean that his body was immune. He'd had to take things into his own hands on more than one occasion and often he was awakened in the middle of the night with an aching erection. He was use to making love to her thoroughly and often; she never minded being awaken and he always made it worth her while.

Since Dani's been home he'd worn pajamas for the first time in years. He'd hoped that less skin contact would keep his dick in check, but they hadn't done a thing except rub against his hard on and make it worse. 

He was cuddled against Dani in the spoon position when he had the odd thought that he just might rub himself raw if his late night activities continued for long. That made him chuckle, which got Dani's attention.

Turning over in his arms, she asked, "What's so funny?"

"Just a random thought that made me laugh. Did I wake you?" he asked.

"No," she said with a sigh, "I can't seem to sleep."

She stroked Ryan's broad chest and said, "Maybe you can think of something that would help.... eventually."

"Are you sure you're ready for that," Ryan asked not certain that she needed that kind of physical activity. He might be hesitant, but the hardening of his penis declared that he wasn't opposed to the idea; he just didn't want to hurt her.

"Yes." she said and kissed his strong jaw.

"When I had my check up yesterday, I wasn't put on any restrictions. My doctor just told me to return to my normal activities as I was able; you know that. My headaches are gone for the most part, the blurring in my vision and the dizziness are completely gone. I thought you'd get the hints I've been throwing out the last couples of days, but every time I tried to start something, you'd distract me."

"I don't want to hurt you, baby," Ryan explained.

"I know you're trying to protect me, but honestly I'm much better now and I want to make love with you."

"Oh, yeah," he said with a grin, feeling his cock stir against her belly.

"Ummm yeah," she sighed. "The baby won't mind either."

Rolling Dani onto her back, Ryan started divesting her of her gown. At the same time she was trying to unbutton his pajama top. With the tangles of hands and arms, as usual they weren't making much process, which made Dani giggle. 

"By the way," she said, pausing in her exploration of his chest, "why have you been wearing pajamas?"

When he told her, she gave a bark of laughter.

"It didn't work, did it?" she asked.

"Not a damn bit," he said while nuzzling her neck.

Dani could feel the heat of Ryan's big body even through his pajamas. Wearing them had done nothing to cool her ardor either. Her man was hot in more than one way. However, she hadn't known that he'd gotten up in the middle of the night to jack off. She wished she could have seen it, but she knew just looking wouldn't have been enough.

"Aw baby, I'm going to need to make it up to you," she said with a sassy grin.

"Uh, huh," Ryan nodded, starting to lose himself in the heated scent of her arousal.

Eventually they managed to get all their clothing off. Both of them were eager to satisfy each other after what they considered to be a long drought. 

"Lie back, baby," Ryan ordered, taking a ragged breath.

Dani did as he said and pulled him on top of her heated body. He was careful to keep most of his upper body weight on his forearms. He was always conscious of his size while making love to her, even more so now. 

Leaning over her, he brushed his lips against her forehead, then her eyes and nose. Sliding down further, he flicked his tongue against the corner of her mouth. Dani's lips parted on a whispery sigh and he moved to taste inside, his tongue sweeping into the warm opening, thrusting gently.

Moaning, she arched her body, feeling the urgency of lost time. Ryan's tongue feasted while his hands roamed the hills and valleys, caressing her breasts, urging her nipples into hard twin peaks. 

Leaving the sweet warmth of her mouth, he plumped her breast into his hand and held it for his oral ministrations. After sucking in the dark pebble, he stroked it with the tip of his tongue, teasing the center. He missed the taste of her creamy caramel flesh, the sound of her rasping gasps as she withered in pleasure; the heat and fire of her beckoning desire.

Gently, Ryan bit the nipple and Dani groaned feeling a piercing sensation travel from her aching breast to her pulsing pussy. She stroked his head as she offered up her body for his enjoyment, luxuriating in his arousal. Turning his attention to her other breast, he elicited a flood of moisture from her vaginal channel which seeped into the dark cleft between her buttocks. Dani was on fire, melting under the heat of growing passion.

Moving down her body, Ryan encountered her navel and laved it with his tongue, plunging into its deep well. But he didn't linger, it was too close to the object of his desire, the spicy sweet richness of her luscious pussy. 




Ryan Ch. 09



As he hovered at her center, he took her leg and draped it over his shoulder. Dani's body tingled in anticipation. With her pussy on full display, he kissed his way down and over her mons feeling her flesh pulse against his lips. By this time, she was pleading with him, her heart racing, her body straining for release. It seemed like forever since she felt this razor sharp edge of desire.

"Ryan... please."

"Mmmmm," he moaned as he suckled on her clit turning her body into jelly, the aroma assailing his nostrils and heightening his own passion. 

Panting now, Dani implored him.

"Ryan... baby...I want you in... in... meeeee!"

She screeched as he sucked hard on her clitoris and sent her spiraling into a mind numbing orgasm that went on and on and on, taking her breath even as she fought to regain it. Gasping, her body first stiffened then jerked into rolling waves of throbbing intense pleasure. 

Dani screamed through her orgasm as Ryan licked and suck at her clit and her over flowing pussy, lapping up her juices and grunting in his need for more. He was like a man on the verge of starvation who'd been offered an enormous feast. He couldn't get enough, fast enough. All of his love and pent up fears poured out in the form of his ravenous sexual appetite. The room spun and at the peak of climax, Dani's mind went blank.

When she regained awareness, she could still feel the gentle throbbing ebb of her spent passion. She was wrapped in Ryan's arms, his kisses raining upon the moist skin of her breasts as he stroked them. His touch was tender rather than sexual, soothing rather than arousing. With the world set back upon its axis, Dani fought to hold back the tears as she experienced a tidal wave of emotions. She had never felt more loved, more needed, more wanted in her entire life. 

Slowly, Ryan's hand fell to her abdomen, caressing with gentle fingers. Dani knew that he was thinking about their baby. She caressed his shoulder as he made his way down her body and kissed her lower belly, humming as he did so. Looking up, he smiled at her, his green eyes sparkling with happiness and love in the ambient lighting of the room.

"It's going to be great when he gets bigger. You'll be round and sexy and I won't be able to keep my hands off of you. I might have to keep you in bed 24/7 just to indulge my fascination with your changing body." 

"Great, huh?" Dani said with a sigh. 

"I'm going to look like a hot air balloon. I'll have to be rolled over to get settled in a comfortable position. You'll need to find a 24-hour market too, because I'll have all kinds of food cravings and I'll get moody and weepy." 

"I'll love you no matter what your body looks like, no matter the hormonal changes," Ryan said as he pulled up beside her and swept her hair back from her pretty face. 

"But if you start wanting ice cream with sardines, I might have to hurl a few times." 

"Ewww!" Dani said with a giggle. 

"As long as you're happy with me, I'm satisfied," she said. 

"I love our baby and he can make whatever changes he needs to make to my body in order to be healthy."

"I love you, sweetheart and I love this little guy," he said, rubbing her belly.

Then, smiling at her he said, "He's the little guy until I have proof to the contrary." 

"That's fine with me. I don't care what the sex is, just that he's healthy," Dani stated as she stroked his broad shoulders.

Ryan agreed.

"Now," he said, pulling her on top of his body, "we have unfinished business." 

Dani straddled Ryan and took hold of his penis which had remained erect as they talked. She placed the head at the entrance to her vagina and stroked it up and down the slit, heightening her arousal. As she slowly slid down on it, she gasped at the fullness, sighing when she hit bottom. 

When fully seated, she stilled just watching him and the play of emotions across his handsome face. His eyes glowed with contentment and his lips curled into a sexy confident smile. 

Ryan caressed her smooth thighs as she watched him. He loved the view of Dani riding his cock; her breath shallow as he gently rotated his hips, her breasts heaving. When his fingers stroked the place where they were joined, she closed her eyes and licked her full lips at the aching need.

Slowly she felt the heat build in her core as Ryan seduced her with his eyes and caressed her inner walls with that small movement of his hips. Unable to remain still, she pushed up on her knees and started an up and down motion that was soon joined by the thrust of his hefty cock.

Looking down at her man, she shivered under his lustful gaze and increased the pace. In control, she rode him in delicious pleasure, awed yet again by how thoroughly he filled her. She loved the girth of his manhood and the strength of his large body. 

When Ryan thrust upward her eyes fluttered and closed as she felt the warm inner walls of her pussy throb. She was close, so close... Just a few more thrusts....a few more...

Before the thought fully formed, Dani was thrown into the vortex of another breathtaking climax, moaning blissfully as Ryan's joined her with gruff shouts of pleasure while they both ascended into glorious sweet contentment. 

In the aftermath, Ryan watched Dani as she slept in his arms. He thought that they were a perfect fit. He loved the enjoyment she took in his body and the reciprocation of her own without hesitation. She'd come a long way from virgin to a lover that had no peer. His need for her was more than physical, it was a bond of the spirit that would always join their love, their lives and seal their fate.



Ryan Ch. 10



Dani awakened to a churning stomach. She jumped out of bed and ran to bathroom where, unable to make it to the toilet, she released the contents of her stomach into the vanity bowl. For the first time her child was making his presence known. 

She remained in a bent position until the nausea eased a bit. After taking a couple of deep breaths she quickly brushed her teeth before her gag reflex could engage. Apparently the baby didn't like her usual minty toothpaste, but fortunately, she didn't heave again. After she finished, she headed to the kitchen in search of some crackers.

Dani heard from her mother that the dry Saltine crackers would set her stomach right. She'd thought there might be some left over from the chili Ryan made a couple of days after Christmas. These particular Saltines didn't have any salt on top, which were much more to her liking. The last thing she needed was sodium induced high blood pressure, especially while she was pregnant.  

As she approached the kitchen she briefly wondered where Ryan was, but settling her stomach was the more pressing matter. The crackers were located in a slide out drawer next to the oatmeal. There was one section that hadn't been opened yet. She took a few crackers out and resealed the package with the twist tie. Taking a bite, she was pleased to hear the familiar crunch of freshness as she went back to the bathroom to take a shower. Then she thought she'd go in search of her man. 

*                   

Ryan was sitting on the sofa engrossed in a phone call when Dani entered the living room. He was bare foot and wearing a pair of old faded Jeans which were unbuttoned. Sitting down next to him, she leaned against his warm body taking comfort in his strength. 

He placed a hand on her thigh as he continued his conversation. Dani soon realized that he was talking to Zane.

"I'm happy about that too," Ryan said in response to something Zane said. 

"Well, I thought that would be the best news you could hear out of this mess," Zane offered. 

"He'll have his sentencing before the judge and that will be it. His court appointed attorney wanted to put in a temporary insanity plea, but Hall refused. Of course they'd done the psyche exams which made it evident that he was entirely competent to make that decision."

"I guess he is taking responsibility for what he did," Ryan said, "but won't the courts consider his mental state at the time of the attack?" 

"I don't think that will affect the amount of time he gets," Zane said. "He does have some serious issues and not only with his mother abandoning him. He also has anger issues directly related to his father."

