3 comments/ 63524 views/ 28 favorites Cajun Spice Ch. 01 By: Phoenix74 Part one is a little long because I'm trying to set up the story for the rest of the series. Thanks for your patience. Enjoy. * April muttered an oath under her breath as she pushed through the huge, glass double doors of Dupree Enterprises. Her plane arrived in New Orleans two hours late and, therefore, left her no time to change clothes, let alone fine a hotel. April let out a small groan at the thought of meeting her new client in a few minutes, dressed in jeans, her beloved cowboy boots and a short-sleeved Henley. Oh well, I'm here to find an embezzler, not land a cushy job with a corner office, she thought. She rushed up to the information desk in the lobby, suitcase in tow. "Where can I find John Dupree's office, please?" April inquired of the security guard. "Top floor," he offered, not once looking up. Figures, April thought, heading for the large bank of elevators in the back of the lobby. She pressed the up button, her foot tapping nervously as she waited for the doors to open. Rushing in as the heavy metal doors yawned open, she barreled into a young woman about to step out. Looking up, April felt the apology die on the tip of her tongue. She suddenly found herself staring into the greenest eyes she'd ever seen, effectively frozen half way between the elevator doors. "Excuse you, cher," said the red head, the sugary southern accent taking some of the sting out of the reprimand. April came crashing back to reality as the doors banged into her back. "Sorry. Late for a meeting." "Typical Yank," came the sarcastic reply, rolling her eyes and sauntering out of the elevator and down towards the lobby. April could only stare after the woman, drinking in the view of long legs, perfectly round ass and red, curly tresses spilling down her back. Just then the elevator doors snapped shut, cutting off her view of the southern beauty. April let out a long sigh and marveled at the feeling of her heart vibrating inside her rib cage. All thoughts of Red quickly vanished, though, as the doors reopened on the top floor. April found herself directly across the hall from her client's office. Striding through the door, she quickly approached the secretary's desk off to her left. "Hi. I'm April Shaughnessy from Phoenix Investigations. I have a one o'clock appointment with Mr. Dupree." "Afternoon cher," replied the blond behind the desk. "Mr. and Ms. Dupree are expecting you. Follow me please." April followed the secretary through the door and into a rather large office with an expansive view of the New Orleans skyline. Immediately in front of the windows stood a large, mahogany desk. As April approached, the man behind it stood and offered his hand. "Ms. Shaughnessy, I presume," inquired the older gentleman. He stood about six feet tall, his thick, black hair beginning to turn silver around the temples. April guessed Dupree was in his fifties, as she accepted his handshake. "Yes, Mr. Dupree. It's a pleasure to meet you." "And I you. You came highly recommended and I appreciate you rushing down here on such short notice. I'd like to introduce you to my niece, Jade," as he turned to indicate the raven-haired beauty who had been perched on the corner of his desk when April walked in. The women stood, turning to offer her hand in greeting. She stood about 5'8", giving her a couple inches of advantage over April's 5'6" frame. Jade's tailored suit hinted at the graceful curves of her body. Her easy smile spreading to the crystal blue eyes that were revealed as she brushed her hair away from her face. With all this eye candy, I should consider moving south, April thought. Visions of Red from the elevator flashing back as she took in the sexy figure of Dupree's niece, accepting Jade's handshake. "I understand you suspect an employee of embezzling from Dupree Enterprises, is that correct?" "Yes. My other niece, Jasmine, just returned from college with her master's degree and is preparing to take over the accounting department. She's been reviewing the books, getting familiar with the company, and noticed some discrepancies. She's not finished yet but, as far as we can tell, whoever it is has already siphed about $500,000.00 spread over several different departments." "It seems like you're already on the trail of your culprit. Why then, Mr. Dupree, did you feel the need to hire a private investigator?" "Are you familiar with the office rumor mill?" asked Jade with a small smile. "Isn't everyone?" April replied, her eyes locking with Jade's for just a few extra seconds. "Well, it appears that said rumor mill has caught on to the fact that we've discovered the embezzling. My uncle, Jasmine and myself have begun receiving threats," replied Jade, ending on a sigh. Dupree now spoke, "We were hoping you could assist Jasmine with her investigation and assist us with security. I raised Jasmine and Jade since they were little girls. They're my daughters, as much as they are my nieces, and I'm very concerned for their safety. They each received a threatening email recently. I'm hiring you to insure that nothing happens to them while they track down whoever it is skimming from this company." Just then the office door burst opened. "Uncle John, we do not need some knuckle dragging, too stupid to stay on the force, ex-copy turned PI stomping around the company while Jade and I find out who's skimming. How dare you drag some PI in here behind my back," ranted the vaguely familiar newcomer. At the sound of the door, April had pivoted around, only to find herself face to face with Red. As the woman's tirade came to an end, their eyes locked. April could feel a surge of electricity spike between them as the fiery beauty glared at her. "You," she spat. "I'm guessing you're Jasmine Dupree." "Yes I am. And who, exactly, are you?" Jade demanded, eyeing April top to bottom, giving a disapproving look to the casual clothing. April stepped towards Jasmine, hand extended. "April Shaughnessy. Knuckle dragging PI. For the record, I've never been a cop. Too many rules," April replied with a smirk, which quickly spread into a wicked grin as she heard Jade's snort of laughter behind her. "Oh great, a cowboy with bad manners. In case you haven't noticed, cher, you're in New Orleans, not Texas," Jasmine looking pointedly at April's worn, black leather cowboy boots. "Oh these," April said looking down at her boots with a girlish smile. Then, raising her head, locking eyes with the petulant red head, April took a small step closer. With her grin still in place, she baited the little brat, "Well, these are standard PI issue. You know, sometimes security just involves giving someone a good kick in the pants." At this remark, Jasmine's emerald eyes widen, a look of pure shock spreading across her face, rushing to keep up with the blush that was turning her cheeks the same striking shade of red as her hair. Unable to contain herself, Jade burst into laughter, enjoying the sparing match between her baby sister and the PI. Jade eyed the lean, brown haired woman, admiring the way April stood almost toe to toe with her sister, not the least bit intimidated. Jade had the passing thought that life was about to get a bit interesting. Jasmine was sputtering with indignation, yet unable to come up with a quick reply. Satisfied that she had taken the wind out of her sails, April turned back towards Dupree and Jade. "I'll need to know what type of security precautions you already have in place. I'll also need to see copies of the threats each of you have received and you'll need to brief me on where you're at with your internal investigation into the missing money. Where would you like to start?" Dupree turned towards Jade, "Could you please get copies of the letters and emails. Also, have Debbie bring us copies of the building blue prints and security procedures. Jasmine, why don't you call out for some lunch. None of us have eaten yet and I'm sure Ms. Shaughnessy didn't get much in the way of lunch on her flight." With that, Dupree walked toward the conference table, motioning April to join him. Jade flashed April a quick grin as she grabbed Jasmine's arm, dragging her sister out of the office with her. April stood, enjoying her view of the two departing women, smirking at the memory of Jasmine's shocked face. Taking a seat, she had the fleeting thought that New Orleans's women seem to be as spicy as its famous jambalaya. ############### Several hours later, April stood on a street corner in the heart of the French Quarter, eyeing a small neighborhood bar called Mama's. Dupree had mentioned that the owner was a friend of the family and would be happy to rent April the apartment above the bar, since she hadn't had time to book a hotel room in her rush to get to New Orleans. Crossing the street, April pushed through the old saloon style doors. It was early evening, but the small bar was already starting to fill up. She stepped out of the way of an older man who came up behind her carrying a guitar case, the band for the evening already starting to file in. Spotting the bar on the far left, April headed over, mentally crossing her fingers in the hopes that the rent wouldn't wreck havoc on her business's take for the month. Nearing the bar, a large black woman stepped out from the kitchen, yelling to the old man with the guitar. "About time you showed up Otis. How am I supposed to run a blues joint with no blues?" The old man just waved her off, still heading for the stage. Just then, the woman turned toward April, spotting her standing hesitantly at the end of the bar. "What you drinkin' cher?" "Nothing now. John Dupree sent me down. Said you might have an apartment to rent me, short term." "You that PI from out east? John called just a little while ago, told me you might stop in." "Yeah, that's me. Is the apartment available?" "Sure thing cher. Just let me get the keys and I'll meet you out front. Door to the apartment is around the side." April headed back out. Looking around the corner she saw a small, dead end cobblestone alley and a set of steps about half way down. At the far end of the alley stood a small fountain, flowers planted along the fence at the U-shaped end of the alley. Well that's not so bad, she thought. God knows I've been in worse places. Just then she heard the swoosh of the saloon doors and turned to see the owner bustling towards her, the woman's large frame barely clearing the doorway. "I'm Mama Dubois. Don't worry, I run a clean joint. Folks get a little rowdy from time to time, but this isn't some wild bar like what people hear stories about. You'll sleep just find up there and no one will bother you. Follow me, hon., and I'll show you the place. If you like it, I'll let you have it for $100 a week, since you're a friend of the Dupree's and all." April felt the grin spread across her face. This older woman with the booming voice seemed like good people and $100 a week was one hell of a deal. She followed the woman down the alley, hoping the apartment wasn't a hole in the wall. Looking up, she spotted a little balcony with a wrought iron railing and a few flower boxes filled with geraniums hanging over the sides. So far so good. Mama hauled herself up the short flight of steps and opened the apartment door. She stepped inside and held the door open, waiting for April to follow her inside. Stepping in, April was shocked to find a darling little apartment. There was a small kitchen area off to the right, with a wooden breakfast nook in the far corner beside a small window. The hallway they stood in went straight back and she could see the bathroom through the open door. Off to her right was one large room, already furnished. A four-post canopy bed stood, the headboard pushed against the far wall so the bed faced towards the alley. A matching dresser stood beside it in matching cherry wood. In front of the bed, closer to the balcony, was a comfy looking couch with a small coffee table in front of it. The couch faced the glass French doors, which opened out onto the small balcony she had seen from the street. April walked over to the French doors, pushing them open and walking out onto the balcony. There she found two lounge chairs and a little end table. The apartment had hard wood floors with a couple of throw rugs strategically placed. Staring around in amazement, April turned towards Mama. "Are you sure you only want $100 a week, or is there a catch," she asked, suspicious, eyes narrowed. Mama let out a booming laugh. "No catch, cher. John told me you're down her to help out the family and protect his girls. I've known the Dupree's my whole life and those two girls are near and dear to me. If you're going to look out for them, then I've a mind to help you out. $100 a week, no strings. Unless something happens to those two sweet girls, then you and I will be having words." "Sweet? Jade, maybe, but sweet doesn't come to mind when describing Jasmine Dupree," April commented, her mind going back to the battle she had with Jasmine just a few hours ago. April had strongly suggested to Mr. Dupree that he hire bodyguards for Jade and Jasmine. Jade had just made a face like biting into something sour. Jasmine, however, had gone ballistic, flat out refusing to let some over grown thug follow her around all day. April had then remarked that Jasmine wouldn't be able to do much for Dupree Enterprises from the grave. At that, Jasmine had announced the meeting was over and had stormed out of her uncle's office, Jade following on her heels trying to calm her sister down. Chuckling, Mama said, "Yeah, John mentioned that you two got off on the wrong foot. She's a real hell fire, that one, but mostly she's just gotten a bit of a chip on her shoulder as of late. Some folks at Dupree weren't happy when John handed over the financial reins to a 25 year old. They're both sweet girls, but Jasmine's got a lot to prove and it's made her a little prickly." "Just a little," April said with a snort. Mama just gave her a knowing grin. "Ok, I'll take it. Here's the first $100 to cover this week. If it's ok, I'd like to just pay week to week, since I'm not sure how long I'll be around." Mama accepted the $100 bill April handed her, giving her a set of keys in return. "The bathroom's already stocked with towels and hand soap. If you need anything, just come on down to the bar." With that, Mama headed out the door, leaving April to marvel at her good luck. Throwing her suitcase on the bed, April searched for a phone outlet. Finding an empty one near the couch, she plopped her laptop on the coffee table and settled down to search the net. It was quickly approaching seven o'clock and, feeling wired from all the traveling she'd done today, she searched for a gay club in the quarter she could check out. Not knowing how Mama felt about lesbians, she didn't want to push her luck by asking her about it, possibly putting the brakes to the nice deal Mama was giving her on the apartment. After a quick Google search, April found a place called The Kitty Club that was just a few blocks away. Not having time to find a rental car, April decided to stick to whatever was within walking distance. After a quick shower, she dressed in her favorite leather pants, boots and a black silk poet's shirt, which had a rose embroidered on the back. April played with the lock on the front door, making sure she understood how it worked before leaving. With that settled, she took off down the street towards Bourbon, hoping she might find someone to hook up with. Work had kept her pretty busy the last few weeks and she could feel the pressure building up. Then again, that could just be from sparring with a certain gorgeous red head all afternoon, April thought with a grin. Sexy, but hell on the nerves, was how she was beginning to think of Jasmine. Jade, on the other hand, would have been worth at least a dinner date, if not for her being a client. Deep in thought, April was surprised to find herself in front of The Kitty Club so quickly. Pushing thoughts of the tempting sisters aside, she stood back and eyed the small line beginning to form at the door. She rushed over and jumped in line, just beating out a large group of girls who had just come around the corner from the parking lot. April quickly began flirting with the little blonde just ahead of her, but the line moved quickly, and April soon found herself inside the club, the blonde having disappeared. Oh well, she really wasn't my type anyway, April thought. Standing just inside the entrance, she took in the scene. On her right was a small group of tables with a second floor loft just above it with more tables. In front of that was a large fence, stretching from floor to ceiling, separating the tables from a recessed dance floor, which also had a small stage where the DJ was perched. Beside that, and directly across from her, was a raised floor, about two steps up, which housed several more tables. Then, to her right, was a circular bar with booths against the far wall. April elbowed her way up to the bar and, catching the eye of one of the bartenders, ordered a tequila and orange juice. Raising an eyebrow, the bartender, a petite girl with black hair spoke, "Tequila fan, huh? You wouldn't be friends with our famous Tequila Club would you?" "Tequila club? No, sorry. I'm too new in town to belong to any clubs