1 comments/ 18406 views/ 5 favorites A Taste of Strawberry Ch. 01 By: katunda I dropped my purse on the hall table and walked into the living room, thankful that it was Friday and another work week was over. Not that I had any big plans for the weekend, but at least I didn't have to get up and go to the office for two days. The living room was its usual mess, giving me my usual twinge of guilt. Well, I was getting used to it – it had been months since I'd cared about doing any real housekeeping or cleaning. I glanced at the wall calendar. In eight more days, it would be three months exactly since Matt dumped me. Three months. With a sigh, I walked into the kitchen to make myself a drink. You really gotta slow down on the drinking! I told myself. Sure. Maybe next week, when Prince Charming comes over to carry me away to the castle. The kitchen made the living room look good by comparison, so I quickly made my drink and walked over to the PC to lose myself in some mindless internet surfing. Maybe I could find something interesting to watch on Netflix. Or just play Solitaire – that was always good for wasting a couple of hours. But I couldn't think of anything I felt like Googling, even my new fascination with '40s and '50s Film Noir didn't turn up any movies I felt like watching and I found myself getting bored and annoyed with the crummy Solitaire hands I kept getting dealt. Matt and I never had any trouble finding fun things to do. I shook my head in annoyance and got up to fix myself another drink. As I poured, the all-to-familiar sensation of tears trickling down my cheeks brought me up short. Dammit, you've got to get hold of yourself! I screamed silently. You make me sick with your constant whining and sniveling! How could you let another person get such control over how you feel about yourself? I wanted Matt back. I knew he wasn't coming back. So what did I do now? Dumping my half-made drink into the sink, I tore off a piece of paper towel and blew my nose. The first thing I was going to do was get out of this damned, depressing apartment and its damned, depressing memories! I didn't feel much like eating but even less like cooking, so maybe going out somewhere for supper would be a good start. Somewhere where the music was playing and people were laughing and enjoying themselves! Hey, it's Friday night – Party Night! I'll put on a sexy outfit that'll get me enough masculine attention to take my mind off Matt. It's been a long time since I flirted with anyone! After taking a quick shower and brushing my hair to a coppery gleam, I applied a little extra makeup around my eyes to cover the residual redness, a go-to-Hell shade of lipstick I seldom used and opened my closet to select an outfit. My shortest skirt, naturally, a black A-line that came to mid-thigh. A semi sheer white tank top and lacy white bra to go underneath. Black stockings and black lace panties. Nice pair of black heels. Hmmm. Long chandelier earrings with black dangles and a slim watch so small I could barely read the time. Dumping the bare necessities of wallet, lipstick, brush, mirror and tissues into a small black clutch bag, I checked myself in the mirror. For the first time in a long time, I felt good about myself. Not too bad for an old spinster of twenty-eight, I decided and headed for my car. There was a place near work called The Back Room where I sometimes went for lunch. It advertised all sorts of themes for different nights, like Unplugged Tuesdays where the bands played all acoustical instruments – no electric guitars or amps and ear-blasting speakers allowed, which appealed, but I'd never actually been there at night. I couldn't remember what Friday's theme was supposed to be, but from some of the photos on the wall people tended to let their hair down and party hearty in the evenings! The food was good, and while I never had anything but iced tea at lunch, the drink menu looked pretty comprehensive. Why not? By the time I had parked in their lot I was having second thoughts, but refused to let me talk me myself out of it. I locked the car, lifted my head, tucked my purse under my arm and walked in. It was a little louder and more crowded than I remembered from lunchtime, but the noise seemed to come from people talking and laughing instead of over-amplified music so I located a small table and sat down. By the time I had arranged my skirt, a smiling little blonde waitress had deposited a menu in front of me. I already knew what I wanted, though: the 'Specialty of the House' was a bacon cheeseburger with peanut butter, which I'd heard about but had never had the courage to actually order! With fries, and a Michelob Amber Bock tap beer. (Yes, I know it's unladylike, but sometimes I really enjoy a good dark beer!) I looked around the room catching several men looking at me, which was gratifying, but most seemed engrossed in talking to each other. The waitress brought my Amber Bock, nicely drawn with a creamy, golden head and I took a cautious sip since I don't look my best with a foamy mustache. A few sips later, I looked around again; this time, everyone was talking animatedly to the others at their table. Before I could wonder what was going on, the answer became obvious as the waitresses walked around with remote controls and turned on the sound to the hundreds (or so it seemed) of TV sets that adorned every wall: football! I gave a silent groan. No woman alive could compete with a modern man's obsession with that! If I hadn't already ordered, I would have left. Trying to block out the inane blathering of the announcers, I noticed a woman sitting alone at the bar. What first caught my attention was that she was facing away from the TV in front of her; then it sank in that she was looking in my direction – not at my face, but at my legs under the high table. Was I showing too much? Nope, a quick kinesthetic check confirmed my knees were together, ankles crossed in a ladylike manner with one heel hooked over a rung of the tall stool I was sitting on. So what was she looking at? The room erupted in a loud cheer as something happened on the screen. I hadn't noticed and neither had the woman; well, it was flattering that she found me more interesting than the damned game! Obviously I wasn't going to attract the attention of any of the men around here, but at least I seemed to have hers. A quick glance around confirmed that everyone else was completely absorbed in the TV, and I knew every place in town would be the same. I've never tried to flirt with a woman before – why not have a little fun and try it? I decided, and walked slowly over to the wall with all the pictures. From the corner of my eye I could see that she was still looking at me, so I turned as if I were looking at some photos in the side wall but in a position where I could examine her without being obvious about it. Slender and tall with shoulder length wavy black hair, big green eyes and pale skin, she was no real beauty, but she did seem to make the most of what she had with flawless makeup and a silky black pantsuit over a ruffled white blouse. Returning to my seat, I decided to tease her a bit, just to see what would happen. Crossing my legs, I arched my foot, letting the shoe slip off my heel and dangle from my toes, then jiggled my leg a bit. I could feel my skirt ride a bit higher up my thigh. A shy smile seemed to light up the woman's emerald eyes as she licked her lips