"Why was that?" Ryan asked, confused. "I thought he had a good relationship with his father." 

"Not exactly, although that's the impression he gave people," Zane said.

"His father was only a kid himself when he got Hall's mother pregnant. He spent most of his time running the streets and that didn't stop after Hall's birth. As a matter of fact, it got worse, according to Hall's grandmother. Hall loved her, but she wasn't a parent and he became more aware of the implication of that as he got older. Over the years the anger at the lack of attention from his father grew. That, along with the abandonment of his mother, manifested itself in acts of violence and illegal activities." 

Zane paused to take a deep breath before continuing. 

"When his reunion with his mother didn't work as planned he got fixated on Dani, but didn't know how to handle it. As you know, his possessiveness drove her away. But the relationship was doomed anyway you look at it because Dani didn't return his feelings."

After considering Ryan's initial question, Zane said, "Instead of getting a reduction in time, he's more likely to get court appointed psychiatric sessions in the join."

"Damn," Ryan said, "you never know how people are going to deal with things. Someone else with the same upbringing might have been able to cope. In any event, as long as he stays away from Dani, I'll be happy and he'll stay alive."

"I hear you," Zane said understanding Ryan's feelings completely.

"That's all I know for now. I'll call you if anything else comes up, but right now I gotta get ready for a... uh, date."

"A date? That sounds interesting," Ryan stated with humor. 

"Wanna tell me about her?"

"Uh, that would be no. I'm not sure about her myself, but she is something," Zane offered feeling like the room was getting hot just thinking about Alex. Alexandra.

"Ok, I won't press. Hope it works out man," Ryan said.

"Thanks," Zane said anxious to get off the phone now. 

"later." 

Then he was gone.

Looking at Dani, Ryan said, "Sounds like some woman might have Zane twisted in a knot."

"It's about time," she said with a chuckle.

*       Valentine's Day was coming up soon. Dani knew that a lot of people thought it was romantic to have a wedding on that day, but she wanted her wedding to have its own special day. All things considered, she decided on February the twenty fifth which was on a Saturday. 

Haley and Helen were spearheading the whirlwind of wedding activities with the help of Crystal, Charlotte and Jessica. Monica wanted to help, but was at a crucial point with the renovating of her home, which had gone on longer than she and Grant had hoped.

With the date firmly set, they got to the business of arranging the wedding ceremony and reception. Each of them, except for Crystal, had been through the preparations before and pretty much knew the drill. In very short order the decisions were made and the vendors were contacted.

Dani and Ryan applied for and received their marriage license. It was all coming together with only a few details remaining. 

The invitations were printed up and sent out right away to give everyone a few weeks notice.

Dani decided to do without a bachelorette party. To her way of thinking there was enough to do without having the extra stress of arranging and attending that event. Although Charlotte and Crystal were willing to arrange it, they understood. 

Ryan didn't want a bachelor party either. He told her he already felt married and didn't need to say goodbye to his bachelorhood with of night of drink and debauchery. The last was said with a leer and a grin. 

They already had the rehearsal scheduled and there would be a casual luncheon afterward for the wedding party. Haley gently insisted that Dani let her make the arrangements and take care of the expense of the event as a wedding gift. Dani graciously accepted. 

The floral arrangements for the wedding would be comprised of various shades of blue, mauve and white flowers. The bridal bouquet was the traditional white roses. Dani chose a lightly scented variety, particularly since she had become sensitive to certain cloying sweet smells as a result of the pregnancy. 

The guest list burgeoned from a few friends and family to a hundred and fifty people. In the end it just became impossible to leave some people off of the list. As Ryan predicted their parents had friends they wanted to invite. 

For the music, she and Ryan chose a local band, Roxxslide, who primarily played 70's and 80's music, but were also known for their own original songs. She and Ryan enjoyed their music on several occasions at the Phoenix Club where they played three nights a week.

With everything else in place, there was only one thing remaining; the wedding dress.              

*                    

A couple of days after the invitations were sent out, Crystal and Haley met with Dani to solidify the final plans. The bride maids' dresses had been chosen and they were good to go. She'd shipped Trina's dress to her and luckily it only needed minor alterations. Now she turned her attention to her own gown. 

"If you want to shop locally," Haley said, "there's a vintage shop on seventh avenue, a really good dressmaker off Westshore Boulevard and a bridal shop at the mall that carries designer dresses. We could even go to London or Paris and find something pretty easily, if you prefer."

"What?!" Dani said with a gasp.

"Yeah, that's an option," she grinned.

"Ryan did say you could get whatever you wanted." 

"Well, I think I can find something I'd love right here. We might as well check out all of the stores you mentioned. I'm hoping to get this done in one day," Dani said.

"Do you have any idea of the style you would like?" Crystal asked.

"I think something simple with some beading on it. I prefer white, not beige or ecru or cream. I look good in white," she said with a cheeky grin. 

Then turning her head to the side she said, 

"I would really love to wear red, but it would be breaking with tradition."  

"Red!" Both Crystal and Haley squeaked.

The look on their faces was priceless and made Dani roar with laughter. Wiping the tears from her eyes she said, 

"Ok. I'm only teasing. Man, if you could have seen the looks on your faces." 

"You're gotten sassy since you've been pregnant," Crystal declared with a smile.

"You gave me a great idea, Crystal."

Seeing her sister's puzzled look, she explained, 

"I'm going to blame everything I do on the baby. Ryan is sure to let me have my way," she teased. 

Snorting, in an unladylike like fashion, Haley retorted,

"Who are you kidding? You don't need the baby for that, Ryan thinks the sun rises and sets with you. He'll let you do anything you want anyway."

"Well, that's true to a certain extent," Dani agreed, "but your brother can be stubborn, especially if he thinks what he's doing is in my best interest. I love him for that, though. He takes very good care of me." 

"That's how it should be," Haley said. 

With that they headed out to get an early start.

* 

By the end of the day Dani had her dress. She decided on a white satin sleeveless a-line princess style dress with a scalloped edge v-neck and a beaded empire waist. The back of the dress had a lovely peephole. It was simple yet sophisticated dress that showed off Dani's figure to perfection. 

Instead of wearing a veil, she decided to have her hair styled in an upward swept adorned with tiny white flowers in the back. With everything now completed she had time to exhale before the big day.

*

The wedding plans might have been finalized, but Ryan was making plans of his own. He met with his lawyer to make sure he had enough insurance and to update his will including beneficiary designation and estate planning. 

Ryan wanted to have a very long life with Dani, but knew that unforeseen circumstances occurred. He wasn't wasting time getting all the paperwork signed. In the event of his death, Dani and their children would be financially secure for the rest of their lives. 

After taking care of that business, his mind turned to plans for Valentine's Day. Dani hadn't mentioned anything about celebrating it, but he didn't know if that was because she didn't expect anything or because she'd just been too busy with planning the wedding. Since this was their first Valentine's Day together he wanted to make it extra special.  

His mother and sister were big on Valentine's Day. He doubted either of them would have missed the opportunity to at least mention it to Dani. He knew she wouldn't ask for anything, but hoped that would change once they were married. He wanted her to know that everything that he had was hers. 

There were a myriad of choices for a romantic day, but Ryan decided to do something a little different. Instead of just one day, he would make it a week of surprises for Dani. He wasn't going to arrange anything elaborate, but he would make sure that both of them would enjoy the outcome of his planning.

* 

Dani was coming out of a deep sleep. Usually the closer she came to consciousness, the more she become aware of the presence of Ryan's warm hard body. But as she surfaced it was apparent that he wasn't lying beside her. 

She slowly opened her eyes, but didn't immediately make anything of his absence. Since she became pregnant, she was sleeping later than usual and although occasionally he remained in bed with her, most often he'd be up making breakfast or attending to business. 

As she looked around, her eyes lit upon an envelope on his pillow. Sitting up, she stifled a yawn and settled back to open it. Inside was a beautiful Valentine Day card. Under the card's sentiments was Ryan's handwritten message. 

You are the love of my life. Words cannot adequately express the joy and light you bring to world. Follow the trail of rose petals and come be mine.              Looking down at the floor, Dani gasped. There was a trail of deep yellow rose petals leading to the en suite bathroom. She got out of bed and followed their path. Not surprisingly it reminded her of the yellow brick road from the Wizard of Oz. It was more than fitting since her man was a wizard of sorts making all of her dreams come true. Her eyes widen as she entered the bathroom and saw that the large tub was filled with a topping of bubbles and more rose petals. 

On the vanity was a small boom box with a note: Play me. 

Dani smiled and turned it on. Immediately her heart fluttered when she heard the words to one of her favorite songs, When a Man Loves a Woman by Percy Sledge. She felt the sting of tears and thought, "God, I love him so much." After she wiped away the tears she noticed something else.

On the other side of the long vanity was a box of heart shaped truffles already opened to display the creamy goodness inside. Candles were lit, the mildly sweet scent of magnolia blending with that of the roses to create a deliciously sensual fragrance.

"Where is Ryan?" she wondered briefly, but the open box of candy was too much of a temptation. 

Dani took a truffle out of the box and plopped it into her mouth. She felt the warmth of her mouth melt the silky smooth confection in a gush of oral ecstasy. Truffles were one of her few chocolate indulgences. Ryan knew her weakness. 

After washing her face, she brushed her teeth then savored another rich creamy treat. The flavor of that one was tainted by the toothpaste, so she convinced herself that she just had to have one more to get rid of the odd taste; then another and another.

While brushing her hair, she felt a little flutter and wonder if it was the baby, but it was gone so quickly she could almost believe that she imagined it. Rubbing her belly, she told the baby that she loved him, had loved him from the moment she knew he existed. 

"This baby is definitely going to be spoiled," she thought, but she also knew that they would teach him about the important things in life. Things like family, loyalty and social responsibility. 

After she finished brushing her hair she headed over to the tub. It was then that she saw the small bell on the tub deck with a note attached: Ring Me!

Dani rang the bell and waited. Within moments, Ryan appeared, completely naked with a yellow ribbon bow wrapped around his penis. As he smiled at her, she whispered, "Oh, my."

Bowing with a flourish Ryan said," You rang, Milady?"

Dani giggled as he crossed the room and took her into his arms. Looking down at her beautiful glowing face he said, "Happy Valentine Day, sweetheart."

Caressing his chest, she reminded him, "That's not for another week." 

"I'm practicing for the big day."

"In that case," she said, "Happy Valentine Day, sweetheart," and removed the ribbon from around her now erect present. 

Ryan held Dani by her hips while he kissed her deeply. For a long while he feasted on the interior of her mouth before breaking contact, eliciting a drawn out groan from her. He gave her a quick peck on the lips and stroked her firm buttocks before he walked over to the bath tub to test the water temperature. 

It was perfect. 

Dani watched him expectantly as he slowly walked back to where she stood, her body already preparing for him. He undressed her quickly and helped her into the tub before getting in and sitting behind her. 

