31 comments/ 71719 views/ 102 favorites Love: At What Cost By: Myhands316 Author's Notes: Here is another one of my love stories. As with most of my stories, it isn't a quickie sex story, but more of a romance novella. As with all my work, please feel free to vote and comment on it. Please remember this is a copywrited work of fiction and all legal disclaimers apply. I'd like to thank Woflvixen, Ekmathean and the brokenhearted1 for their editorial services. Enjoy * "Mom, I'm home...! Mom...? Mom...!" A young woman came in the house and slammed the door. "Are you crying again?" Linda Burris's daughter asked through the locked bedroom door as she listened to the muffled sounds coming from her mom's room. She was caught.... 'Oh Shit!' She thought, as she scrambled to get herself together. "I'm fine sweetie. I'll be out in a minute to fix dinner." Linda called out, as she bolted into the bathroom. She refused to let her daughter see her like this again. Her son did once not long ago. He hounded her for weeks afterwards, trying to be the man of the house, he thought she needed. Her son, Tony, at sixteen was much too young to take on so much responsibility. He needed to worry about co-eds, computers and sports. Not his widowed mother, the house or if the bills were getting paid. Linda knew her children missed their father as much as she missed her husband. She turned on the sink to cover her last few sniffles, as she tried to regain her composure. What happens when you've already had perfect? How do you go on after it's gone? How do you keep on living when the love of your life is dead? Washing her face, her mind tumbled. To most, these questions are something they might deal with in a philosophy class. For Linda Burris, her life depended on finding the answers. She gave herself thirty minutes a day to be pitiful. Unfortunately, that day, she forgot her daughter would be coming home early. That day, the grief was too raw and the memories too vivid to hold back. Coming out of her room, Linda came face to face with her daughter Kim, a younger, thinner version of herself. Kim had her father's eyes that could always melt her heart. They were built so similarly, they could already swap cloths. Not that she'd wear anything out of Linda's closet, or Linda out of Kim's. They both stood between five six and five seven, with light reddish blond hair. Mom had hazel eyes and Kim had her father's green. Both tipped the scale under the hundred and twenty mark. The only exception, Kim still wore a large C instead of Linda's D to DD bras. But Kim hadn't had children nursing at her breasts yet. Linda hoped it would be a long time until she did. "Hi, honey. How's your day?" She tried for upbeat, hoping Kim wouldn't notice her red rimmed eyes. "Why were you crying? What happened?" Kim asked concerned. She knew her mom still had bad days. She did too. But for her, life had a way of moving the loss farther from her everyday mind. "Nothing, I was having a bit of a pity party, that's all. What do you want for dinner?" She tried to divert her overly astute daughter. "Mom, get a grip. Gram's bringing pizza... Remember? Family meeting night! Even Tony is going to make his presence known to us lower life forms. God, I hate having such a geeky brother." Kim was concerned, she thought, like almost everyone else, her mom needed to move on. If she found someone else, then she wouldn't dwell so much on the past. "Oh, I forgot.... Um... you don't seem to mind when he helps with your homework." Linda tried to sort out where her day went wrong. "Is this about dad again?" Kim knew her mom too well. "A bit, I suppose... and I had to tell Peter that I can't see him anymore. Of course, he caused a scene.... I don't know why I'm telling you all this." She said, walking into the kitchen to get a glass of wine. She needed to find her balance. "Mom, it's only three. No wine until after five... your rules. Are you depressed? The school counselor wants me to ask." Kim worried about her mom. She was acting so weird lately. "No sweetie, I'm not happy as a lark... but no, I'm fine. I don't need a bunch of pills, to get by either." She said pouring the glass anyway. "I've just had a really bad day." "Hi mom, isn't it a bit early?" Her son, Tony, asked in his usual direct tactless manner, as he entered the kitchen. Linda sighed sadly, he looked more and more like his father every day. He had the lank that made him look skinny, but also the defined muscle tone of an athlete. He was going to make some woman very happy when he chose. "Bad day she claims, and she's been crying in her room again." Kim tattled to her brother, ignoring the look from her mother. "Hey, wait a minute, I'm the mom. If I need a good cry...." Linda protested. "Dad again...?" Tony asked his sister. "That'd be my guess. She's on her first glass of wine and forgot the family meeting and dinner again." Kim told her younger brother, ignoring her mother's protest. "The trip will do her good then." He said absently, thinking they were right in their conclusions. "What trip...?" Linda asked "Shut-up Tony...! What an idiot. For someone so smart, you can be so stupid...!" Kim slapped her brother's arm. "Aren't you going to Nashville for that real estate thing?" Kim covered quickly. "Oh, um, no... That's part of the problem.... Peter arranged for a single room, with a double bed... and I really didn't want to go there." Linda rubbed her head, fighting the ache that was building. "Oh, sorry mom..." Tony covered his gaff. "I didn't know... sorry." Kim dragged her brother out of the kitchen to give him a piece of her mind. Linda would have picked up more, if the headache wasn't already pounding behind her eyes. She grabbed two pain pills and downed them with the last of her wine, rinsing out the glass and setting it in the strainer. Pulling out the paper plates, she set them on the table, and retreated back to her room. 'I need to get a better handle on myself. I haven't been this bad in over a year.' She thought as she lay down, covering her eyes with a pillow. Linda startled awake, when the doorbell rang. She didn't have to look at the clock to know she dozed. As she came out of her room, she heard her mother talking to the kids and sighed. Another confrontation she wasn't ready for. "Why is this door locked?" She heard her mother's voice ask tartly. "I thought I was expected? A fine way to be greeted...." The older woman prattled, as they escorted her to the kitchen. "How many today...?" She asked looking at the wine glass in the strainer. "Only one so far, she started at three when I got home, and she was crying in her room again...." The dutiful Kim, informed her grandmother. Linda knew she was going to have to do something about Kim. Like hire her out as the town crier or something. Maybe she could replace that silicone stuffed shirt on the news...? Kim had a habit of dispensing information, if you wanted her to or not. "Hi mom..." Linda greeted. "If you're done questioning my kids... how are you today?" Linda asked, as her mother put her twenty years out of date, if very expensive, purse on the sideboard. "A damn sight better than you it seems... When are you going to quit all this moping around? It's been three years plus. You need...!" she shook her regal hair-do. "I know what you think I need mom. But, I don't want cheep hollow sex. I don't even miss it that much. I don't need to go bed hopping to prove I'm still a woman. I have