sensuously. Goodness – maybe she really was checking me out! The waitress brought my food, but eating was the last thing on my mind right now. My leg stopped moving. I wasn't sure how to react to the other woman; flattered had been my first feeling, sure, but what if it were more than that? Was she actually interested in me . . . sexually? I concentrated on my meal. The peanut butter was spread on the bottom bun, and the hot hamburger patty had melted it, making it drip on the fries and table. I didn't see where it added that much flavor, so what was the big deal? I tried, but couldn't keep my eyes off the tall woman with the black hair and green eyes at the bar. She seemed to sympathize with my fight against the dripping peanut butter, and we made frequent eye contact and exchanged smiles as I consumed as much of the huge burger as I could hold. Something about her was just so intriguing, but I couldn't put my finger on it. I did know I really liked the attention and feeling of connection after the months alone – it seemed like most of my friends were people I knew from when Matt and I were together, people I had avoided after he had dropped me. And (to be honest) I hadn't been interested in having anyone over after I had let the house go to pot, not wanting anybody to see the mess I lived in. I had a real urge to find out more about this woman, though; she was beginning to interest me. Making a production of wiping my fingers on the napkin, I slipped off the tall chair and walked toward the Ladies Room. As I got closer to the woman I smiled and she returned it. "Looks like you've been eating the house special with the runny peanut butter," she said in a low, husky voice. "You got me," I laughed. "Now I have to wash my hands, or maybe take a bath!" The last few words were drowned out by loud cheers as somebody on screen did something. She shook her head and stood up. "Can't hear you out here," she mouthed and followed me into the restroom. The door closed behind us bringing relative quiet, like getting out of a rainstorm. "Whew! That's better – I couldn't even hear myself out there. I was agreeing about the runny peanut butter, and saying I felt like taking a bath or at least washing my hands," I said as I turned on the faucet and squirted some soap onto my hands. "It is getting a bit loud," she agreed. "I noticed you trying to avoid the drips and remembered my first time. It sounded good, but I wasn't impressed with the end result." "Not something I plan to do again, let's say. But I haven't been out for a long time and got tired of my own cooking, so I was hoping for a reasonably quiet supper in a pleasant atmosphere. Almost wish I'd stayed home now, though. I'm Alyssa, by the way." "Nan, short for Nancy," she said and held out her hand. I took it, feeling her fingers warm against mine. Her slender body and slightly offbeat face seen up close under brighter light were even more interesting than before. "Nice to meet you, Nan," I smiled. "I hope you didn't think I was staring at you earlier, but you look really fantastic in that outfit! It's so seldom you see a woman in a skirt, heels and hose any more." "Why, thank you, Nan! You look nice and classy in that pants suit, too. As for me, I confess I don't usually get this dressed up for a burger and a beer, but I was feeling down earlier and decided to get sexied-up a little bit. I was hoping for some attention to make me feel better about myself, but it looks like I picked the wrong night," I said wryly. "Football! I can't believe how wacky everyone around here gets about it, even the women. Well, I think you look extremely sexy, myself. Like the way that lacy bra shows through under your tank top – very subtle, I didn't even notice it from a distance. And black stockings always look so glamorous to me; you've got perfect legs for them, too, Alyssa!" I savored the compliments; it was like fresh water on the wilted plant of my self-esteem. Maybe Nan was overdoing it a little, but she did seem sincere and I had to believe her cute little half smile was genuine. I squeezed her arm briefly. "Thanks. Hey, what about yourself – I'll bet those looong legs of yours would look great in a short skirt!" "Well, I think they're a little too skinny, myself, and I'm pretty self-conscious about my height . . . but I do love skirts, and I have one that's so short it's probably against the law!" "That's more like it," I laughed. "I'd love to see that one, Nan – the way I'm feeling right now, I might even buy one for myself!" As we walked back to the dining room I could sense she was hesitating about something, and I could only think of one thing it might be. I stopped and turned to her. "Hey, since you don't seem any more interested in the game than me, want to sit with me and chat a bit more?" From the look on her face, I had guessed right. "Sure," she said with a smile. "Let me grab my drink!" Everyone was talking excitedly, so the quarter must have ended. In order to hear each other, we had to put both stools on the same side of the little table and turn a little towards each other. I leaned over to get my mouth closer to her ear so I wouldn't have to shout, but forgot what I was going to say as I inhaled her fragrance. "What's that you're wearing?" I heard myself say. "It smells divine!" Nan's eyes widened as she looked at me. Oops – I may have gone too far with that remark, but it was the truth, darn it! "It's called 'Navy'," she replied. "I've always loved it – even wrote the manufacturer once to tell them. They wrote back and offered me a case discount," she laughed. "It was a nice gesture, but I don't use quite that much perfume!" She leaned a bit closer, and I felt her long hair brush against my cheek. "You smell pretty nice, yourself, Alyssa. What's that you have on? I don't recognize it." "It's that new Elizabeth Taylor perfume they put out not long before she passed away, called 'Violet Eyes'." I pushed aside the memory of Matt giving it to me. People around us began heading back to their tables and quieted down. Sitting here trying to talk above a football game wasn't how I had intended to spend my night, but I was enjoying chatting with Nan. Occasionally our shoulders would touch, and her leg seemed to brush against mine more than seemed accidental. Strangely, I didn't mind and found myself enjoying the contact, even initiating a little of my own. We finished our drinks just before the halftime show started, and everyone started wandering around talking loudly about the game so Nan and I reluctantly moved apart. "I'd suggest going someplace quieter, but I guess every place in town would be the same," I said. A harried looking waitress hurried by with a tray full of drinks, and stopped by the table on her way back. "Get you guys anything else?" she asked as she picked up the remains of my burger. "No, thank you," I replied and Nan shook her head with a smile. "It's just too loud in here," I explained. As we waited for our checks to be brought, Nan cleared her throat. "Like you said, every place in town is going to be as noisy as this. If you'd like to talk some more without having to scream you could come over to my apartment. It's not far, and I mix a pretty good R&C. I also have some nice wine and could make us something to snack on." I was a little apprehensive because it sounded like a pickup, and I really hadn't decided how far I wanted to let our teasing or flirting or whatever we were