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Seema's Journey Ch. 01

By: iTaboo



Seema closed the door behind her and leant back against the cool, well-aged wood. She let out a long sigh and closed her eyes as she rested her head against the door, the city sounds now a distant and soft thrum.

"That was a long hard day." she said to the cream coloured walls of her ground floor flat. 

She dropped her bag on the floor, placed her laptop case on the table next to the telephone and shuffled over to her plush leather sofa. She flopped down, kicked her shoes off and shrugged out of her suit jacket, letting out a long and contented sigh. The new rug she had bought on a whim last weekend felt sublime under her bare feet as she curled her toes up in the deep pile. She closed her eyes, knowing that it was a mistake. Her breathing slowed and her body began to relax into the soft cushions of her sofa.

"Ooo, no. Come on, wake up girl." She sat up quickly and reached for the TV remote from the smoked glass coffee table; another knee-jerk purchase. She idly flicked the TV on and selected her favourite channel. "I can watch what I like now!" she reminded herself.

Having the flat to herself had some distinct advantages. She could watch whatever TV she fancied. She could spend as long as she liked in the shower, or even better, in the bath. She could cook the meals she liked, when she liked, clearing the dishes next morning, if she wanted. She could spend the day in her pyjamas, or wrapped up in the bathrobe Simran had bought her, if she liked. She could walk around the flat completely naked if she wanted to. Yes, distinct advantages. The main advantage was not having to pander to her ex-boyfriend. The womanising bastard, she thought.

The disadvantage was the odd period of loneliness.

Even though six months had passed since she had found out about his clandestine meetings with a blonde he knew from work, it still hurt Seema. She considered herself lucky though. In Simran, she had a very good and very caring friend. She remembered in vivid detail the tearful phone call she had made to Simran after she had found out about her boyfriend's escapades with his 'bit on the side'. 

Simran had taken Seema under her wing, and had been there for her ever since. Like a big sister, though she was in fact a few years younger than Seema's 25 years.

Seema looked across at the shoe rack near the front door. There, just to the side, were Simran's fluffy white slippers. She spent so much time there that Seema had bought her a special pair of slippers that she could leave there permanently. Seema smiled and sighed. She wasn't lonely often.

Ironically, Simran's relationship with her boyfriend had disintegrated just a month after Seema's, under circumstances much worse. And then, Seema had been there for Simran.

Seema looked at her big blue led clock on the wall next to the door to her kitchen. 

"Damn! Better get ready."

She lifted herself off the sofa, clicked the TV off and slipped out of her shirt as she padded barefoot over the polished wooden floor to her bedroom. Once in her bedroom, she slipped her skirt off and pulled her hair-ties out, shaking her dark shoulder-length hair and rough-combing it with her slender fingers.

She turned to look in the mirror and regarded herself slowly, looking at her legs, her tummy and her breasts, cupped in a black lacy bra. As she reached around to unclip her bra she twisted around, giving herself a better view of her bottom in the mirror. 

"Not bad," she nodded, giving herself a positive appraisal. "It's all looking a bit flatter. Good!"

She unhooked her bra and slipped the thin straps off her shoulders. She looked at her bare breasts in the mirror and pursed her lips. "Hmmm. They're still a bit big. Exercise isn't going to get them any smaller." She chuckled.

She had made a pact with Simran. They would join a gym and get themselves looking as good as possible, ready for the men they would find themselves. Though, she suspected that Simran was being her usual kind and supportive self, for Simran already had a fantastic figure.

"Not fair!" chuckled Seema. She looked herself over in the mirror once more, and realised that she was in fact looking pretty good herself. Seema had never been over-weight, but in the fall-out of her failed relationship her self-image had suffered, in part due to the fast food and alcoholic beverages consumed for comfort. She shook her head and smiled bitterly.

She fetched her gym gear, swimming costume and towel from the bottom drawer of her rustic pine wardrobe, quickly donning the sports bra, tight top, and tight, black calf-length leggings. As she pulled her white sports socks on and slipped her feet into her new trainers, something caught her eye. Resting against the side of the drawer, half buried beneath socks, stockings and knickers, was a picture. She knelt down, picked it up and looked at it, knowing full-well what it was. It was the photo of her ex, a photo that she wanted to scrunch up every time she looked at it, or better still, burn it. But, she could never quite bring herself to do it. 

She thought of Simran, kind and lovely Simran. As usual, she felt a surge of warmth flowing through her body, a calming tonic that always soothed her. She looked again at her ex-boyfriend in the picture, taken on their first holiday together. He was all smiles, posing for the camera. In the background of the picture, Seema could just make out the apartment they had stayed in, framed by perfectly clear blue sky.

"Bastard!" 

Seema was well past the crying stage now, but she felt her confused emotions welling up. She threw the photo back in the drawer and stood upright.

She glanced at her clock radio on the bedside table. Simran would be picking her up any moment. She bathed in the warmth pulsing over her body on thinking of her friend, and walked through to the kitchen to take a long drink of water. All day, Seema had been looking forward to spending time with Simran; a few games of squash, a swim and back to the flat for a naughty, fat-laden take-out and some girlie TV. And hopefully some gossip, thrown in for good measure. Work really had dragged for Seema. She wondered if Simran looked forward as much to their girlie evenings.

As Simran would probably stop the night on account of a few too many glasses of wine, Seema had prepared the futon in the spare room. This had become routine for a Friday, which Seema didn't mind at all. "She may as well move in!" Seema chuckled as she crouched to tie her laces. 

It had in fact crossed her mind for the two of them to share the flat. For a while, maybe. They got on well, never argued, shared many interests and had a similar taste in music and film; like a couple. Seema sighed and flicked a frustrated glance up to the ceiling, shaking her head at the ease with which that thought entered her mind. 

It would halve the rent, she continued to reason; not that she needed to worry about rent as her job paid well. Seema often wondered what stopped her from proposing a flat-share. She was getting closer to being able to answer that question. 'Why do you want her to move in?' she kept asking herself.

"Stop it!" Seema said aloud, shaking her head again and rubbing her forehead. 

There was a knock on the door. Seema ceased her reverie and exhaled quickly, clearing her thoughts. 

"That'll be Sim!" Seema jumped up, grabbed her keys and sports bag, and skipped to the door. The city air wafted in to Seema's flat as she opened the door. It was indeed Simran. Seema felt a glow inside.

"Hi!" Simran beamed. A warm and wide smile lit Simran's face, her naturally wavy hair perfectly framing her sharp, pretty features; eyes that twinkled, high cheek bones, a delicate nose over a mouth with delicate lips. Simran held her arms out for a hug. Seema felt like she would melt.

"Hi!" They hugged tight. Seema was always unsure how long a 'friendly' hug should last. Recently, she had been more conscious about it and tended to err on the cautious side. She often wondered why she just couldn't be like Simran, and not worry about it. This time, Seema closed her eyes and let the hug linger as long as possible. She could feel Simran's heartbeat against her chest and could make out a light waft of the perfume she had bought Simran a while back. They eventually broke apart, though Seema could have stayed like that for the rest of the day.

"Ready for a few sweaty games of squash, Seem?" Simran asked cheerfully as Seema locked her door, stowing her keys in a pocket of her sports bag. Simran put her arm through Seema's and pulled her close as they walked arm in arm to Simran's car. 

"Yeah, I 'spose! But, can you please let me win at least one game tonight?"

"Well, how about you don't swim so fast tonight! I can never keep up with you!"

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

The journey to the gym was, as always, full of chat, fits of giggles and juicy gossip. Seema loved the fact that there was never a dull moment with Simran. She was also very happy with the fact that whenever they were together, it was always just about the two of them. They both had a wide circle of friends, but whenever they spent time with each other, it was always just the two of them. There for each other. Seema became serious.

"So, how you feeling today?" Seema asked, glancing across at Simran, studying her profile. Seema always marvelled at Simran's natural beauty.

"Ok, I guess. Yeah, doing ok. You put your life and soul in to a relationship, and then get it chucked straight back in your face. You know as well as me it takes time to get over things like that." She glanced at Seema, pressing her lips together and raising her eyebrows.

Seema nodded her agreement, frowning at the memory of her heartbreak. She clapped her hands on her knees. "But, we're both getting over things. We're back on track!"

"Damn right, girl!" Simran laughed, slapping the steering wheel. "Couldn't have done it without you, Seem." She reached across and patted Seema's arm.

"You did the same for me." Seema gazed at Simran, wanting to return the light touch of the arm. She held back though, forcing herself to look away from Simran's perfect profile.

They drove on in silence. Simran took the usual turning off the main road for her shortcut through a large housing estate, and soon they were parked up outside the leisure centre. Simran killed the engine, and sat back in her seat. A conspiratorial look flashed across her face.

"You know what? All our workouts and stuff, we're going to look two fine ladies!"

"Yep!" Seema chuckled, turning in her seat to face Simran.

"I reckon, for a treat, and a laugh, sometime soon, we go out and get ourselves a man each!"

"Oooo, naughty girl!" Seema giggled, though within, she felt something akin to jealousy, as she tended to more recently, whenever Simran mentioned men.

"Well, why not? It's been ages since I had good sex!" She giggled, hunching her shoulders. "We deserve it after what we've been through!"

"I guess you're right." Seema paused and looked at Simran, narrowing her eyes. "Mind you, you didn't need to go to the gym! You looked great before. You could go out tonight and have any man you wanted. I wish my bum was as shapely as yours!"

"Hey! You're not so bad yourself, honey!" Her faux American accent made Seema laugh. "Anyway, I'm looking forward to having a take-out and several glasses of wine with my soul-sister tonight." Simran took hold of Seema's hand and squeezed it gently. "Come on, let's go play squash!"

Simran slid out of the car, lithe and graceful. Seema lingered for a few seconds. She couldn't quantify how grateful she was for her friend's help during her time of need. She often worried whether she had provided Simran with enough support when it was her turn to get dumped. Simran had been like an older sister and mother, rolled in to one. Seema had realised a while back that she would have been happy with a lot more.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

They were told that there would be a twenty minute wait for a squash court. Neither of the girls minded, so they decided to sit and wait outside the courts. The thick perspex back-walls of the courts gave them a good view of the games that were in progress.

"He's kind of cute!" Simran leaned into Seema and pointed out a rather nice looking man in loose shorts and top. "Nice butt! Bet he's got money too, hmm!"

"Shhh!" Seema whispered, sniggering under her breath. She was determined not to give her silly jealousy away. "You've got a point though!"

Simran always made Seema laugh, always happy and bouncy, always smiling. She was the perfect tonic for anything, as far as Seema was concerned. They sat together on the middle bench of a small tiered seating area that served as a viewing gallery for the long row of squash courts. They sat close, shoulders touching, which was quite usual. Simran never seemed bothered about personal space. Seema, though, had started to let it bother her. 'Was it a signal, or not?' she wondered.

"I'm just going to get a bottle of water. Back in a mo. Get on a court if one frees up." Simran jumped over the lower bench and went in search of a vending machine.

As Seema watched her walk away, she marvelled at Simran's figure, wishing that she could achieve something close to a physique like that. Simran, like Seema, was a short girl, around 5'5" and perfectly proportioned. She was pert in all the right places. Breasts that sat perfectly on her chest, whether cupped in a bra or not, a bottom that had a perfect pear shape, sloping out from the small of her back by just the right amount. A perfect bottom that sat on a perfect pair of legs, with toned thighs and calves that had just the right curviness. Even her feet were cute. When she stood upright she looked like a ballet dancer, with just a bit more well-toned flesh on her.

"Stop it!" Seema cursed under her breath, staring at her feet. "You sound like a..." She didn't dare say the word. She chuckled to herself, but she knew full well how she had been feeling about Simran, especially recently. They had spent so much time together. She had depended so much on Simran during her time of need, and when Simran needed comfort, Seema had obliged with true affection. With love. She realised there was no denying it. 

Her feelings for Simran had developed over the long periods of time they had spent together, providing support for one another. She couldn't lay the blame on a fragile emotional state. Not now, not after six months. It must be love. Madness? As she came to her conclusion, she felt suddenly helpless, caught in a situation with no happy ending. How could she think that Simran would ever feel the same? Her eyes started to sting and she took a deep and unsteady breath. 

She looked up to see Simran returning, bottle of water in hand. She waved and Simran smiled back, face lighting up. Seema once again felt like she would melt.

"No courts free yet?" Simran asked as she sat down and shuffled over to sit close to Seema. She peered into Seema's eyes, resting a hand on her thigh. "Everything ok?"

"Yeah, yeah. I'm just a bit tired, I guess." 

"Yeah, know what you mean. Work a bitch?"

Seema nodded. "It was today. The day seemed to go on and on."

"Yep. Same here." Simran looked Seema in the eye, and then at the court in front of them. 

"Tell you what, our cutey you spotted earlier is getting all sweaty!" Seema wondered why she punished herself.

"Ooooo!" Simran giggled, hunching her shoulders up. "Shall I offer to help him in the shower?"

Simran laughed out loud, drawing some glances from the players on court. Seema followed suit, laughing heartily, trying to make herself appear as 'normal' as possible. 

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Eventually, they got on court, and started at a steady pace, which suited Seema perfectly. Simran was a far better player though, and when the pace picked up, the points built up against Seema. She did notice that she was improving though, and although Simran was winning fairly comfortably, Seema was at least legitimately winning a few points. 

The hardest ball to return was the ball floated to the back of the court. Despite trying her hardest, Seema could not get the swing right at all, more often than not hitting the back wall rather than the ball.

"Aaaahhh! Damn it!" Seema cursed. "I can't get those shots!"

"Back wall shots?" 

"Yeah. Can't get a proper swing at the ball. How do you do those shots?"

"Ok. I'll show you, yeah?" Simran walked to the back of the court. She put her arm around Seema's shoulder. "The rest of your game is getting loads better, I can tell you!"

Seema smiled bashfully. Simran was always full of encouragement. 

Simran went through the basics of the shot, explaining in detail the precise swing of the racquet, the positioning of the feet, and the point at which one should move the shoulders and flick the wrist. 

Seema nodded, looking as earnest as she could, though she secretly conceded that she didn't get any of it. Besides which, she found herself, as usual, marvelling at how shapely Simran was. In a tight white vest top, her breasts were almost too shapely. Her skin-tight dark blue leggings showed off her bottom perfectly, clinging tight to every perfect curve, so tight that it appeared as though she had merely sprayed her lower half with blue paint. 

'Oh, to have a firm bottom like that.' Seema thought. 'Mind you, mine looked ok in the mirror...'

"So," Simran continued. "It's mostly in the wrist really, but there's a swing to the shoulders and hips. Tell you what, if you move to the side of me, I'll hit some balls from the back here, and you watch my body position."

"Cool." She marvelled at Simran's patience. 

Simran hit a long hard ball which rebounded high off the front wall and floated back. It touched the back wall and fell almost straight down. As soon as it bounced on the floor, Simran whipped her racquet in a sharp arc and hit the ball with a huge amount of force, sending it shooting like a bullet to the front wall. It hit high, floated back, touched the back wall, fell to the floor, and again after it bounced, Simran played a perfect back wall shot. To Seema, it all looked effortless, and so graceful. It crossed Seema's mind that Simran, too, looked incredibly graceful. 

The ball came back again, floating serenely through the air towards the back wall. Just before it hit the floor, Simran swept her racquet under the ball and caught it in one fluid motion.

"See? All relaxed. Let the racquet do the work! You try it honey."

Seema made a face. "Mm, ok. I'll give it a go!" 

Simran sent her a high ball bouncing off the back wall and down to the floor. Seema tried her best to copy Simran and whipped her racquet. She hit the ball hard with a satisfying ping from the centre of the racquet, firing it off to the front wall.

"Yay! I did it, I did it!" Seema shouted, nearly pumping the air with her fist.

"Yes, yes yes! That was fantastic!" Simran called, genuinely pleased. "Now, let me show you again. You can make it easier for yourself if you bend your knees a little. And go a bit harder on the swing. Watch."

Simran sent a ball hard and high to the front wall. It pinged off and sailed through the air to the back of the court. It touched the back wall, and dropped slowly to the floor. Just before it bounced, Simran wound herself up for a big return shot, twisting her torso so that her shoulders were almost at ninety degrees to her hips. She quickly bent her knees just a few inches before twisting her hips, bringing her shoulders back around at an incredible speed. 

As soon as the ball shot off her racquet, Simran yowled in pain, dropped her racquet and fell hard to the floor with a sickening thud as her knees struck. She lurched forward on to her hands and slowly rocked back and forth.


Seema's Journey Ch. 01



"Owww, no, no, no! Shit!" Simran cried out in pain. 

For a split second, Seema was frozen with shock as she watched Simran groan in pain. She dropped her racquet and rushed over to Simran who seemed unable to move.

"Oh my gosh! Sim, what happened?" Seema put her arm around Simran's shoulders, leaning down to look at her face. Simran had her eyes shut tight, her face screwed up in pain. Tears were oozing from the corners of her eyes, tracing wet lines down the side of her nose and cheeks before dripping to the floor. She gently squeezed Simran's arm. "Sim, honey, what happened?"

"Oww, ow, ow, it's my back. Something went pop!" she groaned between gritted teeth. "It really hurts Seem. Shit. Fuck!" 

The expletives shocked Seema. She had never heard Simran swear like this. Simran was starting to shake, crying in pain. Seema looked around helplessly. "Oh honey...ummmm, shall I go call an ambulance? It's my fault for being crap at squash. I'm sorry."

"Oh, Seem, it's not your fault..." Simran grimaced and groaned. "It's my fault. No, no ambulance. Let's get home. To your place. You'll have to drive my car, is that ok?"

Seema nodded and hugged Simran's shoulders. "Yeah, that's fine."

There was now a small audience gawping through the perspex, several men seemingly staring appreciatively at Simran's backside. Seema flicked them a glare, not wanting anyone to see her friend prostrate and in pain, and certainly not wanting any man appreciating Simran's bottom.

"I'm sorry," groaned Simran. "I've spoiled our evening 'cos I was showing off!" 

"No no, Sim. Come on, let's get you back to mine."

With a little effort and a few yelps and yowls, Seema managed to help Simran to her feet. She retrieved their racquets and sports bags, and slowly she led a stiff and hobbling Simran out of the court. She handed the racquets back and reassured the receptionist that Simran would be ok. 'No, we won't make any legal claim.' thought Seema, sarcastically.

"Where are your keys, honey?" Seema asked as they eventually reached the car. She kept her arm tight around Simran's waist, holding her up as best she could. 

"They're in my inside pocket...ooowwww." Simran dipped her head, obviously still in pain and instantly making Seema feel bad about enjoying the intimacy of their slow walk to the car.

"Which inside pocket?"

"Inside my leggings." Simran was crying again. "I can't bloody move."

"Ok babe. Ok."

Simran tried to stand up by herself and slip a hand under the tight elastic of the waist band of her leggins. She yelped and gave up.

"Ok, hold on honey. I'll get them." Seema was genuinely worried that Simran had done something serious to her back. Simran's entire body seemed to be held rigid in one long and obviously painful spasm.

"Ok." Simran whispered, tears streaming down her face. "This side." She nodded to her right.

Seema hooked a thumb under the waistband of Simran's leggins. Her pulse quickened as her thumb came into contact with the soft and warm skin of Simran's waist. Seema swallowed hard and hastily retrieved Simran's keys. She thumbed the central locking and proceeded to help her friend into the passenger seat.

"Ok honey?"

"Yeah. Thanks Seem." Simran groaned as she tried to find herself a comfortable position. Seema helped her with her seatbelt, closed the door and ran around to the driver's door. She got in quickly, adjusted the seat, started the car and slowly pulled out of the car park, taking care not to accelerate or brake too hard. She looked over to Simran, still in severe discomfort. Simran gave a wan smile and then closed her eyes. 

Seema squeezed her friend's hand affectionately and pulled the car on to the busy road back home. All she really wanted to do was hug her tight.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Although Simran's back pain had eased during the journey back, it was still an effort for her to climb the four steps up to the door of Seema's flat. Seema had her arm around Simran as she unlocked her door, still concerned that Simran had seriously injured herself. Simran was adamant that she just wanted to get back to Seema's. No doctors and definitely no A and E.

Seema shut the big old wooden door, threw her keys on to the little table next to the telephone, and guided a hunched-up Simran to the sofa.

"Gosh, I feel cold!" Simran said as she struggled down in to the soft sofa. 

"It is chilly in here. All very well having one of these flats, but old converted factories are a bugger to heat. I'll get a fire going, and I'll get a blanket for you. You going to be ok honey?" Seema kneeled in front of Simran and gently squeezed her knee.

"Yeah. You're so good to me." Simran looked to be on the verge of tears. "Don't worry about a fire..."

"It's fine! After all you've done for me...besides which," Seema smiled. "We're soul-sisters, remember?"

Simran smiled back bringing light to her pretty face. Seema kicked her trainers off and padded in to the bedroom. She returned with a large and very warm looking bath robe.

"This is the bath-robe you bought me!" Seema said in answer to Simran's quizzical look. "It's great to cuddle up in!"

Seema wrapped it loosely around Simran, who immediately understood what she meant.

"Mmm, that is nice." Simran purred, closing her eyes and wrapping it around her tightly.

Seema busied herself with readying a log fire, something that she had had to master herself since her break-up. She picked a larger log from the wicker basket next to the fireplace and placed it on top of a bed of lighter wood along with three firebricks. She lit the firebricks with the chrome zippo lighter, left behind by her adulterant ex. She sat back on her haunches and watched the flames begin to grow, dancing their way up in bright, random patterns. For a moment she dreamed, making a brief and beautiful association between the growing flames and her relationship with Simran. She blinked, bringing herself back to reality. 

Seema checked to see if the flames were taking hold, and nodded proudly. She glanced back at Simran and with a mild, but pleasant jolt, she realised Simran was looking directly at her, seemingly in a daydream. Seema smiled, bashfulness flickering across her face. She felt herself blushing as her eyes involuntarily flicked about under Simran's dreamy gaze. Seema swallowed hard.

"How are feeling?" she asked. 

"Hmm? Oh." Simran cleared her throat. "Ok, thanks babe." Simran smiled, coming back to the here and now. "Thanks."

"It's cool." Seema stood up and sat next to Simran, wondering what had just happened. 'Probably nothing; get a grip,' she thought. But, although she couldn't be sure, she thought Simran had blushed. 'Doesn't mean anything, ok!' "How's the back?"

"It's just so sore."

"Umm. I haven't got any Deep-Heat or anything like that." Seema looked thoughtful. "I don't know babe. Just rest?"

"Mmhmm, maybe." Simran tried to shift her position a little, but gave up with a sharp in-take of breath. 

"Oh dear, it's still bad, isn't it?" Seema said with a sympathetic grimace. "How about a hot, deep bath? I can go and get us a takeout, if you still want one? Or I can cook."

Simran looked guilty. She held her hand out to Seema, waving her fingers. "Oh Seem, a bath would be great, but look, don't cook. My sports bag, there's some money in my purse. Let's do a take out."

Seema took Simran's slender fingers in her hand. "Cool! You stay there and I'll start running a deep bath. I'll nip round the corner and get us a chicken and chips bucket for two..."

"Are you sure. Oh Seem..."

"Yeah, it's cool! Anything for my Simran!" She pressed Simran's hand, letting it slowly slide from her light grip.

Simran smiled. "Thanks." 

Seema skipped into her bathroom and turned the hot tap on. "I'll put some bath salts in too." she called. "That'll help."

"Thank you!" called Simran.

Seema poured some salts in to the bath as it filled with hot water, steam swirling around the bright white room carrying with it the soothing scent of the salts. 

Seema was proud of her bathroom. She had tiled it and chosen the free standing tub and the gleaming white square wash basin, with help from Simran. She had finished it off with aged pine bathroom furniture and a large square mirror on the wall opposite her tub. Only a few months before, Simran had helped with the finishing touches. A real team effort.

"Ok Sim, it's ready." she called. She heard Simran groan as she tried to lift herself from the comfy sofa. Seema rushed through to help.

"Come on then, old girl." Seema joked, taking hold of Simran around her waist. 

"Oi!" Simran protested, playfully patting Seema on the arm. "Cheeky!"

Simran managed a chuckle as Seema helped her through to the bathroom. She took the robe from around Simran and draped it over a chair between the bath and the basin. "Put that on after you've finished. Believe me; it's so cosy after a bath."

"Ok. Will do." Simran managed to pull her socks off by stepping on her own toes and pulling her feet backwards. "This'll be awkward." 

Realising that Simran was refering to undressing, Seema made to leave. "Right, take your time, have a long bath and try to relax, ok honey. I'll go get our take out."

Simran nodded gratefully. "Thanks babe. I mean it." She reached out and stroked Seema's arm, smiling. 

For a second Seema stood still, basking in Simran's smile and gaze, wondering how anyone's eyes could be so beautiful. Seema smiled awkwardly, and flicked her gaze to the floor. "Back in a bit. If the phone goes, ignore it!"

She closed the bathroom door behind her and fetched her jacket.

"Don't forget the money!" called Simran from the bathroom. "In my purse, in my sports bag!"

"Ok!" called Seema. "Won't be long."

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

As she walked to the take-away helplessness crept over Seema again. She didn't know what to do, or whether to do, or say anything. She mentally replayed all the times she and Simran had spent together, everything still fresh in her mind. She tried to recall the subtlest nuances in Simran's body language, or something she had said, trying to find something that would give her the conclusive evidence she craved. There had been many instances when Seema had wondered whether Simran had given off 'signals', but they were not exactly overt. She replayed them over and over again, but she knew that doing so would only cloud her judgement. 'Simran does not have feelings for me, come on!' she told herself.

But, then again. She thought of the look and smile Simran had given her only minutes back when she was setting the fire. She imagined that Simran had been looking at her all the while she was readying the log fire.

Seema let out a frustrated gasp and ran her fingers through her hair. Her eyes were stinging again.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

The take away was fairly quiet, which Seema was thankful for. Her eyes were red and she really didn't want anyone seeing her like this. Within ten minutes Seema was back in her flat. She popped in to the kitchen to put the brown paper bag full of hot food on the counter. She got plates and forks ready and poured two large glasses of wine, taking a large gulp from her glass in an attempt to calm herself. She popped her head around the kitchen door.

"Everything ok, Sim?" she called. There was a long pause. Seema frowned. "Sim?"

"No..." Simran called back. "Not really."

Seema put her wine glass down and walked to the bathroom door. "What's up honey?" She looked through the frosted glass of the bathroom door, just making out the blurry naked shape of Simran kneeling upright in the bath.

"I can't move. My pain's killing me!" Simran wailed. "It's going in to my leg."

"Oh no." Seema felt awful. She'd left her alone. "I'm sorry Sim. I should have waited before going out. Sorry."

"It's ok. I think I need help though." Simran muttered a few frustrated expletives as she splashed around trying to move in the bath. "This is so embarrassing."

"You want me to come in?" Seema's heart missed a beat. She ran her hand through her hair.

"I'm sorry, yes. I can't move." Simran's voice wobbled. "I can't even wash myself..."

Seema blinked hard, put her hand on the bathroom door-knob and twisted it. She pushed the bathroom door open and crept in, trying to keep her gaze averted. The room was wonderfully warm and steamy.

Simran was kneeling awkwardly in the bath, her hands on her knees. Seema could see that she was obviously in discomfort, but she couldn't help taking in the site of Simran's slim figure. Her wavy dark hair, damp from the steam, cascaded down her shoulders, clinging to the ski-slopes of her perfect breasts. Seema let her gaze linger on Simran's nipples, hard and dark in colour. She let out an inner sigh. 'You're beautiful, Simran.' she thought.

"Still in a bad way?" Seema asked, thankful that her own voice had snapped her out of her vouyeuristic reverie.

"Yeah. Back is really hurting." Simran said between gritted teeth. She flashed Seema an embarrassed glance. "I feel like, kind of useless."

Seema walked to the bath and knelt down, putting a comforting hand on Simran's shoulder. For a split second she saw Simran's back, well-toned muscles standing out either side of her spine which led, in a perfectly straight line, to the cleft between her round and firm buttocks, partially submerged in the bath water. Seema immediately tore her gaze away and back to Simran's face.

"Do you want me to help you out of the bath, sweetheart?" Seema asked, annoyed with herself as she heard her own voice wobbling.

Simran heard the wobble. "I'm sorry Seem. I'm sure you didn't want to see me naked like this." She looked away, embarrassed.

Seema smiled awkwardly, her heart fluttering and eyes flicking this way and that. "It's ok. I know what lady's bits look like!"

Simran chuckled, and looked down at the steamy water. There was an awkward silence. 

"Shall I get a towel; help you out of the bath?" Seema asked. 

Simran looked her in the eye. "Well, yeah," Simran closed her eyes and sighed awkwardly. "But, can you soap my back. I can't even reach around because of my back." she said, close to tears. "I still got a bit sweaty playing squash, even though it was cut short." Simran sighed morosely, and looked at Seema. "Sorry."

Seema was silent as she struggled to contain a strange, mixture of emotions; a combination of growing arousal, and desperation borne out of the need and want to once and for all admit her feelings to Simran.

"Ok." Seema's heart was trying to jump out of her chest as she reached for the soap behind Simran. Once again she looked down at Simran's bottom, partly submerged in the soothing bath water, buttocks so well-toned and perfectly symmetric. Seema had an overwhelming urge to strip off and get in the bath. In her heightened state of arousal, she almost suggested it.

Seema felt a familiar warmth in her crotch as she retrieved the slippery soap. She squeezed her pelvic muscles, enjoying the sensations shooting up to her brain. She cupped the soap bar in her hand and placed it between Simran's shoulder blades, rubbing it gently in a circle across her smooth skin. Seema watched as the lather developed, moving her hand further down until Simran's back was covered in sweet smelling white bubbles. 

Simran let her head down until her chin was resting on her chest, and murmured satisfaction, reaching around to move her long hair from her back, exposing more of her perfect skin. Seema returned the soap to its dish and placed her hand on Simran's back.

As she washed Simran's upper back, Seema was overcome with confused emotions. Her brain was receiving hot pulses from her trembling hand as she massaged the warm slippery skin of Simran's back, and from her crotch as she became more and more moist. She didn't know whether to laugh or cry. How many 'good friends' do this, she asked herself. But Simran seemed to be so matter of fact. Seema wanted to cry.

She moved her hand further down Simran's back until it was inches from her bottom. 

"Mmmm. That's nice." Simran murmured. "That's where it hurts." 

Seema massaged the area as Simran groaned her approval. Seema squeezed her knees together trying to stop herself from deriving so much pleasure. Her fingers brushed over the top of Simran's bottom cleft.

"Oo!" Simran chuckled.

"Oh...sorry, sorry." Seema stuttered and took her hand away.

"Don't worry." Simran raised her head and looked at Seema. She smiled coyly, before Seema looked away, embarrassed. 

"I'll wash the soap off. Better get you out ol' girl!" Seema said, desperate to get out of the bathroom. She grabbed the plastic jug she used to swill her hair from the pine table between the bath and wash-hand basin. She dipped it in the bath water, filling it quickly, and then tipped it over Simran's back. She watched in fascination as the soap bubbles were washed off, the water cascading down Simran's back in myriad tiny rivulets, some of these tributaries collecting together to run between Simran's buttocks.

"Wow, it's really nice having someone wash your back!" Simran said as more water was poured over her back. "You should try it some time."

Seema laughed, and swallowed hard. Here was a chance to test the water, she thought. "Who would do that for me?" she asked with closed eyes.

"Well, if my back wasn't hurting so much, I'd do it for you." Simran said.

"Oh, ok! I'll hold you to that!" Seema was churning up inside. She bit her lip as she wondered whether that was a purely friendly gesture on Simran's part.

Seema reached forward and pulled the plug out, hanging it around the taps. Seema stared at the mini whirlpool as the bath water gurgled down the plug hole.

"This'll be awkward." Simran groaned as she tried to lift herself up in the bath. 

Seema moved to help Simran out of the bath, readying a big white towel. As Simran awkwardly stood upright, Seema swallowed hard as she caught sight of Simran's dark triangle, the pubic hair quiffed to a point by the bath water sluicing down between her legs, and through the dense bush she made out her sweet lips. Above this beautiful image, Simran's silver belly-button bar gleamed in the light, a beacon pointing down to her womanhood.

Simran caught Seema's gaze, but Seema reacted quickly.

"Oh, is that a new belly-button bar?" Seema said breathlessly. She quickly moved forward, giving Simran the towel, who wrapped it loosely around herself. Seema was almost grateful that the wonderful sight of Simran's naked body was now hidden from view.

"Yeah, I got it last week." Simran tried to step out of the bath by herself, but gave up with a grimace.

"Hang on. Sit on the edge of the bath and then I'll help you swing your legs over." Seema suggested. 

She had to help Simran gingerly lower herself on to the edge. Then, she hooked an arm under Simran's knees, helping her to swing her legs over and out of the bath. 

"I think I need to go to bed, Seem." Simran said as they walked slowly out of the bathroom. "I'm sorry babe." She stroked Seema's arm.

"It's ok. That's probably what you need. Rest. We can have the wine tomorrow night."

"And all that food! Stick it in the fridge. I'm sorry Seem." 

Seema hugged Simran. "Don't be. It's ok. I'm just worried you've done something serious to your back. Do you want a hot-water bottle to put on it?"

"No it's ok. You're right. Rest is what I need."

Seema smiled. Deep down she was disappointed. She wanted to spend time with Simran. Any time. "I've got the futon sorted for you in the spare room. That's a good firm mattress."

"Oh, Seem. I love you." 

Seema's pulse quickened, a warm feeling gushing over her entire body.

"You're the best friend anyone could ever have." Simran continued. And there, for Seema, was the let-down, deep in the pit of her stomach. The warmth quickly faded.




Seema's Journey Ch. 01



She helped Simran in to the spare bedroom, painted cream like the rest of her flat. She felt hurt. Simran's use of the word 'friend' quashed any hope as far as Seema was concerned. Though, she couldn't blame Simran. Simran was a normal, man-loving girl. Seema wished that she could be the same.

She pulled the fresh smelling quilt down, flicked the bed-side table lamp on and waited while Simran dried herself, keeping the towel wrapped around her. The potential eroticism of watching Simran rub herself back and front through the towel was lost on Seema who was staring at the floor, lost in her own thoughts. 'Just enjoy her company, ok' she thought.

"You ok?" Simran asked. She was squeezing her hair dry with a corner of the towel.

Seema looked up and forced a smile. "Hm? Yeah." She helped Simran down on to the futon into a comfortable position on her side.

"You know earlier, when you rubbed my back...?" Simran said.

"Yes." Seema answered.

"Don't suppose you'd rub it again? That was really soothing."

"Sure." Seema said quickly. She almost slapped herself around the face out of frustration as she felt her pulse quicken. 'It doesn't mean anything, you stupid girl' she told herself. "Lay down on your front then, hon."

She lifted the duvet over Simran as she rolled on to her front. Simran shrugged and squirmed out of the towel, pulling it out from under the duvet.

"Mm, you're so good to me." Simran murmured, crossing her arms and settling her head.

Seema pushed the duvet down until it only just covered Simran's bottom and knelt on the floor beside Simran with her knees on the edge of the futon. With shaking hands, Seema rubbed the small of Simran's bare back, using her thumbs on the muscles either side of the spine, drawing them outwards. Simran's skin was still slightly damp, beautifully warm and supple.

Simran groaned softly. "That is fabulous." Her eyes were closed and her breathing became soft and even as Seema lovingly massaged her back. 

Seema stared at Simran's naked form, her lovely bottom inches away and bare, but hidden underneath the duvet. She longed to let her hands wander underneath the covers and on to Simran's shapely backside, to squeeze those perfect buttocks. And then further to cup Simran's crotch in her hand, to feel her soft womanhood against her probing fingers, and to give her lover the most wonderfully intense orgasm.

She gazed at Simran's face, eyes closed and a picture of relaxation. She wanted to kiss those lips. She wanted to profess her love. She wanted Simran.

Five minutes later, Seema's hands were starting to ache, but she glossed over it, in a dream as she studied Simran's beautifully serene features, partly obscured by a few tousled waves of hair that had slipped down during her massage. She found the slow, soft rhythm of Simran's breathing so calming, almost hypnotic, and found herself breathing at the same steady pace. 

A salty tear falling down her cheek snapped Seema back to reality. Simran looked to be asleep. She lightly stroked her fingers up Simran's back and on to her shoulder. She lifted the duvet, catching a glimpse of bare bottom, and pulled it up to Simran's shoulders.

Simran stirred and open her eyes. "That was lovely. Thank you." she said quietly, squinting her eyes against the light from the table lamp. "Where are you going?"

"I need a wash. How's your back now, babe?" Seema quickly wiped at the light trail her tear had left on her cheek.

"Ok. Better for your massage." Simran smiled gratefully. "Listen, I don't want to sound weird..." 

For some reason, Seema suddenly felt mild panic. Was Simran clued up to Seema's feelings? Seema's face tingled as she blushed a deep red.

"What?" Seema asked, self-consciously running her fingers through her hair.

"Can you sleep here?" Simran continued, patting the mattress.

"Ummm.." Seema didn't know how to answer that. She wanted to scream 'Yes!'

"Would you?"

"Of course."

"Thanks Seem. It's a big bed, it's a bit chilly, and all that." Simran smiled, and closed her eyes. She squirmed around to lie on her side, plumping up a pillow and nestling her head in to its softness. Her hair fanned out behind her, covering most of the pillow with dark glossy waves.

Seema stood up, giddy from the rollercoaster ride her emotions were taking. She padded in to the bathroom, closed the door and turned on the hot tap. Water gushed in to the bath and gradually the bathroom filled with warm steam, swirling up to the ceiling.