Dani lay back against Ryan's broad chest enjoying the feel of his muscled frame and the warm water surrounding her. For a few moments he kissed her shoulders and ran his hands over her full breasts. He gently stroked her satin thighs and her belly, saying hello to his child. 

Ryan lathered up a thick white cloth and started to bathe her using lightly scented bath soap. Dani luxuriated in the feel of the cloth and his hands over her body noticing that her breasts were more sensitive with her pregnancy. 

Afterward, she bathed Ryan making sure that she was thorough in her ministrations. The tub was huge, large enough for both of them to move about in comfort. It was also able to keep the water warm for a long time, which Dani greatly appreciated since she was in no hurry to leave its confines or Ryan's arms. 

Some time later, they got out and Ryan led her over to the walk in shower where they rinsed the residue of soap away and enjoyed the massaging jets. When they were finished, they dried each other with large fluffy white towels warmed on the heating rack. Ryan kissed Dani softly on her moist lips assuring her that the pampering was far from over.

He wrapped her in a soft white robe and carried her to the Gym. Even though Dani had practically moved in months ago, the gym had remained Ryan's domain. She knew the benefits of regular exercise, but wasn't disciplined enough to actually set aside time to do it. Fortunately, she had a robust metabolism and didn't have trouble maintaining her weight and a toned body through regular activities. 

The gym wasn't just an exercise room though, it had state of the art exercise equipment, weights, a commercial treadmill, a beverage refrigerator, a wall mounted television and a separate massage area.

Ryan had a professional masseur come in once a week at one time, but right now he wasn't interest in a massage of the usual variety. He'd used massage before as a creative way to enhance sexual pleasure with a partner, but not in this gym. 

Now that he had Dani, he was seriously thinking about using this space for sexual play on a regular basis. As taxing as exercise was, he knew that exercising together could be a real turn on for both of them. He might even be able to entice her into exercising naked. Just the thought of that was making his penis throb as he carried her over to the massage set up. 

He placed Dani gently on the table on her back and started the massage at her feet adding sweet scented oils to facilitate the effortless glide of his hands. Dani's entire body was overly sensitive because of her pregnancy and it didn't take long for her to reach a fever pitch, but Ryan was intent on finding out just how long he could make it last.

He took her feet, one at a time, into his hands and massaged them slicking the oils between her toes as he went along. He slid along the bottom kneading as she watched him intently. 

Then he traveled up her legs, first one then the other, around her calves pursuing a path up her inner thighs. Ryan spent long minutes on her thighs adding more oil, enjoying the slight tremor he felt there as he firmly massaged her warm flesh. 

"Close your eyes, baby," he urged.

Dani sighed and closed her eyes which enhanced all of her other senses, making his slow seduction more intense. 

When he reached her mons, Ryan caressed her lightly and felt her shudder. He was proud of his handy work and knew she was remembering how he'd shaved and neatly trimmed her last night while she sat with her heels on the vanity, her thighs splayed. By the time he finished the juices were flowing from her pussy and he was nearly drunk with desire. She'd squealed in delight and held his head as he devoured her taking his fill of her sweet essence.

Dani squirmed on the table and opened her thighs to him. Ryan was drawn to the nub at the top of her sex and the heady scent of her arousal. He continued to stroke her thighs as he lowered his head and nibbled at her clitoris causing a firestorm in Dani's core. She stifled a moan as he moved lower and sucked her labia, his tongue caressing and licking between the slippery folds.




Ryan Ch. 10



Aching with need Dani tried to close her thighs, but Ryan held her fast flicking his tongue in and out of her, grunting as he filled a need that will only ever be temporally satisfied. Her fingers twined in his hair holding tight as the walls of her pussy tingled and pulsed with a gnawing aching need. 

She was on the verge of release when Ryan groaned deeply, kissed her pussy and raised his head, his lower face smeared with her abundant juices. He breathed in deeply, his head swimming from the depth of his passion and the tang of her flesh. Before Dani could react, he plunged his tongue back into her opening, ravenous in his lust and relentless in his need to bring her the most perfect pleasure. 

The heat pooled in her vagina then spread upward to her belly and upward still to her overly sensitive breasts which where cupped firmly in her hands as she sought to ease the sharp pleasure/pain of arousal. Her body was on fire, and she yearned for the blaze that led to the little death.

With moans of delicious pleasure and her restless movements Dani urged Ryan on as he made a meal of her nether region. Then he moved his lips back to her clit, his fingers taking up a smooth glide in and out of her saturated pussy. Dani's grasp on his hair tightened as she felt the tentacles of pleasure throbbed along the lining of her core.

Ryan's breathing became more labored, sweat beaded upon his forehead and as Dani surged upward he bit her clitoris sending her body into screaming bucking spasms. Her screams bounced around the room and she lost consciousness. 

*

Dani was limp after her orgasm, languid in the sweet afterglow. Ryan's face was against her belly. After a few minutes he gently began massaging her soothingly from waist to breasts. With a gleam in his eyes he smiled and said, 

"I need to master getting through the entire massage before I give you the orgasm."

Dani smiled and said, "You don't hear me complaining, do you?"

"You're just too damn sexy." 

"Well, there's still time for you to get the hang of it," she said with a sassy grin. "Now is as good a time as any, besides little Ryan needs some attention."

"I was hoping you'd say that," Ryan leered. 

Turning Dani onto her stomach, Ryan urged her to her knees then got onto the table and knelt behind her. She was firm and soft at the same time and he couldn't resist leaning forward and kissing both sexy cheeks. Dani groaned feeling that familiar ache. 

Ryan pours oil on her silky plump mounds and allowed it to flow into the crack between them. He quickly massaged the oil into her awesome ass letting his fingers travel between the orbs to stroke her sensitive crinkled back passage. With the first touch of his fingers on her anus, Dani gasped and stilled. 

"Like that, baby?" he asked as he continued to tease the tiny rosette.

"Yes," Dani squeaked, her thighs trembling.

Then she looked back at him, smiled and wiggled her ass. 

"More please."

Ryan chuckled. 

He appreciated the gesture and rewarded her by slapping her ass sharply. Surprised, Dani jumped and shrieked at the same time. 

"Ummm, baby," she cooed. "More."

Whack! Whack! Whack!

"Oh, fuckkk!" 

Whack! Whack! Whack! Whack!

"Oooh, yeah, oh yeah, oh yeahhhh," she moaned, her pussy burning. 

Ryan caressed her cheeks to soothe them then quickly aligned his cock with her slit and thrust forward. When he bottomed out, he groaned painfully, the pleasure was so deep. The walls of her pussy tightened around his cock causing it to swell and squirt warm pre-cum. 

He held her hips as he set up a pounding rhythm, fucking with long strokes of his dick and then short thrusts. Dani pushed back as he thrust forward, her orgasm beginning to build again. Soon the heat became a fire, their juices mingling, their groans and grunts joining, melding together as they both climbed the heights of glorious pleasure. Then with one last forceful thrust they spiralled into the inferno of a blindingly powerful climax. 

Afterward Dani lost her stability and collapsed on the table. Ryan quickly rolled over onto his side next to her and pulled her into his body. Sated, they remained in that position for some time. 

When Ryan was able to roust himself he kissed Dani on the forehead and said with a chuckle, 

"Damn, you wore me out. I think I'd better leave the full massage for another day."  

"Yeah, some day," Dani teased.                  

*

During the next few days, Dani was treated to one surprise after the other. The very next day, Ryan arranged for a repeat of their first date. They drove to the theater together, but she got out first and went to stand near the line, just as she did the first time. 

As far as they could recall, they did everything pretty much as they did on the first time including the scene in the parking lot and the cafe. However, when they left, instead of going to separate homes and satisfying themselves, they went home together and made sweet gentle love to each other in their big bed, in the place that was now Dani's home. 

The third day they took in a play at Ruth Eckerd Hall.

On the fourth day, she received four dozens red roses.

On the fifth day, they cooked a romantic meal at home. After eating, Ryan cleared the center of the living room so that they could dance to some sexy slow tunes. Later they watched an old black and white romantic comedy with Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn on DVD. Dani was in heaven and didn't know what to expect next.

On the sixth day, they had an early dinner at a gulf-side restaurant and then took a leisurely walked on the beach at sunset. The sunset was glorious, it's only rival was the one at the beach house in Sarasota. Every day came with a Valentine Day card and a sweet message from Ryan.

When Valentines Day finally arrived, Ryan prepared a picnic lunch that they laid out in the gazebo which was adjacent to the lake. They ate, cuddled, talked and watched the ducks swim by.

That night, Ryan prepared a dinner of Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Red Pepper-tomato Sauce, Saltimbocca of Zucchini and dinner rolls. For dessert he made a Hazelnut Semifreddo. Afterward, he presented her with 18k gold San Marco bracelet followed by another long night of deliciously sensual loving. 

*                                            

The day of the wedding was absolutely gorgeous.

It might have been winter, but in their part of the world the sun was out and the sky was blue. There were just a few puffy white clouds to add a bit of whimsy to the celebration. Their backyard space was manicured and decorated to create a serene wonderland filled with beautiful plants and flowers with the backdrop of the massive waterfall.

The gazebo, which was the center of the ceremony, was decorated with white, blue and mauve flowers. The white columns were adorned with silky light blue sheers, which were wrapped around them. 

Ryan had a built in speaker system for those times when he hosted parties. The music could be heard all over the property, so that no matter where the wedding guests were, the sound would be as clear as if they had a front row seat. 

As the guests arrived they were entertained by the band playing some of their original songs.

Dani was so excited she felt the need to constantly pinch herself. In just a short while she would be Mrs. Ryan Michael Sinclair. Who knew that hanging out in a big box store could lead to so much happiness.

She knew that she could have never dreamed up a man like Ryan. He wasn't perfect, but he was as close as she ever imagined a man could be. Who needed perfection when they had enough love, passion and devotion to last a life time. 

Dani was sitting in front of the vanity mirror in the bathroom having her hair done. Junior was being a very good boy; she'd only had a tiny bout of morning sickness. As a matter of fact, all things considered, she was having a relatively easy pregnancy. 

As she sat, Gina, a neighbor and friend from her condo complex, was pinning up her hair. Dani sat in a long satin dressing gown. With her make up having been impeccably applied by Crystal, she felt like a princess. 

Suddenly, she became a little emotional thinking of all she had and how much more there was to come. She placed her hand on her stomach where their baby grew and in her mind she heard herself whisper his name. Christopher. Christopher Ryan Sinclair. 

Coming out of her thoughts, Dani heard, Gina say, "Crystal did a perfect job with your make up, just the right amount. You look very pretty and I know you're happy. I hope married life is all that you want it to be; congratulations again."

"Thanks, Gina. I'm so happy, I just can't describe how much," Dani said. 

Gina nodded and smoothed the hair at the side of Dani's head.

"All done, what do you think?"

"It's wonderful, you do such good work," Dani commended her. 

"Thanks, you were easy. You knew exactly what you wanted and the style suits you." 

