5 comments/ 28395 views/ 23 favorites Passion and Politics By: TE999 Hello and welcome to my readers. My thanks for your votes, PC's and E-mails on my previous submittals. Kudos and roses to my editor for her patience and helpful advice. -------------------------- "That's our show for a sunny Friday. Thanks for tuning in. This is Susan Tyler reminding you that as long as I'm on the Right, you'll be alright." Susan waited a moment before removing her headphones, listening to Mike Goodman's mellow baritone announcing "This WCLK Clear Lake City, the place for talk and news when you need it," over the closing bars of her theme song. Flicking the switches on her console and pushing the microphone to one side, she removed her earphones and fluffed her short black hair. Swiveling her neck to get the kinks out, she looked at the window of the broadcast engineers' booth and saw Ben Stadler the station manager standing next to Mike. Catching Susan's eye, he gave her two thumbs up and a big grin. Oh crap, Susan thought disgustedly, What's Ben doing here. This can't be good, that's for sure. The only time he smiles like that is when he's gonna tell me something that'll piss me off. She pushed her swivel chair away from the console and walked toward the control room door. Ben met her halfway, a smile still pasted on his ruddy features. "Great show, Susan," he burbled. "The way you handled that caller complaining about the way the police handled that animal rights demonstration in the park was, inspiring, might I say brilliant." Susan cocked an eyebrow. "Okay Ben," she said acidly. "We've worked together too long for you to try that phony complement act with me. What's the bad news. Spill it." Ben's face fell into it's usual scowl. "Can't bullshit you can I Susan? I should know better. C'mon in my office, I have someone I want you to meet." As they walked down the hall, Susan's mind was racing. Now what's the problem.It can't be the lawyer for that kook I punched out in the mall last week, legal department settled that one. Just because he didn't like my monologue on the City Council election, he thought he could scream in my face and get away with it. "Take nothing from nobody," she muttered under her breath as Ben opened his office door and waved her in with an exaggerated flourish. Susan was surprised to see 'Colonel' Bob Allen the station's owner seated on Ben's sofa. As he stood to greet her, his stained cowboy hat fell from his lap and a shock of yellow white hair fell across his forehead. "Susan," he boomed, "How's my favorite talk radio conservative? I'll bet you're giving those liberal callers fits. I've been out at the ranch a lot lately. Don't listen to the station much when I'm there. It's calving season, you know." Dammit, I'll bet I'm being fired again! Oh well, won't be the first time. "C'mon in and have a seat young lady," said 'Colonel' Bob, patting the cushion next to him. "We have a big surprise for you." Susan sat down next to the 'Colonel', crossing her jean-clad legs demurely. I hope the old letch doesn't grab my knee again. I thought I'd never get rid of him at the last Broadcasting Awards dinner. I should just tell him I'm not interested in men, except it would probably give him a heart attack. Hey, at least he couldn't fire me... Ben began to speak, interrupting her thoughts. "Susan, I bet you're wondering what this is all about," Ben said as he sat on the edge of his desk. "The 'Colonel' and I have decided to change your programs format a bit." Susan's back stiffened at Ben's words, her face an impassive mask. "Now Susan," Ben continued, carefully avoiding her intense gaze. "We know you have the highest ratings for your time slot and you have an impressive amount of steady listeners, but some of the stockholders feel that we need to have more balance on the show. You know, equal time for the other side, a liberal point of view." Susan was seething. Steady, girl, this isn't the time to blow up. Let's see what they have to say. "What did you two have in mind," she said in a tight voice, "I'm all ears." She winced; Ben was wearing that phony smile again. "Susan, we're giving you a new show in your time slot, one with a liberal co-host, someone who will provide a counterpoint to your opinions and offer a different point of view on the issues of the day." Ben pressed a button on his desk, "Jane, would you send in our new co-host please." Susan relaxed slightly. Bring on this liberal twit, she thought, her competitive spirit rising. I'll bet he's one of those wimpy girly-men always wanting to get along with everybody. I'll wrap him around my little finger and make him my on-air stooge. This is going to get interesting, I can feel it. She sat up straight on the couch, thrusting her ample breasts against her 'Support the Troops' t-shirt. Her jaw dropped as a stunning blonde woman walked into the room, her tight blouse and short skirt emphasizing her firm breasts and shapely legs. Susan's steely grey eyes locked with the other woman's smoldering dark green as they looked appraisingly at each other. "Let me introduce you ladies," the 'Colonel' boomed. "Susan Tyler, I'd like you to meet Becky Manning, your new co-host." Susan arose from the couch, her eyes never leaving Becky's steady gaze. "Hi Becky," she said warmly, extending her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you." Becky reached out and clasped Susan's hand, her face widening into a smile. When their hands met and their skin touched, a pleasurable tingle passed between them. Susan suddenly felt very warm. "Hi Susan," Becky replied, a flush rising in her cheeks. "It's really nice to meet you. They stood motionless, hands gripped tightly and staring into each other's eyes. Then they both sat together on the couch, knees barely touching, flustered and curious by their reactions to one another. "Now ladies," said the 'Colonel' heartily, "I think it would be best if you would take some time to get to know each other. We'll have our first broadcast a week from Monday. Susan, we're bringing 'Smiling Jack' Preston up from 'Morning Drive Club' to fill in for you next week, maybe do a 'Best Of' show on Friday." Ben arose from his seat on the desk and handed each of them a bulging manila envelope. "Here's a run-down on the final format of the new program and some CD's of your former shows. That way you can get used to each others on-air styles." Both women took the envelopes absently, still focused on each other. The 'Colonel' patted Bob on the back, "See Bob, you had nothing to worry about, they seem to be getting along." Bob nodded, "Yeah, what a relief. They're both strong personalities and I thought there would be fireworks. I think everything's gonna work out." *** Becky walked slowly to her car. Susan had invited her to the pub in the next block for a drink. She seems nice and I need to get to know her if we're going to be working together., Sliding behind the wheel of her Volvo station wagon, she sat there for a moment, coming to grips with the fact that she had reached the big time at last. She'd paid her dues at four small stations, working her way up the ladder. She thought her career stalled until the phone call last Friday. Now here she was, 800 miles away from her old job, working with a top rated conservative radio host and a woman at that. She parked in front of 'Fessenden's Pub', locked the car door and headed