responsibilities to fill my day. I am fine and dealing with it as best I can!" "You still need to find someone. You're not that old yet. You need to have some fun!" Her mother wasn't to be deterred. Like all mothers, she thought she knew what her child needed even if they didn't agree. "Mom... I had a great man, and now he's gone. There's nothing I can do about that....Why should I settle for good? Besides I'm tired of fending off the grabby hands of those idiots when they find out I'm a widow... I'm not, nor ever will be, that desperate." "No, you're lonely. You need companionship. You need someone to share your life with... Do you think Ted would want you to stop living...?" The regal woman tried to get through to her daughter. "Mom, family meeting, you called it. Let's serve the pizza and get it over with. I have a headache and I don't want to fight with you again. I know you mean well, but...." "Pizza... I smell Pizza!" Tony bound into the room, diverting the budding hostilities. "Cool, extra meat!" He said, as he opened the lid of the big box, getting in between his mom and grandma. Linda wanted a glass of wine, but had iced tea instead. She didn't want all the commentary on her drinking habits. She wasn't a lush or anything. She knew exactly how much she drank and why. After the strained dinner conversation, sometimes Linda hated her mother's constant intrusions... she hoped they would get to the point of the meeting so she could go back in her room and let this day fade away. She should have expected something was up. But, it being one of those days, she didn't see it coming. Her mother, bless her heart, set this up and she knew it. Linda wanted to kill her... but then again, it was her mother. "Okay, now that the appetite has been filled, let's get down to business." Her mother stated without preamble. "We are concerned that you're refusing to move on Linda. We all know how much you loved Tim, but he's gone. You need to move on and get back to living again." 'Way to go mom! Love the tact.' Linda thought bitterly. Like it was that easy. "Oh I know, you've gone on a few dates, but they all end as utter disasters. I hate hearing my daughter being describes as a cold fish...." "Who said that?" Linda blurted. "Was it that braggart Ted? That slime-ball, I'll...!" Linda fumed. "It doesn't matter who said it!" Her mom shouted over the rant. "What matters, is that I have seen it with my own eyes. You've retreated into a hollow shell of your former self." Before Linda could go on an offensive, her mother beat her to the punch. "What matters, is that we all agree...! How often does that happen?" She paused for a second then slammed the hammer down. "That's what I thought you said. Now..." "Mom, we love you...! That's why we called Grammy." Kim said, trying to diffuse the argument. That was so like her, the little peace keeper. If anyone in the house was going to throw a tantrum... that was Kim's job. "Yeah mom, Please?" Tony added pleading. "Okay... okay, I'll listen" she said in defeat. She knew she was out flanked by their show of solidarity. "As I was saying...." her mother went on. "We all talked about it, and came up with the perfect solution. We know you haven't taken a vacation or any time off in the last two years. So, we put our heads together and found the best thing for you." She added smiling at the children. "And what might that be?" Linda asked, not really wanting to know. "A two week cruise in the Caribbean." Her mom said triumphantly. "WHAT...!" Linda screamed, grabbing the table for support. "A Cruise!" her mother stated forcefully. "Before you say anything, let me tell you all about it.... It's a special cruise. There is going to be a large woman's only group there, plus a singles group. You can mingle with whichever group you want... or not." She put her hand on her distraught daughters. "Mom, this isn't a set up." Kim added her hand to theirs. "This is us wanting you to have some down time. We know how hard you've worked to keep it together and we appreciate it. This is only our way of trying to show you." Kim tried to reassure her stressed out mother. "Yeah mom, it's time for you to chill for a bit. We already cleared it with your boss and everything. We love you, and think you need a break from the routine for awhile. You never know, you might even get lucky." He added with an eye wiggle and a laugh to show he was kidding. He had to do something to lessen the tension in the room. "I... when... What?" Linda stammered. "We can't afford this. I won't take any money out of the college accounts." Linda was losing and she knew it. "Linda, you don't have too. I've already purchased the ticket. When the kids thought this up, I agreed it was an excellent idea. I know... I know...! Before you even say it... Yes, I can afford it, and you know it. There is no use in having money, if you can't use it!" She finished with a smug look on her face. "But... and I... So, when is this fabulous cruise?" Linda asked sarcastically. "It's in early April. It will be before the hurricane season and before or after most college breaks. It's for two weeks instead of just one. So, that will limit the juvenile element. I have all the information you'll need. I have the instructions how to get there, and what you will need to pack. The travel agent was very helpful." Linda's mother knew how to manipulate people. It didn't matter if she had to act like a dotty old granny, or the rich entitled dowager, she got what she wanted, when she wanted it. "She told me that they have a first timers club, which will adroitly let the ship's personnel know, so they can help you, if you need it. What's really great about this cruise... it's an all inclusive trip. So, you don't have to worry about meals or anything else. Well, maybe a little extra money; to buy souvenirs or a new bathing suit. But, the room, meals and snacks are paid for. The cruise line even owns the resorts you will be stopping at...." "Whoa, this is too much. I can't just... That's in less than a month!" She reeled with the information overload. "I need a drink." "Tony, get your mother a glass of wine." Her mom ordered, as her son bound out of the room in instant compliance. *** 'I still don't know how I got sucked into this.' Linda thought, as she waited for her plane to board for Florida. She smiled at the tall brunette who was jabbering away on her phone. The woman had to be a model or something. She stood over six feet tall and had to be a size six, maybe an eight, but she doubted it. She wore clothes that mere mortals like Linda only dreamed of. And they looked great on her. She waved back, never faltering in giving someone instructions on the phone. Linda jumped as they called her flight to board. Linda hated flying, but somehow she was committed. Half the clothes she owned were already on the plane. It had been years since she'd even left Lexington. Her hands sweated as she'd found her seat and put her purse and overnight bag on the floor under the seat in front of hers, as she sat down. It surprised Linda to see the tall woman, while still talking on her phone, came and sat next to her. "Yeah, that's what I said... 20% and nothing more. Look, my dad will be in town for the next two weeks, act like he's the owner while I'm gone. As soon as I'm off the phone, I'm killing this thing until I get back to the states. It's been five years since my last real vacation...." Linda tried not to listen, but