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Forbidden

By: Snowmomma



Constructive positive comments are always welcome either by email or by posting to the public comments section. I am looking to improve my writing style with each story I write and every opinion helps. 

If you are offended by the subject of a CHEATING WIFE, hit your back button and find another story. I'm not interested in abusive comments about my subject matter. I have my own reasons for the subjects I choose to write about.

****

I woke up in a wonderful mood, full of the devil, you might say. My husband, Andrew, still sleeping soundly in bed next to me. He'd probably sleep for hours yet as I knew he had been up until the wee hours of the morning. Well, just that much more time for me to get things done. I love being alone first thing in the morning. The quiet stillness of a day just beginning. 

I wrapped a simple blue cotton robe around my nude body, tying the belt as I walked to the kitchen and made a pot of coffee. I decided to use the bathroom in the hall instead of the master bath so I wouldn't wake him up. As I walked down the hall I noticed the door to the guestroom was cracked open. A friend of ours, Wes, was living with us for a while and it was the door to his room that I peeked into. 

I saw that he was also still asleep, lazy men. He was lying on his back with just a sheet thrown over his body. As I stood there looking I noticed that not all of him was still asleep. His dick was hard and apparently larger than I had previously given him credit for. Seized by an uncontrollable desire to see it, I snuck into the room pulling the door closed behind me. Glancing at his face to be sure he was still undisturbed, I grabbed the side of the sheet nearest to his erect cock and lifted it up just enough to see.

Now let me tell you, I love cocks. Big, small, short, fat, skinny, long. I don't care, I just love to play with them. My husband's was okay, about average in size it met my needs but Wes... W-O-W. It had to be at least 9" long and about 2" in diameter, beautifully shaped with just a slight upward curve. Just the thought of getting that monster in my mouth had me salivating. 

A quick glance at the head of the bed assured me he was still sleeping. I could leave and no one would know. A large and curvy woman myself, I couldn't be sure of the reaction I would get once he was aware of what was happening. I nearly did leave. I put down the sheet and stood up... but I couldn't do it. Before I could think twice, knowing that once I touched him it wouldn't be long before he awoke, I pulled the sheet all the way down. In seconds I had both hands around his cock and my tongue licking the silky head. 

I licked him all over like a lollipop before wrapping my lips over the head and sucking. I took probably half of him into my mouth, bobbing up and down for a few minutes just savoring it. I hadn't ever had the opportunity to try to deepthroat anyone (my husband's not being big enough to do that with anyway) but I just had to try. It might have been just me and the cock in the room as I had forgotten it was even attached to a body. I stared at it for a moment, running my fingers all over the now slippery cockhead and shaft. I took a deep breath and plunged. 

I got ¾ of the way down the first time, twice more I tried it but I still couldn't take all of him in. The fourth time down I suddenly felt a hand on the back of my head, pressing me closer. I was so shocked I let him push my head down until I was deepthroating all of his enormous dick. I tongued all I could until I just had to catch my breath. Again and again I slipped him into my throat until his hand at my shoulder pulled me back. I looked up at the smile on his face. "We can't let this end too soon," he stated. After moving to sit at the side of the bed where I was kneeling he pulled me up, kissed me and said, "That's the first time anyone has ever been able to deepthroat me. You are breathtaking." 

Once I was standing I shrugged off my robe as he grasped my hips and pulled my pussy to his mouth. I relaxed my legs letting him get closer and at the first touch of his tongue on my clit I moaned. Andrew was superb at licking pussy but as we are usually both busy it had been quite awhile since I had enjoyed that particular treat. Wes was obviously no novice at it and soon had my legs so weak it was either sit down or fall down. I laid down on the bed and with the increased access he went to town. His tongue danced over my clit, dipped in my pussy and tickled my ass. The sensations so exquisite I had to bite my arm to keep from screaming. It didn't take long before I came. He moved up the bed, positioning himself over me with a shit-eating grin, his face wet with juice from my pussy. 

I pulled his face down to mine and kissed him, savoring my taste on his lips. His cock brushing lightly against my pussy lips started my hips moving, trying unsucessfully to impale myself on him. I settled for rubbing my clit against his head, the feeling sending shivers down my body. He moved enough to put the tip just barely inside me. I tensed in anticipation for a second before realizing he wasn't going to give me any more. 

He chuckled above me, his amusement at my need obvious. I illustrated my frustration by biting the lip I had previously been sucking on. He retaliated by pulling completely out before thrusting forward to fill my pussy. The monster cock stretched me to the limit, bringing a moan of satisfaction to my lips. "Oh my god, yes!," I cried. 

My hips matched his rhythm, his body slamming into mine hard and fast, just the way I love it. The feeling was so good, so overwhelming, I came quickly. I nearly bit through my lip trying to keep from screaming. His finger slid down to rub my clit keeping my orgasm going. He slowed his pace a bit as I started to relax. 

At that point I decided that I was going to get as much out of this incredible situation as I could and told him to stop for a moment. He sat back, watching me curiously. I turned over and got on all fours before looking back at him over my shoulder, "Well? What are you waiting for sugar?" 

"Just admiring the view," Wes said. His hand was running over his cock, slick with my juices as his eyes roved over my ass. I looked back down at the bed, smiling a smug little smile to myself. My smile turned suddenly to shock as I felt the slap of a hand on the left cheek of my ass. The sharp sting faded to a tingle just as a second smack landed on the right. 

This action was repeated several times on both sides as the tingle on my ass started a throbbing in my pussy. When my backside was shining red, I finally felt both his hands on my hips and that hot hard cock sliding into my slippery wetness. A sigh slipped through my lips at the feeling. My head down, ass high in the air, a huge cock fucking me.. I was in heaven. With each thrust of his hips, his hands pulled on my hips. The sensations built up as he moved faster and harder until I came for a second time. My hands curled in the sheets and my body pushed back against him as I quivered and shook. 

He plunged into me just twice more before his orgasm joined mine. I could feel his legs shaking as he ground his hips against me. After he pulled out and sat back on the bed I turned around and immediately took his softening cock in my mouth. My tongue went seeking out every drop of moisture, relishing the combined taste of his cum and my juices. 

Once he was all clean I kissed him once more, quickly grabbed my robe and opened the bedroom door. I checked down the hall to be sure it was empty before running to the hallway bathroom next door. I got the shower started and was in the midst of washing my body when the door opened. At the sound of my husband's voice I froze. "Honey, why are you using this shower?"

"You were sleeping. I didn't want to wake you."

"I guess. What do you want for breakfast?" The inane conversation assured me that my secret was safe. I swiftly finished my shower and went to my room to dress and start my day... again.

Forbidden



"We shouldn't be here." She stated in flat voice. He had learned to identify that voice as her thinking out loud, rhetorically. He knew she was right but did she have to pop out with something so cliché?

Feeling her insecurity he curled into her, his 6'3" frame enfolding her petite body. Even with her melancholy mood the chemistry between them was electric. The brush of her shoulders against his bare nipples, the rise and fall of her ample chest as she took deep breaths to forestall the guilt rising in her, the press of her firm, round ass in his groin as they spooned once again fending off the outside world; they melted into each other becoming one.

It had started as purely sexual, a diversion. Then they realized that they fed more than each others neglected libidos, they fed each others souls. She savored the cocoon like embrace. Here there was no question. She belonged with him. His long frame perfectly enveloping her, she was safe to feel. Feelings of guilt and self doubt were once again thrust into the dark recesses of things she would face later. For now.... smiling she shifted her shoulders lightly against his nipples and pressed more firmly into his loins. She could feel his thick member rising against her back. 

It had taken some time for him to grow accustomed to the difference in their sizes but now he relished being able to tuck her into him. Damn she knew how to start him. He could feel hot tide of arousal lap at his mind and bath his body in growing passion. Her seemingly innocent brushes against his nipples signaling his body before his mind could process her intent. He had been so willing to simply comfort her, hold her but neither of them seemed able to resist when the other signaled such desire.

The need was palpable as she turned to face him. Rolling over on her side she looped one leg over his hip. Her soft, green silk night shirt open, she pressed her hardening nipples against his chest. Those eyes, damn those deep grey blue eyes! She tore her gaze from that soulful stare and followed the curve of his lean face to the lips that would soon consume her. Tentatively she stroked his parting lips with her tongue, tasting him. Brushing her lips against his she felt his arms tighten around her. Soft teasing kisses merged into the full passionate onslaught of a feast of tongue and lip. Occasionally shifting to suck on lobes or consume the tender throat made bare but a trusting tilt of head, they gorged on the sensuality of their oral foreplay. 

With slight and gradual motions made without conscious effort, she was astride him. Her petite body over him she moved up his torso. His kisses began seeking ever lower destinations. Feeling his hot, hungry breath on her nipples she could not restrain her lust. She pressed her breast into his seeking mouth. His tongue flicked across her nipple as his lips pressed into the aureoles pinching her tender point. A gasp escaped her as he gave hard suck forcing her breast into his mouth through tightened lips. He could feel her wet puss arch into his abdomen as he opened his mouth wide sucking her full orb in to fill him. His hands pressed into her straining shoulders trapping her tit in his mouth. His tongue massaged her, each suck sending ripples of arousal while triggering her loins to contract. Her moans of lust growing deeper she pushed up playfully fighting his hold on her. Taking in a deep breath he smiled, his eyes gleaming in steel of his intent, he forced her down. He fed on her second breast with single minded purpose. He could feel her body writhing in arousal, her knees gripping his ribs, pubic bone pressed hard into him. He slid one hand from her shoulders in search of deep wetness. Taking the opportunity she turned. Never allowing her breast to fall from his suckling mouth she moved, she positioned herself so that she now faced down his long, tensing frame. Sensing her intent, he rotated his body on the bed to give her room.

She pulled her tingling breast from his mouth and gazed once more into those hungry eyes. Smiling at her he reached above his head and stroked her breasts, guiding them back to his waiting mouth. Leaning forward she ran her hands lightly over his nipples, feeling his involuntary shudder. She moaned as his mouth sucked deeper on her full breasts, gently now in anticipation of her attentions. Gasping as he gripped her other breast and played its fullness with his fingers, she fell to his nips and gave suck. 

Pausing only to alternate nipples they fed. Tongues flicking, nipping, sucking, fingers brushing, lightly pinching, rolling nips between thumb and forefinger each touch sending ripples through their sensory enslaved bodies. Like some imaginary dial they turned each others hot passion to scorching voracity. No longer slowly caressing he flattened his palms against her sides. Pressing them deep into her flesh he ran his ravenous hands from ribs to ass and grabbed hold. Forcing her firm body down his own, he trailed his tongue from her sternum down her silky skin; dipping into her navel he felt her arch in surprise. He pulled her hips over him. Her knees now spread to either side of his head he positioned her dripping, hot cunt over his face. He could feel her descend on his torso. Her wet tits trailing hot moistness across his stomach, until she reached his pulsing rod. She gripped his glistening cock and thrust her eager mouth at the base of his shaft.

He parted her passions lips and pulled her hips down forcing her wet puss deep into his mouth. She arched moaning her pleasure, pushing harder into him. Opening her eyes she found his hard cock inviting her, all but pulsing to feed her. Encircling his head with her tongue she meant to tease him only taking in the tip to suck his precum. His need would not be so teased. He gave hard tongue fucking suck to her cunt. Involuntarily raising her head from her appetizer, she gasped in surprise and rapture. Holding his cock firmly in her hand she thrust deep on it, feeling its hardness at the back of her throat, sucking, stroking. She swallowed hard and opened her throat. Grinding on his face, his tongue flicking across her opening, her clit pressed hard on his chin, she shuddered as he pressed his two long sensual fingers into her. He began to tongue her clit, sucking its hardened nub.

Overwhelmed she stroked deeper, thrusting his penis deep, gripping his shaft. With each up stroke she paused massaging his swollen head pressing it between the roof of her mouth and her tongue. Feeling her clit swell she knew it would not be long. As though every nerve were sucked to the surface, she quivered in uncontrolled arousal. He played his tongue across each like a maestro stroking piano keys. Pulsing in clitoral climax she rose from his penis, arched in rapture. He sucked each drop of her erotic juices feeling each deep pulsation with tongue and lips. Easing from his mouth, still shuddering from her pleasure she turned to face him.

She straddled his rock hard cock and slid her wet hungry puss up its length. He could feel the twitch and pulse of her clit on his tender head as she rose to stroke her slit across him. She leaned forward, pressing her breasts to him, their lips met. Tasting, inhaling, savoring the taste of each other, his hand rose to her sides. Locking eyes she rose above him. He gazed at her in fascination as if some slow motion movie were playing out. A wave of passion/surprise/lust forced a gasp from him as he felt himself plunged suddenly and deeply into her hot orifice. Letting gravity take her, his head was forced deep against her cervix, their pelvic bones grinding in solid union. She gripped him hard and rose slightly on him.

He felt the ridge of his circumcised head slide against the smooth deeper walls of her vagina. As she rose higher, the lower ridges of her constricting vagina sent waves of erotic tremors through him. Sensing his pleasure she rode in shallow strokes, teasing, massaging his full thick head. She descended only to half shaft arching to force him hard into her g spot. His hands gripped her hips as he demanded to be fully engulfed in her sweet hotness. She plunged down, arching to take him deep. The strokes came faster, deeper as their juices combined straining to lubricate the feral friction. Wanting to make the climax wait he tried to slow her. Her pleading hungry eyes found his as she rose to the top of a stroke. The hard explosion of lustful gratification turned inward to a deeper rapture. They each held back realizing they had passed a point unreached before.

His lips found her in soulful, tenderness. He wrapped her in his deep embrace, pressing her to him; they rolled to find her below him. His steel hard passion merging with the sweet adoration they shared, he pressed gently into her. Her legs rose to embrace his hips as he stroked in slow deep gentle loving exploration of her womanhood.

Her hips rose to meet his in soft undulations. Tilting her head back she closed her eyes and flattened her hands to his sides. Breathing deeply she looked up at him. Their eyes drinking each other in, she brought her hand up to caress his cheek. With a final thrust, he pressed firmly into her deep embrace. The passionate, furious, pulsating climax reached deep and echoed in their souls reverberating as a cascade of quiet tremors ensued that marked a deeper rapture than either had ever known. One love lay upon the sheets, enraptured souls so deeply merged the lovers ceased to be as two entwined.

Later when they woke, there were only heartbeats, the soft brush of hair, the cool air on damp skin and the knowledge that they were two again. Two who could not be.



Forbidden



kristin is ripped from her sleep, a heaviness pressing on her body, one hand covering her mouth, and another grasping her hair, pulling her head back sharply. her arms and legs are pinned down under His weight and she is unable to move. she can feel His breath, hot, on the side of her face, her heart pounding in her chest. Through the darkness she can see nothing but His shadow. He whispers in her ear, His voice deep and threatening, "Scream and I will kill you. Do you understand?" Tears begin streaming down her cheeks, faint whimpers escape from beneath His fingers. He jerks her head back harder, "Do you understand Me?" He growls. she struggles against Him to nod her head yes. He drops her face back into the pillows, gloating, "That's a good little whore." 

He releases His weight just from her arms, crosses them at the wrists in the middle of her back, and binds them tightly. He turns her over on to her back, straddling her legs between his knees. He leans in to kiss her and she turns her head to the side. He grabs her by the throat and presses His mouth violently against hers, biting her lip so hard she swears He must have drawn blood. He loosens His grip on her throat, reaches back to His waistband and pulls out a knife, the dim light in the room barely reflecting its broad blade. Under His weight she is paralyzed, terrified by the sight of the knife, and her entire body begins to tremble. 