She stared into the water filling the bright white bathtub, and her faint and shifting reflection stared back at her. Her eyes were filling with tears again and in the privacy of her bathroom, she made no attempt to stop them. She figured that at some point she would need to be honest with Simran, for the sake of both of them. Honesty is always the best policy, she had always told herself. But she worried that in being honest, she would lose a friend. Possibly forever. But would Simran react like that? Seema thought not. Simran was too lovely a person to react in anything other than a positive way. Seema forced herself to stop crying. 

Seema stood up, wiped her eyes and stripped out of her gym gear. She put a foot in the water to test the temperature and satisfied, she gratefully slipped in to the soothing water. 

She soaped her arms and neck, soaped her shoulders and then her breasts. Then she let herself slip down the tub until her hair was submerged. As the water filled her ears, all sounds were muffled and she felt perfectly alone, coccooned with her thoughts. She let Simran flood in to her mind. The image of Simran's bottom, partly submerged in the bath, filled her mind's eye. Memories of times they had spent together flooded back, secrets and hugs they had shared, the comforting, the text messages they had sent each other. Simran's kind and gentle nature. Simran's wonderful breasts.

As if on auto-pilot, her right hand moved slowly and deliberately down to her crotch. She ran her fingers through her dense pubic hair, gently tugging the curls and massaging her mound. Her other hand moved to a breast, still slippery with soap, and gently pulled on her stiffening nipple. Seema started to clench her buttocks in a regular rhythm, pushing up against her stroking fingers.

She lifted her upper body out of the water, pushed herself back to sit up, and lifted a leg, draping it over the edge of the bath. She moved her right hand further down her crotch until her fingers found the lips of her pussy, soft and delicate in the hot bath water. She pushed a finger inside herself and closed her eyes, pulling the image of Simran naked, back in to her mind. 

Her fingers found her clitoris and she eased into a slow rhythm as she relived soaping Simran's back, magnifying the moment her fingers brushed against the firm cleft between Simran's buttocks. She draped her other leg on the other side of the tub and moved her other hand away from her erect nipple and down to her crotch. She slowly slid two fingers inside, bringing them out and pushing them in as the walls of her soft tunnel pulsed.

She slowed herself, not yet wanting to reach her climax. Seema pulled her legs further back, sliding them along the slippery edges of the bath tub, up towards her shoulders. She had always found the intimate feeling of the soothing hot water lapping at the delicate softness between her cheeks incredibly erotic. 

She filled her mind with a fantasy as she worked her fingers softly, a fantasy that she had lived regularly over the last few months. 

She and Simran were in bed, naked. They were kissing, arms and legs entwined, the warmth of the quickened breath from Simran's perfect nose bathing Seema's cheeks. Seema always made the next move, reaching around to squeeze Simran's firm buttocks, warm and sexy beneath the fresh cotton sheets. Seema would reach further to run her fingers over Simran's moist lips, dipping in a little to feel the wet heat of her sex. Simran would do the same, but she would go further, gently pushing her fingers deep inside Seema. Their breathing would become heavier, their kissing more fervent, only pulling away from each other to gasp 'I love you'.

They would change position, giving each other more room and better access. Fingers would work harder and faster as they both moved their hips, grinding themselves against slick and slender digits. Seema was always the one to stop, gently pushing Simran on to her back. She would kiss Simran's nipples; now Seema knew exactly how they looked, the fantasy seemed that much more real. Then she would lovingly kiss and lick a straight line from Simran's neck, down and down, until she felt Simran's dense pubic hair brushing against her chin. Simran would moan, moving her legs wide apart, telling Seema that she loved her with all her being. Seema would then use her tongue, flicking at Simran's clitoris until her lover tensed and bucked through a long and noisy climax, rhythmically running her fingers through Seema's hair until she relaxed, spent and deeply contented.

In her hot bath, in the comfort and ecstacy of her vivid fantasy, Seema's slender fingers circled and penetrated faster and deeper. She tensed her legs and stomach muscles, lifting herself a few more inches out of the water as she felt the familiar burn of her impending orgasm. Her hands and fingers noisily churned the bath water as she circled her clitoris with increasing vigour. With a muted whimper, Seema climaxed. She twitched and cooed to herself until her clitoris refused to be stroked anymore.

Seema relaxed, slumping down until her head was submerged, her fanning out on the surface of the water. Her breathing calmed, and she closed her eyes. 

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

After her intense orgasm, her mind cleared, and she came to a rational conclusion. Tonight, she would be sleeping in the spare room with Simran. In the same bed. If that was as much as would happen, then so be it. It would remain dear in her mind forever. She would keep her feelings for Simran under lock and key. This way, she figured, she wouldn't risk losing a friend.

She sat upright and pulled herself to her feet, pulling the plug out and hanging it around the cold tap. She quickly soaped her bottom and her crotch, twitching as the soap brushed past her sensitive clitoris, splashed water to swill away the sweet smelling lather, and stepped out. She padded over to the towel rail, leaving wet footprints on the tiled floor, and wrapped her towel around her, taking another to towel dry her hair.

In her bedroom, she pulled her baggy oversized t-shirt on, and padded through to the spare room. The light on the side table next to Simran was still on, casting shadows around the small room. Simran was still, facing away on the far side of the futon, and the light duvet had settled around her body, tracing the shape of her legs and bottom. Seema stopped as her gaze brushed over Simran's bare shoulders. She realised that Simran was probably still naked under the duvet.

Seema hesitated, her pulse quickening.

Simran stirred, lifting her head to look over her shoulder. "Nice bath, babe?" she asked, voice slurred from sleep. Before Seema could answer, Simran waved her hand wearily and reached to flick the lamp off. "Come on. Come to bed. I'm cold and need a cuddle." 

In the darkness, Seema tried her best to calm her pumping heart and her ragged emotional state. In a light-headed daze, she threw caution to the wind and quickly pulled her baggy t-shirt off, letting it drop silently to the floor. She crept to the futon, pulled the duvet back and slipped in next to Simran. Trembling, she pulled the duvet up and moved close, putting her arm over Simran's midriff.

Simran murmured contentment and shuffled sideways, pushing herself against Seema, pressing the warm, bare skin of her back, bottom and legs against Seema's naked form. She gently pulled Seema's arm by the wrist, wrapping herself tighter in Seema's embrace. And then Simran was still, drifting back off to a deep sleep.

Seema settled her head on the shared pillow and held still as her breathing quickened. The sweet scent of Simran's hair drifted across Seema's face. She was conscious that she was lying on Simran's hair, fanned out behind her on the pillow, but her arm was so tightly wrapped around Simran that she couldn't move. She didn't want to move; the feel of the soft, warm flesh of Simran's bosom against her arm, warm and firm buttocks pressing in to her upper thighs and crotch, was intoxicating. She drew her knees up against the backs of Simran's thighs into a loving spoon. She wished that they could stay like this for ever. She nuzzled her face into Simran's soft and sweet scented hair against the back of her neck, and let the intimacy suffuse her body with warmth. 

Simran stirred, pulling Seema's arm even tighter around herself. She moaned sleepily. "That's nice." Then, she was still again, breathing deep and slow.

Seema closed her eyes, and immediately the usual confused questions flooded into her mind. For what seemed like hours, Seema weeped silently whilst Simran slept deeply in her arms. 

Just before she herself drifted off into a fitful, fantasy filled sleep, Seema quietly whispered.

"I love you, Simran. I love you so, so much. So much..."

To be continued.



Seema's Journey Ch. 02



It was nothing like she had imagined it. Simran was positively animalistic in bed, wanting to taste every inch of her body from head to toe and back again. Her voice seemed an octave lower, hoarse with lust as she writhed against Seema. Seema enjoyed it, none the less. Finally, they were making love and Simran was certainly pushing all the right buttons in the darkness of the bedroom, keeping Seema on the brink of orgasm for hours on end. 

Seema couldn't wait to bring Simran to her own a boiling climax. She wondered how Simran would taste.

"Mmm," moaned Simran. "I love your pussy."

She pushed her tongue into Seema again and again until Seema could stand it no longer.

"Oh Sim, please, I want to come."

There was no answer from Simran, save a mischievous giggle as she removed her tongue just before Seema could come.

"Please, Sim. Make me come."

Simran cooed from between Seema's legs. She circled her tongue around, lightly flicking Seema's sensitive nub. Seema closed her eyes. 

"Mmm, gosh I love you, Sim."

Simran's answer was muffled as she pressed her face into the sweet wetness. She circled and flicked her tongue with such skill that Seema soon felt the tell-tale ache of her approaching climax.

"Oh my gosh," she gasped as she pulled her knees up to her chest. Simran's tongue sent waves of extreme pleasure pulsing through Seema's body until she had to release. "I'm. Going. To. Cuummmmm!"

Seema moaned, gulping air down as her body spasmed through her climax, Simran's unrelenting tongue sending wave after wave of hot and wonderful release to Seema's overloaded pleasure centres.

Simran knew exactly when to cease her flicking, moving her tongue down to Seema's wet and yielding opening before her clitoris became over sensitive.

"Ahh, my gosh," Seema laughed breathlessly. "You are so amazing at that."

Simran slithered up until she was looking Seema in the eye. When their lips met in a loving kiss, Simran's lips and tongue bore the taste and scent of her own sex. Seema found it so very erotic.

As their fervent kissing continued, Seema felt Simran pushing her crotch against her leg. Seema ran her fingers through Simran's soft, wavy hair, gently pulling her in. 

"I want to make you come, my love," whispered Seema as she broke away from what was the most loving, erotic kiss she had ever had.

"Ok," Simran said in a silky voice.

They swapped places. Simran lay on her back and gazed intently at Seema. Seema smiled devilishly and kissed Simran's nipples, taking one then the other in her mouth to gently suckle. Simran closed her eyes, writhing in slow motion on the soft cotton sheets. 

Seema climbed in between her lover's legs and kissed a slow, deliberate line from Simran's sweet breasts, down and down, until the soft bristles of Simran's mound brushed her chin. Seema caught the faint scent of Simran's sex as she moved further down, using her tongue to trace a line from the top of Simran's triangle down to the warm fleshy mound just above her...

...Slowly, the moving images became diffuse, sepia tones creeping in from the outside. The depth of field distorted, nauseatingly pinching back from the centre. Then, there was a window, curtains drawn across it. The sun outside tried its best to break through the cream coloured material.

The soft sounds of Simran's pleasured moans, and mattress springs flexing as she writhed under Seema's loving touch seemed to gradually fade away. Little droplets of frustration and disappointment splashed cold across Seema's mind. 

The dream dimmed, replaced by the muted morning sun seeping through the curtains of her spare bedroom.

Seema groggily opened her eyes. Her frustration at the interruption of her wonderful dream was tangible, but there was also a modicum of confusion. Just for a second. Why was she in her spare room?

Then, like a boot up sequence, memory flooded back, and she almost felt miserable. She hadn't had much sleep at all. She pushed herself up on an elbow, rubbed her eyes and yawned. Next to her, the bed was empty, a small indentation on the pillow where Simran had laid her head throughout the night, serene and beautiful in her sleep, her lustrous hair like an obsidian flow on the white pillow case. Seema sighed wistfully.

"Sim?" she called, her mind still foggy.

She looked towards the door. It was ajar, but no sounds came from beyond. She spotted her baggy t-shirt on the floor, thrown off the night before. She recalled the bath she had taken before slipping in to bed next to Simran, both of them naked. That memory would remain sharp in her mind. She managed a smile.

She blinked hard against the sleep in her eyes and ran her fingers through her tousled hair. For a moment she sat still, breathing steadily to clear her senses. Her dream had been a particularly graphic affair, which she didn't at all mind. She ran a finger over the softness between her legs and was not surprised at how wet she was. She cleared her throat.

She threw the duvet back and got up to retrieve her t-shirt. She slipped it on and opened the door. Her flat was silent.

"Sim?" she called again. Her voice echoed back from the far wall. She looked across to the bathroom door. It was wide open but silent within. 

Padding first to the kitchen, and then to her bedroom, she realised that Simran had obviously left earlier. She was filled with a sense of emptiness, and a mild depression fell over her. She hugged her arms around her. 

'Why had Simran left without saying goodbye?' she wondered. Seema worried; maybe she should have left her t-shirt on before getting in to bed with Simran the night before. Had Simran woken up, seen Seema sleeping naked next to her, and bolted in disgust?

"But she wanted me to sleep next to her," Seema whispered to herself.

She padded back in to the spare room and stepped on to the futon. She knelt down, crossed her legs and pulled the duvet up and around her shoulders. It was still warm and cosy and she could still smell Simran's faint scent on the duvet cover.

Seema flicked a glance at the alarm clock on the bedside table. 10.30 am. She had overslept. 

"What the heck, it's Saturday," she whispered glumly to herself. 

She was about to snuggle back up in the duvet, when she caught sight of a folded piece of paper next to the alarm clock. 

She picked it up. Written on the front was her name. The writing was beautiful. It was Simran's writing. She opened the folded sheet, not knowing what to expect. In her downbeat mood she thought Simran would say that last night was 'wrong', and maybe they had better not spend so much time together. Seema sighed morosely and unfolded the note.

The message inside read;

Hey Seem!

Just gone back to my place to get a few things.

Couldn't bring myself to wake you-you seemed 

to be having a nice dream! Will be back in a bit

with some things for breakfast. Took your keys

for flat. Will let myself back in! Will try not be

too long.

Laters.

Sim xxxx

Seema re-read the letter. 

She smiled, pressing the note to her chest, suddenly filled with enthusiasm for the rest of the day. Her malaise blown away by Simran's words, she jumped back out of bed and fetched her robe from her bedroom, wrapping it around her and tying the belt as she skipped through to the kitchen.

She filled the kettle and flicked the switch. She took a pint of milk from the fridge and placed it on her kitchen table, along with plates, knives and forks and glasses. The take out from last night still sat in the fridge. Takeout food never smells quite so good the morning after, but Seema didn't care. 

She was so happy that Simran was obviously ok with everything. It was another wonderful gush of relief. And, the four kisses on the note made all the difference for Seema. Seema's dream popped back in to her head. She frowned and chuckled in disbelief at the peculiarly detailed dream. Waking up from that and finding Simran gone, had been a shock. 

Seema suddenly recalled Simran's back injury. She wondered if it was better this morning. She sighed as the memory of her massage flooded into her mind. Whilst she felt great joy at knowing Simran would be coming back at any moment, she reminded herself of her decision from the night before.

"Remember; never lose her friendship, ok."

A loud knock at the door snapped Seema from her dreamy thoughts. A frown crossed her face and she felt mild disappointment. 

"Can't be Sim, she's got my keys."

She pulled her pink robe around her and tightened the belt further as she padded over to the door. She peered through the spy hole but could only see a fisheye's view of the greening trees outside. Seema frowned and opened the door.

Leaning against the door frame was someone she didn't expect, nor wanted to see. It was Jake, her ex-partner. Seema blinked and instinctively pulled the lapels of her robe together.

"Hey, how's my sexy girl," drawled Jake, leaning in through the doorway.

His breath reeked of booze and a recently smoked cigarette, and his bloodshot blue eyes focused somewhere slightly beyond Seema. From his droopy inane grin, remnants of an expensive cologne and his dishevelled jeans and designer shirt, he had obviously spent the whole night out.

"J...Jake, what are you doing here?"

"Can I come in?" He ran his fingers through his thick matt of blonde hair.

"Well, no. You can't."

"Aww, come on, girl," Jake said, unsteadily pushing his bulk upright with his elbow. He grunted at the effort.

"Jake, why are you so drunk? It's not even near lunchtime yet."

"Ah...bit of an all-nighter. Went out straight after work with the boys, y'know. Look, I'll cut the crap and get straight to the point. I've seen the errors of my ways, you know. I want us to~," Jake belched. "I want us to try again, yeah? You and me..."

After an incredulous pause, Seema laughed sarcastically. "You mean your blonde has dumped you!"

"Yeah." Jake frowned and slowly made sense of what Seema had suggested. "I mean, no, no. I dumped her. Obviously!"

"Really."

"Yes, really. Look, what my friends used to say..."

Seema shook her head. Jake's friends had never liked her. She recalled many an awkward evening sat amongst them; posh dinner parties or expensive clubs where a round of drinks cost an arm and a leg. Her skin used to crawl as they mentally undressed her, or worse, just plain ignored her as if she was beneath them all. Seema was certainly not upper class like Jake and his cabal. She wondered why the heck she had put up with it.

"Jake, don't bother~"

"What my friends used to say about you being..." Jake gesticulated, drunkenly flapping his arms around. "I never took any notice..."

"What, a woman?" Seema was getting impatient. She wanted Simran back and Jake out of her apartment.

"No. You know. Me and you, and me being white and everything, and you being a..."

Seema recoiled as if she had been struck, her face screwing up, hurt and shocked at the thought of Jake and his despicable friends making horrid and lewd comments about her. She could well imagine what was said after they had broken up. Tears stung her eyes.

"You bastard, Jake!" she said in an unsteady voice. "Go away and don't ever bother coming b~."

Before she could slam the door in his hideous face, Jake lunged through the doorway slamming the door back against the wall and almost knocking Seema off her feet.

"Stop it, get out!" she yelped.

Jake was too heavy and too strong. He grasped Seema by the shoulders, an angry look in his eyes as he glared down at her.

"Calm down my princess," he said between gritted teeth.

"Oww," Seema gasped. "Jake, you're hurting me. Get off!"

Jake let go, held his hands up and forced a smile. "Ok, ok!"

"Jake, I want you to leave." Seema was beginning to feel vulnerable.

"Well, I'm not going to leave. Look, I'm sorry about barging in, ok."

Jake pushed the door behind him, but it didn't shut.

Seema patted her chest and took a deep breath trying to stop her voice from wavering. "Ok. But I want you to go. You're scaring me."

"Scaring you!" Jake laughed incredulously. "Why would I wanna scare you?"

"Jake, please, I want you to go." Seema peered passed Jake's muscular frame towards the front door. It was still ajar, but he was effectively blocking any route for escape.

"Look, princess. We were made for each other. Remember our first holiday? Remember how happy we were? Remember the sex? The great sex. Remember moving in to this flat?" Jake waved his arm. "This was our flat." 

"That I paid for, remember?"

"But you wouldn't be in this flat if it wasn't for the fact that we were a couple, and my parents made the deposit. Remember?"

"Jake~"

"It's way too big for you on your own, and you've hardly got any stuff in here anyway! It's like the waiting room of a doctor's surgery. Look, princess, I'm due a shit-load of money soon, parents and work bonuses, y'know. I can move back in and we can get this flat looking way better. Look at your TV! It's shit! Not even got a hi-fi. A cheap sofa. Cheap everything!"

"Jake, you forfeited everything because of that blonde. None of this is yours now. And~"

"Princess," Jake said smoothly, walking towards Seema. 

Seema was starting to feel scared. He had a menacing look in his eye and she was well aware of his temper, especially when he was fuelled with alcohol.

"Princess," Jake chuckled. "Why the scared look, hmmm?"

Seema quickly walked sideways to the sofa and sat down, glancing at the front door a few inches ajar. She crossed her legs and wrapped her arms tightly around herself.

Jake sidled over and knelt down in front of Seema. She tried to avoid his gaze but he grinned without humour and rolled his head from side to side trying to secure her look.

"Jake, just go, ok. Someone's coming round at any moment."

"What? That little boyish girl? What was her name?" Jake rubbed his chin. "Oh yeah, Simran, wasn't it?"

Seema stayed silent.

"Hm. Simran. Best of mates, you two, eh! Years now, isn't it? Saw her leaving this morning. Spend the night, did she? You know she's a dirty little slut, don't you? Fucks anything with a dick." A cruel laugh erupted from Jake's slack mouth.

"No, she isn't!" Seema blurted, glaring furiously at Jake. "She's been a good friend to me. And I don't like the idea of you spying."

"I wasn't spying, princess. What's to spy on, anyway? Got something to hide?"

Jake put his hand on Seema's knee.

"Get off!" Seema brushed his hand away, stealing a quick and desperate glance to the door. She felt frightened and her heart was beating fast.

Jake's lewd smile left his face. His eyes took on a malicious glint as he put his hand on her knee again and again, only for Seema to brush it off.

"Get off!" Seema yelped, looking towards the door again. She wanted to escape.

Suddenly, Jake lunged forward to kiss her, his foul breath making her feel sick. She instinctively pushed him away with a sudden panic-rush of strength, causing him to topple back awkwardly on his knees.

"Just bloody well go away!" she screamed. 

Jake's upper lip curled into a snarl. With a motion too quick for Seema's reactions, he swung his arm, slapping her hard across the face, the crack of skin on skin a brittle echo around the apartment.

Seema yelped in pain and fell backwards on the sofa. Tears stung her eyes and pain flared across her cheek. For a short moment, everything blurred and her right ear rang from the crack of his slap. The totality of her shock and horror paralyzed her. She stared in helpless disbelief as Jake swiftly undid his belt and zipper, dropping his jeans to reveal an obscene semi flaccid erection. He peered down at his member and angrily milked it between thumb and finger, willing it to harden.

Seema's senses returned, pure panic clearing her mind. She saw her opportunity and tried to jump up from the sofa, but Jake lunged and pushed her down, savagely catching her face hard with his elbow. She wailed as the pain and salty taste of her own blood registered. She tried to scream but her lungs seemed unable to expel any air. She pulled at his hair and rained feeble punches to his head, but Jake easily managed to pin her wrists above her head to the sofa using one strong hand.

He pushed against her knees with is hips as he wrenched her legs apart and suddenly his penis was against her. He snarled as he thrust against her mercilessly, drool dripping from his booze-slackened mouth. His nostrils flared in angry frustration as his limp penis blindly jabbed at her, failing to fully penetrate.

Seema tired from her thrashing as she tried with all her might to break free. She was only dimly aware of her surroundings as her brain protectively shut everything out. She was aware of her own high-pitched wailing and weak, flailing legs, but it felt as if she was a distant observer. All she wanted was for this to be over, and not have to see Jake's ugly, straining features as he moved against her, grunting and muttering through gritted teeth. She stared up at the ceiling.

But something caught her attention, partially bringing her out of her waking nightmare. She heard a scream, spotted a flash of movement, then heard a dull thud; something heavy against something hard. More screaming, angry screaming. Jake released her wrists from his vice-like grip.

Her surroundings abruptly came back in to focus. She sat up, her whole body convulsing, and babbled incoherently as her senses returned. There was a shout, and another angry scream full of shock.

"Bastard! Fucking evil bastard!"

It was Simran. Seema cried out in relief, and held her arms out to her, wailing her name.

Simran aimed another blow at Jake, but only managed a glancing effort to his shoulder. She was wielding a small saucepan in a two-handed grip. 

"Sim...," wailed Seema.

"Fuck off you fucking psycho!" yowled Jake, glaring at Simran. His eyes were wide with shock as he wiped at a thick river of blood oozing its way down his forehead. 

"Get out!" Seema howled, crying in convulsive gasps. She had fallen off the sofa to her knees, but she didn't have the strength to stand up.

Simran jumped across to put herself between Seema and Jake. She aimed another blow, hitting Jake square on his arm as he covered his head defensively.

"Fuck. Fuck. Fuck! Fucking psycho!"

"Go away, now!" Simran screamed, her voice hoarse and cracked. "Fuck off!"

The screams and shouts battered at Seema's shattered senses. She pressed her hands to her ears and closed her eyes.

Jake staggered to his feet and hastily pulled his trousers back up, lifting an arm to fend another powerful blow accurately aimed at his bleeding head. He lurched towards the open door holding his jeans up with one hand, screaming obscenities. He turned before leaving, a menacing and vindictive sneer on his face as he glared at Simran.

"I'll get you back for this, understand? Maybe I'll have to give you some proper di~" 

Simran charged towards him, throwing the saucepan as she moved. But he was too quick and the saucepan bounced ineffectually off the door with a loud reverberating clang. 

Seema heard his unsteady footsteps as he ran. 

Simran slammed the door and locked the yale. She turned quickly to Seema and rushed forwards, bursting in to tears as she dropped to the floor next to Seema. She held Seema's face in her hands.

"Seem, oh shit, Seem. What's he done to you? Shit, no, no, no. You're bleeding." She dabbed at the blood oozing from Seema's top lip.

Seema convulsed and choked on her wracking sobs. She put her arms around Simran and hugged her tight, nuzzling in to her chest, not wanting to ever let go. She felt safe now.

"Forgot to ask," Seema said deliriously between convulsive sobs. "How's your back, Sim? Are you staying now? Don't go anywhere now. I want you to stay here. Please. Stay here. Don't go anywhere." Seema's words trailed off as her uncontrollable sobs choked her speech.




Seema's Journey Ch. 02



Simran sobbed and wrapped her arms protectively around Seema.

"It's ok, Seem. It's ok," she whispered, brushing her lips across Seema's forehead. She blinked tears from her eyes as she gently rocked back and forth. "It's ok now. I should have stayed here. I'm sorry. It's ok now. I'm not going anywhere."

#

An hour had passed since Jake's visit. Apart from moving up on to the comfort of the sofa, Seema and Simran hadn't changed position. Seema clung on to her friend, drawing comfort from her soft reassurances; neither wanted to move.

Simran had mentioned calling the police, but Seema panicked, pleading with her not to call them.

"But sweetheart, he..." Simran couldn't bring herself to say the words.

"Sim, please don't call them," Seema had said. "What would they do? They never do anything."

"Yes they would! They need to be told."

"No, Sim, please~"

"Honey, what if he comes here again?"

"No, please don't call them."

Simran had remained silent. Seema's voice was still hoarse, thick with shock. She lightly kissed the top of Seema's head as she wrapped her arms tighter around her shoulders, closing her eyes tight.

Now, Seema had calmed, the wracking sobs petering out. It was nearing lunchtime.

"Seem?" whispered Simran.

Seema inhaled quickly, her body jolting slightly as she awoke. She looked up at Simran with bloodshot eyes.

"Hmm?"

"Sorry, you were asleep. Sorry babe."

"It's ok. You're not going, are you?"

"No, no, no. I'm not going anywhere."

Simran gazed in to Seema's eyes, a soft and reassuring smile on her lips. But her smile disappeared when she saw the red welt on Seema's cheek left by Jakes cruel slap, and on her lip, a thin dark red gash. 

She gently stroked Seema's red cheek and then lightly ran a finger over her cut lip. Miraculously, it didn't seem to be swelling.

"I really think we need to call the~"

"No Sim. To them, a domestic is just an annoyance." Seema made her words final.

"Ok." Simran exhaled slowly and gently pulled Seema's head back to her chest, soothingly running her fingers through her hair. 

#

They had both fallen asleep. 

For Simran, the shock of witnessing Seema's ordeal had taken its toll, leaving her numb. She was wracked with guilt at leaving Seema alone. If she hadn't returned when she had...

As Seema's breathing had deepened, so had hers. They had fallen asleep, cuddling each other tight.

Seema's eyes opened slowly. They were still stinging and her throat felt like sandpaper. Images of Jake flashed across her mind like burning hot spikes, ruining what should have been a wonderful feeling; waking up in Simran's arms. 

Seema glanced at her clock. It was mid-afternoon. 

As she stirred, so did Simran. For a moment, she stared up into Simran's face, watching her eyes slowly open and coming in to focus. She stroked Simran's cheek.

"Thank you."

"For what, honey?" Simran whispered, blinking her eyes as she woke properly.

"For getting rid of Jake."

Simran's upper lip quivered. "Seem, you don't have to thank me for that. No one does that to my..." She swallowed. "To my friend."

Friend. 

Seema suddenly felt a tidal wave of emotions, its weight and volume far too much for Seema to even attempt to contain. She needed to let everything out. All of it. She tried to smile, but the tears came anyway. 

Simran kissed her forehead. "It's ok. I'm not going anywhere~"

"Oh, Simran," Seema gasped. She closed her eyes. She knew full well what she was about to say. Dread filled the pit of her stomach.

"It's ok, Seem," Simran said. 

Simran tried to put her arms around Seema, but Seema shook her head, gently resisted and sat upright. Seema knew that what she was about to say would probably change things for ever, probably for the worst. But shock had destroyed her sense and her barriers. She just couldn't stop herself. 

"No, Sim, it's not ok."

Simran frowned. "What, Seem? Look, I only want to call the police because~"

"No, it's nothing to do with that." Seema shook her head as her tears streamed down her face. She looked Simran in the eye. "It's not ok because..."

Seema's stomach was churning. She looked at Simran, desperately willing her to guess what was she was about to divulge. Surely she must have an inkling at the very least? Surely? Please say it for me, please.

Simran placed a hand on Seema's arm. "What?" she whispered.

"I love you." Seema held her breath and screwed her eyes shut.

There was a long pause, a pause which seemed to last aeons. She felt like she wanted to shrink away to nothing, feeling that she had now damaged their friendship for good, just by uttering three simple but very stupid words.

"I love you too, but I~"

"No, Simran. I mean, I love you. Not like friendly love, not like sisterly love~"

Simran blinked at Seema's rising frustration.

"~I mean I love you. I think about you all the time. I want to be with you all the time. You make me feel so happy. I dream about you. I want you all the time..." It all came out in a sobbing torrent, but beneath her instant regret at betraying her feelings, she felt a welcome sense of relief at finally letting it all out.

"I..." Simran sat stock still, her body rigid. "Look, I don't think this is the time for this."

Seema pressed her hand to her tear streaked face. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Shit! Look, forget I said anything, ok. I'm so stupid, bloody stupid." 

Seema made to get up, but Simran gently held her by the arm.

"No, wait." Simran hesitated. "Look, after what happened this morning. It was horrible, horrible," her voice wobbled, "and I just think you need to get yourself together, you know~"

"So you think I'm just babbling from the shock?" Seema cried bitterly.

Simran flinched at Seema's raised voice. Her face fell. "No babe, I~" 

"Well, I'm not. I love you, Simran. I love you very much. I can't help the way I feel. I know it's wrong, I know it makes me a bloody weirdo, but I can't help it. I just love you."

Simran gulped. 

Seema searched Simran's face, but she couldn't read her blank expression. Seema let her shoulders sag, and closed her eyes. "I'm sorry."

"I know you love me," Simran said softly, almost a whisper.

Seema looked up. "Do you?"

"I heard you say it last night, before you went to sleep," Simran said quietly. She took Seema's slender fingers in hers. "I didn't get much sleep either."

"Oh." Seema suddenly felt ashamed and embarrassed. "Look, I'm sorry. If you don't want to have anything more to do with me, then I understand, ok?"

Simran's lips trembled. "Seema..."

Seema looked in to Simran's eyes. "I'm sorry," she said flatly. "Forget I said it. I really want us stay friends though. Please. Just forget I said anything~"

"Seem," Simran whispered, stifling a sob. She leant forward gently lifting Seema's face with a slender, trembling finger under her chin. "I feel the same way about you. Don't you see? I love you too. For such a long time, I..."

Seema froze for a moment, her senses reeling. The depth of field of her surroundings changed, giddily rushing up to her with an imagined whoosh. She had a sudden sense of acute vertigo as her world spun around. She held her breath, and let it out with a laugh and a sob.

"Wh..what?" she croaked.

"I love you, Seem. I think about you all the time, too. But, look~"

"Really? You really do? You're not just saying it because of~"

"I'm saying it because I mean it." Simran's eyes were watery, light catching her welling tears and giving her darkest blue eyes a bright sparkle. "I love you too."

Seema felt like jumping in the air and throwing her arms about in utter relief and joy; months of constant struggle with her feelings, months of keeping it all to herself.

For a moment, they stared at each other, quietly laughing and sobbing. Then, slowly, they moved closer until their lips were mere inches apart.

Simran's gaze fell on the thin split in Seema's lip. She put her hand to Seema's face, her breath catching in her throat. 

"Honey," said Simran, her voice wobbling. "Let's wait a second. Look," her eyes flicked to Seema's top lip again. "You can't even guess at how happy I feel now everything's out in the open."

Seema nodded, the relief all too obvious on her face. She too felt incredible. She shook her head in disbelief.

"But," Simran continued, tears trickling down her cheeks. "It doesn't feel right, at the moment."

"But, we've just admitted our feelings," gushed Seema. "That's great isn't it? We can't not do anything about it, surely."

"No, no," pressed Simran. She shook her head and took Seema's hands in hers, not wanting her to misunderstand. "I mean, after what's happened. I want to kiss you so, so much, but not while you're still in shock, you know? It doesn't feel right. It almost feels like taking advantage~"

"But, but, Sim, we've just...I want it too..."

"Not yet, babe," Simran whispered. She sniffed and wiped the tears from her eyes. "He hit you, and he... did something awful to you and you need to...you need to get back to being my Seema. Can you see? Please understand, Seem." 

Simran searched Seema's face.

"Ok, yeah, I understand. I think." A chill washed over Seema's body as the images of her ordeal with Jake flashed across her mind. She ran her tongue over the gash in her lip and winced. "You do mean it though, don't you? This isn't all a dream? You do love me don't you~"

"Yes. Yes, I do Seem," Simran weeped. She took Seema in her arms.

In her passionate and caring embrace, Seema began to understand Simran's emotions. She wished the circumstances to be different, to be more fitting for what they had just admitted to each other. She wanted Seema back to her normal self, to a state of mind where she properly understood how much she loved her. Seema sensed Simran's guilt at leaving her alone in the apartment, and squeezed tighter.

"Believe me," sobbed Simran. "I love you more than you know."

#

Seema took a long soothing bath. Simran called through the door every so often, checking that everything was ok. 

"I'm fine thanks, love," answered Seema each time.

Seema experienced an odd mixture of feelings as she let the hot bath water balm her body. She felt extreme happiness, the butterflies in her tummy, disbelief when she thought of Simran's love. She loves me, she loves me! It was like the first time she had fallen in love, except a hundred times better. No, a million times better. She thought of all the occasions she had fretted over her feelings, thinking she was abnormal for loving another woman. She had spent so long pining for Simran's love that it had become the norm for Seema. Now, the situation was very different. Seema closed her eyes and let the glorious bubbly feelings of new found true love pulse through her veins.

But then, there were the cold chills that coursed through her being. Jake. She shivered, feeling nauseous, unclean and horribly violated. She washed herself for the tenth time and wondered if she would ever feel clean again.

"Everything ok, honey?" called Simran from the other side of the bathroom door.

"Yes thanks, babe." Seema looked at the bar of soap in her hand. It had shrunk.

"Ok. You've been in there a while. I was just a bit worried, honey." 

Seema heard the uncertainty in Simran's voice. "I'm ok, love."

Simran popped her head around the door. "It's ok, I won't come in~"

"You can if you want." Seema's voice croaked. Her eyes began to sting and her stomach tensed. She hated Jake for what he had done. She hated him for spoiling what should be a wonderful and happy time for her and Simran.

Simran walked slowly towards the bath and knelt down. She put a hand on Seema's shoulder.

"Things will get easier, sweetheart."

"I know." Seema couldn't stop the tears. "I feel dirty. I'm trying to get myself clean..."

"Oh babe," Simran whispered. She kissed Seema's forehead. "Come on. Let's get you out of the bath. You need some food in your tummy. Come on."

Simran pulled the bathplug out, fetched a large towel from the heated rail and stood attentively, trying to avert her gaze while Seema lifted herself out. She opened her arms, holding the towel wide as Seema stepped out of the tub and gratefully into the towel and Simran's arms. 

#

Seema didn't feel particularly hungry, but she ate. Normally, she would have devoured a bacon sandwich, but her stomach didn't want to play ball. Simran sat close to her, her arm draped protectively over Seema's shoulder. She watched Seema like a worried mother. 

"Ok?" Simran asked. 

Seema nodded and smiled, brushing crumbs off her loose t-shirt and baggy grey jogging trousers. She placed her hand on Simran's thigh and squeezed.

"Thanks," Seema said. She wondered at Simran's beauty. She realised that she would never stop finding her consummately attractive. Even wearing lounge-about jeans and a loose t-shirt, she still looked delectable.

"Anything for my..." Simran hesitated, blushing slightly. She smiled. "For my lover."

Her smile was fleeting though. It was replaced by an awkward, guilty look. She took her arm from around Seema's shoulders.

"What's up?" asked Seema. 

Simran was silent, avoiding Seema's anxious gaze.

"Are you having second thoughts?" Seema said softly, putting a hand on Simran's shoulder. She put her bacon sandwich back on her plate and turned to face Simran. "Look, Sim, ummm, it'll take time to get used to the fact that we're...in love, but~"

"Oh, no, no, no, it's not that, Seem, no I'm not worried about that." Simran looked at her intently. She grasped Seema's hand. "Look, I'm sorry, but~"

There was a loud knock at the door. Seema jumped, the colour disappearing from her face.

"It's ok, it's ok," Simran reassured. She stood up, shuffling on her feet. "I'm sorry." She walked swiftly out of the kitchen to the front door.

Seema frowned, cocked her head and listened. The front door opened. She heard voices, male and female. She heard Simran mention her name, then footsteps coming towards the kitchen. Seema stood up just as the visitors came in to view.

She did a double take. The visitors were the police; a tall, well-built man and a slim woman. Seema glared at Simran.

"I just think we need to at least inform them," Simran said defensively. "Sorry, Seem."

#

The male officer took Simran into the lounge, closing the kitchen door, whilst the female officer sat down next to Seema. She introduced herself and explained why she and her colleague had visited. Simran had indeed called the police. 

At first Seema was cagey and hesitant. The gentle questioning brought back the horror images of Jake's dark and angry eyes. All she wanted to do was forget it all, to wipe it from her mind. Unfortunately, detail was required.

The officer had a kind and gentle manner though, and listened intently and with genuine empathy as Seema answered her questions. It wasn't long before Seema opened up to her and all the details and emotions came flooding out like exorcised demons.

The officer made copious notes as Seema talked, nodding sympathetically but remaining coldly business-like. But, she seemed to pay more attention when Seema talked of her past relationship with Jake, wanting more and more information.