Dani was about to respond, when Ryan walked in.

"Hey, you're not supposed to see me before the wedding," Dani chided as Gina escaped the impeding backlash of the groom violating the wedding tradition. 

Leaning over her, Ryan kissed her shoulder and said, "I haven't seen you in two days, I couldn't wait another second." 

He pulled Dani to her feet and gathered her in his arms and stated, "Besides, my son misses me." 

"Uh, huh. Next you'll tell me that he talks to you too."

"How did you know?" he asked mischievously. 

He held her close and said seriously, "I love you sweetheart and I really couldn't wait. I missed you so much. Staying over at Micah's while the preparations were going on sucked. I didn't even have a bachelor party to make up for it."

"Ha!" Dani retorted, "You didn't want one."

"Yeah, there was that," Ryan agreed. "But you're missing the point; I missed you. I would lie awake in bed thinking of all the things we've shared. I look forward to a great life with you and the special gift of this baby and the others to come. I want to fill our home with love and laughter, just like you filled my life." 

He kissed her softly on her perfect lips as he slid his hands down to squeeze that equally perfect ass. Breaking the kiss, he pulled back and said, "I can barely wait for the honeymoon, don't plan on sleeping a lot."

"Hmmm," Dani sighed.

"I've felt like I've been on a honeymoon since we first uh, consummated our love, although we've been making love since the first time you kissed me in the theater parking lot. Damn, that was hot."

"Yeah, I had the sore dick to prove it," Ryan said with a wicked grin. 

"I had never been so aroused just from kissing a guy," Dani revealed. 

"But you're not just any guy," she teased. "You're my big, hot, sexy, luscious man." 

"Luscious?" he questioned, his green eyes sparkling.

"Yep, luscious. I could drown in your hotness," she vowed.

"Damn!" Ryan said feeling his body respond to her words.

"I gotta go, baby, before I need to change my briefs. Walking down the aisle with a wet spot and a hard on is not an option," he said ruefully. 

He kissed Dani quickly leaving her to finish dressing. 

Watching him as he left, Dani thought, "That is one fine ass man." 

*                      

Finally, the bridal party was ready. As they came out into the living area Dani said a silent prayer for her union with Ryan and their baby. 

Everyone took their positions. The bridesmaids were Charlotte, Jessica, Haley, Trina and Monica. Crystal was the Maid of Honor. The flower girl was Charlotte's daughter, Beatrice; the ring bearer, her son, Jared. 

A long dark blue runner led up to the gazebo. On the way there were the beautiful attractions of the garden. The guests were seated on either side of the wedding party. When the music started, they stood for the procession as they walked slowly down toward the gazebo. 

Every eye was on Dani, but she only had eyes for the tall green eyed man standing at the entrance to the gazebo. Damn if he didn't look especially sexy in his Boss three-piece tux. And that sexy grinned was doing nothing to settle the butterflies in her stomach. She thought men were suppose to be nervous at weddings, especially their own, but apparently no one told Ryan. 

As Dani drew to the end of the rows, she paused and smiled at her father who'd walked down the aisle with her. He smiled back and said to her, "Your mom and I are very happy for you, baby."

Choking back tears, Dani said, "Thanks, Dad. I've never been happier in my life."

They then walked up the steps of the gazebo.   Ryan took her hand in his and with that the ceremony commenced:

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of God and the gathered assembly of family and friends to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony."

Her father squeezed her hand as the minister said, "Who gives this woman in marriage." 

Davis responded, "Her mother and I do." Nodding to Ryan, he step down and went to take his seat next to his wife. 

And at the end,

"As we are all witnesses to your special day, I now pronounce that you are husband and wife, and we shall honor you as such from this day forward."

Then looking to Ryan, the minister said, "You may kiss your bride."

Taking Dani in his arms, Ryan leaned down and softly caressed her lips with his. Upon hearing her moan, he increased the pressure and gave her a long deep kiss, holding her tightly.

The kiss might well have gone on and on if not for the minister's "Ahem!" and nervous chuckle. 

Breaking the kiss, Ryan looked at him and arched his eyebrow. The minister turned a slight shade of pink and called to the crowd to congratulate the happy couple as he stepped out of the gazebo and walked toward Ryan's parents who were old friends. 

*                      

Ryan and Dani took to the floor at the reception and moved easily around the room, swaying to the song, Dance Me To The End of Love by Leonard Cohen. When Ryan whispered one line in her ear, Dance me to the children asking to be born, Dani's breath caught in her throat at the emotions it evoked. "He's going to be a great father," she thought. Looking up into his beautiful eyes, she saw his love on full display and her heart melted all over again. 

"How does it feel to be Mrs. Sinclair?" Ryan asked.

"It feels absolutely wonderful, Ryan," Dani said. "It's everything I could have ever wanted. It's been almost a year and I have more than I ever thought I'd have in a lifetime."

"Me too, baby. The last thing I was looking for in Lowes was a woman. It didn't take long for me to know you were the one. You'll always be the one. Now, I have a bonus, our baby," Ryan whispered bending to kiss her.

"Ummm, I love our guests, but I'm wondering when they will be gone," Dani said. 

"Not soon enough," Ryan replied.

So began a night of dancing, mingling with their guests and basking in the joy of being man and wife. 

*                      

As the night wore on, Dani decided it was time to change into her traveling clothes. She'd chosen a simple sleeveless short baby blue dress with a darker shade of blue low heels. She had no idea where they were going for the honeymoon, but she wanted to be comfortable getting there. The only thing Ryan told her was that they had a flight at 10 p.m. Their bags were packed and already in the limo. 

After whispering a word to Ryan, Dani dragged Crystal along to keep her company as she changed clothes. 

"Mr. Fix It has really been a surprise, Dani," Crystal said. "I wouldn't have imagined when you told me you'd met him in Lowes that this day would be in your future. I'm so happy for both of you and I get a niece or nephew too." 

"When are you going to stop calling him Mr. Fix It," Dani asked with a smile. 

"Hmmm, I don't know," Crystal said. "I think he likes it. At least he's never growl at me when I use it. Besides, it fits. He fixed you." 

"Ha! There was absolutely nothing wrong with me," Dani retorted, but not really taking offense.

"Well, you were a bit naive in the sex department," Crystal reminded her.  

"Not naive. I knew what it was and how all the parts worked, I just hadn't done it. But I must say Ryan cured me of that pretty quickly." 

"Oh, is that right. How long did it take him to uh, apply the cure? The second date?" Crystal asked arching her eyebrow.

Turning so that Crystal could zip up her dress, Dani said, "Well, never you mind about that." 

After she finished dressing they joined the crowed. 

Dani made a stop to the stage and talked to the lead singer, Braden, while Crystal went over to their parents. Nodding, Braden waited until Dani moved back to her place next to Ryan, who had also changed into street clothes. 

Braden tapped the microphone to get everyone's attention and said, 

"Ladies and Gentlemen, for your pleasure I give you, the newly minted bride, who would like to do a dedication. Mrs. Danielle Sinclair," Braden announced. 

Every eye sought Dani out where she stood with Ryan. She whispered in his ear and said. "This is for you baby."

She walked to the stage hoping her nerves wouldn't get the better of her.

After the momentary stunned silence, the crowd erupted into applause as she approached the stage.

Dani walked up the few steps and reached for the microphone.

"I'm not one for making speeches," she said, "but I think this occasion deserves one."

Looking at Ryan, she said, 

"Ryan Sinclair, you are the very best thing that could have ever happened in my life. You are everything that I wanted in a man and all that I need in a husband. Thank you for letting me share you life and your love. This song is for you, it's called Walk With Me." 

I never believed in taking chances Or relied on a simple toss of the dice Dreams of happy ever after never made me think twice but now, you've shown me that place where dreams come true Take my hand, Walk with me and I'll walk with you

Walk with me to the place that I long to go for the sweet taste of love's ebb and flow Fill my heart to over flowing with a love so true Walk with me my love and I'll walk with you Walk with me, my love And I'll walk with you

I could never see love in black or white I needed all the beautiful shades of gray the changing tides of every moment that says our love is here to stay Take me to that place where we'll dance to the end of time Surrender now and forever to love sublime

Walk with me to the place that I long to go for the sweetest taste of love's ebb and flow Take me where I want to go a place where love feels brand new Walk with me and I'll walk with you Walk with me, my love Walk with me and I'll walk with you I'll always walk with you

When the song ended, the crowd roared with whistles and applause.

Ryan was stunned, absolutely stunned. He knew that Dani could sing, she'd taken lessons as a kid and she sang all the time around the house, but he had never heard her put her heart and soul into a song like that. If she thought she was blessed by having him in her life, he was doubly blessed. In one lovely woman was his entire world.

Before Dani stepped off the platform, Ryan was moving deliberately towards her. By the time she reached the bottom he was there to sweep her up in his arms for a long deep soulful kiss. 

The crowd burst into whistles and cheers.

"That was beautiful, sweetheart," he said setting her back on her feet.

"You are and will always be my great love and joy." 

"I'm glad you liked the song," Dani said, "I worked on it with the band last Saturday. It was hard trying to keep it from you, but I got Micah to distract you a bit." 

Kissing her again, Ryan said, "You're sneaky, but I love you; thank you, baby." 

After checking his watch he said, "We had better get going; our flight is in an hour and fifteen minutes." 




Ryan Ch. 10



Taking Dani's hand he led her back up to the stage and made his announcement. 

"I want to thank everyone for sharing our special day. It's been our great pleasure to know that we have the love and support of our family and friends. There is a lot ahead for Dani and I, but we know with all the love that's in this room, we will overcome any obstacles that may arise. Again, thank you all." 

Ryan had to pause because of the thunderous applause. But when it died down, he said, "Now we must be leaving for the all important honeymoon. I know all of you understand." 

That announcement ended with a long eruption of whistles and catcalls. 

Without further comment, Ryan led Dani straight to the limo, only smiling and giving brief nods to the well wishers as they passed through the crowded room. 

With the family taking care of supervising the clean up and securing the house, the happy couple were driven to the airport by a hired driver. In the back seat of the car Dani and Ryan whispered words of love, hope and fidelity; secure in their future and their love for one another.



Ryan Ch. 11



It wasn't until their flight was called that Dani found out where they were going. They were spending their honeymoon at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel in Hawaii; fourteen glorious days of fun in the sun. She always had the dream of someday going to Hawaii, but now it seemed like a dream within a dream. 

The Mauna Lani had every imaginable luxury amenity, but she wondered if she'd be able to take advantage of any of them. She smiled to herself thinking she'd be lucky to get out of the room, but she didn't see that as a cause to complain. 

Dani suddenly felt tired and placed her head on Ryan's shoulder. Although she was having a relatively easy pregnancy, she sometimes felt drained. With a twelve hour flight ahead she decided to get some rest. She grunted as she tried to find a comfortable position. 

"You ok, babe?" Ryan asked.

"Yes, I'm fine. I'm just going to try to sleep." 

