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Unexpected Gift

By: masterslave00



My Dearest,

It is summer and campus is full of female students in clothes so revealing that they seem hardly dressed. It is nearly end of academic year and I am imagining that you are one of our students.

I am sitting in my office, relaxing after day full of lectures. Someone knocks on my door. "Come in", I call and you enter the room. You are one of our brightest students, but very inexperienced with computers and I helped you couple of times throughout the year. Today, you were handing in your final assignment and just this morning, I was giving you advice about your data.

"Sit down, Lena," I offer you chair. You sit down and I quickly admire your body. You wear shorts see through white blouse that barely covers your beautiful, firm breasts. Then I admire flat belly with sparkling belly button piercing between the blouse and black miniskirt. The skirt is so short that it barely covers white panties. My look ends at your long perfectly tanned legs. I have many times admired them and wondered how it would be to get between them.

"Professor, I came to thank you for all the help you gave me during the year. Without it, I would probably fail," you say and hand me small box. I cannot believe it. This is first time one of our students came to thank me for anything. Most of the time they complain about anything and everything. You get off the chair, make two fast steps towards me and give me the sweetest and most passionate kiss. Then you sit on my lap and whisper, "there are just chocolates in that box and I have a feeling you would rather something else" and pull the blouse over your head. Your beautiful breasts with dark areolas and hard nipples pop out in front of my eyes. I don't think twice and start immediately, feeling the nipples getting even harder. Your hand is struggling with my trousers and soon is in my underwear. While kissing your nipples, I pull your skirt over your had too. You are sitting on my thighs in miniature panties only. My hand touches your panties and they are completely wet.

You stand up, quickly walk to the door, turn the key and walk back to me. "Please take off your trousers, please." Watching you pulling your panties down, showing me your glistening pussy, I take my trousers together with my underwear off. You stand above me and then start lowering yourself on my hard dick. You let sight of pain out and whisper, "your dick is much bigger than my boyfriend's." Then you sit down on it and take the whole length into your pussy, like if you were doing it every day. 

Holding your hips, I start kissing and biting your nipples. You start riding up and down my hard dick -- at first just slowly, but increasing tempo gradually. I reach your clitoris with one of my hands and start massaging it. You start moaning immediately. I feel your cunt spamming on my dick and soon you tremble in coming orgasm. You are sitting tightly on my dick and hand now, just massaging my dick with your tight cunt. Your orgasm is not too strong, but it takes long time. Then you start riding me again. This time you ride unbelievably fast, virtually jumping on my dick. I am letting myself enjoying my pleasure and soon I am spraying my load deep into your cunt. With that you orgasm again and I am surprised with strength of it. You bite me to the neck and your perfectly red painted fingernails are leaving deep bloody scratches on my back. You are twitching and squeezing my dick with your tight cunt as if it was a citron, taking remaining cum out of me.

I am recovering from my own orgasm. You give me passionate kiss. "Thank you professor. That was amazing. My boyfriend never manages to stay hard long enough to bring me to my second, real orgasm. He usually comes after my first, week one... Now I finally know what I was missing without masturbating. I hope I don't owe you anything..." You get up from my again hard dick and slowly start dressing up.

"No, you do not owe me anything and you never did. More likely, I am owing you now..." I answer. You smile at me and leave my office. I collect myself and then take the box you gave me initially to my hands. I open it to find exquisite chocolate bonbons that must have cost you a fortune. Taking the box, I walk around the department and offer to my colleagues. Returning to my office with nearly empty box, I find folded piece of paper at the bottom. Unfolding it, I read your neat handwriting.

"Professor, I have been accepted to do a PhD, so I'll be around for another four years. I hope you will help me with computers again, Lena." The letter ends with what I presume is your mobile phone number. I smile to myself and wonder if I will have to ring you or if you will come to me...

Unexpected Gifts



1 -- MARCUS

Marcus poured a stream of bubbling water over his dinner – a bowl of Ramen noodles. Not exactly the ideal Valentine's dinner. Shelley was out of town performing. Holidays were always the busiest time for her band. He had spent Christmas and New Years alone as well. He didn't mind all that much. They always had a belated celebration when she came back.

Marcus hadn't yet decided what he would get her for Valentine's. His gifts always paled in comparison to hers. At Christmas the leather purse he had given her had been almost insulting beside the hand crafted Makonde statue she had given him. He collected African art and the piece she had found him was extremely rare.

The doorbell let out a shrill peal. "Who the hell is that," he muttered as he left the dining table. He hoped it wasn't a relative. One of the down sides of inheriting his father's estate was that every few days some uncle or distant cousin came by looking for a handout. 

Sighing, he unlatched the front door and opened it to find... well definitely not a relative. There was a stripper in a nurse's uniform standing on his door. Marcus didn't know for sure she was a stripper but he was pretty sure she was one because, for one thing, the nurse's uniform was vinyl and the woman's huge breasts were barely being held in by her top. Her body was also too perfect. Only actresses, models and strippers could justify the hours in the gym daily necessary to maintain such a figure.

"Are you Marcus Gaines?"

"Yes."

"Good," she said smiling. "I'm your Valentine's gift."

"Ex...excuse me," he stuttered.

"It's cold out here," she said.

He stepped aside and she walked in. He noticed her flesh was covered in goosebumps and she was shivering. Why didn't she just wear a coat?

He closed the door and found her looking around his hallway. "Very nice place; it's huge. You live hear alone?"

"No, my girlfriend..."

"Oh right, silly me, I knew that. Shelley, right?"

"Ya. How do you know her?"

"She's the one who hired me, said she felt guilty about always leaving you alone."

"She hired you to strip for me!" 

"I'm a lot more than a strippogram Marcus," she replied. "She paid me nine hundred which means I can do anything you want. I can give you a blowjob, I can tie you up and give you a spanking if that's what you're into, we can fuck on the floor, on the couch, in your bed, you can fuck me up the ass, I can wear a strap on and fuck you up the ass, you can cum in my hair, in my face..." 

She ran her fingertips against Marcus's arm and he jerked away. "There has been a mistake. Shelley would never hire a hooker.'

"I'm an escort."

This didn't make any sense. Shelley was an extroverted, adventurous person in every sphere of her life except sexuality. She wasn't even comfortable trying new sexual positions. Whenever Swingers or people in open relationships were mentioned she always said that they clearly didn't understand love. As for the idea of Marcus and another woman? Shelley couldn't even stand him looking at another woman. Her getting him a strip-o-gram would have been hard to believe. This was impossible. "Are you sure you have the right address?"

"You're Marcus. Your girlfriend's Shelley. You have any neighbours with the same names?"

She had a point.

"Come on," she urged. "I know you want me. Your eyes have been locked on my tits since I came in."

"Sorry," Marcus yelped, averting his gaze.

"I don't mind. I'm here to fuck you remember. Why don't you unbutton my top and take a closer look. I have freakishly long nipples. Fun to suck, you know. If you have whipped cream and strawberries we could really get into the Valentine's theme."

"Wait a second," Marcus said and darted to the phone. He had to get to the bottom of this. 

2 – SHELLEY

Shelley was exhausted. Her body ached. A seven hour bus ride followed by five hours straight of singing, dancing and playing had made her ache in places she had not even known were part of her body. The other band members had invited her to go out partying and she had declined. All she wanted was a nice long bath and then some much needed sleep. 

She unlocked the door of her hotel room and 

immediately started ripping off her clothes on the way to the bathroom. They were drenched with sweat and stunk of cigarette and marijuana smoke. That was the worst thing about rock concerts; they left you feeling like something that could be found stuck to the sole of someone's shoe.

Shelley had just immersed herself in the tub when the doorbell rang.

"Shit," she muttered. She pushed open the door to the bathroom.

"Who is it?"

The doorbell rang again.

"Could you come back tomorrow. I..."

It rang again.

Angry, Shelley got out of the tub, wrapped herself in a towel and walked to the door. She opened it. Standing outside her door was a tall, gorgeous hunk of black man in a tuxedo. Well, in most of a tuxedo. He was wearing the pants, jacket and bowtie but no shirt. The jacket hung open over a bare, muscular chest.

"Hello Shelley," he said. "I'm your Valentine's gift."

"What?"

"Courtesy of the hotel. The concierge was extremely happy with the band's performance and he has therefore provided for a little something extra. There's no need for any of you to be alone on this of all nights."

Shelley was offended at first then thought about it. While on tour promoters had often arranged for strippers or prostitutes for all the men in the band. It was actually rather progressive of the hotel's concierge to send her a gigolo. She looked at the man's perfect body and cherubic face. Why didn't this kind of thing happen to her a few years ago?

"I'm sorry. I have a partner."

"I have a partner too," the man replied. "And I was worried we had nothing in common."

Shelley laughed. She couldn't help it.

3 – MARCUS

"She's not picking up," said Marcus, hanging up.

"So we're back to square one," said the woman. 

"Well..."

"Look," she said. "I've already been paid. We don't have to have sex. Just don't make me go back out into the cold. We can just hang out, watch television or something. I'm freezing. The main reason I'd like to be having sex right now is it would warm me up. Can I use your shower?"

"No problem."

She smiled and marched off to the bathroom. Marcus heard the rustle of her clothes coming off and then the sound of the water turning on. He couldn't help but picture it. She'd left the door open and he knew if he just inched forward a little he would be able to see her. It was ridiculous. A few moments ago he'd refused to have sex with her, now he was fantasizing about spying on her.

She let out a purr which sent a shiver through Marcus. "It feels so good. You should come and join me."

I should. Even if it doesn't make any sense, Shelley did sent her to me. Unless... Maybe it's a test? That's even more ridiculous. "What's your name?" He called out.

"Caramelle," she replied. Clearly an alias. Not even hippies would name their child 'Caramelle'.

Marcus adjusted himself in his jeans. He had been rock hard since she had first appeared at the door. Any of my friends in this situation would be in there fucking her against the shower 

wall, he thought to himself.

"Marcus," Caramelle called out. "Could you come here for a second?"

"Why?"

"Just come. Don't be afraid."

He got up and walked to the bathroom. Caramelle's naked body was obscured by steam and the glass door to the shower. That somehow made it worse. He could see the outline of her form and his imagination was working overtime envisioning rivulets of water trickling down her supple flesh. He didn't have to imagine it long because Caremelle pushed open the glass door. Her body was even more divine than he had expected. She had the kind of figure that would inspire sculptors and painters to create masterpieces. Her breasts were definitely fake which Marcus usually didn't like, but right now all he wanted to do was charge her and bury his face in them.

"Pass me a towel," she said. 

Marcus didn't move. He was entranced. He took her in: shoulders, breasts, belly, waist, hips. His eyes lingered on the dark hair between her legs. 