it was that or stare. So, she watched as the woman shut off her phone and shoved it into her bag, stuffing it in the overhead compartment before sitting down. "Hi, I'm Michelle." Her voice sounded much softer, and smoother as she introduced herself to Linda. "Oh, hi, I'm Linda." She smiled up at her. "First time flying Sugar...?" Michelle asked kindly "No, no... I just don't like it." "Where are you going" They asked each other at the same time and laughed. "Vacation... forced." Linda said tongue tied. "Sweetie, no one had to force me. I've needed the break. It's fun in the sun time for me. Daddy can handle the business while I'm gone. Not that he knows much about making dresses, but he does know how to run a business." "Oh, what do you do?" Linda asked interested. "I own a dress shop in Lexington, how about you?" "Oh, nothing exciting like that.... I'm in Real Estate, I list houses. I don't like selling.... That makes me feel like I'm being pushy, especially in this market." They chatted as the plane got ready to take off. Michelle chuckled as Linda grabbed her hand when the jet jolted down the runway, picking up speed for takeoff. "It's okay Sugar, I've got you." She said until Linda realized what she was doing. "Sorry, I... umm, hate flying." Linda blushed, not knowing how to break the contact. Three hours of chatting later, Linda thought she had seen the last of her tall friendly acquaintance. It was fun while it lasted, and helped her forget she was flying. But, she had to catch the bus that would take her to the ship or end up having to pay for a taxi. She had to get checked in early, and register for her place at dinner, according to her mother's itinerary. She was glad her mother had paid the extra for a suite. That meant she wouldn't have to share her room with a stranger, and could relax alone in her room if nothing else. She hoped that the singles didn't get rowdy. She would try to avoid them if at all possible. Dating or meeting someone for a two week fling was the last thing on her mind. She just wanted to relax and maybe find some peace. She stared blankly out the window at the palm trees and concrete, she gasped when the big ship came into view. She just knew she'd get lost on that thing, it was huge. There was no way she could find her way around. She blindly followed the directions on her paper, when she was approached by a plump woman in a cheap suit. "Can I help you?" She asked all smiles. "Hands off Sister..." Michelle's voice barked from behind her. "Oh, Hi, I didn't know you were taking this cruise." Linda smiled at her, as her long legs ate up the space between them. The woman backed off, as the tall commanding figure approached muttering. "Pushy fucking slut..." She brightened as she answered Linda. "Hey Sugar, I'd shared my limo if I knew. Daddy has a service, since he races horses down here all the time." She smiled down at Linda. "What a small world... I don't want to be a bother... Doesn't she work for the cruise line?" Linda asked confused watching the woman's retreating back. "Oh, Sugar, I forgot. This is your first time... No, she's on the make. She's looking for someone to sponge off. This is the upper class entrance. She's in the cheap seats and wants an upgrade." "Huh?" Linda asked even more confused. "Never mind... Let's get checked in." The tall woman escorted her through the VIP Concierge entrance. "So where did they book you?" "Oh, I have a private suite somewhere." Linda looked at her paperwork, trying to figure out what her room number meant. "Oh, cool digs. Who forced this on you anyway, you never said?" Michelle asked suspicious for the first time. There were things that didn't add up. "My meddling mother... She got together with my kids and set this all up." Linda said exasperated. "So, is your husband going to join you?" She asked pointing to the wedding ring. "God I wish..." Linda breathed, instantly clouding up. "Oh... OH...! Sorry. I'm really sorry. I didn't know.... I guess I'm just getting jaded. How long ago...?" Michelle asked putting her arm around the shorter woman. "Four years ago in July. A drunk driver..." Linda said, her eyes misting. It still hurt. "Damn... Hey, we're on vacation.... Okay, take a deep breath, and let's go have fun!" The tall woman said, trying to undo the damage her carless comment caused. "Where are you staying?" Linda asked, changing the subject. "Somewhere close to you. They have only so many suites on this tub." Michelle smiled, trying to lighten the mood. Michelle kept up the idle chatter until she saw Linda's face lighten up. She hated to think she had caused this obviously innocent woman the pain etched on her face. 'Damn, I need this more than I thought.' Michelle scolded herself. She didn't think her father was as jaded, and he was on arm candy number four since her own mother died. She shook her head and loped her arm with the shorter woman who for some reason caught her attention. When it was their turn, a tall fresh faced young man told them. Love: At What Cost "One of our Pursers' will escort you to your rooms in a few minutes. You both are seated at the Captains table tonight, and he requests evening attire on the first night. After that, it's more casual until the last night or if there is a special event...." He blathered on about rules and emergency procedures, but Michelle saw the blank overwhelmed look on Linda's face and cut him off. "It's okay Sailor, I know the drill and will keep her in the loop. I know you'll have to recite that spiel a hundred more times today... save your voice." She smiled a five thousand watt smile to take the sting out of her words. He just smiled back, preening before the next couple came up to check in. "Okay Sweetheart, here we go." Michelle told Linda as she grabbed her arm and propelled her into the great unknown. They ended up two doors down from each other as Linda ohhed and ahhed over the suite and the slinky evening dress that was already laid out on her bed. She recognized her mother's influence, but didn't care at that moment. "I'll see you at dinner" Michelle told her with a big smile, as she headed to her own suite. As soon as she closed her door the tall woman berated herself. "Okay girl, get a grip. That poor woman doesn't have a clue. I don't care how wet she makes your pussy. Hands off! She's friendship material only." She told herself. "Damn she's one sexy woman though. A little work on her hair and I can have her in a dress that will make men and women both drool over her. I wonder if...No, no.... Friends only...!" Michelle had just about convinced herself of the boundaries, when she walked out and saw Linda in her chaste but form fitting evening gown, and groaned. "This is going to be a long trip." She smiled as Linda saw her. "Hey Sugar, I'm going to have to get a big stick to beat them off." She came up and ran her hand down the silk sleeve. "Oh, then maybe I should change. I don't want that...." "Sugar, every woman wants the attention you're going to get tonight. That doesn't mean you have to hit back. Let'em dangle and drool." She smiled. "Like they're going to see me after one look at you.... I don't even come close." Lind said believing it. "Oh honey, who killed your self-esteem? You're one foxy momma. If you'd let me loose on you, I'd make you the Belle of the Ball." Michelle reassured the reluctant Linda, as she guided her toward the dining area. Linda blushed at the complement, and then went