doing, go. On the other hand, I was finally out and enjoying myself and didn't want to go back to a lonely apartment full of sad memories just yet. "Sounds great," I told her with a smile. "Let's go!" I drove behind her for a mile or so to a fairly new and pleasant three story apartment building, and we took the stairs to the second floor. She had a small but pleasing one bedroom apartment with an open kitchen and combined living room and dining room. Large windows overlooked a swimming pool whose rippling water made strange patterns from the underwater lights. "Neat!" I said appreciatively. "Love that pool, except that looking at all that moving water reminds me I should have made a stop at the restroom before we left." "Straight down the hall," she said. "I was thinking the same thing, but guests go first." As she headed in for her turn, I reminded her of the 'illegally short' miniskirt she'd mentioned earlier. "So you're gonna model that so I can see it?" "Maybe." she said with a laugh. Back at the windows, I watched the pool as I listened to the sound of closet doors and drawers being opened and closed. She was changing into something, anyway. I hoped it was something more revealing than that pants suit; it did look classy, as I'd told her, but that long, loose jacket was very concealing and I didn't have much of an idea what her figure really looked like. Catching sight of her reflection in the window, I turned. Well, she had worn a miniskirt, and it probably would get her Banned in Boston and maybe a few other places! My first impression was of legs that seemed to go on forever. I noticed she had also changed from the black patent flats she had on before into a pair of two-and-a-half inch dress heels just like the ones I was wearing. I remembered her earlier remark, 'It's so seldom you see a woman in a skirt, heels and hose any more.'" It was true, and I had to admit that was part of my own definition of a sexy outfit, especially in her case. Her long legs, while slender, had very shapely calves and trim, toned thighs that I immediately envied. The short skirt emphasized Nan's narrow waist, and above that a lacy white blouse seemed to cling and caress a pair of firm, nice-sized breasts. I took a closer look and . . . "Nancy! Are you even wearing a bra under that blouse?" "No, I couldn't find one I liked. Why – do you think I need one?" she asked coquettishly. "Oh, Hell no! I just wasn't expecting . . . " "Well, I figured we weren't going out anywhere, mainly since there's no place to go, I might as well put on a sexy outfit like you. Hope I didn't go too far and offend you – I'll go put on a bra; I was just joking about not finding one." She turned back towards the bedroom and I rushed over to stop her. "I'm not offended at all, just surprised, like I said." Did I really want to go through with this? "In fact, I was just wondering how I'd look braless, myself. This top is kind of thin." Nan's smile came back a little hesitantly. "Well, if you're serious it's easy enough to find out. You can change in the bedroom, it's right through there." "Be right back." I looked around the bedroom as I pulled off my tank top and unhooked my bra. It was very feminine without being frilly, and neat like the rest of the apartment, I noted guiltily. She had a large full-length mirror – obviously someone who cared a great deal about her appearance. Slipping my tank top back on, I took in my reflection. My nipples jutted out against the fabric and even the pink of my areoles was faintly visible. I was getting a little aroused just looking at myself, and the idea of walking out and having Nancy see me was making me more so. I folded my bra neatly and lay it on the dresser, took a long, slow breath and walked out. The feel of my breasts swaying and bouncing slightly with each step was quite erotic, and so was Nan's smile as she watched me walk into the kitchen where she was making herself a drink. "You look fantastic, Alyssa! Very perky, I must say. What do you think?" "I think I might like to go out like this, after all! Not that anyone would pull their eyes away from the TV long enough to notice, though." She gave a low, throaty chuckle that sent little shivers up my spine. "Oh, I think they might," she said softly. "Would you like a drink while you're making up your mind? I have . . . " "Maybe one of your world-renowned R&Cs," I interrupted. "Coming right up! Go ahead into the living room and I'll bring these out." "Maybe I'll just stay here and watch you," I heard myself say, earning myself a big smile. She turned back to the counter and began slicing a lime. Seeing those long legs in the short skirt that barely covered her round, firm bottom was fascinating, and I kept looking until she turned and held out a glass. "Thanks." She touched her glass to mine with a tiny clink. I tried to think of a suitable toast, but couldn't. I followed her out to the living room and sat opposite her, noticing a little white triangle between her legs, only half-concealed under her sheer black pantyhose. A Taste of Strawberry Ch. 02 Part 2: A Taste of Mango I woke up feeling contented but a little disoriented. There was a warm body snuggling against my back and an arm draped over my waist, but I gave a start when I realized it wasn't Matt's. Something about the feel and scent fast-forwarded my mind through the events of last night when, too tired to face the drive home, I fell asleep in Nan's arms. It was hard to believe it had all really happened and I struggled to make sense of it. I should have felt ashamed and guilty about making love with another woman – and about walking out in the hall naked - but surprisingly all I could do was sigh and lace my fingers through hers. Nan was like no one I'd ever known, and waking up in her embrace felt so right! My romantic musings were cut short by the sound of a soft snore! A very genteel and ladylike snore, to be sure, but I had to suppress a giggle as reality rudely pushed idealism off the edge of the bed to fall clumsily on the floor. Smiling, I lifted our entwined hands to my breast and drifted back to sleep. The next time I awoke, it was to the smell of coffee and frying bacon. The bed beside me was empty, but when I rolled over I caught a lingering whiff of Nan's perfume. I was tempted to just go back to sleep, but the smell of breakfast and the need to pee got me going. My clothes were still in the living room, so I just pushed my hair out of my eyes and wended my way into the bathroom as I was. I didn't even think to close the door – it was as if I were alone in my own apartment – so I was able to see Nan walk past and look into the bedroom, wearing an apron and nothing else. Apparently clothes were optional this morning and she looked so cute with her bare bottom framed by a ruffled pink apron. Well, guess I wouldn't have chanced cooking bacon in the nude, either! "Alyssa?" "Over here." "Oh, sorry. Could I interest you in some breakfast? It's almost done." "Sounds great. Be right out, Nan." Washing up, I caught sight of myself in the mirror and smoothed my hair back into a semblance of order before heading toward the kitchen. "Hope you like your eggs scrambled 'cause I seem to have to have lost the knack for anything else here lately," Nan said with a smile as she handed me a cup of steaming coffee and gave me a soft kiss. "Mmmm, Sounds great to me!" We giggled and played footsie under the table as we ate. Afterward