inside. *** Susan saw Becky walk in and waved to her from the booth. Her new co-host saw her and waved back. Sauntering over, she sat down and said, "What are you drinking there, Susan?" "Guinness Stout," she replied, "care for a mug, I'm buying." Becky wrinkled her nose, "Ew, no. But I'll have a glass of Merlot." Susan grinned and signaled to a passing server. While they were waiting, Susan said, "You really surprised me today. I expected some wimpy little man I could make a fool of on the air, now…" "Now you have me," Becky interrupted with a chuckle. "Really, I expected I'd be working with some blowhard of a man who was a sexist, narrow minded nitwit. But now…" "You have me," Susan finished for her. They both began to laugh, beginning to enjoy each other's company. Three mugs of stout and four glasses of wine later, they were chatting like old friends. Their careers had taken essentially similar paths. Both of them had earned degrees in Broadcast Journalism from different universities and worked at the campus radio stations. Both had started as fill-ins and then low-rated weekend talk show hosts. Both had worked at small radio stations, slowly moving into larger markets until Susan had cracked this major market. Now, Becky was about to do the same. Naturally, the discussion turned to politics and the verbal jousting became intense. The subject matter ranged from nuclear proliferation to the Middle East conflicts, from abortion to gun control, censorship to freedom of speech. Both were skilled professionals who held strong beliefs and could argue their cases well. After almost three hours of debate, they laughingly called it a draw. Becky and Susan sat sipping their drinks and exchanging grins. Each recognized a worthy opponent when they met one and felt a newfound respect for one another. In addition, they each felt something else as well. Becky was on her fourth glass of wine and her tongue was becoming loose. Besides, she was feeling comfortable with Susan, even though they had just met. Hell, I'll just ask her. "So, Susan," she said with a grin, "Why isn't a good looking woman like you married by now? Susan looked at Becky with narrowed eyes. She was getting nosey considering they had just met. However, the three mugs of stout she had drunk were making her mellow. "I guess I never met the right girl," she replied evenly. Becky's eyes widened, "Oh my God, my gaydar was right. Rock-ribbed Conservative Susan Tyler is a lesbian!" Susan raised an eyebrow, "Yep, and my gaydar tells me I'm not the only one." Becky nodded, smiled and covered Susan's hand with her own. "We're going to make a great team, Susan. I'm really looking forward to working with you. Maybe we can go…" Susan felt her cell phone vibrate in her pocket. Damn, this was just getting interesting, now who… She flipped it open and saw the caller ID. "I gotta meet some one, Becky. Sorry to drink and run." I mean it, too. What lousy timing… "Stop by my place tomorrow, we can run through some show prep. Say ten or so." "I'll be there, Susan. It was good talking to you," Becky said, a wistful tone in her voice. "You too," Susan replied, suddenly feeling sad, "Gotta run, bye." As Susan walked out the door, she turned around and saw Becky looking after her. They both waved, and then Susan was gone. *** Susan wheeled her Mustang into the Burger Barn parking lot, circling the building until she saw a red Mitsubishi Eclipse parked under a tree. She pulled next to it and opened her window. The other cars window opened revealing the beautiful face of Carmen Sanchez, her dark hair and black eyes contrasting perfectly with her light brown skin. "Thanks for coming, Susan," Carmen said excitedly. "I hope I didn't interrupt anything." Only getting to know my co-host… "No, not really Carmen, what's up?" "You know that tip you gave me last week about those calls you'd been getting at the station about the new owners of the chemical plant? Well, I did some digging and I think I'm on to something, something really big." Carmen was WKLC Channel 12's investigative reporter and when she was on a case, she was tenacious. Her investigative exposé's always netted the station high ratings, so they gave her free rein to explore any story she found interesting. She and Susan had been lovers at one time, but the pressures of their jobs drove them apart. Now they were good friends, but deep down a spark still glowed. Becky could tell Carmen was on to something, she could see it in her demeanor, a hunting dog straining at the leash. "You're rattling someone's cage, that's for sure," Becky laughed. "My tires were slashed again last Monday and they left another note saying back off. What's going on, Carmen?" "I don't think they're on the level at that plant, Susan," Carmen replied. "I don't think they're making fertilizer either. Oh, if it's any consolation, my apartment was searched while I was at work. It just makes me want to find out more. I'm going undercover to see what I can learn. They just started hiring again, you know." "Watch out Carmen," Susan cautioned. "Don't get in over your head." "You know me, I'll be careful," Carmen replied, starting her engine. "I'm late for dinner at grandmas, I'll call you later. I just wanted to see you for a bit, bye." Susan watched Carmen drive away. "Stay safe, sweetie," she muttered. *** Promptly at ten-o-clock, Susan's doorbell chimed. Becky stood on the doorstep, a big smile on her face. "Hi Susan," she said brightly, "Ready to do some show prep?" She was dressed in cut off jean shorts and a crop top t-shirt, her shapely legs and firm breasts on full display. Susan felt her mouth go dry. "Right on time," she murmured, stepping aside to let her in. Becky sat at Susan's kitchen table and watched as she moved about setting out coffee and rolls. She looked so cute in her hip hugger cargo shorts and tube top, full breasts jiggling as she worked, Becky couldn't take her eyes off her. She had dressed to get Susan's attention and it seemed Susan had dressed in the same way. Becky preferred to keep romance and work separate, but Susan was becoming impossible to ignore. Susan loaded the CD recordings of their shows in her sound system and they began to listen to each other on the air, giggling at their vehemence. "That woman sounded like she was going to cry. I can be such a bitch sometimes." Tears of laughter ran down Becky's cheeks. "That last guy I was talking to was so mad, I thought he was going to smash his radio. Those holier-than-thou types always bring out the devil in me." Susan began riffling through the show prep briefing sheets that the Associate Producer had prepared for them. "Well, goodbye to 'Right Wing Roundup' and hello to 'Counterpoint', that's our new show, Becky," Susan said, sliding her chair closer to her co-host. "And goodbye to 'Left Wing Wisdom' too," Becky replied as their bare legs touched under the table. "But a new show rises from the ashes like the Phoenix." Susan rubbed her leg slowly against Becky's feeling her push back against her. Gazing into each other's eyes, Becky reached up and brushed Susan's hair from her forehead. Susan took Becky's hand in hers and stroked her cheek. Becky leaned forward, lips parted, when the doorbell chimed. "I… I better get that," Susan stammered, releasing Becky's hand and heading for the door. Carmen stood in the doorway, eyes shining. "Hi Susan," she said