just yet." The bartender pointed to a group behind April who were sitting on the raised platform beside the dance floor. In front, near the brass railing, several tables had been pushed together. Counting chairs, April figured there were about six people sitting there, but only two were there at the moment. "That's the group we call the Tequila Club. I swear, those girls can do shots all night. They've only been here about an hour, but I'm sure they'll get started soon enough. You should go over and say hi. Maybe they'll invite you to join them," the bartender said with a wink. "Thanks for the tip." April sat at the bar watching the table while she considered doing just that. About ten minutes later, she saw one of the women waving at the bar, trying to get the bartenders attention, while turning to look at a group of women coming towards the table from the dance floor. The bartender tapped April's arm. "That's their signal to bring over the first round of shots. If you want to help me with these, I'll introduce you," the bartender suggested as she layed two trays on top of the bar and began setting up shot glasses. Free pouring tequila, she filled a scary number of shots, and then handed one of the trays to April. She came around from behind the bar with the other loaded tray. Not wanting to waste a golden opportunity, April quickly fell in step behind the woman, threading her way through the crowd. As they neared the group, April swore under her breath. Pulling out chairs at the far end of the table where none other than Jade and Jasmine Dupree. Too late to back out, April took the two small steps in one stride and approached the sisters, gently placing the tray of shots, lemon and salt shakers down, directly in front of them. As the two woman looked up, April received to vastly different reactions. While she watched a grin spread across Jade's face, Jasmine looked like she could spit nails. Jade quickly greeted April, "Howdy cher. Where you at?" Making a show of looking around, April replied, "Last I checked, The Kitty Club." Jade laughed. Watching her blue eyes alight, April began to question her own rule about not getting involved with clients. "No silly, 'Where you at?' is Cajun for 'How are you doing?'" Jade explained. "Oh. Pretty good, thanks. That is, I will be if your sister stops looking at me like I'm something unpleasant she just found on her shoe," April said, grinning at Jasmine, daring the little spitfire to start another sparring match like the ones from that afternoon. Cajun Spice Ch. 01 Jade layed a hand on her sister's arm, stopping the barb that was about to spill forth. "Don't mind her, cher. It's that time of the month you know," Jade said with a grin and a quick glance at her sister. Jasmine smacked her sister in the arm and reached for a shot. "Is my uncle paying you so little that you've already resorted to a second job," Jasmine said with a smirk. "No, I thought I was about to do body shots with some hot looking woman, but I guess I got the wrong table," April shot back, she and Jasmine locked into a staring contest, both women too stubborn and too proud to be the first to blink. Sensing war about to break out, Jade stood up and, reaching over her sister, snagged a shot. Walking around Jasmine, Jade made her way over to stand beside April, who anxiously watched the classic beauty walk over. April was still admiring the way Jade looked in her tight leather skirt and purple camisole top when she realized Jade was offering her a shot. "I'd be happy to do a body shot with you, cher," Jade all but purred. Remembering her resolve not to mix business with pleasure, April swallowed the lump forming in her throat. "Why don't we just do a shot together? We really should keep it simple, you being a client and all." "Ok. Cheers then," Jade said, raising a shot in salute. April found herself unable to tear her eyes away from Jade as she avidly watched the woman lick the salt from the back of her hand, down the shot and then suck on the lemon wedge. Just then Jasmine bumped into her on her way to the dance floor, pulling her out her trance. "Don't forget to breath, cher," Jasmine hissed into April's ear on her way past. Crashing back to reality, April discovered Jade watching her intently, those brilliant blue eyes reflecting her enjoyment at catching April staring. "Don't mind her. Her prides been pricked at the idea that Uncle John thinks she needs help with her investigation, let alone a body guard." "I'm not the bad guy here. And you both need to seriously consider getting those bodyguards. I read those emails both of you received and, whoever sent them, means business. The closer you get to finding out who your embezzler is, the closer he'll get to acting on those threats. How high of a price are you two willing to pay for your pride?" Jade looked at April for a few moments, seeming to consider just how serious she was. Seeing that April wasn't joking, Jade sat down and motioned April to take the chair Jasmine just vacated. "What if I agree to the bodyguard? I'm a lesbian, so's my sister. Neither one of us would feel comfortable with some guy following us around all day. Now that I know you're gay too, I'm sure you can understand how we feel, or are you just here tracking us down?" "No, I'm gay. And yes, I understand the two of you being uncomfortable with a male bodyguard, but there are plenty of women in this business too. I'm sure we can find two that you and your sister would feel comfortable with. Ultimately, though, your uncle and I can't force you to get them. If you both refuse, well, I'll do my best, but it's impossible for me to watch both of you 24/7 and help with the investigation at the same time. Just, please, think about it." "Well, now, it might not be as hard for you to watch both us as you might think. Jasmine and I live together in our parents' old house. You could start tonight, if you want to come home with me," Jade asked. April could tell by the look in Jade's eye that she wasn't being invited home to play bodyguard, at least not in the traditional sense. Her eyes searching Jade's face, April could feel an internal struggle between wanting to keep things professional, and her quickly growing desire to get this woman between the sheets. Deciding she wasn't nearly drunk enough to make this hard of a decision, April handed Jade another shot. "Let me think about it. The night's still young, right?" Jade accepted the drink with a wicked grin. April had the passing thought that she'd probably burn in hell for what she was thinking. If I'm lucky, April thought, otherwise I'll just get fired from the case and watch my business go down the toilet, but God, I bet those blue eyes get smoky when she's turned on. April let out a small groan as she downed her shot. I am so screwed, she thought, as she felt the tequila burn its way down her throat. ####### As the night wore on, tequila flowed like water. It might have been the fourth round of shots, maybe the fifth, when April felt Jade's hand on her thigh, squeezing and rubbing, Jade's hand sliding in between her thighs from time to time. Looking over, her gaze locked with Jade's, who was staring intently. Taking the hint, April stood up and announced she had to call it a night. Jade agreed, right on cue, and suddenly everyone was getting up to leave, throwing money back and forth trying to figure out the bill when half of them could barely stand. Finally Sam, one half of one of the two couples that they were with, slapped her credit card on the waitress's tray. "Screw it! I'll cover the tab and the rest of you dead beats can pay me back when you're sober again and can count," shouted Sam. Laughing, she grabbed her girlfriend Trina's hand and head for the door. Rose and Emily followed them out. April grabbed Jade's hand, intending to follow everyone else, when Jasmine suddenly stepped in between them and gave April an icy glare. Taking the hint, April followed the other two couples out to the parking lot. She could hear Jasmine and Jade whispering furiously behind her. They reached the cars and April turned towards Jade, silently asking if she intended to follow through on her invitation. Jade caught her eye and slipped beside her, leaning against her side. April watched as Jasmine's eyes darken with anger. "I didn't agree to drive tonight so I could watch you make out with Yankee trash the whole way home Jade," Jasmine snapped. "So don't watch, baby girl. Just drive," Jade drawled. She took April's hand and, smiling, reached for the back door. April suddenly jumped back from the car as a set of keys came sailing between her head and Jade's, bouncing of the car door and hitting the pavement with a smack. "What the hell's the matter with you," April shouted at Jasmine. "I can't stop you from fucking my sister, cher, but I sure as hell don't have to play chauffer," Jasmine all but snarled back. Turning on her heel, Jasmine stomped back toward the street. April watched in amazement as Jasmine flagged down a cab. "Is your sister always such a raving bitch?" April asked Jade, while she watched Jasmine disappear into the back of a cab. "No, cher. Actually, she's pretty sweet and usually the life of the party." Hearing the amused tone in Jade's voice, April turned around to find five pairs of eyes all focused on her. "What!?! Hey, it's not my fault your sister has the disposition of an alley cat," April snapped. The speculative looks on everyone's faces were making her nervous. Almost as if they were all in on the same joke, everyone but her. "Oh, forget her. We need to find a way home before I loose my buzz," Jade purred, sending April a very meaningful look. "My apartment's just a few blocks away. Think you can walk?" "Will it be worth the walk, cher?" "And then some." With that, Jade slid her arm around April's and they headed back towards April's new apartment, waving goodbye to the other girls as they left the parking lot. ## By the time they reached her apartment, April could feel some of the alcohol start to wear off and her temperature soar. Throughout the walk over, Jade had whispered in her ear about all the things she wanted to do to her, occasionally nipping or licking her ear. They all but raced up the steps and April fumbled for her keys. Not used to the new locks, it took her a few minutes before she was able to push the door open. Seconds later, April twirled Jade through the door and up against the wall. She kissed Jade, their lips locked in battle, and April kicked the door shut with her foot. April began to feel the effects of almost living like a nun for the last month. She couldn't get enough of Jade. While their tongues warred, hands everywhere, April reached down and began slipping her hands up under Jade's skirt. She wanted to go slow, to tease, but as she felt the warmth of Jade's skin through her stockings, she felt something snap inside and shoved Jade's skirt up with one quick motion. Sliding her hands under Jade's twin globes, she pulled her as tight against her as she could, while pushing Jade into the wall with her body and deepening the kiss. Jade ripped her mouth away, gasping for air. "Oh God, oh baby, slow down or, I swear, we're both gonna explode right here." "Here's fine," April grunted, latching her mouth to Jade's neck, skimming the tip of her tongue in small circles, each circle getting a little bigger with every pass of her tongue. Jade groaned and frantically ran her hands down April's back. Finding the hem of April's shirt, she ripped it up and over. Pulling away to help Jade with her shirt, April froze, staring at long, shapely legs covered in her favorite women's underwear, stockings and a garter belt. She reached out, letting the tip of her fingers skim the milky white skin exposed just above Jade's stockings. Looking up, she found Jade watching her, her eyes a smoky, deep blue, her breathing, ragged gasps. "Like what you see, cher?" "I love garter belts. I always think women look sexy as hell wearing them, but on you.....," April felt the growl vibrate in the back of her throat as her eyes raked up and down Jade's body, enjoying the view. "Come here baby." With that, Jade reached up to cup the back of April's head, pulling her down for another mind-blowing kiss. April kept her hands on Jade's thighs, skimming her fingertips to the back of her thighs, then up front again, then back again, reaching around a little further between Jade's legs each time. She could feel Jade's groans vibrate through her. Suddenly she felt desperate for release. She grabbed the crotch of Jade's panties and, with a quick jerk, pulled them free. Her hand returning to Jade's mound, she traced a finger up and down Jade's slit, just the tip at first, then sliding in a little deeper with each pass. Finally, she pushed completely inside, biting back a moan at how wet Jade was, how easily her finger slid in. Jade sensed how close April was to losing control and pushed a hand down inside her pants. April felt her hips buck as Jade pushed two fingers inside her sopping wet pussy. She began bucking against Jade's hand, at the same time, she slid a second finger into Jade and quicken her pace, making sure to slap her palm against Jade's clit with each thrust. Jade mimicked her movements and, in moments, they were viciously bucking against each other, April practically pushing Jade through the wall. April felt the pressure building up inside, then, suddenly, her orgasm exploded, her heart pounding so hard she thought it might burst through her chest. Jade's orgasm quickly followed and they sank, exhausted, a sweaty heap of tangled limbs, to the floor. They sat there for what felt like forever, both gasping for air. April felt her heart beat slowly returning to normal, her vision finally coming back into focus. With a slight turn of her head, she gently kissed Jade's forehead. Working down, she planted light kisses on each closed eyelid and then brushed a soft kiss over her lips. "Mmmmmm," was her only response. Chuckling, April began to stand up, pulling Jade with her. "Come on baby. We can't spend the night on the floor." "Says you," Jade mumbled, falling against April, her legs not quite ready to hold her. "Oh God, cher. What the hell just happened?" "Sorry. It's been a while for me and I guess.... I guess I just sort of...popped." "Exploded is more like it. Combusted just like that guy from Spinal Tap," Jade said with a slurred giggle. Laughing, April guided them toward the bed. Trying to gently lower Jade, April stumbled against the frame and they crashed onto the mattress. Swearing, April crawled up and, flipping over onto her back, sank into the pillow. Jade dragged herself up beside her, laying her head on April's shoulder. Wrapping an arm around her waist, she held Jade to her, planting a kiss on the top of her head. "Should you call your sister and let her know you're not coming home?" "No. I'm sure she's figured that out for herself by now. Go to sleep April. I'm not done with you yet," Jade said on a yawn. Laughing, April closed her eyes, letting herself slide into sleep, her last thought being of a pair of emerald green eyes, sparkling with anger. Cajun Spice Ch. 02 Since I kept everyone waiting, we'll jump right to the good stuff. Enjoy. More of the series to come. Oh, by the way, this story is complete and total fiction. Any similarities to actual people are purely accidental. * Her nipples felt as hard as pebbles. She gasped as she felt the tip of a tongue flick across it. Then soft, wet lips slid down, engulfing her breast. They slid back, sucking the nipple, once again teasing it with that wonderful tongue. April groaned in protest as the mouth disappeared. Then gasped as it settled on her other breast, giving it the same exquisite attention. She glanced down, seeing a shock of red hair. She lost focus again as those magical lips slid down the center of her body, felt a tongue dip into her belly button, then disappear again. She purred as she felt that tongue trace her tattoo of a hummingbird that lay just above her mound. Suddenly that mouth latched onto her clit, sucking and teasing it with that tongue. Gasping, April jerked awake and found beautiful blue eyes staring back at her, sparkling with mischief. Then all thought fled as Jade began running her tongue, ever so slowly, up and down her slit. April's head crashed against the pillow, her hips jerking up to meet Jade's tongue. Satisfied that she had April's full attention, Jade reached up and parted April's labia, sinking her tongue into April's love hole with one swift motion. Jade growled as she finally got a taste of April's girl honey, sweat and a little salty. She started to work her tongue in and out of April's pussy. Slowly at first, then faster as April's hips bucked. April reached down to cup the back of Jade's head, pushing her down, silently begging Jade to go deeper. Jade stiffen her tongue and pushed in as deep as she could. "Oh Goddddddd! Don't stop, baby. Please, Jade, don't stop," April gasped, her hips picking up speed. Sensing April was close to orgasm, Jade held her head still, her face pushed as far into April's pussy as she could go. She bent the tip of her tongue up. A scream ripped from April's throat as she felt Jade's tongue hit her sweet spot. Jade then reached a hand up and began rubbing April's clit, pressing harder and harder as she felt April's body