Caramelle turned the faucet off and leaned back against the wall. Slowly she brought her fingers to her breasts and she held them gently and squeezed. She moaned and Marcus, impossibly, became even harder. Caramelle's right hand then began to wander very slowly down her belly and over her pubis. She spread apart her vaginal lips. As she did this, her eyes were locked on Marcus's, daring him to act. She bit her bottom lip as she began to rub her clitoris in small circles.

Marcus forced himself to move. He grabbed a towel and passed it to her.

Her eyes flickered with disappointment and she accepted the towel from his trembling hands.

"Thanks, she said."

"You're welcome."

He left the bathroom at a run and Caramelle dried herself and followed. He turned to find her dressed in one of Shelley's bathrobes. It was amazing the change one piece of clothing caused. In the vinyl nurse's outfit Shelley had looked like a porn star and consequently had found himself thinking of her only sexually. His mind had been clouded by thoughts of sucking her tits, fingering her and fucking her. Now, with a thick robe around her, Marcus found himself noticing tiny details about her for the first time. Her face was a ghostly ivory and there was a small scar above her left eye and another across her cheek. Both had been concealed by makeup. Her face was all sharp angles and planes and she had a malnourished emaciation that was just the other side of thin. He wondered when she had last eaten. He also wondered what the story was behind each of those scars and he wondered what had led her to a life of prostitution.

Caramelle lay back and stretched like a cat, letting out another throaty purr.

Marcus sat on the bed beside her and found himself wishing he knew her real name. 

"So despite my efforts to the contrary," she said. "It doesn't look like there's going to be any sex on this bed tonight."

Despite my efforts to the contrary. She didn't talk like a hooker. Not that Marcus had any idea what a hooker talked like anyway. Other than what he had seen in films, his exposure to the seedier elements of Montreal were minimal. He'd frequented a few strip clubs and once dashed into (then dashed straight out when the receptionist spoke to him) an erotic massage parlour.

"Sorry," he said.

"Why are you apologising? I'm getting free money for doing nothing. I could try to entertain you in other ways. You know, when I'm not selling my body to random strangers, I'm trying to make it as a stand up comedian. Want to hear a joke?"

"All right," Marcus said. Might as well give in to the surreal fever-dream he was in.

"Whatever happened to David Blane, he was supposed to be the next big thing, but he disappeared."

Marcus waited patiently for the joke.

"Get it, he disappeared. He's a magician."

Marcus laughed.

"I think I'm the one who's meant to fake laugh at your bad jokes. So much for my budding career as a comedian."

"How... How did you start... you know?"

"The million dollar question eh."

"Sorry, you don't have to answer, I was just..." Marcus broke off. Caramelle's hand was on his crotch and she was stroking. He started to move away and she grabbed his penis hard. He winced in pain.

With her other hand she unzipped him. "Don't move. I'm going to answer your question."

Marcus stopped resisting. It had been a battle that was getting harder and harder over the last forty minutes. Now, with her fingers around his member it was too much to resist. She pulled his trousers down to his waist and tentatively, touched his penis. Now that she was holding him directly, she stopped stroking. She pulled herself up into a crawling position and placed her lips directly above his penis. She spoke softly, her hot breath caressing his blood engorged tip.

"When I was sixteen I was raped by six men."

"What?" Marcus gasped.

"Or," Caramelle continued. "When I was sixteen my father had a drinking problem and got the family into debt with the wrong kind of people. The kind of people who don't forgive." She brought her lips closer to the tip of his penis. "Or I am a nymphomaniac. I am a rabid slut who needs sex like a crack addict needs a fix, like a starving man needs food." She was so close to his penis now he wanted to jerk forward and shove his dick into her mouth. She held him down firmly, letting the torture continue.

"Better yet," she whispered. "I am an addict. I sell my body for money to buy drugs. My dealer is also my pimp. He ties me up and fucks me up the ass while feeding a syringe into my thigh. He fills me with semen and heroin at the same time."

Caramelle gave Marcus's tip a single lick and then she pulled away. "I am a feminist academic researching the lives lived by whores and strumpets for my doctoral thesis. Or it's a trap, someone is videotaping us. After you cum, you'll be blackmailed. Or I'm in a cult, we believe that sex is the only way to communicate with God. Our ceremonies are orgies and our prayers are orgasms."

Caramelle began to stroke him. Her fingers pumped up and down while she continued speaking, her voice almost incantatory. "When I was sixteen I was raped by six men. Oh sorry, said that one already. Maybe I read a book. That's what it was. I read a book about a woman who sold herself for money and I wanted to be her. Reading about her life made me wet. It made me touch myself and shove anything I could find into my cunt. I'm possessed. That's what it is. It's a demon. When I sleep I dream of creatures with fangs drinking my blood. Or let's say I lost a bet. Strip poker taken to the next level."

Caramelle bit into the soft flesh just beneath the mushroom head of his penis. Marcus screamed. 

"Don't worry. I'll kiss it better." She kissed his tip once. Then again. She laid another kiss half an inch lower, then a little lower than that. They were small butterfly kisses that both teased and tortured. He moaned. Her mouth opened wide and she took him in deep like a sword swallower. Then, as quickly she had taken him in, she withdrew and was staring up at him, her expression carnal. She stroked him with both hands, moving both up and down and in clockwise and anticlockwise twists. "Or maybe It's because of Shelley." The mention of Shelley shattered the fantasy but somehow, at the same time, intensified the pleasure. Caramelle continued. 

"I was a school pal of Shelley and I was in love with her. We had a short sapphic fling. She licked my cunt every night and her fingers explored me but she didn't love me. To here it was just playing around. She broke my heart and I hate her and and I hate you, the man she now loves." Caramelle spat on Marcus' dick and her fingers immediately gathered and distributed the saliva all around his shaft. She jerked him faster, frantically. "I'm going to fuck you and make you mine. Do you want that? Do you want me to ride you and take you into me? Do you want to come? I can make you come right now? If you do something for me. Tell me you are going to leave her for me. Say it. Say it or I'll stop."

She continued stroking him but when he said nothing she let go and started moving away. 

"I'll leave her," he begged. "I love you. I'll do anything you want,"

Caramelle's head shot forward and she took him into her mouth again. This time she sucked. Her head bobbed back and forth. 

"I'll do anything you want. I'll do anything you want," he breathed as she sucked him. She was gentle at first and then she sucked him hard, but only for a few seconds. Then she was gentle again. Now she was using both her hands, her lips and her tongue to overwhelm him with sensation. She was relentless and he groaned as he felt his release built. Amidst the rising tide of ecstasy as he came in her mouth, a tiny part of his mind accused him viciously. You're cheating on her. Shelley would never do this to you.

4 – SHELLEY

Kano. That was his name, and he moved like a dancer.

That's how she would describe making love to him if she ever had to, but she never would. This was her secret. She was far away from home and no-one would ever find out. This was hers and hers alone. Her secret dance.

This is how it went: Kano held her close and firm; his hips swayed and thrusted like a seasoned Samba dancer at Carnival; he moved with her. His hips and arms guided her motions and they undulated to a primal rhythm. Kano's fingers caressed her back, her buttocks, her thighs. His eyes drank her in. He had insisted they keep the lights on. She had resisted. He had insisted. Thank God he had. The wild desire she saw in his pupils ignited her. She felt more than beautiful. She felt like a Goddess and she basked in his gaze.

Within her, his penis was a catalyst. It was as though she had never truly had sex, made love, fucked or whatever other name was used to describe it. This was different. With Marcus it was always a routine. Kiss, fumble, kiss, undress, a little rubbing, a little more kissing, some licking, some kissing and then in out, in out, in out, and it was over. Sometimes it was fun, sometimes it was not. It was never like this.

Liquid fire coursed through Shelley's veins and her gasps were more than just expression's of pleasure, they were desperate, she felt as though she was drowning... or burning on a pyre like a witch in Salem Massachussets. Surely so much pleasure was a sin. 

"More," she wanted to yell. "Fuck me harder," she wanted to demand but she could not shape the words. Somehow he seemed to hear her anyway. Kano's pace increased and she her legs wrapped around his waist pulled him closer. Her nails dug into his buttocks drawing blood. 

Before entering her Kano had worn a condom and for some reason she wished she hadn't. She wanted him inside her naked and pure. She wanted to feel his eruption inside her when he came. She began to tremble and he held her firmly; he slowed his motions to a gentle sway. Her trembles broadened into convulsions and he smiled as she began to orgasm. The pleasure hit her in waves so intense she expected to faint. Her chest heaved and she grabbed hold of the sides of his face and kissed him. Their tongues melted together and Kano continued moving inside her slowly. 

"Thank you," she said, and as she spoke she lost control. She was crying.

Kano stopped moving, worried.

"No..." she begged. "Don't stop. Please don't stop."

His hips began to move again and Shelley rolled him over so she was on top. Her body was shaking as she sobbed but her tears were tears of joy – no more than that. They were tears of release and tears of escape. 

She began to rock back and forth. "Kano," she whispered. "You are a song. You are a dream."

Making love to him was a dance and it had only just begun.

5 – MARCUS

Caramelle continued to suck Marcus after he had come. She cleaned the sperm off him with her tongue, lapping every drop ravenously. 

"That was amazing," Marcus sighed.

"Yes it was, wasn't it," said a woman's voice. 

Marcus started when he realised it hadn't been Caramelle who spoke. She was still sucking him.

The door separating the balcony and the bedroom opened. A fat woman dressed in a crisp grey business suit stepped in. In her hand she carried a video camera.

"You can stop Louise." After a few final licks, Caramelle/Louise got up. A few splashes of sperm had got on Shelley's bathrobe and Caramelle/Louise wiped them off with the quilt.

"Here's the situation Mr. Gaines." said the fat woman. "I have some Oscar worthy footage of you getting a thorough treatment from the very talented Louise. One of a kind isn't she."

Marcus stared at Louise. She wasn't looking at him. She was staring at the floor and she was as still as a statue.




Unexpected Gifts



Author's Note: Well, I've done it once again and submitted a contest entry just barely in time. Please -- read, enjoy, vote and send feedback! And of course, happy holidays to all!

=========================

(C) 2009 All Rights Reserved

"You sure you don't need me, Sir? I don't mind sticking around."

"No, Don. Go on, enjoy a few days off before we get swamped."

"All right, then. Thanks."

Don left his boss, who was in remarkably good spirits considering how close Christmas was and how busy they would get in a week. However, he decided, if the boss said take some time, Don wasn't one to argue. He knew he'd be working his ass off soon enough, so he'd get while the getting was good.

After speaking to the boss, he had a quick chat with Rudy, his supervisor, letting him know he'd be out but back in time for the big rush. Rudy nodded, immersed in schedules and rubbing his cold-reddened nose. Don kept a distance; Rudy seemed to get colds on a regular basis and Don had no wish to catch it.

On his way back to his room, he saw Halley, one of his co-workers. "Hey, Don!" she chirped.

"Hey, yourself. You taking some time off, too?" he asked as she fell into step beside him.