He leans in to her again, pressing the tip of the blade against her cheek, "Don't ever turn away from Me again." He orders. He presses the point of the blade harder against her flesh, dragging it across her jaw, resting it against her throat. she begins whimpering louder, tears streaming down her face. 

she manages a weak whisper from her lips, "Please." 

"MMMM, that's a good little whore. Beg for it." He uses the blade to cut open the t-shirt she had been sleeping in and pushes the pieces to the side, exposing her full breasts. her bound hands force her back to arch up deliciously. With the dull edge of the knife He slowly traces a line from her throat, over her breasts, and down her stomach, resting the cold steel across her waist. He strokes her fleshy mounds, gently at first, then with increased aggressiveness....massaging them roughly, then pinching and twisting her nipples until they stiffen against His fingertips. He takes one of the hardened little nubs into His mouth, between His teeth, and bites down hard enough to make her cry out in pain. "That's the way whores like you like it, isn't it?" she just lay there beneath Him, sobbing uncontrollably. He grabs her, crazed, and repeats, "Isn't it?" 

"Yes," she cries. 

He continues biting her, administering quick, sharp stinging pains over her face, neck, shoulders, breasts, and stomach. He laughs as she begins sobbing again, trying in vain to struggle beneath Him. He leans back, grabs for the knife again, and with two quick cuts rips her panties from her quivering body. He grabs both her legs behind her knees, forcing them high and wide. He kneels between her spread-open thighs, pressing and holding them even further apart with His own knees. He runs the blade along her inner-thigh and again she pleads with Him, "Please."

"I know you like it whore." He slides His hand down her thigh to her furry mound and slips His fingers into her dewy wetness. Her body betrays her and responds instinctively to His touch. He plunges His fingers deep inside her as forcefully as He can, holding her soaked pussy in His hand, stroking her spasming vaginal walls. she cries out again, thrashing her head to the side, desperately trying to bury her face in the bedding. 

He laughs again as He withdraws His sopping wet fingers, "If you didn't enjoy it, whore, your tight little cunt wouldn't be this wet." Again, He grabs her at the throat, turning her face back to Him and runs His fingers across her lips, covering them with her own juices. He presses His face against the side of hers and whispers, "Tell Me you like it whore. Say it. Tell me how much you like being treated like a whore." 

"i like being treated like a whore." she can feel Him grinning against the side of her face. 

"And whose whore are you?" 

"Yours," she concedes. 

He leans back up on His knees, unfastens His jeans, and pushes them down to expose Himself. He strokes His massive, rock hard cock a few times, pressing just the head of it against her dripping wet pussy.

Suddenly He jumps up off the end of the bed, flipping her back over onto her stomach and dragging her to the edge of the bed by her ankles. He grabs her by the waist and pulls her up on her knees, spreading them wide in front of Him. He forces His huge cock deep inside her, pulling her back onto Him with each violent thrust. By now she has forgotten about the knife and His threat and cannot help screaming uncontrollably in vain. Unaffected, He continues His attack on her pussy, pounding into her relentlessly harder, deeper, faster. 

her cries are lost in the beddings and her mind races wildly. she is flooded with emotion---fear, pain, helplessness, confusion, and pleasure. she thinks, "Why is my body responding to this assault, to this man?" 

He starts demanding questions of her. her body is defenseless against Him, and her mind has now surrendered as well.

"What are you?"

"i'm a whore."

"Whose whore are you?"

"Yours."

"Tell Me you like it like this, being fucked like a whore."

"i like it like this."

"Now beg me to keep fucking you, My good little whore."

"Please......Please don't stop."

she answers between sobs and tears as He continues the assault on her body and mind for what seemed like an eternity. Then suddenly He pushes her forward, flat on the bed. she feels His hot, thick cum spilling over her back, hands, arms, and ass. He collapses on top of her spent, lifeless body. "Say thank you pet." 

she can't manage another word. Breathless, she just lay there beneath the weight of Him, trembling. He begins kissing her lips and face and neck gently, tenderly, and then reaches over to turn on the lamp next to the bed. His body covers hers, and He whispers to her softly, "Open your eyes, kristin. Look at Me and thank your Master. 

In the darkness she could see only a shadow, but now, in the light, she can see Him clearly. He unties her wrists and she excitedly throws her arms around His neck, kissing Him wildly, passionately, repeating again and again, "Thank You. Thank You. Thank You."

*

*Although this may at first appear to be a story of rape, it is indeed a story of fantasy, a fantasy that many have considered, but so few will ever voice. It is the fantasy forbidden. It is also ultimate submission of slave to Master....no safe words at play in this session.



Forbidden



He shouldn't be thinking like this. That the way her eyes sparkle as she's reading light up her whole face. He shouldn't want her. It was forbidden, she was his daughter. Her mother had died years ago. After an argument she had stormed off. It was over between them. She hadn't come back- she was killed in a car accident. He'd never told Bella that he and her mum were over. He couldn't do that to her. Bella had been five, and him thirty. 14 years- it seemed longer. His baby had grown so much. He couldn't stay here staring at her- he went to his room.

God he was so hard! He couldn't resist. He moved his hand to his cock and started to stroke. He imagined it was Bella's hand wrapped around him. He imagined her breathlessly saying his name- "James!" That did it! He exploded over his hand, Bella's name on his lips.

Oh how he wanted her! He loved her, in both ways. The proper fatherly way, and the way a man was supposed to love his love. 

The next night he was lying in bed when Bella knocked on the door and came in.

"What's the matter Honey?" She looked crushed.

"A guy asked me out today". Jealousy slammed through him. He wanted to hunt the boy down and kill him.

"Why do you look so sad then?" At that a tear strolled down her cheek.

"Because...he wasn't you." Suddenly the hurt and jealousy vanished, elation took its place. She wanted him. Him!

"Oh Baby don't cry. I want you. I want you so badly I ache with it."

She looked surprised- she didn't know what she did to him.

"But...but...if you do, why haven't you done anything? You... haven't kissed me".

That was his control gone. He pulled her to him and kissed her. Her eyes widened in surprise but then fluttered closed. She tasted so sweet, it was nirvana. She moaned from the back of her throat and he pushed his tongue into her mouth. She accepted him. His hands found their way to her thighs. He pulled away and she opened her eyes with a sound of protest.

"Are you sure you want me Bella?"

"Yes Daddy, I love you so much".

"Oh Bella I love you too!"

He kissed her again, plundered her mouth with his tongue. This time she kissed him back. Forcing her tongue into his mouth. God it was fantastic.

"Bella", he ground out, "I want to make love to you, but we don't have to do anything tonight. I'll wait until you're ready."

She looked at him, her green eyes sparkling.

"No Daddy, I don't want to wait any longer."

She pulled his head back down and kissed him again. He pulled her pajama top over her head- loathe having to leave her lips. Oh but her breasts! Such perfect breasts were never seen before. He lowered his head to her left breast and took the nipple into his mouth to suckle it. Bella's head thrashed on the pillows. He moved to the right and her back arched beneath him. He returned to the heaven that was her mouth.

His hands removed her bottoms and panties at the same time. God she was perfect.

"Do you want me Baby?" he asked breathlessly.

"Oh yes Daddy!" He was so hard by now he couldn't wait any longer, he had to be inside her. Now.

He positioned himself at her entrance. His cock so hard it was pulsating with need. He wanted nothing more than to just bury himself inside his Bella. But he wouldn't hurt her, this was her first time and he was going to make it good for her.

He pushed in slowly- his tip just nestled between her lips. Lord she was so wet! So wet and warm. Bella shifted slightly. He hated that he'd hurt her.

"Bella baby, this is going to hurt. I promise if you want me to stop I will."

She nodded at him.

He thrust the first five inched of his cock inside her- slowly, ever so slowly. He reached her hymen. She was his-only his! He thrust the other five inches inside her. She gasped in shock and pain. Tears pooled in her eyes. He hated to see her cry. Oh but she was so tight. His cock was buried inside her warm, wet and tight passage. It felt so right. He didn't move. He wanted her pain to stop. When it did Bella pulled his head down and whispered fiercely in his ear- "Love me Daddy." 

He replied simply with "I do."

And then he started to move in and out of her pussy. Slowly at first but gradually Bella was moaning and gasping her pleasure. It excited him no end. He moved faster. His cock was thrusting in and out of her pussy in a fast rhythm. Bella arched her back, showing him her pleasure. Oh it felt soooo good. In, out, in, out. He had wanted this for so long. His thrusts got harder; oh he was in so deep he was sure he must be hitting her womb. Faster and faster. He felt his balls tighten- ahh so close. He felt Bella start to clamp him. He felt over whelmed with love for her- he was going to cum... 

"I LOVE YOU BELLAAAAAAAAA!!"

"I LOVE YOU DADDY...AHHHHH JAMES!!"

She said his real name as she came. That did it for him. He emptied himself inside her, filling her to the brim with his hot seed.

After their orgasms has subsided James moved to his side and pulled Bella with him into his arms. He was still buried inside her pussy- he didn't want to leave it, it just felt right. He pushed the hair away from her forehead.

"Are you all right sweetheart?"

She looked up into his eyes and smiled.

"Mmmmm" was all she managed.

He was worried he'd hurt her, he had been brutal and completely out of control towards the end.

"I didn't hurt you did I?"

"No Daddy. It was..." he held his breath "perfect, beautiful, wonderful!"

He smiled. "I love you Baby."

"I love you too Daddy."

She fell asleep with his arms around her and before he followed her into slumber he couldn't help but think how perfect his life was.



Forbidden



I hope you enjoy this little love story. First I'd like to thank Raney and Angel for their editorial services. Again, if you are looking for some quicky sex, you might want to look elsewhere. Please remember this is a copywrited work and all legal disclaimers apply. This story deals with breaking as many scocial and religious taboos as I could. If this will offend you, you might not want to read this story. All constructive comments are welcome. Thank you and enjoy.

   ***

"Fuck... Fuck... Fuck...!" She screamed out her frustration once she was safely behind the door she'd just slammed. "You are so stupid! You've loved her for how long and never let her know? Stupid bitch...!" She berated herself, pulling at her hair. 

"But No...! Two glasses of brandy and you almost let it all slip out. At her wedding shower no less. You fucking, jealous, idiot...!" She admonished herself as she passed the hall mirror.

Looking into the mirror, she dismissed the hurt look in her eyes, and tried to take stock of what she saw. She knew she wasn't some stacked model type. She was a true plain Jane; Jane Stevens, to be exact. She wasn't tall or short. In her opinion, she was just right to be unnoticeable. Just the way she liked it. 

She has been the same five feet five inches since she was a freshman in High School. She wore the same 36 C bra and the same size ten skirts. She had the same dark brown mane of curly hair, which showed what little was left of her Jewish heritage. At 25 she didn't look bad. Nothing spectacular, but not a hag either. 

She knew she could pass for many different nationalities. Her background was so mixed; even she didn't even know how mixed. Her skin was neither dark nor light. Jane was not fat, and would never be skinny. Her most striking feature was the innocent mischief in her golden brown eyes.

The eyes which let her go into any store and captivate the males into getting her what she wanted with a gentle pat and a "Yes Ma'am or Little Miss," from the helpful clerks, as they treated her like their little sister. She loved doing it, knowing none of them could ever touch her heart like Reyna had, even if the other woman didn't know it.

For ten years she had kept her secret. For ten years she kept her feelings in check. Jane thought back eleven years. She remembered the first day, she saw the shy girl, as she was introduced into her freshman Biology class. 

She was pulled to the hurt, scared, young woman who wore bright long flowing garments which had to be too hot for the humid climate. She recognized the Middle-Eastern features as she waited for the girl to sit next to her in the only empty seat in the class. 

The seat was empty, because the boys didn't want to sit next to the Lesbo-bitch and the girls didn't want to be found wanting by association. They acted like it would rub off or something. 

To be honest, she didn't know if she was really a lesbian at the time. But, she sure was interested in the attention the older teen was showing her in the shower. Nothing was really happening when they were caught after practice. They had just gotten started washing each other's bodies when they were interrupted. It snowballed from there until the label stuck.

She heard the snickers and grunts from the shallow minded idiots in her class. She had come to hate going to biology. It was the only regular class she had to attend. She could feel her IQ drop 20 points every time she crossed the threshold. Such was life in the small bedroom community just outside of Atlanta Ga. 

It wasn't the sad girl's fault that the nation was at war, or the fact she came from an Islamic country. It wasn't Reyna Mounoumpor's fault that the small minded idiots started calling her 'Rag-Head, Camel-jockey' or the other less than polite names they so inventively came up with. All Jane could do was fight for Reyna like no one had fought for her. And, fought she did. 

It didn't take long for them to become the best of friends. Being a girl allowed Reyna to be able to go over to Jane's house to study and vise-a-versa. It took longer for them to really open up and trust each other. That was their biggest test.

It was the first Chanukah after they had become friends. Jane had invited Reyna over after school. She saw the instant fright and revulsion when she saw the Menorah on the dining room table. Reyna was about to bolt when Jane pulled her into her room and they had a long heart to heart talk. It was the first of many. 

It was during one of these talks when Reyna admitted the reason she was sent over to live with her relatives in the USA. It was because she was considered tainted goods. Her family could no longer arrange a good marriage for her at home. What hurt the most, was that someone, she thought was a friend; had set her up. 

Reyna explained, in her culture, it was common to have those kinds of things known in the small villages and communities. What she didn't know was that her friend's family was trying to negotiate with the same family hers was. So her friend set it up so they could go walking one afternoon. 

They met a boy and before Reyna could stop it, he had pulled down her veil and kissed her. It was witnessed, and the friend got her wish and husband. All Reyna got was a bad reputation, so her family sent her to the USA to let things die down and try again later. 

Jane promised Reyna that day, she would never go out with any boy Reyna was interested in. She didn't add that she wasn't really interested in boys. She was still young, and she never knew, one day, maybe, there might be a guy who might catch her eye. So, she was willing to leave her options open. 

It was only a matter of weeks after that, when she knew she was in love with Reyna. She knew it every time she saw her. Her heart would thud heavily in her chest every time they showered together during gym. Jane also knew she could never tell her friend how she felt. She knew she had to hide it and let her friend find love elsewhere. 

She would've hated the next memory, as it flashed to the forefront of her thoughts, but she loved it instead. Because she found what she thought she would never find. She found Reyna's soul, and the memory would last her a lifetime. Sighing, she remembered. 

It was the time she let Reyna talk her into going to the Winter Formal dance. They had carefully picked their dates and convinced them to ask. They were brothers, but unknown to both of the girls, they were nothing alike. Thom, the older brother, was what Jane called a pussy hound. He believed in the four F system of sexual exploration.

You know, the Find them, feel them, fuck then and then forget them. He was good enough looking to get away with it for a short while and Jane had been one of his earlier victims. 

Thom's younger brother, William, on the other hand, was the perfect Gentleman. He was lucky enough to have Reyna's family approval of his escort to the dance as long as they were properly chaperoned. 

What they didn't know, was Thom and his group of friends, had gotten a bit drunk and high before the dance. Thom asked Jane to go for a walk, and Jane lost her virginity while being held down backwards over the bleachers as Thom ranted on about how he was man enough to cure the 'Lezzy', until he ejaculated and left her there crying.

It was Reyna who found her and tended to her as she bled and cried. It was Reyna who understood and helped her through it during the next month. It was Reyna who held Jane again as she cried through the cramps and relief when her period finally came. It was the compassion Jane saw in her eyes. It was the lack of judgment and the acceptance Jane fell in love with. She couldn't help herself.

Thom was spending the back stretch of fifteen years as a guest of the state for not believing, No means No, and the DNA results proved it. It didn't matter how many times he claimed it was consensual.

Sally Jenkins, due to her upbringing, had the little girl and then gave her up for adoption so she could have a better life. Everyone knew she wasn't ready to be a mom at fifteen. Jane testified, helping Sally gain redemption in her family's eyes. It was Reyna, who again, held the sobbing Jane after the brutal cross-examination. 