"All right," Ryan said placing his arm around her shoulders. 

* 

There was one stop over in California before they landed at Honolulu International Airport. It was almost twelve noon when they checked into their room and were able to truly relax. As beautiful as the room was, Dani was too tired to appreciate it. Sleeping on a plane wasn't like sleeping in her own cozy bed and she'd awaken a few times during the flight. 

Ryan wasn't a novice when it came to long flights, but they weren't the norm and he wasn't use to being in a confined space. He was a bit weary, not as tired as Dani, but he figure they both could benefit from a nap. With that in mind, the first thing the newly married couple did on their honeymoon was undress, snuggle under the covers and fall asleep. Waking up hours later, Dani found herself half draped over Ryan. He was still asleep, almost purring like a big cat. She liked hearing him breath, it was very comforting, especially now that she was pregnant. She didn't think she could feel closer to him, but the baby had deepened their bond.

She kissed his neck, right over his Adam's apple; small little teasing kisses. Running her hand over his chest and down his hip, she marveled at how hard and strong he was. She wished he would turn over to his side so that she could caress his perfectly taut buttocks. The man had an ass that could make a grown woman cry. Still, what she could touch was making her tingle with desire. He looked so peaceful that she loathed waking him up. Then she felt the stirring of his penis and knew he was already awake.

"Hello, husband," she said with a smile in her voice.

"Hi, wife," he returned, his hand stroking the luscious mounds of her awesome butt. 

"I haven't had a wedding night," Dani said, "we spent it on a plane. Not exactly romantic, but I think you can make up for it. What do you say?"

"I say, let's get started," Ryan growled flipping her over onto her back. 

"First, I need to say hello to somebody else."

Sliding down the bed and between her legs, he held his weight on his forearms while he kissed her belly.

"Hi, son," he said laying the side of his face against her.

"I just wanted to let you know how much I love you. I'm going to be the best Dad a kid could have. We'll play ball of course, all kinds of ball. I'll teach you how to fish too. Oh, and I'll teach you all about women. They can be contrary, you know."

The last part was said with a chuckle.

"Oh, no you don't," Dani protested. 

Looking up at her, Ryan responded, "I'm just looking out for him. Some woman might try to snare him like you did me. He needs to watch out for stuff like that." 

"I snared you?!" Dani gaped as her jaw dropped. 

"You need to get yourself to a doctor ASAP Ryan; you seem to be suffering from memory loss. I hope there's a cure and that it's not hereditary," she quipped. 

"I don't need a cure, baby. I have everything that I need right here, you and our baby," He averred then kissed her belly again. "Now that I've had my talk with my son, it's time to take care of his mommy." 

He sat up against the headboard and urged Dani to straddle his lap, his cock rock hard.

His big hand reached under her hair at the nape to gently coax her toward him for a long, sweet kiss. He groaned against her lips and eased his tongue between the soft seam. Dani stroked his chest as she gave entrance into the warm moist recesses of her mouth and rocked her mons against his erection. 

Ryan's hand slid up the side of her body to caress her breasts as he urged her tongue into a duel with his. Dani's breath quickened; and while his other hand slid down to cup the round firmness of her buttocks, she stroked his long hefty cock. 

Ryan grunted as his arousal grew, his pulse raced. 

Her excitement was stirring the core of her being, sending sharp tentacles of heat through her sensitive vaginal walls. The rocking of her hips brought her pussy in contract with Ryan's ball sac, stroking it as she moved, her juices providing sweet delicious lubrication. 

Their mouths devoured each other for long, aching minutes. He was desperate for release, but didn't want to stop the pleasure of his oral assault. Dani was just as conflicted. She could feel the stinging press for completion, her desire for release pushing forward. Dragging her lips away from his, he moaned at the loss. 

She gulped for breath, trying to reign in her spiraling emotions. Ryan wasn't even in her yet. She didn't want their first time as husband and wife to end so quickly, but she knew that she couldn't hold off her orgasm much longer. 

Ryan needed release, he needed to pour out the essence of his love into his wife, his forever woman, but there was something he wanted to tell her first. Easing Dani onto her back, he knelt between her thighs stroking them as he sought to calm her for a little while longer. Looking down at her, he smiled. 

"I wasn't a virgin when we met," Ryan said, "but despite that fact, I can't help feeling this enormous pleasure knowing that I was your first. It's not something I expected or that would have mattered, but I am grateful for this wonderful gift you've given me. The fact that no other man has had this with you humbles me. You will always be mine and I will always be yours."

Dani opened her mouth to say something, but when Ryan caressed the inside of her thigh close to her woman's pleasure, her body shuddered. She was so close that she was unable to form a coherent thought, let alone words. She closed her eyes against the stinging desire as he stroked upward finding the source of her heat, then sliding a finger into the welcoming center of her body.

Gently he coaxed groans and sighs from her sweet lips, his thick finger thrusting in and out as his own desire quickened. He added another finger as he stimulated the hard nub that was her clitoris, drawing circles with his thumb. 

Dani was nearing climax, her fingers pulling and squeezing her sensitive nipples as her body bowed and she whimpered under the scorching fire of Ryan's sensual touch. Just when she felt the flames taking hold, Ryan removed his fingers, gripped the base of his magnificent cock and slid slowly into her arching body, straight to the balls. Then he set up a pace of long, smooth strokes.

Seconds later, Dani screamed as her climax ripped through the walls of her pussy and spread to her entire body. She didn't know how long, she just screamed as the pleasure consumed her sending her into a frenzy of jerking movements. Over and over she cried out as she tripped into the dazzling white light of glorious surrender.

Ryan felt her pussy spasm around his expanding cock facilitating his own climb to orgasm. Seeking release, his long strokes became choppy and rapid, ramming into the hot furnace of her womanhood in rapid fire agitation, his balls drawing up until with a long drawn out grunt of rutting pleasure, he held her hips and spewed spurt after spurt of thick white cream into her churning pussy. 

After a very long while, he came back down to earth, more peaceful than he had ever been at any other time in his life. Dani hummed, the remnants of her climax still fogging her brain. Careful not to crush her, Ryan rolled over onto his back taking her with him. 

He stroked her back as she hummed in pleasure, gradually shifting his hand to her firm buttocks. With that move, Dani's hum turned to a sigh. As far as she was concerned his hands held magical powers, powers to which she has been the sole beneficiary from the moment they met. 

After she lost the blush of afterglow, she became aware of how tired she was becoming again. She knew that it was likely the pregnancy, but this time there was the added stress of having been on a long fight. Unable to keep her eyes open, she drifted off to sleep again. 

* 

It was a couple of hours before Ryan woke Dani for a late dinner. While she slept, he'd stayed awake, holding her and thinking about the changes that would come as a result of having a child. Good changes. 

Earlier, not wanting to wake her, he'd eased from under her to unpack their bags. They would be there two weeks, so there was no sense in living out of suitcases. When he got to Dani's bag, he found something that got his attention. That something brought a smile to his face and his body tensed at the memory. He decided that he might as well give her a surprise when she woke up. 

Before calling down to the restaurant to order dinner, Ryan showered and dressed. Thirty minutes later, dinner was delivered and he rousted Dani. Rolling her over from her side to her back, he shook her shoulder and said, "Man down on Aisle fifteen. Man down on aisle fifteen." 

Dani slowly came awake to the sight of Ryan in his military fatigues. He looked just the same as he had the day she met him. Obviously he'd unpacked and found what was supposed to be her surprise for him. 

Grinning, he said, "Dinner first, then you can have your wicked way with me." 

Kicking the covers off she replied, "Yeah, that's what I intended. I need to eat to make sure I have sufficient energy, but right now I need to go to the bathroom and take a quick shower." 

Ryan helped her up and stayed in the bathroom with her while she showered. 

When they returned to the living room, Dani sniffed the air and said, "Something smells very good. What did you get for me?" 

"Stuffed pork chop," Ryan replied, "is that ok?

"Wonderful, you know I think pork rules." 

"I know you do, but you never know with pregnant women. I thought you might have some weird food craving by now." 

"My taste in food hasn't changed. My Mom loved cottage cheese and peanut butter mixed together when she was carrying James." 

Looking at Ryan's horrified face, she laughed. "I know gross, huh?"

"That would not be on my list of appetizing combinations," he declared as he shook his head. 

While they enjoyed their dinner, they talked about the baby. It would be a while before they actually started on the nursery, but Dani already knew what she wanted. The walls of the nursery would be painted a fresh cheery green with a Warner Brothers cartoon themed mural on one wall. The furniture would be white with bedding and curtains in a combination of periwinkle blue, yellow, white and green. The floor was a beautiful dark walnut, but a large colorful area rug would provide a comfortable play area for their child.

At three months, Dani was beginning to show some signs of her pregnancy. She could still fit into all of her clothes, but didn't think that would be the case for much longer. There was a slight curve to her belly. It wasn't enough for anyone else except Ryan to notice and he loved the small evidence of their growing baby. 

Dani was glad that they'd been able to have the wedding before she began showing. Another month and she was sure that everyone would have been able to tell that she was pregnant. Their immediate family and closest friends already knew, but her concern had been that if she were further along, everyone's focus would have been on her abdomen, rather than the beautiful ceremony. 

Now that the wedding was over, she so wanted to have a big belly. It obviously excited Ryan and frankly, she wanted the world to know that this beautiful man had gotten her pregnant. There was going to be a lot of changes to her body in the coming months, but she could barely wait to meet their little miracle. 

After dinner Dani nestled against Ryan on the sofa. She was getting aroused by the thought of making love to him in his military garb. She remembered his swagger and awesome butt as she watched him head to the checkout counter. Who knew that one chance meeting would result in marriage and a baby. Even now the thought of meeting this wonderful man in a home improvement store seemed like a fairytale.

"Damn, but he looked so hot in his military clothes that day," she thought. 

Dani knew that it wasn't the clothes that excited her as much as the man in the clothes. He always got her anxious and achy. Her husband was big and sexy and right now she wanted to jump his bone. 

She stroked his thigh and declared boldly, "I want you down on aisle fifteen."

Ryan gave her a lecherous grin, but before he could say anything she got up and pulled him to his feet. He let her, it was her show and his anticipation had been simmering since he unpacked his fatigues. Letting her take control might have been her fantasy in the beginning, but now it was his too. 

Dani reached up and pulled his face down and gave him a lingering kiss. Slowly, his arms crept around her waist and he held her as she deepened it. He picked her up and she wound her arms around his neck and her legs around his hips.

"I thought I was going to need a ladder," she teased.

"Smart ass," he groused, "you know we always fit."

He slid one of his hands over her rear and swatted it firmly. Just that one smack made her jump and groan with desire. Dani grabbed his arms, indicating she wanted down and he set her back on her feet. 

She immediately started unbuttoning his pants then quickly unzipped them. Underneath Ryan had on a pair of silky gray briefs which did absolutely nothing to hide his hardening cock. If anything, they emphasized it.