She nodded and ran a hand through long brown hair. "You bet. Never look a gift horse in the mouth, that's my motto."

Don pulled a face and shook his own shorter, darker brown hair. "I never look at horses at all, thanks, gift or not." Halley laughed, a bright, tinkling sound.

"So, what are you going to do?" she asked.

"Oh, a bit of a busman's holiday, I guess. My cousin runs a limo service and he's short a couple of drivers. I told him I'd help out."

Halley frowned. "That doesn't sound like much fun."

"Actually, it is. You meet some really neat people, and at this time of year they're generally in a good mood." Don was looking forward to it. "We might even have time for a hockey game," he said.

Halley rolled her eyes. "Men. Is no season safe from sports?"

"Oh, come on." He poked her in the ribs. "We'll be watching the Wild. Their uniforms are very Christmas-y, lots of dark green."

"Well, that makes all the difference," she said dryly.

"Look, Halley, I've got to run." He gave her a quick peck on the cheek. "I'll be back on the twenty-fourth in plenty of time, I promise."

"I'm not covering for you if you're late," she warned.

He held up two fingers, then crossed his heart. "I swear," he said. 

"Good." She snorted. "If I have to look at someone's ass all night, I'd prefer yours to Val's. Idiot thinks he's God's gift to women."

"Hey, a number of women agree." They both turned to see Val walking towards them. His dark, curly hair hung loose around a nearly angelic face. Angelic, one might say, except for the devilish smile and glint in his eyes. He stepped up and threw an arm around Halley's shoulder. "Come on, gorgeous. Open a present early."

"Buzz off, lover boy," Halley said, removing his arm as though it might carry something contagious. "I've got stuff to do."

Val took her rejection in stride. "Your loss, pretty lady."

Halley shook her head. "Enjoy your time off, guys. Bye, Don." She waved as she headed off to her apartment.

"How long are you going to keep hitting on her?" Don asked. Val didn't answer for a minute, watching Halley climb the steps. He sighed.

"Such a nice tail on that one," he said wistfully. Don rolled his eyes and smacked him on the back of the head. Val glared and rubbed at the spot. "Hey, I was just appreciating the view."

"Workplace romances are trouble," Don reminded him. "Remember when Dash tried it with her? It was cold as ice around here for months after that broke up. The boss had to put them in different departments, for crying out loud."

"Vicki and I managed," Val pointed out. Don gaped.

"You and Vicki? When was that?"

Val grinned widely. "See, I told you we managed."

"Forget it," Don said. "I don't want to know any more. I'm going to get my stuff, take some time off and rest up before the big day. You should do the same."

"I will, but your definition of 'rest' is different than mine." Val wiggled his eyebrows.

"I'm sure it is." Don didn't rise to the bait. "I'll see you on the twenty-fourth."

"So when's the last time you met someone?" Val asked. Val had his reputation as a Lothario, but Don suspected he was a romantic at heart. Don shrugged, not in a terribly romantic frame of mind.

"I don't know. Doesn't matter. I'm not looking right now."

"Oh, please." Val rolled his eyes. "Everyone's always looking. That's the problem; it tends to happen when you're not looking."

"Great, thanks.. Now, to quote the inimitable Halley: buzz off."

x-x-x-x

Dec 21

Jeanette stood on the sidewalk at the train station. It was freezing and she pushed her gloved hands further into her pockets. Where was he? Ben had said he'd be here to pick her up and she'd been waiting over half an hour. She was willing to cut him some slack for traffic and the weather, but he should have at least called her by now. She debated calling him, but it meant taking her gloves off and she decided she could wait a little longer.

Sighing, she moved to sit on the bench, dragging her suitcase with her. Sitting was cold, but so was standing and her legs were tired. She would stay on the bench until she couldn't take it, then she'd stand again, although she hoped by then Ben would have arrived.

She stared idly around. The station was decorated for Christmas with lots of sparkling angels and wreaths, and she could see a Christmas tree in the little square down and across from the station. Jeanette always enjoyed Christmas, although her spirits were a little down this year.

Ben had refused to visit her family, saying that his mother would simply come apart at the seams. That had sent up a warning flag, but since her parents had planned a few months ago to take a cruise over the holiday, Jeanette decided to visit him. She wasn't crazy over the idea of being on a boat on all that open water; she was sure she was overreacting, but couldn't help it. Visiting Ben seemed like a good idea. She'd have company over the holiday and get to meet some of his family, then a couple of days later she'd head to her sister's and finish the holiday week with them.

"I wish he'd show up so I could get this started," she said to herself. She pulled her hat down more tightly over her blonde hair and wished she'd brought earmuffs.

Just as she was about to give in and call, her phone rang. By the time she'd pulled her hands out of her pockets, her glove off and retrieved the phone, it had stopped ringing. Cursing under her breath, she clicked to see a text message from Ben. I wish he wouldn't text while he's driving, she thought. Then she read the message and wished he'd text himself into a tree.

Sorry. Cant do it. Met someone. Take care.

Jeanette stared at the words on the tiny screen. Met someone? Take care? My God, he'd broken up with her via text message and had barely used complete sentences. I've been dumped with a tweet, she thought numbly.

Then her situation caught up with her. She was alone in a strange city, four days before Christmas, with no hotel reservations and no car. She covered her face with her hands and took a deep breath.

Okay, I can deal with this. One thing at a time, she told herself. She could get a cab and find a hotel, that wasn't really a problem. It wasn't how she thought she'd be spending the night, but it could have been worse. She'd have to charge the room, which wasn't what she wanted after all the Christmas shopping she'd done, but as a friend of hers had once advised, she wouldn't worry if she could solve it with money. Sighing, she stood and reached over for her purse.

Her hand fell on the empty bench. She whirled around, staring at the bench and the sidewalk underneath it. It was blank—no sign of her purse. Her heart started to race and she forced herself to take deep breaths until she was calm again. When had she last seen her bag? She thought back, couldn't remember.

Don't panic. Don't panic. She had her debit card, her driver's license and her cell phone. She could work something out. She looked around for a cab but only saw a black Town Car. Grabbing her suitcase, she pulled it behind her as she walked towards the station entrance, hoping they had a phone book or brochure with some useful phone numbers.

x-x-x-x

Don watched the pretty blonde go through a startling range of emotions in a short period of time. First there was boredom, then a bit of anger and anxiety after she checked her phone, then he thought he saw a bit of panic. She recovered nicely, though, only covering her face once. It was a cute face, he thought.

Sitting in the car, he idly tapped his fingers on the steering wheel to whatever Christmas music was on the radio. He preferred the classics, but didn't mind hearing jazzed up versions of old favorites, either. Keeps the season fresh, he thought. 

Since not much was going on, and his passenger was late, he amused himself by keeping an eye on the blonde woman. He thought about offering to let her sit in the warm car, but wasn't sure how that would be received. Val could have pulled that off with no problem, but Don didn't have the savoir faire of his friend. She'd probably call the cops on him.

He watched as she walked over to the station door and tugged, stumbling when the door didn't give as expected. She tried once more before studying a flyer taped on the glass and then she let her head fall back, exposing a pale, smooth neck that Don suddenly found himself itching to nuzzle. Surprised at himself, he shook the image from his mind but kept watching.

She stomped her foot in frustration and grabbed her bag, this time forgoing the wheels and just picking it up as she walked around the corner. Don guessed she was looking for either a phone or a phone number. Pity, he thought, that pay phones were rare and phone books even more so. 

He should go to her, he decided. She looked lost, and maybe he could help. He hated to see anyone so upset this close to Christmas. Besides, his cousin Joel had just texted him to say that the job was canceled, as the passenger's flight had been delayed until the next day. Don turned off the car and stepped out into the cold, then started off after the woman.

x-x-x-x

Jeanette was furious because if she wasn't, she'd be hysterical. She hated, hated being in unfamiliar places all alone. It was almost a phobia and anger kept her panic at bay. There wasn't a phone book to be had, and the station had already closed for the night. There were no cabs and she had no idea who to call. Her sister was two states away, although Jeanette realized that might be her best option -- call Isabella and ask her to find Minnesota cab companies on the computer and give her the numbers. She kicked herself for blocking web access on her cell phone. You are so cheap, she berated herself.

"Excuse me." Her head snapped around and she saw someone walking towards her. "You look a little lost."

The man stepped into the light and despite the knot in her stomach, Jeanette couldn't help but notice the short, wavy dark hair and green eyes. "Can I help you?" His voice was low and sent chills through her. That's the weather, she corrected herself.

"I hope so," she said. "I...I was supposed to meet someone but they couldn't make it. My purse is missing. I need to find a place to stay to get myself together. Do you have the number for a cab company?" She decided there was no reason to explain exactly what had happened; pathetic was not the impression she cared to make.

"Someone stood you up?" the man said in disbelief. Her bruised ego felt a little better for the tone of his comment, but she tried to brush past it.

"Something like that," she said. "Anyway, I just need a cab, if you could get me a number. Or is there a hotel nearby?"

He shook his head. "No, the nearest hotel's about five miles. I can give you a ride to one, though." He jerked his head back at the black car, then smiled. "It's warmer than it is out here."

I'll bet it is, thought Jeanette, who had become decidedly less cold while she stood there talking to him. Then common sense kicked in; she was not getting into a car with a complete stranger who just happened to show up when she needed help and offer a solution.

"No, thanks, a number would be fine," she said. A gust of wind blew threw and she shivered, shoving her hands in her pockets again.

"Please," the man said, holding out a hand. "There aren't many cabs around here, and I'm with a chauffeur service. My job for tonight just fell through." He brought his and back and held it out again with a business card. "I'm Don Nedierre; my cousin owns the business.

Warily, Jeanette took the card. Places to Go, it said and provided an address and phone number.

"Go on, call," he invited her. "My cousin's name is Joel Bristow." 

"All right." She doubted anyone would go to the trouble of inventing a business and then staffing the phone line while they harassed women at train stations, but she decided to call. A few minutes later, having spoken to one Joel Bristow and confirmed that he had a fleet of five vehicles, one of which had gone to the train station to pick up a customer who had cancelled, she turned to Don.

"Okay, let's go."

x-x-x-x

Don took her bag and placed it in the trunk, then opened the front door for her. He thought she might be more comfortable up there, and the heater would be right at her feet, which he was sure must be freezing. She slid in, buckled the seat belt, then hugged herself while he turned up the heat.

"You ready to go?" he asked. She nodded and he pulled out away from the curb. "I'm sorry," he said, "but I didn't get your name."

"Jeanette," she said, and he liked the way it sounded. A little old fashioned, but it fit her. "Although right now I'll just call myself an idiot."

"Why's that?" he glanced over while they sat at a stoplight. She shook her head, then took off her hat and Don caught his breath at the blonde curls that fell to her shoulders.

"Never mind. I feel stupid even thinking about it." She sounded a bit angry and he wondered why.