Unluckily for Thom, he was over eighteen and an adult when it happened. William, on the other hand, was able to get a full scholarship and graduate college before he married and bought his slice of the American dream. Jane had even seen him around her parent's neighborhood from time to time with his happy growing family. 

Jane shook her head against the memories. "I hope I didn't fuck it all up being stupid. I'll never drink around her again! It's too dangerous." She said to herself as she went into her bedroom to go take a cold shower. 

After her shower, Jane was still bitching at herself. "It's not like I haven't tried to find someone else. I've had boyfriends and girlfriends... It's not my fault no one can touch my heart like she does. I know I'll never have her." She lamented as she brushed the tears out of her eyes. 

"She's looking forward to getting married and having kids. She and I aren't the cheating kind even if she was interested in me that way." She tossed things around her room in irritation, jumping when the phone rang.

She knew who it was. Jane didn't have to look at the caller ID. She always knew when Reyna called. It was part of the problem, she always knew. She hesitated for a second before the need to hear Reyna's voice over took her.

"Hello Rey." She answered.

"Why did you leave? I went to talk to my mother and when I came back you gone." Reyna said in her cute accent.

"I'm Sorry Rey," Jane said honestly, then fibbed. "I have a headache and needed to come home. You know me and strong drinks don't mix... and well...."

"I would take care of you...! You know that." Reyna said hurt.

"I know Rey, but it is your party and I didn't want to be a wet blanket.... I mean I didn't want to have you make a fuss." She temporized, knowing Rey still had problems with American slang. 

"You are never a fuss. Please come back. I need you here. You are my best woman, or whatever you call it. I need you...." Jane was answering as soon as she heard she was needed.

"Okay Rey, Let me get some stuff and I'll be right back." Jane sighed. "Just remember no more drinks for me." She knew she could never deny Reyna anything. She would literally walk the bowels of hell for this woman who didn't even know how much Jane loved her and most likely never would. 

"Okay, I will have some coffee ready. Drive safe." Reyna said as she disconnected.

"Damn," Jane said as she started getting dressed again. "Keep your hands to yourself. You know they expect you to sleep with her tonight. That's why you ran, you lily-livered coward." She told herself as she got ready.

Jane did have a headache by the time she walked back into the party. Reyna's mom, who had come to visit for the wedding, saw the pain in her eyes and took her into the kitchen. 

"I make you tea. It will help. Coffee will only make worse." She said in her broken English. 

Reyna was reassured everything was good again between them as soon as she saw her mother's special tea in Jane's hand. Jane hadn't lied to her. Their friendship, her rock, was secure. She pulled Jane back into the middle of the other women and they relaxed enough to have some fun. 

Jane groaned in frustration as Reyna snuggled against her. She wanted nothing more than to turn over and make love to her best friend and never let her go. She finally went to sleep when Reyna's mom came in and lay next to her with the rest of the women. Jane only woke once when one of the other women of the family got up to use the restroom. She sighed as she felt spooned between Reyna and her mother. 

When Jane woke the next morning, she could hear the soft lilting voices, as Reyna, and one of her female relatives chatted quietly in a corner. Jane was confused for a second because she felt cuddled from behind. As she opened her eyes, she saw Reyna's mom was looking at her. Before she could say a word, Jane felt her lips kiss hers ever so softly.

"You are good friend... a true friend, better than sister. I am glad my Reyna find you." She said as she got up, leaving her spicy sent behind her. Jane stretched and smiled at her friend, who just smiled back as she continued her conversation.

Later in the day, Reyna was able to get Jane alone and told her. "My family is calling you my American sister. They like you a lot and wish you could be near me always."

"I'll always be there for you Rey! Whenever you need me, I'll be there. I promise!" Jane told her honestly.

"I know... they know too." Reyna told her friend. "We can always call each other. I have to move to Cleveland after I marry Rajah and live with his family. It is tradition, but at least my children will be born here. Now, let us go make bread." She said with a bright smile.

Jane wanted to say so much, but took the hint from Rey and they made the bread for the wedding feast. She plastered on a smile and laughed when she understood the jokes and stayed as close to the one person who she thought would always hold her heart. 

Her heart broke two days later when she watched Reyna marry someone she knew her friend didn't love. It broke a little more when she watched the moving van pull away with Rey and her new husband. Jane never remembered his name, but she waved as they drove off. She was startled when Rey's mom came up behind her, hugging her and softly telling her.

"No cry here. Come with me and we cry together in house." Cry they did. They both knew Reyna had started a new life and they were the ones left behind. Even though she hated it, Jane knew it was time to turn the page and get on with her life.

***

Three long years later, Jane was getting her mail as she headed into her apartment. She was surprised to see a letter from her Ummah. It's what she started calling Reyna's mother right after the wedding. She knew it meant mother in Arabic, but that didn't matter to her. It was just one way to keep the lines of communication open between Jane and Reyna. 

She dropped the rest of the mail on the counter while she opened the letter. She took out the picture of Reyna and her beautiful daughter Janna. 

She smiled down at what she knew was her name sake. She was sad at the hollow look on her friends face. Jane knew Reyna wasn't happy, but there was nothing she could do about it. She punched the answering machine and listened to her mother's voice complaining again.

"Hi Jane, its mom, your father wants you to come over this weekend for dinner. Yes, before you ask, he has some young men coming too. I know you're busy, but don't let your father down again. It's time for you to settle down. We would like some grandkids while we're young enough to enjoy them...." 

Jane blew her bangs out of her eyes in frustration. She had learned to hate these little parties her father had started planning. She just didn't have the heart to tell him, she wasn't really interested in men. Oh, she tried, but most of them had fast hands or the dates ended badly. Most of the men acted like she was desperate or something.

She wondered where her dad had found this bunch. She had hoped after the last go round, he'd run out of eligible men to throw at her. Not that she was having any luck with girls either. Most days she had just accepted she was destined to die a spinster. 

Add to this, the fact; she'd thrown herself into her work and her opportunities of finding a suitable date, dwindled down to nada. "What did they say in that stupid cartoon?" she muttered to herself. "Oh yeah, it's my lot in life. It's not a lot, but it's my life... Or some shit like that." She grumbled at the machine as she pushed the button to shut it up. 

She sat down in her over stuffed leather recliner as her cat bounded onto her lap. She took out Ummah's letter and started reading. She read how Rena was having a hard time adapting. Being the youngest female in the house was causing problems. Then, because she hadn't delivered a son, hers were pushing her to get pregnant again. 

Jane felt bad for Reyna. In retrospect, her life wasn't that bad. At least she had a choice. She also knew if she truly had her choice, it would still be Reyna who she'd choose. She petted her cat as she looked into the picture and wished.

The next thing she knew, the blaring of her alarm woke her up. "Damn, I did it again." She said to herself as she tried to stretch the kinks out from sleeping in her chair. After her morning routine, she headed back to the office. 

When she got to her desk, she pinned the new picture up next to the rest. She sighed, first in sadness, and then in frustration. She noticed the office skirt chaser heading her way. It wasn't as if he was bad looking in a middle age executive kind of way. It's just she wasn't interested. Not like she could get the message through to Mr. God's gift to women. 

"Hi John," She said knowing she had to talk to him. He was her boss unfortunately.

"Morning Jane, I'm trying to see who needs a ride to the retreat. I have room in my car if you want to leave yours here. It'll save on gas and we can split the cost." He said with a voice full of innuendo.

"Sorry John, but I have to get out of there as soon as possible. I have meetings and other things I have to attend to." She tried to put him off.

"I know, but you need to take some time for yourself. All work and no play make Jane a dull girl. Take a day. You won't be sorry. It's not like your boss will hold it against you." He said with the mandatory eyebrow wiggle. 

"Is Sally coming?" Jane asked quickly. "I haven't seen your wife the last couple of months. Maybe we can go shopping together down there." She knew how to cool his jets, and she did like Sally. Not that she could ever figure out what she saw in her slimy husband. 

"I'm not sure. She said something about something she had to do. I'll tell her you asked about her." He smiled insincerely as he headed off to the next desk, making his rounds of all the women in the office. 

'At least he's an equal opportunity sleaze-ball.' Jane thought. She couldn't wait until she got promoted out of his section. 

Since she missed breakfast, she actually took her lunch break. It was the first time in weeks. In a rare moment of weakness, she ended up going with some of the other women, from the office, to a local crowed diner. She listened, not saying much, as they chatted about men and all the nasty things they tend to do, as one of the girls bemoaned her inattentive boyfriend.

She snorted at one comment and saw the speculative look from Susan. She knew the rumor pool said Susan might be a lesbian or at least had women lovers before. But Jane never listened to rumors. She knew personally how wrong they could be. It wasn't as if the busty redhead had problems turning the heads of both sexes. Susan was one of those natural bombshells. She just oozed sexuality. 

She was five foot and eight inches of long legged perfection. She had naturally deep red hair which she kept in a sexy off the shoulder swing style. She had the alabaster skin and the cute freckles which go with the red hair. Her eyes were, to die for green, with smoldering reddish brown lashes. Jane knew Susan had the body many women coveted.

Jane unconsciously licked her lips as she watched Susan walk to the restroom. If Jane was into the casual scene, like many of the people her age were, she'd have been tempted to see if the rumor pool had it right. But in truth, Jane was looking for something more substantial. 

It was because she had been watching Susan, she saw her plight first. As Jane unconsciously waited for Susan's trip back to the table, she saw some guy hit on her in the most obvious way. Susan was trying to get back to the table, when she was corned by this guy. 




Forbidden



Jane knew the type... Hell, he even almost looks like Thom, all charisma and charm, until he gets what he wants. She thought. 

She didn't know why she flashed to that, other than she saw the look of utter revulsion on Susan's face as this looser tried to stroke her arm and cop a feel in a clumsy maneuver. The next second, she saw the trapped in the headlights look come over the woman's face and knew she had to act.

Jane promised herself she would never be a victim again and spent three years learning martial arts just for these occasions. She got up and told the ladies she was going to help Susan, as she tossed her cell phone on the table top next to her purse.

She tried to control her temper like her Sensei had taught her. She muttered, "Anger clouds the mind. No man is worth going to prison." As approached the scene, she saw the look of relief on Susan's face. 

"Hey Susan, are you coming back to the table?" Jane asked quietly. "We have to get back soon, and you haven't finished your lunch."

Susan latched onto Jane's statement and tried to get passed the annoying man again. "Sorry, I have to go. I have friends waiting for me." She tried.

"So, give me your number, and I'll let you pass. I'm not letting a hot thing like you get away that easy. Maybe you can bring your friend and we could have some real fun." The man slurred, looking at Jane's tits. Jane could smell the two Martini lunch on his breath as she put her hand on his arm.

"Hey asshole, let go of my girlfriend. She's tried to be polite, but you're being a jerk." Jane said with force.

"Girlfriend...!" He hissed loudly. "No fucking wonder you're putting me off. Fucking dyke bitch. All you need is a good stiff dick to set you straight, and I have just...!"

"Bill," a guy close by said as Jane struck. She hit him in the plexus and kneed him in the groin in a blink of an eye. 

As the guy fell, Jane said. "I said hands off." Looking at the face of the friend, who was trying to catch the groaning man, she told him. 

"Take your friend here and teach him some manners. When a woman says no, that means No!" Jane grabbed the startled Susan and pulled her back to their table. 

The other women all looked shocked at their approach. Jane sat back down and waited for the hammer to fall. She knew it would. It always did, but it was worth it. She listened to Susan's thanks as she watched the waitress come to their table.

She leaned down to Jane and told her in her ear. "Lunch is on the house. We've had problems with him before. The manager said she knows where you work if the jerk calls the police. Not that he wouldn't get busted for being drunk in public, she'll let you know. So don't worry it, and have a nice day."

Jane just nodded her head and told the others. "It's time to go back girls. If John sees us coming back late there will be hell to pay." They all got up and left a nice tip and exited the crowded diner to go back to work. 

Susan, who made sure to walk next to Jane, said. "Remind me never to piss you off. What did you do to him? Once second he was being an ass, then he was on the ground moaning. Can you teach me how you did it?"

"Yeah!" the other girls agreed. "That's one handy trick." Carole, the oldest of the group said behind her.

"Sure. It's not hard. My instructor called it the equalizer. You don't have to be accurate and they still go down. The trick is surprise. Asshole back there never thought I'd hit him, so he left himself open. Being drunk didn't help him either." They laughed and chatted the rest of the way back to the office. It was the first time Jane had actually felt accepted by the office coffee klatch. 

The next morning, Jane found a single long-stem rose and a thank you card on her desk. In the card, she also found an invitation to dinner from Susan. Jane really didn't think about it, she put the rose in her water glass and the invitation in her desk drawer and went to work.

It wasn't until later, when she visited the ladies room, that Susan had the chance to talk to her. She had finished her business and was washing her hands when Susan came in. Jane saw Susan's cautious glance and wondered what had the pretty woman so nervous. 

"Hi Jane, umm, I hope I wasn't too forward. I would've sent the invitation to your house, but I don't know your address. I hope you don't mind." Susan said in a rushed whisper.

"It's okay Susan. I liked the rose...."

"So, I can take you to dinner? Just as a big thank you..." She rushed on. Susan had been thinking about how her stomach jumped when Jane called her 'Her Girlfriend' and wondered if just maybe...?

"Umm sure... When...?" Jane replied. Jane wondered why Susan was jumpy. It wasn't like they were planning a hostile takeover or anything.

"How about Saturday night...?" Susan asked hopefully 

"Um, I have to be at my folk's house. Friday or Sunday would be better." Realizing the rumors might be true, and facing the fact that she was interested in the stunning redhead in front of her, Jane wanted her to know she was at least willing to go to dinner with her.

Susan would have said more, but another woman came in and all she could say was. "I'll get back to you on that," as she softly brushed her hand down Jane's arm and headed out the door and back to work. 

The rest of the morning, Jane battled back and forth the Pro's and Con's of getting involved with someone at work. Then she would think about 'what ifs' or if this was just a simple dinner. It wasn't like either men or women were breaking down her door to take her out. Jane tried to be honest with herself. Susan was way out of her league. 

She sighed and buried herself in her work. It wasn't the first time she used work to numb her problems. Work got her through missing Reyna so bad it hurt. Sighing again, Jane looked at her pictures then shook her head and dove into the computer screen to block it all out. 

Little did she know, across the room, Susan was boiling with need and uncertainty. She had quietly been attracted to Jane for awhile now, but didn't know how to approach her. Susan hoped Jane wouldn't rebuff her. She didn't know if Jane was interested in her that way.

It had been well over a year since she had lost her lover and she was ready to move on. She didn't want to go to any of the bars or clubs. She was tired of being hit on by both men and women. She knew it was no secret her last lover was a woman. It really didn't bother her anymore. 

She had learned to accept her sexuality. It didn't make her any less of a woman. She didn't go militant or anything like that. She still loved the feel of silk, leather and lace. Susan knew she received a lot more fulfillment from Gail, than any of the guys she had tried during her inquisitive years. 

Susan was attracted to Jane's simple natural beauty. If she didn't miss her guess, Jane didn't even know how good she looked. Her only worry, she didn't want to mess up a good potential friendship over her attraction for the shorter woman. 

"Nothing ventured, nothing gained." She coached herself. She took another small envelope from her desk and wrote a simple note and her phone number. She watched until she knew Jane was gone from her desk, and as invisibly as she could, placed it next to the flower. 

"No sense in branding her a lesbian if she isn't." She muttered to herself as she went and asked their boss an inane question, knowing he would ogle her tits again. "It's worth it if I find friendship or even love out of this." Susan told herself as her skin crawled.