"Has this happened before?" the officer asked gently.

"Well, no," Seema answered.

"Has he ever behaved in a threatening or abusive manner before?"

"Umm, no, not towards me, no."

"Would you describe him as the jealous kind?"

"No..."

"Are you currently in a relationship?"

"Umm, yes, I guess. Yes, I am."

"Why do you think he did what he did?"

"Umm, I don't know..."

Seema became increasingly confused and upset by this particular line of questioning, but she was thankful that it didn't last too long. Seemingly satisfied that she had all the information, the officer completed her notes whilst Seema sat in an awkward hush listening to the pen scratching on paper.

Simran and the male officer returned to the kitchen. On seeing Seema visibly upset, Simran immediately went to her side and put a protective arm around her, gently kissing the top of her head. Seema closed her eyes and nuzzled into Simran's embrace. 

The two officers shot each other a quick and knowing glance.

Seema flatly refused an appointment for an examination.

#

Simran thanked the officers for coming around so promptly. They had details, and were now off to find Jake. Simran reminded them to look for a big lump on his head, just in case Jake denied anything. 

Seema listened as the heavy wooden door closed with a reassuringly solid thud. She heard the yale click and the deadlock being turned. Seema dried her eyes as Simran shuffled in to the kitchen. She looked up at Simran's guilty face and chuckled.

"It's ok," she said, holding her hand out.

Simran grasped it thankfully. "I didn't mean to go behind your back."

"It's fine. Thank you. I think I feel better now the police know. She asked a lot of questions about me and Jake, though." A puzzled look played over her face.

"Well, I suppose they needed to know about it. They know what he did now, and that's important."

"I know. Thanks," Seema smiled.

As Simran enveloped her in her arms, Seema sighed contentedly and nuzzled in to Simran's neck. Her hair felt so wonderfully soft against her face. 

"I love you, Sim," she whispered.

"I love you too, Seem. And don't you ever, ever forget it."

#

Seema sat with her legs over Simran's lap as they snuggled up on the sofa underneath Seema's duvet. They had watched a good deal of late afternoon TV, which on a Saturday is suitably mundane and trivial to allow for total 'switch-off' and relaxation. As Simran gently ran her fingers through Seema's hair, Seema couldn't help hugging her lover tighter and tighter.

She looked up and gazed into Simran's eyes.

"I still can't believe it!" she giggled softly.

"I know," said Simran, her face lighting up with a smile. "I feel so happy. I keep having to remind myself that this is real and not a dream."

All of a sudden, she gently put her lips to Seema's. 

It was a light, hesitant and cautious kiss, but it was such a loving kiss that sent Seema on a magic carpet ride. She wondered how a simple kiss could convey such a huge amount of love. Simran's lips were so soft, so warm. It was so different to anything Seema had experienced before. The warm unsteady breath from Simran's nose bathed her top lip.

Simran pulled away. "I, I'm sorry," she stammered. 

"Ooo, it's ok. That was really nice," Seema whispered, still somewhere distant on her magic carpet.

"But, your lip, honey. Did I hurt it?"

"No babe." Seem stroked Simran's cheek. "And don't worry about my state of mind, ok. You've made me so happy."

Simran still couldn't take her eyes off Seema's top lip.

"What is it they say," said Seema softly. "Out of adversity comes something beautiful. Or something like that. Anyway, you're that beautiful thing."

Seema kissed Simran's soft lips again, lightly pinching her lips on Simran's top lip, then her lower lip.

To Seema, it seemed like the first time she had kissed anyone. It was exciting, daring and new all at the same time. Simran's lips were so wonderfully soft, kissing back with the same gentle and heartfelt passion. Tongues didn't need to explore, hands didn't need to grope. This was a proper physical connection that perfectly conveyed their emotions. It was wonderful. Inside she was yelling joyfully. She realised that she had never loved like this before.

As they broke apart, Simran took an unsteady breath and swallowed hard.

"Wow," she said softly. "I felt like I was on a different planet."

Though Simran seemed a little surprised at the pure emotional pleasure and meaning of their kiss, Seema wasn't. She knew how good kissing Simran would be. After all, she had spent quite a while trying to imagine what their first kiss would be like. In reality, it was so much better.




Seema's Journey Ch. 02



Seema gave a soft laugh. She pecked Simran gently on the lips. 

"How do you fancy eating the take-away from last night?" she asked.

"Mm, yeah, that sounds good. Shame to waste it."

#

As they ate, sat close at the kitchen table, they talked. Seema noticed a change in their interaction; a very subtle change, but noticeable none-the-less. Before, there had been an almost imperceptible tension between them. Seema had thought the tension to be of her making, maybe only existing in her mind. But now, she realised that it must have existed for Simran too, for she certainly seemed more relaxed now than ever before. They were so perfectly at ease with each other. 

Seema now realised why that tension had existed for all that time. She chuckled wistfully.

"What?" Simran smirked, playfully tugging at Seema's hand. "What are you giggling at?"

"Nothing, honey. I'm just thinking. About us." She smiled. "All this time I was worrying about my feelings, and you were doing the same!"

"I know," Simran giggled. "We're a pair, eh! I wish we had realised 

Before, instead of after..."

Simran's voice trailed off. Seema lifted her hand and kissed Simran's fingers. "Remember, out of adversity..."

Simran smiled warmly. "My gosh I can't believe how happy I am, and how much I love you. Am I saying it too much?"

"No way," Seema said softly. "I love you too."

Seema turned everything over in her mind as she ate the last few morsels from her plate. She didn't feel like she had 'come out'. Loving Simran seemed like a natural progression. Of course, she thought, other people, her friends, and Simran's too, would view it as a 'coming out'. But, she didn't feel like a lesbian. She winced at the 'L' word. Anyway, how do lesbians feel? She had never fancied a woman before. She never felt 'different' to other women. She had fancied boys, plenty, too. 

She certainly did not feel different now. Should she feel different? She glanced at Simran. Her beauty made her feel light headed. Even with an errant crumb from the sesame bread stuck to her lip, she was totally delectable. Seema smiled. She wanted to carry Simran to her bedroom and make love with her. She wanted to spend forever with her.

But, she worried, is it just a temporary attraction? No. Definitely not! Her feelings for Simran had developed over a long period. This was no infatuation. Her emotional reaction to Simran's kiss had proven that.

It is love, she concluded. Inwardly, she laughed at herself for questioning it. Whatever it is, she thought, it's making me the happiest woman on this planet. She hoped Simran felt as strongly as she did.

"Sim, can I ask you something?"

"Yep," Simran chirped, brushing the crumb from her lip. She looked at Seema with a quizzical smile. "Sounds serious."

"No, it's not serious. Umm, why did you keep mentioning men and stuff? You know, 'getting ourselves in shape' at the gym, 'ready for the men'."

Simran blushed. She pursed her lips and cleared her throat. "Hmm, well, that was my sad and pathetic attempt at trying to read your reactions. To see if you...or to try and see if you liked men, or...possibly liked me."

Seema chuckled at Simran's lop-sided grin. 'It's not sad or pathetic, my love.'

"Well, now you know!" She kissed Simran's hand. 

They cleared the debris from the take-out and shared what little washing up there was. Seema peered out of the window.

"Gosh, it's already dark out. It's eight in the evening. Umm, Sim, you are staying tonight, aren't you?" 

"Of course. I'll stay as long as you can put up with me," Simran answered softly, moving close and resting her hands on Seema's hips.

Seema draped her arms over Simran's shoulders. She kissed her lightly on the lips. "Good." 'This is love, girl.' she thought.

"Luckily, I brought my night stuff with me," Simran smirked and winked.

"Ahh, well, it'll be too hot to wear anything in bed," Seema giggled.

"Naughty girl!" Simran laughed, playfully swatting Seema's backside. Her face turned serious. "How do you feel? Ok?"

"I'm fine. You don't realise how much you're helping me."

Simran gazed at Seema, in awe. "You're so strong babe."

Seema smiled. It was Simran that was giving her strength. Deep down she knew she was still reeling from what Jake had done to her, still feeling unclean, deeply hurt and violated. But Simran had been her rock today. She had been her rock for months. Now that their feelings for each were out in the open, Seema felt that she could cope with anything thrown at her.

"Hey," said Simran softly. "You look tired, honey."

"Mmhmm," nodded Seema.

"Let's get to bed, hmm?"

"Ok," whispered Seema.

#

At first, they were mostly silent as they washed and brushed their teeth together in the bathroom. They glanced at each other every now and then, bashful but expectant. Somewhere in the ether, Seema realised, was that tension again. This time though, its fundamental frequency had subtly changed, adding a note of anticipation.

Then, there was small talk, plans for what to do the next day, what they would eat, what would happen on Monday for work; light hearted chitter chatter to calm their nerves.

Seema was aware of her heart beating a strong and quickening rhythm. Her dreams and fantasies bubbled up into her mind giving her a soothing and exciting warmth down below. Her legs were beginning to feel a little like jelly as her brain purposefully shut Jake out and amplified her desire and love for Simran; an easy thing to do.

They dried their hands and faces on the soft white towels Seema had fetched. They paused, hesitating at the bathroom door. Simran reached for Seema's hand and squeezed it gently as they stood in awkward silence.

"Where shall we sleep?" asked Simran quietly. Her cheeks flushed a deep red.

Seema did her best to calm her breathing. She flapped at her chest and attempted a non-chalant giggle. It didn't work. "My room?" she croaked. 

Silently, they padded to Seema's room, hand in hand. 

Seema waited for Simran to switch on the lamp above the bed before shutting the main light off and closing the bedroom door with a soft click. Her hands were shaking and her palms were slick. She hastily wiped them over her t-shirt.

They turned towards each other, hands anxiously fidgeting. Then, as they faced each other, Simran began to undress, hesitantly lifting her loose t-shirt.

Seema had difficulty containing herself as she watched Simran remove her top, exposing her exquisitely toned, hour-glass torso. Her hips were like wonderfully smooth arches rising from the waistband of her jeans and her smooth taut skin made Seema want to fall to the floor in reverence. Seema worried that she would hyper ventilate, or even just collapse from over-excitement. Her mouth became dry as she experienced a deluge of overwhelming emotions.

She realised that Simran, too, was clearly experiencing much the same. She had never seen Simran's beautiful, impassioned eyes burn with such desire.

As Seema stood frozen to the spot, Simran dropped her top on the floor. The delicate straps of her black lace bra hung lightly on her shoulders. Held within the lacy cups, her breasts heaved as her breath became heavier with anticipation. In the centre of the cups, as if marking out a target, her dark stiffening nipples pushed against the soft filigree material. Simran undid the button on her jeans and unzipped her fly. Without taking her eyes off Seema, she eased her trousers down, stepping out and shuffling them to one side on the floor.

Seema whimpered softly at the sight of Simran's matching panties, tightly cupping her crotch. Her dark triangle was an inviting shadow through the lace.

Simran stepped forward until she was close enough for Seema to hear her unsteady breath. Their lips met, a quick, soft and tentative kiss that sent Seema to Heaven.

"Will you take the rest off?" Simran whispered.

Seema nodded. 

She gently hooked her trembling fingers under Simran's straps and traced them up to her shoulders. She slipped them off slowly just as Simran brushed her lips over Seema's. Seema moved close and put her arms around Simran, reaching behind to unhook the lace garment. Her trembling fingers fumbled for what seemed like a thousand years, and the strap stubbornly remained secure. She took a deep breath and tried again as Simran brushed her lips over Seema's earlobe. With a little more effort, a slightly worrying tearing sound and a soft click, the delicate strap came apart. 

"Ouch," whispered Simran, chuckling softly under her breath. "You've got sharp nails!"

"Oh, sorry, Sim, sorry." 

"Don't worry, my love," she whispered in Seema's ear.

Simran's bra fell to the floor between them. She took hold of Seema's fingers and pulled at her hand, placing it to her warm breast. 

"Oh my gosh," Seema whispered, inhaling sharply as she lightly brushed her fingers over Simran's dark nipple. 

Simran closed her eyes in response to Seema's light touch, a small shiver down her spine causing her to take a soft and unsteady intake of breath. She squeezed Seema's hand and pressed it harder to her bosom.

Seema stared open-mouthed as she moved her slender fingers to the side of Simran's breast, her thumb brushing the erect nipple. She gently squeezed the yielding flesh, acutely aware of her crotch becoming hot and extremely moist. 

Simran pulled Seema's free hand to her other breast. Seema couldn't suppress another embarrassing whimper as she held Simran's soft globes in her shaking hands, circling her thumbs around her delicate nipples. Simran gently kneaded Seema's hands against her breasts, her lips parted in a dream-like trance.

Then, Simran gently pushed Seema's hands down to her hips and on to the gossamery material of her panties. Seema closed her eyes as she fumbled with the delicate undergarment, pushing it down to the tops of Simran's thighs. She ran her fingertips over the smooth firmness of Simran's buttocks, breathing softly into Simran's ear. She pushed Simran's panties further, gently freeing the material still gathered between her buttocks.

Simran quivered and sighed appreciatively. She shuffled her legs until her panties slipped down to the floor with the faintest of rustles.

Seema gazed appreciatively down past Simran's pert breasts and erect nipples. Her belly button bar sparkled in the dim light, and below that was the soft, dark tuft of Simran's triangle. 

Seema could still not quite believe it was all happening. Her emotions were somewhere on the best fairground ride known to woman, getting higher and higher and more and more exciting with every second. She was suddenly overcome with an explosion of love and desire for Simran. She had never before felt like this.

"Oh, Sim," Seema gushed suddenly. "Tell me this is real and not just my dream!"

Simran stepped closer, cupping Seema's cheeks in her soft palms and kissed her.

"Yes, my love," she breathed. "It's real."

Simran pulled away, placed her hands on Seema's hips and lifted Seema's t-shirt, looking into Seema's wide eyes. Now, it was Seema's turn to shiver at the soft touch of a woman's fingers. Seema lifted her arms in the air as Simran slowly pulled her top over her head.

"Oo, hang on," Seema whispered, her head hidden within her t-shirt. "Damn it. My earrings are caught."

She fiddled with the t-shirt and fumbled awkwardly with the earrings, getting more than a little exasperated. In the end she just removed her earrings from her lobes and quickly pulled her t-shirt off, earrings still attached. 

"Oh, my," Simran whispered, gazing at Seema's breasts.

For a second, Seema felt a little embarrassed. Hers was a plain brassiere, totally unappealing and perfectly sensible, hastily chosen after her bath that morning. But Simran didn't notice, didn't care. She reached behind Seema and struggled with the clasp, nervously, breathily kissing Seema's flushed cheek. Seema had to help, reaching behind herself to finish the job. Simran slipped the straps from Seema's shoulders and as Seema straightened her arms down by her side, the garment slipped off. 

Simran gazed open mouthed, resting her hands on Seema's hips. She gulped as she let her hands wander up to Seema's breasts. 

Seema suddenly shivered, a nervous and choked laugh jolting her as Simran's slender fingers brushed over her nipples. 

"I...I'm sorry, honey..." Simran hesitated, her breath catching in her throat. 

"No, it's fine," Seema sighed unsteadily, pulling Simran's hands back to her soft globes. "It feels so beautiful...so gentle."

Simran brushed her lips over Seema's mouth, her soft minty breath whisping over Seema's face. She delicately cupped Seema's bosom. Her hands wandered down to the elastic of Seema's jogging pants. She curled her thumbs under the waistband and eased the last of Seema's outer garments down and over her bottom.

They slipped off easily, falling down around Seema's ankles. Simran let her hands search out the yielding flesh of Seema's buttocks, and once found, kneaded them gently with her fingers.

"Sorry, it's not as nice as yours," Seema said anxiously. She couldn't stop herself from saying it. Despite her deep desire and want for Simran, Seema had been concerned that she would feel a little self-conscious at being naked in front of Simran. She almost felt a little out of her league. But the way Simran was lavishing her with soft and loving touches, the desire and love in her eyes, helped Seema to relax. For the first time in a long while, Seema was starting to feel sexy.

"You're kidding me," Simran breathed. She kissed Seema's earlobe, seemingly oblivious to anything other than her Seema. "It's wonderful." She delicately kissed Seema's earlobe again. "You're wonderful... You're beautiful, so beautiful."

Seema suddenly felt like crying with joy. All this time she had hidden her feelings, and Simran had felt the same. And now, they were making love. She closed her eyes, listening to Simran's soft breath in her ear.

Simran curled her fingers under the sides of Seema's knickers and pulled them down far enough for them to silently slip off and down to the floor. Simran's movements were becoming less nervy and more purposeful as her desires and emotions threatened to boil over. 

Simran moved back as Seema kicked her trousers and knickers away from her ankles. She took Seema's hands in her own. "You don't know how long I've wanted you, wanted this." Simran's whisper was almost inaudible.

They were naked, a few feet apart. In the silence, all that could be heard was the distant and soft thrum of the Saturday evening city traffic.

Seema took in the sight of her love, her wonderful figure backlit by the lamp above the bed. Glossy, wavy dark hair cascading down her shoulders; perfect breasts with small dark nipples; a dark triangle between supremely toned thighs. And, her face, so pretty, her eyes to die for. 

"Oh, wow, Sim, I think I'm going to faint." Seema could only manage a breathy, strained whisper as her stomach tightened in anticipation.

"I love you Seema. I want you all to myself..." Simran said, her voice trailing off to an inaudible whisper.

Seema inhaled deeply and stepped towards the bed, breaking the slightly awkward but intensely erotic stand-off. She pulled Simran with her. Simran straightened the duvet in one quick and skilful motion before swiftly slipping in underneath the cotton and duck-down. Seema hastily followed suit, feeling a little less self-conscious covered up under the duvet. She gasped as their naked forms came together.

"Oh, Sim," panted Seema huskily. 

They kissed eagerly, their soft, yielding lips coming together passionately, their tongues tentative but willing. Seema ran her hand up and down the curve of Simran's smooth back, her fingers tracing the toned muscles either side of her spine. She stroked trembling fingers over Simran's bottom, squeezing her firm and warm cheeks, pulling her lover against her. 

Seema quivered as she felt Simran's eager hand run from her shoulder down to her bottom, down her thigh and back up. Their touches, their kissing became more and more passionate, until Simran suddenly pulled away.

"Seem," she whispered huskily. She searched Seema's face. "Are you sure you're ok with this?"

"Yes, love, yes."

They kissed again, this time letting their mint fresh tongues and eager hands further explore. They ignored the slight, accidental collisions between their teeth during their over-eager kiss, ignored the wetness around each other's mouths. None of this mattered. They were pressed together in their own shared cocoon, oblivious to anything outside it.

Seema stroked Simran's stomach with her slender fingers, brushing over her silver belly button bar. She ran her hand up until she brushed one of Simran's nipples. Simran cooed softly, letting her trembling hand do the same with Seema's breasts.

Then, slowly and with a growing anticipation, Seema moved her hand back down until Simran's soft pubic mound brushed against her fingertips. She felt Simran lift her leg slightly as she moved her hand millimetre by millimetre until she tenderly cupped Simran's tender and tropic softness in her hand. 

Seema's breathing became ragged as she realised they really were making love. Finally. She was making love to the girl she had secretly desired for so long. A tear appeared at the corner of her eye, but it was a tear for joy. She sniffed as her nose began to moisten. She thought of pulling away from their kiss to apologise, but Simran seemed oblivious. 

Seema whimpered softly as she felt Simran's gentle fingers move to her warmth, finding her clitoris.

Slowly they to circled their fingers, their soft moans slowly rising in pitch as they continued their impassioned and eager kiss. Seema was surprised at how alien it felt to touch another woman's blossoming sex, and having another woman touch hers. It should have felt so wrong, but it felt so fantastically good, soft, hot and wet. Her fantasies, though tremendously sexy and sometimes quite detailed, did not at all prepare her for these incredibly intense feelings. She felt so wonderful, so wonderfully in love.

Simran gently ground herself against Seema's fingers. Her soft moans were rapidly going up in pitch, a soprano's erotic gasp in crescendo. She increased the speed of her grinding, and suddenly climaxed with a high-pitched moan and a breathy gasp as she pulled away from their kiss, a momentary look of astonishment on her flushed face.

"Bloody hell! Oh my gosh!" she exclaimed.

Seema, too, was close to her own wonderful zenith. She opened her eyes and stared in to Simran's attentive and lustful gaze. The duvet rustled softly as Simran moved her hand faster and faster.

"Ooo, ooo, Sim, not too hard," Seema half gasped, half laughed. She placed a steadying hand on Seema's arm.

"Oh, damn, sorry babe, sorry, sorry, sorry," Simran whispered. She kissed Seema lightly on her lips, slowing her hand.

"Oh, Sim, oh my gosh Sim...I love you," she choked, her breath coming in ragged spurts.

She climaxed holding on tight to Simran's thigh, bucking her hips and holding her breath as she rode the crests of wave after wave of high voltage release. As she came down from her fabulously drawn out pinnacle, it was as if choirs of angels were singing beautiful intertwined melodies, a combination of all of her favourite love songs. 

Then, they lay still, eyes locked, catching their breath and giggling. Simran placed her hand on Seema's warm cheek.

"I love you so much, Seema" she whispered tenderly, then rubbed her thigh. "Even if you did nearly break my leg!" She giggled at Seema's apologetic look.

"I love you too." Seema dabbed at her mouth with the back of her hand. "Oh gosh, I dribbled! Sorry!"

Simran laughed and cuddled up closer to Seema. "I'm glad I made you lose yourself, my love!"




Seema's Journey Ch. 03



Seema awoke first, her senses sleepily relaying information bit by bit to her brain. Her right leg and arm were draped possessively over something delightfully warm and her face was pushed into a cosy nook, with something soft and tickly against her face. A hand with slender digits rested lightly on her forearm. 

Her eyes slowly opened and for a bizarre and sleep fogged moment it felt like her face was adorned with a dark gossamer mask. The scent triggered Seema's memories of the night before. She smiled within the soothing mask of Simran's tousled hair, breathing in the scent. Seema felt fantastic, not groggy in the slightest. She awoke fully with a pronounced zest for the rest of the day.

Seema slid her arm up, lightly brushing her fingers over Simran's breasts. Simran remained sound asleep as Seema carefully lifted her head and gently extricated herself from Simran's warm and sleepy embrace. She looked longingly at Simran's breasts as they rose and fell, before gently pulling the duvet up.

Simran had a soft and contented look on her beautiful face as she slept. Seema could have stared at her sleepy features for the rest of the morning. She lightly touched her lips to Simran's. Simran stirred, turning her head towards Seema, but her eyes remained closed. In her sleep, she whispered a barely intelligible 'Love you'.

Seema smiled, a warm flush gushing through her body. "Love you too," she mouthed.

She threw on her robe not bothering to tie it at the front, quietly made her exit and padded towards the kitchen, deciding en route to cook poached egg and toast, giving her beautiful lover breakfast in bed. 

She cast a wary glance at the front door. She hesitated before deciding to check that it was still securely locked. 

As she prepared breakfast, she thought of their love making the night before. She lifted her right hand to her nose. She could still just make out a faint imprint of Simran's sweet and heady scent on her fingers. She smiled and kissed her fingertips, vividly recalling the feel of Simran's sex. She had been so delicate to the touch and so hot and wet.

She ran her tongue over her top lip, feeling the thin ridge of the gash left by Jake's swinging elbow. Though she felt a chill, with a clearer head she found she was able to ask herself why Jake would have done what he did. She guessed his pride had been dented after being dumped. Seema knew how he felt. But Jake had never done anything like that before, as she had told the police. She shivered at the memory, thankful that Jake had been so drunk, and flaccid. She had been spared that horror, she thought. As far as Seema was concerned, it didn't matter that they had once had a very healthy relationship. What Jake did the morning before was horrid. She shivered again.

This particular morning though, Seema relished her happy and effervescent mood, and she almost felt sorry for Jake. But, not quite. Hopefully, by now, the police had caught up with him. They can deal with it, thought Seema.

She turned her attention back to the breakfast, and back to her love, Simran. She smiled, unconsciously running the lightly scented tips of her fingers over her tongue.

As she watched the eggs cooking in the old egg poacher her mother had given her, she pondered the day ahead. She wondered what Simran had planned. Simran had mentioned somewhere special before they had finally fallen asleep in each other's arms the night before. A meal? Theatre? Cinema? Bed, and more love making? Seema closed her eyes and smiled at that thought.

The toaster pinged, pushing up two slices of wholegrain toast. Seema pulled her attention back to the eggs. She turned the heat off and removed the poacher, silently thanking her mother for what she thought at the time a slightly unusual flat-warming present. The eggs looked perfect. She poured two glasses of orange juice and set them aside whilst she slipped the eggs on to the toast.

She carefully arranged the eggs on toast, orange juice and cutlery on a tray and padded quietly back to the bedroom.

She pushed the door shut and placed the tray on the bedside table. Simran had stirred but she was still asleep, snoring lightly. Seema smiled. Her dark hair was still tousled, fanning out in stark contrast over the white cotton of the pillow and the dark nipple of her left breast peeped out from under the duvet. Seema squeezed her thighs together as she summoned the memories of Simran's perfect breasts cupped in her palms.

There was a different fragrance to her bedroom, more apparent after the scents of cooking breakfast. It was Simran's natural sleepy aroma mixed with her own. Seema wanted it to smell like this every morning from now until the end.

Seema leant across to brush a few waves of hair from Simran's cheek and lightly put her lips to it.

Simran inhaled quickly and muttered something incomprehensible. She moaned softly and took a long sleepy sigh as her eyes slowly opened. She turned on her back and stretched her slender arms out above her, groaning as she blinked. She yawned and turned towards Seema, propping herself up on her elbow as her eyes focused. She ran a hand through her tousled hair, roughly finger combing it as a sleepy smile formed on her face.

"Morning, my sexy girl," she said. 

"Hi," whispered Seema. She leant forward and kissed Simran lightly on her lips. 

"I've probably got morning breath, sorry," Simran whispered.

"Hmph, so have I, probably," Seema giggled. "I've made you breakfast."

Simran sat up and rubbed her eyes. "Aww, Seem, I should be doing that for you." 

"Well, I wanted to make you breakfast, so there!"

Simran peered at the tray, and then at Seema's cleavage peeping from between the lapels of her untied robe. "Mmmmm, my favourite! Is it still hot?"

"Mmmhmm."

"Good, because so am I!" Simran giggled. "Breakfast can wait. Get back in here. I wanna make sweet and naughty love to my babe!"

Simran slid down and lifted the duvet, exposing her naked body. 

Seema wasted no time, throwing off her robe and diving in to the cosiness under the duvet, straight into Simran's warm embrace.

#

Seema felt incredibly mellow as she washed the crockery. She looked out of the kitchen window and smiled. They had made love, eaten breakfast, and made love again in a hot and steamy bath. Seema felt light-headed just thinking about it. Fingers had been gentle and less rushed, taking time to elicit the proper slow crescendo towards climax. Simran's fingers had worked exquisitely in the bath, the frothy soap bubbles giving them a Teflon touch. 

In the soothing bath water, they had climaxed together. Simran had hugged Seema so tight, her lasting climax so strong that she wept as she came down from her zenith. 

There had been no penetration though, no fingers exploring. Seema was not bothered by this, but wondered who would take the plunge and do that first. She closed her eyes and sighed at the thought of Simran's fingers inside her.

"Right, if it's ok then," Simran said as she strode in to the kitchen. "We'll go by my place and pick up my work clothes, a few other bits and bobs, and then we'll go for a walk in the sunshine. It'll do you good to get out, won't it honey."

She had such a big and wide smile on her face that, for a moment, Seema ceased to worry about trading the security of her apartment for the outdoors. After all, Simran would be with her.

Simran was wearing a pair of denim shorts and a chest-hugging blue t-shirt. Leather sandals adorned her delicate feet, a thin silver chain twinkled around her right ankle and a matching silver ring curled around her little toe.

"Wow, Sim, you look good," Seema whispered, running her gaze up and down Simran.

"Well, same for you, gorgeous," Simran said hugging Seema close. "I love it when you wear leggings! Our sessions at the gym, hmm, just so I could see you in leggings, sexy girl!"

Seema threw the tea towel on the kitchen table and let Simran's warm lips connect with hers.

#

As Seema unlocked the door, a sudden chill came over her, prompting some unwanted memories. She imagined Jake standing on the other side, his eyes dark with anger and his muscular body coiled and ready to strike. She tried to push the intruding recollections out of her mind, not wanting anything to spoil this day.

"Babe? You ok?" Simran squeezed her shoulder.

"Yeah...umm, yeah."

"Nothing and no-one will get past me," Simran said softly. "Not to my Seema."

Simran put her arm around Seema's waist and pulled the door open, gently coaxing her through. She took the keys, shut the door behind them and locked it before taking Seema's hand in her own. She squeezed it.

"See?" Simran pecked her on the lips. "Come on. Today belongs to you and me, my love."

Seema squinted as her eyes got used to the sunshine. They took the steps down to the car park, past the recently planted birch saplings. At some point the day before, the little park on the other side of the saplings must have been mowed. Fresh bark had been laid around the plant beds, giving the whole area a freshly tended look. Seema had been completely oblivious to any gardening activities. 

Simran's little white Ford was parked nearest to Seema's flat. The nearside mirror was still at a jaunty angle, held fast with strong black duct tape. Simran's attempts at treating a few rust patches over the wheel arches were still evident, patches of grey primer paint mapping out the treated areas. Seema smiled. Like me learning how to light a wood fire, she thought. Who needs a man around, anyway?

"Beautiful day," Simran said as she thumbed her key. Her car beeped its welcome.

Seema still felt jittery, looking over her shoulder back up the steps and casting quick glances side to side. But Simran was so attentive, her presence alone was reassuring. 

"It is lovely," she said as she got in the car. "It's only lovely because you're here though."

Simran closed her door. She stroked Seema's cheek. "Come, let's have a lovers' day!"

Simran fired the starter motor and the little engine spluttered into life. She slipped the car out of the car park and into the laid back Sunday traffic.

#

Simran's flat was on the fifth floor of a glass fronted and recently converted factory building. Ten years ago, this part of the city had been a particularly downbeat area, but since then it had been re-developed and cleaned up. Three other buildings had also been redeveloped and the land between and around the blocks had been meticulously transformed. Trees had been planted, concrete expanses turned into frequently tended grassy areas with stainless steel water features set in raised flower beds. Simran's building had been one of the first to undergo redevelopment.

Unfortunately, the lift was out of action, and had been for several months.

"It's a bit of a pain," Simran said. "But, good exercise!"

They were both so happy and mellow that the climb to the fifth floor was anything but a problem. Seema spent the whole journey up the wide whitewashed staircase staring at Simran's bottom.

"Next time we have to climb these stairs, you can walk in front and I'll stare at your bottom, eh!" Simran laughed merrily at Seema's embarrassment.

"Sorry, I didn't think you'd notice!"

"I can feel your eyes burning my bottom!" Simran giggled. "And I love it!"

Simran's apartment was smaller than Seema's, about half the size. The kitchen and lounge formed one room, halved by a polished oak work surface. Then there was the bathroom and Simran's bedroom. It was certainly compact, but Seema had always liked it. 

Rather than opting for the norm furniture-wise, Simran had decked it out with colourful oddities. Instead of a sofa or suite, she had two brightly coloured giant beanbag-cum-chairs, which were deceptively comfortable. For TV she had a tiny PC with a large lime-green retro-styled monitor, all resting on an orange 1960s style shelf set, all curves and squares and looking like it shouldn't be able to hold anything. 

The kitchen was painted bright yellow and tiled in orange around the sink. A tall and narrow, yellow art-deco style fridge sat in one corner, a small cooker and microwave in the other corner, mounted within simple, but well-designed fitted oak cupboards. It was compact and bijou. 

Seema knew her bedroom was the same; colourful, small and very cosy. There was always a nice smell to her bedroom, a combination of subtly perfumed hand and face creams and the lightly scented oils in the earthenware oil burner on her bedside table.

"Won't be a sec, honey," Simran chirped as she skipped through to her bedroom.

Seema sat down on one of the beanbag chairs, the yellow one. She sank in as it adjusted to her body form. She sighed contentedly as she thought of spending the first proper day with Simran. And night, she thought, resting her head agaist the soft rustling chair back.

"Babe," called Simran from her bedroom.

"Yeah."

"Raid the fridge. We may as well take anything that would spoil. We can have a bit of a picnic. We can take the rest back to yours then."

"Ok."

As Seema sorted through what to take and what to leave, it occurred to her that she and Simran had effectively been a 'couple' for some time. Though, she guessed and hoped they would now be spending a lot more time together. 

Just as she had shut the door to the fridge having filled two plastic carrier bags with food, Simran's phone rang. It was an old fashioned bell ringer which Seema had always loved the sound of.

"Let the answer machine take it, babe," called Simran.

"Ok honey."

Seema walked through to the lounge just as the beep sounded on the answering machine. A stern voice jumped out from the little speaker.

'Simran? Are you there? Well, it's your uncle.'

Seema had met Simran's uncle only once, but once was enough as far as she was concerned. She listened to the disembodied voice which still commanded respect even down a 'phone line.

'I need to have a chat with you. Urgently. About... certain matters.'

There was a long pause.

'Well. Call me when you have a chance. Bye.'

It wasn't that Seema didn't like Simran's uncle Mo'. She just found him old fashioned, and a little scary. He was a tall gentleman with a natural poise and a deep sonorous voice. His eagle sharp eyes were perfectly suited to his big city, big money job, though Seema could never quite remember what it was he did. All she knew was that he was a rich man.

"That sounded serious," Seema said as Simran came back hefting a large sports hold-all. 

"Hmm. Everything is serious to my uncle Mo'. He'd 'phone the authorities if his morning papers weren't folded exactly so." She chuckled as she let the hold-all fall to the floor with a deep thud.

"I'm glad that looks really heavy!" Seema laughed. "It means you're staying with me for a long time."

"You don't mind, do you," Simran asked apprehensively. "I don't want you to think I was presuming..."

"Sim, as long as we're together, I'm happy, ok?"

"Good," Simran said softly. Her smile returned, lighting up her face. "Right then. Let's go!"

#

Simran drove at a leisurely pace out of the city. The grey stone and red brick of the city districts gradually gave way to the open and landscaped regularity of the industrial parks, which in turn gave way to the randomly rolling green of the countryside. Simran let slip their destination.

"You remember we've been there before?" Simran asked. 

"Yeah. It's lovely. You and me had a picnic there, didn't we? Ages ago!"

"Yeah. We did."

Simran fell silent. Seema looked across, feeling a little awkward in the sudden break in conversation. Simran brought the car to a halt at a set of lights for some road works holding the traffic up. She met Seema's gaze.

"That's when I realised I...had feelings for you." She blushed.

"Really," Seema said softly. She put her hand on Simran's arm. She now realised why Simran had been so adamant about spending the day at this particular park. Seema leant across and kissed Simran's cheek. "Then this is going to be a beautiful day."

Simran eased the car forward as the signals changed. "It certainly is, my gorgeous girl."

#

The car park was only just over half full and many people were happy enough to sit nearby on the picnic benches, either letting their children run riot in the play area, or simply lounging in the welcome warmth of the sun. It was roughly bowl shaped which sheltered it from any breeze and made it an extremely effective sun trap.

The view stretched away before Seema as she looked along the wide and shallow valley which was the country park itself. It was famed for its natural forests and meadowland as well as a large population of deer and a beautiful slow moving river which was wide and shallow, and perfect for paddling. Seema guessed the park covered at least twenty square miles.

She protested as Simran insisted on carrying the bag with all the food in, but Simran was playfully adamant. They sauntered through the gate that took them on to the main tarmacked path that ran the length of the park alongside the river. As much as she tried to forget Jake's visit, Seema couldn't help casting a wary glance all around.

Simran grabbed her hand and pulled her close. "Don't worry, honey. Shit face isn't anywhere near. And I've got this!" She hefted the picnic bag.

"I know," Seema tried to laugh. She glanced over her shoulder again towards the car park, scanning the vehicles and faces. She frowned. "It's just that I could have sworn~"

"~could have sworn nothing, ok!" Simran pecked her on the cheek. 

"Sorry, it's me being a daft girl!"

"You're not daft," Simran said softly. "You're beautiful. No-one is going to hurt you ever again."

They walked on in comfortable silence. Seema realised after a few hundred meters that they were still hand in hand. 'This feels so right,' she thought. 'It doesn't feel strange at all'. She looked at Simran. Simran looked at her. They giggled.

As they walked, they passed many couples. There were a few long glances in their direction, Seema realised, but she really didn't care. It felt perfect. For the next mile, they said nothing but glanced at each other, a little self-conscious at their daring openness. They smiled and giggled quietly, amused as passers-by tried their best not to stare. 

Seema felt wonderful. 

#

"This is it, isn't it? I remember that massive tree, oh yes, I remember!" Seema cried.

"Yes, this is it. Beautiful, isn't it?" Simran sounded wistful as she put her arm around Seema's waist, pulling her close. "It was here that I fell for you..."

Seema could have cried. She lifted Simran's hand and kissed her fingers. 

"So, you fell for me when you were still with Kirran?" Seema asked as they walked up the grassy slope towards the giant oak tree. Beyond the tree, a small group of deer scattered, reconvening at a safer distance further up the slope.

"I know, naughty of me," Simran apologised. "It was starting to get bad with me and Kirran. I couldn't help it~"

"Really, Sim, I don't mind! I wish I had known..."

They reached the shade of the grand tree. Seema closed her eyes and listened to the warm and gentle breeze rustling softly through its branches. 

"And we sat...just here." Simran let the bag drop to the floor.

Simran sat down on the soft grass and pulled Seema down next to her. Seema draped her arm around Simran's shoulders. They snuggled up and sat in silence, looking out across the country park and listening to nature purr. Feeling no threat from the softly spoken interlopers, the group of deer had slowly moved back down the slope to happily graze the lush green grass a few metres away from the tree.