"I'm sure you weren't stupid," he said. "Oh, would you like some hot chocolate? There's some in the thermos there." He gestured at the bag by her feet.

"Thanks, that would be great." She carefully took out the thermos and waited for another stoplight before taking the lid off and using it as a cup. Don's heart skipped a beat or two as she closed her eyes and sighed over the drink. "This is so much better than coffee." She looked over and smiled, and he missed another beat.

"Yeah," he said when his brain worked again. "I'm not a big coffee fan. I do have a big sweet tooth, though." He stopped himself before he could add something awful like, and I'd like to taste a bit of you. Val would have had a smooth line—he had a line for any situation—but Don decided silence was the better part of valor.

"Do you think there'll be any vacancies?" she asked, taking another sip. "I thought I'd be staying with a friend so I didn't make any reservations."

"I'm sure we'll find something," he assured her, and wondered where the 'we' had come from.

"I hope so." She lifted a hand to her mouth and nibbled a fingernail. Don resisted the urge to cover her hand with his and gently push it away. "I can't believe I lost my purse. Someone's probably buying out Macy's as we speak."

"That stuff is usually covered," Don said. "They may not have time to do much, and maybe they just wanted the cash."

"Maybe." She sounded doubtful. "This is the second time this has happened to me." She sighed. "It took days to clear it up. I almost cut up all my cards after that. I guess I should have."

They said little else as Don drove out to a small strip of hotels. He could see Jeanette's face fall a little bit as each one they passed said No Vacancy. He felt badly for her and tried to think of a solution. 

x-x-x-x

Jeanette tried to keep herself together, but every red sign they passed chipped away at her resolve. The lump that had been sitting in her stomach since receiving Ben's text had gradually risen until it was in her throat. 

She'd been such an idiot, she thought. How could she have made these plans? The red flags that had started waving when Ben had described his mother's separation anxiety should have been enough of a warning. At that point, she probably could have arranged to stay with her sister, or hell, made plans to stay home. Christmas on her own wouldn't have been so bad; she could have had a nice meal out, a movie, a long bath, anything.

As it stood, she was in a strange place, cold, with only a few changes of clothes and very limited funds. Not to mention a distinct lack of hotel rooms.

"Hey, would you like to get something to eat?" She turned, a little startled, to see Don looking at her with concern. 

"Um, yeah." She tried to clear the lump in her throat with a cough. "That would be nice, thank you. I didn't get dinner." The bravado borne of anger had long since fled; panic at the idea of being alone in a strange place was rising. She tried to ignore it.

"Don't worry," Don said. He reached over to pat her hand in reassurance. "We'll figure something out."

We? Jeanette wondered. She said nothing, though, as Don turned around and drove a few miles back to a friendly-looking diner. There were kitschy Christmas decorations in the windows and lights strung around the windows and doors. It made her smile despite everything.

Don held the door for her and she thanked him, wondering when the last time someone had made such a small but nice gesture for her. He winked at her thanks and she bit her lip when her stomach flipped just a little.

They sat in a booth and she was glad to shrug out of her coat, which she felt like she'd been wearing for days. She ran a hand through her hair and realized she must look a mess, and excused herself to the rest room after they ordered. Once inside, she realized she couldn't even fix her hair—her hairbrush was in her missing purse. That insignificant item threatened to break her control, and she laughed roughly at herself. You've lost your purse, your credit cards and your boyfriend, but a hairbrush brings you down. Get a grip.

Resolutely, she splashed some water on her face, dried it with paper towels, and did the best she could with her hair by combing her fingers through it. Resigned to the fact that nothing helped, she went back to the table and Don.

There was hot tea and soup at her place and she sat down, gratefully wrapping her hands around the cup. It almost burned but she refused to move her hands away. 

"So, Jeanette," said Don, sipping at his own mug of tea, "how did you get here?"

"I..." She dropped her head, staring intently at the tea. "I told you. I was an idiot." The temptation to tell him everything was strong, but surely he didn't want to hear it. 

"No, you weren't." He put his cup down, reached over and put his hands around hers. She drew in a breath; his hands felt warmer than the tea. "Come on, tell me."

"That's sweet," she said, not moving her hands. She managed to meet his eyes and the warmth in them almost made her tell him. "Really, it is. But you don't need a stranger dumping her troubles on you before Christmas. You've done more than enough."

"If you can't help someone at Christmas, then when can you?" he asked. "Please."

"All right."

x-x-x-x

Don listened as Jeanette told him her story in a quiet voice. How the boyfriend who was supposed to meet her not only stood her up, but done it in less than ten words. The missing purse and full hotels were just the icing on the cake. 




Unexpected Gifts



"So," she said, wiping at her eyes, "there you have it. I'm stuck here with no place to stay and no way to get home. I don't have a credit card to charge a plane ticket to, even if I could get a flight. The prices are probably astronomical and the flights are probably booked anyway. I was going to rent a car to drive to my sister's, and now I can't even do that."

Don couldn't help but think that the tears made her blue eyes shine in the light. He was going to help her, that much was certain. He didn't know quite how yet, but there was no way he was leaving her on her own. He'd drive her to her sister's if he had to. Spending more time with her, and only her, was the most appealing idea he'd had in a while.

"Come back with me," he said. "My cousin has a spare room." He didn't mention that he'd been using it until now. "They won't mind."

"I couldn't," she said, shaking her head. "They must be busy, and I'm a complete stranger..."

"They won't care," he said. "Please, Jeanette. I just can't leave you here." She was silent as she considered it. "Just for tonight," he continued. "Tomorrow we'll try again for a hotel, and you'll need to contact people about your credit cards. It'd be so much easier to do that from a house than...wherever you would be."

"Okay," she said. 

"Good." He smiled and was glad when she smiled back. He nudged her soup bowl towards her. "Go on, eat up. Then we'll head back to my cousin's. You'll like him, and his wife." He drank some more coffee. "Do you like dogs?"

x-x-x-x

Jeanette couldn't believe how much better she felt. Don had driven back to town, and she'd met his cousin, Joel, and Joel's wife, Gloria. They—and their dog—had welcomed her like a old friend and her worries had dissipated almost immediately. In what seemed like a matter of minutes, they had her settled in a guest room, then invited her down to chat while they sat in front of the fire before bed.

She'd almost forgotten how she'd come to be there until Joel and Gloria had said good night and left her alone in the cozy room. Then everything came rushing back. She tried to force it away again, reminding herself that she was safe for the night, that she could deal with everything else in the morning, and that when she was tired every problem seemed ten times more difficult than it really was.

"Hey, there." She looked up at Don's voice, not realizing he'd come back. "You okay?" He sat on the floor next to her, leaning back against the couch and stretching his legs out in front of him. While she debated her answer, she noted that his legs were long and muscular; she wondered if he was a runner. In fact, she realized, his whole body looked quite strong and fit. She let herself imagine how it would feel if he pulled her back against him, then blushed and looked away.

"I'm all right," she said. "I'm just very tired."

She heard him shift and then jerked up when his legs slid around either side of her and she felt his hands on her shoulders. "It's okay," he murmured. "Just relax." He began to massage the tired muscles in her arms and back, and she did.

"Where do you live?" she asked, her eyes drooping.

"Farther north," he said. "I'm staying here for a bit to help Joel out while he's short-staffed." His body, she noted, was warm, like his hands had been. So was hers, and not from the fire. It was tempting to lean back against him, but for now she liked the feel of his hands on her shoulders so she stayed where she was. 

"Where's your room?" She'd only seen the one spare.

"I'm giving it up to the stranger who came in from the cold," he teased. "I'll stay down here tonight."

"Oh." She turned to face him, biting her lip again. It was all Don could do not to kiss her and nibble that lip himself. "I didn't mean to put you out. I can stay here."

He shook his head. "It's fine. It's no problem. I've stayed on it before. It's pretty comfortable as couches go." She started to protest again, but he put a finger over her lips. Her eyes widened as a shock went through her at the touch. "Honestly, Jeanette. I don't mind."

She turned away and tried to think of something to say. "You're all being so kind. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it."

"You're welcome," he said. He brushed her hair to one side and grinned to himself when he saw her shiver. Unable to resist, he leaned forward and pressed his lips to the crook of her neck. Jeanette gasped but didn't move. "Sorry," he said softly, lips brushing her skin. "I've wanted to do that ever since I saw you at the train station."

"You...you did?" Her voice was slightly shaky. Unexpected things just seemed to keep happening to her today.

"Mm-hmm." He sat up and nudged her until she was turned enough to face him. "Then I wanted to do this." 

Her neck hadn't been enough. Once he kissed her there, he knew how soft her skin was and how she smelled like apples and cinnamon. He had to kiss her lips, to taste her for himself, and so he did.

Jeanette didn't resist the kiss but was too startled to respond at first. Don didn't demand anything; he let his lips rest against hers, waiting for her reaction. For a moment, she just floated in the feelings raised by being in his arms and having him so close. Then he rubbed his lips against hers and her body woke up.

Her hands slid up his arms and wound around his neck as she kissed him back. He made a pleased sound when she did and moved one of his hands to run down her side. She gasped when he brushed a ticklish spot on her hip and he took advantage to slip his tongue between her lips. She let him, giving a small sigh of both surprise and pleasure. He tasted so good, she thought. Her hands instinctively went to his hair and he growled softly when she pulled her fingers through the dark curls.

"You feel good," he said, stopping for a moment to catch his breath. He held her tightly to him, loving the feel of her body against his. He knew he should stop; he hadn't even meant for things to go this far, but every thing she did made him desire her a little more. 

"You...you feel good, too," Jeanette said. Her head was spinning. If it spun any more, she'd be offering him the spare room again, with her in it. She'd never been kissed like that before, never felt like that. She wanted to do it again.

We shouldn't, she thought, but made no move to leave. It felt too good, too right, to be in his arms. But she didn't know him, and he didn't know her. So much had happened and she knew she wasn't thinking clearly, no matter how loudly her body demanded more contact. It was hard to ignore that, though.

"Can I kiss you again?" Don asked.

"Yes." Did I mean to say that? she wondered, and then didn't care as his lips captured hers again. 

x-x-x-x

I should stop. I can't stop. Don didn't realize he'd shifted to lean back on the floor until Jeanette gave a surprised gasp as she moved to keep her balance. She didn't try to push away, though, so he just wrapped an arm around her shoulder to keep her steady. He turned on his side and pulled her against him, cupping her face with his hand.

She felt so good. He stroked her face, then her hair, then raised himself up slightly on his arm so that he could kiss his way down her neck again. She shivered once more when he reached the curve of her shoulder and he flicked his tongue over it, smiling to himself when she jumped. As he ran a hand down he side, exploring the curves of her breast, her waist, her hips, he found himself wishing desperately they were in a room. He wanted so much more, but she deserved better than a stranger's hard floor.

With an effort, he pulled himself away reluctantly, groaning when her hand gripped his waist and tried to pull him back.