wide eyed, as they entered the Grand Ballroom. "Wow, this looks like we should be in Paris or something. Does everyone get to come here?" "Nope... just us upper end guests... They have three of these ballrooms on different decks. All of them have a Captain's table, but we get the real head Captain. There are like three or four of them to run a ship this size. If this was a company, we'd get the CEO. The others get the flunkies." "I hate to ask, but how much did my mother spend on this trip?" Linda asked with a sinking feeling in her gut. "Depending on when she bought the ticket. But on this cruise line, all inclusive, single occupancy, for two weeks? About ten to fifteen thousand, Daddy got me a deal; I have some extras but paid twelve." Michelle said unconcerned. "One week is about Five to Seven for a suite; most are cheaper, but not all inclusive." Michelle explained as she headed to the big table in the front, dragging the gasping Linda behind her. "I'm going to kill her!" Linda hissed at the news. "What? Or, should I say who?" Michelle smiled at the look on her friends face. "My Mother...! She knows I don't like spending that kind of money frivolously. I'd rather put it in my kids college fund." Linda fumed. "Yeah, I bet that is exactly why she did it. She can afford it, can't she?" Michelle asked concerned. She'd heard of people who spent their life savings on these big cruises. "Yes, but that's not the point...." "I'd bet my bottom dollar, that I'd get a different answer from her." Michelle giggled as she sat down next to the fuming but sexy Linda. "Relax Sugar, the money's spent and you are here to have some fun." She didn't wait for the Majordomo as she popped the cork on a very expensive bottle of Champaign. "Here, take a load off. It will be a few minutes as the others drift in. We might as well enjoy it." Michelle added as she filled their glasses. After the first drink, Linda relaxed and was surprised at the good company at the table. None of the men hit on her and a few of the women commented positively on her dress. What she didn't see, was the subtle way Michelle was directing some of the more ardent people away from her tipsy friend. "God, I don't believe I'm playing knight in shining armor. I need laid, and this cruise is supposed to have a girl's only group." Michelle muttered to herself as she waved off another man by softly putting her hand on the oblivious woman who was deep in conversation with some white haired old bat as they served up the next course. As the meal progressed, Linda drank more wine than since her honeymoon. She was feeling no pain as Michelle tapped her on the shoulder and whispered. "Are you going to be able to walk to your room?" "Sure sweetie, I feel fine. You wanna do some dancin? I feel like dancin. Come on let's let our hair loose." Linda smiled at the pretty Michelle, not knowing how it affected the other woman. "Oh shit, I'm going to regret this." Michelle cursed under her breath. "Okay! Let's go!" She said loud enough to penetrate to the wine fogged woman. Michelle pulled the weaving woman up, made their goodbyes and pulled her to the dance floor as the band started a fast song. Linda danced rather well for a drunk woman. If Michelle didn't know better, she would have sworn Linda had been a dancer in her previous life. She sure knew how to move her body to the music. 'If I had my way I'd...' Michelle shook her head against the vision of the sexy Linda naked sprawled across one of their beds. "Only friends... we're only friends." She sang with the music. "God I wish she wasn't so naive, she's driving me crazy... only friends." Michelle laughed at Linda, as she gyrated across the dance floor. "What the hell... at least she's having fun." They ignored the looks as they moved across the floor in an unconscious dance as old as time. She knew she had to get Linda to her room, once they started the slow songs, she saw the sharks circling. "Okay sweetheart, you've had enough for one night." She grabbed Linda and steered her out of the ballroom before anyone could get their hooks into her inebriated friend. "You are the nicest person I've met in a long time. I'm glad we met." Linda said with a huge smile on her face as she weaved down the hall. "You wouldn't say that if you really knew me Sugar. I can be one mean girly girl, if you know what I'm saying." She tried to warn her new friend as she helped her dodge the people. "Naw, you're just a big sweetheart. You don't think I didn't see how you've watched out for me tonight. I had a great time. I drank too much. I haven't been this sloppy since my honeymoon." She smiled up at the taller woman. "You're so beautiful, you know that. I wishes I looked one tenth as sexy as you." She slurred. "Damn girl, if you only knew... Don't tempt me.... We need to get you to bed." Michelle said through gritted teeth, fighting the temptation. They swayed through the hallway with the subtle rolling of the ship as Linda inadvertently but her hand on Michelle's hip and made the tall woman wish her friend knew how turned on she was. But, Michelle knew for a fact Linda was clueless about her orientation. She refused to take advantage of her weakened state. She knew she had to get Linda in bed so she could sleep off the three bottles of wine after the first bottle of bubbly. She didn't envy Linda's head the next morning. "Here we are. Where's your key?" Michelle asked as she propped the listing woman up next to her door. "Oh, I had had no other place to put it... so I hid in my vault." Linda giggled at her own joke. "Keep a look out; while I crack open the safe." She giggled again as she unbuttoned the top three buttons and showed Michelle some very inviting cleavage, as she rummaged in her bra, looking for the keycard. "Here it is." Linda proclaimed as she pulled the card from under her breast, giving the staring woman in front of her a good look of a swollen nipple. "I found it, now to lock everything back up." She tried to adjust herself. "Sugar, leave it, you'll be shinnying out of that dress anyway." Michelle said with a dry throat. 'Damn, she doesn't know what she's doing to me. I could feast on those....' "Only friends..." She said under her breath as Linda opened her door. "Thanks Sweetie, I had a great time. I wish I wasn't alone tonight. Make sure I get up in the morning. Here's my key so you can get in. Night...!" Linda said as she pushed her room key into the startled woman's hand and shut the door. "And I thought I was wound tight." Michelle grinned at Linda's actions and heard a thud, wondering if she needed to help the poor woman. She listened at the door for a second until she heard Linda flop on the bed and laugh. "I'll make sure I bring a lot of aspirin." She chuckled. The next morning, Michelle softly opened Linda's door and looked inside. Instantly she'd wished she hadn't. Not that she'd take it back, ever. Linda made it out of the dress and her bra, but didn't make it under the covers. Michelle always liked her women well fleshed and curvy. She saw all of Linda's charms. "Just friends... She doesn't know any better." Michele told herself as she entered the room. She covered Linda as well as she could so she wouldn't be tempted. Linda's nipples looked so ripe.... "Just friends...!" She protested. "Hey, sleepy head, Time to wake up Sugar." Michelle called out before she could refuse the temptation. "Ohh, God, what time is it?" Linda groaned, rolling over. "What did I do last night? Why does my mouth taste like carpet?" She covered her head to quiet the pounding she thought was coming from the next room. "Nine in the morning... danced your ass off... and I think you took a nose dive into the carpet last night before you found the bed. Are you hungry?" Michelle answered grinning. "What... huh...? Food's icky. I need coffee." Linda said as she tossed off her covers, giving Michelle a free show. "I need to brush... I need a shower... I'll be right out." She stumbled out of sight to the shower. Michelle bit her lip as Linda discarded her panties, showing off her new bikini wax and the tuft of brown pubic hair in a perfect V that pointed to a moist, slightly protruding clit. 