I helped her wash the dishes, feeling another twinge of guilt as I remembered the stack of dirty dishes cluttering my own sink. I gave a contented sigh when we had gotten the kitchen neat again and settled onto the living room couch with another cup of coffee. "Got any plans for the day, Alyssa?" "Oh, I really should go clean up my apartment, I guess. Seeing yours makes me acutely embarrassed about how bad I've let mine get." "Oh, come on. It can't be all that bad!" She pushed on my shoulder playfully, then leaned over to look at me closely. "Alyssa? What is it?" Before I could decide how much to tell her, she was on her feet pulling me up so quickly I almost spilled my coffee. "What . . .?" "Much as I hate to say it, you gotta get some clothes on if we're going go clean your apartment." "Nan, no! I wasn't trying to get you to help me – I can't let you do that!" "I'm bigger than you, and around here might makes right," she said as she dragged me over to my neatly folded clothes. She must have done that while I was asleep – I certainly didn't remember doing it last night. I didn't feel like wearing the same pair of panties again so, since we were only going to my place, I just stuck them in my purse. I started to put on my bra, then smiled and put it in my purse, too. The feeling of my nipples moving under the thin top was as exciting as it had been last night – this could get to be addictive! I heard her moving around the living room as I brushed my hair and applied some lipstick. She was zipping up a nylon carrying bag when I went in, noticing that she was wearing a short skirt, though not as short as last night's, mid-heels and hose. "That's not exactly a house-cleaning outfit, Nan." "Well, my French Maid costume is at the cleaners right now. Besides, what's wrong with it? I'm dressed the same way as you!" "Since this is all I have with me, I don't have much choice! I'll change when we get there." "Me, too," she said with a smile and a wink. I shook my head and went down to my car, undecided whether to be relieved or disappointed that we didn't pass anyone along the way to see me 'going bouncey-bounce' as Nan called it. The sky was starting to cloud over. "At least you picked the right day for it," she remarked. "Doesn't look like lying around the pool would be a viable option. Hey, whereabouts do you live?" "Not far," I replied, giving her the location of my apartment. "Do you know that Indian food store in the little mall across from the park? Would you mind swinging by there on the way? There's something I want to pick up – won't take but a minute." "No problem." I was enjoying the feel of the cool breeze coming in the window and lifting my skirt. It swirled around my legs and reminded me that I was pantyless in addition to being braless. "Listen, Nan, I have to apologize for my apartment. It's really an unholy mess, and . . ." Her hand on my knee stopped me and I glanced over. "And you're ashamed and embarrassed for anyone to see it, because you're usually a better housekeeper. Doctor Nancy diagnoses an acute case of depression, which will be a little less bad when we get finished . . . 'Lyssa! Red light!" I had been staring at her and not paying attention to my driving. The tires squealed a little as I braked at the last minute. "Sorry. How on earth did you know that?" I asked in a shaky voice. "I recognized the symptoms – let's just say I've been there myself. That look on your face earlier made it as easy as seeing red spots on your face and diagnosing measles. That'll be ten dollars – you can pay the receptionist on your way out." The light changed and I headed for the store. "I've seen this place before, but never been in," I commented as I parked. "All kinds of neat spices, Basmati rice, frozen Samosas – come on in and take a look." I glanced down at my nipples, fairly visible under the tank top. Nan smiled and winked. "I think you'll like it," she said ambiguously. An Indian woman in a sari was leaving the store as we walked down the sidewalk, and smiled as she held the door open for us. I felt my cheeks getting warm as I thanked her and stepped inside. "Bouncey-bounce," Nan whispered in my ear as we entered the store. It smelled like an Indian restaurant but even more intense and the shelves were loaded with colorful boxes, bags and cans, most of the labels in whatever language they speak in India – Hindi? Nan disappeared while I checked out the produce aisle and came back carrying a small bag. "Ready?" As we were leaving, a clerk came over to ask if we were finding everything we were looking for, then began chatting about some things we might like to try. It was funny, because his eyes kept dropping to my bust, then snapping back up to my face. I was beginning to enjoy the attention and turned slightly to point to something on a shelf and gave him a profile view. Another customer asked him something, so we said goodbye. "Well, it certainly looks like the girls enjoyed the trip!" she laughed after we got in the car, poking one of my hard nipples with a fingertip. "Absolutely," I confirmed, giving my breasts a quick squeeze. "Now I'm really gonna have trouble concentrating on my driving." My light-hearted mood evaporated as soon as I opened my apartment door. "Well," Nan said as she surveyed the living room and headed for the kitchen, "nothing here we can't handle. Mainly clutter – grab a couple of garbage bags, then I'll introduce you to my sure-fire method of beating depression while cleaning. The first step is mental attitude: take off your clothes." "Huh?" "Take off your clothes," she repeated. "Everything's more fun when you're naked, even cleaning!" Laughing, she grabbed my hand and dragged me into the bedroom. After stripping and hanging our clothes neatly in the closet, she stepped back into her pumps. "I prefer to wear heels when I'm cleaning 'cause it makes me feel naughty, but that's optional. Next, always try to have something processing in the background while you work." She lifted the overflowing laundry basket off the floor of the closet and started sorting clothes on the bed. "Why don't you measure out the detergent and start the washer filling? We'll do the permanent press stuff first." After a brief pause to watch Nan's breasts sway gently as she bent over the bed, I stepped into a pair of my own low-heeled pumps and started the washer. She handed me the clothes basket, patted my fanny and disappeared into the living room. Just as I closed the lid, the sound of music in some language I didn't recognize filled the air. "What's that?" "It's called 'Ein Bisschen Frieden', German for 'A Little Freedom' – no, wait – that's Freiheit. Maybe it's 'Peace', I forget. We need some motivation, not to mention energy, and German music's great for that!" "You speak German?" "A little, but mainly I just enjoy their music and don't worry too much about trying to translate it. If you don't care for it, just say so and we'll switch to something else." "It's fine – kinda upbeat but . . . unusual. I like it so far. What next?" "The rules. You look at this and tell yourself 'This is such a huge mess! I'll never get this all cleaned up!', right?" "Uh, yeah, that's pretty much it. Then I get more depressed and end up doing nothing." "I know. Think you could spend ten minutes cleaning? That's all, just ten minutes." "Sure, but we can't accomplish much in ten minutes. At least not without a bulldozer!" "Set your oven timer