writher and twist against her. "Jade! Oh God Jade!" April screamed as she felt her orgasm break. She arched her back and held it as waves of sensation spiraled through her. Finally, she slumped down against the mattress, gasping for air. Smiling, Jade dragged herself up April's body, pressing against her as she went. "Good morning, sunshine," Jade purred, kissing April, letting her taste herself on Jade's lips. April kissed her back, licking every drop of her cum from Jade's lips and face. "It's still dark baby. God, but you're up early!" Jade laughed. "That would be a really wicked thing to say to me if I was a guy, cher." "Thank God you're not. No guy has ever managed to get my juices flowing this early in the morning." "Lord, but you're naughty." "Wicked, baby. Wicked. There's a difference." "And what would that be?" "Take a shower with me and I'll show you," April whispered. Now that she was wide-awake, she felt the need to really taste this woman. She wanted more than what she got last night when she was too drunk and too horny to take her time. April flipped Jade over onto her back. Climbing out of bed, she turned back, letting Jade look her fill. Grinning, she watched Jade's eyes as they traced the length of her well-toned body. In her line of work, you had to stay fit and, just this minute, she was glad of all that time she spent working out at home. Her aerobic workout kept her slim and toned. Weight lifting gave her a strength that most people didn't realize she had, since April was careful that she didn't get the look of a Schwarzenegger with tits, though she could bench press her weight, plus some. Just then, she felt a little thrill of triumph as those brilliant blue eyes darken, a look of hunger spreading across Jade's face. April's grin turned wicked as she thought of how all that weight lifting was about to pay off. Reaching out, April grabbed Jade's hand, dragging her off the bed and down the hall towards the bathroom. She pulled Jade inside and shut the door. Reaching into the shower, she turned the water on, adjusting the knobs to get the right temperature. She stood with her hand under the spray, waiting for the water to turn warm, and took the time to get her first really good look at Jade. Sensing her appraisal, Jade turned her back to the sink. Placing her hands on either side, she grasped the edge and leaned back a little. She spread her feet just a little bit apart so April could get a good view of her shaved pussy. Watching Jade pose for her, April felt herself getting turned on, a fresh wave of juices spreading through her. Realizing the water was where she wanted it; she stepped into the shower, never breaking eye contact with Jade. She crocked a finger, motioning Jade to join her. Jade sucked in a breath at the evil grin on April's face. "Said the spider to the fly, huh cher?" "I won't bite Jade. Not unless you want me to." "I want. I definitely want." With that, Jade stepped into the shower, under the spray and into April's waiting arms. April slowly turned so that Jade's back was against the shower wall. She reached out and pulled the curtain shut, cocooning them in the shower. April just stood there, her hands resting lightly on Jade's hips, just the tips of their breasts touching under the warm spray. Jade shuddered; suddenly realizing she might be in over her head. Feeling Jade's reaction and, noticing the hint of nervousness that crept across her face, April soften her smile. "Relax baby. I'm not dangerous. I just really enjoy my work." "Being a P.I.?" Jade stuttered, her tongue suddenly feeling too thick and heavy to form words. April laughed. "That too, but right now I mean working on you." She reached for the soap and, building up lather in her hands, began soaping Jade's body. She took her time, enjoy the feel of Jade's soft skin and gentle curves. She started at her shoulders and glided her hands up and down her arms, working in the soap as she went. Then, with her hands back at Jade's shoulders, she slid them down her sides, squatting down to reach her feet. Kneeling, she soaped Jade's legs, making sure she hit every spot, behind her knees, the inside of her thighs. She purposefully skipped Jade's pussy. Standing up again, April began soaping Jade's chest, spending extra time on the shape and feel of Jade's breasts, teasing the nipples with her fingers. She pinched one nipple between her thumb and forefinger and began rolling it between her fingers. Jade moaned, the sound coming from the back of her throat. "See? That's not so scary, now is it?" Unable to speak, Jade just shook her head no, her eyes riveted on April's every move. Chuckling, April reached up and, grabbing Jade by the shoulders, slowly turned her around so she was facing the wall. April began washing her back, gently sliding her hands over Jade's heart shaped ass. Then she stepped back, Jade letting out a whimper of protest at the sudden lose. Then April's hand was near her face, offering the bar of soap. "Your turn, baby." Jade turned around, leaning against the wall for support. Her body felt so tight, her knees weak and every drop of water felt like pin pricks against her highly sensitive skin. April gave her a gentle smile and just stood there, hands at her sides, not making a move. Jade looked up to find April watching her. Seeing the patience in her eyes, Jade felt a little calmer, so she started to wash April, taking her time in the same places April had with her. She marveled at April's body. She was fascinated with her tattoos. April had a hummingbird on her abdomen with vines, one on each side, which spread over her hips and wrapped around her body to form a heart shape at the small of her back. At the top of her back was a phoenix, its wingspan spreading from shoulder to shoulder and ended right around where her bra strap would sit. There was a claddagh around her left ankle and a Celtic knot band that wrapped around her upper right arm. She also had scars. Some where probably just cuts that hadn't healed well, but there was one, on her left thigh, that was almost three inches long. Jade just bet there was one hell of a story that went with it. April felt the sweet tension begin to slowly build as Jade's hands explored her body. She was really enjoying the combination of Jade's soft hands and the rich lather of soap. When the tension reached a slow ache, April stopped Jade and turned her around so, once again, her hands were braced against the wall, her nipples flattened against it. April stepped up so her front was pressing against Jade's back, barely a drop able to pass between them. April placed her lips on Jade's neck, just over her pulse point. She felt Jade's heart begin to race as she rested her hands low on the side of Jade's legs. April dragged her hands slowly up Jade's sides, brushing her breasts with the tips of her fingers, and then running her hands back down. She repeated this several times as she used her tongue to trace small circles on Jade's neck, right over her pulse. Jade's heart hammered away, beating so hard, April could feel the vibrations through her tongue and echo through her body. As Jade started to pant, April slid her hands around to Jade's mound. Slowly, she pushed a finger into her wet channel. Feeling Jade's girl honey pour out over her hand, April slid a second finger insider her and began to slowly finger fuck Jade. With her other hand, April began teasing Jade's clit. Jade began to rock her body back and forth, bucking against April's hand and then pressing back against her chest. Suddenly, April jerked Jade around so her back was to the wall. April sank down to her knees and pushed her face and arms down between Jade's legs, hooking them up over her shoulders. Jade shrieked as she was suddenly lifted into the air. On instinct, she wrapped her legs and arms around April's head, holding on for dear life as she felt April's hands cup her butt, holding her in place. April thrilled at Jade's response and, knowing Jade was close to the edge, began to tongue fuck her in earnest. She couldn't get enough of Jade's sticky sweetness as her tongue pounded in and out of Jade's vagina, rubbing and pushing her nose against Jade's clit. Jade slammed one hand against the ceiling for leverage, the other hand forming a death grip on the back of April's head, and began bucking wildly against April's mouth. She could feel her orgasm building to furious proportions inside her. Seconds later, the world exploded, Jade went blind as waves of pleasure crashed through her. She could feel her own cum pouring out, April's tongue lapping against the walls of her pussy as she frantically tried to drink it all in. Jade sank back against the wall, trembling as smaller orgasms spread through her body. Gasping for air, she pressed both hands against the ceiling, afraid of falling. She yelped as she felt herself begin to slide down the wall. Suddenly soft, gentle arms wrapped around her, helping her stay on her feet. She slumped against April, wrapping her hands over April's shoulders, knowing full well that this woman was the only reason she was standing at all. She felt a warm breath as April feathered kisses over her face. "Come on baby. Let's get you out of here and back to bed. The hot water's starting to run out." "So that's wicked, huh?" Jade managed between gulps of air. "What about you?" "You already took care of me Jade. This was me returning the favor." "I didn't think I was THAT good, cher," Jade said on a weak laugh. "You were inspirational baby. Now come on. You've got to lay down before you fall down." April helped Jade out of the shower, sat her down on the toilet seat and began toweling Jade dry. She then dried herself off and, reaching for fresh towels, she wrapped one around herself and another around Jade. Lifting Jade onto her feet, she let her sag against her, taking the bulk of her weight, and led her back to bed. Jade felt the mattress give under her weight as April gently laid her down. She felt April pull the sheets up and tuck her in. She reached out blindly, her eyes still fighting to come into focus, and, feeling April's arm, grabbed on, pulling her into bed with her. "Stay with me, please," she whispered. April turned Jade onto her side and then slid in behind her, she above the sheets, Jade under them, and wrapped an arm around Jade's waist. Pulling Jade against her, she pushed her hair aside and kissed the nape of her neck. "Relax baby. Go to sleep. I'll stay right here until you wake up." April held her new lover against her, listening as Jade's breathing evened out and slowed. Suddenly feeling a little possessive, she tightened her hold on Jade's waist, and watched the sun rise and spill through the balcony doors. Cajun Spice Ch. 03 Once again, this story is complete fiction. Those of you looking forward to a repeat of part two will be disappointed. However, if you can be patient with me, I promise some really steamy scenes coming up in future installments. Enjoy. * April woke up slowly. As she pried her eyes open, she quickly shut them again, blinded by the morning light. Oh shit! She sprang upright to find the apartment awash with the morning sun. She twisted around to find the alarm clock. Ten o'clock. Shit! "Jade. Jade. Wake up baby." April gently shook Jade awake. "Whaaaat?" "Get up baby. We are so late." "Huh?" "It's ten o'clock Jade. You're late for work." "Shit! Ten o'clock?" "You were suppose to be at work an hour ago. I'll bet John and your sister are freaking out, wondering where you are." Wide-awake now, Jade leaped out of bed. "Where's my purse, cher?" "Over by the door I think. Why?" "I need my cell phone." Jade rushed over to the front door, frantically searching for her purse. Finding it, she dug out her phone. "Damn! I left it on last night and now the battery's dead." "Use my phone to call your cell. It's on the wall near the couch." Finding the wall phone, Jade quickly punched in her cell number and started hitting keys to access her messages. "Oh man," she groaned. "Jasmine's left six messages this morning. Even Uncle John left one. "You can have the bathroom first. It won't take me long to get ready." With that, Jade raced across the apartment into the bathroom. Hearing the door slam shut, April sank back against the headboard. Last night was wonderful but, God, was she making a mess of things. Visions of getting to the office and John telling her she was fired, started playing through her mind. She let out a groan and thumped her head against the bed. ## Forty-five minutes later, Jade and April rushed through the lobby of Dupree Enterprises and jumped into the first available elevator. April had the brief thought that this was getting a bit too familiar. She turned her attention to Jade. Ever since Jade had disappeared into the bathroom this morning, April had been debating what to do about this new relationship. She really liked Jade. She was fun, easy to be with, and the sex was great, but she was, after all, a client, and April knew she had crossed the line by spending the night with her. "Jade?" "Yeah baby," came Jade's absent-minded reply as she watched the floors tick by on the screen. "About last night..." "Last night was great, cher. Meet me after work and maybe we can go to dinner. Or something," she said with a wicked little grin. "I'd really like that but...." Jade turned, giving April her full attention now. She had a bad feeling she knew what was coming next. April saw by the look on Jade's face that she was waiting for the break up speech. Feeling like a complete heel, she stared at the floor, trying to figure out what to do. Oh hell! "I'd love to have dinner. When do you think you'll be done?" A wide grin spread across Jade's face. Suddenly the doors opened. Any further conversation was cut short as they both jumped out of the elevator and rushed down to Jade's office. They burst through the door, startling Jade's secretary Sally. "Sorry, Sally. Where's my spare suit? As you can see, I'm running a little late today," Jade said with a smirk. April and Jade walked into Jade's office while Sally went looking for Jade's suit. April plopped down in one of the two chairs in front of the desk, while Jade took her seat. Just then, the door flew open, revealing one very angry red headed Cajun. "Where the hell have you two been!? Wait. Don't answer that. I think I know, since you're still wearing the same clothes from last night," Jasmine fixed a furious stare on her sister. April hadn't even turned around in her chair. Round two, she thought. Jade glanced at her sister, her lips twitching with the smile she was trying to suppress, and made a show of checking her email. "Well? One of you answer me, dammit!" April could feel Jasmine vibrating with anger. Pushing out of the chair, she walked over to face her new nemesis. "Since you can obviously tell where we've been, and what we've been doing, I figured that was a rhetorical question." If looks could kill, April figured she'd drop like a stone right there. They stood glaring at each other, April refusing to say any more, when they both jumped at the sound of Jade's scream. April spun around to find Jade shaking in her chair, eyes riveted to the computer screen. She rushed around the desk and, taking one look at the computer, hauled Jade out of her seat and pushed her towards Jasmine. "Take care of her," she barked. The screen was filled with a digital picture of some very recent road kill. Slowly, the picture faded out and was replaced with one sentence that was positioned dead center on the page. "Back off bitch. Or you're next." Jasmine held onto Jade, trying to comfort her, but her eyes never left April's face. She watched in awe as anger leaped into April's eyes and then, just as quickly, was squashed down, eyes going flat. She marveled at how quickly April tapped down her anger; at the iron clad control this woman had on her emotions. If someone were to walk in right now, they probably wouldn't realize that April was mad enough to spit nails. Unless, of course, they noticed her hands clenching and unclenching, every so slightly, as she held them to her side. Jasmine started to let go of Jade and come around the desk, but April held up a hand, stopping her. "Have you checked your email yet today," April asked. "No. I was waiting for Jade. When she didn't show up by 9:15, I started looking around the office and calling her cell. I haven't even turned my computer on yet." "Good. Don't. Take Jade somewhere else and settle her down. Better yet, go to John's office. Both of you should just stay and work there today." Jasmine started to protest, but April cut her off with a glare. "Don't argue. Just go. I'm going to stay here and try to trace this email." With that, April sat down and tucked in behind the desk. She began working away on the keyboard. Sensing she had just been dismissed, Jasmine wrapped her arms around a still shaking Jade and led her out, closing the door behind her. April couldn't remember the last time she was this furious. She was all but shaking with anger. She started pounding away at the keyboard, determined to find an IP address she could trace. April knew the embezzler had sent this email, probably hearing that the Dupree's had hired a P.I., and started getting nervous. She wanted this bastard in the worse way. ## April hung up the phone and sank back in the chair. Throughout