happily, "I was just in the neighborhood and I thought…" "C'mon in Carmen," Susan said brusquely, "I want you to meet someone." Becky had walked out from the kitchen, a frown crossing her face when she saw Carmen. "Carmen," Susan said, "I'd like you to meet Becky Manning, my new co-host." The women looked at each other with a mix of curiosity and suspicion as Susan stood between them. "Pleased to meet you Carmen," Becky said smiling, not pleased at all. "I've gotta run, Susan, things to do, you know. Same time tomorrow for show prep, okay?" "Uh, yeah, same time tomorrow," Susan said, feeling sad that Becky was leaving so soon. She watched as Becky hurried out the door, round ass wiggling in her tight shorts. "She's pretty," Carmen said wistfully, knowing she had interrupted something. "Yeah, pretty," Becky said in an irritated tone. "What's up, Carmen?" "I found out something else about that chemical company…" Carmen began. *** "Who was that Carmen bitch?" Becky muttered to herself as she weaved through the traffic. Susan was so close, her lips so soft…Get a grip, woman. You're in the major leagues now. Don't start getting mushy. This is your big break. Don't screw it up by making a move on your co-host. But she slid over to me first…no, no, don't do it. There's too much at stake. Just be cool, be cool. *** Monday morning dawned and Susan met Becky in the lobby of WCLK's broadcast center. "Hi partner," she said excitedly as she hugged Becky, "Ready to make radio history?" "Sure am, partner," Becky responded enthusiastically, returning Susan's hug. "Let's go tear 'em up." When they exited the studios elevator, a small crowd of station employees were there to greet them, clapping and smiling. "Hi guys," Susan said, "my partner here and I are ready to do our first show." Becky grinned and gave Susan a peck on the cheek, making her blush. Settling in at their consoles, headphones on and mic's set, they waited for the producers signal… *** Three hours later, Susan and Becky removed their headphones and high fived each other. It had been a terrific first program and they knew it. All their hard work the past week had paid off, blending their styles, bouncing subjects off each other, sharpening their verbal ripostes. It seemed that most of the people in Clear Lake City wanted to talk to, and argue or agree with them. The call screeners had their hands full as the phone banks stayed lit for the entire show. Susan could see Colonel Bob and Ben grinning at them through the control room window. She cocked a thumb at them for Becky's benefit, so she turned in her chair and waved. Then they stood up and walked arm in arm into the conference room for a first show party. Two hours later, the party had wound down and most of the celebrants had left. A small group still gathered around 'Colonel" Bob as he began another boring tale of ranch life. He was the station owner, so they listened with feigned interest. When he stopped to take drink, Susan said, "It's been a lovely party everyone, but Becky and I have to leave. We'll see you all tomorrow." "Yes, it was a great party," Becky said, "I know I'm going to enjoy working with all of you. See you tomorrow." They walked in the elevator, the doors closing behind them. *** As the elevator descended, Susan suddenly hit the stop button, holding it between floors. "Susan," Becky began, "What are you…" She shivered as Susan took her hands in hers and looked into her eyes. "I, I can't hold back any longer," Susan said softly, her voice thick with emotion. "I tried, I really did. I want you so bad, Becky. I wanted you from the first time we met, when we talked in the pub. I know it's unprofessional to become involved with your co- workers, but I…" Becky took Susan in her arms, their bodies fitting together as two halves of a whole. "Susan I want you too, so very much. I felt it the first time we met. I knew there was something between us, I knew it." Their lips met in a passionate kiss. Tears flowed from their eyes as their tongues danced in each other's mouths, their emotions overwhelming them. Kissing and caressing, they began fumbling with each other's clothes. "Wait," Susan murmured, "Not here. I know a place." Releasing the stop switch, she pressed the second floor button. They stumbled out of the elevator into an empty hallway, the faint hum of electrical equipment echoing in their ears. Moving down the corridor, Susan stopped in front of a red-framed door marked 'No Admittance', pulled a ring of keys from her pocket and unlocked it. She led Becky inside, switched on the lights and locked the door again. When she turned back to follow Becky she was directly in front of her, smiling shyly. "Hey, you," she said softly, holding out her arms. Susan sighed and moved into her embrace, hugging Becky tightly and nuzzling her soft blonde hair. Susan began a slow grind against Becky, loving the feel of her firm belly and thighs against her own. Becky sucked lightly on Susan's tongue, reaching down to cup her full ass cheeks in her hands, drawing them together more tightly. Soon they were sighing and moaning, lost in the pleasures of their mutual desire. Passion and Politics "I want us in bed, now," Susan panted after several minutes of erotic foreplay. They separated reluctantly and walked into the middle of the room. Becky suddenly realized they were in an efficiency-sized apartment, sparsely furnished and decorated. Then she saw the three metal framed beds aligned against one wall. "What is this place, Susan," she asked, walking towards the beds and pulling her t-shirt over her head. Susan kicked her shoes off and pulled her jeans down. "The on-air crews stay here when the weather turns bad. I was stuck here for three days last winter. There's food and water, the bathrooms are over there and power comes from on site diesel generators when the lines go down." Becky finished undressing and lay back on the bed, her body aching for Susan's touch. Susan stepped out of her wet panties and stood by the bed, gazing lustfully at her new lover. Then she straddled Becky in the bed, sighing at the contact of their skin. Becky sat up and rubbed against Susan, gently kissing and caressing her. "Oh how I've wanted this," Susan sighed as Becky sucked on her stiff nipples, her hand moving teasingly down Susan's belly until it rested on her wet slit. Susan raised her hips seeking Becky's probing fingers and gasped when two of them slid into her. Becky continued to lick and suck on Susan's breasts, circling the pebbled areolas with her long tongue, nibbling on the firm nipples. Susan was beside herself with lust as Becky's' fingers pumped into her and her thumb rubbed her hard little clit, sending shocks and thrills through her body. "Please," she moaned, "I want your mouth on me, please, please." "Your wish is my command, precious," Becky murmured. Sliding down the bed between Susan's legs, she gripped her thighs, pushing them apart and buried her face in her lovers' juicy cunt. Slurping and sucking, she began to devour her feast of wet pussy. Susan moaned and writhed as Becky's long tongue explored every fold and crevice of her creamy slit, driving deep inside to taste the salty, flowing juices. "Ooohhh, yessss…" Susan cried as her lover began thrusting two fingers in her creamy pussy, her eager mouth sucking and nibbling on Susan's engorged clit. Susan raised off the bed, bucking against