That night, Jane was pacing across her living room as her cat watched and flicked his tail in time to her steps. "Come on Jane, she just wants to thank you for getting her away from the idiot during lunch. It's not like she wants to jump your bones. Not that some bone jumping isn't interesting." She chided herself

"This isn't getting me anywhere." She huffed as she grabbed the phone and punched the numbers. After the third ring she heard Susan's voice. 

"Hello?"

"Um Hi Susan.... It's me um, Jane. I um, got your note and...."

"Oh, Hi Jane...! I was hoping you would call. I don't want to sound like a broken record, but...." Susan's voice brightened.

"It's okay, really. I've been there. That's why I learned martial arts in the first place."

"Oh, I didn't know... Anyway about dinner, which is better, Friday night or Sunday evening?" 

"Um, where did you want to go? Friday is usually a zoo, but Sunday's can be a bit...."

"Yeah and John isn't going to let us off early Friday so, um how about we make it a late lunch early dinner on Sunday. That way we can be rested and enjoy ourselves. I know the perfect place."

"Um, okay. Sunday's best or casual?" Jane asked confused. 

"Oh, casual is okay unless you go to church or something." 

Jane laughed. "No, I go to Temple on Saturdays, if I go. My family is Jewish.... Is that okay?"

"Oh, I didn't know...? Mine are Catholics, but it's been years since I've been to mass. I'm not even a holiday... anyway...? Sunday afternoon about two then...?" Susan asked in a rush. 

"Sure... yeah, um... where...?" Jane asked feeling the beginning of butterflies in her stomach. Was she really setting up a date with the office bombshell? She asked herself.

"Um, one other thing,' Susan said. "It's not as if I'll ignore you or anything, but I'm rather a private person, so...?" 

"Yeah, so am I. So...? Work as usual?"

"Yeah Thanks. I'd hate giving those gossip mongers anymore ammunition."

"Susan, its lunch..." Jane chuckled, petting her cat's back. 

"I know, but if they hear about it, they'll have us doing the mattress rumba before dinner." Susan explained. "If a guy or a girl looks at me sideways, they think I'm... Well I'd never get out of bed if I did all of what they say. It's not fair..."

"I don't listen to them anyway." Jane reassured the nerves she heard over the phone, wondering where this was all leading. 

"Okay, I'd better go before I make a fool of myself." Susan giggled.

"Um okay, I'll see you tomorrow."

"Yeah tomorrow" Susan breathed as they said goodbye and hung up.

Luckily for both of them, the rest of the week was one mad dash to get things done. It kept their equilibrium. The nerves didn't hit until Saturday night. 

In Susan's case, she worried if she was ready to take the next step. She knew she was too young to constantly mourn the loss of her lover. It wasn't like they had a deep romance before the accident. Hell they had only made love twice... But what a twice...! 

In Jane's case, it was due to her father's attempts to find a suitable suitor for her. It came to a head when one of the guys, who had too much to drink, hands started wandering into no man's land. Jane was able to keep him at bay until she could give her father a piece of her mind after they left.

"Dad, I love you, but if you ever set me up again I will not show up. I am capable to find my own...!"

"I know sweetheart, but you work so hard and never go out." Her father apologized. "I'm just trying to help." He took off his yamaka and put it on top of his Torah. 

"I know, but it's not helping. I'd like to get to know someone before their hands go for an exploratory search of my body. I'm not desperate you know."

"Who did that? I'll..."

"Don't worry dad. I cooled his jets. Please trust me. I like coming home every now and again, but...."

"Listen to your daughter Karl." Her mother said behind them. "I told you so!"

From there the argument got heated. They'd always felt secure enough to air their differences in an open and honest manner. Yes, sometimes it got loud. It would usually end when her father would start swearing in Hebrew.

"Dad...! Dad... I'm Goy! Remember... So, swearing at me in Jewish isn't going to get you anywhere. Remember... you raised me that way. You said after my Bat Mitzvah I'd have the choice. What choice are you giving me?"

"But you're going on thirty and still not married."

"Yeah and so...? It's my choice remember?" 

"What would your Grandma Rivcah say?"

"She'd be cheering me on and you know it. I'm going home. I've got a date tomorrow."

"A Date...!" Her father exclaimed excited.

"With a woman friend... I did her a favor and she is taking me out to lunch...."

"Oh, okay...." He deflated. 

Jane kissed her parents and told them she loved them, but no more set ups, as she left. All the way home she wondered why she told her parents she had a date. Was it just a slip of the tongue or...?

***

Her mood wasn't any better the next morning as she tried to figure out what to wear. It wasn't like they say about girls and clothes. She just wanted to look nice, but with the heat and humidity, she needed something that would stay looking nice. 

She found a light green sleeveless shell with a nice spring flower print on the front, with loose white shorts. At least she'd be comfortable. She made sure her legs were smooth as she slipped into her sandals.

For better or worse, after she applied what little makeup she allowed herself and she was ready. She drove to old town and parked in the covered secured parking lot. She didn't know where they were going, but the lot was close and they could always get to it quickly. They ate a quick lunch and toured the downtown shopping spots. They laughed, giggled and started to get to know each other better. It was a good day. 

Jane drove them to an out of the way Mexican restaurant. They knew they held the interest of most of the male population, but they didn't care. For them it was fun. One thing was for sure, they never had to worry about service. 

It wasn't until after Susan had her second Margarita and working on her third, when her restraint relaxed. Then things got really interesting. They were seated in a secluded corner of the patio garden quietly talking when the slightly tipsy Susan blurted. 

"I'd love to pluck those daisies." She was looking at the flowers sprinkled across Jane's chest. There were these two perfectly placed... As soon as she realized she had vocalized her inner thoughts, she blushed redder than her hair.

"Oh shit! Did I say that out loud?" She covered her mouth with her hands.

"Um, yeah... what daisies...?" Jane looked around until she followed Susan's gaze and her nipples instantly responded. "Oh, those..." 

"I'm sorry... I didn't... I...." Susan blushed more if that was possible. She had been getting more and more aroused the longer she was in Jane's company. If Susan had her wish...! She pulled her wayward thoughts back in before she made a bigger fool of herself.

"It's alright..." Jane giggled. "I didn't know you like picking flowers." She knew she was teasing the poor woman, but it made her laugh. Jane had never seen someone blush so hard in her life. It wasn't like she was adverse to the idea. Her nipples couldn't get any harder at the thought.

"It would depend on from whose garden" Susan said before she could stop herself. Jane just about choked on her drink when she heard the remark. It was the break they needed to get over the gaff. They both burst out laughing as everyone around them looked to see what was so funny. 

They were still laughing when Susan called for the bill so they could leave before making a bigger scene. She playfully bumped and staggered out on to the street as Susan felt her body ignite from Jane's soft touch. Susan wondered why she was reacting this way. It wasn't this bad with...? 

"So, what do you want for Dessert?" Jane asked her still blushing companion.

"You...!" Susan gasped. "Damn, me and my mouth. What did you put in my drink?"

Jane's body clenched and she knew the dampness in her shorts wasn't due to the weather. She had been mentally undressing Susan out of her summer dress most of the day. She had to catch herself from wondering if the hair down below was as red as up above. Not knowing what to say, Jane made a joke instead.

"Hey, I might be cheap, but I'm not easy." There was something in Susan's eyes that made her sober up.

"I'm going out on a limb here and wouldn't want to spoil the day. But if we go there, it would be neither cheap nor easy. I..." Susan put it all out on the line.

"I know... But, here isn't the time or place... Want to go someplace quieter?"

"Yeah.... The park is still open we can talk there."

"Okay, I'll race you" Jane said as she smacked Susan's ass and ran towards her car, acting like an uninhibited child. 

"Hey, no fair, I'm in heals." Susan called after Jane, taking off her heals and hiking her dress over her knees to catch up. They laughed as they climbed in and headed to the park. 

They hadn't said a word until after they found a bench under a huge Magnolia. Susan was chewing her lip and Jane's hands were sweating. Finally it was Susan who broke the tension.

"I'm going to do something I've wanted to do for a long time. If you don't like it, I'll never try again." She leaned down as Jane leaned up. 

Jane's heart was beating against her ribs as she saw Susan start leaning into her. She was about to say something... anything then she felt Susan's soft lips meet hers. She felt the jolt from her head to her toes making her moan as she deepened the kiss. 

As the kiss went deeper, Susan felt the burn in her soul. She didn't grab onto the woman who was spinning her head. She only softly touched her so if she wanted to, Jane could escape.

They both forgot to breathe as time stood still in their first kiss. Neither one of them had experienced its like before. They finally had to break apart as the spots from hypoxia danced before their eyes. They both were gasping for air as they came out of it.

"Wow!" Susan gasped as she tried to drag air back into her pounding chest.

"Yeah..." Was all Jane could vocalize, before she leaned back in and kissed Susan again...? She wanted to be sure it wasn't a one off. 

It wasn't. By the time they could stop, they were breast to breast and their hands were sliding up and down each other's backs and arms as fire trails followed the path of their fingers. As they separated, their pupils were dilated and they could see matching pulses in their necks. Jane was the first to be able to speak.

"I've never... That was... Wow!"

"Yeah, me either... I was worried you'd..."

"Never..." they were completing each other's thoughts since they were the same ones. Jane saw the intent in Susan's eyes and placed her hand on her chest between her breasts, stopping her.

"We can't, if we start again, I don't know if I could stop." She breathed. "If, what I think is happening, is happening, I don't want to rush it. I think, with you, I could." Susan was about to say something when they heard some teenagers call out.

"Get a Room!" and "Can we watch? Damn Dude, that was hot!" Susan changed her mind.

"Yeah, I see what you mean. Let's go. We can talk while you drive. I'll sit on my hands if I have too." She smiled and grabbed Jane's hand and pulled her up off the bench, holding her hand as they walked back to the car. When they got back, Susan was again hit by a bad case of nerves. 

"I didn't plan on trying to seduce you today. I mean I've been interested for a while now, but I didn't know if you'd be receptive." She fumbled with her hands to keep them from reaching over....

"You have? I never knew." Jane said shocked. 

"Yeah, that's the point. Ever since I came into the unit I've noticed you. You're the only one there who's real, you know. Then again you've kept your nose to the grindstone as it were. I knew right off you earned your promotions through extreme hard work. If you smiled, it was genuine."

"Speaking of work, how do we deal with being around each other all the time? You know what they say about getting involved with a co-worker." Jane asked out of reflex.

"I know... I'll stop now if you want me to. But, now I know you are interested... I don't... I plan on seeing just where this can go. Do you want me to stop...? I've never been kissed like that before." Susan said with a dreamy look in her eyes. 




Forbidden



"Yeah, me either. Talk about spontaneous combustion. I've never really even kissed in public before... Not by boys or girls. I've never wanted to, but back there I didn't want to stop...! Nope, you stay over there or I'll wreck." Jane added as she saw Susan start her way.

"Just to let you know, I'm not coming in when I drop you off." Jane added. "If I did, I wouldn't make it home and we both know it. I don't want a quickie or some cheap tawdry sex, no matter how good it would be. I want everything, or nothing. I'm sorry but how I was raised." Jane said with more conviction than she felt. She knew if Susan pushed even a little bit, she'd cave and be lost. 

"Wow, you're serious. Damn! Do you know how many people have tried to get me into bed?" Susan said with tears in her voice. "I've always wanted... Okay, wow, um." She cleared her throat. You're right you know. I'd like nothing better than to spend all night exploring your body, but if we did anything tonight, it would end up just being a short sexual affair... I don't want that either.' She thought for a second. 

"Why don't we both go home tonight, next week we can set a date, and see if we can come up with some boundaries? If and when we cross that bridge, I too, want it all." They both were quiet, trying to get their bodies back in control. All too soon, Jane was in front of Susan's apartments.

Jane tried to hold back but she couldn't. They had agreed to one goodbye kiss. They forgot to put a time limit on it. Minutes or hours later, Jane had to push Susan away. 

"Go now or we'll never be able to see where this can lead. I'll see you at work and that will be the test." Jane gasped trying to catch her breath. She knew Susan was in the same state. 

"I'll be good... I promise. I might have to transfer out of your department, but I'll be good." Susan said as she pulled her purse out and dug her keys out of the bottom. 

"Sweet dreams." Jane smiled, knowing if she had been as affected, she was in for a restless night. She watched as Susan entered her building before pulling away.

As soon as Susan was safely in her apartment, she sighed and slumped against her door. "Wow... that went better than I'd ever thought it would...!" she said to the empty room. 

The first week was hell, but they made it through it. The second week was better, but not much. They had to be very careful. Carole, the sharp eyed fixture of the unit, knew something was up. She didn't know what, so she was watching over the unit like the proverbial hawk until she figured it out.

They felt like kids passing notes in school. It didn't help, all it took was one look from either of them and the flames would burst out again. The only thing they had decided was they would have to both agree before any lines were crossed. 

They also tempted fate by deciding on traveling to the conference together, but they were smart enough to get separate rooms. It was hard, but they made it... Frustrated sexually, but closer friends. 

John, of course, made an ass of himself, but everyone expected him to do that. Their problems didn't start until they got back. That's when the fickle bastard, fate, took exception to their happiness and kicked back hard. 

First was the letter from Ummah. When Jane first saw it she was happy. When she opened it, her mood crashed. It seems Reyna's husband had been killed and the family refused to let her invite Jane to the funeral since she wasn't the right kind of Muslim. It got worse from there. 

Jane did something she never thought she would do. She called Ummah in Jordan. Ummah was shocked, but happy to hear from her American daughter. She told Jane where Reyna was living. Jane also told Ummah to pass on her phone numbers just in case. Jane had a bad feeling in her gut, but didn't know what she could do about it. She fretted the next week, worrying about her friend.

On Sunday, Jane called Susan and had her come over. Even if they were just starting out, Jane didn't want any secrets between them. She cared too much to lose what they were building over something like this. 

When Susan herd what was going on, the first thing she did was hold the trembling Jane. "It will be okay sweetheart." She soothed. "Is this Reyna the one you've been in love with forever?" Susan asked quietly.

"Yeah, but she can never know. She doesn't know about me. I don't know what to do... How did you know I loved her?"

Susan smiled sadly. "Like I said sweetheart, you're real. You love deeply and hard. I've just felt the edges of your love and sometimes I wonder if I can take it. It burns so bright... it's overwhelming. I know you loved and lost someone else. She's the one in the pictures?"

"Yeah, she's..."

"Shh, now isn't the time... You'll do what you have to do and I'll be right here." Susan kissed her temple as she rocked her distraught girlfriend, praying she wouldn't lose Jane like she'd lost Gail before. She didn't know if her heart could take it without shattering.

They hadn't even been able to make love yet. They weren't in a rush. Yes, the combustion was still there, but they were savoring it like a fine wine. It wasn't everyday you fell over the cliff. Susan knew she was falling hard and fast. If she landed wrong, she knew it would hurt. 

They were holding and rocking each other when the phone rang. Jane jumped and was talking to her friend before she even picked up the phone.

"I'm here Rey... Rey...!" Jane yelled into the receiver.

"Janey... Ummah said call. I need you... They marry me to his Uncle next week. I'm pregnant and they want boy!" 

"Whoa!!! What? Slow down Rey."

"I cannot, if they find me talking on phone, they beat me again... Come Please." 

"I don't fucking think so! I'm on my way... Pack your stuff Rey; I'll be there as soon as I can, I prom...!" 

"I have to go...." The line went dead. 

Jane didn't even stop to think. She was in full reaction mode. She dialed John's home number and waited as his wife took him the phone. Without waiting, she laid it out for her boss.

"John, I have to go get my sister in Cleveland. Her husband is dead and she needs me. I'm taking Susan with me so I can drive straight through...." She listened to John for about ten seconds.