"Really don't want to go to work tomorrow," said Seema softly.

"I know," Simran sighed. "I want us to be together all the time. But, it means we have evenings and weekends to look forward to. And any holidays we take."




Seema's Journey Ch. 03



"Holidays! Yes, oh my gosh, going on holiday together!"

"I know, sounds great, doesn't it?"

Seema's melancholy lifted. It suddenly dawned that she had forgotten what being a couple entailed. Her zest returned. They would cook together, shop together; they would be pretty much doing everything together. The gym sessions, too, would be so much more enjoyable now that they were together. No more admiring Simran when she wasn't looking. Seema's excitement grew further as she considered the two of them living together, though she quickly told herself to slow down a little.

"Fantastic, just fantastic!" she gushed.

"Yep! Hmm, I'm hungry. Fancy some food?"

"Why the heck not!"

#

They had to get creative with the unusual selection of sandwich fillings. They joked about outdoing Blumenthal himself. Marmite, smoked ham, jam, soft cheeses, olives, lemon curd and piri piri chicken were all combined in small experimental portions. 

A particularly cream laden chocolate éclair each was pudding. Seema attempted a lady-like mouthful but failed, leaving a large lump of cream stuck between her lip and nose. Amidst much giggling, Simran daintily removed it with her finger. She held it inches from Seema's lips. Seema sucked the soft, sweet goo as Simran made comical sex sounds whilst trying not to laugh.

Seema covered her own finger with cream and offered it to Simran.

"Mmmm," Simran chuckled suggestively as she took a little longer than she really needed to suck the cream from Seema's finger.

"Ooo, that's quite sexy!"

It was some time before the éclairs were finished. Seema hadn't laughed so much for a long time. Some fruit finished off an unusual but very enjoyable picnic.

"Sim," said Seema as she finished her apple. "What are we going to tell people?"

"About us?" Simran idly flicked a crumb off her thigh.

"Yeah."

"I'm going to graffiti the whole city - Simran loves Seema, if you got a problem with that, then tough!"

Seema laughed. "Seriously!"

"I am being serious!"

Seema chuckled and playfully nudged Simran. "I'm just thinking about how to tell Mum and my brother. I think they'll be ok with it. Mum will be happy if I'm happy, or at least that's what she'll say. My bro, well, I know he can be a bit of an idiot sometimes, but he's ok, you know."

"Hmm. Your Mum's lovely. I must admit, I'm not looking forward to telling my family. My Dad is an old fashioned man. I love him to bits though, and my Mum. My uncle, wow, that's another thing entirely." Simran shook her head.

"Why, do you think he'll be difficult?"

"Difficult! Let's say he'll be a complete sod about it. I know he will." Simran frowned. "Problem is my father almost idolises my uncle - an older brother thing I suppose. He'll often do what uncle Mo' says without question."

"Oh." Seema looked into the distance. "Well, we don't have to tell anyone yet."

"No, no. I think we should. I know we've been 'official' for only a day," she chuckled. "But this has been building up for a long time. It's not like we're rushing. Or at least, I don't think we are. Do you?"

"No, I don't," Seema said softly.

Simran looked away, wistful with a faint smile on her lips.

"What are thinking about?" Seema asked.

Simran sighed. "The time when we came here, you and me, when I realised that I wanted more than friendship." She blushed.

Seema cuddled up to her. "Go on."

"Kirran was being horrible at that point, making me feel like I was a worthless piece of junk." Seema hugged her tighter. "And then, I realised that you were the one person that made me happy...gave me a purpose."

"I want to make you happy forever, Sim," Seema whispered.

Despite there being several couples walking on the path, Seema threw caution to the wind and kissed Simran, running her fingers through her hair.

Simran didn't mind at all. The kiss was electric.

#

Seema thumbed the power button of her mobile and sighed.

"You ok?" Simran asked. 

Seema sat against the trunk of the tree, knees pulled up, with Simran between her legs relaxing back against her. Seema nuzzled into Simran's hair.

"Time's getting on. I wish we could stay here forever." Seema hugged her arms around Simran's shoulders.

"Hmm. Maybe we should come here for our anniversaries."

Seema was about to giggle, but she realised Simran was being serious. "That would be lovely. We could bring some posh food, a bottle of champagne, maybe?"

Simran leant her head back. "Fabulous idea, honey."

She turned her head and they kissed. Simran's hair got in the way, but neither cared. After a while they reluctantly made their way down to the path, popped the plastic bag of left-overs into a bin and slowly walked back to the car park. Seema loved the way Simran's arm felt through hers. The day was still warm, and Simran's slender arm had a thin sheen of perspiration. Seema didn't care. She had loved spending proper time with her lover. She wished every day could be like this. 

Seema had always felt she was a private person. Some would say introvert. But with Simran, she just opened up. She was so easy to be around. Everything seemed so natural. Then, Seema thought, there was the physical attraction. Simran looked so good in her denim shorts. Seema smiled, admonishing herself for being so shallow. She tensed her arm, squeezing Simran's.

"You ok, gorgeous?" she asked.

"Mmm, just fine thanks my love. I'm mellow, too mellow!" Simran chuckled. "That's what fresh air does to you. Oh, and good loving, too."

Seema giggled, letting arm curl around Simran's waist.

#

For most of the journey back in the car, Seema gazed at Simran's profile. Simran protested feebly, claiming that it wasn't fair that she had to concentrate on the road and couldn't gaze back. In the end, she gave in and spent the journey with a bashful blush to her cheeks.

The last few miles, Seema ceased her gazing and gently massaged Simran's neck.

"That could send me to sleep which considering, would be a bad thing!"

"Sorry," Seema giggled. "So...what shall we do when we get back?"

"Umm, well," Simran began. She glanced quickly at Seema, and caught her look. Simran giggled. "Oh!"

"I want to make love to my girl," Seema purred as seductive as possible.

"Wow," Simran giggled and raised her eyebrows. "That's a deal!"

She turned her gaze back to the road just in time to stop for a red light.

#

Seema had intended for them to make love on the sofa, but as soon as the door was shut, Simran skipped through to the bedroom. Seema hurried after her, kicking her shoes off as she got through the door to her bedroom.

Simran knelt on the bed and held out her arms, locking her eyes to Seema's. Seema pulled the duvet off on to the floor and dived in to Simran's embrace.

Their kisses were wet and noisy as they grabbed at each other's clothes. Seema surprised herself by deftly removing Simran's t-shirt and front-fastening bra without mishap, pausing a second to take in the sight of her pert breasts and stiffened, petite nipples. Her fingers found the button of Simran's shorts and squeezed it through its eye. 

Simran watched in lusty fascination as Seema's trembling fingers fumbled with the zip, pulling it down to expose the soft skin below her bellybutton. She only had time to pull Seema's top up and over her head, before Seema gently coaxed Simran on to her back and pulled the denim shorts down her thighs. Simran lifted her legs, allowing Seema to easily remove them. Seema cast them away behind her with a playful flourish, giving Simran the quivers. 

Seema gently lowered herself until their mouths were millimetres apart. For a moment, she paused, looking deeply in Simran's eyes. They eagerly kissed, breath whistling from their noses. Seema massaged Simran's breast, lightly flicking the hard nipple with her thumb as their tongues impishly explored and jousted. Seema moved her hand down to cup Simran's warm pantied crotch, her palm on Simran's firm mound and fingers pushing against the tropic indentation of her pussy.

Simran shivered and sighed at the touch, parting her thighs and gyrating her hips. She sighed again as Seema slipped her hand between her panties and the smooth skin of her stomach, through the soft tuft of pubic hair until her fingers were stroking her tender wetness.

The feel of Simran's delicate and wet sex against her fingers was exquisite. Seema felt a rush of excitement as her fingers played at Simran's entrance, nimbly pushing her pink lips apart. She pulled away from their kiss and slid down the bed until she was able to take Simran's nipple in her mouth. She circled her tongue and gently sucked, feeling the tender nub stiffen further. As she suckled Simran's nipple, Seema daringly slid a finger inside Simran's pussy.

"Oh my," whispered Simran. She quivered as Seema's finger snaked it's way further inside. "Seem, I love you, I love you..."

Seema pressed herself against Simran's thigh as she stroked her finger quicker. 

"Mmm, babe, ooo," Simran placed a steadying hand on Seema's neck. "Not too hard, not too hard." She chuckled.

Seema slowed her fingers.

"No, honey, my nipple," Simran half laughed, half gasped. 

Seema slipped her hand from inside Simran's panties, pulled away and shuffled back up to kiss Simran. She was surprised at how wet her fingers were and carefully held them away from Simran's skin as she ran her hand eagerly over Simran's naked torso. She felt so happy that she was able to turn Simran on so easily.

Simran lifted herself up and in one swift motion somehow flipped Seema on to her back. Seema giggled as she ran the fingers of her other hand through Simran's long wavy hair trying to kiss her, but failing. Simran had other ideas. 

She pulled Seema's leggings and knickers down, peeling them off, down and over her ankles, recklessly throwing them away. She kneeled in between Seema's legs and kissed her bellybutton. Slowly, deliberately, she slid down until Seema could feel her lips kissing her dark triangle.

"Oh wow, Sim," Seema whimpered, staring wide-eyed at the top of Simran's head as she moved lower. She suddenly felt a little self-conscious and wondered whether she should suggest a pause in the proceedings to freshen up.

But Simran seemed lost in lust. Her breathing became ragged and she was moaning as if she was already riding through a long and exquisite climax. Simran tentatively kissed Seema's wetness, her lips brushing against Seema's button. Seema twitched and gasped in surprise at the fabulous sensation.

Seema stared down the length of her body. Simran's eyes were closed as she continued to lightly kiss Seema's sex, gently pushing Seema's thighs further apart and moving down until her mouth brushed against the delicate lips of Seema's pussy.

"Seema...," Simran whispered huskily. "Oh Seema, you're beautiful."

Seema felt Simran's soft tongue moving up and down, lightly flicking her button and then pushing in to her. She let her head back down to the pillow and closed her eyes, realising that this had already surpassed her hopes of simple penetration with fingers.

Simran worked her tongue so gently, so tentatively, but Seema was overcome with pure pleasure none the less. She let herself go completely, ceasing to worry about how she would taste or smell to Simran, for Simran herself seemed to be deriving a huge amount of pleasure.

Seema reached down to stroke her fingers through Simran's hair. Simran was concentrating the soft movements of her tongue on her clitoris, sending beautifully hot pulses up and down her body. Every now and then, Simran would move her tongue lower down, pushing it between Seema's rosy lips and circling it around her soft opening. The sensations were exquisite, lighter than the touch of a finger, almost ticklish. Seema laced her fingers between Simran's and parted her legs further still. 

Simran kept her efforts solely on Seema's clitoris, speedily flicking the hooded nub. Seema moaned softly in appreciation as the sensations threatened to come to a climactic head.

Seema opened her eyes and held her right hand to her face. The sight of Simran's creamy juices covering her fingers nearly took her to climax. With total abandon she put her oozed finger in her mouth and sucked, drawing Simran's moisture to her tongue. Feeling exquisitely naughty and totally liberated, she closed her eyes and savoured the taste as if she were sampling a rare and expensive delicacy.

Seema's climax was sudden and hard, arriving without any slow burning clarion call. She called out Simran's name as she pulled her knees up, almost curling up in to a ball as her clitoris burned through her orgasm. For a moment, Seema totally lost track of reality as she let out a loud whimper cum groan. Their eyes locked as Seema's climax showed no signs of abating.

"Oh my gosh!" cried Seema as Simran pulled away. As her peak finally eased, she felt mildly embarrassed at her noisy climax. "Oh my, I'm sorry...I didn't mean to be quite that noisy, Sim. That was incredible!"

Simran giggled, a look of pleasant surprise on her face as she dabbed at the wetness around her mouth. Seema let her knees fall apart as she recovered, twitching as Simran gently pushed a finger inside her and kissed her inner thighs. 

Simran slid up in between Seema's legs until their eyes were level.

"Was that ok, my love?" she asked.

"Ah, wow, more than ok. Amazing. Just amazing!"

"It certainly was amazing! You taste fantastic. Wow Seem, I just love every inch of you." Simran's voice was husky and laden with expectancy. She breathlessly kissed Seema, first on the lips, then on her cheeks and her nose.

"Mmm," Seema sighed in between kisses. "I can taste myself...!" She chuckled breathlessly.

Sensing that Simran was in desperate need of her own release, Seema rolled over, taking Simran with her and laying her on her back. She got in between Simran's legs and quickly removed her white panties. 

"You don't have to do~"

"I want to," giggled Seema. Gosh, do I want to, she thought. 

Simran moved her legs apart and reached down to lightly stroke her moist crotch with her slender fingers. 

"Oh gosh, I'm soaking, Seem..." Simran whispered apprehensively. She glanced at the box of tissues on the bedside table.

"It's ok babe..."

Seema stared in wonder at Simran's pussy. Her dark hair was thick over her mound and thinned out further towards her delicate opening. Her pinkness was unfurled and Seema could plainly see how moist her tender furrow was. Seema couldn't stop herself from staring. Having had Simran between her parted legs, and knowing how it felt, she knew that Simran was giving herself completely. 

"Seem, you don't have to...I'll get some tissue~"

Seema placed her hands on Simran's inner thighs, gently stopping her from getting up. "Sim, it's fine honey. Sorry, it's just that you're beautiful, so beautiful. I could just stare at you for ever, you know?"

Simran settled back and relaxed. "Ok, honey," she whispered between deep and heavy breaths. "I love you Seem."

"I love you too..."

Seema slowly leant forward, keeping her eyes fixed on Simran's. She recalled her favourite fantasy, and kissed a line from Simran's eager mouth, still harbouring her own scent and taste, down between her perfect breasts, lingering on her belly button bar, and lower until she felt Simran's tuft of pubic hair brush against her chin. 

"Oh babe," Simran whispered, high pitched and breathless.

Seema slid her legs out behind her until her feet were off the end of the bed and she was lying flat on her tummy. She slid her arms under Simran's spread thighs and put her hands on Simran's stomach. Simran grasped both in hers as her breathing became ragged to the point where she sounded like she was hyper ventilating. Seema moved lower until she could see Simran's moist and pink lips blossoming through her bush, inches from her face. 

Seema glanced up along Simran's stomach which was rising and falling quickly as she continued to whimper softly in anticipation. Her eyes were closed and lips parted, moving slowly as if she were speaking in tongues. Seema returned her gaze to Simran's pussy. She squeezed her muscles down below, feeling incredibly turned on by the sight and wonderful, light aroma. With stomach tightening excitement, she kissed Simran's silky folds.

Simran twitched and cooed at Seema's soft touch, whispering her name and squeezing her hands. Seema continued to lightly kiss the smooth, moist lips as Simran's dark bush tickled her nose. Like Simran, Seema was lost in her own little world. Having her lips against Simran's sex felt so different, like sampling a new and unusual culinary speciality for the very first time.

Tentatively she licked up and down. Seema found the sensations relayed by her tongue incredible; texture, taste and scent, all delectable and it was all so daring and strange. And so wet. Her lips were quickly covered with Simran's aromatic lube, and the slight pungency on her tongue transformed her nervousness into sensual eagerness. 

She copied Simran's slow technique as the tip of her tongue found Simran's engorged clitoris. The dense pubic hair brushed softly over Seema's nose and mouth. Ignoring the stray hair on her tongue, she circled and gently flicked, using muscles in her mouth and base of her tongue that she had never used before. With her face so close, the soft and wet noises of her tongue against Simran's wet and yielding folds were almost amplified to Seema's ears. It was so much more detailed than her regular fantasies. And so much better. Simran tasted so damn good.

Simran's climactic yelp almost made Seema jump out of her reverie. She kept flicking her tongue over Simran's clitoris as she moaned and jolted through her orgasm. Simran's moans turned to giggles and gasps until she had to place a hand on Seema's head.

"Aah, stop, stop, stop!" 

Seema chuckled, slipped herself up between Simran's legs and kissed her tenderly. Simran wrapped her legs around Seema.

"Wow, wow, wow," gasped Simran. "You're very, very good at that!"

"Ah, it's all about what you've got to work with, isn't it." Seema grinned. "And, you taste wonderful."

"Was it ok down there?" Simran pulled two tissues from the box on the bedside table.

"Ok?!" Seema said incredulously. "It was incredible."

"You made me cum so hard, and you're covered in my..." Simran cleared her throat. "Sorry! I've never had one like that before."

They dabbed at the wetness on their lips and chins with the tissues, giggling at each other's blushes. Seema pulled the duvet back on to the bed and over their naked bodies. After a while they drifted off to sleep in each other's arms, sated and mellow.

#

The musical chiming of the telephone woke Seema. They hadn't been asleep that long, but it was long enough for Seema to feel way too mellow and cosy to get up. She let the answer machine take it, and stroked Simran's head resting on her shoulder.

Sleep pulled Seema down again into its velvety comfort. Her breathing deepened and her body relaxed completely.

Her eyes opened slowly at the sound of the telephone ringing again. This time Simran awoke too.

"I'll answer it, honey," Simran said sleepily.

"Nooo, don't get up."

"Hey, come on you, we need to get up or we won't sleep properly tonight," Simran chuckled, kissing Seema lightly on the forehead.

Seema pouted as Simran slipped out from under the duvet. Simran didn't bother to put any clothes on. Seema rolled on to Simran's warm spot and watched as she left the room, marvelling at her smooth, shapely bottom. Seema could still smell Simran's scent on her lips. Sleepily, she brought her fingers to her nose and inhaled slowly. She closed her eyes and smiled.

The telephone had long stopped ringing before Simran had got to it. Seema heard Simran padding back, but the telephone rang again. Simran dashed back and picked up the receiver.




Seema's Journey Ch. 03



"Hello?"

Silence. Simran put the receiver down. But again the telephone rang.

"Hello? This is Simran, who is it? Hello?"

Silence.

As Simran returned, closing the bedroom door behind her, Seema stared longingly at the delightful sight of Simran's perfect symmetry. She couldn't decide whether to let her gaze linger on Simran's breasts or the dark triangle covering her delicate furrow. Or, for that matter, her eyes, flat stomach, legs or feet.

"They just hung up. Twice. Wrong number I guess."

"Could be a weirdo!" Seema laughed.

Simran slipped under the duvet and snuggled up to Seema.

"I thought you wanted to get up," Seema giggled and nibbled Simran's earlobe.

"Well, I know we should get up. But, I don't want to either. Certainly not while you're lying here all hot, nude and sexy."

"Oh, so it's my fault?" Seema giggled.

"Yes! It is!" laughed Simran. She nuzzled into Seema's neck and reached around to squeeze Seema's buttocks. Seema gasped as Simran's fingertips brushed over the softness between her cheeks. Before Seema could do the same, Simran pulled away.

"Let's have a bath. A long one. Then early bed. We could read. Reading helps me sleep. What do you reckon?"

"Ok, good idea," Seema answered, mildly disappointed that they didn't make love again. 

#

As they cuddled up under Seema's duvet, skin soft and glowing after a very long bath, it was decided that they should bathe together as often as possible.

"Of course," giggled Simran. "We'd be doing our bit for the environment, saving water et cetera."

"That's right. Though really, for me, it's more about seeing you naked."

"Yeah," Simran chuckled, pecking Seema on the lips. "I vote for compulsory nudity when we're alone together. What do you think?"

Seema's answer was conveyed through a long and gentle kiss. There was no reading. They were genuinely tired. Seema flicked the lamp off and settled into Simran's cosy embrace.

"Can we text each other loads tomorrow?" Seema asked.

"Yeah, definitely," Simran whispered. 

"It was such a lovely day today. Fab idea going to that park."

"Mmhmm. It meant a lot to me. Thank you babe." 

"Anything for you, Sim."

They were silent for a moment as eyes became heavy.

"So, I'll take you to work, then pick you up," Simran whispered.

"Well, if that's ok. I finish earlier than you though."

"Doesn't matter babe. I want to pick you up. I'll come up to your office."

"Mmm, Simran in her nurses uniform," Seema giggled. "That'll be nice."

"Well, if you find boring blue trousers and boring light blue top sexy~"

"You look sexy in anything."

"Not as sexy as you in your black skirt and jacket. Ooo, and those high heels."

They chuckled sleepily.

Five minutes later, their bodies had relaxed and sleep took them into their dreams.

#

Simran dropped Seema off right outside the grand old red brick three storey building that was Seema's place of work. Below the shiny stainless steel lettering of 'Bryant Associates Ltd', the large tinted glass doors silently slid open and shut as clients and employees made their way in. Cars and buses streamed past Simran's little car, the city fumes a stark contrast to the fresh air at the country park the day before.

"Can't I come to work with you?" Seema sighed.

"You know I'd love that," Simran answered, grasping Seema's hand. "But, I think you may get a telling off from your boss."

Seema felt like crying.

"Aw, honey, don't. You'll start me off," Simran said softly. "Look, text me until your fingers hurt, ok."

Seema laughed, wiping her eyes. "Deal." 

Simran pulled a tissue from the pocket of her trousers and gently dabbed the running liner from underneath Seema's watery eyes. 

"There, that's better," she whispered. She wiped her own eyes. "Love you Seem."

"Thanks," Seema whispered as she checked herself over in the little mirror set in the sun visor. She turned and gazed at Simran. "Love you too, my Sim."

She leant across, kissed Simran's soft lips and got out. As Simran drove off, sounding her horn, Seema waved until her car was out of sight.

#

As usual, the documents were piled high on the desk in her glass-walled office. Her Outlook day-to-view was empty save for the usual meeting last thing. Why last thing on a Monday, of all days? She looked at the top page of the paper pile; figures, figures and more figures.

While she and Jake were getting rocky, these figures had helped her. She was able to immerse herself in the figures and their complex relationships, using her brain to work through the loopholes, satisfied at the end. But now, all she could think about was Simran. Seema didn't want to bury herself today.

She retrieved her 'phone from her handbag. She scrolled to Simran's number, the entry adorned with a picture. It was a selfie Simran had sent her a while back. Simran's eyes and beautiful smile jumped out from screen.

"So beautiful," Seema whispered.

She sent a simple text, placed her 'phone on the desk, and reluctantly took the first sheet from the pile to work on.

Within thirty seconds her 'phone beeped. Simran had replied.

'I love you more xxxxxxxxxxxx' the text read. Seema smiled.

'No you don't xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx'

Another beep.

'Yes I do! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx'

'Impossible! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx'

...and so on. Seema almost forgot about her work. 

#

There was a light knock at Seema's tinted glass office door. She looked up to see Carol, a bubbly middle-aged lady who had taken Seema under her wing when she had started at the firm, fresh out of university. Seema always had time for Carol. She was the perfect mentor.

"Looking forward to the team meeting, Seema?" 

"Hi Carol, how are you?" Seema smiled. She knew Carol would want a chat, and she had to admit that a break from the figures would be welcome. "Yeah, should be a zinger!"

"Hmm. No, it'll be pretty boring, as usual," Carol chuckled. "Good weekend?"

Carol closed the door and pulled up a chair in front of Seema's desk. Her smile disappeared as she caught sight of the thin gash on Seema's lip.

"Well, in the end, it was really good. From the ridiculous to the sublime, I guess."

Carol looked on in horror as Seema recounted a highly edited version of Jake's visit, omitting everything after he had barged through the door. She told Carol the door had caught her, cutting her lip, figuring that maybe she could trick herself into forgetting it all. Seema wished she could wipe it all from memory with a click of the fingers. 

"Seema, that's awful. If you need somewhere to bed down for a while, my door will always be open."

"Thanks Carol," Seema smiled appreciatively. "But, it's ok. Someone's...looking after me."

"Good." Carol's smile returned with a hint of mischief. "Simran?"

Seema blushed and flicked at her hair.

"Sorry, Seema. Ignore me. As long as you're ok." Carol patted her arm and stood up. "Tell you what," she peered conspiratorially over her shoulder. "Let me take some of these documents."

She took a large ream of documents from Seema's desk, hiding them within her suit jacket.

"Oh, Carol, you've probably got loads yourself~"

"It's fine chick."

Carol winked and bustled out of Seema's office.

#

Seema had managed to sift through and analyze most of the remainder of her reports, despite the fifty love you's sent to Simran, and the fifty replies sent back with an ever increasing number of x's. Seema's 'phone beeped again. She smiled as she thumbed the screen. Simran's picture and number flashed.

'Hiya my darling! Look up... xxxxxxxxxxxxx'

Seema frowned, put her 'phone down and looked up. There, standing on the opposite side of her glass wall was Simran, a beaming if slightly bashful smile on her face. Stood next to her was Carol, who sported a rather mischievous smile.

Seema jumped up and ran to the door, almost giggling joyously. She threw the door open.

"Hey!" she cried, and then stood still, patting her skirt down and brushing a wisp of hair from her brow, trying her best to appear as calm as possible.

Carol gave a sly wink towards Seema. "I found her downstairs, so I thought I'd bring her straight up."

"Thank you Carol," Simran chuckled. "I'll try not to stay too long."

"You stay as long as you want, Simran." Carol nodded her head at Seema. "I bet she's finshed most of her work, anyway." 

Carol hunched her shoulders, smiled and bustled off down the corridor.

"Hi, honey," Simran said, shuffling her feet. 

Seema stared, her smile wide. "Oh, sorry...standing here and staring. Come in, come in." Seema spoke a little louder than she would normally, mainly for the benefit of her work colleagues milling around at the end of the corridor, who hastily turned away as Seema looked towards them.

Simran smirked and chuckled under her breath. Seema quickly shut the door.

"Oh Sim, this is great!"

"I know, right. I couldn't stand just texting you. Took a bit of time out and came round. Is it ok?"

"Sim, it's fab! It's almost lunch time, anyway." Seema gushed. She peered through wall of her office. "These bloody glass walls...I want to kiss you."

"Can't you move down to the basement?"

Seema laughed. A basement office would be ideal, she thought. She checked again through the glass wall, and grasped Simran's hands. Simran giggled as she was pulled around to the seat next to Seema's. Behind the desk, they were able to at least hold hands. 

"How's my babe?" Seema asked.

"Better for seeing you, gorgeous. How's your morning been? Do you mind if I eat?" Simran pulled her sandwich box from her shoulder bag.

"No, go for it. My morning's been fine. I've had lots of texts from my lover, so I've been quite happy."

"Ooo," Simran chuckled, biting into her salad wrap. "Who's that then?"

"This gorgeous, sexy, lovely, lovely, beautiful, wonderful girl I know."

Simran chuckled and blushed. "Funny, because I had the same thing, and she's a beautiful~"

There was a light knock and the door opened. Simran hastily let go of Seema's hand and they both made sure their hands were in plain view above the desk.

"Two orange juices, girls." Carol put two full glasses of juice on the desk. She glanced at Seema. "Usual sandwich, chick. Here we go."

"Thanks, Carol. And thanks for taking some of that paperwork."

Carol waved her hand. "No problem." She smiled at Simran. Her gaze lingered on Seema. She winked, and made her way out.

"Does Carol have an inkling?" Simran asked as the door clicked shut. She grasped Seema's hand, pulling it down to her lap.

"She shouldn't have." Seema smiled and waved at Carol as she bustled along the corridor outside Seema's office.

"Hmm, she seems to have a natural ability to get information out of you," Simran giggled.

"Ah, I guess you had a chat on the way up then," Seema chuckled and shook her head. She peeled the thin plastic cover off the packaging of her sandwich. "Did you let something slip?"

"Mmm. I think I might have. Did she used to work for the CIA or something, because she's good."

"I think she may have! She's lovely though, a real gem."

"Oh yeah, she is. She reckons I look familiar."

"What, like a sexy RnB diva?" 

"No!" Siman giggled. "She thinks I have some resemblance to some guy she knows. Something like that, anyway."

"Oh. She's never mentioned it before. For the record, you do look like a sexy RnB diva."

"What, even in a drab nurse's uniform?"

"Oh yes!"

They ate and talked whilst holding hands out of sight behind Seema's desk. Simran described her morning at work, which as usual sounded completely hectic. Seema had always been in awe of Simran as her job demanded such patience and a huge amount of compassion. She remembered the times Simran had comforted her during her break-up and marvelled at how she had stayed so patient after a day at work. 

"Oh, and my uncle Mo' tried to ring me about a million times. I couldn't face it, so I ignored it."

"Hmm. What do you think he wants? He did say it was urgent."

"No idea," Simran answered, draining the last of the juice from her glass. "I'll ring him later, I guess."

"It's not about us, is it?"

"No," Simran shook her head. "I've not told any of my family yet. Nothing against them, but I don't really care if they're not happy about it. Especially my uncle. They'll have to accept that you're the one I love."

Simran finished her lunch. She looked past Seema through the window at the giant clock on the wall of the building opposite and sighed.

"I'd better get back to work."

"Do you have to?"

"Yes, my love. But look, another few hours and we'll be together again," Simran said cheerfully. "I'll wait in the car, ok. And if I'm not there, just wait because a traffic warden might have moved me on."

Seema chuckled. "Ok, I'll see you later then."

They sat awkwardly, glancing through the window wall until they were sure no-one was looking. They kissed briefly before Simran reluctantly stood. 

Before Seema opened the door of her office, she stroked Simran's shoulder. "By the way, you do look tremendously sexy in your uniform."

"Hmm, if you say so," Simran chuckled, and lowered her voice. "When we get home, I want to undress you, slowly, and make you lose yourself again."

Seema visibly quivered. "That's a deal."

"And keep texting, ok?"

Seema nodded happily. She watched as Simran walked down the corridor, turning to wave three times before disappearing into the waiting elevator.

Seema closed her door and her thoughts immediately turned to an evening of love-making with her beautiful lover. Seema smiled dreamily as she realised Simran had used the word 'home'.

#

As expected, the meeting was indeed a little boring. It didn't help that Seema was longing to be with Simran, and her mind really wasn't anywhere near the conference room. Carol had to nudge her with her knee several times when questions were directed at their department. Seema knew the ropes though, and despite her mind not being on the job, she was able to provide the correct responses; 'yes', 'yes' and 'as soon as possible'.

Seema clock watched the last ten minutes. She didn't want Simran to have to wait outside too long. She was aware that they hadn't exchanged many text messages since lunch. Simran must have had a busy afternoon, she figured.

Mercifully, the meeting ended earlier than expected. Seema jumped up as soon as the eloquent and distinguished Mr. Bryant himself announced the meeting over. As she and Carol filed out of the meeting room along with all the other department heads and seconds, Carol edged up to her.

"I hope you and Simran are really happy together," she whispered.

Seema felt her face rise in temperature and smiled awkwardly. "Oh, ummm..."

She placed her hand on Carol's arm and pulled her to one side, allowing the stragglers a clear path between them.

"I thought you'd guessed," Seema whispered awkwardly. "Carol, look, this won't affect my job, will it? I know it's wrong, but...please don't tell anyone yet, please."

"Seema, of course it won't affect your job," Carol whispered, sounding a little hurt. "And no, I won't say a word. But, you shouldn't keep it to yourself. You make a lovely couple; you're obviously happy, tell the whole world!"

"Oh Carol, thanks. You're so good to me," Seema whispered. She hugged Carol gratefully.

"I'm really happy that you've found someone. I won't say a word. But don't think you need to keep it quiet. If anyone here has a problem with it, I'll see to them. Ok?"

"Carol, you are the best boss ever."

"Now, get going, go on," Carol giggled, playfully pushing Seema away. "Go on!"

Seema rushed back to her office. She hastily tidied her desk, shut her laptop down and retrieved her jacket from the old bamboo coat stand next to her bookcase. She checked her 'phone. There was a text message from her brother but not from Simran. She frowned and put her 'phone in her pocket without bothering to read her brother's message.

Closing her door behind her, she scurried to the elevator. She pushed the call button, waited impatiently for two seconds before deciding to take the stairs. Her high heels echoed noisily on the staircase as she descended at a breakneck speed. She made it down to the foyer and said a few hurried good-byes to colleagues.

The glass doors silently slid open and she ran out.

Simran's car was nowhere to be seen. Seema caught her breath, checked the time and looked up and down the busy street. The multi-storey car park at the one end was spewing cars at a steady rate whilst at the other end cars streamed down off the fly-over, the majority disappearing to join the ring-road. She kept her attention to the right and the oncoming traffic, trying to spot Simran's little white car. She checked her mobile phone. Simran's last message had been just over two hours ago. 

Seema kept her eyes on the traffic. Her spirits lifted when she saw a little white car in amongst the sleek and shiny businessman cars crawling off the flyover, an ant amongst beetles. As it approached though she could see it wasn't Simran's car. Her mood fell again. As she stood waiting, several of her colleagues called goodbyes. She forced a smile and waved back at them. She checked her mobile again, but there was still no message from Simran.

"Just be patient," she said to herself. "Probably busy at work."

#

Twenty minutes later and Simran still hadn't showed. Seema thumbed her mobile and scrolled through her contacts to Simran's number, pressing call.

She frowned as she heard a lifeless automated voice announcing that Simran's mobile was switched off. She called again only for the same response. She looked around, figuring Simran may be on foot. Had her car broken down? It was on its last legs, after all. Maybe her 'phone had run out of battery. That was plausible, she thought, and would explain the lack of text messages.

She scrolled through her contacts again and cursed when she realised she didn't have Simran's work number. She called directory enquiries.

"Hi, can I have the number for Checkley's Care Centre, please."

She made a mental note of the number read out by yet another lifeless automated reader, hung up and immediately dialled the number. The ring-tone bleeped in her ear for a long time. She started to worry that no-one was there. Then, a brusque authoritarian female voice answered.

'Hello, Checkley's.'

"Oh, hi, umm, I wonder if I could speak to Simran, please. She works in the special unit."

'Ok, let me see if I can find her. Putting you on hold.'

An annoying rendition of a K T Tunstall song, which in Seema's opinion was already an awful song, blared painfully into Seema's ear. She jerked the 'phone away from her ear and tapped her feet impatiently whilst keeping an eye on the traffic. Her feet ached from wearing high heels for a day and she desperately wanted to get out of her twin set suit. She wanted Simran to remove it, more specifically. She was starting to worry. What if there had been an accident? Why was her 'phone off? The potentially deafening canned music from her 'phone ceased. She jammed it back to her ear.

'Hello?'

"Yeah, hi," Seema was hoping she'd hear Simran's voice, but it was the same curt voice that had answered originally.

'Who's calling?'

Seema frowned, a chill washing over her body. "Um, my name is Seema. What's up, is there something wrong?"

'Well, no. It seems she left work a couple of hours ago. But she's not been back.'

"Oh," Seema frowned. "Did she say where she was going?"

'It seems not.' The lady on the 'phone seemed more than a little piqued.

"Right, um, ok. Thanks anyway."

Another anxious half hour passed by. Seema had tried Simran's mobile countless times, but each time was the same. She felt at a loss. She couldn't decide whether to call the police or whether to get back home and wait. She thought of getting herself to Simran's flat, but it was miles away across the other side of town. 




Seema's Journey Ch. 04



Seema had only managed two hours sleep. Even that had been fitful. Her feet felt well and truly battered and bruised. She had run all the way from Barney's back to her apartment, a full five miles. At some point, she had taken her high heeled shoes off to run barefoot, save for her stockings, and by the time she had reached home her stockings had shredded, leaving the raw soles of her feet bare.

She got up at 5am, tired and drained, but unable to sleep. She wandered around her apartment, speaking in tongues as she tried to make sense of the situation. In frustration she changed tack, sick of going round in circles as her sleep deprived mind mulled everything over; she wiped the kitchen surfaces, twice; she cleaned the bathroom until the ceramic and enamel shone like new; she rearranged cushions on the sofa, rearranged the logs in the basket next to her fireplace. But, nothing could take her mind off the horrid, energy-sapping feeling of rejection resting heavily on the pit of her stomach.

With a start, she realised she was naked.

"I'm going mad," she whispered. She attempted a chuckle. Instead, tears rolled down her cheeks. In a confused daze, she walked to her bedroom to retrieve her robe, but before she had even taken it off the hook on the bedroom door, her gaze fell on Simran's denim shorts lying on the floor. Simran's panties lay next to them.

Seema sobbed as she remembered their love-making from the evening before last. It had been wonderful, sensual, erotic and daring. The rejection weighed even heavier on Seema. She sat naked on the end of her bed and picked up the denim shorts and panties. She closed her eyes as she recalled casting them away before tasting her lover's sex. Memories of Simran, writhing and moaning to the touch of her tongue and fingers, filled Seema's mind. On auto-pilot, Seema brought the panties to her face in the hope that she could imprint Simran's wonderful, light scent on her mind.

In the back of her mind, two little voices spoke. One silky voice suggested that she enjoy her lover one more time. The other, sensible voice said 'Seriously? Now?!' In her disorientated fug, Seema gave in and fell back on the bed, keeping Simran's panties pressed to her face. Her right hand wandered down to her crotch, and as she inhaled the faint aromas, she gently massaged her softness. 

Five minutes later, Seema had worked hard enough to elicit her climax. But it was dry and meaningless, leaving her numb and ungratified. Feeling guilty, she threw the panties away. 

She lay on the bed and cried, feeling frustrated, rejected and dirty. 

#

Her morning bath before work had been painful for two reasons; the soles of her feet were still sore, and Simran was not bathing with her in the fragranced water. She didn't fill the bath to the usual depth, just six or so inches, like flying a flag at half-mast.

She had considered calling Carol to say that she was feeling unwell and wouldn't be coming in to work. But she knew she would have felt guilty all day, so she didn't. Besides which, Carol was so lovely and such a good listener, with often very sound and timely advice to give. Seema decided that she would chat with Carol in the hope that she could make sense of things.

Seema took the bus to work, like she had been doing for months. 