Becky's mouth and fingers as she felt her orgasm rising through her body. Sensing Susan was close to cumming, Becky engulfed Susan's cunt lips in her mouth, sucking and nibbling on them as she twisted Susan's clit between her thumb and forefinger. "Ahhhh, fuck meeee…" Susan wailed exploding into her lovers' open mouth, her back arching as spine shattering orgasms stiffened her body and she began to cum repeatedly. Becky gulped and swallowed Susan's plentiful love juices, her thrusting fingers driving her lover to new heights of ecstasy. With one final cry, Susan collapsed on the sweat-dampened sheets, quivering as Becky slid up on the bed and held her until she calmed. "Mmmm, you're so beautiful when you cum," Becky purred. "I could spend all day between your thighs, driving you crazy." "That sounds marvelous," Susan replied, her fingertips stroking down her lovers back to the curve of her ass. "But now I want to play with you for a while." Sitting up on the bed, she gently rolled Becky onto her stomach, then crawled between her legs, lifted her hips and began to lick her ass cheeks. Becky lay her head on her arms, whimpering with joy as Susan pulled her cheeks apart and burrowed her wet tongue deep in the puckered hole. She rocked backward onto Susan's' hot mouth, her sphincter muscle relaxing, allowing her lovers' tongue free access to her intimate place. "Ohhhh …baby …" she moaned as Susan buried two fingers in her gushing cunt, twisting and turning them in the velvety softness, massaging the g-spot with every delicious twist. Growling and slurping, Susan ate Beckys' asshole with animalistic pleasure. Soon she was pumping four fingers into Becky's pussy, loving the sound of her lovers' little shrieks as her pleasure rose beyond endurance and her body began to spasm. Susan lashed Beckys' ass with her tongue and thrust deep into her cunt with her stiff fingers. "Uhhhh… oh fuckkkk…" Becky squealed, her hips jerking spasmodically as she rode Susans' tongue and fingers to several intense orgasms, bathing her lovers' hand in sticky cum. Exhausted, she fell forward, gasping for breath. Susan slid next to her and caressed her lovingly until she began to relax. "I'm so glad I took this job," Becky sighed, kissing Susan hard on the lips. "The fringe benefits are just great." "You are such a cutie-pie," Susan said excitedly. "I never want to leave this bed and I definitely don't want to leave you." "But what about your girlfriend," Becky replied teasingly. "What about Carmen, won't she get jealous that you cheated on her." Susan frowned, "Yeah, Carmen and I were together once, but it didn't work out. We remained focused on our careers and our love life came in a short second. Now were just good friends. Listen, Beck, I need to talk to you about something that Carmen and I have been working on. If you're gonna be with me, you better know all the details. It may get dangerous along the line." "Let's talk over dinner, Suze," Becky replied, slipping into the easy familiarity of lovers. "I could go for some Chinese, maybe Italian. All this good lovin's given me an appetite." "Both sound good to me, sweetie," Susan replied. "The Leaning Tower of Pizza is right down the street, we can go there." Dressing quickly, they were soon riding the elevator into the lobby. Becky saw her new ID badge on the rack behind the receptionists' desk and stopped to get it. The buildings security guard was nowhere in sight. Susan continued walking outside toward the parking lot when Becky heard her holler, "Hey, get away from that car. What are you doing you son-of-a-bitch!" Becky was out the door in an instant. She saw Susan confronting two burly men standing behind her beloved Mustang convertible. Then she saw the glint of naked steel in the glare of the parking lot lights. "Knife, Suze, knife," she screamed, running faster. Susan had seen the flashing blade as well. She dropped into a crouch as her attackers thrust passed over her head. Slicing upward with her hand, she struck the man's wrist, numbing it instantly, the knife spinning away onto the pavement. She grabbed him by the collar and smashed his face into the trunk lid, breaking his nose. Spurting blood, he crumpled to the ground. She spun to confront her other opponent. However, before she could respond, Becky was at her side, blonde hair flying. Pivoting on one foot, she screamed an attack call and delivered a resounding kick to the second attacker's sternum, hearing a satisfying whoosh of air from his lungs. He tottered and fell heavily to the pavement, gasping and wheezing. Susan pressed her phone's speed dial for 911 as Becky eyed their attackers warily. They lay almost motionless; their eyes dull with shock and pain. The women heard the whoop of sirens and the bleat of air horns as police and emergency vehicles charged into the parking lot. In a moment, police and EMS techs surrounded them, asking questions and checking for wounds. Their attackers arrested and sent to the hospital, Susan and Becky sat on the Mustang's hood, Becky's head on her shoulder. "Where'd you learn those moves?" Susan asked. "You really opened a can of whup-ass tonight." "Karate classes," Becky replied. "Not everyone likes a talk radio host, and how about you? That guy's gonna need a new nose after you busted him up like that." "Self defense courses," Susan said. "It's all got to do with what Carmen and I have been working on…uh oh, here comes the law." Both women smiled prettily at the police Captain as he strode up to them, gold braid and buttons gleaming in the spotlights. "You ladies sure did some damage to those perps," he said admiringly. "It's a pleasure to meet you both. I heard some of your program today and I enjoyed it. Do either of you have any ideas why they attacked you?" "I caught them messin' with my car," Susan said cagily. "I guess they were trying to steal it, or something." Reaching behind her, she pulled a sheet of paper from under the windshield wiper and stuffed it down the back of her jeans. The captain was so busy watching Becky telling him how she downed her attacker he never noticed. After several more questions and obtaining their autographs, the captain drove off, leaving the women alone once more in the parking lot. "Let's go eat," Susan said. "All this exercise has given me an appetite." *** Returning from the restaurant, Susan invited Becky in so they could talk. "That was an excellent Veal Marsala," Susan said happily. "You should have tried some instead of giving me that look all through the meal." "I refuse to eat the flesh of any creature who's been tortured like those poor calves," Becky replied. "My vegetable Lasagna was tasty and well prepared. You should have tried some of that." They looked at each other and laughed, snuggling on the couch. "Okay Suze, what's all the mystery about?" "It all began four months ago when a screener took a call from someone using a phone voice distorter. This person said there was something dangerous going on at the old ConChem plant out on River Road. That the new owners were conducting tests with lethal chemicals and that the city might be in danger. She thought it might be a crank call, so she didn't pass it on to me until I went on break for the top of the hour news. This person told me the plant was making lethal chemicals prohibited under international law. Their cover story is that they're making agricultural