Sliding down to her knees, she pulled his pants and briefs down to the floor. Stopping there, she looked up at Ryan and winked, which drew a growl from him. Taking his cock in her small hands she stroked it, the ridge of the big vein on the underside becoming more pronounced. 

She held his erection down from his belly and kissed the head, smiling as a groan escaped from his sexy lips. Opening her mouth, she slid the big head partially in and just held it there while her tongue teased the long slit, tasting his arousal. 

As Dani played she felt a spurt of pre-cum, which she swallowed enjoying the tangy flavor. Opening her mouth wider, she took in the entire mushroom top, sucking as her fingers caressed up and down the shaft. Ryan threw his head back and grasped her head, his hands tightening in her hair as he pushed his aching pole farther into her mouth. He grunted as the head met the back of her throat, filling the opening as she swallowed and then pulled back to breathe in deeply. 

Dani started a slow bobbing motion as she held her lips in a tight ring around his cock, massaging it while her tongue licked and stroked. Ryan aided her efforts with a slow backward and forward thrust of his hips, setting the rhythm.

Then she turned the tables on him by picking up the pace and quickly taking him to the back of throat again and again before pulling off until only the head remain inside her mouth. Thoroughly she worked his cock, nursing it like a hungry baby on a teat. His breaths were rasping as his climax approached and he tried to regain control.

Just as his body stiffened, Dani slowed her strokes to a crawl; he growled and pulled at her hair, his need urgent. The sharp sting to her scalp showed more eloquently than words just how close he was to release. 

Acquiescing to his will, Dani relinquished control once more as he stroked his cock into her warm orifice over and over. Racing toward orgasm, he thrust his cock into her mouth faster and faster, losing his restraint as his pleasure shot into the stratosphere.

Ryan groaned loudly as his back stiffened and he felt the familiar tightening of his balls. Within seconds his cum shot thorough his pulsing shaft and squirted out of the long slit in warm jets as Dani struggled to take it all in.

Allowing her to pull back, he continued to shoot cum into her mouth as she swallowed frantically. Wanting more of his essence, she sucked in her cheeks and move her firm lips back and forth on his penis, stroking the first few inches. Ryan, in the throes of his orgasm, heaved and growled his pleasure at the delicious glide of her beautiful mouth. 

When the spurting stop, Dani sucked and licked his cock one last time. After his breathing slowed, he helped her back onto her feet and kissed her soundly, tasting the remnants of his ejaculate. 

"Ummm," Dani groaned.

Chuckling, he said, "I think that would have gotten us banned from Lowes for life."

"Yes," She murmured, "but it might have been worth it. 

"Now, let's see about getting you naked."

"What about you," Ryan asked as he stepped out of his pants.

"I've only got on a wrapper," Dani asserted.

"Still isn't naked," Ryan pointed out.

"Later," She promised helping him take off his clothing. 

"Right now, I want to just lay in bed and play with all your uh, toys. You aren't all the way down on aisle fifteen yet, but you soon will be."

"I hope you'll be gentle with me," Ryan teased. 

"Not a chance," Dani vowed with a saucy wink and led him to the bedroom. 

*

The rest of their Honeymoon was spent in a sensual haze. They never got tired of the many ways they could please each other, but Ryan was careful to make sure Dani got enough rest. Towards the end of their honeymoon, she took a nap every afternoon. She was sensible enough to know that she needed it. 

They got down to the beach a couple of times. The weather was perfect, around 85 degrees, the water the prettiest shades of blue Dani had ever seen. This place was paradise to many people, but she and Ryan knew that the only thing they needed for paradise was to be together. 

They did get a chance to spend time on the beach and to enjoy a couple of the local sites. On one of the rare evenings that they had dinner in the hotel's restaurant, they met another couple who were also on their honeymoon. Jeffrey and Lisa Sloane were from Chicago and already had a two year old son. The couple was happy to share with them the perils and joys of being new parents. 

A couple of days later it was time to pack up and head home. The trip back seemed a lot faster to Dani since she slept more than she had on the trip out. Touching down at Tampa International Airport, she realized she was glad to be home. She was happy anywhere she was with Ryan, but home was definitely her favorite place. 

* 

With Dani on leave from work, the days rolled by until Ryan's birthday was right around the corner. He told the family and Dani that he didn't want a party. Things had been hectic the past few months and he just wanted to relax at home and have dinner with just the immediate family and significant others. Everyone was in agreement and the dinner was set for the night of Ryan's birthday, March thirty first. 

In the meantime, he went with Dani to her gynecology apportionment. When they got there, he took a seat while she signed in. After doing so, she sat next to him and surveyed the room. There were five other ladies there in various stages of pregnancy, some with little ones and what she assumed were their partners. Dani smiled thinking of the prospect of having a few little ones of her own.

Ten minutes later her name was called and she was led to the examination room with Ryan in tow. They were going to get to see the baby today. She wasn't sure if she wanted to know the sex. She was conflicted because she wanted to know everything about their child.




Ryan Ch. 11



After helping Dani onto the examining table, Ryan took a seat in a nearby chair, more anxious than he wanted to admit. He'd prayed that there wouldn't be any complications and so far things were going well, but they had a long way to go. 

Dr. Grant, who had delivered Haley's son, pushed Dani's blouse up and assisted her with lowering her slacks, revealing her gently rounded belly. She explained the procedure to both of them before applying the ultrasound gel. Afterward, she placed the transducer on Dani's lower abdomen and moved it around. The doctor explained to them how the transducer worked by allowing sound waves to travel through the body and bounce off the fetus thereby creating a picture.

Dani was smiling at Ryan when the doctor said, "Oh, my!"

"What?!" she and Ryan exclaimed in unison.

Pointing to the screen around, the doctor said, "See this...... and..... this?"

They both nodded.

"Twins. Congratulations," she said looking at the stunned couple.

Dani felt the prick of tears and knew any moment now she would be a weeping mess, but she didn't care. Ryan got up and put his arm around her as they watched the screen.

Then Ryan said, "Oh, my God, baby. We're going to have twins. Twins!"

Dani was crying softly with joy. She didn't know that she could be happier, but having two babies was much, much more than she would have ever expected. She tried valiantly to get a grip on her emotions knowing that there were questions she needed answered. 

Finally, sniffling she said, "I had an ultrasound when I was in the hospital at six weeks; they didn't say anything about twins."

"I read your records from the hospital," Dr. Grant revealed.

"They did all the proper tests, but only saw one baby via the ultrasound, which is understandable that early in a pregnancy. I've had patients who weren't showing twins at 7 weeks, but suddenly at 12 weeks they were. It's all perfectly normal," she assured them.

"Can you tell the babies' sex?" Ryan asked. 

"I can't tell right now, they're not in the right position. But, as the pregnancy progresses, their positions will change. We may be able to tell a few weeks from now. Are you sure you want to know the sex?" she asked.

Dani was the first to answer. "I don't know," she said.

"I think I would like it to be a surprise then on the other hand I want to know now," She laughed through her lingering tears. 

Chuckling, Ryan said, "Don't worry doc, that's normal for her."

The doctor laughed, fully understanding the emotional nature of women and expectant mothers in particular. She completed the exam in short order and afterward assured them that the babies were healthy and growing at the expected pace. 

Congratulating them again, the doctor left Ryan and Dani alone to absorb the news. 

"Twins," Dani whispered as Ryan helped her sit up. 

Then she realized she'd forgotten to ask Ryan what he wanted. 

"Would you like to know the sex of the babies as soon as we can?

"I'm perfectly willing to wait until they're born, if that's what you want," he said, "I'm just happy knowing they're healthy. 

"Me too." 

By the way," Dani said, "Do you have any twins in your family? I don't have any on my side of the family; at least I've never heard that we did. I'll ask Mom to be sure." 

"As a matter of fact," Ryan said, "my paternal great-grandfather was a twin. I don't know of any others.''

So this is on you," she charged, grinning as he helped her off of the examining table.

"You're welcome, baby," Ryan said returning her grin. 

* 

That night Dani called to tell Crystal her news.

"Damn, Dani, when you do something, you really do it up right," she exclaimed.

"You do know that Mom and Dad are going to lose their minds. Don't be surprised if they want to move back to Tampa to be near the grand kids."

"Oh, no!" Dani screeched.

"I love them, you know I do, but they would drive me crazy. They'd be here everyday and Mom would say that everything I'm doing is wrong."

"Yep," Crystal agreed. 

"They've wanted grand kids for a long time, now they'll have two of them to spoil rotten."

Thinking that over, Dani said, "It might not be a bad idea to have them here for a while. I'll need a lot of help in the beginning, but I don't want anyone taking over. I'll just have to find a way to let Mom know that without her being offended. I really don't think she'll move back here, though. She and dad are having a great time in Jacksonville."

"You can say that again," Crystal interjected. "Their social life is busier than mine."

"Exactly," Dani said.

"There would be the same issue of them missing their friends that they had when they lived in Tampa before. Besides, the drive isn't long and they could see the twins any time. Yep, that's it. I've convinced myself that they won't move back here," she laughed.

"I see your logic on that," Crystal declared, "but I put nothing past our parents." 

"I wouldn't either," Dani agreed. 

"Oh, by the way, Crystal said, "I was going to call you anyway with some news of my own. I was so stunned by your good news, I almost forgot about mine."

"What, what?!" Dani urged.

"Isaac and I are getting married!" Crystal squealed. Dani marveled that her take it as it comes sister actually squealed. 

"Oh my God, Crystal, how could you forget that? I'm so happy for you. When, where? How do Isaac's girls feel about it?" Have you told Mom and Dad?" Dani rambled without giving her sister a chance to answer. 

"Hold it! Hold it!" Crystal laughed. 

"First of all, Isaac's girls think it's great. As for Mom and Dad, I haven't told them yet. He just asked me last night and frankly I wanted time to think about it before I said yes. I went over to his place this morning and said, yes, yes, yessssssss."

"Gee, Sis, I don't need to know about the yessssssss!" Dani said with an exaggerated groan.

"Well, it was...well... hell, never mind," Crystal said sheepishly. 

"Anyway, we haven't decided on a date, but I'd say probably some time next year. I want to be sure, Dani. I love Isaac and all, but I want us to have time to adjust to the eventuality of sharing our lives. There still are a lot of things we need to talk about. I don't want to be married more than once."

"I understand Crystal. You need to do what's best for you. Still, I'm happy that you've found someone to love too. My life would have been just the same old, same old without Ryan. I might have been happy not knowing the difference, but now that I know the difference, I wouldn't have it any other way. We're doubly blessed with the twins." 

"Tell you what," Crystal said, "why don't you call and tell Mom and Dad about the twins and I'll tell them about the engagement in a few days. It'll give them time to let your news sink in and give me time to let the thought of being Mrs. Isaac Washington sink in."

"Ok, Crystal, that sounds like a plan."

"I'll call them tonight. Oh, by the way, we're having a dinner for Ryan's birthday on the thirty first of this month, you're invited. No presents. Ryan insisted, but I've got something for him, the painting I've been working on the past few months. I finally got to finish it."