the day, as she had found each IP address, she had called a friend of hers back in Pittsburgh who was an ace at translating IP's into to a person and an address. So far though, Mike had come up empty. Each call had turned up nothing more than either a fake address and name, or the address of one of many public internet cafes that were scattered all over the city. Obviously, whoever had sent the email knew their electronics. They had set the email up so that it bounced all over the place before actually reaching its intended receiver. She ran her hands over her face in exhaustion. Glancing up at the wall clock she saw that it was after 9 p.m. The office had emptied out hours ago. April stood up and stretched. She hadn't left the chair since this morning, except for a few quick trips to the ladies room. She had buzzed John's office and talked to all three members of the Dupree family. Jade was pretty shaken up and had gone home with Jasmine shortly after lunch. April let out a sigh, racking her brain for a new idea. Noticing the pictures on Jade's desk, she leaned over for a closer look. Spying one of Jade and Jasmine, she picked it up and sank back into the chair. Holding the frame in her lap, she studied the two women. At first glance, most people would probably never suspect they were sisters. Jade was 5' 8" with long, straight, raven black hair and blue eyes. Jasmine stood about 5' 6", her bright red hair spilling down her back in a cascade of curls, her eyes an emerald green. Staring at the picture, April began to pick out the small details that, when noticed, spoke to the reality of both women being sisters. They shared the same complexion, creamy, rose tinged skin. The delicate cheekbones and petite noses made April think of a porcelain doll. She sighed, her thoughts turning to their different personalities. Where Jade was relaxed and fun loving, Jasmine was wound tighter than a top, always defensive. April thought back to last night, in the parking lot, when Jade had told her that Jasmine was vastly different than what April was seeing. I wish I could get a glimpse of that, she thought. Looking up, April stared at the email message she'd been dissecting all day. Jasmine may hate her but, for some reason, April realized she cared very much about her safety, Jasmine's and Jade's. It wasn't just a case anymore. Hell, maybe it never was. Never the less, somewhere along the way things had taken a personal bent. Now the sisters' safety was a lot more than just a basic security issue. Reaching for the phone, April placed a call, hoping to cash in a few favors that were owed her. Ten minutes later, she placed the handset back in its cradle. Satisfied that she had gotten the ball rolling on a very necessary step, she refocused on the computer. A fresh idea sprang to mind. There was one more trace she hadn't tried yet. She started the run and, knowing that it would take a while, headed over to Jasmine's office. She needed to verify that Jasmine had received the same email and run the same tests on her computer. That way, she would have two sets of results to compare. She strode towards Jasmine's office, the whole floor quite as a tomb. Somewhere in this pile of IP addresses was her embezzler. He had to be. April didn't want to consider the alternative. ## Jasmine strolled down the hall towards her office. Jade had stayed home, still unnerved from yesterday's email. They hadn't heard a word from April since yesterday afternoon, right before Jasmine had taken her sister home. She had called her uncle before leaving the house this morning, to see if he knew anything new. He hadn't heard anything either, but insisted that April had come highly recommended, and that Jasmine needed to leave her be and let her do her job. All night last night, Jasmine had mulled over what she knew about April. Gathering all of her impressions, Jasmine had to admit that the woman was a bit of a puzzle. When she had questioned Jade about their budding relationship, Jade had flatly refused to hear a single bad word. She told Jasmine she should try talking to April instead of biting her head off and then form an opinion. Still mulling over thoughts of the infuriating P.I., Jasmine opened her office door, surprised to find April asleep in her chair. Quietly, Jasmine closed the door and leaned against the wall, studying the woman in front of her. God, she slept here, didn't she? April was still wearing the same clothes from yesterday morning. There was no sign of food, or food wrappers, anywhere, so Jasmine wondered if she had eaten at all last night. Deciding to take Jade's advice and call a truce, she pushed off from the wall and headed back out to get some breakfast. ## April was vaguely aware of food. The smell of it anyway. For a moment, she thought it was just a dream, seeing as all she ate last night were a few candy bars from the vending machine she found. She eased her eyes open and began to sit up, groaning when she felt the muscles in her neck protesting any movement. "Morning, cher. How about some breakfast?" Wiping the sleep dust away, April felt her eyes come into focus. She rolled her head slowly, trying to work the kinks out, and heard her stomach growl. She glanced up at Jasmine, watching as she unwrapped a breakfast sandwich and laid it on the desk, along with a coffee cup. "I didn't know how you liked your coffee, so I just got it black. I brought some cream and sugar if you want it." "Orange juice," April croaked. Clearing her throat she looked back up at Jasmine. "Thank you, but I'm not a coffee drinker. I usually have a glass of orange juice in the morning." "You don't drink coffee? God, but you're an odd one. I would think someone in your line of work would drink caffeine like it was going out of style." "I live for caffeine. I just prefer it cold. After my orange juice, I switch to soda." "I see. You like to kill two birds with one stone; caffeine and a sugar buzz." "You got it," April answered, smiling. "But thanks for the sandwich. Oh man, that smells good." "Wait here. I'll go raid the company icebox. I'm sure someone keeps orange juice around here." With that, Jasmine disappeared out the door. April just sat there for a minute, wondering if she was really awake or not. Jasmine had just been really nice to her. She pinched herself and, feeling the sting, realized that the Jasmine who had just brought her breakfast was, indeed, the real thing. Smiling, she picked up her sandwich and dug in. A few minutes later, Jasmine reappeared with a bottle of orange juice, which she set down in front of April. Then she sat down in the chair opposite the desk and started to dig another sandwich out of the bag for herself. She sat there nibbling on it, watching as the last few crumbs of April's food disappeared. "You can have half of mine if you're still hungry. You didn't eat last night, did you?" "I snagged a couple of candy bars." "High cuisine indeed," Jasmine said, laughing. April smiled, enjoying the sound of Jasmine's sexy laugh. "My job usually means odd hours so, I eat what I can, when I can." April's stomach let out another growl and Jasmine peeled with laughter. After she settled down, she found a plastic knife in the bag and cut off half of her sandwich, handing it to April. April accepted it with a sheepish grin. "Again, thank you. How'd you know I hadn't eaten?" "No food wrappers." April smiled. This woman didn't miss a trick. "How's Jade?" "Still shaky. She decided to work from home today. You should call her later. I'll give you the number." April scowled at the idea that Jade was so spooked by that email, that she felt safer at home than her office. "Thanks. I'll call her in a little bit." "Did you find anything?" "Not yet. I ran one last test on your computer and Jade's. I need to get the results off of Jade's computer so I can compare them. I've got a guy on standby that can trace the IP addresses. Hopefully, we'll get a hit." Polishing off the rest of her food, April sat back and considered Jasmine for a minute, watching her finish her half of the sandwich. This is nice, she thought, having breakfast together. Just as quickly, she shook off the thought. Remembering the favors she called in last night, she decided it was past time to follow up with a few things. "Listen. Why don't you go on down to John's office. I'm going to finish up here, make a few calls. I should have some information in about half an hour. I'll meet you down at John's." "Ok." With a quick shrug, Jasmine stood up, gathered the remains of their breakfast, tossed it into the wastebasket, and headed out the door. God, that was too easy, April thought. Well, I'll take what I can get because she certainly won't like the rest. April made her calls, confirming that arrangements were in place and that the people she requested were coming in. Then she headed off to Jade's office, hoping she'd soon have a name. ## Jasmine was working away at the conference table in John's office when April walked in. Looking up, she found April standing just inside the doorway, watching her. She could tell by her face she wasn't going to like what came next. "Nothing. This guy knows his computers, or he found someone who does. Everything came back as fake names and addresses." April crossed the room, bracing her hands on the back of the chair opposite Jasmine. "I've called your uncle and Jade and updated them. The four of us are going to meet here in a couple of hours. I'm going to introduce you and Jade to your bodyguards." Jasmine jumped up, slamming a hand on the table. "Damn it, April. I told you I wouldn't agree to a bodyguard." "We're past the point where you get a choice, Jasmine. This guy's stolen way too much money to back off now. He'll want to tie up any loose ends before skipping town, now that he knows your family is on to his scheme. You and Jade are loose ends. I saw the emails, Jasmine. This guy means business and right now, I'm chasing a ghost. You're both getting guards. End of discussion." Jasmine stood there, realizing that the situation was much worse than she had originally thought. She hadn't seen the emails, but they must have been pretty bad, judging from April's reaction. April was worried. She could tell by the look in her eyes. Then it dawned on her. April was taking their safety personally. "Then I want you." "Excuse me?" "I want you to be my bodyguard." "I can't. There's no way I can watch you 24/7 and still smoke this guy out." "You're my bodyguard, April. I'll just ditch anyone else." The two women April had hired were pros at security, but April knew that if anyone could shake them, it would probably be Jasmine. Suddenly she was desperate for a cigarette. "I'm going out. I'll be right back, so don't go anywhere." Stewing, she left the office and took the elevator to the lobby. Stepping outside, she crossed the plaza to the street corner and looked around for a convenience store. Spying a drug store across the street, she jogged over, dodging traffic. Entering the store, she made a beeline for the counter and bought a pack of cigarettes and a lighter. Back outside, she promptly sat down on the curb and lit up. After taking a drag, she sank her head into her hand, her elbow propped on her knee. She was dog tired and in a jam. There was no way she could be Jasmine's bodyguard. Aside from logistics, she had just slept with Jade, but her attraction to Jasmine hadn't cooled any either. Her head jerked up as she felt someone sit down beside her. Looking over, she found herself face to face with Jasmine. "Can't you do anything you're told?" April snapped out. "Since when do you smoke?" "Since I've got an embezzler sending threatening emails, two sisters who are too damn stubborn to realize they're up to their necks in hot water and I haven't had a whole night of sleep in almost three days." April realized she was shouting, hung her head and ran a hand through her hair in frustration. Suddenly Jasmine reached out and cupped April's cheek in her hand. "You're maxed out, aren't you, cher?" The softness of Jasmine's voice undid her and she pressed her cheek into Jasmine's hand, feeling tired clean down to her bones. She felt Jasmine inch closer and wrap an arm around her shoulders. "I'm sorry, cher, but if you insist on me having a bodyguard, I want you." "Why?" "I trust you. Something tells me that if this guy comes near me, you'll tear him apart." April turned her head to face Jasmine. "I would." Jasmine saw the look of sheer determination in April's eyes. "April...," her name came out in a silky whisper. April studied Jasmine. Finding those green eyes locked on hers, she found nothing more than sympathy and understanding. Within seconds, though, she could also feel that spark of electricity that was always there between them. "Jasmine, I ....," April stopped herself, aware that she was about to make a confession she shouldn't make. Tossing her cigarette into the street, she jumped up and headed down the sidewalk, desperate to put some space between herself and Jasmine. Cajun Spice Ch. 03 Jasmine jumped up and ran after her. Jumping in front of April, she put her hands on her shoulders, stopping April in her tracks. "Take me home with you." "What? No!" "Take me home with you, April. I'll ... I'll watch over you while you sleep." But April knew from the look in Jasmine's eye that the last thing they would do is sleep. She couldn't take it anymore. Leaning in, she kissed her, gently at first, just a brushing of lips. Feeling Jasmine respond, April deepen the kiss, sliding her tongue between Jasmine's butter soft lips. Jasmine's tongue darted out to meet hers and their tongues began gliding over each other, sliding in and out of each other's mouths. Feeling people staring, April pulled back. Looking around, she saw one young man in particular standing across the street, watching them like a hawk. Grabbing Jasmine's hand, April took off down the street, pulling Jasmine along behind her. Spying an alleyway, April ducked inside, pulling Jasmine in after her. Pushing Jasmine against the wall, she pressed in, fastened her mouth on Jasmine's once again, and picked up where she left off. She buried one hand in Jasmine's silky hair, cupping the back of her head, keeping her still while she plundered her mouth. Her other hand slid down to cup Jasmine's ass. Oh God! She was a perfect fit. April's hand instinctively flexed, giving Jasmine's ass a little squeeze. Feeling April's hands on her, Jasmine moaned into April's mouth. She wanted her closer. She tried to lift her leg, to give April more access, but the pressure of April's body against hers had her skirt pulled taut against her legs. She slipped her foot out of her dress shoe, lifting her leg high enough to plant her stocking clad foot flat against the back of April's calf. Now her legs were spread wide enough that she could feel April sink deeper in between her legs. The fly of April's jeans was putting delicious pressure on her clit, and her hips bucked in response. April felt herself sink deeper between Jasmine's legs and her heart leaped. She dove her tongue even deeper into Jasmine's velvety, hot mouth, trying to swallow her whole. Her hand slid up from Jasmine's ass, slipped under her suit jacket, and settled against the small of her back, urging Jasmine even closer. Their breasts were smashed against each other, nipples rubbing together, their tongues delving deeper and deeper as their need rose. Jasmine felt another moan rise up from deep within. She could feel the dampness of April's palm on her back through her silk shirt. She felt her vagina clenching and unclenching, her juices flooding her panties. She needed more. She wrapped both arms around April's waist and pulled her body as flat against hers as humanly possible. She felt her hips buck again and wished to God she could just lift her skirt, wrap her legs around April's waist, and ride her fly. April felt her control slipping and yanked her head away. She took a step back, chest heaving, panties damp. Jasmine whimpered at the sudden loss. Dear God, April thought, a few more minutes of this, and she'd have fucked Jasmine blind right here in the alley. Trying to get control of herself, she let her gaze drink in the sultry picture Jasmine made. Her hair was tussled, as if she had just gotten out of bed. Her full, pouty lips were a beautiful deep red and swollen from April's kisses. Jasmine's jacket was hanging open and April could see her gorgeous C cups straining against the silk blouse. The phrase "fallen angel" leaped to mind. Afraid if she stared much longer, she'd attack Jasmine all over again, she glanced over towards the street. The young man from earlier was still across the street, leaning against a light post, avidly watching the alley. April could swear she could see the bulge in his pants from here. She moved over to lean against the wall, her back to the street, blocking the man's view of Jasmine. She reached behind her, grabbed the hem of the shirt jacket she wore over a tank top, and lifted it up. Then, quickly let go, letting the shirt fall back into place. She shifted to stand on the other side of Jasmine, turning just in time to see the young man spin on his heels and rush off down the street. Jasmine watched the man disappear into the crowd. She had spotted him earlier too. When April pulled her into the alley and started kissing her, she