chemicals; pesticides, liquid fertilizers and fungicides. When I asked for details, our mystery caller said 'I'll call you later' and hung up." "Hmmm," Becky said, grinning. "A mystery, I love mysteries. What happened next?" "I had our Associate Producer do a little checking. An obscure corporation named Crescent Industries now owns the plant. Their headquarters are in Malaysia, probably a shell corporation of some kind, with something bigger behind it. Carrie hit a dead end in her research, so that's all we really know." "What about the mystery caller?" Becky asked. "Did they ever call back?" "Three weeks later," Susan replied. "The caller just said they had tested the stuff on some monkeys and they died instantly. Then they hung up again." "Monkeys? Primates? That is so cruel, they should stop all testing on animals," Becky said angrily. "That's a great show topic," Becky mused. "But I'm getting off track. I asked Ben if I could look into it further and he said no, it wasn't our job to do investigative work. That's where Carmen comes in." "Ah yes, our little Carmen," Becky said sarcastically. "How does she fit into this?" "I told you we were over, Beck," Susan muttered. "Anyway, I filled Carmen in on what had happened and she was off and running. The last time I saw her she said something about possibly going in there undercover. I haven't heard from her since. Oh yeah, the mystery caller checked back in long enough to warn me to stay away and not get involved or I might get hurt. That's the wrong thing to say to me. Then the tire slashing and the notes started." Susan pulled the crumpled paper from her jeans, "Here you go, read this." "Keep quiet or you'll get hurt," Becky read aloud, "This is a warning. How original. What say we go out there and kick some ass? No one threatens my girlfriend like that." "Hold on there, partner," Susan said, laughing. "We need to cool it until we find out a little more. I'm sure we'll hear from Carmen soon and we can decide what to do then." Susans' phone warbled. "It's the cops, Beck. Yeah, this is Susan. Oh hi Captain. Yeah, oh really, no kidding, uh-huh, okay, sure, talk to you later, thanks." Becky grinned; usually Susan did most of the talking. This was going to be interesting. "That was our buddy Captain Cartwright at the cop shop," Susan said, snapping the phone shut. "Seems our attackers got patched up, found a lawyer and bonded out before the cops could really question them. Turns out they had phony ID's and passports. I doubt if we'll see them again. In addition, they both said they worked as security guards at the Crescent Industries plant. Well, that's pretty much it, partner. Are you still with me?" "What do you think, babe?" Becky said, hugging Susan and giving her a kiss. She glanced at the grandfather clock by the door. "Oh wow, it's almost midnight. I gotta run. I'll see you at the studio tomorrow." Susan took her by the hand and said softly, "Stay with me tonight. I want to fall asleep with your arms around me." "I thought you'd never ask," Becky replied, her eyes shining, "I'm all yours, sweetheart." *** "Oh it's so good," Susan moaned as Becky burrowed her wiggling tongue in her wet pussy. Susan had suggested they take a bath before going to bed, but their arousal had overtaken them before they could climb in the huge claw foot tub. They had undressed slowly, reveling in the mutual seduction, caressing and kissing each other tenderly. Becky dropped to her knees, pushing Susan against the sink and spreading her legs. The aroma of Susan's arousal filled Becky's nostrils as she licked and nibbled on Susan's' lightly furred pussy lips, exulting in her lovers' sighs of pleasure. Becky's' eager mouth engulfed Susan's' pussy, twisting her stiff tongue deep inside to caress the soft pink walls, her mouth filled with warm fluids. Becky gripped Susan's' ass cheeks as she devoured her lovers gushing cunt. Susan held onto the sink with whitened knuckles, humping wildly on Becky's' sweet face, the upwelling of her intense orgasm making her body tremble. Becky knew that Susan was close to cumming. She intensified her licking and nibbling, sucking on Susan's' distended clit. Susan screamed, grinding her wet slit on her lover's lips. Then she was there, bucking and thrashing, filling Becky's eager mouth with a flood of warm cum. She howled in ecstasy, riding her lover's probing tongue through two glorious orgasms until her knees gave way and she collapsed into Becky's' arms. Becky hugged Susan's trembling body tightly until she began to recover. "My sweet baby," she murmured, "I love to watch you cum. You're so beautiful." "Now it's time for a bath," Susan replied. "Let's get in the tub, the waters getting cold." Susan stepped in first, and then Becky settled in the warm water on top of her, sliding between Susan's thighs, feeling her lover's stiff nipples rubbing on her back. Susan began to soap Becky's body, gliding the lavender scented soap sponge over her breasts, down her flat tummy and lingering on her shaved pussy. Becky moaned and leaned back, Susan's sensuous caresses setting her body on fire. Her hips rose to meet Susan's hand as she let go of the sponge and thrust two fingers into Becky's pussy. "Mmmmm, so good…" she gasped as Susan twisted her fingers inside, finding and stimulating the spongy g-spot. Becky whimpered as Susan slid a third finger in her pussy and slid two soapy fingers up to the palm in her puckered asshole. Susan began to pump her fingers rapidly in Becky's holes, sucking and biting on her neck and shoulder. Becky's hands clutched the edge of the tub, her body rising and falling against her lovers' thrusting fingers, shivering as her orgasm built within her. Becky screamed as Susan's thumb found her throbbing clit and rubbed it in tune with her pistoning fingers. She arched her back and then she was cumming, cumming hard, riding her lover's fingers through three massive orgasms, finally falling back into Susan's welcoming embrace as water splashed on the floor. Susan rubbed her face in Becky's wet hair, encircling her shivering body with her arms and legs. "I love you so much," she breathed in her ear. "It scares me a little." Becky turned sideways between Susan's legs and they exchanged a deep, lingering kiss. "I love you too," she replied. "This is crazy, I know. We work together. We're on opposite sides on most political and social issues, but I don't care. I just want you." "And you have me," Susan grinned. "Let's dry off, Beck. I want to continue this in bed." "Wow, Suze," Becky exclaimed as they stepped from the tub to find the bathroom floor covered with water. "It looks like the 'Titanic' cracked up in here. You have a mop?" "Throw some of those extra towels on the floor," Susan replied as they rubbed each other dry. "We'll see to this later. Now it's time for some fun." Becky and Susan walked into her bedroom, Becky admiring the lush period décor. The bulky dark brown furniture standing in muted contrast against the tan wallpaper covered with red and yellow flowers. A massive bed was the centerpiece of the room, its intricately carved head and footboard a riot of carved acorns, flora and leaves. As Becky looked about, Susan leaned against her back, her arms slipping around her lovers' slim waist. "Oh Suze," Becky breathed. "Did you decorate this yourself?" Susan nuzzled Becky's neck, "I had the ideas, but other people