"Great! I can't wait to see it," Crystal said, "and of course I'll be there for the dinner. Is Isaac invited too? "

"Yes, of course," Dani confirmed. 

"Ok, Crystal. I have a couple of things to do before I call the parents. I'll talk to you later."

"All right, later," Crystal said. 

* The day before the birthday dinner, Zane came by the house to give Ryan and Dani some additional information on Keith Hall's case. 

Sitting outside they listened to the latest news.

"Hall's sentencing hearing will be coming up in three weeks, but you won't be required to attend Dani," he said. 

"With the charge of aggravated battery on a pregnant woman he could get up to fifteen years in prison with additional time for felony fleeing. He'll probably get a break on the felony fleeing charge because he turned himself in. However, there is something else I need to talk to you about."

Ryan felt Dani's body stiffen beside him and asked, 

"Are you all right? Zane and I can discuss this alone if you'd rather not hear it."

"No. I'm fine," she assured him. "Go on, Zane."

Zane glanced at Ryan before addressing Dani.

"Hall wants to see you Dani, to apologize."

Almost before the last words were out of his mouth, Ryan exclaimed sharply, "Hell no! He isn't getting anywhere near Dani, ever!"

"It's ok Ryan," Dani said caressing his arm." 

To Zane she said, "Tell him that I don't want to see him. I understand what drove him, but that doesn't mean I'm ready to forgive him. I could have died and along with me our babies. Life is short and I can't and won't spend it hating him, but I'm ready to put this behind me. Tell him I appreciate the decisions he's made that will allow me to do that, but there isn't anything that we need to say to each other."

Nodding, Zane said, "He didn't think you would agree to see him, but he thought it was worth a try. I've delivered the message and I'm done. Do either of you have any questions?"

"No, I'm just glad it's over." Dani said and Ryan echoed the sentiment. 

"Ok," Zane said coming to his feet, "I need to get going."

When Ryan and Dani stood, Zane said, "Congratulations again on the twins," then quickly glanced at his watch.

"Another date?" Ryan asked curiously.

"Yeah," Zane said anxious to leave before Ryan asked any more questions.

"I gather it's the same woman," Ryan said, amused at Zane's discomfort.

"Yeah," Zane said unwilling to elaborate.

Shaking his head, Ryan declared, "I sure would like to meet the woman who's made you nearly speechless, but I don't see that happening any time soon. I knew you were closed mouth, but you're almost mute now."

"Ryan, don't kid him," Dani admonished. "He's obviously smitten with this woman. Let's give him some breathing room." 

"Ok, ok, spoilsport," he growled at her. 

"Ok, you love birds, I have to go. See you later," Zane said, not sure that he liked the term smitten. 

As he headed to the door, Dani and Ryan followed. They wished him luck with his lady friend as they saw him out.

After setting the alarm, Ryan led Dani back to the living room to enjoy a leisurely night at home. * As it turned out, there would be two less guests for Ryan's birthday dinner. Isaac's father had taken ill with a bout of pneumonia and was hospitalized. He and Crystal headed to Atlanta immediately after getting the news, which was a couple of days before the dinner. 

Crystal kept in touch with Dani and informed her that Isaac's dad was recovering and would be out of the hospital in a few days. She and Isaac were going to stay long enough to get him situated with home nursing care then they would be returning to Tampa.

* 

The night of the dinner, Dani was on pins and needles anxious to see how Ryan responded to his gift. She hoped he loved the painting as much as she did. 

Dani virtually had nothing to do to prepare for the dinner since Ryan made arrangements through his usual catering service. He didn't want her slaving over a hot stove, especially in her condition. She'd tried to assure him that she was more than capable of managing dinner, but he wasn't hearing it. She gave in knowing that once he got his mind set, especially when it came to taking care of her, there was nothing to do but let him have his way. 

Since they returned from their Honeymoon she had little to do in the way of cooking or cleaning. Ryan hired a housekeeper to come in once a week and he either cooked himself or had meals delivered. A few times he'd brought home food that was already on the menu at The Big Bang. The food was actually as good as homemade. 

At four months pregnant Dani felt good, but Ryan wasn't above riding railroad on her to make sure she got enough rest. Except for mild morning sickness which really tended to occur any time of the day, she was fine. In the end she resigned herself to being pampered, not that it was hard having a gorgeous man tend to her every need. 

* 

Ryan was helping Dani put on her dress when the door bell rang. 

After zipping her up and kissing the back of her neck, he said, "I'll be right back." 

Checking his watch he noticed with a smile that his family was as punctual as ever. It was six thirty on the dot. He opened the front door and was greeted to a chorus of happy birthday. Grinning, he ushered them into the living room amid hugs and kisses.

Micah gave him a hearty slap on the back and said, "Happy Birthday old man you're now thirty four years old. Good thing you're producing kids two at a time. Maybe you'll have them all before you're too old to play with them." 

"Yeah, Yeah," Ryan groused. "Let's not forget that you're only five years younger."

"Yeah, but that's five long years, Brother," Micah came back. 

"Remember Micah, you're not even engaged yet or is there something you want to tell Mom and Dad," Ryan retorted with a sly grin.

"Don't start, Ry, they'll be on me next." Then exclaimed, "Damn, I am next." 

Ryan looked at his youngest brother who had gone over to stand by the fireplace. 

"What's wrong with Caleb," he asked Micah. 

"No clue, except it has something to do with Amber. He was quiet when he picked me up. He said Amber wasn't coming, but when I asked if anything was wrong, he said he didn't want to talk about it."

Ryan saw the look of concerned on his parents' faces, but didn't want to embarrass Caleb by questioning him in front of them. He'd let it ride for the time being, but he was going to have a talk with him soon.

Ryan excused himself and went back to check on Dani.

When he got to the bedroom, Dani was nowhere in sight. He walked to the en suite bath and she wasn't there either or in the walk-in closet. Frowning, he wondered where she could be. 

As he came out of the bedroom he heard her studio door open. Dani exited the room holding what he assumed by its shape was a picture wrapped in brown paper. As she started down the hall, she looked up and saw him. 

Smiling she said, "This is for you."

When his mouth opened to protest, she said, "I didn't buy it, I painted it. I've been working on it off and on for a few months. I hope you like it."

Taking the picture from her he said, "I'm sure I'll love it." 

Reaching up to him, she pulled his face down for a long kiss. 

"I love you, Ryan," she whispered against his lips. 

"I love you too, baby," he said, loving the softness of her body as he held her close with one arm around her waist. 

After they separated he sighed wishing they were alone. But with a deep breath he took her hand and led her to the living room. He was now eager to uncover his gift.

"What's that?" Haley inquired, indicating the package in Ryan's hand. 

Dani sat next to Ryan's mother; Ryan sat on her left and put the picture down in front of them on the table. 

Addressing the family he said, "This is a picture my lovely wife painted for me. She's been working on it for a few months and I get to see it now. I have no clue what it is since I don't go into her studio without permission," he said with a grin.

"Now?" he asked Dani.

She nodded and he started ripping off the paper like a kid at Christmas. He stared stunned as he heard oohs and ahhs from the family. 

It was a picture of him, just as he looked the first time Dani saw him. Military fatigues, complete with his work boots and aviator glass hooked into his tee shirt. It was a full length painting. His wife was an incredible artist. No one could mistake the portrait for anyone else.

"Damn," Micah said, "it looks just like you, Ryan."

"Wow," came from Haley. "I didn't know you could do that with watercolor."

"It's the method that makes the difference," Dani said. 

"The background is loose, which most people think of as traditional watercolor. But the actual figure of Ryan is tighter. The background was done mostly wet into wet, while the image itself was wet into dry. The pigment is deeper because there is less water to dilute it and it was applied to dry paper which gave it a crisper look. It took me a while to get the hang of using watercolor, but I did better than I thought I would."

"That's fantastic," Daniel said, with Helen nodding her agreement, "a really superb painting."

"It truly is beautiful. The painting, not you Ryan," Caleb smirked.

Ryan chuckled. 

He was glad that Caleb had put aside whatever was bothering him, at least for the moment. He still wanted to know what was happening with his brother and Amber. Whatever it was, he surmised that it occurred tonight. While they weren't expecting Amanda because she was working on a presentation for tomorrow, there was no clue that Amber wouldn't be coming. 

Turning his attention back to the picture, Ryan asked Dani, "Where do you want to hang it?" 

Blushing slightly she said, "I was thinking, maybe, the bedroom."

"Oh, really," he said with a knowing smile.

"Uh, huh," was all she replied avoiding Ryan's heated gaze by looking down at her hands folded in her lap. The last thing she wanted was for her news to learn about her fetish.

"Anything you two want to share with us or is that look between the two of you a secret?" Dan asked with a grin and a raised eyebrow so reminiscent of Ryan. 

"No," Ryan said in a stern voice, "there's nothing to tell," then ruined it when he grinned.

"I guess we're not going to be let in on the secret," Dan concluded shaking his head, "so let's eat." 

The dinner was a boisterous affair, as was usual when the Sinclairs got together. Ryan's family was not staid or lackluster; they enjoyed being around each other and went at everything full bore. 

Dan teased Ryan about having his hands full when the twins arrived and losing the parental battle when they learned how to divide and conquer or the first time one of them puddles up with tears because daddy said no. 

The women gave Dani advice on making a schedule and learning to sleep when the babies slept. They pretty much agreed that she was going to be tired, especially until she got her routine down. 

All the teasing was taken as it was meant, in good humor, and the advice on rearing the babies was welcomed. Dani knew that she'd be overwhelmed, but she had a good support system. She certainly intended to take advantage of every helping hand that she could get.

It was getting on in the evening when Ryan asked Caleb if he could speak to him in private. Nodding, Caleb got up and followed Ryan to the backyard. Everyone was curious, but no one said anything. 

The men were the first to restart the conversation. Dan and Micah got into a discussion about sports. Dan was still smarting over the fact that the Miami Heat beat the San Antonio Spurs and Micah was still gloating. They also talked about next season's prospects and possible coaching changes in the NBA. 

The women continued talking babies. 

Dr. Grant told Dani that with twins she could go into labor early or she might need bed rest in the later months. However it went, she knew one thing for sure, she was going to be huge in a couple of months. She'd seen plenty of pictures of women carrying twins. That was a lot to carry around, but she would endure anything for their babies.

Ryan made no secret of the fact that he loved her roundness. He kissed her belly and talked to the babies every morning and said goodnight to them. Dani sighed contentedly as the women's voices drone on. 

* 

Once they were in bed Dani asked Ryan about his talk with Caleb. 

"Is everything all right with Caleb?"

"Not really," Ryan said with a sigh. "He and Amber broke up."

Oh, no!" Dani exclaimed. "What happened?"

"Amber's job has always required a lot of time in foreign countries and even more so since she got a promotion last year. Caleb thought it would slow down at some point, but it hasn't. It's been two years and he just didn't see the end of it. He could write anywhere, but even if he went with her, they'd have little time to spend together. When he got to her place tonight, she informed him of another business trip coming up. They got into an argument and that was it."