or whatever for ten minutes, please, Alyssa. Now let's see how much we can accomplish in ten minutes. Grab a garbage bag and and start tossing anything that doesn't directly affect your life, health or finances! Feel the music and go!" Getting into the spirit, I began swaying in time to the music and going through the stacks of catalogs, junk mail, empty Cheetos bags and so on. Since I always wore clothes, even when I was alone in the apartment, it felt strange to be completely bare – especially with someone else around. I was very aware of my unconfined breasts moving as I worked. When the buzzer sounded, the bag was almost a quarter full and there was a small area of counter top visible for the first time in weeks. Nan reset the timer for twenty minutes, grabbed my hand and led me to the living room. When I started to talk about how much was still left to do, she shushed me. "We need to take your mind off the damned cleaning or you'll talk yourself out of ever going back to it," she muttered and used the 'next track' button on my CD player to skip a few songs. "Ganz In Weiss – All in White" she translated before I could ask. Taking my right hand with her left, she slipped her arm around my waist and began dancing to the gentle, lilting sound of a man's deep voice. I rested my head on her shoulder and lost myself in the music and the familiar scent of Navy, the mess in the kitchen forgotten for the moment. The next song was by a woman, the beat a little faster. We moved into a sort of Fox Trot rhythm – Nan was an excellent dancer – and finished out the album. Lowering both arms around my waist, she leaned in and kissed me. The taste of her lipstick, the feel of her hands sliding over my hips, the pressure of her breasts just above mine all assaulted my senses as thunder rolled in the background and the drumming of rain on the windows filled the room. When the timer sounded, it took a second to shift back to the external world. "Time for round two," she whispered in my ear as she gave my bottom a last squeeze and pulled away. "Nan, I . . . " "Come on. This is therapy, remember? Time to get back to to work . . . for ten minutes, anyway." The ten minutes passed in a blur, as did the next and the next, until the growling in both our tummies couldn't be ignored any longer. "What do you have to feed your labor force, slave driver?" came her gentle husky voice. "Not much," I admitted sheepishly. "Then I hereby declare a Pizza Emergency," Nan said with a grin. "It's the Universal Specific, you know. I assume you have the nearest pizza parlor on the speed dial of your phone, so what kind do you want?" "Pepperoni, I guess." "My favorite, too. Why don't you order us one, thin crust if that's okay with you - my treat." "Half hour to forty minutes," I reported after hanging up the phone. "Good," said Nan as she set the timer again. "Time enough for another round." "Now who's the slave driver," I complained good naturedly. Actually, I was quite pleased with what we'd accomplished – the permanent press was hung in the closet and my towels, jeans and such were nearing the end of their wash cycle. The dishes were in the washer instead of the sink and the junk from the counter, table and computer area was in garbage bags ready to be hauled off to the dumpster. "Getting close to pizza time," Nan announced as she looked up from scrubbing the stove top and glanced at the clock. "Do we want to get dressed or do what everyone on the Internet seems to post videos of doing, and answer the door like this?" "Do people really do that?" I asked, kind of intrigued. "Supposedly. I've seen several videos of it, though some of the viewer's comments claim they were just staged, so I can't say for sure." "What about you - have you ever done it?" "No, but I have fantasized about it a time or three!" she admitted with a grin. The idea was kind of interesting, the more I thought about it. I was getting comfortable with my – and her – nudity, and the thought of answering the door like this sent little ripples through my grey matter. Walking topless in the hallway last night had awakened something buried deep inside me I had never recognized before. Had it been there all along or was it just Nan's bad influence? I looked at the smiling face of my Bad Influence and had to smile back. "Let's do it!" After wiping off the now empty table and setting out the Parmesan cheese and napkins, we touched up our lipstick and hair. "I can't believe we're actually doing this!" "Me, either," Nan confessed. "I've watched the videos and, well, gotten off imagining what it would be like, but now that it's really about to happen . . . listen, Alyssa – remember that we don't have to go through with it. All we need to do is have some robes or coverups handy in case we get cold feet at the last moment! This is more my fantasy than yours, and I don't want to talk you into something you don't want to do!" I hugged her tightly and whispered, "It's become mine, too, so don't worry. But you're right; it never hurts to have have a safety net, just in case." After some discussion, we decided we should at least put on our panties – 'answering the door topless' didn't sound quite as illegal as 'answering the door naked', should someone complain. I had put two robes by the door and both of us were watching the clock, fidgeting like horses waiting for the race to start. I was scared and excited all at the same time; from terminal depression the day before, I was zinging through a whole gamut of emotions. I glanced over at Nan, whose parted lips and quick breathing echoed my own. She feels it, too, just like me! The sound of the doorbell made us both jump. I glanced at Nan, crossed my fingers then looked through the door's peephole, revealing a guy in his early twenties holding a pizza. I bit my lip. Last chance to back out. A second ring sounded. I went into the scenario we had discussed, opening the door a bit and peering out. "Oh - it's the pizza already," I said loudly, though it came out more like a squeak. "Sorry, didn't expect you this soon! A friend was helping me clean house, and we're not really dressed for visitors yet. Do you mind? If you want to wait just a minute, we can go get more presentable." "Not a problem, I've got other deliveries to make so don't worry about how you look," he said cheerfully. With this unwitting endorsement, I took a shaky breath, thought about it one more time, then pulled the door open wide. Nan had moved to stand beside me, and the look in his eyes as they flicked back and forth between us raised my internal thermostat almost to meltdown level! I didn't know what it was about standing half-naked in front a complete stranger that affected me this way, but my senses were working overtime as I reveled in the sensations that coursed through my mind and body like liquid fire! "Whoa! You guys always do housework like this?" "Not really," Nan chimed in. "She's always done hers in jeans and a baggy sweatshirt and I've always done mine completely naked. I'm trying to convince her it's more fun that way, but this as far as I've gotten." "Definitely looks like fun, all right!" "Well, I'm glad I didn't offend you by answering the door like this. It feels kind of funny to be standing here talking to you while I'm practically naked, but to tell the truth, I'm really enjoying it!" I said with a smile. "So am I!" he answered quickly. "Wish more of my customers answered the door