"Back to normal," she said to herself as she stepped on to the bus. She took the only empty seat available, behind a young couple who were happily whispering sweet nothings to each other, playfully nudging, giggling and smooching. Seema had to blink her eyes to stop the tears. It felt like she had just come back from the most enjoyable and relaxing holiday ever, where she met and was romanced by a fantastic looking waiter; or waitress, she thought, letting her shoulders sag as vivid images of Simran in waitress garb filled her mind. And now? Now she was back to her drab normality. 

#

She had cried so much the night before that she was now drained, totally. As soon as Carol had popped her head around Seema's office door, Carol realised something was wrong. Seema knew that she looked dead to the world. She never liked wearing too much make-up and this morning, despite looking like death, she had still only put a little on. Carol told her that she would be back in ten minutes, and they would chat.

Seema had called Simran's home and mobile numbers countless times. In the end, Seema found herself calling the home number just to hear Simran's voice. She had also sent text message after text message, pleading Simran to call her and at least explain. She couldn't understand how Simran had changed her mind so quickly. She thought of Simran's uncle and immediately felt a level of anger that took her by surprise. He must have said something to Simran, Seema thought. He must have twisted her mind. She blinked suddenly as she realised she had snapped the pencil she had been holding.

One thing was confusing her. Simran's uncle had mentioned the inheritance, and that his niece was thinking of it in making her decision. Seema knew that Simran was the least materialistic person she had ever known. Seema frowned.

She dialled the number for Checkley's. Her pulse quickened. Surely Simran would be at work, she loved her job. But, what if she didn't want to speak? It was for this reason that Seema was dreading making this call. The ring tone sounded twice.

'Hello, Checkley's, how can I help?' Seema was thankful that this was an altogether friendlier voice. 

"Oh, hi," Seema said, not able to hide the wobble in her voice. Her heart was beating fast. "Would it be possible to speak to Simran, please? She works in the~"

'Oh, yes, Simran. Well, I'm afraid she's off work, probably for the rest of the week. Is it anything I can help with?'

Seema frowned in surprise. "Umm, oh. It's ok, I'm a friend." She almost felt a bizarre relief at not having to hear Simran tell her that she didn't love her. "Did she 'phone in sick, or say what was wrong?"

'No, it was a gentleman who 'phoned. I took the call, you see. She's not feeling well apparently. There are some bugs going 'round at the moment.'

"Oh right. Ok. Thanks for your help. Bye."

'No problem. Bye.'

Seema replaced the handset and sat back in her chair. She wondered who had called on Simran's behalf. With a sharp snort and rising anger she realised it must have been uncle Mo'. 

Seema suddenly had a strong pang as she thought of the day they had enjoyed together on Sunday. The park, where Simran had long ago realised she had developed feelings for her, then their love making that evening, which had been totally exquisite. They had truly given themselves to each other.

Seema thumbed her mobile, flicked the text icon and scrolled through to Simran's last text message. The pit of her stomach lurched as she read it. It was cold, devoid of any of the cheer that Simran's texts always conveyed. Devoid of kisses, too.

There was a knock at her office door. Seema looked up and smiled.

"Hiya chick," Carol said as she quietly closed the door behind. 

"Hi Carol." 

"Sorry I took so long Seema. I'm here now, and you've got me for as long as you want."

"Thanks Carol. You must think I'm pathetic. Happy one day and glum the next."

"Nonsense, chick. What's up? Jake?"

"No..." Seema pressed the back of her hand to her mouth, but couldn't stop the tears. "Sorry."

"Oh dear, Seema," Carol said. She pulled a chair to sit next to Seema and took her hand. "What's up? I have to say, you looked awful when you came in this morning."

"Two hours sleep," Seema sobbed.

"Oh Seema," Carol patted her hand. "Come on, tell Aunty Carol."

Seema recounted everything in great detail, including the facts she had left out about Jake's visit, which Carol found particularly disturbing. Carol's motherly concern acted as a catalyst for the tears, much to Seema's embarrassment. Attentive as always, Carol kept Seema supplied with fresh tissues.

"Seema, sweetheart, you shouldn't be at work, not after all that. Have the police contacted you since? That Jake needs to be castrated, and no anaesthetic."

"I've got too much to do~"

"Sweetheart, you need to have time off."

Carol passed another tissue to Seema. She frowned and looked away thoughtfully, lightly drumming her fingers on Seema's desk. She turned back to look at Seema with a look of puzzlement.

"I must say, when I brought Simran up here yesterday, we had a chat on the way.... That was a person who was incredibly happy, not one who was in two minds."

"I know right, she seemed happy to me," Seema said, drying her eyes. "But her last text to me said it all. Look."

Seema thumbed her mobile and selected the texts she had exchanged with Simran the day before. She handed it to Carol.

"Sweetheart, I can't read those. They're personal."

"It's ok," Seema managed a smile. "I know you won't laugh. Hopefully."

Carol took the 'phone and glanced at the screen. Seema watched as her eyes flicked down the messages.

"Now look at the last one," Seema said as she reached across to scroll down to the last message Simran had sent.

"Hmm. Very odd." Carol handed the 'phone back. "So, you think her uncle had something to do with her change of heart?"

Seema nodded, frowning at the mention of that man. Carol had turned away again, a thoughtful frown on her face.

"What do you think?" Seema asked.

Carol exhaled slowly. "Well, it's very odd. Simran's not at work, you say? Until next week?"

"Yeah. That's definitely strange. She absolutely loves her job."

"Hmm." Carol looked away, deep in thought. "This uncle of hers....."

Seema waited whilst Carol continued to ponder, wiping her eyes and nose and straightening herself out.

"Right," Carol said suddenly, making Seema jump. "Let me have a think, sweetheart. In the meantime, switch your lappy off, and get yourself home. You need some 'you' time~"

"I've got loads to do though."

"Get yourself home sweetheart," Carol said firmly. "You need to somehow get in contact with Simran and sort this all out. As far as I could tell from talking to her, that was one sure and happy girl. You need to speak to her. Get to her flat, see if she's there. Keep ringing her. She can't have disappeared off the face of the earth!"

"Are you sure?" Seema's eyes welled up.

Carol put her arm around Seema's shoulders. "Of course I am sweetheart. In the meantime, I'll have a think, ok? Now, get going. And ring if you need a chat."

#

Seema took the bus back home, a much quicker journey out of rush hour. She got changed and freshened up. In a way, she was actually dreading going to Simran's, but Carole's suggestion did make sense. Seema didn't want to hear Simran saying that she didn't love her, that on reflection she thought it best that they forget what had happened and remain 'just friends'. Seema cursed Simran's uncle. 

"Bloody Uncle Mo'," Seema whispered between gritted teeth as she stared at her reflection in the bathroom mirror. "What does he know about love?"

Seema had to admit she looked awful. Her eyes were dark and puffy and despite copious use of shampoo and conditioner, her hair looked terrible. Her shoulders sagged. She decided to put a little more makeup on and chose to wear some dark leggings. Simran had said she liked Seema in leggings. Seema smiled at the irony.

"I'm dressing up for a woman," she said as she reapplied some eyeliner. With a frustrated exhalation, she realised no amount of makeup would hide the puffiness around her eyes. A night of sobbing and virtually no sleep had certainly taken its toll.

She put a light blue body hugging jacket on and padded through to her bedroom. She shot a guilty glance at Simran's scrunched up panties, lying on the floor, before pulling the bottom drawer of her wardrobe out and choosing some sports socks to wear with her trainers. Before she shut it, she noticed the photograph. She picked it up and peered at it, a sour taste in her mouth.

Jake, with a smile and happy on their first holiday together. She looked closer. The t-shirt he was wearing in the photograph had a logo and inscription on the left breast. 'Steen's Recruitment'. Jake always wore a t-shirt with his work logo on, though the business name seemed to change as often as he changed his t-shirts.

"Bastard," Seema said. She scrunched the photo up as tears welled and thoughts of Simran flashed through her mind. As she walked through to her lounge she threw the photo into the fireplace. "Good riddance."

"Right, come on then girl," she set her shoulders straight. "Let's go and see what Sim has to say."

As she picked her flat keys up from the little table near the door, she stopped dead. There was another solitary key on a leather fob lying next to the telephone. It was Simran's. Seema frowned. She hadn't realised Simran had left her spare set of keys, though it made sense. Seema wondered how she hadn't seen them before setting off for work that morning.

"At least that gives me a valid excuse to go and see her, rather than it looking desperate."

Seema pocketed Simran's key, locked her apartment door and made the three minute walk to the bus stop she needed.

#

She was able to take her favoured seat on the bus, the last but one pair of seats on the left, by the window. There were far fewer passengers at this time of day compared to 8am. Seema settled in to her seat and watched the city pass by as the bus trundled along its route. She realised that she had never travelled this route before; Simran had always picked Seema up for the gym or if they were going out for a drink.

Seema's stomach knotted. She felt so confused. She needed to know why Simran had a sudden change of heart, but she didn't really want to hear it. She was convinced Simran's uncle Mo' had something to do with it, and as far as Seema was concerned, that was a thread of hope. Just. Maybe she could convince Simran to reconsider with a soft kiss.

Then again, thought Seema, maybe uncle Mo' only had to utter a few words in the end. Maybe Simran did in fact have serious doubts. It would certainly explain why her phone was off all the time. Maybe Simran was avoiding Seema's calls. Seema shook her head; no, that would be so unlike Simran.

Seema pulled her phone from her handbag. She tried Simran's mobile number and sighed morosely when the unobtainable tone beeped in her ear. Her stomach knotted again as she caught sight of the glass fronted flats approaching. She pressed the bell and started walking down the aisle as the bus came to a halt outside Diedrick Place.

"Now or never," Seema muttered as she stepped down on to the pavement.

#

She nervously fingered the key and leather fob in her pocket as she walked towards the oldest of the four blocks. Last time, she had some luck as she nipped passed the automatic doors after another resident had keyed in the code to open the doors. Now it was quiet with no one around. She stood a few metres away from plate glass doors, anxiously shuffling her feet. She had completely forgotten about the coded doors, and now she didn't know what to do.

"Just ring the bell, idiot," she said to herself. She strode forward and pressed the buzzer for Simran's apartment. She bunched her hands into fists, trying to stop the trembling, and took a deep breath. After the third press of the buzzer, Seema gave up. 

"Dammit Sim, where are you?" she whispered. She resigned herself to failure and started to back away.

"Can I 'elp you at all?"

Seema whirled around to see a short, friendly looking man in a blue security guard uniform walking towards her at a leisurely pace. His black boots were polished to a shine and his shirt and trousers had been meticulously ironed, with all the perfectly straight creases in exactly the right places. His straight back and proud shoulders hinted at a military background, though his moderate girth suggested quite a few years' worth of home comforts and good cooking.

"Oh, umm, well I need to drop this key off for a friend, but she didn't tell me that the doors were coded." Seema pulled the key and fob from her pocket.

"Ok love. Which flat is it? I can drop it off for you~"

Just then, his radio blared something unintelligible. He deftly pulled his radio from his belt. As he answered in what must have been some sort of strange security guard language, he took the key from Seema and turned it around in his hand, studying it like a jeweller would a diamond.

"Right love," he said replacing the walkie talkie in its holster. "I've got a problem to attend to. I'll let you in and you take it. You don't look like the kind of person that would ransack the place." He grinned and winked.

Seema nodded in relief with an involuntary demure laugh. She took the key and followed the guard back to the plate glass doors, struggling to keep up with the surprising pace; he only had short legs. He keyed the code in making sure that Seema couldn't see, and stepped aside graciously.

"There y' go Miss."

"Thank you," Seema answered. She didn't know whether to give him a tip or not, but before she could say anything, he was striding off purposefully with his walkie talky blaring from his belt.

Seema walked slowly up the stairs, her light footsteps echoing around the whitewashed concrete. She hadn't rehearsed anything to say, she realised, but what she did have to say was simple; I love you, Sim, it's as simple as that. And I thought you loved me too. Seema paused behind the double doors opening on to Simran's corridor. She laughed at herself.

"Why are you so nervous, girl?" she whispered as she stared at the floor. "She's not even in. What do you actually expect to achieve here?"

What bothered Seema was the nagging feeling that Simran may have holed herself up in her flat, ignoring her buzzer. Seema steeled herself and pushed through the doors to walk briskly to Simran's door. She stood still, took a deep breath and knocked. Like the evening before, Seema's knock was met with silence.

"Sim? Are you there?" her voiced wobbled. She swallowed hard and knocked again. "Sim? Please Sim, I need to know what's going on. Sim?"

She leant down and peeked through the keyhole. Simran's front room was dark. Seema figured that the curtains had been drawn, so someone had obviously been there after Seema's visit the evening before. 

"Sim? Sim, please let me in, please. Don't just shut me out, that's not fair." Seema's breath caught in her throat. She imagined Simran lying on the bed willing her to just go away. "Sim?"

Seema took Simran's key from her pocket. She gazed at it and then at the keyhole. She so desperately wanted an answer, or some sort of explanation from Simran. Her desperation got the better of her, and slowly she inserted the key into the lock, and turned it.

#

Seema pushed the door gently, its hinges squeaking in the silence. To her left, through the gap as the door opened, Seema could see the kitchen, its brightly coloured tiles giving it a high contrast effect in the gloom. She stopped to listen.

"Sim?" she called. There was silence. She glanced warily over her shoulder before pushing the door open far enough to pop her head in. One half of the apartment was dimly lit by the light through the thin yellow curtains. The apartment was as she remembered. At least she hasn't started moving out, thought Seema.

"Sim?" Seema crept in and shut the door quietly behind her. She dithered before deciding to lock it. The soft fragrances of Simran's favourite oils from the earthenware burners hung in the air, not fresh but from fairly recently, Seema guessed. "Sim?"

Feeling like an intruder, Seema crept over to the door of Simran's bedroom. It was open and she could see the bed was empty. Seema stepped in and peered around the cosy little room. The bed was made, though the linen hadn't been changed since their visit before going to the park. Seema felt a pang at the memory of that lovely day. Tears stung her eyes as she sat on Simran's single bed. 




Seema's Journey Ch. 04



"Where are you?" Seema whispered. She looked around the small room. Everything was as it should be, nothing had been hastily removed, and no drawers left hanging open after a rushed pack. The doors to the little walk in wardrobe were shut. Seema stood up and stepped over to it, opening the slatted doors to look inside. Nothing seemed amiss. She noticed a few dresses that she could imagine Simran looking incredibly sexy in, one in particular, a blue knee-length shoulder less dress, felt so soft to the touch. Seema sighed morosely, fighting the tears, and sat back down heavily on the bed.

She spotted a pretty linen covered book on Simran's bedside table and picked it up. After flicking through a few pages, she realised it was Simran's diary. Seema closed it quickly and placed it back on the table. She resisted the temptation to read it; for a while.

As her tear-blurred gaze kept lingering on the linen covered book, Seema realised that Simran's diary may contain some clues that could answer Seema's questions. Seema pushed the guilt to the back of her mind and picked the book up, turning to the last page. It was blank, as were the preceding ten. She found Simran's last entry.

'Work hard today. But Seeing Seem tonight. Yay! Shall I tell her? Game of squash and then swim. Got to get ready!'

The entry was dated the Friday before, just a few days ago. Seema turned to the previous page which had three short entries for three days. Seema sobbed and laughed as she read them.

'Tuesday - Counting down the days to Friday. I've written 3 letters to Seem. I've scrunched all of them up. I feel stupid. Keep thinking that maybe Seem feels the same way about me, but not sure. Help!'

'Wednesday - Sent a few texts to Seem. With kisses. And Seem sent kisses back!!!!!!!! Work was good today. May be getting a raise soon! Want to buy Seem something. Also want to suggest that we go out for a meal after gym. Would she think I'm weird?'

'Thursday - Work weird today. Lots of people off either sick or off on courses. Am def getting a raise! YES! Maybe sort my car out. Really want to tell Seem that I love her. I'm upset. What if she tells me to bugger off? Can't sleep. It's 3am. I love you Seem.' There was a small blur on the last word of the entry, as if a droplet of moisture had fallen to the page causing the ink to run.

Seema held the diary to her chest. She tried to figure what this all meant. Surely, she thought, Simran's feelings couldn't have changed so rapidly? Seema flicked through more pages from Simran's diary, choosing pages at random. On every page she chose, even the first page dated over two months ago, there were the words 'Seem' and 'love'. Seema looked at the last entry on the second page. Her eyes opened wide as she read.

'Saturday - This is embarrassing. Spent the night at Seem's last night. She's still upset about breakup with Jake. Gave her lots of hugs.... We had our gym and swim (wow she looks fab in a swimsuit) and then a take-out and a film. Seem wearing leggings. Yummy! Couldn't keep my eyes off her. Now it's Saturday eve. I've just done something naughty whilst thinking of Seem. I think I'll sleep well tonight!!!! Forget that bastard Kirran! I wish Seem would forget Jake.'

Seema closed her eyes, filling her mind with the memories of Simran's wet sex against her lips and tongue. Her eyes fell back to the diary. She flicked through more pages as she laid her head on Simran's pillow, drawing her legs up on to the bed. So many entries alluded to Simran's love for her. Seema considered looking for earlier diaries, but she suddenly felt guilty. She snapped the diary shut and placed it back on the bedside table, only to pick it up again. Seema felt so much happier now she had read some of the entries. Surely, thought Seema, this means she still loves me.

She found more incredibly candid entries pertaining to self-pleasuring. Seema couldn't stop herself from reading despite the guilt; she was mesmerized, and she was beginning to find Simran's entries extremely erotic. Having read all about Simran's feelings, Seema had felt a huge amount of relief wash over her. After all, a diary is a window to the soul, Seema thought; everything I needed to know is right here.

"I love you too Sim," Seema whispered, aware that she had become moist and slippery down below. She closed her eyes and yearned to feel Simran next her. 

She nuzzled into the pillow and frowned as she considered the situation. She couldn't believe that Simran had had second thoughts. Like Seema's feelings, Simran's had developed over time, and that had to mean something. Seema's thoughts turned to Simran's uncle Mo'.

"There's the problem," Seema whispered to herself, instantly forgetting the wetness between her legs. But, where the heck was Simran? At her parents?

Seema thought quickly. She jumped off the bed and walked through to the lounge. She hoped there would be a book of numbers and addresses next to Simran's old fashioned telephone. She tutted when she found that there wasn't. She stalked about until with a silent jump for joy she found, on the polished wood of the kitchen island, a leather bound notebook with 'Telephone numbers and Addresses' written in gold-leaf on its cover. 

She grabbed it and opened it. On the inside cover, written large were Seema's landline and mobile numbers, a little heart drawn next to them. Seema staved the tears and flicked through until she came upon a number underneath an entry - 'Mum and Dad'. Seema's heart started beating hard. She picked up Simran's telephone and started to dial. "Uh uh," she murmured, shaking her head. She cut the line and redialled, this time using the number withheld prefix. 

'Hello?' A heavily accented voice answered. Seema immediately recognised it as Simran's mother's voice.

"Hi, I wonder if I could speak to Simran, please?" 

'Oh...' There was a pause and some whispering in the background. 'Yes, hello, she's not here.'

"Do you know where~"

'She's not here, goodbye.' Click.

Seema stared at the receiver, a mixture of anger and surprise. She put the receiver down. 

"What the hell is going on?" Seema whispered. She was becoming increasingly suspicious, and frustrated. She flicked a glance at the answering machine next to the telephone, but the red led readout shone a depressing zero. Her frustration became more pronounced as she realised that she really didn't know what to do next.

She thought of staying in Simran's flat for the night, but wondered what good that would do. Simran's bed had not been slept in and Seema couldn't imagine she would be back tonight. 

"Wait a bloody minute," she said, twirling back around towards the answer machine. She dashed forwards and pressed the play button.

'No new messages'.

"I must've left loads of messages...." Seema whispered. She looked in her pockets for her mobile, finding Simran's key first. She threw down the key next to the answering machine before retrieving her mobile. She thumbed through her call logs from the day Simran failed to show up after work. She counted twenty calls made on the Monday and another seven from that morning. "See! I'm not imagining it! Someone's been here. Oh, bloody hell Sim, what's going on?"

From out in the corridor beyond Simran's door, Seema heard the double doors being pushed open. She dashed to the door and peered through the keyhole, hoping it may be Simran, then worrying that it could be the security guard. It certainly wasn't Simran or the guard, but she couldn't see who it was. With a sharp intake of breath, Seema realised that they were approaching Simran's door.

Panic took hold of Seema and she dashed through on tip toe to the bedroom. She lingered by the door and listened. With a jolt she heard a key being inserted and turned. Her face flushed with panic and on auto-pilot she dived toward Simran's built in wardrobe, relieved there was enough space for her to hide and close the loose slatted door, just as the door to the apartment closed. Seema tensed and forced herself to breathe slowly as she heard the key being turned to lock the apartment door. 

Footsteps sounded on the laminate floor, a tap was turned on, and then there was silence. Seema heard the light switch being flicked and the answer machine announcing no new messages. She slowly and quietly moved Simran's pretty blue dress to one side, allowing her a view of the bed through the loose slats of the louvre doors on the wardrobe.

The footsteps sounded again, this time coming towards the bedroom. Seema held her breath and suddenly realised how tiring it was to keep dead still. The light switch was flicked and the bedroom was filled with bright light from the ceiling. The visitor strode in to the bedroom and sat on the bed. 

Seema stifled a whimper and held her breath. It was Simran's uncle Mo'. As she kept as still as possible, he dragged a wicker basket from the other side of the bedside table until it was in front of him. He threw open the wicker lid and sighed appreciatively as he peered inside the basket. With his eyes closed and a dirty grin splitting his mouth, he dipped his hand in to rummage around. He slowly pulled his hand out. Hanging off the end of his fingers were two pairs of lacy panties. He held them to his nose and inhaled, groaning in pleasure.

He stood up and undid his belt. Seema began to feel nauseous as she realised what he was about to do. His blue pin-striped suit trousers fell around his ankles. He kicked his shoes off and took off his underpants, exposing his gnarled erection. He took one pair of knickers and examined them, stretching the gusset and holding it to the light. He pressed it to his nose, and laughed softly.

"Mmm, smelly girl, hmm?"

He examined the other pair before stretching it over his erect penis. He flopped down on the bed, pressing Simran's gusset to his nose as he began furiously masturbating with the other pair of knickers still stretched over his penis. Seema retched silently as she watched, panic stricken. He bucked and grunted as he sniffed Simran's gusset before dipping it into his mouth and noisily sucking. 

Seema turned away and closed her eyes, disgusted, scared and all too aware of the irony. To the background sounds of his groans and grunts, Seema once again tried to make sense of the situation. She had no doubt that Mo' had everything to do with Simran's disappearance. The fact that Simran's mother had cut the phone call short meant that she was in on it too. Or did it? What was going on? Why was Simran's uncle here, using her underwear for perverted self-gratification?

Seema grimaced and scrunched her eyes shut as Mo' issued a loud groan. Seema peered reluctantly through the slats. He lay still on the bed, his stomach rising and falling as he calmed from his climax. His penis was obscured by Simran's panties laying limply over it. His face too was covered by the other pair still partially in his mouth. His breathing calmed and slowed until a minute later, when he started snoring.

#

Seema's back and thighs had a burning ache and she had long lost the feeling in her left buttock. She had stood stock still at an awkward angle for what seemed like a very long time. She dared not move. Simran's uncle had steadily snored for the duration but she didn't feel confident of making a quiet escape.

He jolted from his après cum snooze and sat bolt upright. He casually threw Simran's knickers back in the wicker basket and stood upright, yawning as he kicked the basket back against the wall. He padded out of the bedroom as he loosened his tie and undid his top button on his shirt. Seema heard a door being opened, and then the shower hissing and splashing into life.

She shifted her position inside Simran's wardrobe, grimacing as numbness turned to painful pins and needles. She curled and uncurled her toes and rubbed her left buttock, trying to coax the feeling back. Simran's uncle started to sing a tuneless ditty in the shower.

Seema saw her chance. She opened the door of the wardrobe and crept out. She was about to step over his trousers and underpants lying in a pile on the floor when she spotted something poking out from one of the trouser pockets. It was purple in colour and had smooth rounded edges that seemed familiar. She crouched to look closer, before quickly pulling it out. 

It was Simran's mobile 'phone. Seema nearly fell backwards as she was gripped with shock and buffeted with sudden realisation. She pressed the small power button but the low battery symbol flashed twice before the screen blacked out again. She quickly rifled through the other pockets but could only find a handkerchief. She grimaced and jerked her hand away as if she had touched something laced with disease. 

She peered out through the bedroom door. Draped over the back of a bean chair was his suit jacket. Seema had an urge to rifle through the pockets, but she was too scared. She needed to get out quickly. She was about to scurry to the apartment door and to her freedom when she heard the shower shutting off and the strangled squeak of the cubicle door as it was pushed open. 

"Shit," she whispered. She realised she wouldn't have time to make it through a locked door without being seen or heard. She slipped Simran's mobile back in the trouser pocket, turned and hastily hid herself again in Simran's wardrobe, hoping that Mo' didn't intend to stay long.

Uncle Mo' padded out from the bathroom. His wet footsteps were heading for the bedroom until Seema heard the ringtone of a mobile. Seema listened intently as he answered the call.

"Yes, hello....what.......well, what good will it do her......you think it was this Seema girl who rang~"

Seema froze. 

"~well so what, you know...........I don't care if Simran is upset......no.......no.....it is not right........it is just a phase she is going through.........I don't care if she is upset, this is for her own good, is it not?.....yes.......you have to be strong.............."

Simran's uncle moved away from the bedroom and frustratingly out of earshot. Seema could not quite make out the rest of the conversation. She thought things through. She figured that it was Simran's mother or father who had phoned Mo'. They were in on it, thought Seema, whatever 'it' was. And, by the sound of it, Simran was still in love with Seema. Despite everything, Seema managed a smile at the thought of her girl still loving her. Though, Seema's smile faded at the thought of her girl being upset.

Seema was brought out of her reverie at the sound of Mo' returning to the bedroom. He was naked and Seema couldn't help but stare at his limp member and low slung, wrinkled double slingshot sack. She swallowed hard on her nausea and turned away. 

Simran's uncle dressed quickly in his blue pin stripe suit trousers and white shirt. He flicked the light off and walked towards the apartment door. Seema heard a puzzled retort, a pause and then the lounge light being flicked off. The apartment door was unlocked, opened, closed and locked again. 

From within the soft and deadened silence of Simran's wardrobe, Seema heard the faint sound of footsteps moving away and then the double doors opening and closing in the corridor outside the flat. Seema decided to wait.

Satisfied that she was on her own again, she quietly crept out of the wardrobe and into the bedroom. She peeped cautiously around the bedroom door. She closed her eyes and exhaled slowly in relief. As her pulse slowed, she thought things through. The only conclusion that she could come to was that Simran was under lock and key somewhere. For a moment, Seema thought it ridiculous, but it was the only theory that made sense. She felt a gut wrenching pang for Simran.

"Oh Sim, my babe, I will find you, despite what your perv uncle is trying to do." Seema shot a glance towards the bed and the wicker basket. "The dirty bastard."

She crept towards the front door and the table with the telephone and answering machine on it. She tensed suddenly, stopping dead in her tracks.

"Oh...shit." She stared at the spot where she had put Simran's spare key. It had disappeared. She searched desperately, rummaging through the shallow drawer of the table, looking behind the telephone, crouching down to search under the table and blindly run her fingers along the skirting. Simran's uncle must have seen it, and taken it. It had gone, and as she tried the door, she realised she was locked in.

#

"Stupid dummy!" Seema cursed dejectedly as she slumped into a bean chair. She growled in frustration as she massaged her brow. "Now what do I do?"

She remained in the comfy chair for a good ten minutes, feeling totally helpless and wishing that she had made good her escape when she had had the chance. Then again, she realised, she wouldn't have found Simran's mobile phone in Mo's trouser pocket, or overheard his conversation with Simran's mother.

Simran's dirty old uncle must have sent the text asking Seema to meet at Barney's. He must have taken the 'phone off Simran yesterday afternoon and kept it. Bastard, thought Seema. That, she figured, explained why none of her text messages were answered, and why the 'phone had been switched off. 

In addition to this, he had obviously developed a sick fascination for his niece. Seema grimaced; the image of him lying on her bed, masturbating and sniffing Simran's underwear would unfortunately be difficult to wipe from memory. Is he doing this because he wants her? How long has he had this fascination? Seema felt nauseous again.

From what she gleaned listening to his telephone conversation, Seema felt she could picture Simran, lonely and beside herself with anger and frustration, wanting to be with her love. Seema closed her eyes as they welled up. 

She turned her attention back to her immediate problem. She was locked in. She didn't know how to pick a lock and didn't know anyone who could pick a lock. She walked into the kitchen area and rifled through the drawers, looked in tubs, anywhere where Simran may keep another spare key. She drew a blank. 

She shivered at the thought of having to wait until Simran's uncle returned, waiting for a chance to escape as he enjoyed the dirty underwear from Simran's wicker laundry basket. She checked the time on her mobile. Four o'clock. She glanced again at the screen and noticed the envelope icon. She thumbed it. It was a text from Carol, received twenty minutes before.

Seema had a cold flush as she thanked her stars that she had put her mobile on silent. Dirty Mo' would have heard the beep if she hadn't have. She read the text. Carol was asking how she felt. She sent a hastily typed text back, asking when would be convenient to call and telling Carol that she was in a bit of a predicament.

#

Ten minutes later, Seema's mobile chirped into life. It was Carol. 

'Hiya chick. How are you feeling?'

"Oh Carol, am I glad to hear your voice. Are you ok to talk?"

'Oh yes, fine. I've been doing some digging around,' Carol said conspiratorially.

"Oh," Seema said, pushing her current situation to the back of her mind. She was suddenly interested. 

'Hmm, yeah. I think I know Simran's uncle. I used to work for him, though it was a while back. I've always wondered why Simran looked kind of familiar to me.'

"Really?"

'Yeah. He's the MD at Davies', the recruitment people.'

Seema frowned as her mind whirred. Myriad memories were snaking about seemingly at random, until several began to converge.

"Davies' Recruitment?" Seema repeated.

'Yeah. Simran's uncle~"

"Mo'?" Seema interjected.

'Yeah, that's it. He's a real dodgy type though. Whenever the business got into choppy waters, he used to jump through the loop holes and end up changing the business name.'

"Changed it to Steens?"

'Umm, yes, I think that was one of the~'

The snaking memories suddenly converged accompanied by a bright flash of realisation.




Seema's Journey Ch. 04



"Jake!" Seema yelped, abruptly sitting up straight.

'Shit, is he there, are you ok chick? I'll call the police, ok!' There was rising panic in Carol's voice.

"No, no, no. He works at Davies', Jake does. He used to always wear a Steens Recruitment t-shirt. He obviously knows Mo'. He must have told Simran's uncle about us." Seema's words came out in a torrent as her mind clicked pieces of the puzzle together. "Me and Simran went out for the day on the Sunday, and I could have sworn blind that I saw a car that looked like one of Jake's. Following us, you know. And, and Jake had spied, he'd seen Sim leaving my flat. Fucking bastards, they~"

'Sweetheart,' Carol's voice was steady. 'Why would Simran's uncle go to these lengths?'

Seema recounted everything, talking at speed. Carol had to ask her to slow down. Seema felt elated at working everything out. There could be no doubt now that Simran still loved her; no doubt that Simran's perverted uncle was going out of his way to split them up. And Jake, that bastard, had started it all off. 

'Eww! That is disgusting,' Carol cried after Seema described Mo''s panty fetish. 'It's his niece! What a pervert. Seema chick, you must have been scared witless.'

"I know right, plus," Seema cleared her throat, and paused. She felt her face flush. "I'm now locked in Simran's flat. Like an idiot, I left the key lying about and he must have seen it and taken it."

'Oh dear.' Carol was silent.

Seema anxiously chewed her bottom lip. "What do I do?"

'Shit, sweetheart. Umm...let me have a think, ok? What's the address and flat number?'

#

The sun was low in the sky and the light was beginning to dim. Seema didn't dare put any lights on for fear of rousing any suspicion. She imagined Simran's uncle somehow being aware of the slightest change occurring within the flat, an omnipotent pervert sat at his desk spying on his niece through spy cams placed about the apartment. 

Carol had called several times, genuinely worried about Seema. The only thing Carol could suggest was calling the security guard, but Seema worried that she would get into trouble.

'Sweetheart,' Carol had chuckled. 'You're already in a bit of a pickle. Just be careful, ok? I'll keep thinking.'

For the last hour she had been ravenously hungry, but there was nothing to eat save a few tins of beans. Again, she didn't dare eat. What if he came by when she was half way through a tin? Besides which, baked beans made her want to vomit.

Seema paced about, then sat before pacing about some more. She peeked through a gap in the curtains. Simran's apartment was on the opposite side to the buildings entrance. She had never realised that before, not having any reason to check the orientation. The only way she would know of anyone approaching would be the double doors squeaking as they were pushed open, unless she kneeled at the door and kept a watchful eye through the keyhole.

A chill washed over her as she thought that maybe Mo' wouldn't come back that evening. After all, how many times could an old man cum in one day, Seema thought.

"Shit...come on Carol, think of something, please..."

Seema thought of Simran for the thousandth time. She had no idea where Simran was. She could be at her parents, but could they really keep her under lock and key, Seema wondered. Surely not. Simran would kick up a proper fuss. So, where was she? Was she safe? 

A loud and familiar tone suddenly broke the silence of the apartment. Seema jumped, spinning around to where the sound was emanating. On one of Simran's tall chairs at the kitchen work surface cum island, a luminous and diffuse light flashed on and off in time with the shrill tone. It was a mobile phone. 

Seema rushed over and picked up the large screened and very expensive looking device. The word 'Office' flashed up. It abruptly fell silent and the screen went black. Seema wandered over to the window and pulled the curtain to one side, allowing the dim light from outside to cast onto the mobile phone. She peered along its edges and found the power button.

The screen came to life and displayed a QWERTY keyboard, a little cursor flashing in a box ready for a password. Seema realised it must be Mo''s mobile. He had left it here and she figured he had just phoned the number to try and locate it.

"Fair assumption," Seema muttered to herself. She stared at the screen. Curiosity got the better of her, and she hazarded a guess at the password. With a growing chill she typed 's', then 'i', 'm', 'r', 'a' then 'n'. She felt a slight relief when the screen flashed 'Wrong pin - try again'. She retyped, this time with a capital 'S'. The phone beeped and came fully to life. 

"Oh my gosh," whispered Seema as the colour drained from her cheeks. She swallowed hard.

For a moment she just stared. The homescreen wallpaper was a picture of Simran in a bikini, Seema guessed on holiday somewhere judging by the clear turquoise sky, blue sea and golden sand in the pictures background. Simran had a half smile on her face and her hair was slicked back after a swim, Seema figured. Seema swallowed hard at the lump in her throat.

She thumbed the apps icon, scrolled to the gallery icon and tapped it with a trembling finger. The icon flourished into a camera roll styled picture gallery. With a growing sense of shock, Seema scrolled through all the images, all of them pictures of Simran, most of them obviously taken without her knowledge, Seema surmised. Some were taken from a hidden vantage point, the backgrounds unfamiliar to Seema. In some, Simran was semi-naked with her back turned to the camera, in the middle of getting dressed by the looks of it.

"Oh shit," Seema whispered, bringing her hand up to her mouth. She stood frozen to the spot as she tried to comprehend what she was seeing. She suddenly felt completely out of her depth. She tapped the screen, holding her finger down until a submenu appeared. She selected all the images, the thumbnails taking on a blue hue, and then tapped 'delete'. "Dirty fucking bastard."

She was about to throw the sleek mobile onto the floor, wanting to see it smash to little pieces, when she realised Mo' would eventually put two and two together and figure he had left it here. That could be her chance to get out.

Seema was still eager for more conclusive evidence. She tapped the messaging icon. She didn't have to scroll through in search of evidence. At the top of the list of text conversations was one with the word 'Jake Stevens' as its title. Seema tapped her finger on the screen, opening up the conversation.

It was all there, immediately confirming Seema's suspicions. Jake had indeed seen Seema and Simran kissing outside Seema's apartment, and he had followed them to the park. He had sent messages to Mo' telling him of this, knowing that he was Simran's uncle. Seema got the distinct impression that Jake was playing Mo'.

"You're both bastards," Seema said bitterly. She felt deeply hurt at some of the words used to describe her and Simran in the texts, but she kept reading. She sat down on a beanchair, closing that particular conversation. She flicked through more text messages exchanged with people and numbers she didn't recognise. It all seemed related to various business dealings. She sat back in the chair and closed her eyes. She felt like sleeping, but knew she needed to remain vigilant.

Twenty minutes later, her own loud and throaty snore woke her up with a start. She sat bolt upright and looked all around, cursing, suddenly worried that Mo' was stood behind her, sneering at her with his trousers around his ankles. She was still on her own though. She rubbed her eyes and cradled Mo''s 'phone in her hand. She opened up the conversation with Jake.

The double-doors at the end of the corridor outside the apartment squeaked, just as Seema read through the last message Mo' had sent to Jake. Seema jumped. She dashed through to the bathroom and threw the phone down near the shower. She closed the bathroom door behind her as she hurried on tiptoe towards the small coatrack near the apartment door. She pressed herself against the wall and drew the coats around her just as the key turned in the lock.

The door opened quickly, and then shut. Seema peeked through the thin coats on the rack just as the lights were flicked on. It was indeed Simran's uncle. Her pulse was racing so fast that she worried Mo' would hear the strong thub-thump of her heart. He picked up the receiver of Simran's telephone and dialled a number. After a few seconds of silence, the shrill ringtone of the Mo''s mobile sounded from within the bathroom. Simran's uncle grunted and slammed the receiver back down. He paced over towards the bathroom door, swung it open and went inside.