had the talent. I'm really please with the way it turned out." Becky sighed, leaning back against Susan as she nibbled her shoulder. "That feels good, babe. Let's try this bed of yours on for size." Susan reluctantly released her and began to pull down the dark red comforter and white silk sheets. Becky watched Susan's' round ass moving back and forth and her mouth began to water. Becky pushed Susan forward onto the mattress, dropping to her knees and pushing her lover's legs apart. Susan squealed in delight as Becky caressed her ass cheeks and licked the pink puckered hole repaying the ass eating that Susan had given her at the radio station. Becky sucked and licked Susan's' ass cheeks, coating them with saliva until they glistened in the light from the ornate chandelier. Susan grunted and moaned as Becky's tongue burrowed deep in her asshole, thrusting easily past the dilated sphincter, slurping and licking. Then Becky thrust two fingers into Susan's' foaming cunt, twisting them deep inside the sensitive tissues. Susan screamed lustily, spreading her legs and riding Becky's hand. Becky ate her lovers' asshole with the same ferocity that Susan had eaten hers. She thought briefly of fisting her, but decided to save that for another time. Susan thrashed about, her pleasure overwhelming her as Becky added another finger in her pussy and replaced her tongue with two fingers swirling in her asshole. Becky pumped her lovers holes hard and deep, wanting to see her cum and cum. Susan's' orgasm hit her like a falling rock, her pleasure centers overloading. "Ahhhh, fuck meeee…" Susan wailed, bucking against her lovers' fingers as she came repeatedly, riding the waves of ecstasy. Becky felt herself cum as well as she continued to give Susan pleasure, her pussy dripping thick juices on the rose colored rug. "Please, no more," Susan gasped. Becky removed her fingers and hugged Susan's' thighs until she stopped convulsing and was still. Becky helped Susan crawl up on the mattress. She was gasping for breath as Becky rolled her on her back, brushing the sweat soaked hair from her face and lying beside her. After a few minutes, Susan rolled over to face Becky and said, "That was so damn good, Beck. You sure know how to show a girl a good time." Becky kissed her nose. "It's so wonderful doing it with you. I really wanted to return the favor from earlier today. I could tell you liked it." "I liked it, all right," Susan sighed. "Look at me, I'm still shaking." She cupped Becky's' firm breast in her hand, her thumb rubbing the pink nipple. "Now it's my turn to please you." Passion and Politics Becky lay back on the white silk sheets, trembling as she awaited the attentions of her lover. Susan arose on her hands and knees, straddling Becky, her tongue licking on her stiff pink nipples, circling the pebbled aureoles. Susan continued to caress Becky's breasts with her lips and tongue until she was mad with lust. "Suck my pussy, I want your tongue, pleeease," Becky moaned, pushing Susan's head down her body. Susan continued to tease her lover as she writhed beneath her, her lips and tongue traveling slowly along her ribs and belly until they slid along Becky's bare pussy. She nuzzled the fleshy lips, sniffing deeply as she inhaled the heady scent of her lovers' arousal. Becky's hands tangled in Susan's short black hair, urging her mouth on her dripping slit. Susan opened her mouth wide and engulfed Becky's wet cunt with her warm lips. Becky uttered a wavering scream as Susan drove her tongue deep in her pussy, swishing against the pink inner softness. Already aroused from eating her lovers' asshole, Becky willed herself not to cum as she wanted the wonderful sensations to continue, whimpering and moaning as Susan devoured her. Susan growled deep in her throat, slurping and licking, as she could not get enough of Becky's tasty cunt. The salty fluids like ambrosia on her taste buds, she swallowed wave after wave of warm juices, sucking greedily on her meal of pussy. Becky's hips bucked as her orgasm neared. Susan wrapped her arms around Becky's thighs, holding her in place as she licked feverishly into the slick folds. Becky's moans were as loud as shouts as her lover began sucking on her engorged clit, worrying it with her teeth, lashing it with her tongue. Becky screamed from deep in her throat as her orgasms smashed through her, her back arching as she rode one pulse of pleasure after another. Susan clung to Becky's hips, sucking and nibbling on her clit until Becky begged her to stop. Susan crawled up the bed and cradled her lovers quivering body in her arms, cooing softly as Becky recovered from her intense pleasure. Then they lay together in the big bed, savoring the afterglow of mutual sexual satisfaction, their warm bodies cooling in the night's soft breeze. "Time for sleep, babe," Susan said, yawning behind her hand. "C'mere, lover," Becky replied, holding out her arms. Susan sighed happily, pulling the sheet and comforter over them as she sank into Becky's warm embrace. In a moment, they were asleep, together and supremely content. *** The morning sun shone through the tall bay windows of Susan's apartment as she awoke, still wrapped in her lovers' arms. She kissed Becky on the forehead until her blue eyes opened, gazing at her sleepily. "Wakey, wakey, sweetie," she said happily, "How about some breakfast?" Becky stirred in her lovers arms and lifted her face for a good morning kiss. "For a second, I thought I was dreaming, being here with you. I'm so glad it's not a dream." She paused and said, "I love you Susan, I want to spend the rest of my life with you if you'll have me." "And I love you, so very much," Susan replied. "I was so afraid of being hurt again…but now we're together and that's all that matters. When can you move in?" "I have another two weeks on my lease at the all-suite hotel…" Becky began. Then her stomach growled and she blushed prettily. "Sounds like someone's hungry," Susan giggled. "Grab a robe from the closet, babe and I'll fix us something to eat." *** Rummaging through the refrigerator, Susan and Becky soon put together a substantial breakfast of cheese and green pepper omelets, turkey bacon and whole wheat toast, washing it down with cups of strong black coffee. They were beginning to kiss and tease each other when the doorbell rang. Susan looked through the viewer and saw a woman at the door wearing coveralls. She looked familiar, but Susan couldn't place her. She opened the door and said, "Can I help you ma'am?" The woman laughed, "Susan, she said, it's me, Carmen." "Oh my God, c'mon in here," Susan exclaimed. "I hardly recognized you. What's with the costume?" "It's no costume," Carmen said, walking into the living room. "I'm the newest member of the maintenance staff at Crescent Industries. The station agreed to let me go undercover and see what's going on in there. Maintenance workers are invisible to many people, but they can go anywhere. I cut my hair, did a dye job on it, heavy makeup, presto, a disguise. If you didn't recognize me, no one can. It's foolproof. I start in two days, then I can…" Carmen stopped talking as Becky padded barefoot into the living room, wearing one of Susan's robes and carrying a coffee cup. Her tousled hair and satisfied smile told Carmen all she needed to know. "Am I interrupting something, again…?" she began, a frown crossing her face. "Carmen, how