"I don't give a shit John. I'm leaving in less than an hour.... I'll call Dean myself I don't have time for this right now...! That's why they call it an emergency.... Whatever... I've called... Bye!" She slammed down the receiver and looked at her startled girlfriend. 

"How long do you think it would take to get your stuff ready? Never mind we'll stop on the way to the airport." Without pausing, Jane ran into her room. 

"Here's my credit card. Book us two tickets out of Hartsfield-Jackson to Cleveland while I pack my stuff. When you're done, we'll arrange for a van or SUV to drive back. We'll need a car seat. She has Janna and is pregnant again. I have triple-A, there is a discount... Fuck it... whoever has what we need!" Jane said as she pulled her overnight case out of her closet and started tossing clothes in it.

Susan thought she had been caught in the middle of a twister trying to keep up with Jane, as she ran around the apartment getting her stuff. She called the airlines and got a redeye flight out that night, but they had to be at the airport in less than two hours. As they headed out to Jane's car, Susan realized if she wanted to survive this trip....

"I'll drive; you'll need to call Dean from the car... I know the way to my house better." Susan said as Jane slammed her trunk lid.

"Okay... Hey, thanks..."

"Pishaw, Don't mention it... I'm not about to go against you. I've seen what you can do." Susan smiled. "Let's go get Reyna, she needs you." 

While waiting for Susan, Jane called Dean, the head of their department. He was John's boss's boss and the one everyone knew would treat them fairly. 

"Hi Dean," Jane said as she waited for Susan to load her stuff in the trunk. "I have to take some emergency leave... Yeah it's my sister... I have to go get her. Her husband died and... Thanks Dean. Yeah she's doing most of the driving. I don't... Okay I will. I'll call you as soon as I'm back... Thanks." Jane leaned her head back as Susan climbed behind the wheel.

"That sounded like an interesting one sided conversation." Susan said as she pulled out into the light traffic of the evening. 

"Yeah," Jane replied keeping her eyes closed. "He wants to see us when we get back. We can have a week if we need it, but afterwards we need to at least check in." 

"Do you have Reyna's address and did you call your parents?" Susan asked, going down her mental check list.

"Yes, and No...." Jane said automatically. "If I call my dad, he'll stick his ore in and my mom will just worry herself sick. We'll call them when Reyna and Janna are safe." 

"Okay...? I hope you know what you are doing. My parents would throw a hissy fit if I didn't let them know. As a matter of fact...." Susan said as she pulled out on to the freeway.

"Yeah, well mine will too, but it's still easer this way. Remember my father is Jewish and we are going into an Islamic community to get her out. I can see the headlines now." Jane rubbed her head, fighting the building migraine. 

"Oh, yeah, I forgot." Susan wondered just what she was letting herself in for. 

They parked in the long term parking lot and caught the bus to the terminal. Jane, being so upset, didn't realize she clasped onto Susan's hand as they walked with their bags to the counter to check in. 

Susan ignored the looks and held fast to the hand in hers. If they didn't like it, they could jump off the closest bridge. To Susan, it felt natural to hold Jane's hand in hers. She just hoped her grip was tight enough to keep it once the dust settled. 

She knew if she did, then she would have found the love of her life. If not, then she'd deal with the wreckage when she came to it. The way Jane was acting, showed how deeply she cared and loved. Susan had always wanted to be loved so deeply.

They made through the security check-point and to the gate with fifteen minutes to spare. Susan sat Jane down and stood behind her rubbing her shoulders as they waited.

"You might want to call your parents." Jane said as she leaned into the hands making her tingle and backing off the pounding in her head.

"I'll do it once we hit the tarmac, before they tell us to turn them off. That way they can't ask their mandatory thousand questions." She smiled down at the look she got from Jane. "What, you're not the only one who knows how to deal with her parents." 

"I don't know what I'd do without you right now." Jane sighed.

"A damn sight worse, that's for sure." Susan teased. 

They were herded down the ramp and jostled to their seats. Jane took the window and Susan put their purses in the upper compartment as she took out her cell. She grabbed two blankets and the excuses the airlines used for pillows. She sat next to Jane and called her parents.

Looking at Jane she said. "Good, the machine... Hi mom, dad... I have to go to Ohio for a couple of days and I'll call you when I get back so don't worry if I'm not at home... Love you." She snapped her phone shut and turned it off just in case they might call back. 

"I'll have a dozen call backs as soon as they hear their messages." Susan giggled. She saw the fatigue on Jane's face and covered them with the blankets as the flight attendants went through their spiel. Once they taxied out to the runway, she put her arm around Jane and snuggled her onto her shoulder. 

"It's going to be a long flight... Well at least a long wait, so get some sleep. You're going to need it." She said as she softly kissed Jane forehead. Susan was right and Jane was dozing before they even revved the engines, announcing take off. 

Susan was glad Jane had slept, even if she couldn't. It wasn't as if she didn't want to, but having Jane's head on her breast was sending fire through her body. The small nuzzling movements next to her nipple weren't helping much either. Since she couldn't sleep, she tried to figure out why her body responded so strongly to this small woman with a big heart. 

Jane promised herself she'd just doze for a little bit. She wanted to talk to Susan on the flight. She told her internal clock to wake her in thirty minute. Unfortunately for her, it wasn't working. The next thing she knew, Susan nudged her awake. 

"Wake up sweetie... We're coming in for the landing and we have to sit up." Jane sighed as she opened her eyes. She knew it was a short sleep, but it was a good one. 

She focused on the hard nipple in front of her and was tempted to lean in and nibble. Jane wondered if Susan knew when she got tired, her Georgia drawl came out thicker. She wondered why they were flying for a second then she remembered Rey. 

Sitting up she asked. "Did you get any sleep?" 

"No, someone I know wouldn't let me move." Susan smiled "I got some rest, but we need to find a room for a few hours or neither one of us will be worth a damn."

"Okay, you take care of that while I rent the vehicle." Jane stretched, bringing herself fully awake. Looking at Susan, "Now I know why they call it the red-eye. You need sleep." 

Jane ran her hands through Susan's hair trying to settle it back in place. "That plus a shower, a brush and some clean clothes. I forgot you hadn't changed your clothes yet today."

"Yesterday...It's already tomorrow by fifteen minutes."

"Well, now I know what you look like with bed head." Jane teased. "Not like I look any better." She ran her hands through her hair settling it down as they pulled up to the gate. 

"At least yours is curly." Susan said as she stood up to get their stuff. They both knew they were distracting themselves. Jane knew if she didn't, she's go mad.

Two hours later they collapsed on the queen sized bed. They didn't even bother taking all their clothes off. They were asleep as soon as the cover was pulled over them. Six hours later they jolted awake by the incessant ringing of the phone. 

If it was eight, it was their wake up call. They both stumbled around the room in a daze, trying to wake up. Susan called down for coffee as Jane pulled out her clothes. It wasn't exactly the way they had planned on seeing each other naked the first time, but the bathroom was too small for anything else. 

If nothing else, it helped cut the tension, seeing the others routine. Yes, both of their hands itched to touch, but there were more important things to think about. 

"Did you get a map?" Susan asked.

"Nope, better. It's a GM with GPS on board."

"Good, I was too tired to notice. You know how to work it?"

"Yeah, I hit the button and ask the nice person on the other end. I'm going to hate to see what this is doing to my savings but I didn't want to get lost." Jane said pulling her long sleeved top over her head. 

"It's going to be hot, even up here. Why the long sleeves?" Susan asked.

"We'll be dealing with Muslims. I don't know if they are Sunni or Shiite. I'm not rocking the apple-cart more than I have too. I want us to all get out of there alive. Remember most of the men still think it's the dark ages."

"Damn, I keep forgetting. All I brought were shorts."

"It's okay dear; you keep the getaway car running while I go get them. If they cause any problems... call in the Calvary."

"You're serious aren't you?" Susan asked surprised.

"Very... according to their laws, she's a piece of property. She'd have more status if she had a son first, but...."

"You're kidding?" Susan was shocked.

"Nope...! The reason they sent her over here was because she was seen being kissed by a boy. If it was more than a kiss they could have stoned her."

"Let's go get her. No woman should...!"

"I know, but it's expected. She was surprised to get the offer of marriage. She was too old. Old enough to bleed, old enough to breed is enforced." Jane went into the middle of the room and started stretching. 

Susan's eyes got big when she saw Jane go through her moves. Not only was she flexible, she was deceptively fast. "Damn, I hope you never use those moves on me... I'd never have a chance." 

Jane stopped and stood in front of Susan. "I'd never hurt you. I promise. I'll never raise a hand to you. The worse I'd ever do, is yell... Well, until you at least had a few lessons." She smiled to let her know she was kidding before leaning up and kissing her worry away. 

"Remind me to show you my sword when we get home. It's a real Samurai. My Sensei got it for me." She brushed a stray strand hair behind the taller woman's ear. "It's time to go."

"Damn, I thought I was here to protect you." Susan said as they left the room.

"You always need someone to watch your back. But that's not why I need you here." Jane said then grabbed her hand. "I'm going to be quiet until we get there. It's not you. It's just trying to be prepared for anything."

"Okay, I can deal with that." Susan said wondering about this new side of Jane.

Susan followed the directions on the GPS to the address they gave it. Susan heard Jane muttering, but kept her mind focused on the road.

Jane repeated. "Anger kills reason. Without reason there is no control. I must be in control." Over and over again.... She didn't know what she was going to find, but she kept her promises.

"Here's the place." Susan said. Jane just nodded and reached for the door. Susan grabbed her and kissed her hard.

"Be careful! I just found you. I don't want to lose you. I've waited 32 years to... Just be careful." Jane nodded and softly touched Susan's face.

Susan watched as Jane went up to the door and knock. An older woman answered. Susan wouldn't have recognized Jane's voice if she wasn't watching. She heard Jane tell the woman,

"I'm here for Reyna and Janna. Our Ummah sent me to get her." Susan saw the woman say something but she was stopped by Jane's hand in her face. She heard Jane yell.

"Reyna, Janna..., it's me Jane! Come on, we're leaving." Susan saw the three men coming out of another door and head towards Jane and she panicked. Pushing the big blue button she heard a disembodied voice.

"On Star, How may we help you renter?"

"Can you get the police here?"

"Yes, what is the nature of the emergency?"

"We're here to get my friend's sister and there are three men..."

"Do we need to call for medical aid?" 

"No, just the cops... Hurry please."

"They have been dispatched. We would advise you and your friend lock yourselves in the vehicle until they get there." The disembodied voice said. 

Jane didn't know Susan had called the cops, but by the time it was all done, she was glad she did. She knew she was going to have problems. Then she saw Reyna's bruised face and saw red. 

"Come on Rey, I'm taking you home. Do you have all your and Janna's stuff packed."

"She not goes anywhere. She belongs to us." The woman in front of Jane said.

"Don't make me hurt you." Jane said in a low voice full of suppressed anger. "I will if I have to, but I don't want to. I don't care if I have to tear this place down. My sister is coming with me!" She opened her arms and Rey ran to her. She hugged Jane with one arm and held a cute toddler in the other. 

"Janey, I..."

"Save it Rey. I want you to get in the car over there with the red headed woman in it. It's our ride. She's a friend." Jane started walking Reyna to the car as she saw the cop car pulling up.

"Dispatch, this is William Charlie 54. We're on scene... Oh shit, he's going to hit her." The officer in the passenger seat said.

"Ouch!" His partner said. "That's going to leave a mark. Tell them we're going to need medical."

"Um, Control, William Charlie 54 is going to need medical aid dispatched to this location." As soon as he let go of the microphone, "Damn, we better pull her off before she kills someone."




Forbidden



Jane saw the cops, but felt the threat. One of the men grabbed her arm and tried to pull Reyna away. Jane grabbed his thumb and yanked it back until she heard it pop. 

"Get your fucking hands off me." She hissed at the man.

"She no leaves... You woman, I'll see you beat for this." As he tried to stand, Jane dislocated his knee with a side kick. She knew she did it by his screams. 

"Get in the car Rey... I'll be right there." Jane said never taking her eyes off the men in front of her.

"She leaves, she is dead." Another man said.

"What? What did you say? Did you just threaten to kill my sister?"

"She's mine. I marry next week. Her boy is mine." 

"You fucking idiot... We're not in Jordan, Iran, Iraq or whatever God forsaken sand pile you're from. We are in the fucking United Stated of America, and she is my sister. If you want to kill her, you piece of shit, you'll have to go through me first." 

Jane knew he understood her insults as he grabbed a stick and came at her. It was what she was waiting for. As soon as he started his swing, her hand was already in motion. She let his momentum do the rest as she heard the shoulder pop and the thud as his ass hit the pavement. 

Putting her foot on his neck, she heard someone yell. "That's enough Ma'am.... We've got it from here. Go to your vehicle and wait for us please." Jane was pulled off by one of the cops and noticed the crowd gathering around the spectacle. 

"One rock comes my way and there will be hell to pay," Jane told the big burly cop. The guy on the ground saw the Star of David Jane had forgot to take off around her neck and spat. 

"Hebrew Bitch, you take piece of shit and her whelp. I will find and kill you all later."

"WHAT?" Jane screamed, lunging forward. 

"Shit..." the cop yelled "David! Call out more units... Now...!" Looking down at the irate man on the ground, he told him. "Alright mother fucker. You are under arrest for battery and making terrorist threats. You have the right to shut the fuck up... I suggest you use it!" 

The cop, David, was pulling Jane back, while watching the crowd. He shoved her into the SUV and told Susan. "I've got your tag number. Get them the hell out of here. Meet us back at our station house" He typed the address into the GPS and went to help his partner as sirens started wailing in the distance.

When Jane looked into the back seat, she was half tempted to go back and finish the job, but Susan took the cop's advice and drove them out of there as fast as she could. As she followed the directions the two other women got reacquainted. 

Jane was happy to see Reyna, but not the condition she was in. "Why didn't you call me sooner? I'd have come...!"

"I know, I could not... Janna, this is your Aunty Jane, Ummah sent her. She will take care of us." Reyna said diverting what Jane wanted to say. 

"Hi Janna, it is nice to meet you." Jane said to the little big eyed girl. "This is my friend Susan." Jane told her as Susan waved. Janna, being as shy as her mother once was, buried her head into the folds of Reyna's baggy clothes. 

"We'll stop at a store to get the right car-seat and her some other essentials as soon as we get done with the police." Susan said to Jane. 

"Yeah, let's get this done." Jane said she'd need to be careful what she said in front of the terrified child.

Four long hours and two borrowed pull-up's later, they were finally winding down all the interviews and statements. Janna had been looked over by health and welfare and they kept asking if Reyna wanted to press charges. They insisted in having an address for Reyna, just in case.

Jane just gave them hers as Rey explained. "My husband is dead. He is the one who beat me, so no charges." The cop David, while finishing up his report, had to ask Jane. 

"So why did you forget to take off your necklace in a place full of Muslims? We just about had a riot."

"I'm so used to it. My dad gave it to me at my Bat Mitzvah. I've worn it ever since." Jane explained while touching it. 

"Next time take it off or tape it to your skin. My wife sews a little pocket in my shirts for mine." He smiled.

"Oh, I didn't.... I don't think I'll be going back there. If Reyna needs anything, I'll get it for her."

"Are you two really sisters?" He was curious.

"No, I'm her American sister according to her mother. We met in high school. She's my best friend."

"I thought it was something along those lines. Don't let CPS know... Just keep the sister act going until you are out of this state, then live long and prosper." He chuckled at his own wit. 

"Shalom Mr. Schlock.... When can we leave? It's a long drive to Atlanta." 

"Just as soon as welfare releases her..." Just then Jane heard Reyna tell someone.