'Only friends... damn she's sexy.... Only friends.... Oh, I'd like to dive into that...Only friends... If this is torture for some wrong I did in a past life. It's not fair!' Michelle breathed fast trying to control herself. "I'll be right back, Sugar" Michelle called out as she headed to the door, on the way back to her room to take the edge off. "Okay, keep my key. If I drink like that again, you'll need it. They gave me two." Linda called over the shower spray. "Okay, I'll see you in a few. Come get me if you're done first." Michelle made a hasty retreat before she joined the sexy woman in the shower. "Damn, finally a woman I could really fall for, and she is straight as straight can be. I don't even get a curious vibe from her." She muttered as the vision of Linda's ripe body flashed in her mind. Linda stumbled out of the shower and felt almost human again. She tried to pinpoint what was so different about her new friend, and why her body tingled every time they touched. The only time she felt anything close, well, Tim could make her tingle. Linda pulled on her clothes, thinking about her husband. For the first time since... she smiled at the knowledge that Tim would have laughed his ass off at her antics. She pulled herself together, putting her extra key in her pocket, as she went to go get her new friend. She was concerned when she heard moaning coming from behind Michelle's door. She knocked and called out. "You okay...? Michelle...?" After a few seconds she got a response. "Yeah Sugar, I'll be right there," was the breathless reply. She waited as the water came on, and then Michelle opened her door. "Okay, ready.... That isn't what you're wearing is it?" "Well yeah, what's wrong with it?" Linda asked wondering if she dressed inappropriately for this cruise line. "Nothing, if you're going for the spinster schoolmarm look. You're on vacation Sugar. Not a business trip." She looked disdainfully at the frumpy dumpy clothes. "Oh, ummm, my mom helped me pack." Linda said in her own defense. "Well, I'm hungry. We can sort out your wardrobe later. Come on, daylight's burning. Let's go to the buffet." Michelle again hooked her arm in Linda's, as she guided her in the right direction. After breakfast, and a quick look at Linda's wardrobe; Michelle dragged her new friend down to the on-board shops to get some appropriate vacation clothes. Linda had never had so much fun picking out a wardrobe. She refused to think of the dent in her credit card as they outfitted her. She did blush at the swim suits that the tall woman had picked for her and insisted she try on. "I can't wear these. I'm a middle age mom, not some knockout co-ed." She complained and refused to come out of the dressing room, trying to hand back the rest of the skimpy suits. "Oh bother... Here, let me see!" Michelle overrode Linda again. "Damn girl, you've got the body... you just need to flaunt it once in awhile. You're going to have the men tripping over their tongues and half the women too." She caught her breath at the sight before her. She had Linda change into the cute short set she had found and made sure the clerk knew they wanted the suit no matter what Linda said. As she led Linda to the next shop, Linda complained. "I've never spent so much on so little cloth. That suit is almost indecent. My daughter would love it though." "If she looks anything like you, she'd look great in it. I expect to see you wearing it this afternoon for the mandatory, 'I'm a sexy woman' stroll around the pool. We're going to knock them dead." They laughed, giggled and had a great time paling around together. The problem didn't appear until it was almost time for dinner a few days later. They were sitting in the spa when another woman came in and started hitting on Linda... hard. Linda was oblivious, but Michelle saw green and red. She couldn't help herself as she got snotty with the other woman and had to finally set poor Linda straight on a few things. "Sugar, we need to have a talk." Michelle said as she motioned Linda over to a secluded table once they left the spa area. "What's the matter? Did I do something wrong?" Linda asked perplexed. "No Sweetie, that's the problem. Oh God, I don't believe I'm doing this. Umm, Sugar, do you remember that tart at the gate?" She fished for a place to start. "Yeah...." Linda said hesitantly. "What about her?" "You do know she was a Lesbian don't you? Well, at least Bi...." "She's what?!" Linda gasped, stunned. "Damn, that's what I thought. How old is your mother?" Michelle asked dreading the answer. "Mom's in her mid to late sixties, why?" "Let me guess, you don't like men hitting on you, so she picked a cruise with a women's only group on it?" Michelle rolled her eyes already knowing the answer. "Yeah, that way I could choose which group I wanted to mingle with... Why...?" Linda had a hollow feeling in her stomach. "Shit! Um... Sugar, I hate to tell you this, but a Single Woman's only group is parlance for... Damn... women who like other women. As in Lesbians; that's why she hit on you. She, like I, saw the ring, but no man so...." Michelle shrugged, hoping Linda would catch the drift. "No...! You're kidding right!?" Linda blushed at her naiveté. "No, sorry, but... Damn it... Come over here and I'll point some things out for you." Michelle scooted Linda's chair so she could show her what she was talking about. "See that woman over there with the really short hair and no tits to speak of?" She continued at Linda's nod. "She's what is commonly called a Dyke. A Butch Dyke in all her glory. She might as well be a man, but minus the penis. Unless she's wearing a strap-on...." She directed her friend's attention over to a willowy woman drinking at the bar. "Her, she's a femme, or what is called a Lipstick Lesbian. She is as feminine as they come. But, I can promise you, a man has never gotten close to her goodies. She's drooling over the dyke, but will never make the first move." Pointing in the pool, Michelle showed Linda her next example before the smaller woman could bolt. "That couple over there, well they want the femme. She's Bi, and he wants to watch, if not join. They'd do better on a swinger's trip. But, I might be wrong. He could be one of the rare ones who can accept his wife's lifestyle without having to be involved. Let me tell you, those are rare and far in between." "How... how do you know?" Linda was shocked at what Michelle was showing her. "Are you Bi-sexual...?" "I'll answer that later, if you still want to know.... How I know, is because I've been on these cruises before. Now... about that woman in the spa, she was giving you all the signals that she wanted to spend the afternoon buried between your legs or you between hers. If I