that way, at least the good-looking women. You, uh, you have great looking breasts - both of you," he smiled to include Nan. "Thank you," she dimpled. "I'm kind of proud of them." Her hands trembled slightly as she lifted them and squeezed gently, causing her nipples to thrust out even further. "Hey, I really do have some other deliveries to make, so I gotta run, but let me know when you convince your friend to do her housework in the nude, too, okay? I'd sure like to see that!" "When I do," Nan smiled as she took the pizza box out of his unresisting hands and reached for her purse, "we'll order another pizza to celebrate and ask for you to deliver it. What's your name?" "Andy," came the swift reply. "And, hey, this pizza's on the house!" Impulsively, I stepped over and gave him a hug. "Why, thank you, Andy." Moving away, I expected Nan to do the same, but she hesitated and he turned and opened the door. "Enjoy your pizza!" he said over his shoulder, taking one last, long look at the two of us before closing it. We stood there grinning at each other like happy idiots, then Nan said in a shaky voice "Oh, Alyssa - that was so damned incredible! Don't you just LOVE being a woman and being able to do things like this?" For an answer I threw my arms around her neck, went up on tiptoes and kissed her with all the heat that had been building up inside me. Nan bent her knees, wrapped her arms just below my fanny and straightened. With my feet completely off the floor, I clung to her more tightly and devoured the inside of her mouth with my tongue. Thinking of what we had just done and the 'forbidden fruit' sensation of kissing another woman was sending little electric tingles throughout my body. I was more aroused than I've ever been been in my life! Lowering me back to the floor, Nan's hands moved over my back. Her fingernails traced down each each side of my spine before cupping my cheeks and pulling me tightly against her. "You're hot as a firecracker down there, girl!" "You feel pretty fiery in that area, yourself," I replied as my hands clenched her firm butt and I leaned back, rubbing myself against her. The nylon of our panties made little swishing sounds that were barely audible above our breathing. "Oh, 'Lyssa, that was everything I ever fantasized it would be! I feel like I'm about to explode in a cloud of sparks! Um, would it bother you if I went into the bathroom and did something about it?" A Taste of Strawberry Ch. 03 Part 3: A Taste of Contentment If you haven't read the first two parts of this story, you might be interested as they set up the background for this one. But if you're only interested in the transsexual aspect, start here. Background:A twenty-eight year old woman named Alyssa has been dumped by her boyfriend, Matt. After almost three months of depression and apathy, she decides to go to a bar for supper and a bit of of flirting to try and restore her self-esteem. All the men are too busy watching the football game on television to notice her, but one woman keeps looking at her instead of the game. They end up going to Nancy's apartment to escape the noise and Alyssa discovers Nan's interest in exhibitionism . . . and in her. This one starts the next evening after they've ordered a pizza for lunch at Alyssa's apartment and answered the door topless for the deliveryman . . . We had ended up back at Nan's apartment for supper, since my pantry was was still bare. And, after a long kiss inside the door, we soon were too. I was really beginning to enjoy doing everyday tasks in the nude! I helped her broil some chicken breasts and prepared a salad while she steamed some mixed vegetables and made some herb butter to toss them in. White German wine set it off as we ate by candlelight, our legs touching beneath the table. After cleaning up the kitchen, we sat next to each other on the love seat with another glass of wine. "Hey," I remarked, "you mentioned you had taken some nudie photos in the hallway and laundry room. Could I take a look at those?" Nan chuckled and led the way to a desk on the side wall with a large flat screen monitor. There was only an office style chair in front of it, so I grabbed another from the table as a shot of the familiar laundry room appeared on the screen. The next one showed her in a light pullover dress with a laundry basket. She looked pale and a little haggard, with hollow cheeks and much shorter hair than she had now, like she'd been ill – or had been through some emotional crisis, I thought. In the third she was pulling the dress off, her raised arms lifting her breasts to point her nipples at the ceiling. I smiled and squeezed her knee. "Wow, you really did it, didn't you? What did it feel like?" "Exciting and terrifying," she replied with a shake of her head. "I felt totally schizophrenic: I wanted someone to come in and see me – that would have been so thrilling! But I was also scared to death that if someone did, they'd get upset and complain to the manager or even to the police, and maybe I'd be evicted and forced to move. But this was something I wanted very badly to do; and, Alyssa, standing there in the laundry room completely naked was absolutely exhilarating! I just had to keep going, I couldn't take enough pictures. Then I . . . well, you'll see in a few more pictures." The next photos showed her tossing her dress in the washer, then closing the lid. She posed sitting on the washer with her long legs crossed, then standing by the Coke machine, in front of the door and finally opening it with the empty clothes basket in her hand, the hall clearly visible, like she was walking back to her apartment. The smile that had been missing in that first picture lit up all of these; she was clearly having the time of her life! I found myself sharing her excitement. "Nan, did you actually walk back down the hall to your apartment naked? "Of course – you saw me putting my dress in the washer!" Then she relented and smiled. "No, not really. After that shot, I took it back out and kept it out of sight in rest of the pictures, but it was handy just in case. I put my dress back on, set up the camera for the door shot and checked the hall and stairwell before coming back, taking it off and taking the picture. As I was coming back with the camera on the tripod, though, I was so wired that I set it back up and took these." She pressed the page down key to reveal a shot of her standing beside the sign on the corridor wall showing room numbers and arrows. Several more followed, both front and rear views, and I gave a little shiver of arousal looking at her. Nan could post these on the web and have a million fans! She opened another folder with a similar series, but this time she was wearing high heels and looked more like herself, saucy and smiling, a sparkle in her green eyes. In the last one she stood in the hallway the way I remembered her from last night: hands on her hips, shoulders back and breasts thrust proudly forward. I thought of the old Helen Reddy song, I Am Woman; Nan in this pose would have made the perfect cover picture for that album! Another folder showed the sandy shore of a narrow lake with the opposite shore covered in large trees down to the waterline. "A county park way east of town off Highway 14," she explained. "I went there early one morning with my camera and it was deserted, the way I'd hoped." The next was of her standing naked in front of a sign titled "Beach