nice to see you," Becky said brightly, walking up to Susan and putting her arm around her waist. "To what do we owe the pleasure?" "Carmen's going undercover at Crescent Industries," Susan replied. "She's tryin' to see what's going on out there." "Isn't that a little dangerous?" Becky said, wrinkling her brow. "What if they find you out?" "They'll never see through this disguise," Carmen said, airily. "Besides they'll just ask me to leave and I'll…" "This does sound dangerous, Carmen," Susan broke in, putting her arm around Becky's shoulders. "How about we give you some back-up?" "I told the station I'll call in every day with a report," Carmen replied. "If I don't call in, they call the police, I'll be okay, don't worry." She's a pretty woman under all that make-up Becky mused as Carmen was talking. I can see why Susan loved her. I wonder what she looks like out of those baggy clothes…. Becky shook her head slightly, hugged Susan and concentrated on what Carmen was saying. "I do worry and you know it," Susan replied. "Take care of yourself, okay?" "Yes Carmen," Becky said, "We'll be waiting to hear how you're doing." "Thanks guys," Carmen replied, a smile crossing her face. "I gotta run, the station wants to see if they can set me up with a mini-cam to use when I'm inside. See ya' later." Becky and Susan watched Carmen stride down the sidewalk, get in her car and drive away, waving. "She's got guts, that one," Becky muttered, I can see how you two hit it off. You still care for her, don't you Suze?" "I'd be lying if I said I didn't," Susan sighed, hugging Becky tightly. "She'll always have a little piece of my heart. But you have the rest of it." Holding hands, the lovers walked back into the bedroom, dropping their robes on the floor. *** Susan, why did I drive you away? Carmen thought as she steered through the traffic. Now she has you, and she's so beautiful. Carmen grimaced as her car hit a speed bump, breaking her train of thought. I must concentrate on the assignment; she admonished herself, turning into her parking space at the station. *** Two months had passed since 'Counterpoint's' debut on WCLK. The program was a hit, drawing high ratings for it's time slot and making Becky and Susan local celebrities. They made the rounds of the TV talk shows, gave interviews and posed for photographs. Their affection for each other was apparent and when asked, they spoke honestly of their mutual attraction and this only heightened the public's interest in them. Their love and desire for each other served to heighten the heated exchanges they had on the air and with callers. Susan's passions rose watching Becky duel with a caller; the way her eyes blazed as she conversed was so sexy. Becky, in turn, loved it when Susan was dealing with a caller, stiffening her spine and thrusting her breasts against her t-shirt. Often their arousal would build to the point where they would kiss and hug during newsbreaks, wishing they were together in bed. The show's producer was amused and tolerant of their behavior, often giving them their on-air cues at the last minute and laughing as they signed on breathless and excited. With the advertising rates the show could charge, he felt they could have some off-air fun. *** Susan's contacts at the TV station kept her updated on Carmen's progress at the Crescent Chemical plant. Carmen was bored and tired of her maintenance duties, but she was sure something illegal was going on and wanted to stay a week or so longer. Susan and Becky remained concerned for her safety, but could only wait until Carmen decided her investigation was complete. *** "Hey Suze, let's hit the gym,' Becky said as their closing theme played. "I need a good work out, my muscles feel stiff." "Sounds good to me," Becky replied. If we hurry, we can beat the crowd. It's always busy on a Friday night." "Everyone's trying to slim down for a hot date," Becky laughed. "Like the one we'll have later." 'C'mon my little nympho," Susan replied, taking Becky's hand, "the machine's await." *** Stopping to sign autographs in the gym's lobby, the women changed into their workout clothes and began their exercise routines. Susan preferred the weight machines, Becky the free weights and treadmill. They each practiced some karate moves and ran laps around the indoor track. Two hours later they were ready to shower and leave for home. As they stripped down in the locker room, Becky looked at Susan and her eyes glittered. "Suze," she said throatily, "I want to play." Susan grinned as she felt a thrill of desire. Becky was an adventuresome lover, always seeking new ways for them to share pleasure. It was exciting to entice and tease each other in public places, then have white-hot sex when they were alone. Becky never missed the opportunity to take their fun a step farther, and Susan knew that the time was now. Susan raised an eyebrow, "Oh you want to play, do you? Where?" "The shower room," Becky replied, "Go to the shower by the wall and wait for me there." Susan hurried to the shower, goose bumps rising on her skin. The room was empty and she wished there were other women there. It made their games more exciting when people were around. She gasped as the cold spray struck her, dancing about until the water warmed. "Well, well, who have we here, I haven't seen you here before." Susan turned at the sound of Becky's voice. It was deeper in pitch and thrilling. Her lover stood at the entrance to the stall, hands on her hips, green eyes alight with lust. "I…I just joined the other day," Susan replied in a young girl's voice. "My name is Susan, what's yours?" "Becky," she replied, "You're a pretty girl, Susan. Can I share your shower?" She stepped in, not waiting for an answer. Susan backed away, feigning surprise, her back against the tile wall. "Uh…I usually shower alone, but you can shower with me. You seem nice and I don't know anyone here," Susan said, water dripping from her hair. Becky smiled, "Let me wash your back, Susan. I bet you'd like that." She took a bottle of bath gel from the soap dish and lathered her hands. "Oh yes, that would be so kind of you," Susan said, her breath ragged. Her desire was building and it was hard to stay in character. Becky rubbed her soapy hands on Susan's shoulders, then down her back. "You have a lovely body," she purred as her hands caressed Susan's ass. Susan moaned at Becky's touch. "That feels so good; your touch is so soft. Wash me more please." Becky shivered as she caressed her lover. Susan was her equal in these games of seductive play. She felt as if she was seducing a stranger rather than her soul mate. "Turn around, Susan," she murmured, "I want to wash your breasts." Susan turned, her half-closed eyes alive with lust, arching her back as she offered her body to her seducer. Becky trembled as she slid her soapy hands over Susan's breasts, the rock hard nipples felt wonderful against her palms. She lowered her head and took a soapy nipple in her mouth, sucking and nibbling. Susan sighed as her lover's fingers captured her other breast, fingers rubbing and pulling on her nipple. Susan leaned against the tile wall as Becky's mouth and fingers inflamed her desire. She whimpered as Becky's hand slid between her legs, wriggling two fingers in her pussy, thumb rubbing her clit. Susan pulled Becky to her, cradling her ass cheeks, soapy fingers probing her puckered