"Jeanette," he said, panting, "we need to stop. I want to do this, but not here."

"What?" She was breathing hard, too, and her eyes were glassy. His words penetrated and she blushed. "Oh. Oh, my God. I didn't..."

"Shhh." Don held her to him and hugged her tightly. "You didn't do anything wrong." He moved to look at her. "I hope I didn't, either."

"No." She shook her head. "You did everything right."

He couldn't help but smile. "That's good to know."

"I guess I'd better get to bed." She looked down, suddenly shy.

"Yes, you'd better." He pressed his lips to her forehead. "I wish I could come with you."

She raised her eyes to his again, shyness gone. "I wish you could, too."

Don traced a finger over her cheek. "Good night, Jeanette."

x-x-x-x

Dec 22

Jeanette woke gradually, taking a few minutes to orient herself when she saw the unfamiliar room. She sighed when everything came back—the missing purse, the freezing wait for Ben who wasn't going to show, Don coming up to her. She smiled as more memories followed. The futile search for a hotel, the return to Joel's house, the unexpected but extremely welcome kisses in front of the fire...

She stretched as she remembered. Don had said he wanted more, but she would have been quite content to make love right there on the rug, warmed by the fire. Get a grip, she scolded herself and her cheeks flushed. What's wrong with you? When did you start day dreaming about sleeping with strange men on the floor?

Since I met him, she decided as she pushed the covers back and got out of bed. She heard voices and shuffling noises from elsewhere in the house and smiled. It was good to hear the sounds of family; she'd always loved to lay in bed on weekends and holidays when she was younger and listen to her parents chatting, her brother and sister arguing over the television, even the dog pleading for breakfast. Don was lucky to have family like this, she thought.

The guest room had its own bath, and she gratefully stepped into a shower. Her spirits were remarkably good, she thought, for someone who had to start calling credit card companies and pray that no one had used her cards. She wondered if she could have the cards sent somewhere so that she could pick them up, or at least get a number that she could use to secure plane tickets or a rental car.

That plan didn't have the same appeal as it had the previous day, and it was because of Don. She sighed as she dressed and towel-dried her hair. How could everything be so mixed up? Okay, just her—she was mixed up. No wonder, she supposed, after being dumped via text and left to her own devices in a strange place. Still, though...things didn't seem mixed up at all when she thought about Don.

Laughter and the smell of bacon drifted upstairs, making her stomach growl in response. Jeanette shook her head; one thing at a time, and the first thing was breakfast.

x-x-x-x

"Good morning," said Gloria with a smile. Their dog, Shep, barked a greeting and wagged his tail.

"Good morning," said Jeanette with a smile. "This smells great."

Gloria gestured at a stack of plates on the counter. "Help yourself. I cook but I don't serve."

Jeanette laughed. "Fair enough." She took two pancakes, an egg and two strips of bacon. Normally she ate a light breakfast, but she felt ravenous. Gloria set a cup of coffee in front of her and sat across the small table with her own plate.

"How did you sleep?" she asked.

"Wonderfully." Jeanette said with feeling. "Before Don suggested coming here, I was afraid I'd end up sleeping on a park bench. I really can't thank you enough."

Gloria waved a hand dismissively. "Don't worry about it. Don's a sweetheart. I wouldn't have expected anything less from him."

"Is he gone already?" Jeanette asked, hoping she didn't sound as anxious as she felt.

"He'll be back soon. He said he wanted to check something before it got too late." 

The women chatted about family and Christmas, and after they cleared their plates, Gloria led her to the den. "Use the phone in here," she said, "it's quieter." She gave Jeanette's arm a friendly squeeze. "I'm so sorry about all that. If you need anything, you let me know."

"Thanks." 

A shout and some happy barks from the other room brought them both back out to the kitchen. Don was there, brushing the snow out of his hair. He looked up and Jeanette couldn't help the warm feeling in her stomach when he smiled at her. 

"You haven't called anyone yet, have you?" he asked.

She shook her head. "I was about to."

"Good. Here." He held out a bag. Jeanette gaped when she realized it was her pocketbook.

"What? How...?" She took it, handling it as though it might break. "Where did you find it?"

He shrugged. "I went back to the train station this morning, thought maybe you'd left it there. I was right; it was sitting under the bench."

"Under the bench?" She blinked. "But I looked...I thought I looked everywhere..."

"Well, I can go put it back, if you want," he joked.

"Don't you dare," Gloria admonished. Then she smiled and kissed him on the cheek. "You're a sweetheart, Don." She went upstairs.

Jeanette stood there, hugging the purse to her as though afraid it would disappear. "You're amazing."

He shrugged, his cheeks a little pink. "Not really. Just had a hunch this morning and thought I'd follow up on it."

"I can't tell you how much I appreciate it," she said, wondering why she felt like crying. "You've just saved...my life."

Don laughed and came over, pulled her into a hug. "I doubt that. Saved you some inconvenience, I hope."

"Definitely." She let him pull her back to the kitchen where he got himself some juice. 

She knew she had to check her purse to make sure nothing was missing, but she didn't want to. If she found everything, she'd be able to make arrangements to leave. Although that had been all she wanted twenty-four hours ago, now it was the last thing that appealed to her. 

"Oh, I also listened to some news this morning," Don said, studying her face. "Looks like the weather isn't improving, so I wouldn't get your hopes up about catching a plane in the next day or so. I'd imagine the hotels will stay full, too, since it won't be easy to get out."

"Okay." Jeanette sat down and tried to process everything. Don's bad news was about the best thing she could have heard.

"You don't look too upset," he noted as he sat down. Dare he hope, he wondered, that she would agree to stay around for the next couple of days? Not that she had much choice, but he worried she'd need or want to leave. He'd be able to get back to work; that was never a problem, no matter the weather. He still had today and tomorrow and part of Christmas Eve before he needed to leave, though, and spending them with Jeanette was the best thing he could think of.

"I'm not," she admitted, then laughed as the tension left her with the admission. "I was just thinking that as much as I wanted to go yesterday, I want to stay now."

"You do?" He grinned. "So I didn't scare you off?"

She shook her head. "No, you certainly didn't scare me off." She looked him in the eye. "You did quite the opposite." Jeanette lowered her head and made a pretense of searching through her purse as she tried to think of what to say next. She sighed with relief when Joel came in and saved her the trouble.

"Morning, Jeanette. Morning, Don." Joel stomped the snow off his boots and shook out his scarf. 

"Good morning," said Jeanette. "How bad is it out there?"

"Oh, not really so bad," said Joel as he dove for the coffee. "They've got the streets reasonably clear, but flights are delayed left and right." He gestured at Don with his cup. "I can probably handle everything myself, today. Most everything's been canceled since people either can't leave or won't get here."

Don smiled to himself; although he felt badly for the stresses on holiday travelers, he was glad to have his day suddenly free.

Joel downed his coffee and got another cup. "Excuse me, I need to go straighten out the logs and schedule. Jeanette, you're welcome to stay as long as you need to."

"Thanks, Joel." He waved a hand as he went to the den and through to a smaller room behind it that he used as an office.

"Well, since I don't have to work and you don't have to cancel credit cards, what do you say to going out and getting some Christmas cheer?" Don asked. "Need to buy any presents?"

Jeanette shook her head. "No, I bought everything early and shipped it to my sister so I wouldn't have to take things on the plane or drag them with me in the car. I'd like to go out, though."

Don stood up and put his cup in the sink, then held a hand out for her. She took it and squeaked a laugh when he pulled her into a hug. "Bundle up," he said with a kiss.

x-x-x-x

Dec 22

Jeanette snuggled against him as they walked along the sidewalk, enjoying his warmth and the kisses he dropped every so often on the top of her head. She wondered how it was possible to feel so good with someone she hardly knew, then decided to put it up to Christmas and forget about it. Whatever they had wouldn't last long—she knew she'd have to arrange to leave at some point—so she would enjoy it while she could.

They debated restaurants as they walked along, not sure what they were in the mood for. As they stopped outside one and studied the menu, she felt Don tense.

"What's wrong?" She turned and looked at him curiously.

"Ah, nothing. Just...just don't like the menu." His face looked green.

Puzzled, Jeanette turned back and studied the offerings, not seeing anything too out of the ordinary. There was a venison stew, which one didn't often see, but that was hardly very exotic, especially in a hunting state like Minnesota. She shrugged.

"That's fine, they look crowded anyway." She put a hand on his arm. "Don, you okay?"

"What? Yeah." He shook his head and took her hand as they resumed their walk. "Sorry. The venison caught me off guard." He shuddered and hoped she didn't notice.

Jeanette nodded in agreement and scrunched up her nose. He couldn't help but laugh. "I couldn't eat that, either," she said. "It would be like having Bambi for dinner." Don was glad when she spied a Japanese restaurant.

"Perfect," he said as he opened the door. "It wouldn't be Christmas without sushi."

They settled in and warmed up over tea and sake, making idle small talk for a bit, then going comfortably silent as they waited for the food. Don studied her, wondering what she was thinking, and wishing for the first time in a long time that he didn't have to work this year. Curiosity got the better of him.

"What are you thinking over there, blue eyes?" 

She dropped her eyes and smiled shyly. "I was wondering if I could impose on you all and stay for Christmas." She sighed and looked up; the lights caught her eyes, made them sparkle, and Don knew he was in love. "I shouldn't, I know, but despite how it all started, this is the nicest time I've had in ages."

"I'm sure they wouldn't mind." His stomach twisted with what he had to say next. "I won't be here for the day, though. I need to work."

She looked at him, startled. "Work? On Christmas?" Her heart sank at the news, then she ordered herself to get a grip. She had known this couldn't last, hadn't she? All she could do was enjoy it. She would consider this time as her own special Christmas present. 

Don didn't notice her internal struggle since his took most of his attention. "Yes, I'm sorry. I was trying to find a way to tell you." He swallowed nervously. "I've been having the best time since I met you, Jeanette. I wish I didn't have to work, but I can't get out of it." He tried a smile. "The boss is great about letting us have some time off in advance, but we need to be there on the big day."

"What do you do?" she asked, nonplussed.

"I'm in the delivery business," he said.

"Delivery?" She blinked. "You deliver on holidays?"

"We...specialize, you could say." He touched her hand, wishing she knew how badly he didn't want to go. "I have tomorrow, though, and part of Christmas Eve. I'd like to spend that time with you."




Unexpected Gifts



Jeanette forced back her tears. "I'd like that."

x-x-x-x

Dec 23

"Listen, you're sure you don't mind?" Gloria asked as she gathered some last-minute necessities. "I'm sorry to go like this, but my mom's alone and really needs the help." Gloria's brother had called half an hour ago to let her know that their mother had slipped down the steps the day before and injured—but, thankfully, not broken—her leg. A neighbor was with her now, and her brother was working on getting there, but Gloria was the closest and so she was packing in a hurry. Joel had been able to turn the business over to his second-in-command, Sandra, since the schedule was so light.