thought she was putting on a show for him, Jasmine finding a perverse thrill from it. Now, watching him scurry away, she began feeling suspicious. She pushed off from the wall, quickly spinning around to stand behind April. Grabbing April's shirt, she lifted it up to find a .9mm Glock tucked into the back of her jeans. April jerked away, spinning to face Jasmine. Jasmine exploded. "What the hell are you doing with that? Were the hell did you get it?" "I always carry a piece. I just wasn't able to bring mine with me on the flight, so I picked one up when I got here. It's not that hard you know, if you know where to look." "And you know where to look," Jasmine's voice dripping with sarcasm. "Uhuh. Every cities the same, Jasmine, the only thing different are the faces." "Are you out of your mind," Jasmine shouted. "There's no way you've had time to get a permit. If a cop catches you with that you'll be facing felony charges. Then you can kiss your license goodbye." Jasmine glared at April. April stared right back, hands in her pockets, looking somewhat bored. "I know. I don't plan on getting caught." "No one ever does, cher. Get rid of that damn thing, or don't come back to the office. I swear, if you show up with that gun, I'll call the police myself." With that, Jasmine stormed out of the alley, heading back towards her office building, straightening her clothes as she went. April walked out to the edge of the alley, leaned against the corner of the building and pulled out another cigarette. Lighting up, she watched Jasmine disappear down the street. She stood there for a few minutes, considering her options. She didn't doubt that Jasmine would, indeed, call the police on her. Glancing at her watch, she saw that it was almost time for her meeting in John's office. The bodyguards she hired should already be here. Making up her mind, April spotted a large trash container half way down the alley and walked up to it. She looked around to make sure no one could see her. She reached under her shirt and pulled out the gun. She released the clip and freed the bullet from the chamber, then, using her shirttail, wiped the gun down and tossed it into the trash bin. She picked the extra bullet up off the ground and worked it back into the clip, tucking the clip into her jeans pocket. She may have had to toss the gun, but she'd be damned if she was leaving a loaded weapon laying around for some fool to find. As she passed a community trash can, she palmed the clip out of her pocket and dropped it in. Now she felt naked, already regretting ditching the Glock. As she neared Dupree Enterprises, she admitted to herself that losing the gun wasn't the only thing bothering her. Finally getting a taste of Jasmine Dupree, only to have her storm off, was what was really sticking in her craw. Spotting the drug store she had just bought the cigarettes in, she ducked inside. She really was worn out and needed to get some caffeine into her system. Walking up to the cooler, she snagged a couple bottles of Cherry Coke, paid the clerk, and rushed across the street to the Dupree building. Riding the elevator back up to the top floor, she glanced at her watch again. She was late. Well, at least she'd get to make a grand entrance. Moments later, she pushed through John Dupree's office door to find all three Duprees already there, plus her two security pros. Jade was sitting on the couch, looking incredibly bored. Jasmine was standing in the far corner; her arms wrapped around her stomach, looking out the window, her back to the room. Their uncle stood behind his desk, Lisa and Tori, the pros April had called, standing on either side of him. The two newcomers where both tall and well built. Lisa looked a lot like April. Both women were brunettes, their hair so dark some people thought it was black. Both had brown eyes, but April's had a tinge of green, a genetic gift from her mother. They even looked enough a like in the face, for people to ask if they were related. Tori is a blue-eyed blonde. April addressed the two bodyguards. "Thanks for coming on such short notice. Have you met everyone yet?" "John introduced us," Lisa replied. Jasmine had turned around at the sound of April's voice, never once taking her eyes off of her. April stood watching her for a minute, and then deliberately turned her back to Jasmine. She set the cokes down on the conference table and made a show of taking off her shirt jacket, folding it over the back of a chair. She turned around and met Jasmine's eyes. Jasmine smiled, relieved to see that April had listened to her and gotten rid of the illegal gun. She had panicked when she saw it, afraid that April would get caught with it. Jasmine wouldn't admit it to anyone, not even her sister, but the thought of facing this unknown foe, without April, was too upsetting an option to even consider. April saw the look of relief spread over Jasmine's face and made her final decision. Turning her attention back to the bodyguards, she started to speak. "Slight change in plans. Lisa, I'm assigning you to Jade and Tori, you've got John." John spoke up just then, "What about Jasmine?" April looked Jasmine dead in the eye. "I'm guarding Jasmine." The room was silent for a moment. April watched a small smile spread across Jasmine's face, giving her a very triumphant look. Uh, oh. I've got my hands full here, April thought. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Jade stand up and cross over to her. Leaning in, Jade whispered in her ear. "Not me, cher?" April felt the guilt deep in her gut. For a moment she couldn't look at Jade and then, turning her head, whispered back. "I've already crossed the line where you're concerned, Jade. Being your bodyguard when we've already slept together is just too much, even for me." Seeming to be satisfied with that answer, Jade headed for the door, motioning Lisa to follow her. "I'm heading home, cher. Better hurry if you want to keep up." Lisa shot April a look as she passed her in a rush to keep Jade in sight. April chuckled. Lisa was already beginning to realize that she was going to have her hands full. If nothing else, the Dupree sisters were certainly a challenge. Cajun Spice Ch. 04 The meeting had broken up quickly after Jade and Lisa left. John departed for the meetings he had that afternoon, Tori in tow. Jasmine went back to her temporary office she had set up on John's conference table. April hauled out her own laptop, and settled down to run through the IP addresses again. Running out of ideas, she thought she'd take a swing at seeing if any of the fake names might be a real name, twisted around. Or maybe one of these fake names could be the name of a relative of an employee. It was one hell of a long shot, and would take countless hours to sort through, but she was running out of threads to pull. "Have you had any luck tracing the books," April asked Jasmine. "No. The computer records the initials of the person who makes the entry, but when I questioned the people the computer credits with the altered entries, I get solemn oaths that it wasn't them. Several people have even volunteered for lie detectors. Can you believe that?" "I've seen enough to believe people are capable of damn near anything." "Well, it all checks out, so far." Studying April, Jasmine felt her curiosity begin to peak. Taking a chance, she decided to find out if she could get April to dish a little. "So tell me, cher, have you always wanted to be a private investigator?" April glanced up from her laptop, found Jasmine studying her, and gave the woman her full attention. "No. I just kind of fell into it." "How?" Here it comes, the inquisition. "I worked part-time as a secretary for this P.I. back home, when I was in school. Eventually, he started teaching me the basics, like how to do background checks, that kind of thing. When I graduated, I realized that I probably wasn't going to find a job in journalism, and I really liked the work I was doing for Ed, so he helped me get my license and hired me on as another investigator." "You went to college?" Jasmine seemed a little surprised that April had a college degree. Feeling defensive at Jasmine's reaction, April's answer was a little sharper than she intended. "What's the matter, Jasmine, think I'm too much of a street punk to have earned a Bachelor's?" Jasmine winced, realizing that her question had come off like an insult. "No, April, I don't think you're a punk. I was just surprised, that's all. For some reason, I just pictured you knowing what career you wanted from the word go, and then getting it." "I did. I just didn't get it, so I found something else. That's life," she said with a shrug. From the way April said it, Jasmine got the impression that April had suffered other disappointments, some of which had really stung. She wanted to know more but, not wanting to anger her further, tried to steer things into a safer subject. "A writing major, huh. Did you have a double major?" "No. What made you think that?" "Well, you're really good with computers so, I just figured you probably had a double major." April saw that, while Jasmine really was interested, she had carefully worded her answer in an attempt to mollify her. She studied Jasmine, unknowingly cocking her head a little as she considered the woman across from her. Jasmine had to smile. The way April was holding her head made her think of Sassy, the golden retriever she and Jade had when they were little girls. April finally decided to answer Jasmine. "English Writing was my only major. I minored in U.S. History, Computer Science and Art History." "Wow! I'm impressed, cher. You're a little bit of a book worm, aren't you?" "I live for books. Books and music. Now how about you show me those computer entries you mentioned a few minutes ago." April was curious about the accounting entries, but she also wanted to steer Jasmine away from her personal questions before she started to dig too deep. ## Hours later, April head the noise associated with a relaxed, mass exiting of people. Quitting time. Seeing that it was five o'clock, she suggested to Jasmine that they back up their work and head out. "We can finish this at your house." "You're coming home with me?" "Yeah," April said in a kind of exaggerated voice. "What, you think bodyguards clock out at five like everyone else? I hate to break it to you, angel, but it's a 24/7 kind of job," she said with a teasing grin. Returning the smile, Jasmine got up and started gathering their papers. She liked the way April had just called her angel. They had spent the rest of the day going over the accounting logs. It didn't take long before they had eased into a kind of rhythm, and Jasmine had found that she really enjoyed working with April. They just kind of clicked. With that thought, Jasmine's mind jumped back to this morning and the kisses they had shared. Oh yeah. We click all right. April saw the cat like smile on Jasmine's face and paused in the middle of packing up her laptop. "What's up with you," April asked teasingly. Jasmine's head shot up like a little kid caught sneaking something. "What?" April laughed at Jasmine's "caught with her hand in the cookie jar" behavior. "What's with the feline grin, angel?" Man, she could really get used to hearing that endearment, Jasmine thought. She turned coy though, realizing April was watching her. "No grin, cher, I'm just happy to be heading home. I don't know about you, but I could really use a change of clothes and a glass of wine." That said, Jasmine hurried towards the door, before April saw through that too. Shaking her head in amusement, April gathered up her things and followed Jasmine out the door. ## Jasmine had driven April to her apartment to pick up some clothes, since she would be spending the night at Jade and Jasmine's place. Then they headed for the home the sisters shared. The drive there took longer than April expected. When she saw they were well past the city limits, she questioned Jasmine as to where, exactly, they were headed. Jasmine had just smiled and told her to be patient. Ten minutes later, Jasmine steered the car through an open, wrought iron gate that was covered in crawling vines. Working their way up the drive, April gasped as the house came into view. It held a striking resemblance to Tara, from "Gone With the Wind", only slightly smaller. "No wonder you and Jade live together. Each of you could take over a half of the house and never know the other one was home!" Jasmine laughed. She had been worried that April would see the sprawling plantation house and decide she and Jade were a couple of first class snobs, but April stared at the house in a kind of awed trance, seemingly fascinated with it. "You like, cher?" "I love! God, this is the real thing, isn't it?" "The real what, cher?" "An honest to God southern plantation." "Yes, it is. Our family built the place shortly before the Civil War. They grew cotton here back then. You know much about the war?" "I told you I minored in U.S. History, right? Well, the Civil War was what I focused on. My mother's family hailed from down south. My mom pretty much grew up in Pittsburgh, but she wasn't born there. I'm a first generation Yankee on her side of the family. I was told I'm suppose to have a great-great-great grandfather, or something like that, who fought for the Confederates." Jasmine gave April a look of surprise, and then smiled at her. "I knew there was a reason I liked you, cher." Now it was April's turn to look a bit shocked. "You know, until this morning, I thought you hated my guts." Jasmine gasped. "God no!" She let out a sigh as it dawned on her just how harsh she had been with April when they first met. "I'm sorry, April. I was upset at the idea that Uncle John hired you because he didn't trust me to handle things. I took it out on you and I shouldn't have. Accept my apology?" April felt herself relax a little, happy at the turn in Jasmine's attitude towards her. "Accepted. Now how about that wine you mentioned?" Smiling, Jasmine reached for April's hand and headed into the house. ## Jade watched as April helped Jasmine wash the dinner dishes. They had come into the house earlier holding hands. Now they were laughing and joking together. Jade's eyes narrowed with suspicion. That's fine, she thought. April claimed she was going to bed right after dinner. Ok by me, Jade thought. She'll go to bed alright, she just won't be falling asleep. Smirking at her own joke, Jade headed up to her room to set her plan in motion. ## April helped Jasmine put the last of the dishes away, then headed upstairs to turn in for the night. She got a little lost in the maze of hallways and doors, but finally found her room. Walking in, she pushed the door shut behind her and sat down on the edge of the bed. She pulled off her boots, socks and pulled her shirt off. Then she sank back on to the bed, sighing at the feel of the soft mattress giving under her weight. God, but she was tired! Laying there, her mind started to drift back to what had happened in the alley this morning. She felt her body rev up a little at the memory of having Jasmine pinned against her, the way her cute little ass felt in the palm of her hand, their tongues warring. A soft knock at the door had her jumping up. She surprised herself at how quickly she crossed the room to answer the door. She swung it open, finding Jade leaning against the doorway, her robe hanging open. What was under the robe was Jade, in a pair of stockings, garter belt and nothing else. April sucked in a breath. Jade tapped down her frown, not liking the slight hint of disappointment in April's face when she opened the door. Doesn't matter. In a few more minutes, April won't even remember Jasmine's name. "Evening, cher. Mind if I come in?" But Jade didn't wait for an answer, and was across the room before she even finished speaking. April felt a moments' irritation. 'Chill out,' she thought to herself. Jade doesn't know what happened with Jasmine. She has no reason not to assume that I'm sitting up here waiting for her. Now's the time to nip this in the bud, before someone gets hurt. "Hi, Jade. Can we talk for a minute?" "No, cher. Talking is the last thing I have in mine." With that, Jade let the robe slide down her arms. Then she tossed it at April. April gulped down a breath, reaching out to catch the robe before it hit her in the face. She started to open her mouth to speak, but before she could form a word, Jade had her tongue down her throat, her hands roaming all over her body. "Mmmmmmm," was all April could get out. Even that was muffled. Jade's hands slipped down April's back, diving right inside her jeans and panties to cup her ass. She started kneading the flesh while she pushed a knee between April's legs, pressing her thigh up against April's mound, never breaking the kiss. All thought fled out the door when one of Jade's fingers pushed between her ass cheeks to brush over her rosebud. She jerked at the touch, which forced her tighter against Jade's silk covered thigh, her hands automatically reaching up to frame Jade's face. 