This was Seema's chance. In her plan, she figured on a slow creep towards the door. But with her adrenalin pumping, she dashed around the coats, grasped the door handle, opened the door and ran towards the double doors and freedom, not caring about any noises she made.

She stole a hasty glance back before exploding through the double doors. There was no sign that she had been seen. She ran full speed down the stairs, gripping the banister as she took two steps at a time until she reached the lobby. She punched the big green button on the wall next to the automatic doors, and ran out into the cool air.

As she sprinted towards the nearest bus stop, she felt a giddy elation at her daring escape, and at the realisation that she now knew where Simran was being 'kept'. She thanked that dirty, perverted bastard of an uncle for leaving his mobile phone there. All the information she needed was in the last message exchanged between Mo' and Jake. 

#

It took an hour for Seema to get back home. On the way back, sat in the backseat of the bus, she called Carol and excitedly recounted her adventure. 

'Wow chick, proper little detective!' Carol had chuckled. 'You're safe now?'

"Yeah, fine thanks. Umm, Carol~"

'Yes sweetheart, take tomorrow off, and the next if you need it. But please take care, ok?'

"Thanks Carol, and will do."

'Let me know how things go.'

"I will. Thanks Carol, you're the best. I owe you big-time. Bye."

'Bye chick.'

Seema was indebted to Carol. Knowing that she had a couple of days free, she could now think clearly. She knew where she needed to go, an hours train journey, she guessed; easy. Her GPS will take her to the house. But what then? Storm the place Rambo style? Seema chuckled. No.

As she approached her apartment, she had the urge to creep quietly like a burglar approaching their intended bounty. She unlocked her door and shut it quickly, flicking the light switch and looking about. It was empty, and she was safe. She turned the key and bolted the deadlock, and went straight for the kitchen.

Three slices of buttered wholegrain toast later, her hunger was sated. She turned the taps full on in her bath, looking forward to a long soak and a chance to formulate some sort of plan for getting Simran back. As she kicked her shoes off onto the low shelf of her coat rack, she noticed the red led flashing on her answer machine. Pre-occupied with making plans, she almost left it until after her bath. She dallied and then pressed the play button. 

'Ten new messages'. Seema raised an eyebrow. 'Message one'.

A voice jumped out from the little speaker, a desperate torrent of words punctuated by wracking sobs. It was Simran.

#

'Seem, it's me Sim, Seem are you there? Seem! Whatever's been said to you, it's not true, please Seem~'

Simran couldn't control her voice; her sobs exploded from the little speaker. Seema pressed her hand to her mouth and knelt down to cradle the answer machine in her hands.

'~you've got to believe me...I'm sorry I didn't pick you up from work, I'm sorry, my uncle tricked me...Seem, I love you, please believe me...I love you, I want you...look, don't do a call back on this number...Seem, are you there?...'

Simran broke down and could only repeatedly whimper Seema's name. Then the line clicked as Simran put the 'phone down. The answer machine beeped. 'Message two'. Seema wiped her eyes and unceremoniously drew her sleeve across her nose.

'Seem, Seem...please pick up...' Simran sniffed and sobbed. 'Seem, please...I love you...don't believe anything else, please, Seem, pick up...'

There was a long pause. Simran wailed faintly.

'Seem, please...pick...up...I can't remember your mobile number...I haven't got my mobile...'

There was a click, and the machine beeped. 'Message three'.

'Seem, please, I love you...pick up babe please...' Beep. 'Message four.' 'Seem.......please...' 'Message five'. 'Seema, I love...please pick up'.

Seema cried through the rest of Simran's distraught messages, resting her head on the answer machine. Seema just wanted to call the number back and to hell with the consequences. But Simran had sounded adamant about not calling back.

"Sim," she sobbed to the silent machine. "I'm here, call now..."

#

Seema took the cordless 'phone with her into the bathroom. She stripped off, leaving her clothes in a pile on the floor, and stepped gratefully into the hot water. She glanced at the phone willing Simran to call.

Seema felt numb. Hearing Simran so desperately distraught had deeply disturbed her, especially as there was nothing she could do right the way. Seema wondered about making the train journey that very evening, but Simran may try to call again. If only there was a way she could let Simran know what her plan was. Not that she really had one, yet.

By the time Seema had bathed and dressed in her baggy night t-shirt, Simran still hadn't called. Seema checked her cordless phone for battery, suddenly worrying that it had drained completely, but it was fine. She filled a glass with water, switched the kitchen and lounge lights off and padded through to her bedroom, glass of water in one hand, phone in the other. 

Simran's denim shorts and panties were still on the bedroom floor. Seema held back the tears as she flicked the light off and shuffled in the dark towards her bed, slipping under the duvet and hugging the phone to her chest.

#

It was gone midnight when the phone rang. Seema awoke from her light and fitful sleep. She pressed the answer button.

'Seem? Seem, are you there? Seem~'

"Oh Sim! Yes I'm~"

Simran burst into tears.

"Oh Sim, it's~"

'Seem, I love you, please believe me, don't believe~'

"Sim, it's ok, it's ok~"

'I'm sorry I didn't pick you up from work, so sorry, I love you, please~'

"Oh Sim, babe, slow down," Seema sat up in bed and wiped her eyes. "You've got to~"

'Seem, I was tricked, my fucking uncle, Seem I love~'

"You've got to listen to me babe, ok? I need to know if you're ok."

'No I'm not. I want you Seem, I'm sorry, I was tricked, I love you, gotta believe me, and no one else, please~'

"Sim, I love you too, and I want you too, and I believe you, ok? But I need to know you're ok."

'Yes...' Simran sobbed.

"Ok honey. You've got to listen. I know you were tricked, ok, and I know it's your uncle~"

'I hate him!' Simran sobbed. 

"Listen babe, I'm coming to get you, I know where you are~"

Simran burst into heavier sobs of relief. It was all too much for Seema. She needed to stay calm, but she couldn't stop herself from weeping.

"~I'm coming tomorrow, ok. But listen, I'll need know when you're going to be in the house on your own."

'Ok.'

"Are you on your own now?" Seema glanced at her clock. The red LEDs shone 12.37am.

'Yeah I am. Seem I really miss you, I'm sorry about Monday~'

"Babe, it's ok, really. I miss you too. Is it your father that's keeping you there?"

'Yeah. I can't believe he would do this...my fucking uncle. My Dad just does whatever he says every fucking time...he's gone too far this time. Seem~'

"Sim, please listen. Have you got a pen and paper?"

'No, nothing. It's like I'm a prisoner~'

"Ok, listen babe, you need to call me tomorrow and tell me when you're alone. I'll give you my mobile number, and you'll need to remember it, ok? I'll be getting the first train that I can get."

Simran sniffed and repeated the numbers as Seema spoke her mobile number, over and over until Simran knew it.

'What if I forget it?' Simran sobbed.

"You won't my love~"

'Shit, my father's back, I need to go. Seem, I really love you, so much, please believe me~'

"Sim, I know, and I love you too my~"

Before she could finish her sentence, Simran had put the phone down. Seema laid back, a sense of relief warming her body. At least Simran knew that she still loved her.

#

Seema woke early, despite not sleeping too well. The first rays of sunlight were just starting to show, but they were struggling against dark and pregnant cloud. Nothing would damp Seema's enthusiasm though. She ate a hasty bowl of muesli washed down with some orange juice. Usually, Seema hated an empty fridge, but this morning, she didn't notice.

Her plan had come together early that morning, somewhere between wakefulness and sleep, though she had to admit there were still a few rather important unknown variables. She would book a room for two at a hotel. She had no idea when Simran's father would leave her alone in the house; it may not be until evening. So, a hotel was a good idea. Seema would be prepared for a long wait until Simran made the phone call; find a cafe or two and wait. But, what would happen then? How could she help Simran escape a locked house?

"Not much of a plan, is it?" Seema's shoulders sagged. 

For some reason, the image of Mo' pleasuring himself with Simran's underwear invaded her mind. She glowered and pulled her shoulders back.

#

Seema had been lucky with train times. She hadn't bothered to book an advanced ticket, instead choosing to get to the station as early as possible. Just as she took the steps down to the correct platform, a train arrived. She took her thin raincoat off and made herself comfortable at the back of the carriage, which was only half full. She patted her coat pockets for the hundredth time that morning, making sure that her mobile, mobile charger and purse were safe.

She cradled her phone in her hands, her thumb a blur as she selected Simran's contact details. Simran's selfie filled the screen, sparkling eyes and bright smile filling Seema with happiness and resolve. The ticket collector momentarily disturbed her, but then she resumed her dreamy gaze upon Simran's picture.

Seema fell asleep to the gentle rocking and rhythmic tap-tap of the train tracks, until the announcement for her stop roused her from her dreams. She pulled her coat on, patted her pockets and made her way to an exit. She shuffled impatiently as the train crawled through a dark and damp tunnel and out the other side until it came to a stop at the one solitary platform.

As soon as the chime sounded, Seema opened the door and stepped down on to the platform. Even at the station, the wind-driven rain had an ozone laden salty tang from the nearby ocean. It was also much cooler. Seema zipped her raincoat up, and pulled the collar around her neck as she took the stairs towards the exit.

She knew from a quick web search that the station was approximately a mile away from the house where Simran was being kept. Before she had fallen asleep on the train, she had searched out two hotels that were roughly in between the house and the station. She had managed to book a twin room, check in any time from midday. 

Seema made her way out from the station, bracing herself against the rain, which showed no sign of abating. The clouds were still dark and heavy, and as she walked along a busy street on a route mapped out on her phone, Seema couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. She quickened her pace. 

#

Seema ordered her third coffee, this time with a slice of chocolate caramel cake. She took a bite and let the delightful taste suffuse her taste buds as she peered out of the large front window of the cafe. From her seat she had a good view of the curve of sandy beach and the rolling white topped waves of the grey sea. Seema thought it would look extremely picturesque on a nice day. 




Seema's Journey Ch. 05



Seema lay on her side, propped her head up and gazed at her. 

Simran had just stirred, waking Seema in the process. She lay on her front, one arm under the pillow, the other hanging languidly off the edge of the bed, still fast asleep. Her tousled hair was spread out over her shoulders and partly obscured her face. She was taking up most of the single bed, and Seema only had a thin strip to lie on.

Seema smiled as she gently stroked Simran's hair from her face. In deep sleep, she had a relaxed and contended look, her cheeks flushed ever so slightly, with her lips parted a millimetre and her slow, deep exhalations gently whistling from her nose. All Seema wanted to do was devour her, worshipping every square inch of her body.

Seema considered the rough and scary rollercoaster ride her emotions had taken over the last few days. So many ups and downs had left her drained. But now, lying next to Simran, she realised that she would go through it all again just to be with her girl.

Love is a strange thing, Seema thought. She felt an overwhelming mixture of emotions. All at once she felt like crying with joy, but also laughing at the giddy and intense feelings she had for Simran. It felt like her insides were independent from her body as they rolled around, buffeted by the exciting and powerful feelings of besotted love. Seema took a deep breath to try and steady herself. She smiled, stroking her fingers over Simran's shoulders.

The bed clothes had been pushed off during their sleep. The hotel room was warm. Seema looked down the length of Simran's body. The beautiful way the small of Simran's back curved up to the smooth globes of her buttocks, their cleft pointing a straight line that continued between her legs to her feet, bolstered Seema's carnal desire.

Seema resisted. For now, she thought, as she kissed Simran's shoulder. She gently rolled off the bed and explored their little hotel room. It was certainly cosy, with a small wardrobe, a little TV and the usual mini-kettle and selection of individually wrapped biscuits. Seema took a custard cream and finished it in two bites. They hadn't eaten yet, and her stomach grumbled at its emptiness.

She picked up Simran's clothes from the floor and hung them over the radiator to dry. Seema took one look at Simran's slippers and almost put them in the bin; they had been well and truly spoilt after their sprint through the puddles. She popped them on the radiator too.

As she stood at the foot of the bed, she gazed again at Simran, snoring lightly. Seema knew that she needed to sleep, but she couldn't. She was revelling in her sweet emotions. Besides which, she was also suddenly overcome with the desire to make Simran cum again. As she stared, Simran stirred again, moving her legs a few inches apart. Seema's heart jumped a beat as the dark tuft of Simran's crotch came into view.

Seema walked to side of the bed and knelt down. She devoured Simran with her eyes, letting her gaze linger on the oval globes of her bottom, skin so smooth and perfect. Seema reached forward and stroked her palm over Simran's buttocks, tracing the perfect curves around to her hips and back to the middle.

Simran didn't stir, her breathing still deep and slow. Seema ran her fingers up and down Simran's back, down her legs and then back up again. She kissed the small of Simran's back, just above the top of the cleft between her cheeks. Simran issued a sleepy, low pitched moan, but still didn't move. 

Seema hesitated before slipping her hand between the tops of Simran's thighs until she brushed against her pussy. The heat and wetness took her by surprise. Slowly, she slipped her first two fingers inside until they were enveloped in Simran's moist warmth.

Simran moaned sleepily, lifting her bottom against the slow movements of Seema's fingers. Seema stared, enthralled as Simran's cleft parted as she lifted her hips. The dark coloured, softly haired valley gave Seema a sharp jolt of electric desire. As she slid her fingers in and out of Simran's pussy, she placed her thumb within Simran's cleft and massaged the soft and dark ring.

"Ahhhh, Seem...that's fantastic..." Simran whispered softly as she lifted her head and turned to gaze drowsily at Seema.

Simran giggled sleepily as she watched Seema staring at her nether regions with owlish eyes. Simran closed her eyes, bucking her hips as Seema pushed her fingers faster.

"Wow....ahhh....." Simran drew her knees up, pushing her bottom higher in the air. "Oh wow, Seem..."

Seema kept a steady pace and angled her fingers downwards, drawing moans deeper in pitch, and eager upward thrusts from Simran. Seema swapped her thumb for a finger and gently circled it around the soft ring of muscle between Simran's buttocks. 

Abruptly, Simran buried her face in her pillow, grabbing handfuls of it in her bunched fists, and with a muffled moan and one final jerk of her hips, reached her climax. Seema withdrew her finger from Simran's cleft and stared in fascination as her dark ring quivered through her orgasm. 

Simran kept her bottom in the air as the ebb and flow of her climax subsided, the pillow still muffling her breathy moans. Gradually she relaxed, letting her hips flop back down on to the bed and her body turn limp. Seema stroked the warm orbs of Simran's bottom as she removed her fingers, covered in creamy lube. Simran giggled deliriously as she turned on her side and gazed sleepily at Seema.

"That was a nice wake-up call!"

"Sorry," Seema said with a dirty smile. "I couldn't resist."

She kissed Simran lips, before bringing her hand up to her mouth to lick the creamy, redolent juices covering her fingers. Simran giggled and pulled Seema's fingers from her mouth towards her own. 

"Wow, Sim...I'm so in love with you..."

"Seem, you don't know how much I love you too. Come here."

Simran coaxed her back on to the bed, shifting over a few inches to make room. Simran knelt up and playfully shoved Seema on to her front, kneeling between her legs. She ran her fingers in smooth circles on Seema's bottom and lower back, eliciting a few giggles at the light, ticklish touch. Seema gasped as she felt Simran's fingers push slowly into her.

"Ahhh, so wet babe," Simran breathed.

As she eagerly used her fingers, she gently pulled at Seema's left buttock before placing a finger between them. Seema relished the extra sensation between her cheeks, allowing it to lift her towards her peak. Simran covered Seema's bottom with kisses, and as her fingers probed and stroked, Seema gratefully allowed her climax to wash over her.

#

They were back between the sheets, hugging tight.

"Seem..." Simran said. Her cheeks flushed as a saucy grin played on her lips. "Have you ever, umm, put anything up there?" She patted Seema's bottom.

Seema giggled. "Have you?"

"No," Simran said with mock disgust. She chuckled and then nuzzled into the crook of Seema's neck. "Ok...yes."

Seema laughed. "I have too."

"Ah! You admit it!" Simran laughed raucously. "Was it something big?"

"No! Ouch!" Seema giggled.

"What then?" Simran asked, playfully pinching Seema's buttock.

"A finger," whispered Seema, her face now a deep red. "But only once though..."

"Me too!" giggled Simran.

They were silent for a moment, a little embarrassed by their sudden confessions.

"I've always loved your bottom," whispered Seema, reaching around to grasp Simran's buttock.

"I love yours too."

Seema sighed. "I wish I could see you naked all the time, you sexy girl!"

"Hmm! Naughty!" chuckled Simran. "I suppose....I suppose I'd let you take a photo of me, if you want. You can look at it whenever you like then!" 

Seema felt a sudden chill wash over her. She recoiled and her smile instantly disappeared; the images on Mo''s mobile 'phone flashed through her mind, washing away the warm afterglow of her climax.

"Umm," stammered Seema.

Simran's smile dissolved. "Sorry babe, I...I just thought..."

Seema snapped her attention back to Simran. "No, no babe. I'd love to...ummm...how are you feeling?"

"Well, ok until few seconds ago. Have I said something~"

"I think I need to tell you a few things...about what's happened over the last few days."

"Ok," said Simran, suddenly anxiously. Confused, she sat up and drew the bedclothes up tight around her shoulders.

#

Seema sat awkwardly on the edge of the small bath tub, wishing that she had left it until the next morning to tell Simran about what had happened since Monday afternoon. 

"Can't fucking believe it...!" Simran cried as she retched again, her torso convulsing as thick yellow liquid dripped from her mouth. She was on all fours in front of the toilet with her head over the bowl, and she didn't have anything more to bring up. "He's my uncle...gnuuugh...dirty fucking... gnuuugh!"

Seema closed her eyes. Even the sight of Simran's naked bottom poking up in the air, beautiful buttocks well and truly parted, couldn't keep them open. Understandably, Simran hadn't taken too well to uncle Mo' enjoying her dirty underwear. At first and for a solid minute, Simran had frozen on the bed as she attempted to comprehend what Seema had told her. Then, she had cried. Then, she had been angry. Then, she had bolted to the bathroom.

"And the pictures of me," Simran continued, heaving one last time. "On his 'phone...fuck!"

Seema winced. "Sim~"

"I tell you what," Simran said in a decidedly wobbly voice. She sat back on her haunches. "Forget lying low for a bit. My bloody father needs to know all this. Maybe then he won't think uncle Mo' quite so 'amazing'..." She pulled a long wad of tissue off the roll and wiped her mouth. "Yuck."

"Well, babe, maybe~"

"And another thing," Simran stood up unsteadily, threw the tissue in the bowl and flushed the toilet. She had the shakes and she winced at the acid taste in her mouth. "What's this about a fucking inheritance, hmm? Why would anyone think that I would count that as more important than you, the person I love, hmm? Fucking evil dirty pervert bastard! Trying to break us up...sneaking in to my flat and, and...bastard!"

Seema had never seen Simran so animated. In fact, this was the first time she had seen her angry at all. "I know..." It was all Seema could think of saying.

"And he upset you," Simran's anger subsided. She stood up and embraced Seema to her bosom. "No one upsets my Seema."

Seema gratefully nuzzled her face between Simran's breasts. Simran's heart was beating fast and her chest was covered in a thin sheen of perspiration. Seema rubbed her hands up and down Simran's clammy back in an attempt to alleviate her shakes.

"So, what shall we do honey?" Seema asked. "Like an idiot, I didn't think to bring spare clothes for you, or shoes. Do you want to get back tonight? We'd still be able to get a train back."

"No," Simran whispered. She sighed. "Let's have a night here. I want us to make love all night."

"Oh, ok!" Seema chuckled softly, thankful Simran had calmed a little. 

"Hopefully, uncle Mo' will be crapping himself now. Let him stew for a bit."

"Mmhmm," Seema whispered. She kissed a nipple gently. "I'll pop out in the morning and buy some shoes and stuff for~"

"Woah! Not on your own. I don't want to be apart from you, so I'll come with you."

"Cool with me," Seema said softly. Her stomach decided to grumble so loud it echoed in the tiny bathroom. "Umm...I know you probably don't want me to talk about food, but...I really need some."

Simran chuckled. "I really don't feel hungry. But...I suppose I should try to eat. Does the hotel do evening meals?"

"No, only breakfasts." Seema frowned. "I'll have to pop out and get something. Umm, your slippers and clothes are still wet..."

"Well...don't be long then, please..." Simran hugged her arms across her chest.

"I won't my love," Seema said softly. 

#

Seema hadn't bothered to put her clothes on the radiator in their room, so they were still damp and cold. She squirmed uncomfortably as she took the stairs down to the hotel lobby. The feeling of her cold and damp panties against her warm, moist crotch was quite horrible. 

As she exited the hotel, she scanned around, just in case Simran's father was lurking. Seema gave a wry chuckle. 

"If she sees him now, he won't know what hit him," she said under her breath. 

Seema only had to walk around the corner to find a take-away. Next door to it was a supermarket, a large one, too. "Excellent!" Despite the fact that the rain had eased to a light and misty drizzle, Seema still didn't want to traipse around for too long in wet clothes.

She returned to the hotel with a bag full of hot food and a complete change of clothes and footwear for Simran. She thanked her stars for large supermarket chains. She knocked on the door of their room. She shuffled her feet. 

"Sim, it's me," Seema called. There was a chilling moment before Seema heard footsteps.

"Sorry babe. I was on the loo," Simran said as she let Seema in, hiding behind the door as she was still naked. "Mmm, smells nice."

"It's probably laden with saturates, but what the hell! I got you some clothes too. I hope these trainers fit you."

"Thanks Seem. I'll pay you back when~"

"No, don't worry. Consider all of it an 'I'm so glad we're together again' present," Seema chuckled. "My clothes are still soaked."

"Strip off and I'll put them on the radiator. We can eat naked!" 

#

"Mm, gosh," Simran sighed, patting her stomach. "Fish and chips always taste better at the seaside, don't they?"

"Mmhm." Seema couldn't quite manage her last few remaining chips. "Personally, I think I would enjoy anything whilst sat next to you naked." She grinned at Simran.

They were sat cross-legged on the single bed, facing each other with the fish and chip wrapping between them. A can of fizzy drink each washed it all down nicely. 

"I really don't want us to be apart ever again," Simran said, suddenly serious. She scrunched the food wrapping up and quickly stuffed it in the plastic bag. "Really...never."

"Ditto," smiled Seema. She leant forward and kissed Simran's lips, still salty from the take-out. 

"I mean, I know we'd be apart during work...but...I just love you so much, Seem. You do know that, don't you?"

Seema nodded, stroked her fingers over Simran's cheek and down over her nipples. "I love you too babe," she whispered.

Simran swung her legs off the bed. "Come with me." She pulled Seema by the hand. "Bring the blanket with you."

Seema tugged the top blanket off the bed and followed Simran to the window. Simran pushed the curtain to one side and opened the window wide. They knelt by the window and wrapped themselves together in the blanket as the cool gusts of wind blew in, sweeping the smell of fish and chips up in its wake. Inside the blanket, Seema and Simran were cocooned in warmth. Simran pulled the curtain behind them, shutting out the light from their room.

"I love the view out to sea. As a kid I used to stare out my bedroom window for hours. I used to come here in the holidays."

The cool wind was a refreshing change after the still air of the hotel room. It was dark outside, and although the rain was still falling, the swirling wind was taking it away from the window. Simran hugged Seema, pulling her closer.

"I love sound of the waves, and love the lights in the distance, over there," Simran pointed. "It's the next town up the coast."

"It's amazing," Seema whispered. She had never holidayed much with her family, certainly never a sea-side holiday. "I'd like us to go somewhere like this for a holiday."

"Yeah," Simran said wistfully.

The rain in the air made the lights in the distance fuzzy, like an old grainy television picture. Seema tried to imagine what the people of that town were doing. Maybe there was another couple gazing out of a hotel window, looking towards her and Simran. She hoped that they were as happy as she was. The rhythmic sounds of the waves crashing on the rocks below their window, was incredibly soothing. Seema felt herself relax totally and leant on the window sill and sighed.

Simran moved her hand down Seema's back until she cupped Seema's crotch. Seema glanced at Simran and smiled. She moved her hand until she felt Simran's dense triangle against her fingers.

"Uh uh," Simran smiled and shook her head. "This is just for you." She giggled and gently pushed Seema's hand away. "Just relax honey."

Seema closed her eyes and arched her back as she felt Simran's fingers stroke back and forth, sometimes slipping inside between her lips, but always stroking the sensitive button at the top of her furrow. Simran rained short, gentle kisses to Seema's shoulder, whispering her undying and everlasting love.

With the cool wind brushing against her face and little dots of rain beginning to splash her cheeks, Seema reached a long lasting climax, drenching Simran's skilful fingers. Simran brought her hand to her mouth and savoured the lube before kissing Seema softly.

"I love you."

#

After ten hours of solid and deep sleep, Seema felt wonderfully refreshed. She was moderately surprised that it had in fact been solid sleep; Simran insisted on them both sleeping in the single bed, not that Seema minded in the slightest. But it was a tight squeeze. 

Seema stood by the open window, breathing in the fresh sea air. The sky was clear, the wind gentle and the sea calm; the complete opposite to the day before. It was breath taking. She felt a pair of hands grasp her buttocks.

"So, you like standing naked next to windows then?" Simran giggled as she slipped in to Seema's embrace.

"Morning gorgeous," Seema said. "This view is fab. The weather caught me by surprise. It's fabulous."

"It's lovely." Simran drew her arm around Seema's waste. "Come on, I think we need to put some clothes on. You never know who is watching." Simran's cheeky smile quickly disappeared. She cleared her throat. "Isn't that true..."

Seema broke from her reverie. An evening of togetherness with Simran, another night in bed together; it had been wonderful. But now, she remembered why they were in the hotel in the first place.

"So..." Seema said anxiously. "What's the plan of action? Do you want to go and see your father?"

Simran sighed heavily. She sat on the edge of the bed and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. "I don't know. Whatever, I want you there with me, Seem -"

"Of course honey." Seema sat next to her and grasped her hand reassuringly.

"- it may not be nice...shouting matches, you know...then dad will get upset when I tell him what my uncle's been doing... and ... aww shit." Simran threw her arms in the air before covering her face with her hands and planting her elbows on her knees.

"This is all my fault..." Seema said quietly.

"What?"

"Well, if you'd never met me, this would never have~"

"If I'd never met you, I would never be as happy as I am now." Simran stroked Seema's cheek. "Nothing is going to stop us from being the happiest couple I've ever known. Nothing ... not my dad, not my perverted uncle, no-one."

#

At first, Seema had been full of bravado after Simran's little pep talk; together they would confront Simran's father, telling him how it is and how it should be, all guns blazing. But now, as they were walking past the cafe in which Seema had sat for hours the day before, she suddenly felt small and insignificant; and decidedly nervous. She could see the house. The white uPVC was much brighter in the sunlight. The same car was parked at a jaunty angle on the small gravel driveway. 

Simran grasped Seema's hand as they approached the front door. It gleamed so bright in the sun that Seema had to squint. Behind them, across the road and beyond the old iron railings, the sea rolled gently back and forth over the flat sand. The joyous laughing and playful screams of children enjoying the beach rolled up to Seema, carried in waves by the warm breeze. She felt more anxious now than for her job interview, or her driving tests. As Simran knocked on the door, Seema took a deep breath and squeezed Simran's hand.




Seema's Journey Ch. 05



Heavy and rushed footsteps sounded. A key was hastily turned and the door was thrown open. Simran's father stood stock still, dressed in loose jeans and an old shirt, tired eyes staring and flicking angrily between them. Simran stood tall and defiant. Seema wanted to close her eyes tight and put her hands over her ears to defend against the barrage of vitriol that was surely to come. 

Instead, he lunged forward and flung his arms around Simran.

"Simran! Where the bloody hell have you been?" he cried. "I've been so worried, you...you stupid girl!"

He took Simran completely by surprise. After a few confused moments she put her arms loosely around her father, shooting a questioning glance at Seema. 

He stood back and looked at Seema, his face tightening into an angry scowl. "You!" He pointed angrily at Seema. "This is your fault, you disgusting~"

"Dad!" Simran shouted, standing between them. "No! Don't you dare shout at Seem! No way!"

Seema shook and felt like crying. 

"Listen Dad, we need to talk...ok. But not here...being as though this is where you kept your daughter...like a prisoner, for fuck's sake!"

His face relaxed instantly, the fatigue in his eyes returning. "Oh Simran, please don't swear..." He peered over his shoulder. "I can't go anywhere...for one thing, your mother said she'd call, and secondly the glazier is due...to fix the window you smashed...why did you have to smash it, sweetness?" He almost whined. "I've been so worried about you. Your mother is going mad with worry at home."

"And who is to blame for that?" Simran said hotly.

"We can't help being in love you know," Seema blurted. She immediately looked down at the floor as Simran's father glared at her. 

Seema glanced sideways at Simran, who winced as she looked between her and her father. Seema rummaged in her pocket for her purse. She withdrew some money and held it out to Simran's father. "To pay towards the smashed window..." she said quietly.

"I don't want your ..." His angry voice trailed off. His eyes fell as he looked awkwardly at the ground. "If you want to talk, you better come in."

"Are you going to keep us both prisoners here?" Simran asked, doing her very best to maintain a sharp voice.

"Oh Simran, sweetness..." Simran's father looked close to tears. He turned and walked slowly inside.

Seema and Simran exchanged confused glances before following him inside. Seema put the money back in her pocket before closing the white uPVC door.

#

They sat in the kitchen at a small pine table. There was a cool breeze coming in through a window frame which was devoid of glass. A sweeping brush lay on the floor next to a carrier bag full of broken glass. The kitchen was bare and the bright white walls added to the sterile atmosphere. 

"Dad, there's a few things you need to know," said Simran, getting straight down to business. She wanted to get things over with. "First, Seema is very special to me, and I love her very much-"

Simran's father winced.

"-and you need to get used to that. Understand?!"

"Sweetness, but that can't be right, surely. Like Mo' said~"

"Ahh, Mo'!" Simran's laugh was cold. "More about your precious Mo' in a minute. Let's stick with me and Seem first, ok! Dad, your daughter is happy," Simran's voice softened. "I'm really happy. Doesn't that make you happy?"

Confusion played over his jowly face. His shoulders sagged and he rubbed his eyes. Seema stayed silent. She was still shaking, but somehow she guessed there wouldn't be any more shouting. Simran's father looked, if anything, an overly stressed out man.

"Does it Dad?" Simran pressed.

"Yes...I suppose...but it's wrong...like Mo' keeps telling me."

Simran sighed and rolled her eyes. "Dad...umm...there's other stuff I need to tell you." 

Simran paused. Seema wasn't sure whether the pause was for effect or because Simran wasn't sure how to breach the subject. Automatically, Simran grasped Seema's hand, a gesture immediately noticed by her father. But, there was no glowering look, merely a slight resign.

"Dad, whilst you were keeping me...whilst I was here, Seema discovered a few things..."

Whilst Simran recounted Seema's escapades and discoveries, Seema readied herself for a barrage of expletives from Simran's father as he leapt to his brother's defence. But, as Simran told of the dirty panties and the pictures on Mo''s mobile phone, his eyes seemed to glaze over, a distant and sad look on his face.

'Oh my gosh,' thought Seema. 'Has this happened before?' 

"Dad...?" Simran said gently.

His eyes became moist. Anger briefly flickered across face.

"Dad, are you ok?" Simran looked worried.

A knock at the front door broke the heavily pregnant silence. Seema was almost relieved at the interlude. Simran's father rose silently, took a deep breath and exhaled slowly.

"Glazier..." he murmured, and walked out of the kitchen.

Seema turned in her chair to watch as he left the room. "Um, is he ok?"

"He's just been told his brother is a perv," Simran said quietly as she peered down the corridor towards the front door.

Seema could tell she was concerned. "What shall we do now babe?"

Simran's father came back along with the glazier, who immediately set about taking measurements. Simran pulled her father to one side.

"Dad, we'll go and sit on the beach for a bit while the window gets sorted. I'll pay for it," she said guiltily. The defiance and anger at her father had drained away.

"No sweetness, it's ok. I'm glad you're safe." He glanced quickly at Seema. "Both of you..." He shook his head bitterly. "So many lies..." He turned back to the glazier. "Would you like a cup of tea?"

Simran shot a confused glance at Seema. "We'll be back in a bit then Dad."

#

The sea breeze was gentle and warm. The tide had turned quickly and the families enjoying the small waves followed it down as it retreated further, leaving the sand dark and flat. Seema and Simran sat against the sea wall under the iron railings.

Seema let the dry, fine sand ooze between her toes as she dug her feet into the beach. She couldn't believe that her mother had never taken Seema and her brother to a beach when they were kids. The fresh sea air was so incredibly relaxing, and she could now see why so many people thought of a seaside holiday as the perfect tonic for the ills of the cities. Seema had never swam in the sea or built sandcastles. But, here she was, sat on a beach snuggled up with her lover. Could life get any better?

Simran was distant though, deep in thought. She hadn't said much since they had sat down together on the soft sand. Seema wished they were talking, laughing, joking, enjoying each other's company, but she knew Simran was worried about her father, and angry at Mo''s misdemeanours. Rather than being angry, her father had been utterly relieved to see his daughter. It was plainly obvious that everything he had done had been under duress. And it had plainly taken its toll.

Seema was more concerned that his reaction to Mo''s perverse transgressions seemed to betray a reawakened memory or two, as well as a deep black anger. Simran hadn't mentioned this; either she had been oblivious to it, or she was choosing to ignore it.

Simran turned to Seema and kissed her quickly on the lips. She stood up, looked in the direction of the house and growled impatiently.

"How long does it take someone to put new glass in, for goodness' sake?"

"Stay calm, honey," Seema said, pulling Simran back down to the sand. "So...what's the plan babe?"

"Well, as soon as I know my Dad's ok...I want to make Mo' pay for being a dirty, mean bastard."

"I think we all do..." Seema's inference was lost Simran.

"Basically, I'm going to tell Mo' that if he doesn't comply, I will out him as a pervert." Simran's voice was steady.

"Comply with what?"

"My Mum and Dad do so much for him, and he's stinking rich, and they're not very well off. That's not right."

"No. So..." Seema coaxed.

"He needs to pay my parents back for everything they've done for him - let me tell you, they've done loads - and if he doesn't...I'll out him as a pervert who sniffs his niece's underwear, wanks on her fucking bed, and takes secret pictures of her." Simran looked like she was about to vomit.

Seema was silent. 

"Ever since they were young boys, my Dad was always taking the rap for things Mo' did," Simran continued. "It's always been the same. Speeding ticket? Don't worry, my Dad will take the rap. A loan? Yeah sure! You know, my Dad stumped up the cash for Mo''s first business venture. He still owes it! My Mum's afraid to say anything, you know, never come between two brothers. And uncle Mo' keeps saying that he'll pay the money back, twice over...yeah, right! Mum and Dad are effectively inside Mo''s fucking pocket! They're better than that..."

Simran was gradually getting more and more upset. Seema hugged her.

"My Dad is such a good guy at heart," Simran said. "But he's so frustratingly weak. He needs to tell Mo' to fuck the fuck off!"

Seema felt a little overwhelmed with this sudden torrent of new information. She could see why Simran was getting so worked up, though her anger and language shocked her.

"So," said Simran, steel returning to her voice. "I will make sure he pays back what he owes..."

"Ok..." Seema had massive reservations. Mo''s cruel scheming and perverse tastes had left her scared of the man. What would he be willing to do to stop Simran's attempt at blackmail, she wondered. 

"I take it you're not sure," Simran said folding her arms.

"It's blackmail~"

"He tried to break us up!" Simran cried. "He uses my pants, takes pictures...shit! Are you saying I'm in the wrong?"

"No Sim," Seema sat up, holding her hands up defensively. "I just think maybe your father can sort it out, maybe we should leave it for him to sort out."

"Have you listened to anything I've said?" Simran shouted. She pulled away and stood up, hands defiantly on her hips.

"Sim...honey..." Seema said, lurching backwards at Simran's sudden anger. Seema's face had flushed a deep red. 

"Shit! Shit..." Simran knelt down and hugged Seema tight. "I'm sorry babe, I'm sorry...but, look at what Mo''s doing to us..."

"It's ok...I wasn't having a go at you," Seema said. She wanted to cry. "I don't want you to get into trouble....Mo' scares me."

"He scares me too. But that doesn't change the fact that he tried to break us up and owes my parents money. They're too...too laid back to do anything about it. After all they've done for me over the years, the least I can do is help them get their dues. He needs to pay for what he tried to do to us. Not to mention the unhealthy attitude towards his niece..."

"I know babe...just be careful though, ok?"

"I will, Seem...I'm sorry I shouted." 

"It's ok, Sim. You know I'll help you, and stand by you."

"Thanks honey. Look at what Mo' has done altogether. He's spoilt the first days of you and me." Simran cradled Seema's face in her hands. She kissed Seema gently on the lips. 

Voices behind them broke the silence. Simran stood up to look. "Finally. The glaziers going. Come on honey."

They took the steps up to the pavement. Seema was still reeling from Simran's shouting as they walked hand in hand back to the house. Simran's father was standing in the doorway, waiting.

#

The kitchen was now draft less, thanks to the new glass in the window. The atmosphere was still a little cold, probably due to Simran grasping Seema's hand and not at all trying to hide it. For a few minutes, there was silence as Simran's father mulled things over. 

"Sweetness, I am sorry," he said eventually. He reached for Simran's hand. "You know I don't think it is right, this - ," he waved his hand between Seema and Simran. " - relationship. But...you are obviously happy?"

"Yes Dad, we are," Simran said, squeezing Seema's hand. "Seem is so special to me~"

"Ok, ok..." Simran's father rubbed his eyes. He turned to Seema. "Seema...my daughter is my princess. She means everything to me and her mother, you see?"

Seema nodded. "She means a lot to me, too."

"Yes, yes..." he said impatiently. "You will treat her like a princess, yes?"