"Of course not," Jeanette assured her. She reached over and handed Gloria the toiletries bag that sat in plain view on the counter, but which Gloria had looked right over in her haste. "I just...are you sure you don't mind me being here? I could try to find a hotel."

"Don't be silly." Gloria took the bag with a grateful nod and began filling it. "Where are you going to find a room today? Your flight isn't until tomorrow, right?"

"Right." Jeanette had managed to secure a flight out on Christmas Eve. She'd cringed at adding the charges to her card but there was no other option. She'd decided to go home instead of to Isabella's; once she'd had a chance to absorb everything that had happened, she could only go home. She'd be missing Don, she knew it, and didn't want to cast a pall over Christmas. 

"Are you okay?" Gloria stopped in her packing to look at Jeanette. "You seem upset about something. I don't mean to pry, but you can tell me." She came over and squeezed Jeanette's hand. "Really, are you okay?"

"I'm fine, I'm just..." She sighed. "You'll think I'm crazy. I think I might be a little crazy."

"Go ahead, tell me," Gloria said. "I'm so frazzled I'll forget anyway."

"Okay." Jeanette took a deep breath. "I think I'm in love with Don." She tried to see if she felt any different after saying it out loud. No. She was as confused as she had been since she'd realized it when she went to bed the night before.

"Oh." Gloria was startled, then smiled. "Well, I can understand that. He's wonderful, he really is." She winked. "I tell Joel he's lucky I met him first."

Jeanette tried to smile back. "I guess I am, too, then."

Moving back to her suitcase, Gloria asked, "So, what's the problem, then?"

Jeanette sighed and flopped on the bed. It wasn't just Don, she realized. She'd come to care about them all. She felt like a teenager exchanging secrets with her best friend. "What's not the problem? I don't know where he lives, and I live on the East Coast. I don't know anything about him except he's in the 'delivery' business, whatever the hell that is. He doesn't know anything about me."

"Sounds romantic." Gloria fluttered her eyelashes and dramatically put one hand to her heart, the other to her forehead. "The lovely lady, stranded days before Christmas in a strange town. The handsome stranger who comes to her aid and steals her heart." Jeanette was helpless with laughter by the time she finished.

"It's my life, not a Hallmark movie," she managed through her giggles. She settled down and sighed. "It's true, though; you nailed it. What am I going to do?"

Gloria sighed herself and sat down next to her. "I don't know. I'm not really much of a romantic. I think you should tell him, because what if you don't?" She popped up again to check her suitcase. "What are you going to do today?"

"Don said he's taking me to a hockey game." Jeanette shook her head. "It ought to be fun, really. I haven't been to a game in a while. Then I don't know. Hockey hardly seems like the proper lead-in to a profession of love."

Gloria made a face. "'Profession of love?' Good God, Jeanette, who says that anymore?" She went over and patted Jeanette's shoulder. "Just tell him. No professing anything. And, hey, it's Christmas after all."

Jeanette rolled her eyes. "So now I have to trust in the magic of the season?"

"No, just in Don." Gloria zipped the suitcase. "He's a bit more in touch with the season than most people."

x-x-x-x

Dec 23

"So, you'll be here on time, right?" Halley said over the phone. Don had snuck down to the family room to call her. He had to tell someone.

"I will, I will," he promised. "I just...oh, man, Halley, Val was right."

She gave a short laugh. "Val? About what?"

He sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "Val said you meet someone when you least expect it. He was right." Halley was silent for a moment.

"Tell me."

He did. He told her everything about meeting Jeanette, helping her, and the rest. "Halley, I can't help it, but—I'm I love with her."

"Well, of course you are." Halley rolled her eyes. Men.

"But what do I do?" He got up and started pacing. "Where do I find her after I go back? How could this possibly work?"

"One thing at a time," Halley said. "First, how does she feel?"

"I don't know." He took a deep breath. "I'm going to tell her tonight. I can't not tell her. But then she's leaving tomorrow, too. She'll be gone."

"Are you dumb?" Halley asked. "You found her purse, right? Did you look at her license, find an address?"

"I did. Well, I got her name from a credit card that was loose inside. I felt funny going through her purse."

"Don," she said, "come on, snap out of it. Remember who you work for."

Don was silent and Halley rolled her eyes once more. Even over the phone she could hear the wheels spinning, pieces falling into place. 

"But," he said, "we're not really supposed to do that, are we? I mean, that's personal."

"Not addresses," Halley said. "Those are public record. Give me her name and I'll see what I can find out."

"Hey, you're right. Her name is Jeanette MacDonald." She could hear the immediate change in his mood, from anxiety to happiness. "Halley, you're a genius."

"I know. Now, get on with things and get back here. If Val comes on to me one more time, I may have to break his leg, and that won't be good for any of us." Don laughed, said good-bye and disconnected.

Halley was chuckling to herself as she put her phone away, then stopped with a gasp when she felt hands on her arms. She looked up, narrowed her eyes. "Valentine, damn it. Don't do that." When he didn't respond, she tried again. "Val?" She thought perhaps she'd irritated him by using his full name.

"Do you really dislike me that much?" His dark eyes were more serious than she'd ever seen them.

"What?" She was startled. How much had he heard? "No, of course not. I just...look, you want to be the playboy, that's fine. I just don't want to be part of that, okay? Friends is fine, but..." She trailed off. Why was he making her nervous? Val never made her nervous. Annoyed, maybe, but not nervous. Then again, he'd never looked at her like that before, either.

Val stared at her a moment and she braced, irrationally, for a kiss. Then he dropped his hands and she let out a breath she hadn't known she'd been holding.

"Come to the loft later, Halley. I want to show you something."

"The loft? Like the loft in the barn?" It was Val's turn to roll his eyes. 

"No, like the one in the kitchen. Of course in the barn, Halley. Seven o'clock, okay?" He strode off, leaving a very confused Halley behind him.

x-x-x-x

Dec 23

Despite Jeanette's wishes, the day seemed to pass by in a whirlwind. They went out for some last-minute shopping when she insisted she needed to pick gifts up for Gloria and Joel. Don helped her shop and even wrap when they got back to the house. Sometimes she thought she caught him looking at her with his deep green eyes, but he'd look away when she turned and so she wasn't quite sure.

There was no good time to tell him. Later, later, she kept reassuring herself. Later turned into after lunch, then after shopping, then after dinner, then after the hockey game—which was a lot of fun, she had to admit.

Now, she told herself. You have to tell him now. 

They were back at the house and where Jeanette had come to feel at home in a ridiculously short time. Don went over to the fire and asked her to pour some wine into the glasses he'd placed on a table earlier. There was no light aside from the fire and the Christmas tree. Jeanette thought it was the most romantic Christmas setting she'd ever seen.

She poured the wine, all the while marveling at the contented feeling of doing something so domestic. He really is a handsome stranger, she thought as she stole covert glances at him while pouring the wine. I just wish he was my handsome stranger. When he looked up and the fire danced in his eyes, her heart pounded. 

"Come here," he said. He moved to the couch and patted the seat beside him. She nodded and picked up the glasses, handing both to him so she could sit without worry about spilling. When she took hers back, they tapped the glasses together in a silent toast and sipped. Don took the glasses and set them on an end table, then wrapped his arms around her shoulders and pulled her against him. 

"I'm sorry I have to go tomorrow," he said, unable to resist kissing her neck. "I'd give anything to stay with you a while longer."

"I'm sorry, too." Jeanette closed her eyes and drifted as his lips left heated trails on her skin. "I understand, though. I just..." She took a deep breath. "Do you think I can see you again? After Christmas?"

"I'd like that." He tightened his arms around her and felt a little of the weight on his shoulders lift. She wants to see me, he thought. It wouldn't be quite that easy, but he didn't care; the rest was details.

"I've been wanting to tell you something," she said. Even though she was facing away from him, she closed her eyes. 

"What's that? Then I have something to tell you, too." He nuzzled her neck.

"I love you." He stopped but didn't move, wondering if he'd heard those words or if his mind was playing tricks on him. All day long he'd thought about how to say them to her. Hearing her say them had been a dream, a wish. He wanted her to say the words again.

When he didn't react, Jeanette got nervous. Was he shocked? she wondered. Upset? Trying to figure out how to say thanks, but I don't feel that way? The longer he was silent, the more she wished he'd say something, anything, instead of leaving her in limbo. "Don?"

"I love you, Jeanette." He shifted on the couch, making both of them laugh as they got tangled up and he finally gave up and moved to the floor, pulling her with him. "I love you," he repeated as they lay on the rug in front of the fire.

The heat from the flames was nothing compared to the heat of his body pressed against hers, Jeanette thought. She didn't have much time to ponder it, though, as Don lowered his lips to hers. Her hands combed through his soft, dark hair and she sighed appreciatively as he rubbed her back. 

"You know," he said between kisses, "the other night I wanted to go to bed with you."

"I wanted that, too." She moved her lips to his neck, pleased when he tightened his grip around her. "I didn't care if we were actually in a bed, though." She undid the first two buttons on his shirt and rested her cheek against his chest. His heart was pounding. 

"I don't care about that anymore, either." Don rolled them over so that she was on her back and he could cover her body with his. "But I'll move if you want to."

"No." She reached to undo the rest of the buttons. "I like it here, in front of the fire." She paused and raised a hand to his face; he leaned into her palm. She smiled. "I'm glad you found me at the train station."

"Me, too." He didn't want to talk much more, but he could wait another minute or two. "Say it again, please."

"I love you." 

"I needed to hear that." He trapped her in a long, luxurious kiss. "You look gorgeous, you know," he said, giving in to his own needs and sliding his hands under her sweater. Her skin was warm and soft and he wanted to see and feel it all. "Feel nice, too."

Jeanette couldn't reply, too caught up in the feel of his hands on her. This was the best Christmas present she could ask for, she thought. She was in love, the love was returned and anything else could be dealt with after Christmas.

Don undressed her slowly, wanting to enjoy her for as long as he could before he had to leave. He'd never been in love before, never wanted someone so much that he was willing to rearrange everything else in his life for them. Thoughts of the future were pushed out when Jeanette slid the rest of his clothes off and pulled him back down to her. She wanted only the present, where they were surrounded by soft lights and the comforting sound of a crackling fire.

"You're the best present I ever got," he told her. Removing her clothes had been the unwrapping and it was time to thoroughly explore his present. His mouth followed his hands as he taught himself all about her body: the sensitive line of her neck, the soft curves of her breasts, the intoxicating smell of her skin. His fingers stroked and played, and he smiled at her gasps. He hissed in pleasure when she arched against him and the heat of her desire met the hardness of his. Trying to make it last a little longer, he let his hand drift further down and they both groaned when he touched her.

He looked down at her, saw the Christmas lights reflected, sparkling, in her eyes. Her cheeks were flushed and she bit her lip. "I've been wanting to do this," he murmured, and with his other hand cupping her face, coaxed the lovely red lipr into his mouth, sucking and nibbling gently. 