'Oh yeah. This is working just fine,' Jade thought. Without pulling her hands out of April's panties, she slid one around to her pussy. She starting flicking April's clit with one hand, while teasing around her rosebud with the other. "Shit, Jade!" April jerked, caught between Jade's hands. "Wound a little tight, aren't you, cher? Wet too. You've been waiting for me all day, haven't you, baby?" Not giving April time to answer, she pulled her hands free and pushed April onto the bed. She quickly unsnapped April's jeans and, grabbing the jeans and panties together, yanked them down and off. She leaped on top of April and began to finger fuck her while she sucked on her tongue. April felt her hips begin to buck against Jade in earnest. Lord, she didn't realize just how close she was to the edge. Now that her pussy was getting all this attention, she could fell an orgasm quickly building. Sensing April was close to cumming, Jade pulled her fingers out of April's wet channel and, sitting up a little, urged April further on to the bed. She helped her out of her bra and sucked one breast into her mouth, teasing the nipple with her tongue. Jade used her other hand to pinch and roll the other nipple between her finger and thumb. Then she stopped, turning around so that she and April were now in the 69 position. Jade looked back over her shoulder at April. "I know you're tired, cher, so I'll let you have the bottom," she said with a wink. April's laughter was cut short with a gasp, when she felt Jade hook an arm under her leg, then use it to keep April's leg pushed back towards her chest. Jade's head descended down to her wet heat. Her tongue began tracing a line from April's clit, all the way down to her rose bud, Jade pushing just the tip of her tongue down between April's pussy lips as she went. April's hips bucked, lifting up off the bed, but not getting very far. Jade was using her weight to push April's body into the mattress. Deciding she needed to play catch up, she gripped Jade's hips and shifted her into position. April slid her lips down over Jade's clit and began gently sucking, slowly increasing the pressure, occasionally flicking the little nub with her tongue. Jade moaned against April's lips, feeling April getting into the moment. Jade smiled against April's pussy. She pulled her head back a little and used two fingers to dip in and scoop up some precious girl honey. Then she pushed those fingers down between April's ass cheeks and began spreading cum on her rosebud. Again, April's hips bucked in response. She released Jade's clit and started tracing the inside of Jade's labia with her tongue, getting closer and closer to her love hole with each pass. Jade pulled her fingers away from April's rosebud, and started sucking on her middle finger with her mouth. Once she felt sure the finger was good and wet, she bent down and, while teasing April's pussy with her tongue, slowly working her finger into her bud. "Aaaaaaah," April moaned. The feel of Jade's finger pushing through the tight little ring was really making her temperature spike. She pushed her tongue into Jade's soaking wet channel as far as it would go. When she felt Jade's hips jerk, she started working her tongue in and out, never pulling completely out. She'd stop just at the tip; wait a few seconds, then push back in with one quick stroke. Jade starting working her finger in and out of April's ass with quicker strokes, swirling her tongue inside April's love channel. She felt a moan rip from her throat as April's tongue picked up speed. April moaned as she tongue fucked Jade's glistening pussy. She started to tremble as Jade's finger and tongue, once again, picked up speed, her lower body jerking, trying to get more of Jade's tongue and finger at the same time. She could feel the pressure building, becoming almost painful. She reached around to rub Jade's clit, pushing down on it. Jade knew April was only seconds away, so she started pounding her finger into April's ass, her tongue licking and pushing inside her vagina. She felt April's voice vibrating against her pussy, causing her to tremble. Suddenly, April couldn't breath. Ripping her mouth away from Jade's pussy, she slid her hand down from Jade's clit and pushed three fingers inside to replace her tongue. Gasping for air, she felt a scream tear from her throat as her body exploded, her hips pounding against Jade's face. At the same time, Jade's pussy began to piston up and down on her fingers, her vaginal muscles clamping down. Jade pulled her mouth away from April's pussy, leaving only her finger hammering away inside her. They both began to scream and moan, their bodies slapping together. All of a sudden, April saw stars, then nothing at all. ## She woke the next morning to the sound of zydeco music blasting in her ear. Fumbling for the snooze button, she pulled herself into a sitting position. Leaning against the headboard, she looked around, noticing Jade was gone. Instead, there was a rose laying on the pillow beside her. Smiling, she picked it up, held it to her face and inhaled. Mmmmm, she loved the smell of roses. They were her favorite flower. She bounced out of bed feeling pretty damn good, considering it was six in the morning. Grabbing fresh underwear and a new pair of jeans, she headed for the shower. ## Downstairs, Jade stood in the kitchen doorway, leaning against the door jam, watching Jasmine make breakfast. "Since when do you cook at this hour, baby girl?" Jasmine glanced up, seeing Jade watching her with suspicious eyes. "I don't know. Just felt like cooking this morning, I guess," Jasmine said with a shrug. Frowning, Jade walked over to the cabinet and pulled out two coffee mugs. "No thanks, Jade. I've already got a cup." "I see that, Jasmine. I'm going to take a cup upstairs to April." "She doesn't drink coffee. I've already got a glass of orange juice poured for her. That's what she prefers." Jade's eyes narrowed, wondering how in the hell Jasmine knew that. Reaching for the glass she said, "Fine. I'll just take that up to her instead." Jasmine snatched the glass up before Jade could grab it. "I'm on my way with it now," and she took off for the steps. Jade smelled the eggs burning and jerked the skillet off the burner with one hand, turning it off with the other. Then she turned and rushed up the steps, hurrying after Jasmine. She damn well intended to find out why Jasmine, who never ate anything more complicated than a muffin for breakfast, was suddenly up before six, cooking for April. ## April walked out of the bathroom, dressed only in her underwear and jeans, toweling her hair dry and singing along to Alannah Myles's "Black Velvet". She loved to burn her own CD's and had brought a few with her. She'd listen to music from dawn to dusk everyday, if she could. The song ended, and Godsmack's "Voodoo" started up. April started dancing to the music while she laid a couple of shirts on the bed, trying to decide what to wear. God, I love this song, she thought. It's just so....so primal. The shirts quickly forgotten, April hooked her arms over her head and began swaying to the music, loving the sensual, erotic drumbeat. "Shit!" She jerked to a halt, finding Jade and Jasmine standing in her doorway. Both sisters had a hungry look in their eyes, thoroughly enjoying April's little show. "Sorry, cher," Jasmine purred. "You didn't answer my knock, so I opened the door. I was just checking to see if you were ok." "She looks pretty fine to me," Jade added, her voice husky. "Thanks. I'll be down in a minute." Embarrassed, April quickly shut the door on both women, grabbing the glass of orange juice Jasmine shoved at her as she shut the door. Once it was closed, she turned and sagged against it, sliding down until she sat on the floor. "Shit!" ## In the hallway, Jasmine frowned at the door, then started back for the kitchen. She had only taken a few steps when Jade's hand locked around her arm, pulling her back around, none too gently. "What the hell do you think you're doing, baby girl," Jade demanded. "What?" "Don't play innocent with me, Jasmine. What do you think you're doing making April breakfast and running up here with orange juice for her?" Jade glared at her sister. "You puttin' the moves on my girl, cher?" Jade asked, her accent thickening as her temper spiked. "No! You're the one who told me to be nice to her, so I thought I'd make her breakfast," Jasmine flung back. "Then run through McDonalds and buy her a sandwich while she guards your precious little ass all the way to work," Jade snapped. "I say her first, cher," she added in a warning tone. "No, actually cher, I saw her first," Jasmine returned snidely, feeling her temper rise. Cajun Spice Ch. 04 "Like hell!" "I literally ran into her on the elevator the day she arrived, so yes, I saw her first," Jasmine's voice defensive. Jade's eyes narrowed as she glared at her sister. "Back off, Jasmine. She's taken," her voice a serious warning. Then she pushed past her sister and headed for the stairs. Jasmine watched her sister stalk off down the hallway. "Yes, she is," Jasmine said under her breath, her voice possessive. Jade never heard her. Cajun Spice Ch. 05 April bounced down the steps, inhaling the smell of eggs that was drifting out of the kitchen. She stopped on the last step, eyeing the overnight bag that was lying on the floor. She gave a little sigh, then leaped off the step and swung into the kitchen. Jasmine looked up from the omelet she was making, a little startled from April's sudden appearance. She smiled, realizing that this was the first time she'd seen April looking truly rested. Jasmine felt a little thrill course through her body and settle in her pussy. Tearing her gaze away, she refocused on her cooking. April passed behind her on her way to the refrigerator, and Jasmine felt the tingle between her legs increase. Letting out a shaky breath, she scooped up the omelet and laid it on a plate, handing it to April as she passed her again, on her way to the kitchen table. "Thanks," April said, giving Jasmine a smile as she accepted the plate. She could get use to this, she thought, Jasmine making her breakfast every morning. Just then, memories of last night with Jade popped into her mind and, suddenly feeling guilty, settled into a chair at the table. Shortly after, Jasmine walked over, her own breakfast in hand, and sat down across from April. Noticing that April was suddenly giving her plate way too much attention, Jasmine decided to push her buttons a little. Taking a bite of her own omelet, Jasmine slipped her foot out of her shoe and let it brush against April's leg. April's head jerked up. Jasmine felt a grin tugging at the corners of her mouth, as she watched a mixture of suspicion and heat spread across April's face. "You know, if you were sitting a little closer, I could slide my foot up the inside of your leg." Jasmine's voice soft and husky, as she watched the spark ignite in April's eyes, and pushed a little more. "I'd let my foot settle in between your legs, maybe give your clit a little massage. I know for a fact, that the feeling of the fly of your jeans rubbing against it is a real turn on." Jasmine gave April a wicked grin, feeling triumphant when she realized that April's mind was flashing back to what happened in the alley, same as hers. April just about chocked on her food. Jasmine was gleaming at her like a cat that had its prey cornered. She finally forced her food down her throat and desperately tried thinking of a safe subject she could switch to. "What's with the overnight bag?" Jasmine gave a knowing laugh. "It's Friday, cher. The Tequila Club never misses a Friday night at the Cat House. My party clothes are in the bag." "Cat House?" "That's what my friends and I call The Kitty Club. It's kind of an inside joke." April frowned, realizing Jasmine intended to go out tonight, heedless of the fact that she had a thief stalking her. "Oh well, it was nice while it lasted," April thought, knowing that she and Jasmine were about to have a major argument. "That's really not a good idea, Jasmine, or are you forgetting that we still don't know who your thief is?" "I'm not forgetting, but he's a thief, a coward sneaking around snatching money out of the cookie jar. I seriously doubt he'll show up at a lesbian club. He'll stick out like a swore thumb." "True, if it's a man. But he could also wait outside and attack you as you're coming out, or walking to the parking lot. That lot's not very well lit. No, too many risks. You're going straight home after work, Jasmine," April said, her voice firm. She watched Jasmine's temper spike. Here we go. Jasmine felt a few, very choice words, begin to well up in her throat, but watching April bracing herself for a verbal punch, she felt the words die in her throat. She let out a sigh and picked at her omelet. This is how she screwed up in the first place, letting her temper take the lead. And while she was in April's face, arguing, trying to let the P.I. know she wouldn't be pushed around, Jade had slipped into April's bed. Deciding it was time to try something else, she met April's gaze. "Ok. I realize trying to guard someone in a crowded nightclub isn't the ideal situation, but really, what harm could it do? Like I said, this guy will stick out like a sore thumb in a lesbian club. Besides, you'll be with me, and I know you'll get me home safe." April had sat, watching Jasmine intently as the fiery beauty fought for control of her temper. April swore she could see the wheels turning inside that pretty little head, as Jasmine mapped out a new plan of attack. But that last sentence had really struck her, because she could tell by the look in Jasmine's eye that she had meant it. She truly did have complete faith that April could protect her, no matter what. She felt her heart leap at the idea that Jasmine trusted her that much. Then her mind started running through all the ways tonight could go wrong, all the ways she'd seen a situation spiral out of control, regardless of how many precautions she had taken. Jasmine watched as countless emotions rolled through April's eyes. She saw the sadness creep in, the regret, and knew she was about to lose her case. Trying for the preverbal Hail Mary, Jasmine spoke up. "Just for a little while, cher," she pleaded. "It's been a rough week and I just want to relax with my friends for a bit. Please." April was about to put her foot down, tell Jasmine that there was no way in hell she was letting her go to a nightclub tonight, but she felt her resolve crumble at the sound of Jasmine's voice. "Oh hell! Ok. But just for a little while. The club starts to get too packed; I'm taking you home. Without an argument," April quickly added, her voice stern. Sensing she'd won, Jasmine flashed April her most brilliant smile. "Agreed. Thank you, cher." April let out a sigh, starting to feel the pinch. Here she was, butting her head against wall after wall, still without a single thread to pull in terms of finding her thief, but she was having some of the best sex of her life with Jade, and falling in love with Jasmine. "God, but I'm screwed," she thought with a groan. ## April paced the lobby of Dupree Enterprises. She had called her friend Mike, the computer ace, and asked him if he could recommend anyone he might know in this area. She wanted a pro to go over Jade and Jasmine's computers, in case she missed something. Mike had called his friend Mason, a fellow computer geek who lived in the area. Mike had promised April that Mason would meet her in the lobby at 10 a.m., but so far, the guy was nowhere to be seen, and it was now 10:30. Suddenly, April spotted a teenager making a beeline for her. He was tall, at least six feet, lean and very handsome. "I'll bet the girls in his high school are lined up down the block for this guy," she thought to herself. But that still didn't explain why the kid was headed her way. Finally, the young man stopped in front of her, stuck out his hand, and introduced himself as Mason, apologizing for being late because he missed the bus. "Oh shit! Mike didn't tell me he was sending a baby." She was really aggravated. Things were starting to escalate and she didn't have time to baby sit some wet behind the ears kid. Mason stiffened, taking offense at April's outburst. "Most babies are a hell of a lot shorter than I am, ma'am," the kid shot back, his accent thick. April had to contain her smirk. "Ok," she thought, "so the kid's got a spine." "Mike tells me that there's very little you don't know about computers. Was he lying, or were you bullshitting him?" "Neither. I'm the best. I'm sorry if you're too old and jaded to believe that." Balls too, apparently. "All right, baby boy, I'll give you a shot. But you better be able to back it up. I don't have time to spare here." That said, she headed for the elevators, motioning Mason to follow her. While they stood and waited for a set of doors to open, April regarded him with narrowed eyes, "You're not skipping school, or anything, are you?" "It's summer, ma'am," Mason replied, sarcasm dripping from every word. April could tell from his tone that his temper was on a short leash. This kid might just do after all. Twenty minutes later, she had Mason set up in Jasmine's office and had already shown him how to find Jade's. Jasmine had joined them, and was now explaining to Mason how the company's computerized accounting system worked. April figured while he was at it, she'd have him check out the accounting entries. Maybe he could tell if someone had overridden, or altered, the initials of the person who had made them. Moments later, she and Jasmine were heading