asshole. Becky moaned around her mouthful of breast flesh. They both loved anal play and indulged in it at every opportunity. Susan ground her cunt against Becky's hand, her soapy fingers sliding easily into her lover's gripping ass. Becky sucked and bit on Susan's nipples, pushing a third finger in Susan's pussy, swirling them around in the pink folds. She fingered Susan's ass with her free hand and gasped when Susan slid two fingers in her pussy and rubbed her clit. Their bodies stiffened as they fingered each other's holes, Becky's mouth leaving Susan's breasts to grind against her lover's, tongues swirling together. Then they were cumming, their orgasms lashing their bodies as they pleasured each other, loving the sensations. Their cries of ecstasy echoed in the cavernous room as they slumped to the floor, quivering as the warm water washed the hot cum from their bodies. Susan sat up and brushed wet strands of hair from Becky's face, hugging her as they sat on the tiles. "That was wonderful. I love you so much." "My beautiful lover," Becky replied, kissing Susan's nose. "I am so happy." Susan rose, helped Becky to her feet and turned off the water. "Let's towel off and get some food. How's Chinese sound?" "I'd rather be eating you, my little won-ton," Becky said laughing. "Okay, Chinese it is." *** When they arrived home, the answering machine was blinking. "Looks like we have some calls," Susan said. "Probably words of praise from our many fans." "Nothing wrong with your ego," Becky chuckled, pushing the play button. "Let's see how many are for me and for you." They snuggled up on the couch to listen. The first two were indeed fans, but the third was an unfamiliar male voice that made them both sit up in surprise. "Ms. Tyler, Ms. Manning, this is Kenneth McCarthy, CIB. I need to meet with you concerning the assault two months ago. Please call me at…" He proceeded to give a number and hung up. "I knew those guys were part of something big," Susan said triumphantly. "The CIB doesn't call just to chit-chat." "The CIB creeps me out," Becky said with a frown. "They're part of the Vast Right Wing Conspiracy to deprive us of our rights as citizens." "They're not all bad, my lovely leftist," Becky said affectionately. "But they do get a bit dirty from time to time. We'll meet with this joker and see what he has to say. I'll bet Crescent Industries has something to do with this. My bump of curiosity is itching." "Probably from soaking in that shower," Becky replied, tickling Susan's ribs. "I say we get some sleep and deal with this in the morning." *** "Humph, that's two hours of our lives we'll never get back," Susan muttered as they left the meeting with the CIB agent. "Fuckin' facist," Becky growled. "He treated us like we were idiots and we didn't learn anything." "He knew all about Carmen going undercover, too," Susan said. "Beck, we're gonna do a little investigating on our own and to hell with him. I'll sweet talk Charlie into givin' us the news van and we'll go to the factory and nose around a bit. Tell 'em we're doing a show on whether they're hurting the environment or not. Maybe we'll see Carmen there." "You are nothing if not clever, sweetie," Becky replied. "Hey, let's grab some coffee and take a walk through the park. I'm in the mood to commune with nature." *** Soon they were walking through the park, sipping their coffees and holding hands. Finding a shady spot, they sat on a bench and Becky laid her head on Susan's shoulder. The warmth of their bodies soon sparked their arousal and Susan said, "Beck, I want to play." "Where," Becky replied, nuzzling Susan's neck. "Over there behind those trees," Susan giggled. "I'm so hot for you right now". Becky leapt to her feet. "Alfresco fucking, my favorite," she laughed as they ran behind the trees. They undressed quickly and lay together in the soft grass, lips gently touching as they caressed each other. Becky rolled on top of Susan and they slowly rubbed their wet pussies on each other's thighs. Becky's mouth engulfed Susan's stiff nipple as Susan's fingernails traced along Becky's back and shoulders. Becky licked and sucked Susan's nipples as she arched her back, moaning in pleasure. Susan's hands cupped Becky's breasts, rolling her nipples between fingers and thumbs. They rubbed their creamy pussies on each other's thighs, grinding their erect clits on their warm skin as they sucked and caressed their partner's breasts. Susan felt that she was floating in a calm sea, rocking her pussy on her lover as her desire boiled over. Becky felt the warm sun on her back as she rode Susan's thigh, her lover's hands squeezing and caressing her breasts. They spiraled upward into a simultaneous orgasm, a true gift to the most committed and passionate of lovers. Humping frantically, they pressed their lips together to muffle their shrieks of pleasure as one orgasm, then another and another coursed through them. Their bodies arched as they rode the waves of ecstasy. Finally, they rolled apart and lay side by side, gasping and moaning. Susan rolled on her side and cuddled Becky. "I love you so much. I suppose we should be going, but I'm happy right here with you." "Mmmm, yeah," Becky sighed, snuggling back. "I could lie here with you forever." Reluctantly, the lovers rose and dressed. Stopping at their favorite restaurant for a meal, they returned home. Happy, content and ready for what the next day might bring. For they knew they would face it together. *** The WCLK NewsChasers van rolled to a stop at the gate of the Crescent Industries plant, Susan at the wheel. "Susan Tyler and Becky Manning to see Mr. Farnsworth," she said to the hulking guard in the booth. "We have a ten-o-clock appointment." The huge man in the guard booth frightened Becky, and the sub-machine gun hanging by a strap from his shoulder terrified her even more. The man looked at their station ID's and grunted, a frown never leaving his scarred face. The gate swung open and he waved them through with a single word, "Go." "A man of few words," Susan laughed, "And handsome too." "He probably only knows a few," Becky muttered. "Did you see that gun he was carrying? Let's forget this, babe. This place creeps me out." "Don't worry, we'll be fine," Susan replied. "Besides, I want to see what this Farnsworth says about them making illegal chemicals in this place. Where's your sense of adventure?" "I left it in my other purse," Becky said wryly. "I know you're right, we need to investigate. I hope Carmen's alright, she didn't report in yesterday and the station's a little worried." "Maybe we'll find out about her too," Susan said as she parked the van in front of the factory headquarters. *** Clement Farnsworth was tall, grey haired, debonair and glib. He smoothly answered their questions from behind his polished mahogany desk, assuring them that nothing out of the ordinary was going on in the factory. He dismissed the rumors about illegal chemicals being produced there as the grumblings of dissatisfied ex-employees. When Becky asked if the chemicals they were making would harm the environment, he assured her they were all biodegradable and she had nothing to fear. A tour of the plant was not possible now either, as the machinery was being cleaned. Soon the women found themselves in the hall, hands full of company brochures and other promotional materials. They were both baffled and frustrated.