Rules" followed by pictures of her walking on the sand with the early morning sun highlighting her curves, then with her foot on a railing by what was probably the area behind the changing rooms. Pictures aren't usually as stimulating for me as the written word, physical sensations and just 'romance' for lack of a better word, but tonight was an exception. I'd already overloaded with the feel and taste of Nan's sweet body, and of her lips and tongue, the emotional thrill of our experience answering the door in just our panties for the guy who delivered our pizza and then that lovely candlelight dinner. Now these pictures of her nude in public places were pushing me over the edge – before she could look for any more, I turned and wrapped my arms around her. Licking her lips before slipping my tongue between them, I pressed my breasts against hers and moved them from side to side; every time our nipples slid over one another it felt like an electric charge was passing through them. I've never been quite this aggressive with men, but it was different with Nan; I felt we were equals, and if I happened to be horny – which I was, very – it was all right for me to take the lead. It was a very liberating feeling and her response proved she was enjoying the sensation, too. Her tongue teased and flirted with mine and her hands squeezed my waist before moving down to slide lovingly over my hips and thighs. Visualizing those red fingernails moving over my skin added fervor to my kiss; my hand moved through her long, soft hair and pulled her tighter to me as my eager tongue devoured her mouth. I thought about taking her in my arms and carrying her to bed as she had done with me last night but much as I wanted to, it was a long way to the bedroom and I was afraid I'd end up dropping her on the floor. Instead, I stood and took her hand. "I want you," I stated simply and she rose to follow me into the bedroom. * * * * * Several hours later we made our way into the kitchen, got another glass of wine and returned to the living room. Instead of turning on the lights, Nan opened the curtains and let the backwash of the outside lights add a soft glow to the room. "Hey, what happened to the swimming pool lights? They looked so neat last night!" "It's probably closed now." She looked at the stove clock in the kitchen. "Yep, past ten-thirty. They turn off the lights then." "Too bad. Hey, you said something last night about a rumor that people went skinny-dipping after it was closed. Have you ever done it?" She gave me a little squeeze. "I've never quite had the courage to try that yet. As I said, I don't think anyone else really does it – which isn't to say that we can't, of course, if we really want to." "Well, I've never done it before, either, so I don't know for sure, but I think it might be fun!' Nan checked the clock again. "The pool has been closed about twenty minutes now. Let's give it a few minutes longer, then go down and check. If most of the windows overlooking the pool are dark, we might give it a try." "So how long have you been into exhibitionism? This is all really new to me, but it certainly is exciting!" She thought for a moment, then said "Since I was a child, really. I honestly can't remember a time when I didn't want to be naked, especially in front of other people. I keep trying to suppress it, but it just keeps popping out again! And you've really never had the urge yourself?" "Nope, not until today. Slow starter, I guess, but walking out in front of you without a bra last night, knowing how much my nipples showed through that white tank top, then out in your hallway . . . and then answering the door topless today! I don't think I've ever been so turned on in my life, Nan, seriously." "I can tell," she said with a grin. I didn't even have to glance down at my nipples – I could feel how tight and hard they were. Then suddenly I COULD visualize myself walking into the pool wearing nothing but a smile, a feeling so intense I felt a longing to go out and do it immediately! It was crazy, because normally I wouldn't even consider such a thing. I mean, I have no problem wearing sexy or revealing clothes; I enjoy it, to be honest. But going out in a public place, even if the chances of being seen were small, with absolutely nothing on was a completely foreign idea to me! Well, answering the door topless had been, too, until I did it earlier. And seeing those pictures of Nan naked in the laundry room, hallway and beach . . . We talked about it some more as we sipped our wine and I became more excited about the idea. "Pool's been closed over an hour now, and most of the windows I see are either dark or have the blinds closed. Ready for another little adventure, Alyssa?" "You can't believe how ready I am," I assured her in a voice that shook slightly. "Hey, how are we gonna work this? I hadn't even thought about the mechanics or tactics or whatever you call it?" Her plan was simple; after finishing our wine to calm our - or at least my - nerves, we undressed, put on beach coverups with simple belt ties, grabbed some towels and headed for the pool. It was deserted and both the underwater lights and overhead lights were off. We walked slowly around the perimeter, checking for people looking out their windows or walking around. My stomach felt almost queasy from anticipation and from fear, but I had no intention of backing out now! We had almost completed our circuit and everything was looking good when Nan grabbed my arm and pulled me deeper into the shadows. I heard the gate on the other side of the pool open and watched two people enter. A slender guy and a shorter, rather chubby woman, both in their mid-twenties, I judged. They looked around, but not as thoroughly as we had, then dropped their towels on a pair of lounge chairs and quietly walked down the steps into the water without removing their bathing suits. We waited a few more minutes, but no one else showed up. The couple was still in the pool talking softly and didn't seem to be leaving any time soon. I thought about simply walking out, setting down my towel and taking off my coverup, just as though I really had a bathing suit underneath! While that idea definitely increased my heartbeat and sent little tinglies all the way down to my toes, it could also get Nan kicked out of her apartment if the couple freaked. Maybe I could walk over and just chat a bit to get an idea of what they were like. A whispered conversation with Nan revealed that she seemed more nervous than I. "How about this: you wait here so no one sees your face," I told her. "Depending on what happens, you can join us if you want or leave and I'll meet you back at your apartment. Nobody even needs to know you're here, OK?" She gave me a grateful look and a brief hug before I walked towards the pool steps as if I had just arrived. "Hi," I greeted the couple as I lay my towel on a chair. They gave me a cheery greeting and the expected 'Come on in, the water's fine' joke. Seeing my opening, I acted like I was embarrassed before slowly saying, "I'd better not. I, uh, I heard that people go skinny-dipping after the pool's closed, so I didn't wear a suit." I kind of shrugged my shoulders and gave a shy giggle, then waited to see what the reaction to that remark would be. "We heard that same rumor and came down to check it out," the woman said in a pleasant contralto. "We just didn't have enough faith to come as prepared as you