wasn't there... well she might have pounced right there. She wants nothing more than some quickie girl-girl sex." Linda blushed at her words. "This is her time to live a life her husband doesn't know about. She has to make the best of it while she can. Her husband feels secure because there are fewer men and he doesn't know. He's probably plowing his secretary while she's away, but doesn't want anyone to touch what he thinks belongs to him. Separate businesses, vacations, and all that." "How can you be sure?" Linda asked shocked. As she watched, she saw the woman in the pool hit and score with another woman as they left hand in hand, the husband, smiling as he followed. "Because I know, or I'm at least close. I've met many people like them before. I know what to look for. Now, if you look on the lower deck," She pointed at the pool that was below them. "You will see a different dance going on. They are mostly single, or pretending to be single partiers. There will be a few mass orgies out of that group... a few Date-Rapes too." "All of a sudden I feel the need to put more clothes on. I didn't want to come here looking for some cheap sex. I was trying to avoid that." Linda said as she crossed her arms in front of her almost exposed breasts. "Yeah, I kind of figured that Sugar. That's why I pulled you over here. You had to know what was going on before something happened that you didn't want." "Am I keeping you from having the fun you came for?" Linda asked hoping this wasn't some kind of a set up. "Linda, I'll tell you honestly.... There isn't anyone on this boat I'd rather be with right now. I haven't felt this good... Anyway, I like you Sugar. That's a minor miracle for me...." A man started coming over with a couple of drinks, Linda saw him and she also saw the look of distaste on Michelle's face. She paid attention to the subtle movement, the shocked look on the man's face. She knew for a fact, Michelle directed him away without saying a word. "Wow! That's impressive... A touch and a twitch and you sent him packing. How did you do that? Can you teach me?" "Sugar, I think you're right. This is a conversation that we need more clothes on for. Let's go change and have dinner." Michelle redirected Linda, while thinking 'I'd love to teach you that, and a whole lot more.' Love: At What Cost They went to their rooms and changed. Michelle kept the conversation light as they ate. Thoughts and visions penetrated Linda's brain that never would've crossed her mind at home. For some reason, she felt like she was a different person. More accepting and open minded than the stuffy woman who listed houses for the elite of the small city of Lexington, Kentucky. Once her eyes were opened, she didn't know if she could close them again, or even if she wanted to. She saw the look of pure envy from some of the women and men who would've loved to get closer to her new friend. She also didn't feel any pressure from the tall, sexy, confident, escort next to her. Michelle could see the shorter woman's mind tumble with her thoughts. She hated to violate the little cocoon of innocence Linda had around her. Michelle used her talent of figuring people out on Linda for the first time. She loved what she saw, even if she hated doing it. If she didn't miss her guess, Linda had one maybe two lovers in her life. The most important being her husband. She was a happy wife who doted on her family. She loved once, long and strong. Linda lived the word commitment. She's a woman that Michelle could love forever, if only she returned the feeling. It was getting late, and Linda kept her water topped off. She wanted her head clear for the conversation she wanted to have with the tall brunette who had befriended her. "Can we go out on the deck? It's too noisy in here tonight." Linda asked simply and followed Michelle out to the intimate deck setting. Finding a secluded spot...steeling her courage, she had to know. "So, are you Bi-Sexual and where do you fit in this group?" She asked boldly. "Sugar, you sure you want to know?" She continued at Linda's nod. "It's a pretty night.... No honey, I'm not bi. There has been only one man I've loved in my life... and that's my father. I'm a girl's girl. I'm kind of middle of the road. Not femme, but not a butch either. I'm me, and happy to be." "Wow! Um, then why haven't you..?" "Hit on you?" Michele finished for Linda. "That's easy.... I knew you're clueless. I'm more mature than that... And, like you... I'm not looking for some cheap quickie sex either. I work too hard with my shop. I don't have time for games. So, I come on one of these cruises whenever I can get away, and dream of finding a forever lover." "Wow," Linda tried to process the information. "Um, yeah..." "Don't worry Sweetheart; I won't make a move on you. I like you too much to mess up what could be a great friendship over sex. Not that I'm not tempted." "It must have killed you the other morning!" Linda flashed to her little nude show. "Don't even go there Sugar. Please!" Michelle smiled. "Well, I need to turn in. It's our first stop tomorrow and I need my beauty sleep. If you want to knock around the shops on shore, look me up." She said; knowing Linda would have to make up her mind if she wanted to be seen with her again. She knew some people couldn't take the fact... Anyway, it had to be Linda's decision and she would honor it. Linda pulled her knees under her as she watched the tall woman sway away from her. When she was out of sight, she looked up to the stars and let her mind wander. She stared at the stars until she was interrupted by the white haired woman who sat at the Captain's table with her and Michelle. "It is a beautiful night." She said in her crushed velvet voice. "But I don't know if I'd be out here with her waiting for me in the room." "What...? No, it's not like that... We're just friends." Linda tried to explain. "Sweetie, don't try and fool this old girl. I might need tri-focal glasses, but I can still see. She's got it bad and I don't blame her." She added with a wink. "Now... go make her one happy woman, you won't regret it." She said as she tottered off. "Yeah, I'll just go...." Linda said confused. She walked to her room in a fog. She had never thought... But who said it had to go there. She liked being around the tall woman. No reason to get all.... She slipped into her room, and for the first night in years, she had erotic dreams. *** It was early and Michelle wanted to sleep in. She had tried to relieve the tension being with Linda built up, but couldn't quite make it there. She wanted the sexy woman two doors down, not the fantasy. Then there was incessant knocking. She couldn't ignore it anymore. "What? I'm sleeping." She complained as she tried to cover head with a pillow. "Coffee... I come bearing coffee." Linda said in a sing-song voice. "Time to get up, breakfast then beaches and fun all day." "Ugg, No one should be that chipper in the morning." Michelle complained as she opened her door, still in her silk nighty, to the smell of the hot Mocha in Linda's hand. "Oh, chocolate, you should have said so... I love chocolate. Give." She grabbed for the steaming mug, and then stumbled back to her bed, taking a sip. "MMMmmmm, Better..." She took a drink from the covered mug, "wake me next week." Michelle slumped back into her bed. Linda, acting like a kid, for the first time in over a decade; jumped on Michelle's bed, bouncing the thinner woman off