"She already does, Dad," Simran interjected. "Look, don't worry about us."

"Ha! You wait until you have children, sweetness," he said. He flushed red, immediately seeing his faux-pas. He cleared his throat. "What I mean is, a parent always worries over the children, you see?"

"Yes Dad. But there was no reason to keep me locked up here. Do you see that?"

Simran's father closed his eyes.

"That really upset me," Simran continued. Her voice wobbled. "It upset Seema too. Do you see that?"

Suddenly, he started weeping. Deep throaty sobs shook the loose bulk of his body. He pressed his hands to his face, hiding himself. Simran stood up and hugged her father, tears rolling down her cheeks.

Though Seema was a little shocked, she could now see why Simran wanted revenge on Mo'. He was responsible for all this upset, and he probably doesn't even care, thought Seema. 

"Sweetness, I hope you can forgive me," he said quietly. 

"Of course, Dad. But why did you do it?"

"My bloody brother, that's why." Simran's father jerked upright and gesticulated angrily with his hands. "He gave me some mumbo jumbo story about Seema being an...umm...actress...and you and her posing for photographs for some dirty internet website~"

"What!?" chorused Seema and Simran.

"~and that I needed to keep you away from Seema because she was the she-devil incarnate~"

"And you believed him? Shit, Dad!" Seema cried.

"Oh, sweetness, I am so sorry," he said hastily. "He told me he had the photographs to prove it, and he made up a story about me being ill...that is how he got you to leave work?"

"Yes," Simran said testily as a tear dripped down her cheek. "But you believed him! That really hurts, Dad!"

Seema felt numb as she watched Simran and her father. His look of guilt and regret spoke volumes. His eyes filled with tears. 

"Sweetness, look..." Simran's father sniffed and fished his mobile 'phone from his pocket. "Apparently, these were the first set of photographs taken for this...website."

Simran grabbed his 'phone and looked at the screen. She closed her eyes. "Aww, blimey Dad," she whimpered and passed the 'phone to Seema. "That was a private moment, a special moment for me and Seem...I don't believe this."

It was a photograph taken of them sat under the tree at the park. They were in the middle of a deep and passionate kiss. Seema flicked through more photos. There was a photo of them kissing outside Seema's flat, and a few photos of them sucking whipped cream off each other's fingers. These were no grainy, blurred pictures taken hastily on a mobile phone, but high quality photos taken with a zoom.

"I knew we were being spied on, Sim," Seema said, almost chuckling at the absurdity of the whole situation. "Jake took these."

She gave the 'phone back to Simran who quickly gave it back to her father as if it was burning hot to the touch. 

"Please tell me you realise Mo' is lying..." Simran said, close to sobbing. 

"Of course I do...now." He wiped his eyes and glanced at Seema. "And now you tell me you saw my brother ... doing things in my daughters flat?"

"Yes," Seema said flatly. At that moment, she was more concerned about the photos, and where they might end up. This was a whole new problem to worry about as far as Seema was concerned.

Simran's father sighed dejectedly. "He's gone too far this time. We will have to sort this out." His voice was flat, cold and devoid of any emotion.

"How exactly, Dad?" Simran asked sharply. "Uncle Mo' treats you like a bloody lackey, but you never do anything about it. How much money does he owe you? He also spun some story about my inheritance. What is my inheritance exactly?"

Simran's father remained silent and avoided her gaze. Simran gasped in frustration, throwing her hands in the air. 

"Look," she said testily. "I love you and Mum very much. I hate seeing you struggle with money, knowing that he owes you thousands. I will sort this out." Simran stood up, grabbed Seema's hand and pulled her up. "Come on honey, let's go."

"Sweetness, wait!" He stood up quickly, panic in his eyes. "What are going to do?"

"I don't know Dad," called Simran as they strode towards the door.

"I don't want you getting into trouble, or getting hurt," he said as he trundled after them.

"Getting hurt," Simran said, spinning around as her father came to her. "Why would I get hurt?"

"Please, let me and your mother sort this out." He cradled Simran's face in his hands, and pleaded. "Please, my sweetness, please."

Simran melted. "Oh Dad...look, don't worry."

"Oh, sweetness," he whispered. He fished around in his pocket and pulled out Simran's purse and car keys. He handed them back to her. "I love you, my sweetness."

"I love you too."

She kissed him on the forehead, turned to open the door and stepped outside into the warm sun, pulling Seema with her. As they strode off along the pavement, Seema looked back over her shoulder to see Simran's father stood forlorn in the doorway.

#

Back at the hotel, they sat in the small bar area and drank a cool iced tea each. They were alone saving for the receptionist, whose duties obviously included serving at the bar; she looked completely bored. On the way back, they had stopped at the cafe and shared a freshly made sandwich and a chat with the kindly old lady. The old lady certainly had a way with people. Simran had calmed considerably.

"I'm sorry Seem," Simran said after she had drained her glass. "It's not normally this dramatic with my family. Honestly!"

Seema chuckled, lacing her fingers through Simran's. "I'm glad things are sort of ok with your Dad."

"Mmm. I can't get my head around why he believes anything Mo' says." She sighed heavily. Simran turned to gaze at Seema. "As honeymoons go, this sucks, right?"

Seema laughed, and looked thoughtful. "A honeymoon...now that's a good idea."

"Mmm. It would be nice for us to have a honeymoon." Simran smiled. She sighed. "I feel better now the air's cleared with Dad. Can you believe what Mo' told him? We're porn stars, apparently! What a total bastard. And what he did in my flat. I don't think I want to sleep in that bed again...or even go back to the flat." She glanced sideways at Seema.

Seema swallowed at the lump in her throat. "Come and live with me..."

"Oh wow Seem...that would be great wouldn't it! But," she paused as her smile faltered. "Maybe after all this is over?"

Seema nodded, happy that the subject had been at least broached. Her heart was beating fast. She changed the subject. "I'm hoping that those pictures aren't on the internet."

"It's only us kissing. At least it's nothing else, you know..."

"True." Seema giggled.

"Talking of which...fancy going up to our room?" Simran said, a cheeky grin on her face.

#

Simran's tongue had easily brought Seema to her climax, flicking and licking slow then quick over just the right places. Ten minutes later with positions reversed, Seema realised her tongue had gone numb.

"Ahhh...damn...don't worry Seem," Simran gasped in frustration. Her body went limp. "I can't come..."

"Sorry honey," Seema said quietly. Her tongue felt like lead and it felt like she had acute lock-jaw. "Am I not doing it right?"

"No, it's not you." Simran pulled at Seema's hands, coaxing her to slide up between her legs. Simran sighed. "I'm all tense...mind's on things...sorry."

Seema kissed her lips. She gently rubbed her mound against Simran's before lifting herself up from between her legs. "Turn over honey. You need a massage," she said, matron-like.

Simran smiled and did as she was told. "Aww, you're the perfect girlfriend."




Seema's Journey Ch. 05



"Now, relax," Seema said quietly as she straddled Simran. She pressed down on the small of Simran's back and pushed her palms up either side of her spine. She did the same in reverse, keeping the same pressure.

Simran groaned as her back muscles warmed and relaxed. "Wow...that is fantastic!"

"Good," Seema whispered as she stared longingly at Simran's bottom. Every time she pushed her palms upwards from Simran's hips, her buttocks parted a centimetre. Seema found it mesmerising.

After three minutes, Seema could resist no more. She moved her hands slowly down to Simran's buttocks. Simran willingly responded by lifting her hips a little as Seema lovingly massaged the soft globes, firmly palming them apart and back together. 

Simran giggled. "That's very nice...mmm."

Seema lifted her leg and pushed at Simran's thigh, parting her legs. Straddling one leg, she slowly slid two slender fingers inside Simran's pussy, and began a slow and deep pump. Simran sighed dreamily as she pushed her hips against Seema's probing fingers. Seema pulled gently at Simran's left buttock, exposing her dark rosebud nestling in the crevice, and with a finger she gently rubbed the smooth ring of muscle. Simran whispered Seema's name as she bucked her hips to increase the depth of Seema's exploring fingers.

Seema pulled her finger away from Simran's cleft and brought it to her nose. The faint, musky scent was fabulous, acting like an aphrodisiac. She moistened the tip of her finger and gently pushed between Simran's buttocks against the soft ring. The tip of Seema's finger gradually worked its way in, and she couldn't help a soft whimper as she felt her fingertip being squeezed.

"Ah, Seem, yes...yes..." Simran whispered huskily, a distinct element of urgency creeping in to her voice and her movements.

Seema held her finger still, just keeping the tip at Simran's musky entrance. After a minute, Simran's moans of pleasure suddenly ceased and she tensed, holding herself rigid, bottom in the air, as Seema worked her fingers. With a beautiful twitch and squeeze of her rosebud, Simran climaxed, letting her breath out in a long, pleading whimper.

"Ahhhhh... my gosh, Seem," Simran panted. "Just fantastic..."

Simran turned over, pulled Seema down and kissed her softly. She pulled Seema's hand to her mouth, alternately sucking the fingertips and kissing Seema's soft lips.

"I love you Seem...I...I don't want all this..." Simran stammered, her eyes glistening with tears. "I don't want all this crap to scare you off."

"Sweetheart, it's not," Seema reassured. She placed her hand on Simran's cheek, stroking her thumb along the smooth ridge of her cheek bone. "It's not, my love. Don't worry."

"It's just that...you know, we've got a chance to spend proper time together," Simran started to sob, the tears coming thick and fast. "And all I can think about is my uncle in my flat...doing..."

"Oh, babe...come on," Seema said softly. "We've got the rest of our lives together. This is a blip, that's all. Don't stress."

Simran's voice became strained with anger and hurt. "He's still got my flat keys, and my spare key. I need to get my keys back, my mobile ... and I need to scream at him...or something."

"Ok, ok," Seema said. She propped herself up on her elbow. "Well...if we get a train back now, we'll be back in time."

"For what?" Simran sniffed and wiped her eyes.

"To go and find him...your uncle, I mean. Let's sort this all out. Today."

Simran sat up. Deep in thought, she rubbed Seema's thigh affectionately. "Would you mind honey?" she asked eventually.

"Of course not, Sim."

"Ok. I think I'd feel better if I was proactive...thanks honey. I'll buy the tickets."

#

Simran fell asleep on the train journey. She had rested her head on Seema's shoulder, and sleep had easily taken her. Every now and then, her head would loll forward, causing her to jolt half awake. But Seema eventually rested her head against Simran's, holding her still to allow her to sleep properly. Simran's limp fingers had remained loosely laced between Seema's for the whole journey. 

Seema felt on top of the world now she had her girl back. Their predicament muted her joyous feelings only a little; she had Simran back, that was what counted. She smiled inwardly at the curious glances from the other passengers as they walked the aisle. After an hour, her eyes were starting to feel heavy just as the announcement came for their station. 

She squeezed Simran's hand. "Sim," she said softly. "Honey... we're back."

Simran stirred, quickly coming around from her sleep. "Mm, sorry, must've dozed off."

Seema chuckled. They stood up and stretched before walking to the nearest door.

#

Seema could plainly see that Simran was amped up and ready for a confrontation as they walked at a fast pace through the city centre. In contrast to the freshness of the sea air, the city air was muggy and cloying. Seema felt uncomfortable as she felt droplets of perspiration running down the small of her back and her armpits moistening her top. Her nerves were certainly not helping. 

It had only just dawned on Seema that she would most likely see Jake. At first, she had panicked, almost suggesting that she wait in the lobby while Simran tore a strip off her uncle. But, no; this needed to be a team effort. Simran had stood bravely between Seema and Jake; now, Seema realised, she needed to stand shoulder to shoulder with Simran.

They reached the high rise building where Mo' based his business. The silvered glass mirrored the blue sky and wispy white clouds as Seema looked up at the thirty floors of offices. She experienced acute Deja vu as she felt giddy at seeing the clouds moving the wrong way in the reflection.

She followed Simran as she strode into the building through its automatic doors, coming to a halt at a giant LCD screen showing which floors the various businesses occupied. Before Seema could find the relevant information, Simran was pulling her by the hand towards the lift. She punched the button for the tenth floor.

"You ok babe?" Simran asked.

"Yup," Seema said, shuffling her feet. "Jake will probably be there."

"Oh, shit, Seem..." Simran held her hand to her mouth. "I'm so sorry...I didn't think...shit, what a bitch, I'm sorry~"

"It's fine babe. We're in this together." Seema forced a smile as she glanced warily around the large lobby.

Simran sagged, her certitude disappearing fast. She ignored the lift door opening, letting it shut again. She pulled Seema closer. "You don't have to come up...wait here...shit, I'm such a cow..."

"No...," Seema pushed her shoulders back. "Let's do this."

Simran hesitated before pushing the button again. The lift door opened immediately and they stepped in. They were silent as the lift smoothly took them up to the tenth floor. Inside, Seema wanted to scream, her innards knotting painfully as she contemplated seeing Jake for the first time since his visit. It was a massive effort for her to resist the instinct to press a button, exit the lift and run away.

A joyful musical chime signalled their arrival to the tenth floor. At once, they both took deep breaths and exhaled sharply just as the doors silently slid apart. A few steps away, a tanned and striking young lady in a blue business suit sat at a dark, polished wooden reception desk, her face and blonde hair given a blue-white hue by the light from her computer screen. Muted voices sounded from behind a door off to their left. The polished wooden floor, understated thin-point lighting and large rubber plants dotted around the reception area gave their surroundings a very high class and expensive feel. Simran hesitated for a second before striding towards the receptionist.

"Can I help," the tanned beauty asked without looking up from her computer screen.

"Yes, I'm here to see Mo'," said Simran in a very dainty and friendly voice. Seema shot her a quizzical glance.

"Oh," the receptionist said. She looked up and weighed up the visitors with a quick, business-like glance. "Sorry, he's on lunch."

From behind the door to the left, Seema heard laughter. She immediately recognised Mo''s sonorous tones.

"It's ok, I'm his niece," Simran chuckled girlishly. Despite the pit of her stomach churning wildly, Seema desperately wanted to giggle. Simran's smile was wide and friendly. And so comically false. "Is he in there?" Simran pointed to the door on the left.

Before the tanned beauty could answer, Simran strode towards the door. "Oi, 'scuse me," yelped the receptionist, her business like tones suddenly giving way to a rather more common accent. As Seema scurried after Simran, she shrugged her shoulders and winked at the receptionist. Seema guessed there wasn't much between the ears.

Simran threw the door open hard. It slammed against the wall, knocking something over behind it which smashed on the solid wood floor. Seema and Simran stood shoulder to shoulder.

"What is the meaning of this..." Mo''s voice trailed off. 

Seema's heart missed a step. Stood next to Mo' on the far side of a large and expensive looking tinted glass table was Jake, who looked mightily surprised. A group of business-suited men sat around the table. Seema recognised three of the ten strong group as Jake's friends. They had turned to look with a mixture of confusion and distaste on their faces.

"Fucking lying bastard fucking pervert!" Simran screamed. Now everyone looked surprised, their attention well and truly acquired. 

"Enjoy going to my flat and wanking into my dirty underwear do you? Like to sniff them, do you?" Simran spat. "I want my flat keys and mobile back, you dirty fucker!"

Mo' recovered quickly from his initial surprise. "What are you talking about? Ah, this is my niece, by the way." He gestured towards Simran, and looked around at his colleagues with a smirk on his face. 

"Nice to fucking meet you, suits," Simran growled. She glanced at Jake. "How's your head Jakey boy? Still got a headache? Fucking rapist!"

Jake looked away as his colleagues turned to peer at him quizzically. Seema squirmed. Her armpits were dripping with sweat, and her nerves jangled at the raised voices and stares.

Mo' stood up. "What is all this about, Simran?" He glanced about at his colleagues, raising his eyebrows and smiling. "She is a hot head, is she not?" There was a chorus of laughs from around the table. Jake remained impassive as his colleagues stared back at Seema and Simran.

"This is what's going to happen... is it not..." Simran said, sarcastically mimicking Mo'. "You are going to pay my mother and father back all the money that you owe them, or I will out you as the dirty fucking pervert that you are."

"What on earth are you talking about, dear niece." Mo' kept his features and voice even. "I have been flat-sitting for you. Is this the thanks I get?"

Simran laughed scornfully. "Is that what you call it? Flat-sitting?"

"Yes, flat-sitting whilst you were with your father, getting over your infatuation for this... this - " he gestured towards Seema, " - lesbian slut."

Seema's face flushed and her skin tingled painfully. She looked at the floor as a few of Mo''s colleagues stifled a snigger.

"So what if I'm a fucking lesbian, so what if I love this girl," shouted Simran. "Are you jealous? Are you? Want me to yourself? Your fucking neice?"

"Jealous!" snorted Mo'. "How ridiculous! I'm looking out for my niece, my brother's daughter, that is all."

"Ah, how sweet of you, fuckhead! Is that why you sniff my underwear? Is that why you've taken loads of pictures of me secretly on your mobile, pictures of me in swimsuits or in the middle of getting changed...yeah right."

Seema glanced at Mo' and for a microsecond, surprise flickered across his face. But his slick, phlegmatic smile quickly reappeared. He retrieved his phone from his suit trousers pocket, and threw it on the table.

"What pictures?" he said quietly, a sly grin stretching his lips.

Simran was about to stride forward to retrieve Mo''s 'phone, but Seema put a hand on her arm.

"Shit, Sim," Seema said quietly, close to tears. "I... I deleted them..." She glanced nervously at Mo'. Something had clicked in his brain. He glared at her, his sly grin now a humourless sneer as he nodded at her knowingly. Seema's instinct to bolt returned as she realised he now knew it was she who had been in Simran's flat and found him out.

Simran closed her eyes. Suddenly she was silent and let her shoulders slump. She grasped Seema's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. "Ok then, I'll get a DNA test done on all my dirty underwear, shall I?"

Mo' laughed out loud. Gradually all the suits started to laugh too, taking their lead from Mo'; all except for Jake.

"Your attempt at blackmail is pathetic and naive, but I suppose it's quite gallant of you. You love... your parents, and that's how it should be. But," he paused, and fished around in a polished wooden box on the desk in front of him, retrieving a small remote. "I wouldn't try and blackmail me if I were you...I have this."

As Mo' flicked a button on the remote, the whiteboard screen behind him lit up from the bright lamp of a projector recessed into the ceiling. Seema looked up to see Jake looking distinctly guilty. He gestured pleadingly to Mo', but Mo' waved him away.

"You should have closed the door, Seema," Mo' sneered. Seema looked away, her face losing colour.

The screen darkened. As Mo' stepped aside, the suits around the table sat up in anticipation, a few of them sniggering and glancing furtively at Seema. The screen flickered into life and on it was Seema on all fours on her bed, head buried in the pillows and behind her Jake, pumping his hips hard up against her. He turned to the camera, smiled and held his thumb up. 

Seema whimpered, and closed her eyes, almost collapsing as her legs turned to jelly. She clamped her mouth shut as her nostrils flared, and tears ran down her cheeks. She started to sob. "Sim, let's go...please," she cried, tugging at Simran's arm. She glanced pleadingly at Jake. He held his hands up, but then looked down, his face ashen. Seema winced at the whoops and shouts as they all watched the action on the screen.

"Every girl likes a bit of cock!" someone shouted.

"Even the dykes like it!" Cruel laughs erupted around the room.

"Fast forward to the bit where Jake sprays on her face - she didn't like that - fucking hilarious!" More bawdy and cruel laughter jabbed at Seema's nerves as the pack instinct took hold of the suits. Seema stared, her eyesight blurred, as the whole table erupted in howls of callous laughter, including Mo'. She felt numb, sick and wished she was dead.

"Shut up guys...Mo', for fuck's sake, turn it off," Jake shouted above the din.

"Fucking bastards!" Simran screamed, her voice choked.

Seema turned to walk out, sobbing uncontrollably. She stopped dead. In the doorway stood the receptionist, a look of shock on her face, and next to her was Simran's father.

"Dad?" Simran said quietly as she turned to catch up with Seema. She was barely audible above the cackles and whoops behind her.

Simran's father took one look at his daughter and saw the anger and hurt in her eyes. He glanced at Seema and then at the screen, still showing Jake pounding away using all the usual facial expressions, whilst Seema glanced quickly at the camera before burying her face back in the pillow.

Simran's father calmly walked into the room, towards his brother.

"Bal?" Mo' said. His sneer disappeared as Bal' approached. He quickly thumbed the remote, turning the screen off. The suits, clearly aggrieved by the interruption, ceased their cabalistic laughter. "What are you doing h~"

Before Mo' could finish his sentence, Bal' struck him hard and square on the nose, a quick and perfect jab. Mo' hollered in pain as his nose crunched and blood spilled from his nostrils, spattering down to his white shirt. Bal' skilfully rained accurate punches to Mo''s face, opening up a deep cut under his eye and bloodying his lips, pulled back in blind terror. Mo' flailed his arms in a desperate and graceless attempt to defend himself as he fell in a heap onto the floor. Bal' followed him down, fiery intent burning in his eyes as he flung his fists at his brother's face.

Simran rushed forwards to try and pull her father away, violently pushing Mo''s colleagues out of the way as they tried to break things up. In the end, Bal' stopped from pure exhaustion.

"You bloody bastard Mo'. Enough is enough!" Bal' shouted, wheezing as he gulped air down. "You stop all this bloody nonsense; otherwise I will not keep the secrets any longer. You understand? Bastard! Where are my daughter's flat keys, and her mobile? Give them to me." 

Seema looked on in shock as the situation unfolded and reached its climax. She looked at Jake. Jake rubbed his eyes, shook his head and left the room via a door at the back. 

Bal' heaved himself up off the floor. "Get out of my way," he shouted as he left Mo' on the floor. The suits scattered quickly, making a clear path for him as he strode towards the door. "Come on you two; let's leave this dirty bloody place."

Simran hugged Seema as they followed Bal' towards the lift. They brushed past the receptionist who teetered backwards on her ridiculously high heels. The lift doors opened and closed as they stood together, a complete mess; Bal' wheezed as he caught his breath, his shirt ruffled and untucked after his scrap, and Simran and Seema sobbed as they held each other tight.

#

They were all sat in Simran's flat. Simran and Bal' sat in the beanbag chairs, whilst Seema sat on the floor, limp and numb, cuddling up to Simran's legs. Seema still felt burning hot from the mortifying embarrassment. She wondered how many times the video had been watched. Had they shared it amongst themselves, she wondered, like a well-thumbed girlie magazine. She remembered the time when Jake had filmed it. She had wanted to impress him because she loved him; so she had reluctantly agreed to Jake filming them having sex. 

She shook her head. Stupid, stupid bitch, she thought, clamping her eyes shut and wishing she could go back in time and change things for the better. She also recalled the 'money shot' as Jake had called it, and the pathetic noises she had made. She hated the sensations of Jake's luke-warm seed jetting onto her face. 

"Are you two ok?" Bal' asked quietly. Simran and Seema had been silent, save for lingering sobs, and nose blowing. "Shall I make a drink?"

"No, it's ok thanks Dad," Simran whispered. She leant down to kiss Seema's head. "I can't stay here. Not after knowing he's been in here."

"Ok, ok." Bal' rubbed his chin. "Stay with me and your mother. Both of you. We have enough room...for two." He cleared his throat.

"As long as you're ok, I'll stay at Seem's," Simran said, watching her father's expression. To his credit, he didn't flinch.

"I will drive you there then, as long as you direct me," he laughed weakly and coughed. His wheezing had subsided, but his lack of fitness showed; beads of sweat still hung from his bushy eyebrows.

"Can we call 'round to see Mum first?"

"Yes of course, she'd like that." He hesitated then leaned forward. "She would like to meet you too, Seema."

Seema lifted her head and forced a smile. "Ok," she whispered. She didn't have the heart to say no. She desperately wanted to get back to her flat and cuddle up in her own bed with Simran. She could do without another nervous period as she made small talk with Simran's mother, who was bound to be unhappy at her daughter shacking up with another girl.

Simran ran her fingers through Seema's hair. "You can wait in the car my love, don't worry," she whispered as her father paid a visit to the kitchen for a well-earned drink of water.




Seema's Journey Ch. 06



'Ok chick, take the rest of the week off,' said Carol. 'Everything's in hand here. The boss is very impressed with the last couple of weeks' worth of your work, so he'll be fine with it, don't worry. I'll spin something.'

"Thanks Carol. I owe you...ok...will do. Bye Carol, and thanks." Seema popped her 'phone back in her pocket. She drew her arm across her forehead and looked about the room. She had finished cleaning the kitchen, wiping all the surfaces until they shone like new, and she had just finished hovering. Simran was busy cleaning her shower and toilet, double scrubbing to remove any trace of her uncle Mo'. A large black bin-bag full of Simran's entire collection of underwear, as well as her bedclothes, lay slumped on the floor next to the apartment door.

It was mid-morning, and they had been at it for nearly two hours. They had risen early, washed quickly and left Seema's apartment to catch an early-bird bus towards Checkley's. There, they picked up Simran's little white ford standing forlorn in the car park, and driven to her flat. Later, Simran had called her line manager at work and profusely apologised for her absence, explaining the situation in lurid detail. Seema was thankful that everything seemed to be ok. Simran's line manager must another 'Carol', thought Seema.

Seema's face was covered in a thin sheen of perspiration and she already felt the need to have a shower and wash her hair. But, they had certainly made a good job of it. Seema felt both pleased and disappointed; Simran wanted her flat to be spick and span because she wanted to be able to use it without thinking of her uncle. This meant the prospect of having Simran living with her was still a distant one; for now. Simran had broached the subject of cohabitation several times, but Seema realised that she was being cautious, not wanting to rush things. 

"Which is good. It means she's taking the prospect seriously. Patience, Seema," Seema whispered to herself. She turned towards the sounds of industrious and over-zealous scrubbing. "Babe?" she called.

The scrubbing stopped. There was a loud sniff. "Yeah?" Simran called.

"I'm just going to take the bin-bag down to the bins, ok?"

"Ok. Thanks sexy!" Simran called. The vigorous scrubbing started again.

Seema smiled, hoisted the bin bag over her shoulder and made her way down the five flights of stairs and around to the rear entrance of the block of flats. The big bins were lined up against the wall either side of the rear door. The first thing Seema spotted as she pushed and propped the door open was Simran's little white Ford in the rear car park which served all the tenants in Simran's block and the three others. Parked right next to it was a black Mercedes, polished to a shine with gleaming silver alloys sitting within low profile tyres.

Seema would have thought nothing of it; many of the tenants in these blocks were city business men and women occupying well paid positions, and consequently many of the vehicles that were parked here were big and sleek. But, the car park was empty, save for the Ford and the Mercedes. Why was it parked right next to Simran's car, Seema wondered. 

As she peered at the sleek motor, she saw movement behind the tinted glass windscreen. Suddenly, the engine was fired, reverse gear engaged and the driver floored the accelerator. The car shot backwards in a screeching wide arc before gunning forwards towards the car park exit, leaving behind an acrid cloud of burnt-rubber smoke. And then, the area was silent and empty, save for the little white Ford faithfully waiting.

Seema swallowed, recalling Jake's ominous words on the answer machine. She quickly dumped the plastic bag in a bin, shut the door and bounded back up the stairs. The door to Simran's flat was open. 

"Sim!" Seema called as she lunged through the door. The loud and rhythmic scrub-scrub of the brush came from the shower room. It stopped.

"Seem?" Simran popped her head around the shower room door before standing up. "You ok?"

Relief coursed through Seema. She immediately felt a little silly. "Yeah...yeah," she said, a lopsided grin on her face. "I've done the bags."

"Ok..." Simran smiled as she came towards Seema. "Thanks babe. I've pretty much finished in here. I think I've scrubbed the enamel off." She chuckled and stuck her bottom lip out to blow an errant wave of hair from her cheek. In the end, she had to flick at it. Her face flushed a deep red. "What?" she asked bashfully.

Seema could stare at Simran all day long. Despite the gloss of perspiration on her flushed face, despite her hastily tied hair with a pony-tail sitting at a jaunty angle and despite the strong whiff of disinfectant from her washing-up gloves, to Seema she was just perfect.

"You know...if I was a guy, right now I'd probably say something incredibly romantic about 'taking you roughly over the kitchen sink'!"

Simran laughed. "What, even though I stink!"

Seema nodded and chuckled. She turned serious. "Sim...there was a car parked right next to yours...it disappeared pretty quickly when I went out..."

"Honey, you're still spooked by what Jake said? Don't be," Simran said as she pulled her rubber gloves off. She walked through to the kitchen and started washing her hands. "What can uncle Mo' do? Really, what can he do?"

"I don't know honey, but~"

"But nothing Seem." Simran dried her hands and walked over to Seema. She draped her arms around Seema's shoulders and kissed her lips. "Don't worry love."

Seema reached behind herself and poked around in the back pocket of her jeans. Her fingers brushed against a folded piece of paper.

"Do these numbers mean anything to you?" she asked as she withdrew the crumpled and warm piece of paper. She unfolded it and gave it to Simran.

Simran uncoiled her arms from around Seema's shoulders. She peered at the numbers, mouthing them as she read. She frowned. "Nope. What are they?"

Seema took the paper, folded it and slipped it back in her pocket. "Dunno." She was about to change the subject when Simran sighed and gave her a knowing look.

"Seem...is this some sort of cryptic crap from Jake?" she asked, her head to one side. Seema glanced sideways. "Seem, stop fretting, please. Why are you taking Jake seriously? And this disc he's sent...if he's sent anything...what will be on that? Probably nothing...an album by K T bloody Tunstall?"

Seema frowned. Deja vu was a strange feeling at the best of times, but...

"Seem," Simran sighed. "I think after what happened yesterday...Uncle Mo' will stay well clear...and I think he'll actually pay Mum and Dad back, you know. I think my Dad's right. I should let him deal with it. He's obviously got something on Mo'. So ... stop worrying honey. Please."

Simran pecked Seema on the lips and turned towards her bedroom, vacuum cleaner in hand. Seema watched as she disappeared into her little boudoir. She frowned and sighed. Maybe Sim's right, she thought, and walked to the kitchen to fill a glass with water for some much needed fluid replenishment.

#

Shopping with Simran was a joyous experience. As they wandered arm in arm from shop to supermarket to shop and to more shops, Seema felt fantastic. It was companionship beyond measure; belonging, loving, happiness and a wonderful glimpse of the future with Simran. 

They had shared a big salad sub and a glass of iced tea together and were on the last leg of their shopathon. A backpack each carried the food they had purchased to replenish Simran's fridge and cupboards, new bedclothes for her bedroom, some cleaning products to replace the huge amount used to fumigate Simran's flat and a few DVDs for them to watch together at some point. Lastly, but definitely not least as far as Seema was concerned, was the underwear shopping. Simran had ended up throwing all of her undergarments away, thinking that Mo' could have blotted them all. 

"Wow, Sim...you'd look good in those," Seema giggled girlishly as Simran held up a pair of black thongs. She wasn't surprised to feel a tingle in her crotch.

Simran winked. "All for you, sexy girl! In fact, I should probably let you choose my underwear."

"Hmm...in which case, don't buy any...I want you commando all the time." Their bawdy giggles drew some looks from the prim-faced, and probably heterosexual shop assistants. Simran hastily took her huge selection of items and paid for them; a complete wardrobe of panties, bras, socks and stockings, all packed tightly in the remaining spaces of their backpacks.

Tired from their shopping expedition, they leant against one another, rocking from side to side as the bus trundled on its journey back towards Simran's flat. 

"Sim," Seema said softly.

"Mmm..."

"How do you fancy going out for a meal tonight? My treat."

Simran lifted her head from Seema's and turned to look at her. "You know, I've always wanted us to go out for a meal together. Before we...before everything came out in the open...I really wanted to suggest we go out for a meal. I always thought you'd think me a weirdo if I asked." 

Seema recalled the diary on Simran's bedside table. "You should have asked," Seema whispered, leaning forward to rub the tip of her nose on Simran's.

Simran smiled. "Ok. Cool! A meal it is. Where shall we go? And, by the way, I will pay, my treat, no argument."

"Hmm...we'll go Dutch, and no argument." Seema chuckled. "Where do you want to go honey?"

Simran sat up and suddenly became animated. "Well, I always wanted to take you to this fab restaurant I know near - "

Seema smiled and sighed blissfully as she listened to Simran talk of the restaurant she must have been thinking about whilst writing in her diary. 'I am the happiest girl on this planet,' thought Seema.

#

After the clean-up was finished to Simran's satisfaction, it was decided that the meal would be treated as a date. Their first date, to be precise. So, they would dress for each other, spend time deliberating over what to wear, what shoes would complement their chosen dresses, which lipstick with which eye shadow. And Simran would pick her date up and drive her to the restaurant. Seema felt both excited and a little nervous; a heady mixture which made her tummy flutter.

"So...," Simran said slowly as she pulled her car into the car park next to Seema's apartment block. "This means that one of us will be obliged to ask the other in for a 'coffee' which, in turn, will lead to unbelievably hot love-making..." She grinned.

"But, honey," Seema said innocently, pulling at her lower lip. "You know I don't go all the way on the first date."

Simran's enthusiastic laugh was infectious.

"I'll pick you up at seven thirty then, ok?" Simran giggled.

"Lovely," whispered Seema. 

For a moment they were happy just gazing at each other. They kissed before Seema got out. Simran tooted her horn until she was out of sight. Seema skipped up the steps and on to the path next to the newly planted trees. As she unlocked her door, she peered back towards the car park and then towards the main road across from the tended green, still smelling of fresh bark chips and recently cut grass. She laughed to herself, wondering what she was looking for exactly. There was no sign of a sleek black Mercedes.

As she pushed the door open, there was a light scraping sound on the floor as something was brushed aside. The object was a flat jiffy bag. She picked it up and as she shut her door she read the label. It was addressed to her, in Jake's scrawl. 

"Earlier than expected," she said. She half expected another message from Jake, considering his last message had been cut off. But the red LED flashed a reassuring zero. Seema's thumb hovered over the seal, ready to peel it back. But, she resisted. She decided to forget the package until tomorrow. All she wanted to do now was get ready for her first date.

With Simran, her true love.

#

Seema wallowed luxuriously in her bath. She had decided to go the whole hog; soothing patchouli bath oils in abundance, four scented candles around the edge of the bath, with the lights out, of course, and her CD Radio playing some slow and easy deep house in the background. She felt a mixture of excitement at the prospect of their date, and a slight melancholy at being apart from Simran. This spicy combination of emotions was added to by a little relish at the thought of unrushed love-making to cap off what was sure to be a fabulous evening.

Absentmindedly, Seema ran her fingers through the dense mound of her pubic hair, squeezing her buttocks together to give herself a jolt of pleasure. Once again she found herself fantasising, imagining Simran naked and about to reach her climax. Seema closed her eyes and filled her mind with the image of Simran's face, animated and flushing a deep red as she held her breath in the throes of ecstasy, climaxing to the flicking of Seema's tongue.

"You're so beautiful," whispered Seema. Her fingers had somehow found her furrow, softened by the hot water, with delicate lips splayed pink. She kept her fingers away from her clitoris, for she felt, for the first time ever, that she could climax by just thinking of her lover.

With her fingers, Seema rhythmically pressed her mound, pushing it towards her clitoris. The slight pressure this exerted on her button was all she needed. A few minutes later, her climax crept up on her, building from an almost imperceptible tug deep within her sex. Wave after wave of pleasure surged through her body as her pussy clenched and unclenched, and although it was an almost subdued climax, the duration took Seema by surprise.

#

Seema turned from side to side, examining herself in the long mirror. On her bed were three dresses that she had deliberated over for some time. Since she and Simran had been spending time at the gym, Seema had definitely lost a little weight. The black dress she was wearing proved this beyond doubt.

"Wow," she said as she brushed her hands down the sides of her dress. "Almost a size down. Cool!"

It sat just above her knees, and hugged her body. Due to its thin straps, Seema had to wear a strapless bra, which she wasn't too confident about. She leant forward, keeping an eye on her reflection. 

"Damn. I'm nearly falling out of it." She tugged at her bra and repeatedly leant over, but she still almost billowed out every time. "I'll just have to stand up straight all the time." She giggled, pleased that she was able to get into her black dress.

Choice of shoes was easy. Seema only had one pair of 'going out' shoes. They were high heeled suede leather shoes that only saw the light of day for special occasions. She hadn't even worn them for Jake.

She decided to leave her hair natural, with a slight curl at the ends, just above her shoulders. As for make-up, Seema decided to go a little further than she would normally. Just for Simran.

#

Seema sat on the arm of the sofa, tapping her feet to an unknown rhythm. She had her clutch bag and a thin black shawl draped over her arm. It was 7.25pm. She laughed at herself. Her stomach was knotting in anticipation. She was nervous. This was, after all, their first date. Seema shivered as her emotions threatened to boil over. She took her cell phone out of her clutch, thumbed her password and turned the front camera on, checking herself one last time.

Then, faintly at first, but increasing in volume as they approached her front door, there were footsteps; someone in heels, lightly clacking on the concrete. Seema jumped up, and tottered awkwardly to the door, before the knock had even sounded.

Seema opened the door wide. There was a long, electric pause.

"Wow..."

"Oh my gosh, wow..."

Seema stared, her jaw well and truly dropped. Simran stood in the doorway, wearing the blue dress that Seema had seen hanging in her wardrobe. Seema hadn't noticed it being a strapless affair, and so body hugging. Simran's gentle curves were perfectly accentuated. The delicate bones of her shoulders stood out just the right amount, and falling to within just a few inches of her moderate cleavage was a silver chain with a heart shaped locket. The subtle scent of the perfume Seema had bought her a while ago wafted towards Seema.

Seema's gaze wandered down past the hem of Simran's blue dress, over her knees and down to her shoes. These were very high heels which accentuated Simran's smooth calves. Simran had painted her toe nails a light blue. Seema's gaze wandered back up. Simran had left her hair down, but it looked so beautiful, voluminous and shiny, and on her lips, a red lipstick that drew attention to the perfect dips and curves. Seema exhaled slowly.