Jeanette rocked her hips against him instinctively, enjoying all of the kisses and caresses but wanting more. She got her wish and sighed happily as he slid inside her. Don stilled and squeezed her hip in a silent request that she do the same. Reluctantly, she did. She forced herself to relax, to savor all the feelings, and then he pulsed and she couldn't be still. 

Don braced himself on his elbows and responded to her movements, thrusting as slowly as he could and driving himself crazy. Jeanette whispered to him, he wasn't sure what, but it burned through him and he moved faster. So did she. 

He kissed her hard, then nipped at her lips, her chin, her jaw, trying to distract himself. She clutched at his shoulders, whispering his name. He remembered one place he hadn't tasted, and withdrew so quickly that her eyes widened in surprise. Before she could breathe out a question, he'd lowered his head between her legs and slipped his tongue out, flicking over her slick skin and tracing her sensitive center. She jumped against him, but he put his hands firmly on her hips and continued his new explorations.

He kept it up just long enough to feel her shake with her orgasm, and then he moved back up her body and was inside again. He hadn't known he was cold, but her warmth shocked him as he settled himself over and in her again. She wrapped her arms around him and held him tightly, telling him once more than she loved him as her body tensed around him. He thought he'd never had such a wonderful present, and then couldn't think at all as he gave himself, physically and mentally, to her.

x-x-x-x

Dec 24

"Hey, Don, you made it." 

"Hi, Blix." Don looked at his friend, blinked and tried to clear his head. It seemed like he'd been away from Jeanette for weeks, but it had been less than twelve hours.

They'd made love again and again in front of the fireplace. His favorite, he thought, was when she'd been looking down at him and he could watch the patterns from the firelight dance over her skin. Neither had wanted to go to sleep, because for all the times they'd promised their love, both of them harbored doubts about what would happen after they parted.

Don was afraid she'd have regrets, that even a little time apart would make her realize she'd made a mistake. He had none, none at all. No regrets, just a burning need to get back to Jeanette.

"Everything okay?" Don brought himself back, saw Blix with his untamable black hair staring at him with concern.

"I'm fine," he assured Blix. "Just...thinking about things."

"Female things?" Halley came up and squeezed his arm. Blix went back to his seat at the table, far more at home with computers than anything female.

He nodded with a wry smile. "Something like that."

"Did you tell her?"

"I did."

Halley smiled and gave him a one-armed hug. "It'll be fine, you'll see. Here." She slipped a piece of paper into his hand. "You'll need that later."

"Where's everybody else?" When Don had arrived, he'd dropped everything in his room and run to the pre-launch meeting. Blix had been waiting, idly playing a video game, and Vicki—who had a cute, foxy face with bright eyes—had been reviewing the schedule with Rudy, who looked much better than when Don had left. Halley had come in and something was different about her, although Don couldn't quite put his finger on it. Val was late, but then that was nothing new. 

"Let's see, Dash is probably bemoaning the cold weather, you know how he is." Halley held up one finger as she began to list the absentees.

"Oh, yeah. He went to Fiji or something, right?" Don smiled. Dash loved his work and did it well, but he wasn't crazy over the local weather and the second he had the chance, he was off to some tropical island. 

"Right. Martha and Toni are probably off working up a new dance routine to wow the clubs." Don nodded. "They won a contest," Halley told him. "We'll have to make sure they don't change careers." 

"Val going to show up?" Val's one drawback, besides his constant flirting, was habitual tardiness. Much to his surprise, instead of joining in a little ribbing, Halley defended Val.

"He'll be here," she said. "He's a little late but he won't hold us up. You know that." They looked up and waved as Dash, Martha and Toni walked in and took their seats.

"Right. Sorry." Don eyed her critically, glad to have something to occupy his mind. Had something happened between the Halley and Val? She'd sworn up and down that she'd wouldn't be one of his conquests, but she was gorgeous and Val was charming...it wasn't impossible.

Val came in just ahead of the boss, nodded to everyone and took a seat next to Halley. The smile she gave him erased any doubt in Don's mind about what was going on. He decided he'd have to have a word with Val, but since Halley looked happy, it would be a careful, discreet word.

The boss came in and the room fell silent except for one last beep from whatever computer device Blix had in his hand. Guiltily, he stowed it away.

"Glad to see everyone here," said the boss. He was a relaxed, jovial kind of guy, but he got the job done. His dedication to his work and his respect for the entire staff meant everyone wanted to help get the work done. Don thought no one could be a better employer.

"I hope you enjoyed your time off," he continued, "because we have probably the tightest schedule we've had in years. However, I know that you all are a good, tight team and I'm not worried." He beamed a smile at them all, and they immediately felt better, more confident. "Rudy, you're up."

Rudy stood and all eyes fell to him, making him squirm a little. He was an excellent organizer, but not much of a public speaker.

"Okay, we'll do a quick weigh-in and figure out our best configuration. Anyone needs a bathroom, now's the time." Small chuckles went around the room. "Let's go people, time's a-wasting." Rudy hurried out the door. "Remember to keep your shoes on when you step on the scale!" He called behind him.

"Darn," said Halley. "He figured out my trick."

"You don't need any tricks," Val assured her as they walked out. "You look perfect." She looked up and blushed happily. Don shook his head.

The weigh-in was done in record time, and places assigned. Rudy would lead, and the first pair behind him would be Dash and Martha, with their light, lithe builds. Toni and Vicki were next. Halley and Val went in front of Don, who was paired with Blix, as he had been last year. 




Unexpected Gifts



"Okay, let's get moving," called the boss.

"You got it, Mr. K," Rudy answered.

Don sighed as he got ready for the longest Christmas of his life.

x-x-x-x

Dec 25

"You sure you don't want to come?" Isabella sounded anxious. "I'm so sorry you were alone today, Jeanette."

"I'm fine," Jeanette assured her sister. Except for feeling like half of me is missing. She kept that to herself. "I'm sorry, I hope I'm not messing up your plans. Things just got so messed up in Minnesota that I needed to get back to my place, you know?" Part of her wanted to tell Isabella what had happened, but she wasn't ready. She wasn't over it and couldn't tell anyone until she was.

"I know," said Isabella. "I understand, really. We'll look forward to seeing you at New Year's, okay? Mom and Dad will be back, too, so it'll be nice to have everyone together."

"It will," Jeanette agreed.

"Look, I need to get to the boy, so you say Merry Christmas to Alastair, okay? He missed you, too." Isabella laughed. "He always says you make him miss the UK a little less since you're such an Anglophile."

"That's sweet. Sure, I'd love to say hi." There were muffled noises and then her very Scottish brother took the phone.

"Happy Christmas, Jeanette! Sorry you couldn't be here." 

"Merry Christmas, Alastair. I'm sorry, too, but I'm looking forward to coming out next week." Jeanette smiled to herself. Alastair had changed so drastically regarding Christmas in the last two years it was hard to believe. He'd railed against the commercialism, the traffic, and anything else he could think of. Then he and Isabella had had a son, and after that Alastair was a different person. Fred was the best present he'd ever received, Alastair had proclaimed, and now Christmas was his favorite time of year.

"Listen, when you pack, would you bring a torch, Jeanette? Isabella keeps shorting out the lights and I can never find the bloody thing."

She laughed. "Of course, Alastair. Need a wrench or a hammer, too?"

"I'm a man, Jeanette. I have a full supply of tools in the shed to prove it."

"But no flashlight?"

"A torch isn't a tool."

"Of course not." They chatted for another minute until an ear-splitting shriek from Fred drew a frantic apology and good-bye from Alastair.

Jeanette shook her head, smiling at the happy chaos she imagined was in full swing at their house. She was looking forward to taking her part in it, but for now, she looked out the window and sighed. It was after eight at night on Christmas and there'd been no word from Don.

She told herself that he was busy, and that she had no idea of his work or schedule, so expecting him to call was just an exercise in frustration. 

This is ridiculous, she thought as she went into the kitchen. I can't just let everything stop because he hasn't called. He said he loved me. I have to trust that he'll find me. That thought only added to the frustration. 

They'd spent so much time absorbed in each other that when it came time to leave, it was a frantic, hurried effort to pack her bag and get to the airport in time for the flight. Don hadn't been much better off, saying he was cutting it close reporting for his shift. They had shared tight embraces and fevered kisses, but she'd forgotten to share crucial information. Like my last name and address, she thought angrily.

She tried to relax. She knew his name and still had the business card, which at least had Joel's number on it. Don hadn't given her his cell number, so she couldn't call him directly, which she wouldn't have anyway, not wanting to bother him at work.

One more deep breath, and Jeanette forced herself to think about other things. She turned on the television and found a PBS broadcast of a choir performing Christmas carols. At least, she thought, she'd decorated even though she'd expected to be away. It had been nice to return to a cheery apartment on Christmas Eve, with her decorations around the house and even a small tree on the dining room table. She ran her hand over a wooden cutout of Santa and his sleigh, smiling fondly at the memories it brought up.

She filled her tea kettle and turned on the burner, then rummaged through the cabinets for the hot chocolate. She took out a mug, dumped the powder in, and wondered if she had any marshmallows in the pantry. 

After her drink was ready, topped with whipped cream in lieu of marshmallows, she went into the living room. She turned off all the lights and sat watching the tree, listening to the music and remembering the few days with Don.

She didn't know how long she'd been dozing before the loud clatter on the lawn jerked her out of sleep and off the couch. She was at the door in a flash, looking out the small window and wondering if a car had hit a tree. Dissatisfied with squinting through the frosted pane, she opened the door. The moon was bright and glared off the snow, making her bring up a hand to shade her eyes.

She saw someone on the lawn, their back to her as they waved at someone else. Her throat caught as she thought she recognized the build. But how could it be him? she wondered. How would he know where to find me? I never told him.

Her thoughts scattered as Don walked towards her, green eyes glinting as he smiled slyly.

"Merry Christmas," he said.

"How...?" she couldn't finish the question because too many of them wanted out at the same time and they all started with that word.

"Let's go inside and I'll tell you everything." He stood before her but she remained in the doorway, too stunned to move.

"How did you find me? How did you get here?" 

Don laughed and reached out to pull her to him, needing a kiss before he answered. "How about 'I love you' first?"

She had to laugh, ecstatic now that he was actually there, in front of her, holding her. "I love you."

"Good. I love you, too."

"But still, how..."

"My boss is an incurable romantic. He let me off a little early and has an amazing ability to locate people." He kissed her again and this time she responded consciously instead of reflexively as she had at first.

"Remind me to thank your boss," she said, unable to stop smiling.

"I will," Don said. "Not too many people remember to do that. What's say we go in?" he asked when she shivered at the cold. She nodded and stepped back to hold the door for him. Before closing it, she stared out at the lawn with a frown.