did! So come on in if you want to, it's fine with us. Right, Tommy?" "Sure, come on in!" he said enthusiastically. Well, well, well - kindred spirits after all – that's what I was hoping for. I looked at the woman, realizing she was waiting for me to commit before she did anything, smart girl. Well, I didn't mind going first, not at all. With one last look around the area to make sure we didn't have any other company, I took a deep breath and undid my belt. My hands were shaking as I slowly opened the coverup, slipped it off and dropped it next to my towel. Even looking down at myself, I could scarcely believe I was actually standing out here stark naked! Opening the door to my own apartment this afternoon topless was one thing, but this was outside in a public place with no door to close. My mind whirled, and I felt a thrill of excitement course through me. Why had I waited so long? I really hoped Nan was looking, and that she'd decide to come out and join us. I walked slowly to the steps, staring into the eyes of the couple in the pool, enjoying their surprised but approving looks. Stretching languorously on the top step, I breathed in the scent of the night air and reveled in the feel of the breeze on my bare skin, its coolness contrasting with the heat that had blossomed between my legs. "Feels good," I said softly. "This is the first time I've ever done this, and I just love it!" Holding the handrail for some needed balance – I felt a bit light-headed – I entered the water and walked over to them. "I'm Laura," said the woman, holding out her hand. "And this is my husband, Tommy. Is this really your first time?" I introduced myself and shook both hands, thinking how oddly formal this all was, considering the circumstances, before answering Laura's question. "Yes, this is the first time I've ever gone skinny-dipping, or even thought about it, for that matter." I had to phrase the next part delicately, so as not to implicate Nan. Since she had yet to make an appearance, I assumed she didn't want to be recognized by people in her apartment building. I understood, because not very long ago, I would have felt the same way. I guess it's easier to be . . . uninhibited with people you've never seen before and probably will never see again. I forced myself to concentrate. "Until I heard that rumor, that is. Then I found myself unable to to forget it. I . . . I don't know how to say this. I suddenly found myself fantasizing about what it would be like, and counting the minutes until the pool closed. It's so unlike me, but . . . " My rambling monologue was cut short by the sound of the gate closing, and everyone seemed to hold their breath. Into the reflected light from the apartment building walked a tall, nude, raven-haired goddess. Nan had decided to join the party after all, and what an entrance! Her pale skin seemed to glow in the low light, accentuated by her long black hair and the neatly trimmed black triangle between her legs. With swaying hips and jiggling breasts, she walked the length of the pool and paused by the steps. "Good evening," she whispered in that low sultry voice of hers. "May I join you?" "Hello!" "Sure!" and "Come on in!" we echoed. She set down her towel, then gracefully entered the pool then waded over to us. Another round of introductions followed. We pretended to be meeting each other for the first time. Unlike Laura's and mine, her perfect breasts were in plain view just above the water, and I felt a sharp sensation of love and lust. "Well, Tommy - looks like we're a little overdressed for this party," Laura said suddenly. "Let's head on home." I was shocked and even Tommy looked surprised. "Hold on, Laura!" I said as I grabbed her arm. "That's not fair - you two were here first, so if anyone leaves it's going to be us. Right, Ann?" I continued, deliberately misremembering her name to confuse things if Laura decided to say something to the manager. "Absolutely," she replied quickly. "You two stay here and enjoy yourselves. Nice meeting you." "I didn't mean to chase you off," said Laura. "You didn't," I told her, patting her shoulder as I waded past. "It's getting late anyway and I have to work tomorrow. Good night." It was a lie, but my mother had always told me it never hurts to be gracious. Nan had almost completed a cursory job of drying off, so I took a few extra seconds with my own toweling and donning my coverup to give her time to get out of sight. A last glance at the pool revealed Tommy still looking at me while Laura faced the other way, so I gave him a little wave before walking off. I was puzzled by Laura's behavior, but not too unhappy; I was looking forward to getting back to Nan! I still carried the picture of her walking naked along the length of the pool - she must have left her coverup in the bushes, then just opened and closed the gate to make it sound like she'd come down from her room that way. Wow! She was waiting for me on the landing of the stairwell. "You OK?" she called down anxiously. "Other than a slight case of 'Did-I-really-DO-that?', I am fanTAStic!" I assured her as I rushed up the stairs, pounced on her and hugged her as hard as I could. "Oof! Calm down, Alyssa - you sounded like a whole herd of stampeding water buffalo coming up those stairs! You want to wake up the entire building?" All this scolding was somewhat mollified by the smile in her voice as she said it. "By the way, what do you think happened with that gal Laura? I thought I saw and heard pretty much everything that went on, and she seemed pretty open and comfortable at first." "I don't get it, either - first she says they came to see if the rumors about skinny-dipping were true, which I took to mean they were going to participate, or at least watch. Then SHE invited ME to come in the pool in the altogether! Oh, well - doesn't matter as long as she doesn't complain to anyone, and I don't think she will." Nan unlocked her door and stepped into the apartment without turning on the light. "Let's not make it too obvious which apartment we came from, just in case. I wonder if they're still out there?" A peek out the window revealed both of them drying off, apparently getting ready to leave. "Odd. Maybe she got cold feet at the last minute." "Or maybe she just didn't like the competition," I added with a smile. "That was a pretty spectacular entrance you made, and Tommy couldn't keep his eyes off you!" "Or off you, for that matter. Laura is certainly pretty, but she is a bit overweight, so maybe you're right. Anyway, tell me what you thought about your latest adventure, Alyssa!" I quickly slipped off my coverup and dropped it on the coffee table. We stood there in the dark, reliving our experience. "I had no idea how incredibly exciting it would be!" I said for probably the tenth time. "Thank you for showing me this, Nan! Why did I wait do long? I hope we can do lots more stuff like this!" I took her in my arms, feeling the coolness of her still-damp skin, kissing her neck before going on tiptoes to press my lips to hers. "You know, I could get used to this. You're definitely the world's best kisser!" I felt her stiffen and her warm breath against my ear as she whispered, "Alyssa? There's something I have to tell you before we go any further . . ." I wasn't in the mood for any confessions or protestations right now. I interrupted her: "Nan, you don't have to say anything! I already know, and it's all right, believe me."