the mattress. "Come on, there are beaches, shops and fun to be had. I'll even wear that string thing you made me buy... It's time to go explore." "Really...?" Michelle asked, opening one eye, not believing her. Linda smiled as she untied her top and flashed the stripped cup that barely held her large breast in place as her nipple poked out at Michelle. "I'm up.... I'm up.... You tease. I'll get you for that...." She said as she pulled herself out of bed and headed into the bathroom. "You better be careful Sugar. Not all of us girly-girls can restrain ourselves from temptation." "Oh, but you promised... So, I know I'm safe with you." Linda laughed at Michelle's look. Lounging on the bed, Linda looked at the bar menu and asked. "So why do all these drinks have a sexual connotation?" "What?" Michelle asked over the shower. "You know... a fuzzy navel, sex on the beach, a slow soft screw... I mean even the wine. Look at Liebfraumilsch. It means a young or lovely woman's milk. Depending on how you translate it." "Are you purposely teasing me Sugar?" Michelle asked, cutting her shower down to the bare necessities. "No," Linda laughed again. "I was just wondering." Michelle thought two could play that game. As she walked out nude in front of Linda. "Probably that's what they have in mind when they're giving you the drink." She said as she walked over to her wardrobe. "Damn, it's not fair. Not a wrinkle or a stretch mark." Linda said breathless. "You must drive the guys and the girls' nuts." "Hummm..., I take it you plan on being open with me about my sexuality?" Michelle asked with an arched eyebrow, as she picked up her swimsuit. "Yeah... why shouldn't I? I mean... I like you, and you are who you are. So, if you're okay with it; who am I to judge. I mean you've been great to me and I haven't had a friend in so long...." "Sugar, don't sell yourself so short. You are temptation personified. We're going to knock them all dead." She pulled on a long one piece suit that left nothing to the imagination. Linda could see the stiff little buds of her nipples and the outline of the cleft between her long legs. Her stomach clenched in response. "For all the material in that thing, it sure doesn't cover much." Linda breathed. "Yeah that's the point. I can wear this and watch them all drool over us but won't dare come over to get a closer look. Everyone is going to think we're together. Well, there might be some boys. But they scare away easily enough." Michelle adjusted the suite over her hips and made sure her cheeks were in place. "This could be fun." Linda giggled. "Oh, it's going to be.... Frustrating for me maybe, but fun all the same." "Don't let me get in the way of...." "I already told you... No one could hold my interest like you... Believe me, not too many women could be as accepting as you are." "Oh, I didn't know...." "Let's go..." Michelle said as she wrapped a light shirt over her top, pulled up her shorts up and slid into her open toed sandals. "Don't forget the sun screen. I'd hate to see those mountains of creamy flesh burned." She ogled Linda's cleavage that showed through the thin top. They laughed, giggled and teased everyone equally. Only the observant bartender knew the girls' game. She had been doing this long enough to know what was happening. Although, she also, looked and drooled right along with everyone else. Both women looked very eatable. She recognized the signs of the budding love affair and wished she could be part of it, even as a third wheel. It had been awhile since her last lesbian orgy. "Would you like some Sex on the Beach?" She asked the shorter, fuller one with a big smile, trying to set a teasing tone. "What...? Oh, no, it's a bit open for that..." Michelle burst out laughing as Linda caught the drift. "No Sugar, do you want one... the drink...!" She giggled as everything from Linda's cleavage up turned red. "Oh, sorry, no I'd rather some Liebfraumilsch." She smiled at her quip, sticking her tongue out at her friend. "Coming right up, and you Ma'am?" The cute bartender didn't miss a beat or the banter. "Me I want the Sex on the Beach.... With her would be nice." Michelle pointed out a busty blond. "No way, she's not your type." Linda exclaimed, looking at the woman who bounced around unnecessarily. "Why the hell not...? She's full figured, curvy, but not fat." She looked back at her friend and wished. "Yeah, if you're into Memorex... You'd have to keep a can of compressed air handy if you wanted to have a conversation longer than the weather or how big her boobs are." Linda told her straight faced. "What for...?" Michelle asked looking at Linda's ample chest as her mouth watered. "A refill of course... I wonder if you blow it in her ear, if there would be any resistance." Linda cocked her head in bafflement. The bartender laughed at Linda's comment as she set down the drink in front of them. "She's got that one pegged. She's more DC than AC anyway. Listen to your girlfriend. I'd be a better bet than her." She winked at Michelle, letting her know she was both teasing and interested. "I'll keep that in mind, but I don't think my friend is willing to share." She winked back and put a twenty in the tip jar. As they walked away, Linda was flabbergasted. "Did what I think happen, just happen?" Linda kept looking over her shoulder, watching the bar lady. "Depends... If you think bar girl just said she'd be interested in one, if not both of us, single or as a pair. Then yeah Sweetie, it happened." "How could a young sexy thing like that be interested in me? I'm a middle aged housewife." Linda shook her head in confusion. "I didn't know you married a house." Michelle teased. "I keep telling you, you're temptation personified. You will find with women... we're not as picky about the age thing. We know a good thing when we see it. And you're a knockout." "Um, I'm hungry... What do you want to eat?" Linda asked blushing. "Besides you" Michelle said in a sotto voice. "How about surf and turf... We can split it." She brightened. Michelle tried to behave, but no one, not even her last lover, had been as open about her preferences as Linda. She didn't have to hide anything, other than her obvious attraction to the busty woman. 'God, if she only swung my way!' She thought more than once during the evening. She watched Linda drink the wine, and hoped she didn't get sloshed like the first night. She didn't know if she'd have the will power. Linda held her hand on the trip back to the ship and asked as they boarded the ship. "Do you mind, I'd like to go dancing tonight." "Okay Sweetie, I'll be your second. Let's change into something..." "Sure... see you in fifteen then?" Linda said as she rushed into her room. "You glutton for punishment... Fool, she's going to break your heart if you let her. Chump, sap, stooge...!" Michelle bitched at herself has she got dressed in a nice outfit, leaving off the uncomfortable bra. "I must've gotten more sun than I thought." She said to the mirror as she checked her make-up. Linda looked stunning in her new summer dress. Michelle had to do a double take when Linda passed in front of a lighted room. She wondered if she realized she forgot her panties... there was no hiding the brown tuft of hair, or what it pointed to through the thin material. Michelle made sure Linda didn't drink too much as they danced to the fast songs. Linda was feeling warmer and warmer. She wanted... She didn't know what she wanted, but