"No, I go with my sister to Atlanta. She has home for me."

"Well that should just about do it." David said as he shook Jane's hand. "So did you get trained by the Moussad? I've never seen someone put on their ass so easily." 

"Nope, Billy Chang's Martial Arts Academy..." Jane smiled as she went to gather Susan and Reyna. 

"Yeah, the same one Uncle Chiam went to." David said as he picked up his paperwork. "Good luck girls, something tells me you're going to need it." He headed back to patrol with an interesting story to tell his family when he got home. 

*** 

Before leavening town, Jane and Susan took Reyna and Janna on an expensive but necessary shopping trip. They bought the mandatory diapers, clothes, car seat and paraphernalia for Janna. Susan held the shy little girl while Jane dragged a reluctant Reyna in to the dressing room to try on new clothes which might actually fit.

Susan had no defense against the injured innocence she saw in Janna's eyes. At first, she wanted to do what was necessary, but no more. Janna's first smile, not matter how tremulous, shattered what reserve Susan had. Like the perfectly aimed arrow, it pierced her heart and she fell in love with the little girl. 

Seeing the same pain in the mother's eyes, Susan's heart opened to Reyna too. She could see why Jane had loved her for so long. Susan found a 'See-N-Say', which Janna fell for, and started listening to the animal sounds. At her first happy giggle, Susan knew she was lost. In less than a day, she couldn't see her life without this precious child in it.

Meanwhile in the dressing room, Jane was having an argument with Reyna's pride. Jane didn't want to suppress what little spark she had left, but she needed to get Reyna new things so they could travel. She didn't think her friend recognized just how bad she looked.

"Rey, don't be so stubborn. I can afford this stuff. You and Janna need it." Jane tried to reason with her friend.

"But Janey, I cannot pay you back. You came and got me. You have saved me. You have done enough. Maybe Ummah can send some money later, then I...?" Reyna pleaded.

"Rey, if you think I'm going to let you mope around in those rags.... You got another think coming. I can afford it and you need it." Jane said softly.

"But I...!" Reyna tried.

"But nothing...! Pick at least two outfits. We can talk more about this once we get home." Jane ordered gently, but firmly. "We have to get out of Cleveland before they find you and Janna."

"Okay, but you keep receipts. I will pay you back for everything as soon as I can." Reyna said lifting her head. They heard in the background. 

"The cat goes MEOWWWW" Then a happy giggle from Janna. Reyna almost ran out of the dressing area with tears in her eyes.

"The cow goes MMMOOOOOO" Susan said the moo with the toy with an exaggerated face making Janna laugh as Reyna came out to see her daughter giggling while the tall redhead, held her daughter. 

"Momma... Momma, look it!" A happy Janna said as she pulled the handle. "The sheep goes BBAAAHHHHHH" The toy said as Susan and Janna mimicked the noise and laughed. 

"It is first time she has laughed in months," Reyna said in tears. Jane smiled at the two, as Susan just winked at her. Reyna surrendered and let the two women get her what was needed without further complaint. No matter how much it cost her, it was worth it to see her daughter happy. 

Every couple of hours Jane and Susan would trade off driving. Janna was happy in her new car seat with its little steering wheel and horn until she dozed against the little teddy bear Jane had given her. While Susan drove, Jane and Reyna would talk quietly, catching up on each other's lives. During these conversations, Susan listened with interest. 

Before hitting Frankfort Kentucky, There was an accident and a truck was blocking the road. The police directed them to turn around. Jane decided they would find a hotel and sleep. Everyone was worn out and they knew the next few days weren't going to be any easier.

Once they checked in, Jane and Susan let Reyna and Janna use the tub and shower first. When Susan heard the water running, she came behind Jane and hugged her. Speaking softly in her ear, so she wouldn't be overheard, she told Jane.

"Well this isn't the way I envisioned sleeping with you the first time." As Jane turned, Susan kissed her softly and went on. "I can see why you've loved her for so long and little Janna is a doll. I'm glad I came..." She nuzzled Jane's neck and sighed heavily.

"Thank you so much for coming. I'd never made it without you." She hugged the taller woman, leaning her head on her firm breast. "You don't know what this means to me...."

"I have an idea." Susan kissed Jane on the top of her head as they separated when the water turned off. They took their showers quickly as Reyna settled Janna down with an apple juice and a story. 

As they prepared to go to bed, Jane was uncomfortable at first. She wasn't used to sharing a bed or wearing clothes to sleep in the summer. Then there was also the urge to let her hands wander as Susan slipped between the covers next to her. Added to her frustration, the confusion of having Reyna, the woman she had secretly loved for so long, in the same room. With everyone on edge, surprisingly, they all fell fast asleep. 

Later in the night, Janna had a bad dream and woke up. She slipped out of bed, and went to her new best friend, with the bright hair. She whimpered as she crawled in next to the tall woman who had made her want to smile. Susan woke up, saw Janna and invited her into her arms. She had no resistance to the little face with those big brown soulful eyes.

Reyna, realizing her daughter was missing, jolted awake. She feared the family had taken Janna from her. Sitting up she realized she wasn't trapped in the small room Janna and she had shared. Once her eyes adjusted, she saw Janna safely snuggled in Jane's friend's arms and sighed. 

She got up and joined the other women in their bed so she could be close enough to touch her daughter. She snuggled behind Jane who was spooned behind Susan who was holding the softly snoring, contented Janna. The rest of the night, they all slept peacefully, if a bit cramped. 

Susan sighed as she woke to a small set of lips kissing her nose. Opening her eyes slowly, her view was filled with the smiling face of Janna who was wide awake and ready to play. Groaning, she stretched, brushing against the still sleeping Jane and surprisingly, Reyna. She didn't know how they all ended up in bed together, and after thinking about it, it really didn't matter. 

Janna giggled and bounced on Susan, making her realize she needed to get to the bathroom or on the next bounce, there would be a mess. She held up the grinning, giggling Janna, as she scooted out off the bed. She sat her down next to Jane and pointed at her with the stay put motion. It took Janna all of ten seconds to disobey and follow Susan into the bathroom. 

Jane and Reyna woke up to the laughter and giggles of Susan and Janna in the bathroom as Susan tried to get a quick shower. Reyna smiled at Jane and hugged her tight in thanks. 

"I like your friend. Janna is happy, life is now good." Reyna said simply.

Jane was confused, she knew she had gone to bed with Susan, but was now waking up with Rey. Jane, on the verge of asking, when a wet, giggling, naked Janna, running from an equally wet but semi-covered Susan, bounced on the bed getting them wet.

"Come here you little imp..." Susan called quietly as she chased the little girl, towel in hand. "Oh, I was trying to keep the dervish here quiet so you could sleep. It looks like she has other plans though." Susan smiled reassuringly at Reyna. 

Reyna just nodded as she called her daughter to order and reached for the towel in Susan's hand. "She likes playing in bath. Thank you for...."

"It's okay... it wasn't like I had a choice." Susan grinned. Susan instinctively brushed Jane's hair back in a tender movement, but pulled back quickly when she saw her eyes go soft. She didn't know what to do.

Jane, seeing the startled response, covered the gaff by asking for coffee. They both looked at Reyna to see her response, but she was busy on the other bed, drying and braiding Janna's hair, while the child was pulling out one of her brand new outfits. 

They made an interesting procession as they trouped into the restaurant. Reyna looked much better after getting her long hair clean and braided, but the bruises on her face were still visible. Janna was pulling Susan and Jane, trying to hurry them up. All of them ignored their surroundings as everyone watched them as they ate breakfast.

The rest of the trip to Atlanta was better. They all took turns playing blue car, red car, with Janna, who was restless. Reyna was able to relax around Susan and Susan tried to keep Reyna in the conversations. If there was ever an awkward moment, Janna inevitably would bridge the gap as only a child can.

When they got to Jane's apartment, they settled Reyna and Janna as best they could. Jane told Reyna to make themselves at home, while she and Susan returned the rental and got Jane's car and Janna chased the cat.

"I have to take Susan home, so it might take me awhile. Look in the kitchen and start making a list of things we'll need for Janna. We can go to the store either tonight or tomorrow morning." She gave the stunned Reyna a quick hug as Susan gave Janna love and kisses goodbye.

Susan was quiet the whole time Jane conducted her business. She was pensive during the ride home. She didn't want to be alone and she didn't want to think about what happened next. The past few days they had been running on instinct and she knew it was time to pay the piper. When Jane pulled up in front of Susan's building she finally spoke.

"Please pull to the side and park. I want you to come up for a minute... Please." Jane nodded, lost in her own thoughts. Susan held Jane's hand as she led her up to her small apartment. Once she had shut her door, Susan leaned down and kissed Jane thoroughly. Before Jane could speak, Susan told her.

"I want to say so much. I've wanted to tell you how I feel. I want so much, but I don't have the words. So, let me show you what I can't say." Susan waited for the rejection. When it didn't come, she reached up with a trembling hand and opened the first button of Jane's blouse. 

Two hours later, Jane was sprawled across Susan's bed panting, holding the gasping Susan. She could feel parts of her body she'd never felt before. Emotionally she was just as spent. Jane had never felt so well loved in her life. Nothing came close in comparison. But, dwelling on it, only caused confusion.

Susan knew she had poured everything she felt into their lovemaking, but was surprised at the return. Jane refused to accept without giving. She knew she's have welts on her back and bottom from Jane holding her still as she gave as much as she received. What she thought was going to be a one-sided showing, was anything but. She thought it was intense with her previous lover Gail, this was mind boggling.

Jane tried to talk, but was instantly silenced by Susan. "Now isn't the time for decisions." She told Jane. "I just wanted you to know what's waiting for you. I know you have to do this and it will affect us. I'll wait as long as I can, but..."

"I love you too." Jane said simply. "I know it's... Thank you." Jane tried to express her feelings.

Susan's heart was pounding at the sound of Jane's declaration. She wiped the tears from her eyes. "I've never... You have to go, I know, but I don't want you to. I just couldn't face losing you without at least once... I'm sorry."

It was Jane's turn to sooth Susan. "Like you said, now isn't the time. We know and only time can tell. It's not like I'm leaving... I don't... Just kiss me."

Susan kissed Jane tenderly. The fire of before was gone, but the warmth of their emotions were there deeper and more meaningful. She pulled Jane up and pampered her in the shower. She wouldn't let Jane do anything but be ministered to. 

Susan, wrapped in her favorite robe, walked Jane to the door. "We'll talk tomorrow. I know you have to take care of Reyna and that precious child. There is time, but you have to go now." She kissed her quickly one last time before she forced herself to close the door.

Jane slowly walked back to her car, her mind spinning out of control. She knew it might have been easy to drift away from Susan had they not made love. But now, the thought of not having Susan, was totally out of the question. Her next thought, how could she hide her feelings from Reyna now they were going to be living together? Jane was glad they'd have the weekend to try and figure it out. She didn't want to think about how to handle work, and not be able to touch Susan all day.

***

They didn't know how they did it, but they had survived to the weekend. By the time they walked into work Monday, they no longer cared if someone saw them come in together. They were battle weary from the last five days. Jane thought they would be okay. But she was convinced, by a very upset Janna, the first thing in the morning, Susan had to come over. 

The rest of the week was spent shopping for food, bedding, safety locks and all the other stuff people don't realize is needed when a young child enters their life. Janna also thought Susan was her personal play friend and toy. They didn't want to upset her, but Susan had to go home to get work clothes. It was only by a team effort, all three overburdened women, made it. 

Being Monday, and knowing John was irritated with them. They tried to go to their desks, keep their heads down, and get through the day. They didn't expect John to be waiting for them.... As soon as they got out on the third floor, he pounced.

"Oh, the wandering duo has returned." John snapped at the pair. "Well don't stop now... Dean wants to see you in his office, before you get your stuff." He sneered. They turned back into the elevator and hit the button for the 16th floor. 

"I thought you cleared this with Dean?" Hissed a shocked Susan.

"I did. He said we could take a week if we needed it. He didn't sound upset..." She stopped speaking when other people entered the elevator. 

They smiled at the people they knew and wiped their hands from the sweat building up on their palms. When they got off, they walked up to the big rosewood desk, which Trish, the appointment assistant and all around bulldog for the big bosses, guarded.

"Yes John, they just arrived... Yes I'll tell him. No you don't needs to call security... If Dean needs them, he'll call. I'm sure Dean is aware of how you feel. I have to go, my other line is lighting up." She said as she disconnected from John's irate voice.

Sighing heavily, "That man is a pain in my ass." Trish said as she smiled up to Jane and Susan. "I don't know why he's being such a... Anyway, Dean wants to see you as soon as he comes... Speak of the devil."

"And he shall appear." A deep voice said behind them, making them jump. "Hi Susan... Jane. Give me a few minutes and then we can talk. Trish, hold my calls. I'll buzz when I'm ready." Dean smiled. 




Forbidden



Susan had never really met Dean before. Oh, she saw him around. He did make quite an impression at six foot five inches. Some said he played basketball in his younger days, and others said football. If it wasn't for his grey hair, Susan thought he could still be on the gridiron. 

Jane was nervous. She couldn't afford to lose her job. She now had three and a half mouths to feed. Her savings had taken a major hit. She wanted nothing more than to hold the just as frightened Susan's hand but knew better.

They jumped in their pacing as they heard the intercom. "He'll see you now.... Third door on the left." Trish directed them past her desk.

As they walked in, Dean was writing something in a file and closed it. "Sit, sit. Do you want some coffee?" He said as Jane saw her name on the file. Both women sat at the edge of their seats, smoothing down their skirts. Swallowing hard, Jane said.

"No, we might as well get on with it." Susan just shook her head in agreement. 

"You two look like someone kicked you dog. Relax; it's not the end of the world." Dean said smiling. "Wait. Let me guess. John got to you first?"

"Yes sir" Susan said.

"Figures.... Anyway, you can relax. We have some stuff to go over and then I want to hear about your trip so I can officially say I counseled you." He took a deep breath and let them know what he wanted.

"As you must have figured out by now, John wants you out of his unit. I've given it some thought and reviewed each of your files. I think I'm going to give him his wish..." He said looking at Jane first.

"Jane, how would like to take over the International Development Department? I know it is three steps up, but you meet all the requirements. You think you're up to the challenge?" The air whooshed out of Jane as 'Not fired... PROMOTED' screamed in her brain. 

"Yes... I'd need some time to get up to speed, but yeah I'd love the challenge." She smiled at Susan who looked stunned. "Is Susan coming with me?" Jane asked wondering why Susan was there if they weren't fired.

"Yes and no," Answered Dean. Holding up his hand he continued, "Susan will be moving to the sixth floor, but we need her skills in the contract renegotiation. The city is pushing the renewal of the bottoms and we are supporting them. We want Susan to be our public face in the contract negotiations. I'll be on the advisory board, but the ball would be in your court. You'd answer to me and Clark. I'm sure Legal will be there too, but it will be your baby." 

"But John..." Susan sputtered.

"Yeah, John..." Dean sighed. "Well, John is useful in his own way, but he'll never get any higher than he is right now. He'll retire where he's at, if he makes it that long. You two on the other hand, have a chance to advance. It isn't going to be easy, but if you prove yourselves... I'm sure there will be many other prime jobs opening up once the economy rebounds. It saves us from outsourcing these contracts which saves us a bundle."

"Why us...?" Jane had to ask. 

"Many reasons..." He said folding his hands on his desk. "I was already looking for someone suitable... My daughter was in the diner when you two handled the incident and threatened to withhold my grandpa privileges if I didn't so something nice for you. Once I looked at your files, I realized we've overlooked your potential. So killing two birds... Then John called... Everything just fit. So, that brings us to this prove it or lose it proposition I'm offering you." Dean smiled as he watched the women digest what he had said. 