back to John's office. "Is he even old enough to shave?" Jasmine asked, glancing back at Mason, who they could see slurping on a coke while he worked the keyboard, one handed. "He isn't old enough to have been born yet, but he's all I've got. Besides, I really do trust Mike, so if this is who he sent, then I've gotta believe he really is that good." Shaking her head, she placed her hand at the small of Jasmine's back, gently steering her back towards John's office. ## Hours later, April and Jasmine had joined the sisters' friends at The Kitty Club. Lisa and Jade had gotten there early, and April had been glad to see that Lisa had made the women get a set of tables against the wall. They were still in their usual spot, just farther back, away from the main line of traffic. This way, Lisa and April could sit with their backs to the wall and have a good visual of the entire club. April was nursing a coke when Jasmine got up and announced she was going dancing. "No, you're not. Sit down, Jasmine. I can't watch you on the dance floor, it's too crowded." "Oh, come one. Pleeeeese? Listen, if you stand near the fence on this side, I can dance right on the other side, right near the entrance to the dance floor. That way, if something happens, all you have to do is reach around the edge of the fence and I'll be right there. Pleeeeese," Jasmine begged like a little kid. April and Lisa exchanged a look. "She seems to have thought this through," Lisa said, her eyes going back and forth between Jasmine and April. "She always does," April said with a sigh. She looked up and studied the woman standing in front of her. Jasmine was giving her that pleading look with her eyes, her full, red lips in a little pout. She was wearing a black bustier and skin hugging leather pants. "One song, Jasmine, then your ass is right back in that chair. For the night," she added. Having won again, Jasmine just gave April one of her gleeful little smiles and reached out to take April's hand. April let Jasmine lead her to the dance floor. She stopped at the edge of the fence and pointed to the spot of dance floor right in front of her, on the other side of the fence. Jasmine waved a hand at the DJ and nodded her head yes. "What the hell is she up to," April wondered. Suddenly, she heard the first few strains of Luscious Jackson's "Under Your Skin". The little brat had gone through her things! This was one of the songs on the CD she had burned and brought with her, the one that she was playing this morning. Her eyes narrowed on Jasmine, who just gave her a sassy grin and started swaying to the music. It didn't take long before April realized that Jasmine was dancing for her, and she felt her blood begin to thicken, her heart pound. She was fascinated, even while that little voice in her head kept screaming that she should be watching the crowd, not drooling over Jasmine. She just couldn't take her eyes off of her. April tried to swallow the lump in her throat as Jasmine's lithe body swayed seductively to the music. Finally, it was over. Jasmine stepped around the edge of the fencing, keeping her promise to go back to their table after one dance. April grabbed Jasmine's arm, a little more forcefully than she would have normally, and held Jasmine to her side as she escorted her back to her chair. April took her own seat, she and Jasmine staring at each other across the table. April never noticed the glare they were receiving from Jade. About an hour later, the waitress was bringing a second round of tequila shots, when Jasmine reached over and laid her hand on April's arm. "Take me home, cher, please." At first, April thought it was a come on, then she saw the sick look on Jasmine's face. Figuring Jasmine really didn't feel well; April nodded her head in agreement, and walked around to help Jasmine out of her chair. They said goodbye to everyone, Jasmine explaining to them that she didn't feel good, and headed for the parking lot. They stopped beside Jasmine's car. "Why don't you give me the keys and I'll drive home," April suggested, but Jasmine just laughed and shook her head no. "I thought you were sick, angel," April said, getting suspicious of Jasmine's sudden recovery. "No. I just couldn't take any more of Jade's evil eye. It was putting a damper on things." April was surprised. She hadn't noticed anything. Then she quickly pushed thoughts of Jade aside and gave Jasmine a sly grin. "Well, we should still make it look good. You know, just in case anyone is standing around out front, watching." Again, she motioned for the keys. Jasmine fished the keys out of her purse and dangled them in front of April's face. April had been dying to drive her car, ever since she had pulled it out of the garage this morning. Jasmine had chosen to drive her classic today. It was a 1964 ½ Ford Mustang Convertible, painted candy apple red. April's jaw had hit the ground when Jasmine eased the car out of the garage this morning. She'd practically purred the whole way to work. Secretly, Jasmine was pleased that April liked her car so much. "Well I don't know, cher. You know, this car's worth a fortune and you're not covered under my policy, should anything happen on the way home. I don't think I can risk it." Jasmine watched the disappointment spread across April's face. "Oh. Ok," she mumbled and started to walk towards the other side of the car. Jasmine reached out a hand to stop her. "I could be persuaded to change my mind though. You know, if I had a good reason to." April's eyes narrowed suspiciously on Jasmine's face at the sound of the red head's teasing tone. Jasmine wanted something, and April just knew she wouldn't like it. Well, she'd probably like it; it'd just be a bad idea. April crossed her arms over her chest. "Ok, spill. What do you want in exchange for letting me drive," April's voice a mix of resignation and suspicion. "Relax, cher. I'm not asking for anything you can't deliver. Just promise me you'll do a few shots with me when we get home. Before you shuffle me off to bed." April had a funny feeling there was something Jasmine was leaving out, but she really wanted to drive this car. She found herself conceding, once again, and the thought occurred to her that she was doing a lot of that since meeting the Cajun beauty. "Fine. It's a deal. Now hand over the keys, angel," April said with a growl. Delighted to have won again, Jasmine tossed April the keys and ran around to jump into the passenger's side. ## An hour later, they pulled up in front of the house. The drive took a little longer than usual, since Jasmine had let April take the car onto the freeway, so she could open it up a little. Jasmine had loved watching the joy spread over April's face as she cruised around New Orleans in the old classic. Climbing out of the car, Jasmine held out a hand and led April into the house. Jasmine didn't bother to turn on any lights and, grabbing a bottle of tequila and a couple of shot glasses out of the bar in the parlor, she dragged April with her into the kitchen. She rummaged around in the refrigerator for some lemons and told April to grab the saltshaker from the kitchen table. The two women met in the middle, and Jasmine dumped everything on the counter top. Pouring a shot, she tucked the glass between her breasts and carefully turned to face April. There was a reason she had decided to wear a bustier tonight. April leaned a hip against the counter and stood considering Jasmine for a minute. She knew damn well what Jasmine had planned. Body shots. April decided to give Jasmine a run for her money. She shook her head in a combination of disappointment and amusement. "I'll admit, you rebs know how to drink, but you don't have a clue how to do a proper body shot." Jasmine felt a moment's disappointment, and then her temper soared, her Southern pride prickling at the insult. It never occurred to her that she was walking right into April's trap. "Fine, cher. Since you seem to think you Yanks now it all, why don't you just show me what I'm missing." Jasmine could hear the prissiness in her voice, but didn't care. No self respecting Southerner would take a snide comment like that, from a Yankee yet, without a challenge. April's eyes gleamed in triumph and a wicked grin spread across her face. She gave Jasmine's chest a pointed look. "Well, first angel, you're going to have to loose the shirt." Jasmine just stared at first, the demand taking her by surprise. Then she noticed the look on April's face. She gulped down air, realizing that she might be in over her head. But then her pride took over, and Jasmine glared defiantly at April as she slammed the shot down on the counter and worked herself out of the bustier. Now she was naked from the waist up. She felt a combination of excitement and fear jolt through her body at the way April was staring at her breasts. April had guessed, from their encounter in the alley, that Jasmine had a splendid chest. But now, seeing the 36C breasts free from their restraints, free for her to touch and taste, she felt her heart beat kick up a notch. Privately, she hoped she could stay in control. Sliding up to Jasmine, until they were barely a breath apart, April stared into her eyes. Satisfied that Jasmine was willing, she gripped Jasmine's hips and hoisted her up onto the counter top. Jasmine yelped, surprised at suddenly being lifted into the air. But then April maneuvered to stand between her legs, leaning against the counter, and pulled Jasmine tight against her. On instinct, Jasmine wrapped her legs around April's waist. April chuckled as she felt Jasmine's legs clamping down around her. This was going to be fun. She reached out for the shot glass, sliding it within reach. She looked Jasmine dead in the eye, held her questioning look for a moment, then lowered her head and slowly eased her mouth over Jasmine's breast, engulfing it. April began lathering the ample globe with her tongue, getting the skin good and wet. Then she slowly pulled back, Jasmine's nipple making a little popping sound as it came free of her mouth. Her tongue darted out to flick the nipple. Jasmine hissed in a breath, her nails digging into April's shoulders. April just stood there, grinning like a cat, shaking salt all over Jasmine's breast. She dipped her head back down and licked the salt off, taking her time. Jasmine moaned, the sound coming from deep within. April's mouth on her breast was sweet torture and Jasmine tightened her hold on the back of April's head. April let her lips skim over Jasmine's breast as she pulled back. Jasmine softly protested as those exquisite lips disappeared. A chill shuddered through her as she felt the cool air of the room on her wet skin. Next, April gave Jasmine's shoulders a little push, indicating that she wanted Jasmine to lie on her back on the counter. Jasmine did what she wanted, then gasped as she felt the tequila being poured into her belly button. April leaned over and sucked the liquor out, using her tongue to lap at the sides of Jasmine's navel, not missing a drop. Then April yanked Jasmine back into a sitting position. Picking up the lemon wedge, she squeezed it gently, so a little juice spilled down over Jasmine's other breast, then lifted the wedge to Jasmine's lips. Cajun Spice Ch. 05 Taking the hint, Jasmine took the tip of the wedge into her mouth, clamping down on it with her teeth to hold it in place. She watched, mesmerized, as April's mouth came towards her, lowering slowly over the other half of the lemon. Their lips touched, then April eased her head back, sucking the lemon as she went. April then lowered her head to Jasmine's breast and began licking the drops of lemon off of it. Jasmine sank her fingers deeper into April's hair, gripping her head tight against her chest and let loose with a moan. Oh God, she could feel her juices soaking her panties. April pulled herself free of Jasmine's grip and stood, watching the desire dance in Jasmine's eyes, felt the hammering of her own heart. She could smell Jasmine's scent, knew she was wet and ready, for her. Jasmine stared right back, her eyes an open invitation. April stepped back, guilt seeping in, and leaned against the opposite counter. She couldn't do this. She wanted to, even needed to, but she couldn't, not without having ended things with Jade first. It just wasn't right. She hung her head, feeling like a complete shit. Jasmine didn't know what to think. Her body was ablaze with need, her panties so wet she could feel them sticking against her pussy. She just couldn't figure out why April had stopped. Finally, after the longest moment in Jasmine's life, April raised her head and met her eyes again. "I slept with Jade last night," April blurted out. She just didn't know any other way to say it. She only knew she couldn't make love to Jasmine without laying all her cards on the table, without Jasmine knowing the whole truth. Jasmine was in shock. Then, suddenly realizing that April's good mood this morning was because she had spent the night with her sister, her temper snapped. Feeling betrayed, she leaped off the counter and slapped April right across the face. Jasmine's quick move took April by surprise. All of a sudden, her head jerked hard to one side, from the force of Jasmine's hand slamming against her cheek. The sound of flesh smacking flesh, vibrated through the moonlit kitchen. "You bitch! What the hell were you trying to pull?" Jasmine's eyes blazed with anger. "Were you planning on going home and telling everyone just how easy, The Big Easy really is? Is that it? You wanted to be able to go home and brag to your friends about how you banged a pair of sisters while you were down here?" Jasmine was screaming, pure fury coursing through her body, her eyes almost blind with it. She had trusted this woman, with her body, her heart, her life. Jasmine turned on her heels and ran out of the room, afraid of what she might do next. "Wait! Jasmine, don't go! Just let me explain," April shouted at Jasmine as she raced after her, chasing her up the steps and all the way to Jasmine's room. Jasmine lunged into her bedroom and slammed the door in April's face. She pounded on the door for what felt like hours, but Jasmine never opened it. She didn't even bother to yell at her through the door. Giving up, not knowing what else to do, April just dragged herself towards the other side of the house. Finding Lisa's room, she pulled out one of the shotguns Lisa had brought and tucked away in the closet. Making sure it was locked and loaded, she went back downstairs, sank into a chair, and prepared to keep watch for the night. Cajun Spice Ch. 06 The grandfather clock in the hall struck two. April sat in the dark, lost in her own thoughts. Jade and Lisa had come a few hours ago. Jade had seen April in the parlor and would have joined her, if April hadn’t waved her off. For once, she needed to do her job and not get distracted by the sisters, so she had told Jade to go to bed, which she reluctantly did. The rest of the night, April sat in a high back chair, close enough to the doorway to let her see the length of the hall and the front door. All night, her mind replayed the events of the last few days, each minute she had spent with the sisters, trying to figure out where, exactly, she had screwed up. Sensing movement, she forced her thoughts back to the present. There stood Jasmine, just a few feet from her chair, wearing a knee length silk, emerald green robe. She’d swear it was the most beautiful thing she’d ever seen. Jasmine stood, watching the shock leap into April’s face. Ever since their fight earlier, she had sat in her room and stewed. Her mind reliving ever second she had spent with April, every touch, every word. When April admitted earlier to sleeping with Jade last night, Jasmine had felt betrayed. Oh, she knew they had spent the night together, that first evening, but she thought that that had been the end of it. It had come as quite a shock to realize that April’s good mood this morning had been due to Jade fucking her blind the night before. Jasmine had spent hours mulling over her time with April. Slowly, as the night wore on, she began to think that, even though April was sleeping with Jade, it was her that April really wanted. She just knew it. She had tried to go to bed, but finally, somewhere around one, she admitted to herself that she wasn’t going to get any sleep tonight. She had decided to put her theory to the test. She had taken a shower, put on body spray and changed into her favorite negligee. April knew she should say something. At least tell Jasmine to go back to her room, but she just sat, frozen, like a deer caught in a pair of headlights, staring at Jasmine. Her hands were forming a death grip on the arms of the chair. Her heart was hammering in her chest. Jasmine saw the heat, the desire in April’s eyes. Slowly, she reached over to the belt on her robe. Untying it, she eased the robe off her shoulders, letting it slide down her body. April watched the robe fall into a pool at Jasmine’s feet. She suddenly felt so wired. She was riveted, afraid to move, afraid Jasmine would leave. For the first time all night, her mind was a complete blank. She let her eyes roam up and down the length of Jasmine’s body, noticing how the nightgown clung to every curve. “Make love to me, please,” Jasmine whispered, her voice husky with desire. Every joint