she didn't want the night to end. The band announced that they were going to slow things down a bit. Michelle, willing to lead Linda off the dance floor, started toward a free table. Linda took two steps, and then stopped in the middle of the dance floor. The soft slow music started and she pulled on Michelle's hand. Michelle looked back confused. "Let's dance." Linda said pulling on the hand in hers. "Are you sure?" Michelle asked as her heart hammered in her chest. "Yes, it's only a dance. I won't step on your toes... I promise." Linda smiled up at the taller woman, oozing emotion. "I'm going to regret this, but if you want to." Michelle pulled the shorter woman into her arms as they meshed together and swayed to the music, ignoring the looks and gasps around her. One song led to two. Halfway through the second, Linda rested her head on Michelle's breasts. She heard the heart beat beneath her ear and her head spun. By the third song, the rest of the dancers, realizing something special was going on, let them have the middle of the floor uncontested. Most watched as the two women cuddled and swayed, oblivious to the world around them. Linda didn't even realize when she lifted her head and reached for Michelle's lips. Michelle was lost to those eyes and leaned in. The kiss was soft at first, hesitant. Then Linda deepened it. Michelle didn't have a choice. For the rest of the song, they stood there lost in that first kiss. Neither one was aware of what was happening around them. At the end of the song, they were jarred to awareness by the applause. They thought at first, it was for the band. As they pulled apart, they realized it was for them. For the first time in longer than she cared to remember, Michelle blushed. "Let's go." She hissed to her stunned companion. Applause followed them as they left the ballroom. Linda had to almost run to keep up with the long legged Michelle. They entered her room, knowing Michelle used the key she gave her. She snapped to attention when the tall woman tried to release her hand. "Don't... Don't let go..." Linda said holding tight to her hand. "I can't... I... want...." Michelle stuttered as Linda pulled the tall woman back into an embrace. "Don't go.... Please don't leave me...." She begged, not knowing what she was begging for. Her mind was on fire and all she knew was that she needed the tall woman in front of her. "Are you sure Sugar? Once you cross this bridge you can't uncross it." Michelle was afraid of the no, but terrified of the yes. Without releasing her, Linda took the step and closed her door. Feeling a power she didn't know where it came from, she became the aggressor just long enough to pull the taller Michelle into another deep kiss. Michelle groaned and stopped resisting. By the time they made it to the bed, Michelle's top was off and Linda's dress lay in tatters on the floor. They fell into the bed and consumed each other with kisses. Michelle fought to release Linda's full ripe breasts so she could feast. Linda's inexperience showed, but she compensated with a passion, that now loose, could not be contained. Her mind and body burned at Michelle's touch. Her mouth looked to suckle the pert high nipples of her new lover. She gasped out when she was penetrated by her lover's hand. She flung back as her first orgasm seized her body. Michelle took this opportunity to taste the dripping cleft that had teased her mind since she first saw it. No one could ever confuse the sounds coming out of the suite. It was unmistakable passionate lovemaking at its purest. Michelle taught and Linda learned. Linda, not being able to take anymore, forced the tall woman over as she gave her sensitive sex the rest it needed, as she fed on the long woman in front of her. She never hesitated as she came lip to lip with Michelle's sex. She drank like her life depended on the juices her lover fed her. By the time they collapsed, they lost count of the times they crested the mountain and fell over into bliss. Michelle had never been so well loved in her life. All she could do was hold on and hope she survived the fall. Linda envisioned her husband smiling down on her as she cuddled the warm soft body next to her. She had no reservations left. She accepted the love given and received. She never dreamed her life would take this turn, but was too content to worry about it. Michelle woke up first. She wasn't used to having someone in bed with her. As soon as her eyes opened, she dreaded Linda's response to what happened the night before. She hated the thought of the rejection of an unwanted drunken interlude. She wished she had more will power. She stiffened when she felt Linda start to move. Linda didn't want to wake up, but she had to pee. She stretched and felt Michelle's body and smiled. It wasn't a dream. She had made love to the tall sexy woman and enjoyed every second of it. She pulled the warmth closer to her and opened her eyes. She saw the clouds in Michelle's. She didn't hesitate as she leaned up and kissed her and watched as shock overcame doubt. "HHHmmmmm, no regrets then Sugar?" Michelle asked the sexy woman who held her gaze. "I... you were drunk and I couldn't... I was afraid...." "Why should I regret one of the best experiences I've ever had? I was tipsy, not drunk. I knew what I was doing when I ripped off your shirt." Linda said looking at the mess they made. "I wonder if I can fix that dress, I really like it." "Oh God Sugar...! I'll make you ten just like it." Michelle said as she pounced on the woman in front of her. "Mmmm, you feel good, but I have to pee." Linda said prosaically. She got up, unashamed in her nakedness in front of her new lover. "So what do you want to do today Babe?" She asked, as her water hit the bowl. Michelle's heart thudded at the endearment. Never such sweet words had she heard. "Stay in bed, order room service, and make love to you all day." Michelle answered truthfully. "Hum, that sounds nice, but I think we'll need clean sheets before long." Linda said as she swapped places with her tall lover. "I never thought... Where do we go from here? I never thought I could love again..." "Sugar, take your time. I know this is new to you, but make sure this is what you want. They say these cruises can be potent, but there is a real world waiting when we get home." "I don't even want to think about that yet. I just want you..." Linda said as she came up and kissed Michelle with less heat, but more emotion than the night before. Hours later, Linda pulled Michelle into the shower. They were getting overly ripe. She took her time getting to know her lovers body. She had learned new and exciting ways to please Michelle. She wondered if it was too soon to tell her that she was in love with her. Just like with Tim, once that barrier was breached, there was no turning back. She knew it would all work out. It had to. There was no putting the genie back in the bottle now. Michelle reveled in the simple open way Linda made love to her. There was no holding back. It was all or nothing and she was close to drowning in the all. Her head was telling her that she needed distance, before she completely lost herself. But her heart said it was already too late. This innocent homemaker, she'd never met before this trip, had already penetrated all her defenses. She worried that when they got home, in the light of the real world, if this illusion would shatter like a sugar snowflake hitting the ground.