"Something wrong?" he asked.

"I don't know." She looked up, confused. "Why are there hoof prints on my lawn?" 



Unexpected Gifts



"I think that would be nice," Victoria says over the phone. "It really would be nice and the kids will love it."

She hangs up the phone and a little smile creeps across her face. She and David had been divorced for just a little over two years. Every year since the youngest of their three children, David would dress up as Santa with gifts, but since their divorce he hadn't done it. A lot of anger surrounded them, but over time it vanished.

Now David wanted to pick back up the tradition. Nothing special, just play Santa and drop some gifts off. He is a good father, but Victoria and he just didn't get along for a time. She settles into the chair by the phone and sighs. She is still in love with the man, but she wasn't all too sure about him.

The day went by slower than Victoria wanted, but she chalked it up to her anticipation of David coming over. Her thoughts were about everything she loved about him from his personality to his huge cock.

Victoria and the children were just finishing up dinner when a loud knock came from the door. Victoria almost flies out of the chair and she says, "I wonder who that can be."

The children look at each other then the door as their mother opens it up.

"Ho, ho, ho!" shouts their father dressed as Santa Claus. "I heard there were three very good children here."

The three children spring up from their seats and rush toward the door. Daddy!" they all say in unison.

David scoops them all up and gives them a big hug, carrying them into the living room where a fire was going in the fireplace, heating up the room nicely.

He sets the children down and reaches into his bag. "Let's see what we have here," he says smiling. "Rebecca? Is there a Rebecca here?"

Rebecca laughs. "Oh you're so silly Santa." She rushes up and collects here gifts.

"Ho, ho, ho," David says reaching in the bag again. "I have something here for Nathan."

"That's me!" Nathan shouts. He races up to David collecting his gifts as well.

Finally David looks into the bag and says, "It seems I only have gifts left for a little girl named Sarah."

The little girl giggles and David takes her gifts over to her. The children tear into their presents like wild animals. Victoria watches in delight as their children are having so much fun. David takes a seat next to her and starts digging through his bag once again. "Hmm," he says. "It looks like Santa slipped in a special gift here."

Victoria looks at him and smiles, "You didn't have to David."

He smiles at her and says, "I know, but I wanted to and gives her a small white box.

She opens it to reveal a beautifully decorated necklace. "Oh my," is all she is able to say.

David smiles, "Here let me help you with that." He puts it around her neck and Victoria feels butterflies fluttering in her stomach. It is a feeling she hasn't had in quite some time. "There," he says. "That looks very nice on you."

The hours pass as the children play with their toys and soon it is time for bed. David volunteers to tuck them all in telling them to get to sleep because the real Santa Claus will be coming soon. When he gets back down stairs he says, "Well it was good to do that again."

"Thank you for it," Victoria says taking his hands into hers.

He smiles and says, "I guess I should be going."

She just nods and as he reaches the door she says, "Won't you stay for a cup of coffee before going out into the cold?"

David stops short and turns around saying, "I think I would like that."

Victoria brews a cup of coffee and brings out two cups of steaming hot coffee and sits beside David on the couch. "It's been awhile since we've enjoyed a cup of coffee together."

"Too long."

They sit in silence when suddenly Victoria reaches up and takes one of his hands in hers. She unbuttons the first button on her dress with the other, pulling it open slightly. Then she guides David's hand inside. He hears a soft gasp for air as he closes his hand around her breast. It is soft and very firm. Her nipple is lika a hard marble covered in velvet between his fingers. He slides his other hand down her stomach and pulls her back into him. "Are you sure about this?" he asks.

"As sure as I ever will be," she breathes hard holding his hands in place.

She pulls him to his feet and slips a hand onto his hard cock, rubbing it through his pants. She unbuttons his jeans and works his zipper down until it is free of the confinements. Then she closes her fingers around his cock. "I miss how this big thing feels," she says softly.

David undoes a few more buttons on her dress and slowly begins to pull her dress down over her shoulders. She lets go of his cock long enough to pull her arms free of the dress. It falls to the floor around her feet. She gracefully steps out of the dress and flicks it toward the couch. She turns around and leans back against David, taking his hands back to her breasts then wiggles her firm ass until his hard cock is nuzzled between her ass cheeks.

"No underwear?" he asks because she always, always wore them.

Victoria doesn't answer. She slides her hands to his hips and pulls him in even closer as she slowly moves her ass in small circles. It feels wonderful against his throbbing cock. The smell of her hair in his face, her luscious breasts in his hands and her ass slowly massaging his cock is incredible

They stand like that, silent, beside the fire for some time. Her head tilts back on his shoulder as she gets lost in the sensation. David presses his mouth against her skin, breathing softly on her bare shoulder and then her neck before coming to rest against her ear. 

"I've wanted you for a long time," David whispers into her ear then rubs his cheek against here. "I miss you so much."

At that point she turns around. She doesn't say anything; she just looks at him for a quick second and slips her hand behind his head. "Me too."

She holds her nice, round breast up with the other hand and pulls my mouth to it. She guides my mouth to her hard nipple and holds her breath as he happily sucks it into his mouth. His cockhead rubs against her wet slit as his hands make their way around to her ass. He digs his fingers into it as he gets more excited. Victoria pushes into him, trapping his hard cock between them. David moans into her breast as she sways side-to-side.

Eventually their stomach begin getting slippery and Victoria reaches down between them and takes hold of him, rubbing the head of his cock with her thumb, smearing the wetness. He watches as Victoria looks down, watching her own hand moving over his cockhead, getting him even wetter.

She pushes his jeans down off his hips. They fall to his feet and she holds them down with her foot until he steps out of them and then she tosses them beside her dress with her shapely leg.

"Lay down," she says to him, gliding her hands up and down David's sides and thighs while not taking her eyes off his cock.

David gets to the floor to lie on his back. Victoria looks absolutely incredible standing over him. All the curves of her body and roundness of her breasts are enhanced by the light from the fire. She straddles him and reaches between them and takes his cock into her soft hand then lowers herself even more, guiding him into her pussy.

Her pussy is just as he remembers it. The heat from it is almost as strong as the fire as David slides right in. Victoria moans and lowers her upper body until her breasts rest on his chest and her cheek is against his. Without saying a word David wraps his arms around her and she begins to slowly fuck him.

Her hot pussy slides up and down on his cock, over and over. Victoria's breathing is heavy in his ear now. Then she whispers, "I want you to cum in me. It's been too long since I have felt it."

She moves faster and faster on top of him. Soon after David holds her tight around the waist and starts to cum.

"Oh David!" she cries into the crook of his neck.

She wraps her arms around him, pulling herself in closer, taking him in deeper inside. They hold each other and rock and thrash on the floor. When it is over, little by little, they slow to a stop. They don't end the embrace as Victoria stays on top of him, his cock still firmly inside her.

David can feel her body is tight and tense. Before she can say anything, David holds her tighter and rolls them over. She is now on the bottom with him between her open legs with his semi-hard cock still in her. David buries his head into her neck and says, "I still love you."

Without another word he slowly begins to move his hips. It takes only a few strokes inside her hot, wet pussy for the firmness to return to his cock. He feels her body ease a little and her hands gently begin to slide up and down the backs of his arms. She slowly starts to rock her hips in rhythm with his.

"I've thought about you for so long," she confesses softly. "Oh David, I miss you." She wraps her legs around him and pulls his head down to her lovely breasts.

After a few more thrusts her body shudders along with his, as they cum together; her covering him with her cum and him filing her up with his. She pulls David's back up and locks her lips on his. The kiss is soft and sweet. It seems to over shadow the sex and feels like the first time they kissed.

"I have one more present for you," he says reaching for the sack. He pulls out another little box and gives it to her. As she opens it and her eyes go wide he asks, "Will you marry me?"



Unexpected Gifts



"It's a simple situation Mr. Gaines. You will go to the bank tomorrow and take out one hundred thousand dollars from that fortune your daddy left you or copies of this video will find their way into the hands of your business colleagues, the press perhaps, and of course... Shelley."

Marcus felt like the walls of the room were closing in on him. 

"I think that other than the graphic sexual content, she'll particularly enjoy the part where you say 'I'll leave her. I'll do anything you want.'"

Marcus remembered one of the things Caramelle/Louise had said while teasing him. 

Or it's a trap, someone is videotaping us. After you cum, you'll be blackmailed. 

She still wasn't looking at him. She was still staring at the ground. 

"All right," he answered. "I'll get you the money"

"Good. This is how it will work." The fat woman reached into her jacket pocket and pulled out a card. She handed it to him. It was a glossy black laminated card with the words 'C U P I D' embossed in gold on it. Beneath the lettering a bank account number and sort code was printed.

"When the money appears in the account, you'll get the tape. You can then either destroy it or keep it to whack off too."

Marcus nodded.

"You should have fucked her though," said the fat woman. "She's one of a kind."

Caramelle/Louise gathered up her things and followed the fat woman to the door. Before leaving, Caramelle/Louise said in a barely audible whisper, "I'm sorry."

And then she left.

6 – LOUISE

"I feel sorry for him," said Louise.

The Mistress just laughed. "He's got enough money that the two hundred thousand won't be too deep a dent. Let's see how the other hundred thousand's coming along." She reached into her coat pocket and pulled out a cell phone. She dialled.

Louse didn't say what she was thinking. I don't feel sorry for him because of the money. Money doesn't matter. It's never about the money anyway whatever you may think. I feel sorry for him because of the look in his eyes when you came into the room and the look in his eyes as I left. 

She didn't say these things because for the Mistress it was only about the money.

"How did it go Kano?" the Mistress was asking. "Don't be ashamed," the mistress continued after Kano replied. "The women are usually more faithful. Besides, that's why we hit them both anyway. One of them's bound to crack. Louise roped him in. He was fighting her at first but then she... I'll tell you about it when you and Moses get back. Don't sweat it. You'll get the next one."

The Mistress hung up. "That boy," she sighed. "He's a one of a kind."

7 – KANO

After Shelley fell asleep Kano had rushed out onto the narrow balcony of the hotel room and told the teenager who was standing out there. "Not this time. I don't want to go through with it this.time"

"What are you talking about?" Moses replied. "I climbed four stories up to get up here and I've been freezing my ass off while you've been having all the fun. Now you're saying you don't want to go through with it.

Kano stared at the bed where Shelley slept, her lips curled into a contented smile.

"It was different from the other times."

"Come on Kano. You just fucked her. You barely even exchanged more than ten sentences. She's not your bloody soul mate."

"Please. I'll owe you. I'll do anything."

Moses stared down at the video camera in his hands. "What'll we tell the Mistress."

"Leave that to me."

And when she called, he had lied. "She turned me down," he'd told the Mistress, lying to to her for the first time in four years. When he hung up he didn't feel an iota of guilt. He felt happy. He walked back to the bed, lay down beside Shelley, wrapped his arms around her, and watched her sleep.

THE END