"Wow, Seem...," Simran said quietly. Her Adam's apple bobbed as she swallowed. "You look completely fantastic."

"Sim...," Seema croaked. "So do you, wow..." She cleared her throat. "Do you wanna come in for a coffee now?"

Simran burst out laughing, snapping both of them out of their lusty reveries. "Well, I would, but... I've gone and booked a table for two for a romantic meal with this incredibly sexy and gorgeous girl called Seema...I'm trying to get her in the sack, y'know...but don't tell her." Simran winked.

Seema giggled. She couldn't stop her roving eyes from mapping out Simran's curves. "Wow..." she whispered. She cleared her throat and forced her eyes back up. "Ok. Let's go then, sexy thing!"

#

Simran had booked a table for two at a very upmarket French eaterie just out of town. A grand gravelled driveway led up to the front of the building, which was a grandiose Georgian lump set in large grounds dotted with weeping willows. The vast spread of lawns looked immaculate, and the teeming flower beds added a rainbow of colours and scents. Through the huge bay windows at the front of the building, Seema made out the muted lighting and huge mirrors on walls that were covered with paintings and tapestries.

Simran giggled. The car park was full of sleek, status symbol cars of all shapes and sizes, some two-seater sports machines, others grand four wheel drive behemoths. Simran parked her car between two shiny red sports cars.

"A thorn between two roses," she giggled.

"Yeah, but imagine what some of these people are like," chuckled Seema. "All these cars mean the restaurant will be full of people with major insecurities."

Simran sniggered. She was silent for a few seconds before gazing at Seema. "You don't know how much this means to me babe."

"Hmm?" Seema leant across and twirled a wave of Simran's glossy hair around her finger.

"This meal. This is our first proper date. We start from here, and forget all the crap from the last few days." Simran drew Seema's hand to her lips.

"Deal," Seema whispered. "I'm going to be the happiest person here tonight. You know why?"

Simran smiled and nuzzled her cheek against Seema's palm. "Why?"

"Because I will be dining with the most beautiful girl ever."

#

The head waiter showed them to their table in the far corner. As they walked through the hushed dining area, Seema grasped Simran's hand protectively; too many diners, male diners, glanced appreciatively at Simran. However, Seema felt proud suddenly, proud at being with the most beautiful girl in the world. She smiled and held her head high. Simran leant in affectionately to Seema until they reached their table, on which sat two long candles that cast a flickering light which twinkled off the tall, fluted glasses and polished cutlery set out on the table. The table cloth was heavy white linen, starched to a good stiffness.

The waiter pulled out a chair for Simran to sit before doing the same for Seema.

"One moment please," he said before gliding away across the polished wood floor. 

"Wow Sim, this is fab," Seema whispered excitedly as she took in their surroundings. It was quiet save for the tinkle of cutlery and hushed conversations. The dining area was huge, but only half full. The ceiling was high, but the ambience was intimate. The far side of the room was given over to a small but very well stocked bar. Next to it was a grand piano, its polished lid open, reflecting the bright brass of the strings and chassis. A suave gentleman sat on the stool, engaged in a hushed conversation with an equally well dressed lady.




Seema's Journey Ch. 06



"Glad you like it honey." Simran smiled and clutched Seema's hand from across the table. 

The waiter returned with two leather-bound menus, ceremoniously giving one each to Seema and Simran. He smiled graciously at their quietly spoken thanks before gliding away again. 

"Wow," Seema whispered as she skimmed through the large menu. "Sim, this is very nice...and very expensive babe."

"I don't care how expensive it is. This is our first date, remember?" 

Soft, wistful chords sounded from the piano as the suave gentleman brushed his fingers over the black and white ivory keys. The well-dressed lady had sat down and was now listening whilst sipping red wine from her glass.

Seema and Simran held hands across the table as they read through the menu, with the odd moan of appreciation for some of the dishes. They both had hard choices to make as the menu was huge, but eventually they made their minds up and signalled the waiter. They also ordered a bottle of the house red, personally recommended by the waiter himself. Seema insisted on paying for the wine.

As they were served their first course, two other couples were shown over to their tables either side of Seema and Simran, but still a good few metres away. This was no cramped dining area. All the tables were very well spaced which offered a fair amount of privacy.

They chatted quietly throughout the first courses. Both avoided talking about Mo' or anything that had happened the previous few days. The food was divine, and they tried their best at guessing how their dishes had been cooked, which ingredients had been used to make it taste just so, swapping small forkfuls as they sampled each other's choices.

Eventually, Seema found herself swooning, gazing at Simran as she talked, eat and drank. Seema found Simran's beauty mesmerizing. Her hair looked beautiful, floating lightly about her head, a hazy halo around the edges cast from a light on the ceiling behind and beyond her head. Her lips, marked out by her red lipstick, were delectable, every subtle movement or mannerism ingraining itself on Seema's mind. She loved listening to Simran talk, finding the timbre of her voice so soothing. It was what had helped her get over her break-up with Jake. 

Deserts were served, and Seema felt a low creep over her as she realised the evening was coming to an end. Why do the good times have to go so quickly, Seema wondered. Though, she had to admit the dessert looked incredible. For a moment, they were silent as they took their first mouthfuls. A wide eyed glance at each other confirmed the quality of the desserts. Simran resumed her chat, shuffling her chair closer to the table as she got on to the subject of work.

As she was listening and taking her third mouthful, Seema suddenly felt Simran's foot on her knee. Seema smiled at her, and reached under the table to stroke Simran's foot. Simran showed no reaction, and for a confused second, Seema wondered if it was someone else's foot. Whilst Simran continued to talk matter of factly about work, keeping her expression as neutral as possible, her foot slowly slid between Seema's thighs until her toes were pressing against Seema's crotch. 

Seema cleared her throat, gave Simran a look and smiled as her face blushed. But Simran didn't stop. Somehow, her big toe found just the right spot. Seema glanced about before parting her thighs just a little more. Simran rested her heel on the seat and diddled away, driving Seema exquisitely insane as she tried to eat her dessert without moaning. Simran's chatter gradually became background noise as Seema struggled to maintain a calm and cool exterior.

"What do you think babe?" Simran asked. Her face remained perfectly impassive, save for the hint of a glint in her eye.

"Mmm, yeah...I...I," Seema stammered. She quietly put her dessert spoon down, and wiped her mouth with her napkin. "Sim, Sim," she whispered desperately, staring down at her dish. "I'm going to cum..."

"Yeah...I agree," Simran said straight-faced. This time though, Seema noticed the hint of a wicked grin forming on her face as she spooned another mouthful of the delicious dessert. Simran moved her toes faster with shocking skill.

"Nnnyyaahhhhh!!" Seema exclaimed loudly as she came, her mouth still half full with dessert. She swallowed and glanced across at the couple on the table to their right. They looked on with expressions of mild consternation. Seema thought quickly. She leant back and patted her tummy. "Wow! That dessert was good," she gasped.

The couple relaxed, smiled and lifted their glasses in salute to the chef. Simran abruptly ceased her chatter, and glanced seductively over her wine glass at Seema, a smirk curling on her lipsticked lips.

"Mmm," said Simran in a hushed but earnest voice. "Mine's good too."

#

Their meal finished and the night still relatively young, they paid the bill before asking for a pitcher of iced water and two glasses. On a trip to the washroom earlier, Simran had spied a nice patio area to the rear of the building and suggested they sit and enjoy the rest of the evening outside.

"Sim, hang on a moment," Seema said as they were about to pass by the ladies restroom. "I need the loo. Sorry!" Seema giggled girlishly. She pulled a slightly confused Simran with her into the ladies. Like the rest of the establishment, the restroom was fit for a queen, with wood panelling all around and marble topped washbasins with gleaming chrome fixtures.

Seema took a quick glance around whilst Simran frowned in puzzled amusement. Frustratingly for Seema, one of the cubicles was occupied. She shuffled her feet impatiently.

"Umm, Seem?" Simran whispered. She pointed to an empty cubicle. "If you gotta go, you gotta go..."

"Yeah, umm...wait," Seema looked about, willing a quick excuse to enter her mind. "Oh...yeah, do you think this dress fits ok?"

"Yeah, most certainly," Simran said, moving close to Seema. "It looks incredibly good on you." 

Simran made to drape her arms around Seema's shoulders, but Seema gently resisted, glancing at the occupied cubicle. 

"Are you ok Seem?" Simran whispered. Her amusement gave way to puzzled concern.

The toilet flushed, a latch clicked, and the well-dressed piano-loving middle-aged lady bustled out from the cubicle. She smiled at Seema whilst fastidiously washing her hands. She took an age to dry her hands with paper towel before leaving the restroom in a waft of expensive perfume.

"Aww, thank goodness," Seema exclaimed as the door shut. She fixed Simran with a cheeky look. "Right then, sexy young lady...payback time,"

Seema put her hands on Simran's shoulders and frog marched her to the nearest cubicle, locking the door behind her. 

"Oh...I get it now..." giggled Simran just before Seema dived towards her.

Seema pushed her against the cubicle wall. Not caring a jot about keeping lipsticked lips tidy, she fervently kissed Simran and quickly lifted her blue dress above her waist. Seema pressed her mouth to the side of Simran's neck, kissing the warm skin as her breathing became heavier. Simran gasped, laughing softly at Seema's enthusiasm as she grasped Seema's head and pulled her harder to her, ruffling her hair with one hand whilst groping Seema's bottom with the other.

Seema's breathing was ragged as she nuzzled into Simran's neck. The combination of the sweet fragrance of Simran's hair, her perfume and the taste of her lipstick was intoxicating, adding to the zest of the red wine. Seema grasped Simran's buttocks, whimpering as she realised Simran was wearing her g-string. The soft globes felt wonderful in her palms, pulsing between soft and firm as Simran ground herself against Seema. She ran a finger up and down the cleft between Simran's buttocks, tracing the soft, thin strip of material up to her waist and then back down until her finger was warmed by the tropic heat of Simran's crotch.

Simran arched her back, pushing her pussy towards Seema's eager fingers as she ruffled and grasped Seema's soft hair. Seema's full-on, sensual eagerness was entirely infectious.

Just as Seema hooked her thumbs around the ultra-thin waistband of Simran's panties, the door to the restroom opened, accompanied by a sudden crescendo of noise as a gaggle of inebriated women filed in, letting rip with noisy chatter and laughter. Seema and Simran held their breath as someone tried the door to their cubicle. Cubicle doors were closed and locked and the noisy chatter continued, louder as they deemed it necessary to talk through closed doors.

"Shhh," whispered Simran, giggling against Seema's ear and grabbing hold of her shoulders. She continued her gentle grinding.

But Seema felt far too lusty. As she continued to fervently kiss and nuzzle Simran's neck, she yanked Simran's panties down until she had easy access to her pussy. Against the background chatter, Simran let out a muted whimper as Seema's fingers stroked her sex. 

"Ohhhh, Seem," Simran whispered. She moved her feet apart, heels clacking on the polished stone floor and g-string pulling tight around her thighs. She rocked her hips to the rhythm of Seema's fingers as she stifled her long, breathy moans.

Seema's chest heaved and her heart jumped a beat as her fingers easily slipped into Simran. She placed her arm against the cubicle wall to steady herself as her lusty desire for Simran boiled over. With Simran's hot breath in her ear, she nibbled and licked at Simran's earlobe, making her shudder. Simran hugged Seema's shoulders tighter, steadying herself as she fully gave way to the pleasure.

The gaggle of women exchanged places in the cubicles, and amidst their laughter and merriment, Simran's legs wobbled as she reached the brink. She clamped her mouth shut and pushed her face against Seema neck, muffling her cries of pleasure. Seema held Simran tight, giggling quietly as she stopped Simran from falling as her legs gave way and hips jerked. For a glorious minute, Simran held on tight to Seema, whispering incoherently, her deep breaths warming Seema's shoulder. 

Seema reached down and gently pulled Simran's panties back up. She kept her hands on Simran's buttocks, kneading the soft flesh in gentle circular motions whilst kissing her earlobes.

"That'll teach you to make me cum in a restaurant, you gorgeous girl," Seema whispered.

The noisy gaggle were filing back out of the restroom, and as the door shut, nothing could be heard save for the low hum of the air-conditioning and Simran's soft moans as she recovered.

"Wow Seem," she said quietly against Seema's shoulder. "That was so horny."

"Good." Seema pulled the hem of Simran's dress back down. She let her hands linger on Simran's bottom as she smoothed out the light material. 

"Forget the iced water," Simran said, a glint returning to her eyes. "Let's get back to yours, because I wanna worship your body all night."

At that moment, from another cubicle, they heard someone loudly clearing their throat and then a toilet flushing. Seema and Simran giggled as one, hastily opened their cubicle door and made for a quick exit, slightly hindered by their high heels.

#

Back at Seema's, both girls still had fits of giggles.

"She must have heard, surely," giggled Simran.

"Oh my gosh!" Seema laughed. "So funny...and look at our lipstick!"

"Thank you Seem," Simran said after the giggle fits eventually subsided. She embraced Seema and their lips met in a familiar and soft kiss. "I've wanted to take you out for a meal since way back. Silly, but~"

"It's not silly honey." Seema ran a finger over Simran's cheek. "It was lovely, just lovely."

"So...is this where you ask me if I want to stay for coffee?" Simran blinked her eyes innocently.

Seema chuckled and reached around behind Simran, searching until her fingers found the tiny zipper to Simran's pretty blue dress. She pulled it down a few inches. "Who said anything about coffee?"

Simran's soft laugh was muffled as Seema kissed her, her tongue diving in. As they kissed they shuffled through to Seema's bedroom, flicking the light switch and kicking the door shut.

Simran pulled away from their kiss and squatted down in front of Seema. She grasped Seema's ankles, rubbing them as she peered up into her eyes. She undid the tiny buckles on the strap of Seema's high heels and gently slipped them off her feet. Then, her hands slowly brushed up Seema's legs until they reached the hem of Seema's dress. Slowly, she lifted the dress higher and higher until the material of Seema's panties crept into view.

Simran dropped her gaze, staring at the dark gusset. With a thumb, she lightly pressed the soft, slight bulge whilst she curled her fingers under the waistband beneath Seema's bellybutton. With her other hand caressing the back of Seema's thigh, she gradually pulled the front of Seema's panties down, licking her lips as Seema's dark curls came into view. Her hand moved upwards from Seema's thigh until she brushed the soft orbs encased within her black panties.

As Seema reached down to pull her dress up and over her head, Simran pulled Seema's panties down, gently coaxing her to lift her feet before casting them aside. Seema closed her eyes, issuing a long contented sigh as Simran gently pressed her face to Seema's soft triangle. Simran slowly circled her nose round and around, gently kissing Seema's hot mound.

"Mmm, Seem...," Simran whispered. Her hands snaked up Seema's smooth thighs and around to her buttocks to caress and stroke.

Seema closed her eyes, moaning softly as Simran's caresses and kisses to her pussy began to make her feel light headed. Seema hooked her arms behind her back and unhooked her strapless bra. She threw it away. Once again, she felt delightfully naughty as she moistened at the thought of giving herself to her girl.

"Mmm babe, you're still nice and slippery," whispered Simran, drawing a finger between Seema's soft lips as she gazed up at her.

"Mmm, I'm not surprised really...your blue dress has been doing it for me all night," Seema chuckled hoarsely.

Simran curled her tongue over Seema's clitoris, hidden with her moist folds. Seema jerked and giggled softly, wanting more. But Simran stood up and turned her back on Seema.

"I think I need help getting my dress off," she said seductively, glancing over her shoulder and smiling.

"Not a problem," Seema purred. She drew Simran's hair to one side and kissed the back of Simran's neck, tracing the smooth shapes of her vertebrae with her lips. Slowly, she pulled Simran's zipper down until the blue strap of her strapless bra was visible as a stark line across the dark skin of her back. Simran leant back against Seema as her dress was slowly pushed down past her bra, past her hips until it slipped down to the floor with a faint rustle.

Seema crouched down and helped Simran slip her shoes off. She gazed at Simran's bottom, the g-string hidden between her buttocks. She ran her palms up Simran's legs until they brushed against her hips. She kissed the fabulous globes, feeling their warmth on her lips. Seema could have spent the rest of the night lightly kissing Simran's nether regions, but Simran slowly walked away from her, towards the bed. She climbed on, pushing the duvet away, and shuffled forwards on her knees until she reached the centre of the mattress. The duvet slid slowly to floor. She looked over her shoulder and giggled at Seema's lustful stare. Simran leant forward until she was on all fours. She arched her back to push her bottom in the air and wiggled it seductively.

"Ohhh my..." Seema croaked. She crawled to the edge of the bed and stared. Simran's g-string barely covered the dark and inviting ring between her cheeks. Just below, she could see the thin gusset darkened with lube and framed by Simran's bush. She climbed up and palmed Simran's cheeks further apart. 

Simran giggled. "Oooo, nice!" She let herself down on to her elbows and pushed herself back against Seema's hands. She peered over her shoulder at Seema, expectant.

Seema could wait no longer. She quickly pulled Simran's panties down and pressed her lips against Simran's dark ring, kissing and circling her tongue over the delicate undulations. She was beginning to love the excitement that came when she dared to push the boundaries.

"Ah, Seem, wow," Simran gasped, rocking back and forth against Seema's tongue.

Seema couldn't believe what she was doing. It was dirty, some would say disgusting, but the sinfulness of the act, and Simran's obvious pleasure, made Seema want to do it more and more. The heat between Simran's buttocks and the soft, faint scents caused sensual explosions all over Seema's body, goose bumps tingling her skin and nipples abruptly standing erect. Seema gasped breathily as her excitement boiled over. It didn't help that Simran's cooing sounded so damn sexy.

"Wow, babe, babe," Simran whispered. "Let me do that to you."

Instead of waiting for an answer, Simran twisted around, yanking her panties down and over her feet in the process. Seema caught a quick glimpse of Simran's pussy before she twisted. Her lips were splayed and dripping wet with creamy lube.

Seeing that her actions had so turned Simran on, Seema eagerly complied. She turned around on all fours and arched her back. Simran issued a wobbled moan as she pressed her palms against Seema's buttocks. 

"Wow..."

Seema closed her eyes as her breathing became shallow in anticipation. Knowing Simran was studying her was so erotic. She could almost feel herself blossom; she imagined a nature documentary on TV and the stock, stop-frame footage of a rose, its petals splaying speedily in the sunlight. Suddenly, she felt Simran's lips between her buttocks, kissing her most private of places. To the accompaniment of their shallow moans of pleasure, Simran's tongue circled and flicked over Seema's ring. 

"Ooo, Sim, that's incredible," Seema whimpered. The sensations were fabulous, somewhere in between ticklish and plain weird. Seema pushed her bottom higher in the air, hungry for more. 

After a minute, and much to Seema's disappointment, Simran stopped, pulling Seema back up and around to face her.

"Seem...you are so gorgeous babe," Simran panted. She kissed Seema, her tongue noisily circling around Seema's. She pulled away and fell back on the bed. She spread her legs wide and stroked her crotch. "I'm so wet," she exclaimed. "Seem babe, lie down at that end of the bed, then," she swallowed hard. "Then bring yourself forward until your pussy is against mine."

Seema shuddered in anticipation as she realised what Simran wanted to do. She flopped backwards onto the mattress, shuffled forward and placed her leg over Simran's. A few more inches and her sex was pressed to Simran's in a scissor.

"I want us to come together Seem," Simran whispered, high pitched and breathy. 

"Ok babe," Seema panted as she started to grind against Simran, whimpering at the sensations. Simran grabbed hold of Seema's foot, pulling to increase the friction between their pussies.

"Ahh, ah, hang on," Simran whimpered. She repositioned herself, minutely changing her angle. Her eyes rolled upwards and she sighed huskily. "That's it..." She pulled at Seema's leg again and ground herself rhythmically.

Seema did the same, and suddenly they were both overcome with wild abandon at the new sensations. They sped their grinding motions up, and Simran moaned in time to their grinding.

"Seem, Seem, mmm," she gasped.

"Not yet babe, not yet," Seema panted. 

The mattress gently bounced in sympathy with their eager movements. Simran kissed the ball of Seema's foot, sucking her toes as she pulled at Seema's leg. 

"Ahh, honey, now, now, now," Seema cried.

"Yessss, yes, yes, yes..." 

They both bucked their hips as the synchronised climax spasmed through their bodies. Neither made any attempt at stifling their cries of pleasure. For a wonderful minute, they lay still, sucking each other's toes as they calmed. Their mingled wetness slowly dripped between them, lubricating their inner thighs.




Seema's Journey Ch. 06



"Bloody hell Sim," Seema chuckled breathlessly. "That was...like...wow."

"Mmmmm. Pretty gosh darn amazing," Simran said in a faux US drawl. She laughed, letting her head flop down on to the corner of a pillow. "Tonight has been amazing in so many ways. Phew..."

"Certainly has," Seema said. She ran her palm over her forehead and giggled as she realised her face was covered in a thick gloss of sweat. She flopped flat on the mattress, letting the endorphins induce her high. "Phew! Amazing!"

"I wish we could just make love all the time...like, literally all the time."

Seema giggled. Simran sounded a little woozy as if she were falling asleep. "Ah, yeah...imagine that babe. Sex twenty four seven."

"Mmmm," Simran chuckled. "Actually, I can imagine it." She reached down between her legs, inadvertently brushing her fingers over Seema's clitoris, causing Seema to jerk and giggle softly in surprise. "Oo, sorry hunny. I can't believe how wet I am." She studied her fingers, covered in creamy lube.

Seema gingerly drew her fingers over her sensitised wetness. "Wow. Me neither."

Simran giggled. "I can tell you now...no one has made me cum so hard Seem."

Seema chuckled at her post cum fatigue as she lifted herself up to lie next to Simran. She realised her face must have been as deeply flushed as Simran's. "I can tell you...I've never been so deeply in love before...never." Their lips met.

After a ten minute smoochy wind down, they staggered through to the bathroom, stopping to giggle and smooch some more on the way. They washed and readied for bed.

Sleep took them easily as they cuddled up under the duvet.

#

It was 10.30am. Seema sat at her kitchen table eating some toast. She flicked through the mail that had been pushed through her letterbox that morning, whilst she and Simran had overslept. Simran was still in deep sleep, wrapped in the duvet, looking gorgeous, as usual. Seema wished that she could sleep as soundly as Simran. She chuckled to herself.

She sat upright, suddenly remembering the package Jake had sent. She took her toast with her as she padded through to the lounge. The jiffy bag lay next to the 'phone, where she had left it the day before. Holding her toast between her teeth, she ran her thumbnail along the seal and pulled a CD case out. Both the case and the disc were unmarked. She frowned, picked her laptop case up and walked to the sofa.

As her laptop booted, she opened the disc tray and inserted the disc. The disc drive whirred as the welcome logo lit up on the screen. Seema's fingers blurred over the keyboard as she typed her password. As her desktop appeared, she made a mental note to change her background for a photo of Simran. She smiled at the thought of being able to gaze into Simran's eyes all day long whilst she was at work. 

She clicked an icon and opened up the CD. Seema frowned as a chill made her shiver. Along with a spreadsheet file, there were two folders, one named 'Pics', the other 'Vids'. Jake had told her to send it to the Police. Her finger hovered over the touchpad of her laptop.

"Do I really want to check what's on this disc?" Seema whispered to herself. She peered at her finger as if it could answer her question.

She double tapped the touchpad to open the 'pics' folder. A new window opened and gradually the scroll bar shrank in size. As the sheer volume of pictures became evident, Seema's chill grew colder. She opened the first picture. She inhaled sharply and put her hand to her mouth. It was a picture of a woman, legs akimbo with a thick glass vibrator inserted deeply into her bottom, stretching her anus to frightening dimensions. The picture had been badly doctored, in haste and with no finesse Seema guessed. It had been edited, with Simran's head transplanting the models'. Seema kept tapping the right arrow button. It was more of the same, different models with the same picture of Simran's head and smiling face edited in. It was like a collection of bizarre Picasso-esque pornography, with relative sizes and perspective not quite right.

Although Seema was deeply shocked, she kept clicking through the pictures. She found the images that she had discovered on Mo''s phone. There could be no doubt that all these files belonged to Mo'. There were whole streams of photographs of Simran on the beach, from the same holiday, Seema figured. Some had Simran lying down topless on the sand. Some of these were zoomed until a nipple filled the picture. Then, some were taken when she was lying on her front, with her bikini bottoms ridden up between her buttocks. Again, some were zoomed to the point where Seema could just make out the change of skin colour deeper between her cheeks.

Seema scrolled through more pictures. She was sickened as she came across pictures of women urinating, some with the exact same picture of Simran's head and face transplanted onto the image.

Although this proved Mo''s obsessions with the female form and his niece, Seema couldn't see the police throwing the book at him. 

Seema closed the folder and double tapped the 'vids' folder. There were hundreds of files, numbered rather than named. She opened the first. The media player opened full screen. It was the video of her and Jake; specifically, the point at which she had closed her eyes and recoiled as Jake sprayed his seed over her face, all in close up detail. Her face flushed with anger. She closed the player immediately, punching the touchpad with a stiffened finger.

"Bastard!" 

Seema rubbed her forehead. She slumped, her face flushing as she imagined the video being shared around the office; a cheap porn flick, good for a quick laugh and wank. She felt numb as the vivid memories of the humiliation in Mo''s office returned, along with the sickening shock of bloodied and swollen facial features as Bal' hammered into his brother. Seema shook her head and returned her gaze to her laptop screen. 

She opened the second file. The media player opened full screen again. This time, the video seemed relatively normal; a family holiday. Seema recognised Bal' and Simran's mother. The picture blurred and skewed abruptly as the camera was speedily swivelled around until it steadied on Simran, wearing denim shorts and a bikini top. Seema looked closer. Simran's hair was cut shorter, and as the camera moved about, Seema realised that Simran was with Kirran, her ex-partner. The view jerked wildly as the zoom was cranked until Simran's modest cleavage filled the screen. 

Seema shook her head in disbelief. She closed the media player window, scrolled through the video files and opened another file at random. She frowned. This seemed like footage from a security camera. It was showing the reception area of Mo''s office. Sat at the desk in front of her computer screen was the same girl Seema had seen when her and Simran had stormed Mo''s meeting room. In the corner of the media player screen was a smaller video. It must have been under the girl's desk, for Seema could see her knees, though the picture was dark and slightly grainy.

"Dirty old bugger," whispered Seema in disbelief. She was about to close the video when the receptionist stood up. She glanced about the reception area before quickly lifting her skirt and removing her underwear. She sat back down and put her feet up on the desk. In the smaller video, Seema could see a hand and fingers working desperately as the girl masturbated.

Seema forced herself to close the video. She couldn't raise a mental block quick enough to the images of Mo' pleasuring himself whilst watching his collection of videos. Seema's mouth dried as she scrolled through more videos. She clicked another at random.

The rounded 'w' shape of a bottom jumped into view as the media player opened. The woman was crouched over a European styled toilet. The lighting was sufficient for the camera to pick out everything in detail. Seema grimaced as the woman in the video urinated, golden liquid trickling, and then gushing from between her labia. The ring of the girl's anus twitched and then opened as she quickly evacuated. 

Bile rose rapidly in Seema's throat. She pressed her hand to her mouth and winced at the sickly acid taste. She swallowed but hawked again. Her eyes watered and her nostrils flared as her stomach muscles clenched and churned. She was about to run to the bathroom, but the girl in the video stood up, her ablutions complete. As she turned and bent down to retrieve a wad of tissue paper, Seema caught sight of her face. 

Seema let out a muffled yelp, slammed the laptop shut and galloped to her bathroom, her mouth full of acid vomit. Her eyes streamed with tears as her stomach heaved its contents into the toilet.

The girl in the video was Simran. 

#

"It must be a bit of a stomach bug babe," Seema muttered. She sat at the table in the kitchen. Half an hour later, she still felt sick, and the shock of her discoveries still weighed heavily on her. Try as she might, she could not get the images out of her mind. "I'll be fine honey."

"You look pale sweety," Simran said gently as she put her palm to Seema's forehead. "You're cold and clammy. Aww honey...if it's food poisoning from last night, I'll personally beat the chef up."

"I'm fine," Seema said, forcing a smile. She pulled Simran's hand from her forehead and kissed it. "Why don't you run us a bath honey?"

"Ok..." Simran said slowly. She kissed Seema lightly on the forehead, stroking her cheek. "As long as you're ok babe."

Seema nodded and gave Simran a weak, but reassuring smile.

Whilst Simran readied the bath, Seema thought things through. Maybe Jake was right. The police would surely give Mo' a hard time about these videos. Secretly filming women whilst they pleasured themselves, or whilst in the toilet, must be punishable. Seema's nausea made an unwelcome return. But underneath that was a deep and loving sympathy for Simran. Seema was filled with an overwhelming desire to protect Simran, to wrap her arms protectively around her girl and beat away anyone who wanted to wrong her.

Seema made a split second decision. She walked through to the lounge, opened her laptop and removed the disc. She placed the disk in its case and buried it deep in the side pocket of her laptop case. She would not show it to Simran. Ever. 

Seema walked through to the bathroom. Simran was naked, bent over the bath and swirling the water as the taps filled the tub. Seema put her hands on Simran's waist. Simran stood upright, brushed her hair from her face and turned to smile at Seema.

"How are you feeling babe? Are you~"

Seema pulled Simran close and wrapped her arms tightly around her, almost drawing the wind out of Simran. "I'm feeling so good...because of you...because I love you...I love you more than anything Sim...forever."

"I love you too babe," Simran chuckled. She smiled and frowned, a little taken aback with Seema's sudden outpouring of pure love. "Forever and more."

#

"Still not going to eat honey?" Simran asked as she devoured her third piece of toast. "I kind of feel bad, you know?"

"I'm not hungry babe," Seema said. She was stood next to Simran who was sat at the kitchen table.

"Are you ok? Has something spooked you?" Simran said, a light frown on her forehead. Seema shook her head. Simran continued, nudging Seema gently. "Come on you, what's up? You haven't let go of me since our bath."

Seema relaxed her arm around Simran's shoulders.

Simran pulled it back tighter. "I'm not complaining!"

"Sim babe..." Seema hesitated. Simran twisted in her seat, resting her elbow on the kitchen table. "Umm, have you been...or had to spend time at your uncle Mo''s offices."

"Hmph, yeah. I worked there for a few summers after uni'. Some pocket money, although the bastard paid a pittance." Simran popped the last bite of toast into her mouth. "Why?"

"Oh, just wondering." Seema avoided Simran's gaze. "What did you do there? Admin?"

"Ha! No," Simran exclaimed. She sucked the ends of her fingers and brushed some crumbs off the table. She chuckled. "I was a cleaner. A dogsbody. It was ok though, I guess."

"Right. Ok." 

"Yeah. It wasn't great, I suppose." Simran shrugged. "I needed the money. I wanted to help Mum and Dad pay off some debts. Mo' came to the rescue...'It makes perfect sense for you to come and work for me Simran, does it not?'...knight in shining armour. Or should I say shite in shining armour..." She snorted. "'Course, I sort of know why he wanted me there...now, anyway."

Simran fell silent. Seema swallowed, feeling mightily awkward. She told herself again; I don't want Simran finding out about the disc and its contents. 

"I always thought it was weird that the women's toilets weren't the normal ones," Simran continued, pulling herself away from her thoughts. "They were these ones you had to crouch over. And there was a massive mirror right next to it. And, there was a mirror in the actual bowl, behind you. If you looked back between your legs, you could see your bits." Simran giggled. "Kind of bizarre."

Seema tried to smile, but it wavered. Her face flushed as she made the connections in her mind. Desperate to hide her reaction, she pulled Simran close and kissed the top of her head. 

Simran wrapped her arms around Seema's waist. "I'm so happy Seem." She nuzzled into Seema's cleavage. "I've been thinking...about us living together-"

Seema perked up, her heart jumping a beat.

"-we pretty much think about each other all the time, and we both want it. I was trying to be cautious, not rush things, but..." Simran looked up and gazed into Seema's eyes. "What do you think honey?"

"You know I want us to live together babe," Seema said quickly. "I thought you wanted to wait...until all this..." Seema flapped a hand. "Until all this crap was over."

"Well, it is over babe. I think it's best I let Dad sort his brother out." 

Simran's dark, sparkling eyes peered into Seema's. Seema well and truly melted. Her face relaxed into a beaming smile. "Ok. Shall we live here for a bit before finding another place?" Seema's tummy churned, this time with excitement.

"Yeah," Simran nodded happily. "I do love my place, but after all that's happened...and it's quite small."

"It's a deal then." Seema whispered. She kissed Simran's soft lips.

"Yeah...great! I'll need to let my landlord know. I'll have to give him notice. I can do that today!"

Seema was filled with joy at Simran's obvious eagerness.

"But," Simran continued. "Before I go..." She stood up, pulled Seema's robe apart and snaked her hands around Seema's hips. "I want to make love to you..."

#

Seema sat on the sofa, frustrated. She knew she should be feeling a beautifully warm excitement at the prospect of living with her love. And she was; butterflies were fluttering around in her stomach at the thought of sharing everything with Simran. But her elation was annoyingly tempered by the disc and the problem of what to do next. She wanted to send the disc to the police, but she didn't want Simran to find out about its contents. The police would obviously need to question Simran. She desperately wanted to talk to someone about it, but who? Carol? No. Though Seema knew Carol would support her, what could she suggest? 

Seema gasped in frustration. Her thoughts turned to Jake. What was the significance of the numbers? She wondered what he was about to tell her before his call was cut short. She considered calling him, but vanquished that thought immediately as her pride welled up.

She stood up and walked to the kitchen. Simran had only been gone ten minutes, yet Seema was already pining. She felt a little guilt, too. Simran had climaxed quickly, but Seema knew that she herself would have problems. Her mind was elsewhere. Rather than worrying Simran by stopping and telling her that she couldn't cum, Seema faked her own orgasm. If it wasn't for Simran's satisfied smile and kiss, Seema would have felt awful.

Seema drank a glass of milk, and as she swilled her glass under the tap, she realised her only option was to ring Bal', Simran's father. Maybe he would know what to do with the disc. And, maybe, he would know what the numbers meant.

#

There was no answer at Simran's parents. Maybe Bal' was sorting out his brother at that very moment. Seema guiltily supressed a smile at that thought. She hoped violence wouldn't be involved. The ring of her 'phone made her jump.

"Hello?" Seema expected to hear Bal''s voice.

'Seema, it's Jake-"

Seema knew exactly who it was. Her grip tightened around the receiver.

'-don't put the 'phone down, please. I need you to listen, ok?'

Seema took a deep, steadying breath. "Ok."

'Ok,' Jake swallowed. 'Did you get the package, and my message?'

"Mhmm."

'Right...have you sent it to the police?'

"No, not yet."

'Shit, Seems, you need to. I wasn't sure whether my message was cut off...or whether you cut it off~'

"Jake...please get on with it. What do those numbers mean?"

'Did you see what was on the disc?'

Seema raised her voice. "Yes Jake, I did. Thanks for sharing the video of me and you with all your mates. I'm really pleased you did that. And yes, the other pictures and videos were both vile and disturbing. Now, why did you send the disc to me and what do those bloody numbers mean?" 

'I sent it to you because I'm trying to help-'

Seema snorted.

'-really, I'm trying to help...ammunition...' Jake was silent for a second. 'I'm not sure what the numbers are, but he uses the same numbers as the code to his safe, his logon...fuck knows, knowing him...maybe it's a crime number, it's obviously important to him...the police will know what to do with them and the pictures and videos.'

Seema frowned. A crime number? Had Mo' been caught out before? If he had, then the evidence on the disc would definitely mean big trouble for him.

'Umm, Seema? You still there?'

"Yes. Has Mo' been caught out before?"

'I don't know. Look, Seema, you need to send that disc off as soon as possible. I hacked Mo''s lappy because I wanted to delete the video of you and me. But I found all the other videos, and the pictures...so, snap decision, I made a copy, figuring you could use it against him.' Jake took a deep breath. 'In the meantime, he's out to get you~'

"Oh Jake," Seema snorted. "What could he possibly do? This isn't a TV thriller~'

'Seema!' Jake's raised voice made Seema jump. He exhaled slowly and continued calmly. 'Have you seen any cars following you?'

"Oh, for goodness sake...no, I think I would've noticed..." She stopped. "Oh...the black car outside Sim's place..."

'A black car?' Jake's voice betrayed concern. 'Can you see a car outside yours?'

Seema dithered. Jake's genuine concern was beginning to worry her, and Simran was at her flat on her own. What if she was in danger? 

'Seems! Is there are a car outside yours?'

"Wait, wait," Seema said quickly. She opened her front door and taking her 'phone with her, started to walk the short path towards the steps down to the car park. As she neared the steps, she stopped dead. Parked in the space near the foot of the steps was the same sleek car that had been parked right next to Simran's little white ford earlier that day. She turned on the spot. "Shit! Jake...it's the same car that was outside Sims'."

Seema's pulse hammered in her ears. She ran back inside and slammed the door shut.

'Ok, ok...Ahh, fuck, Seems, that's why I wanted you to take the disc to the police as soon as possible...it's the spreadsheet that they'll be~"

"Why the hell couldn't you have sent it, or bloody hand delivered it?" Seema blurted in a panic.

Jake sighed impatiently. 'Ah, fuck Seems, think about it. I've been roughed up. Mo''s got security cameras everywhere...as you now know. He knows I've hacked his lappy. I had to get a friend to post the disc to you. Mo''s got some nasty fuckers who do his dirty work... and they've threatened all kinds of retribution if I let anything slip about Mo'...starting with the promise of the video of you and me going viral on the net.'