Ryan Ch. 11



Pulling Dani closer, he rubbed her arm and continued.

"He's still in love with her, but he's known for a while that things weren't going to work out. Even when she's home, she's on the phone a lot. Caleb wants a family, maybe not right now, but in a year or two he wanted to at least be married."

Ryan took a deep breath and ran a hand through his hair in frustration. 

"She claims to love him as well, but she doesn't seem willing to make any concessions for the relationship and Caleb isn't going to make demands. He said she'd just be resentful later. So, he broke it off with her and told her why."

"That's so sad. Caleb is such a great guy," Dani said.

"Yeah, but sometimes even the good guys lose. I hate to see him hurting like that, but he had to make a tough decision. Family is important to him. Their relationship might have been different if she wasn't in this high powered job, but I don't think it would have been. She is who she is. She made her choice."

"I have no doubt that he'll find the woman that's right for him, but that's not doing him any good right now," Ryan said.

"I guess the rest of the family doesn't know. At least they didn't give any indication that they did," Dani observed.

"No, they don't. Let's leave it to Caleb to tell them when he's ready," Ryan said. 

"I agree," Dani said. "I wouldn't dream of saying anything to anyone, not even Crystal."

"He's going to start working on a new book soon; maybe that will take his mind off of Amber. He's known to be very focus when he's researching and writing a novel. I'll still make sure to check in with him regularly. It wouldn't be good for him to lock himself away from people," Ryan said. 

"No, it wouldn't," Dani concurred with a yawn.

"Sleepy?" Ryan asked.

"I think I'm more tired than sleepy. I don't seem to be able to handle late nights anymore. But the babies have been very good," she said as she rubbed her belly. 

"I've felt a little whispery flutter a couple of times, but the doctor said it will be a while before they actually kick. I bet that will be weird." 

"Yeah, that and seeing the babies reposition themselves in your womb," Ryan said. 

"Going to the Lamaze classes with you has helped me understand a lot about what happens during birth and what the woman is feeling. I knew the basics, obviously, but I want to be able to help you any way that I can to make it easier. Not freaking when I see the head coming out would be a start, I think." 

"You'll do fine." 

"We'll do fine," Ryan said.



Ryan Ch. 12



As Ryan slowly came awake he had the distinct feeling that he was being watched. Not unfamiliar with the sensation, he smiled. 

Opening his eyes leisurely, he saw the beautiful brown eyes of his wife, but now they were reflected in the faces of their four year old twins, Christopher and Gabriela. 

Seeing that he was awake, the twins said in unison, "Hi, Daddy."

"Morning, brats," Ryan said, reaching out to ruffle their hair. These two were a handful, but you couldn't find two sweeter kids on the planet, in their father's opinion. 

Gabby was a tomboy who often fooled people with her love of girly clothing. When she got older there was no doubt that her wardrobe would rival her mother's, but keeping her clean was another matter. She was a rough and tumble kind of girl who wanted to do everything her brother did. She'd gotten as many bumps and bruises as Christopher to prove it. 

Christopher was every boy; he wanted to be like his daddy. He even had his own set of camo wear. As tough a kid as he was, he was always gentle with his sister and tried to protect her. The little angel, however, sometimes made it difficult for him. But they were a team and got along well with each other and with other kids. 

Feeling Christopher pat his shoulder, Ryan gave him his attention. 

"Mommy said to see if you had woken up, but not to wake you. Are we in trouble?" he asked with a small frown. 

"No. You're not in trouble," Ryan assured him. 

Gabby crawled into the bed and kissed Ryan on the cheek. She was quickly followed by Christopher who did likewise. The kids were very loving and secure in their parents love. 

Sometimes they would knock on their parents' door when they woke up in the morning. Dani would make breakfast while the kids entertained Ryan or vice versa. 

There were changes in their lives, but they were good ones. One thing that had to be remedied right away was the sleeping arrangements for the twins. All of the guest rooms were on the far side of the house, too far away for young children. To help the situation, Dani moved her studio to one of the guest bedrooms and the large den, which was close to the master bedroom, became the twins' room. 

In the back of their minds, Ryan and Dani thought their sex life would be severely curtailed when they became parents, but thankfully, with a little planning and creativity they still enjoyed a very erotic and romantic sexual relationship. 

"Where's mommy?" Ryan asked.

"She's changing Jordan's clothes. He spit up all over," Christopher said.

"Ewww," exclaimed Gabby.

Gabriela was too refined to tolerate spit up, but she didn't mind getting grimy and squashing bugs. Ryan thought she was quite the paradox. 

Yawning he asked, "Have you guys eaten breakfast yet?"

Both twins nodded, yes. 

"Mommy said she would make you breakfast when you got up. Are you getting up now?" Gabby asked.

"Yep, I'm getting up. You can tell mommy I'm awake and I'll be out in a few minutes. Tell her I need coffee," Ryan instructed.

Both twins nodded, said "Ok, Daddy," and scrambled off the bed to deliver the message to their mother.

Ryan lay back, reflecting for a moment.

The time leading up to the birth of the twins was peaceful for the most part. They decided not to learn the sex of the babies before their birth. However, that didn't mean that the debate among the family members didn't go on for months. In the end, they were all surprised that the babies weren't both boys.

Dani was on bed rest for a month, but at thirty nine weeks, labor was induced. Ryan stayed home the entire time and conducted business from his office there. They had plenty of volunteers, but he needed to be near her to make sure she was all right. If anything happened, he didn't want to receive second hand information. 

It was a great time for both of them, filled with laughter, love and long talks. It was during those times that the reality of children hit them. They talked about their fears and expectations and the type of parents they wanted to be. 

It was a heavy responsibility, but it was one they accepted gladly. 

The only thing to mar their happiness was the sentencing of Keith Hall. Dani decided that she wanted to speak during the sentencing phase. Ryan was adamantly opposed because of her condition and on general principle, but she'd explained to him that this was something she needed to do for herself, not Keith. 

She'd told Keith that she forgave him, but had she lost the babies, she wouldn't have been there and she might not have ever been able to forgive him. He hung his head at that point. She asked the judge to take in consideration his background and personal issues. She said it wasn't an excuse for what he did, but she did feel sorry for him and what he had gone through. 

That being done, she never talked about Keith Hall again. It was in the past, one that would never be allowed to influence their future again. She was at peace now, which was the reason behind her actions. She wanted to purge herself of the bad feelings she had toward him.

Keith was sentenced to seven years in prison. If he kept out of trouble, he could possibly be out in five. He would have on going psychiatric sessions and evaluations for the duration of his sentence.

With that chapter closed in their lives, there was an abundance of good news. 

When it came time for the babies to be delivered, Ryan was in the delivery room with Dani putting to use his Lamaze training as her coach. She'd been a trooper, although Ryan felt a bit squeamish. He'd been in the military and saw horrible things, but those things weren't happening to Dani. He did manage to keep from passing out, but just barely. 

Christopher was the first to be born; Gabriela was born four minutes later. Both were healthy with Gabby weighing a little over five pounds and Christopher almost six. 

Crystal married Isaac two years after the twins were born and she was now six months pregnant.

Caleb found happiness with a woman who loved him to distraction. 

Micah and Amanda were engaged and planning their wedding.

Haley had another baby, a girl, Melinda Rose. 

Now as Ryan pulled himself out of bed, he reflected on the time he and Dani went back to the beach house. It was a wonderful two weeks and the first time they'd been away from the twins for more than a day. The kids stayed with his parents who spoiled them to no end. Their time at the beach was an especially sweet memory because it was there that Jordan was conceived. 

The twins both had light brown hair with Ryan's features and temperament. Jordan had dark brown hair with hazel eyes inherited from his grandfather, Michael. His features were a mix of Dani's and Ryan's. He was a happy baby, calm and peaceful no matter what was going on around him. 

Ryan got up and quickly took care of his morning ritual. When he got to the great room, the twins were watching cartoons and Dani was cleaning up their earlier mess with Jordan watching from his high chair. 

Walking up behind her, he slipped his arms around her waist and kissed her neck. "Morning, baby," he said breathing in the sweet scent of his woman.

Turning in his embrace, Dani wrapped hers around his neck and gave him a long thorough kiss, the loss of which made Ryan grunt when she pull back. 

"Damn!" he groaned.

Easing out of his arms, Dani promised, "Later." 

Then she asked, "What do you want for breakfast, sweetheart?"

"French toast with two scrambled eggs, bacon, orange juice and that heavenly coffee I smell brewing," Ryan answered, followed by a swat to her still luscious ass.

Gasping in pleasure, she looked Ryan in the eyes and asked, "You do know you're playing with fire, don't you?"

"Uh, huh," he replied with a crooked grin, "and I'm looking forward to the inferno." 

They'd been together more than six years and were just as crazy for each other as they'd ever been. Keeping that relationship alive with kids took work. But they were more than just parents; they were lovers who intended to always make time for the physical side of their relationship. 

Dani never went back to work. She put in her resignation and sold her condo shortly after her 25th birthday. She wanted to be a full time mother and wife. That was a great decision as far as Ryan was concerned, but he would have worked with whatever made her happy and fulfilled. She told him there was no contest; it was him and the kids. In the years since, she'd proven just how deep her love and commitment to them was. 

Hearing Jordan make a happy gurgle, Ryan took him out of the high chair, cradling him in his strong arms. When he tickled the baby's belly, he elicited a laugh from his son who waved his arms and wiggled in his embrace.

Jordan was just shy of a year old and soon would be sharing the bedroom with his siblings. For now, he was nicely ensconced with his crib set up in the large alcove in his parents' spacious room. Like the twins, blessedly, he slept all night. 

Ryan held the baby snugly and went over and sat on the sofa. The twins, lying on the floor on their bellies, looked behind and caught sight of him. They got up from the floor and joined their father on the sofa, taking up residence on either side of him. They continued to watch TV, content with just being close to him. 

Dani watched from the kitchen, her eyes filled with tears as she thought of the wonderful life she had. She still laughed whenever she thought that something as mundane as her fascination with home improvement stores led to this unexpected treasure. 

It was a treasure and a pleasure that would continue through many years as she and Ryan raised their children and hopefully enjoyed grandchildren. Life had given her more than a dream, because she'd never possessed the ability to dream on such a grand scale. 

Life had given her the world. 

As Dani watched them she remembered the promise that she and Ryan made to acknowledge their love for each other every day. They kept that promise and now they included their kids. Their children would never doubt their love no matter where the journey of life led them.

Dani sighed and said a silent prayer for the blessing that was Ryan Sinclair and the life he'd made possible for her and their family.

It was a life that would continually unfold as each of them was nurtured by this endless circle of love. 

*

*

We've made it to the end and what a ride it's been. I'd like to thank all of you for your support and encouragement. I've enjoyed writing this story and was pleased with your response. Thanks again.