Seeing he had them, he clapped his hands, stood up and said. "Okay then... You need to move your stuff to you new offices. I'll have someone meet you on the sixth floor and introduce you around. Then you can take the afternoon to get what you need from resources sent up. Susan, if you don't have any formal dresses, you'll need some. 50% can be reimbursed, so keep your receipts. Don't forget to check in with Tina in payroll."

Dean went around his desk and shook their hands. "Don't thank me yet..." He warned them. "These jobs might make the Spanish Inquisition look tame, but it's up to you. We can talk about the trip another time." He escorted them back to Trish's desk and picked up his messages.

"Knowing the office grapevine, you have about a half an hour to clean out your desks before John learns where you've landed. Use it wisely." Was Dean's parting shot, as Trish smiled up at them. 

"Well you ladies look in a better mood than when you went in. John, being the jerk he is, has had boxes put on your desks. If it was me, I'd let him think he's won until you head upstairs. Knowing him, he'll want to gloat." She smiled letting them figure the rest out. 

Jane and Susan went to the closest bathroom, looked around for a second and then squealed, doing the happy dance. "Oh my God...! Do you believe it?" Susan asked.

"No way, I thought we were toast." Jane said with a big smile. "Okay, okay... let's pull it together. We want to keep the proper bearing when we get our stuff."

"So how are you going to play it?" Susan asked starting the water.

"I'm not saying a word to anyone. Make them think... Meet you at the elevator?"

"Okay... Great... Let's do it." Susan added as she washed her face. 

So with faces masked and tight to hide the suppressed mirth, they headed down to the third floor. The elevator door opened with two security guards standing there waiting for them. They noticed John standing by his desk with a smirk on his face as he watched them go to their desks. 

The two guards, replete in their uniforms, looked on as the woman started putting their personal belongings into the boxes they had brought up. One leaned over and asked.

"Why we here anyway...?" His partner just shrugged.

"I guess so no one steals their stuff." They watched for a few more minutes, the taller one asked again.

"So, why are we here?"

"Because we get paid by the hour, and it's better than walking the parking lot. Besides the scenery is great...." He said nudging his partner, looking at Susan, who was bending over getting something out of the bottom drawer. 

Susan and Jane finished boxing their stuff and headed back to the elevator, not looking left or right at the open eyed stares. As they approached, the guards moved out of their way as one hit the call button. As they entered the lift, Carole, the chunky office fixture, came running up.

"Oh my god...! I've just heard. The sixth floor...." John had made ready to rebuke Carole until her words penetrated. "Congratulations girls. Call me and we'll meet for lunch soon. You know I'll want all the details." She grinned big and gave them the thumbs up signal. They noticed the look of complete and utter shock on John's face as the doors started closing before he could find his voice. 

They just waved as the door closed to the excited babble as the news swept the unit. Once the doors were closed, Jane and Susan busted out laughing. The guards just shrugged and looked around to get what few glances they could of the two attractive women they were escorting to their new offices. 

***

By the next weekend, everyone was looking forward to a break. Taking over the new jobs meant a significant increase in salary, but it also meant a much larger work load. Once Jane and Susan's parents got word of the promotions, they scheduled congratulatory dinner parties. Jane and Susan invited each other to their respective parent's houses and decided to bring Reyna and Janna with them just to get them out of the small apartment.

The first party was at Jane's parent's house. Where hamburgers, kosher hot dogs, fudge and sweet Latkes; were served up with a large helping of Jewish guilt.

"So why didn't you call your father and let him know you had to rescue Reyna?" Jane's mother asked as she passed out the dishes. "He could've helped you know. I almost had a heart attack when I heard." Then she directed her questions to Reyna.

"And you, Why didn't you call the first time he hit you? You know we love you like our own daughter... Some days even more... Well?" The plump woman asked as she played with Janna on her lap. "Especially when she brings us cute little grandbabies to visit..." Look at Susan she added. "And you dear, would you like some tea?" 

Sighing, and not realizing Rachael, Jane's mother, didn't want an answer. Reyna gave her the truth. "In our culture, it is allowed for a man to hit his wife if she misbehaves. He is master of house. I knew this, but I wanted children. As long as he was alive, I could do nothing. But, once he was killed, then the family was supposed to take care of me until either my family came to get me or they find a new suitable husband." Reyna motioned Janna over and sent her into the other room with her 'See-N-Say' so she could finish. 

"I only learned I was pregnant again the day after Rajah was killed. As soon as family heard, they decided it was boy, and it needed to stay with them. They say I become third wife of uncle. When I say no, Uncle beat me. Only then I could call my family to help. He is not husband and has no right to beat me." 

Jane had to interrupt, a second quicker than Susan, who was appalled. "Rey, you know better than that. You've lived in America for long enough to know our laws forbid a husband from hitting you!" 

"I know, but I am Jordanian by birth, and Ummah wanted me to be married to Muslim. It gave me Janna, and new baby. I am content." The discussion continued until it was time to go when Janna nodded off in her desert.

On the way home, Susan commented. "Your family is nice."

"My family is Jewish and all it implies." Jane said laughing. "Although thanks to Janna, we didn't go into our usual arguments and kept the volume down." Jane smiled at Susan.

"Yes, the first few times I visited, I was shocked at the yelling. But I was more shocked at the loving. They will yell and hug and kiss in equal measure." Reyna said quietly. 

"Well, don't expect quiet tomorrow at my folks house. Just by sheer numbers it's going to be loud. On the positive side, Janna will have other kids, dogs and a cat to play with, if she decides to grace us with her royal presence. Junior the cat that is... It should be fun." Susan was trying to reassure the startled Reyna. 

The next afternoon, with Janna in her arms, Susan led Jane and Reyna into complete chaos. As they approached the front door, it burst open with one boy in hot pursuit of his younger brother.

"James you dweeb, you give me it back." He yelled without a pause as he darted around the women. An older woman came to shut the door and called out when she saw her daughter.

"Justin, James, say hi to your Aunt Susan. That child! He never stops for a second. I don't know how Sharon keeps up. And who is this little darling?" She said as she came up to the shy Janna. 

"Hi mom, this is my friend Jane, her friend Reyna, and the one trying to burrow into my neck is little Janna." Susan said by way of introductions. 

"Oh, isn't she just precious... We need a few more little girls. We're boy heavy right now." Susan's mom said as they heard the next lap of the brothers chasing each other.

"You Dork! I said give it back...." One yelled as the other yelled back in a sing-song voice "Na Na na na na...! I'm telling; you have a girlfriend..." The younger and more agile brother teased as they zipped back into the house causing a breeze in their wake.  

"Welcome to pandemonium, but welcome all the same." Susan's mom said as she led them past a room where two different redheaded boys were wrestling each other for the remote.

"Boys... Boys!!! There is a new little one, so keep an eye out for her." Susan's mom clapped her hands to get their attention.

"Yes Ma'am," They intoned politely then went back to fighting over the remote. "I don't want to watch this lame show..." One said as they tumbled over the floor. 

"God... to have that kind of energy again..." She sighed. 

It took awhile, but soon Janna was running around with the rest of the younger kids. She was laughing with the rest of them, chasing the two little dogs and cat as the adults chatted, argued and laughed. 

Jane knew she'd never remember all the names. She remembered Susan's sisters Sharon, Sheila and Stephanie. She didn't even try their husbands yet. If she remembered right, she thought the brothers were Shaun, Steven and Shane. They all had varying degrees of red to blonde hair and acted just like they were, a big happy Irish American family.

They sat outside under the awning that kept the sun from beating down on them while Susan's dad maintained control of the big barbeque pit. There was laughter and teasing and good will. Two of the men made a scene when they carried a big cooler around the back calling.

"Oy, we've got the Guinness. And the soda and swill for the kiddies and ladies. Okay, okay... the Wine!" The parents laughed and the kids looked at them like they were from another planet. Jane and Reyna stayed close, they had never been the center of attention of so many people before. Everyone wanted to know all about then.

Reyna had a hard time with the men. They all wanted to know who gave her the fading bruises, so they could go and repay the favor. It was possibly the first time Reyna had ever received truly positive attention from so many males. Shane said it the best when he proclaimed.

"Lucky Bastard, if he wasn't already dead, he soon would be... No man should hit a woman." He was seconded by the women. 

"Why didn't you introduce him to the back side of a frying pan? A good conk on the bean should've gotten his attention. They do have to sleep you know." Sharon said looking at her husband meaningfully.

Reyna, not knowing how to respond, instead told the story of how Jane had knocked down the uncle and his oldest son. The story caused Jane to blush and with proper embellishments from Susan, it caused everyone to laugh even harder as they teased Jane.

When it got suspiciously quiet, Susan took Reyna to find her daughter. They found her in the middle of a tangle of bodies, as the kids and animals were all sound asleep in the middle of the living room floor. The bigger kids had moved their activities to let the little ones sleep in peace.

Susan's youngest brother, and family trouble maker, Steven, even had the audacity to ask. "So which one is yours, Suzy, so I can hit on the other one?" He openly ogled both unsuspecting women, and added. "Good taste sis." This of course, made Susan blush. But then again, that's what he was trying to do. 

When it was time to go, it took half an hour to give the mandatory hugs all the way around. They bundled a groggy Janna, in a borrowed light blanket so she could sleep on the way home. 

When they got to the quiet of the car, Jane's head still spun. Reyna just looked shell shocked. She had been used to being in a large group, but never in the middle of such a boisterous one. She'd never been hugged so many times in one day. 

"How often do they get together like that?" Jane asked as she drove them towards Susan's house.

"Only about every chance they get. It's harder now. Shaun is looking at having to move to Chattanooga for work, but it's only three hours away. Sharon is helping him relocate. I don't envy his gas bill." She said leaning her head back and closing her eyes. It had only been since Easter since the last family party, and even she was worn out.

***

Over the next few weeks, Jane and Susan, or Aunty Shoezy, as Janna had started calling her, tried to find their equilibrium. They signed Reyna up for prenatal care with a good female OB/GYN, who was concerned about the damage that might have been done with the beatings. She wanted Reyna to take it easy until she could get all of the tests back. 

Those instructions caused a problem. Jane's apartment had never been so clean. It was getting cluttered, but it was spotless. Jane was sleeping in her chair more often than not, so Janna and Reyna could have the bed. This was grudgingly accepted, but not liked by Reyna.

The stress of the new job and living situation was also affecting Jane's relationship with Susan. They found what little time they could, but Jane had started feeling like she was having an illicit affair where she had to sneak off to see Susan. 

Her mistake was telling Susan one day about a month later. Getting tired of the sneaking around, she wanted.... She didn't know what she wanted. She knew Reyna could never know her true feelings, but then again she knew she's falling stone cold 'In Love' with Susan too.

She drove over to Susan's place after work on Friday with the intent of asking her to spend the weekend. They wanted to take Janna to the park and Jane needed to be close to her lover. She knew she was tired and Susan was too. She didn't get three steps into her apartment.

"Hey Baby," Jane said as she hugged Susan, who looked just as burned out.

"Hey yourself..." Susan hugged Jane back, wondering if they had enough energy to get rid of the overflowing desire that had built us since their last love making session.

"God I miss you... I hate hiding us... It's like were having an affair and all this sneaking around makes me feel guilty." Jane said not realizing she had hit a sore spot with Susan.

"Why, there's nothing to be guilty about." He voice dropped three degrees. "Unless you'd rather be with someone else," she asked, her voice going cold. It wasn't often, but there were just some things that got Susan's Irish up and cheating was one of them. It went downhill from there. 

Jane was still crying as she drove home. She knew she had to be calm when she went into the apartment. She didn't want Reyna to know. It's part of Jane's problem, as long as Susan was in the picture, she never take anything further with Rey. As if she knew Reyna even wanted a physical relationship with her. Was she willing to lose Susan over a maybe? She was confused, and after the fight, hurt.

She brushed her hair back and shook her head, trying to clear it before she opened the door. She was greeted by the smell of something good and an excited Janna. 

"Aunty Janey... Aunty Janey..." She'd scream as she ran as fast as her little legs would carry her. Jane would drop her case and scoop up the precocious child. "Where's Aunty Shoezy?" She asked looking for her favorite person.

"She had some stuff to do. She might come later." Jane fibbed; not having the heart to tell her Susan might not come over that weekend. 

"Janna...!" Reyna called to her daughter. "Go to room and play. Shut door, I need to talk to Aunty Janey."

"Okay Mommy. Am I in trouble?" She asked confused.

"No, sweetie," Jane said. "Your mommy and I have to talk, is all." Jane reassured Janna.

"Kay, can I watch my video?" She asked knowing video time was usually after dinner.

"Yes, I'll be right in..." She told her daughter. "You sit!" Reyna added to Jane who had never heard such a tone from Rey before. Jane grabbed a glass of wine and waited for Reyna.

She didn't have to wait long. Reyna softly closed the bedroom door and stalked over to Jane. "Where is your lover Susan?" She asked without preamble

"She's... What? How? I... We had a fight." Jane sputtered. "How did you...?"

"What? Do you think I never learned what the word Lesbian mean? It was first new word I learned after I met you. I cook good meal, clean room and you have fight with lover? What is wrong with you?"

"Damn it Rey, You're not my servant... I've told you a million times...!"

"Like you cook... Like you clean.... You sleep in small chair so Janna have bed. You save me and my daughter and I cannot thank you? We need big house. I was going to talk to you and Susan this weekend." She said a lot more, but Jane didn't speak Arabic, but she got the gist, Reyna was pissed.




Forbidden



Maria Maranzano stood on her balcony over looking the vast grounds below dressed in a long white robe, her long dark curly hair let loose down her slim shoulders, inhaling softly deep in thought "Palermo, her home town in Sicily, her roots her origins all started here and all shall end here, her father Luca Maranzano made sure she was kept and stored here within these walls in Sicily, a very known "mafiosa padrone." Luca Maranzano was not a man to be tampered with. A widow with no sons and just his beloved Maria beside him, he watched her like a prison guard."

A loud commotion below disturbed her thoughts, looking down she saw two men standing in the driveway shouting at her father's right hand man Gino, one of the men specifically caught her attention, a young man dressed in a white shirt, black pants and extremely handsome. Quickly turning inside she rushed to get fully dressed wanting to reach her father's study before they left, she needed a better look at this young man.

Salvatore Masseria known as Sal looked up and caught a glimpse of the beauty standing overhead, before he had a chance to examine her more, she had fled inside away from his gaze. He wondered was she one of Luca's little whores? For the man was famous for the beauties he kept at his side.

Rushing down the stairs dressed now in a short black dress, not too sexy and not too simple, Maria entered her father's study to find him sitting there with one of his friends Marco. 

"Buongiorno padre." she stepped closer to her father and kissed his forehead. 

Turning towards Marco she nodded her head replying to Marco's Buongiorno Maria. Turning back to her father she sat beside him on his arm rest smiling down at him.

"Padre I wondered if I could go into town today, I would like to do some shopping?" 

Luca replied, "my sweet Maria, of course, but you must take Antonio with you."

"Ma padre!" 

Maria's words were lost when he interrupted her by saying, "don't ma padre me Maria, Antonio escorts you or no town!, that is my final word."

Pouting Maria dropped her head, "as you wish padre, Grazie."

Suddenly there was a knock on the door and Gino came in, nodding his head at Maria he turned towards her father.

"Padrone, Salvatore Masseria is here, he wishes to talk to you and he simply won't leave."

"What does that figlio di puttana (son of a bitch) want?" 

"He says that he bears a message from his father." was Gino's reply.

"Let him in, the faster I hear the message the faster he leaves my home." said Luca. 

Nodding, Gino turned towards the doors and knocked two times on it, meaning that they should send him in. the doors opened and Salvatore strolled in, Maria's eyes widened, she had heard of her father's rivals and she knew the Masseria family was one of them, but this man was simply handsome, beautiful and most interesting.