seemed to ache as April pushed herself out of the chair. She just stood for a minute, drinking in the sight before her. Slowly, she inched closer, until she was almost toe-to-toe with Jasmine. She reached out a hand and let it hover just above Jasmine’s breasts, and then slowly lowered it, running the tips of her fingers down Jasmine’s body. It was almost as if she was making sure Jasmine was real. Jasmine sucked in a breath at April’s feathery touch. God, how she wanted this woman! At this point, her heart was ricocheting around inside her rib cage. April stepped a little closer. She ran her hands down the side of Jasmine’s body. Reaching her hips, April began pulling the gown up with her fingers, until she held the bottom half bunched in her hand. Shaking with need, she eased the gown up and over Jasmine’s head, until she stood in front of April wearing nothing more than a matching thong. April felt the growl emerge from deep in the back of her throat. Jasmine couldn’t stand it. If April didn’t do something soon, kiss her, touch her, something, she might just explode right here. April cupped the back of Jasmine’s head and eased in for a kiss. She just brushed her lips over Jasmine’s, but Jasmine could feel April’s body vibrating with need, even from that brief contact. April started to pull her head back, but just then, Jasmine’s tongue darted out to graze her lips, as if Jasmine was trying to pull her back. She went mad with need. Slamming her mouth against Jasmine’s, she pushed her tongue inside and just devoured her. Never breaking the kiss, she spun Jasmine around and backed her towards the chair. Jasmine felt her knees hit the edge of the chair and suddenly she was falling back into it. April sank to her knees on the floor, grabbed Jasmine’s thong at the hips, and yanked it off. She latched her hands onto Jasmine’s knees in a fierce grip, yanking them apart, exposing Jasmine’s neatly trimmed pussy. The fine mat of red hair was already drenched in Jasmine’s juices, her nether lips glistening in the moonlight that poured through the window. April dipped her head down to meet Jasmine’s sweet pussy, inhaled, and then began licking up every drop, keeping Jasmine’s legs spread as wide as the chair would allow. She drank her fill, and then began flicking Jasmine’s clit with her tongue. Jasmine’s hips bucked, trying to deepen the contact, but April jerked her head back, having none of it. A moan tore from Jasmine’s throat, her every nerve ending quivering. This teasing was almost cruel, April knowing full well that she was begging for release. Hearing Jasmine’s moans was like waving a red flag in front of a bull, spearing April on, making her desperate to push Jasmine to the very edge, and over. Her tongue began tracing circles around Jasmine’s swollen clit, the little nub standing at full attention. Then April laid her tongue flat against Jasmine’s clit, pressing hard against it, and she licked upwards, like licking an ice cream cone, but she never eased the pressure she was applying. Now it was Jasmine’s turn to clench the arms of the chair. She began to writher, not sure if she was trying to get closer to April’s tongue, or pull away, in an effort to ease the ache of pleasure/pain coursing through her body. Just then, April buried her tongue inside Jasmine’s pussy, shoving her face into Jasmine’s slit as far as it would go. She started twirling and jerking her tongue around in an effort to hit every inch of Jasmine’s channel. She still hadn’t released Jasmine’s knees, keeping them spread wide. Jasmine felt her legs start to spasm, her legs desperate with the natural need to wrap themselves around the source of her pleasure. But April wouldn’t give, keeping her spread eagle in the chair. She screamed as April’s tongue began to work itself furiously in and out of her tunnel. Her orgasm built to a fever pitch, then exploded, her body convulsing as wave after wave of aching pleasure poured through her. April felt Jasmine’s body explode, pushing her own need to dizzying heights. As Jasmine’s body started to settle, April refocused her attention on her clit. Still, she never released Jasmine’s knees. She latched her mouth onto Jasmine’s swollen clit and began to suck. Occasionally, she just held the nub clamped between her lips and jerked her head back and forth. Jasmine’s body was practically rocketing out of the chair. Her voice was a mix of screams and pleas, begging April to stop. She didn’t think she could take much more. All of a sudden, a light exploded behind her eyes, her body jerked upward, held for a split second, and then sank lifelessly into the chair. April looked up, watching as Jasmine passed out cold. Still on her knees, she leaned back until her butt hit the floor; then she scooted until she was laying flat on her back. She was wound so tight, her body was jerking as she lay on the floor, orgasms ripping through her even though Jasmine had yet to touch her. She folded her forearms over her face, sinking her fingers into her own hair, and just laid there, convulsing, praying her body would eventually calm down. A few minutes later, Jasmine began to resurface. Shaking her head to clear the cobwebs, she began to hear mewling, like an animal in pain. Looking down at the floor, she saw April laying there, trembling. Jasmine realized that April’s body was so tight with need; she was in pain, small orgasms tearing through her body. Jasmine quickly reached down and unfastened April’s jeans, tugging her jeans and panties until they were down around her knees. She stood up, almost fell over because her legs felt like jelly, and then finally managed to stand over April’s body, one foot between her legs and the other on the outside. Jasmine squatted down and wiggled, pulling April’s legs up, and finally got herself into position, so that they were pussy to pussy. Jasmine leaned back on her hands and, using her arms for leverage, began bucking against April. April screamed at the contact. Her nether lips and Jasmine’s sliding over and in between each other, their clits pushing against one another. Instinctively, she knew what Jasmine was trying to do, and began to help as much as she could, but she had very little control over her body at this point. Finally, her first real orgasm broke, and she screamed loud enough to wake the dead. Wave after wave continued to course through her and she fumbled to help Jasmine, her desire so painful at this point, she just wanted it over. Finally, she collapsed against the floor, her body throbbing, her chest heaving in a desperate attempt to suck in air. Jasmine leaned over her, feathering kisses all over her face and whispering in her ear. “It’s ok, cher, it’s ok. There now baby, just relax. Let your body relax.” Jasmine could hear her own voice beginning to quiver with panic. She’d never seen anyone have this intense of an experience. She was terrified April was going to have a heart attack, or something. Slowly, April began to get a grip on her body, struggling to get her breathing under control. Gradually, she felt herself calm down, her breathing even out. Jasmine slid off to her side and wrapped an arm around April’s waist, pulling her lover close against her, still whispering encouragements in her ear and gently spreading kisses over her face. “God damn you, baby girl! You just have to fucking have everything, don’t you!” Jasmine and April both jerked up at the sound of Jade’s voice. They both scrambled to stand up, fumbled, and finally Jasmine was on her feet. She hurried to put her robe on and turned to confront her sister. “Jade, I’m sorry, but I’m in love with her.” Jasmine felt horrible that her sister had found her and April like this, but she wasn’t going to back down either. “In love? Love, or lust, or is it just that you couldn’t let me having something good in my life. Everything has to be yours. It’s always about sweet, poor little traumatized Jasmine. I am so fucking sick and tired of everyone tripping over themselves to please you.” Jade was screaming by now, working herself into a rage. Jasmine was mystified as to where all this anger was coming from. Jade wasn’t making sense. “You’re right, I didn’t ask, but you didn’t say anything either. I just figured April was another conquest for you, a challenge, like all the others. It never occurred to me that you were in love with her.” April was still trying to stand up. Her whole body felt like it was boneless, her hands shaking so bad she was having a hard time getting a hold of her jeans, much less pulling them back up. Finally, she was able to sit on the edge of the chair and get her clothes back on. Just then, her cell phone started ringing. She fumbled with the phone, finally answering it, then couldn’t hear over the sisters’ voices. She managed to walk towards the back of the room, stuck her finger in her other ear, and shouted into the phone. “Hello? Hello?” The sisters kept fighting, paying no heed to April what so ever. Eventually, April heard Mason’s voice. She listened intently, then slammed the phone shut with a snap. Her temper was at full throttle now. The sisters were still at it. “How could you Jasmine? I love her,” Jade kept screaming. “The fuck you do,” April roared. Both sisters went still. April advanced on Jade, would have been on top of her in a few more steps if Jasmine hadn’t reached out and stopped her. “Go ahead, cher. You get caught with your pants down and suddenly I’m the bad guy,” Jade snapped at April. “If the shoe fits,” April growled. Jasmine could see April was shaking, as much with anger now, as she was from spent passion. Jasmine felt like everything had turned into some kind of Twilight Zone episode; only no one had bothered to tell her about it. April was still glaring up at Jade. “Now would be a good time, Jade.” “Good time for what, cher?” “A good time to tell your sister what happened.” Jade knew damn well what April was talking about, but decided to play dumb. “What happened is that you’ve been playing Jasmine and I off of each other.” “Bullshit!” April took a deep breath. She couldn’t let Jade twist this to her advantage. She turned slightly, so that she was addressing both women at the same time. “That was Mason on the phone, just now. I know who your thief is.” “My God! Who?” Jasmine demanded. April turned to look pointedly at Jade, her expression one of “now or never”. Jade finally took the hint. “Me, baby girl,” Jade answered Jasmine, sounding bored. “You!! What…..what…..why!?” Jasmine sputtered. April listened while Jade spewed at her sister. The two were six years apart, Jade being the oldest. Apparently, their mother had had a secret lover for years, a woman. One fateful summer afternoon, their farther had found out. He had come home in a blind rage and carrying a .38. He had found their mother and her lover in the kitchen, while the girls were swimming out back. Confronting his wife, the two engaged in a very ugly argument. Their mother’s lover had tried to intercede and he shot her. Their mother attacked him and he had shot her as well, finally turning the gun on himself. Jasmine, eight years old at the time, had silently witnessed the entire incident, hiding behind the counter. John had taken custody of the sisters and immediately sent them to a therapist. Jade, 14, began acting out, constantly in trouble, both at school and with the authorities. Unfortunately, Jade’s therapist had written off her behavior as mostly teenage rebellion, and their uncle hadn’t questioned it. Jade loved her sister, but had also begun harboring some resentment, due to the preferential treatment Jasmine always received from their uncle. Jade had spent the last year listening to their uncle rave about Jasmine, telling everyone how she was due to come home from college, with her Master’s degree in accounting, and lead the company into the future. Tired of coming in second, Jade decided to siphon some money from the company accounts, hide it, then sit back and watch Jasmine fall on her face. April watched as a myriad of emotions rolled across Jasmine’s face. She felt deflated. She couldn’t fix this for either one of them. They would have to work it out themselves. Right now, she was just another wedge between the two of them. Jasmine stared at Jade in total disbelief. Several moments passed, the house thick with tension, before she found her voice. “You could have destroyed us all, Jade. Do you really hate Uncle John and I that much?” “Oh, please,” Jade scoffed. “Always the drama queen, aren’t you, cher?” “She’s not being dramatic, Jade. Don’t you understand what could have happened? What could still happen.” Watching Jade, April could see that she wasn’t able to see past her grand plan of bringing Jasmine down a few notches. April walked up the steps until she stood just a few steps below Jade. “Jade, what do you think is going to happen when your stockholders find out half a million dollars has disappeared,” April asked, making every effort to keep her voice normal and even. “But it hasn’t. It’s sitting in a bank, downtown. All I have to do is transfer the money back and no one will ever know it was gone.” “If you can transfer it in time, if word hasn’t already leaked out about the embezzlement. Why do you think John hired me? If he had gone to the police, the story would have hit the media. Missing funds tend to make stockholders nervous. They get nervous, they start selling shares, like rats deserting a sinking ship.” April watched as her words finally started to sink in. She went up a few more steps, passing Jade. She turned around so that she was standing sideways on the staircase, keeping a close eye on Jade and Jasmine. Jade just stared, dumbfounded, at Jasmine. “Oh God, Jasmine! I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean…I didn’t think…” “No, you didn’t think at all, did you? You were so involved in making sure everyone saw me as a screw up, that you didn’t stop to think that you’re little scheme could destroy our family. Not to mention the countless families that depend on us for their incomes.” Jasmine felt fury and confusion pour through her. She couldn’t believe her sister, her own blood, could have been so short sighted, so self-absorbed. And she felt betrayed, hurt, that the sister she thought she was so close to, had hated her all these years. She ran up the steps, afraid that in one more minute, she’d do something she’d forever regret. April watched, helpless, as Jasmine disappeared up the steps. For the second time that night, she listed to the sound of Jasmine’s bedroom door slamming shut. Jade looked devastated, stunned, as the enormity of what she had done began to sink in. “Jade,” April said softly. Not getting a response she raised her voice. “Jade!” She watched as Jade slowly came out of her trance, finally noticing April standing in front of her. “Jade, go to bed. We have to talk to John in just a few short hours. You need some sleep.” Jade absently nodded her head and started up the steps. April watched her disappear around the corner. A movement near the bottom of the steps caught her eye and she turned her head in time to see Lisa step out of the parlor, holding two tumblers of bourbon. April sank down on a step as Lisa came up to join her, the bodyguard handing her a glass as she sat down beside April. “Where were you hiding,” April asked. “Well, I came running down, same as Jade, when I heard you screaming your head off. When I realized what was happening, and then heard Jade yelling at Jasmine, I just slid into the background. Two things you never want to get in the middle of: a lovers’ quarrel and a family feud,” Lisa explained, looking pointedly at April. “Now you tell me,” April returned dryly. Lisa laughed. After a few moments, she turned serious again. “Now what?” “Now? Now I take Jade and Jasmine into their uncle’s office tomorrow, and try to explain to him why his company almost folded.” “After that?” “I have no idea.” April tossed back the last of the bourbon and headed for bed. ## Morning came too soon, and April found the sisters sitting in the kitchen, staring at the food in their plates. Neither woman would look at the other, let alone speak. April ducked out of the room before either of them saw her, and went out to pack her rental car. ## One would have thought they were going to a funeral, as silent as the car was during the ride in. No one said a word and no one made eye contact. April let out a heavy sigh as she followed the sisters into John’s office. She stood back near the door as Jade made a tearful confession to her uncle, Jasmine standing as stiff as a board the entire time. John stared at Jade for a few shocked moments, then just turned in his chair, staring out the window, obviously at a loss as to what to say. Jade took it as a kind of dismissal, and started yelling at him. Jasmine jumped in to defend their uncle, and everything went down hill from there. Knowing it was a family situation, one that she had no right to interfere with, she let herself out. No one noticed. She left her card and contact information with John’s secretary and headed for her car. She had about three hours to gather her things from the little apartment and catch her flight home. Cajun Spice Ch. 06 THE END (If you enjoyed the Jade/April/Jasmine triangle, these characters will return in a new story. As always, feedback is greatly appreciated. Thank you.)