"Speak Up. What do you want Salvatore? What is this message your father has sent me?" luca's thick voice rose.

"At least let me say Buongiorno to you and your friends, but since you want to get straight to the chase, my father sends you this message, Luca I advise you to keep your people off my grounds or you shall bear the consequences, last time I forgave your interruption next time I shan't." came Salvatore's quick statement.

Swiftly rising from his seat Luca came to stand before the young man. 

"You must be very brave coming into my house and giving me this message, and for that I will not kill you, tell your father that he should look around his men and find out who is in whose business. Now Esci!! (get out) before I change my mind and kill you boy."

Unmoved by the man's threats, Salvatore kept looking him straight in the eyes, nodded his head and slowly turned, his eyes coming to Maria a devilish smile rose upon his lips. 

"Good day" he said as he walked out of the room

Maria felt her heart leap at the sight of his smile, his eyes, his lips, the way he looked unaffected by her father's threats. He was indeed brave standing before her father like that, no man or boy had the courage to look Luca in the eyes.

Turning towards Maria her father said, "Gino, tell Antonio to accompany my daughter into town she wishes to go shopping. Now Maria if you would please leave us we have some work to discuss."

Nodding her head Maria moved to her father, kissed his forehead and silently left the room, she knew now wasn't a time to be around.

The meeting

***********

The drive into town was a quiet one. Antonio never said a word on both ways, he was just her watchdog.

Maria spent a few hours walking in and out of shops buying and enjoying the warm weather, deciding to sit at a little café to have something cold to drink, Antonio looked at her disapprovingly, arching her eyebrows she turned her head and walked into the café. She needed this drink and she was going to have it, no matter what.

Salvatore stood there, he was extremely shocked to see her in town, he noticed the watchdog nearby and decided to wait for her to enter the next shop then he would capture this beauty without being interrupted. 

Maria paid her bill and walked towards Antonio.

"I'm going into that lingerie shop, wait for me here please."

Sal saw her walk into the lingerie shop. 

"Mmm this should be interesting, it is owned by one of his friends and he could sneak in through the back way." starting his car he quickly sped to the back alley where the back door was. 

Maria ran her fingers along a white sheer lace baby doll, the material felt so soft and sexy beneath her fingers, she knew it would fit her perfectly. Taking it off the hanger she showed it to the attendant, and was led towards the changing rooms to try it on.

Stripping of her clothes, she stood there in just her black g-string, sliding the cool material down on her, it felt amazing on her skin, she smiled and turned towards the mirror then gasped.

Standing there with the curtains open a bit was Salvatore.

"Beautiful!" was all he said as he stepped inside the stall .

"Get out!" she screamed out, trying to cover her body with her shirt.

"No I won't get out, I was curious to see what Luca has seen in you so that he keeps you at his side in his home."

"You think I am one of Luca's whor.. Whores?" she stammered out.

"Then what are you if not his Whore?"

"I'm his daughter!" Maria's head rose with pride.

Stepping even closer towards her, Maria stepping back towards the wall till she hit it, his hands came on both sides of her head, his hand reaching for the shirt she clutched in her hands, tugging at it and throwing it aside. 

"You don't need this I want to see you."

"Get out before I yell." she barely whispered out, her heart hammering in her chest.

"First I want a kiss and then your name and besides my dear no one will call your watchdog because you are in my territory my dear."

Leaning forward, his lips brushed on hers, his hands cupping her face as he kept her there, she moaned beneath him, "her first kiss" her mind kept screaming "amazing!!" 

Sal felt a hard jolt of lightning pass through him, her lips, never had he kissed softer lips, he wanted more, pushing himself into her he pressed her further against the wall his hands leaving her face down to her neck, her shoulders , her sides, his kiss deepening, and his arousal throbbing. He felt her response and it drove him to mad.

Breaking his lips from hers panting, "Oh my god! You are sweeter than honey; tell me your name please."

"Maria, my name is Maria." was all she could say, for she felt as ruffled as he.

"Maria." he repeated her name huskily. 

"Meet me at the vineyard near your house, tonight at 7 please."

"Perche? (why?)" 

"Because I want to see you Maria, from the first moment I saw you on the balcony at your house you intrigued me, even as I was talking to your father it took all my will power not to look at you, to approach you! Per favor Maria, per favor, I'm begging you."

"Si, I will see what I can do." thoughts rushing through her mind, she knew this was wrong yet she had felt the same thing when she first saw Sal.

Leaning in he whispered, "Grazie Mille." just before his lips touched hers once more, his hands now holding her sides, bring her in further for the passionate kiss that enveloped them.

Maria's arms went instantly around his neck, her whole being coming alive, a feeling so new to her, a passion she had only read about in books and seen in movies wrapped around her soul.

He then broke the kiss, "Maria you do not know, what you do to me, how much I would love to take you here and now, to love you, to have you, amore mio! But I must leave you now before I lose all my senses and do just that."

Whimpering her protest as he drew away from her, Maria's heart beating so fast she felt as though she had run a thousand miles.

"Questa notte, amore mio" (tonight, my love) he kissed her one last time before he turned and slipped out of the stall as quietly as he had come in.

Gathering her wits, Maria quickly changed back into her clothes, she quickly paid for the garment she had chose, keeping her head low avoiding the eyes of the shopkeeper, and swiftly went to the car.

"Are you ok Maria?" Antonio asked.

"you were in there quite a long time."

"I'm fine Antonio, there was just a wide variety of things, take me home please."

The love begins

*************

"Padre I'm going out for a walk, and I would like to go alone." Maria announced to her father.

"Che?" (what?)

"You heard me, I am going for a walk on the grounds and I do not want any watchdog with me, I am tired of having them lurking around my every step."

"Well, since you will be on the grounds, then there is no need for anyone or shall I say a watchdog as you call them Maria."

"Grazie padre, I just want to be alone for a while, and I won't stray far, I promise." she said happily leaning down to kiss her father's forehead.

"Bene, now go, I have business with Gino and Antonio."

Maria happily rushed out of her father's study and dreamingly walked towards the vineyard. She knew there was an empty cabin there, which no one used, it was a perfect place. She could not believe how strongly her heart was beating, could it really be love? She pondered, or was it just a new feeling to her that she didn't understand. But she had seen, she had seen that look in Sal's eyes, a look she had never seen before. Men have looked at Maria with lustful eyes, many men in fact, but they dared not approach, for her father would have had them all killed. 

Her father! She stopped in her tracks." What would he do? Would he kill Sal? Would he kill her? No! She was his only daughter, he loved her, he wouldn't do that, he would understand love; he would forgive her IF he ever knew."

She resumed her walking towards the vineyard.

"She came!"

Sal could see her walking towards the vineyard, her figure couldn't be mistaken, his heart thundering, joy and happiness rushing through him. Something was so new with Maria, he had had many women before and with none had he felt such a jolt of joy and happiness. He even overlooked the fact that her family was a sworn enemy of his, he just wanted her, wanted to hold her, kiss her, feel her and most of all love her.

As she saw him, she smiled, he was standing there reclining against a tree, his hair all ruffled, a smile so wickedly beautiful on his face, his eyes gleaming in the dusk light. As she approached him, he stood tall, coming towards her, his face joyful, setting a fire aflame in Maria's heart.

"Maria! Amore mio, you came, you came to me."

"Si, how could I not Salvatore."

"Sal! Maria, call me Sal." he whispered as he leaned in to kiss her lovely lips.

"Sal." she managed to whisper against his lips.

Taking her hands, he broke the kiss, "come Maria."

Happily being led by him she knew where they were heading to.

Sal opened the cabins door, she noticed it was neat and clean, someone was here before, it was clean and candles were lit everywhere.

"Sal? You did this?"

"Si Maria, I came here earlier to prepare." he smiled down at her.

Closing the door softly he turned towards her, wrapping her in his arms he leaned down and kissed her lips once more. 

When the kiss was broken he finally managed to ask, "Maria what have you done to me?"

"Niente (nothing). It is you who has done to me Sal."

"Maria, you do understand I want to make love to you, to feel you, to kiss you, to have you?"

"Yes Sal I know that, I have thought about it all day and I want it to, even if it is just for tonight, I want to be with you."

"It will not only be tonight, I want you to come and meet me here every day Maria."

"Sal, it could be dangerous."

"I don't care Maria."

With those words her hands reached for his face and brought his lips back to hers, kissing him passionately. 

"Sal, por favore, make love to me! ora come ora!! (right now)"

Words were not needed, quickly Sal let her towards the little bed in the corner of the cabin, his hands running down her body, slowly stripping her of the dress she wore, only to discover she wore the baby doll he had seen her in earlier.

Whispering his words of approval as he kissed down her shoulders, slowly sliding the baby doll down each shoulder till it fell to her feet at the floor. 

Sal stood back looking at her, "oh my god, a vision, she had no faults, her body perfect, her skin so tanned and soft, he had to go slow, he knew this was her first time from the way she blushed, the way she had responded to him."

"Maria, lay back for me."

"I will when you are naked for me Sal, I want to see you too."

Sal practically ripped his clothes off, stripping naked till he was as bare as her. Standing before her, he did a little turn. 

"Happy now?"

"No." she said as she approached him, her fingers running down his bare chest, her lips tasting his skin. 

"Maria!"

"Shhhh." she said as her lips resumed their exploring, her hands however went lower to touch his thighs, then up to his throbbing erection which stood proudly between them, her finger tips shyly brushing against it.

Sal gasped and closed his eyes.

"Am I hurting you?"

"No Maria."

She them wrapped her small fingers around him, feeling the power he held there, watching his expressions as she caressed him slowly.

"Maria!" was all he said as he grabbed her by the shoulders and brought her in for another kiss, this kiss more deep more demanding, his tongue probing her lips, running against hers.

Lifting her gently he took her to the bed, laying her down he came to kneel down beside her. His lips once more capturing hers as his hand stroked down her chest, down to her breast, he caressed her, felt her nipple then slowly tugging at it. Feeling each breast at a time, his lips then kissed down her throat, and lower till they joined his hand at her breast, he tasted her.

Maria's gasps and moans were the only thing heard besides his harsh breathing, her body arching gently and when his lips went lower to her tummy, around her navel he traced his tongue then he slid lower on the bed till he was kneeling between her open thighs facing her neatly trimmed womanhood.

Inhaling her sent Sal smelt her arousal, slowly so he wouldn't frighten her his lips touched her, gently tasting and licking, finding her swollen bud, he licked at it, his hands coming to hold her hips firm as she bucked and thrashed below him.

Her hands instinctively reached for his hair, desperately wanting more and more of him, this amazing flood of head rushing through every cell and vein in her body, she screamed out "My God" as she felt a thundering release overtake her.

"Maria, amore mio, I can't hold on much longer, I need you now!" Sal's plea rang through her ears, as his body was shaking with desire for her, her release shook him senseless

"Take me now Sal."

Gently he kissed back up her skin till his lips found hers, positioning himself between her thighs he caressed his tip against her, lubricating himself so the pain would be less. 

"It will hurt, just for a bit Maria." 

Gently he eased himself within her, feeling the barrier of her virginity; looking into her eyes she nodded her head at him and with one single push he broke past her hymen and tightness enveloped him.

Maria's gasp of pain was lost as Sal's lips closed over hers, her eyes widened yet the feeling subsided as she began to feel full. 

"Maria, are you ok, I'm sorry I hurt you, but I promise it will feel better."

"I'm fine Sal, the pain has gone, just give me a few seconds to get used to you in me." she smiled back reassuringly.

"Just kiss me now."

Seconds later her hips began to rock beneath him, showing him she had accepted the new feeling, Sal's patience broke and with that he began moving gently inside her, with his lips he kissed her face, her throat and with his hands he touched her body. her moans of pleasure ringing in his ears as his little grunts echoed about the room, slowly he made love to her, making her climax one more time, her walls becoming even tighter about him he couldn't hold on much longer.

He sat back gripped her hips, and faster he stroked himself within her, faster and faster till his body shook and arched, a deep moan escaping his lips joined with the word "Maria." Quickly slipping out of her fearing pregnancy he shot his seed on her beautify tummy, his eyes closed his breath heavy.

Her whole body shook as Sal's seed touched her, the heat sinking through her flesh warming her, igniting new feelings.

Sal fell beside her, his breath ragged.

"Maria, I'm sorry it was fast, but I couldn't hold myself."

"Shhh, it was perfect and besides you have much time to show me more." she giggled.

They spent two more hours that night exploring each other till it was time for her to return home so no one would notice her long absence. As they parted, they decided to meet the second day at the same time, kissing each other breathless.



The Discovery

**************

A week had passed and every day Sal and Maria had been meeting at the cabin, as they lay down, spent and exhausted from their lovemaking. 

Sal turned towards Maria saying, "Maria, tiamo, from the very first moment I saw you I have loved you."

"I love you too Sal, so much." she kissed him holding him closer to her heart.

"Per sempre, Maria."

"Forever Sal, no matter what."

Antonio rushed back to the villa gathering Gino and some thugs, he saw Salvatore go into the cabin, her father had asked him to follow his daughter today, he had said, "he had a feeling." and the Padrone was not going to be happy with what they had just discovered.

Gino had gone in to the Padrone's study and he heard the shouts and screams of a madman and knew Maria was doomed, then suddenly the door flung open and out walked Luca with Gino white-faced at his side. 

"Let's go to her NOW!!" yelled Luca.

They walked in silence, till they reached the cabin, then Luca ordered them to stay outside, he opened the cabin door and walked in, looking down at his daughter's barely covered body sleeping next to the bastard he hated.

Slamming a chair to the floor he woke them both from their sleep, and he stood towering the bed, as Gino rushed to his side, aiming his gun at Salvatore.

"Well, well well. What do I have here? My daughter the baldracca (whore) and the figlio di puttana (Sob). How very interesting."

Maria's scream was instinctive, "Padre!"

Sal's reaction was to cover Maria with his arms, fear gripping through him as he knew this was the end.

Maria began to speak yet her father's silenced her by saying. 

"Silenzio baldracca! You dare speak to me? After what you have done. You have brought shame to my family, you are fucking the enemy, you whore, you slut."

"Don't call her a whore! I love her and she loves me." was Sal's response.




Forbidden



"You! You bastard, Love is that what you call it?" rasped Luca. 

"you are on my grounds, and that is reason enough to have you killed."

"Padre, No!" screamed Maria.

"You whore, get dressed and I will deal with you after I have dealt with this Bastardo."

"Non voglio (I don't want) non puoi controllarmi (you cannot control me) I love him padre, por favore."

"You dare define me? You slut? Don't you know that I have no mercy? That you are just like your mother? A slut, and where is your mother now? Where I put her!" replied Luca his face black as the night.

Fear shook through Maria, he had killed her mother so would not hesitate to kill her. But she loved Sal and no matter what she would be with him.

"Then if you kill him, you kill me too." replied Maria tears streaming down her face.

"Maria, No, amore mio, por favore." Sal's heart slammed in his chest as he heard her words.

"Si, Sal, I said forever and I meant it."

Turning his back on them, Luca looked at Gino, he nodded his head, his orders given. 

As he reached the door Maria screamed out to him, "padre, Tiamo."

Through the vineyard 2 gun shots were heard, each shot right inside the heart of each lover. Their ending together was as merciless as their beginning. 

The second day the Masseria family found their son's body thrown in the gutters of their limits, with a note on it.

"Death to the son of a bitch."

Luca

*****

A year later Luca was assassinated in his own bed; no one knew who killed him. The only thing they found was the murder weapon, it was cleaned of all marks and finger prints. The end of the Maranzano family was that day, Gino his right hand took care of the family business till it was ended a few years later by his death.