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Mike & Mary

By: venus_can



The warm rays of the early summer sun felt nice on my skin. I was lying in my backyard, trying to get rid of the last of my tan lines. Lying nude, sipping on a cold long-island iced tea, I reflected on my life.

It has been over five years since I left my husband of thirty years. The last of our three children had left and Tom and I finally confronted the truth. I walked out one day, never to turn back. 

I have been interested in tattoos and body piercings and thanks to my new found independence, I have been able to indulge in both. My latest tattoo is a pair of dolphins just above my pussy lips. I am also considering piercing my nipples, to complement the navel ring. 

A combination of diet and exercise along with help from modern medicine has transformed me from an overweight housewife to a sexy vixen. At 55, my breasts are a perfect perky 34Cs.

My daydreams were rudely interrupted when I heard the doorbell ring followed by loud thumping of the door. 

"Who the fuck is it?" I muttered as I draped a towel and went in to open the door.

A young kid, I guessed probably 18, was standing at the door. He was dressed in a pair of shorts and a muscle shirt. His biceps bulged, with arms thick as a tree trunk.

"Hi, I am Mike." he introduced himself, "I live next door."

"Nice meeting you Mike," I responded automatically, extending my hand, "I am Mary."

"I was wondering if I could mow your lawn?" Mike continued, "I am a student at the local college and I could use some cash."

His smile was warm and his grip strong. His touch was electric and I suddenly felt weak in my knees. I was becoming aware of a warm wet sensation between my legs. 

Oh my God... I had to remind myself he was at least 15 years younger than my youngest son.

"Sure" I nodded.

"Do you trim bushes too?," I continued, suppressing a smile, noticing a slight bulge in his crotch.

"Sure. It is 5 bucks per cut or 100 bucks for the whole season." he looked flustered.

"Why don't you cut the grass now?" I suggested, "then we can discuss the price."

He nodded and started to cut the grass. I went back and lay in the sun again. I could not get Mike's body off my mind.

A short while later, the doorbell rang again and I opened the door wrapped in a towel. There was Mike again, standing there. This time he had his shirt off, revealing his strong upper body and a hairless chest.

"Come on in Mike" I let him in, standing aside as I closed the door.

His body briefly brushed against mine, raising my heart rate a notch.

As I moved, the towel parted, giving Mike a good look at my tanned toned thighs. I saw his eyes widen and some red creep into his face. I noticed a more prominent bulge developing in his pants. It was intoxicating that I could arouse this young man.

"Help yourself to a cold drink from the fridge," I said pointing to the kitchen, "while I get dressed"

I moved to the bedroom and dropped my towel. 

Before wearing my skirt and top, I looked at myself in the mirror. As I cast a critical eye on my reflection, I suddenly noticed Mike's reflection. 

He was holding a can of pop in one hand, stroking himself with the other. 

"Sorry, " he was all red in his face, "I wanted to ask what you would like to drink?"

"Haven't you seen a naked woman before?" I asked, knowing full well that Mike would have no problem getting a woman to bed.

His response surprised me.

"I have, but none as pretty as you." 

"Wow" he continued, his eyes bulging in admiration, "you have no tan lines!"

The bulge in his shorts was much more pronounced now. He made no attempts to hide it either.

"Well," I moved close to him, "how about showing me yours?" 

His face turned red. 

I ran my fingers over his chest and ran my tongue over his nipples. They got harder. 

I inserted a finger in my wet pussy and waved it under his nose.

I bent down and ran my fingers over his bulging cock. 

I grabbed his shorts with my teeth and pulled them down. His bulging cock was begging to be released from his jockeys. I wrapped my mouth around his cock through his underpants. I could see the pre-cum stain the fabric.

I brought up my hands and pulled down his underwear, exposing his cock.

I gasped at the size. It was at least 7 inches long and 2 inches thick. I took him fully inside my mouth, playing all the while with my tongue. 

I moved down further, teasing his balls with my tongue. I sucked on them, playing with them in my mouth, feeling the youth and vitality. A few hairs got between teeth.

"See?" I held them up, "Gotta shave the hairs off."

In a sudden move, he reached down and pushed me down on my back. He held his penis in his hand and inserted it into my vagina. It went in easily. He withdrew and just as he was about to re-insert, cum spurted out from his cock. His erection disappeared as his cock went flaccid.

Tears welled up in his eyes and Mike was crestfallen.

I felt sorry for him. 

I took his hand in mine. I rubbed it around my thighs and then into my pussy. 

"Foreplay is everything Mike. Relax and enjoy," I counseled.

"I gotta pee," Mike said, "can I use your bathroom please?"

"Sure." I held his cock in my hand and led him to the bathroom.

I held on to his cock and pointed it to the bowl. I massaged his shaft as I felt it stir again.

A powerful stream of urine emanated from the slit. I could feel the strength returning. After he wiped the last drops, I pushed him aside and stood over the bowl, letting myself go. After I had wiped myself clean and flushed the toilet, we came out.

I marveled at his youthful vitality as his cock was beginning to get hard again. 

I massaged his shaft with my hands.

"This time let me take the lead" I suggested. 

I pushed him down on the floor. 

I took his erect penis in my mouth and ran my tongue up and down the erect member. 

I slipped my hand underneath and my fingers probed his anus. I thrust my finger deep inside him as my mouth moved up and down his shaft.

My movements were well co-ordinated, his thick long shaft deep in my mouth, my finger deep in his ass.

My movements increased slowly and steadily, until they became faster and faster. 

I felt his muscles tense as his back arched ever so slightly. 

He came. Hard. Copious amounts of cum spilled out. I swallowed all of it. Tasting the slightly salty fluid, I licked the excess around my mouth.

"Now can I return the favor?" Mike wanted to know.

"You bet!" I opened my legs wide to permit his head between them. 

I wrapped my legs around his head and he proceeded to lick my pussy. He was a quick study. He worked his magic with his tongue and then fingers.

I pushed him away when I realized I was about to reach an orgasm. 

I marveled again at his youth as his cock was already erect and ready for action. 

I climbed on top, impaling myself on the erect cock. As I rode his cock, faster and faster, his hands played with my nipples, teasing them into a frenzy. 

I felt him tense, just about the same time, I felt my muscles tense, then as suddenly relax. Both of us climaxed at the same time, covering out bodies with our fluids.

As we lay spent, cuddled in each others arms, I said, "now about the price..."

Mike and Mary



I am Mike. I grew up in a small town that was so far out in the middle of nowhere that we were heading back in on the other side. If you farted on the south side of town, they knew about it on the north side within 5 minutes. We did not have a stop light in town, just a 4 way stop at the square.

I was never a person that someone would notice. Average is the best way to describe me. Height, weight, looks, you name it, YEP I was average. I could stand alone in the middle of a stadium and no one would take notice. I was however smarter than most, and my sense of humor was top notch. I had a few good friends, but we all were about the same, average. 

I graduated high school somewhere near the top of my class, and went to work for a local photographer. He worked as an industrial photographer, would only do a wedding as a favor to a good friend. I was just a go-fer for about a year, learning the equipment, helping to set up shoots and carrying the extra equipment on jobs. The pay was OK, but nothing to get excited about. Since I lived at home with my folks, I did not need a lot of money, so I saved as much as I could. 

The fellow I worked for was getting on in years, and did not want to be out on a limb with his customers if he ran into a health problem. He taught me the same way he had learned; slow but sure, master one thing and then go on to the next. He was happy with my progress and had started to allow me to shoot some simple jobs. Life was good!

Then in 1991 we had that awful day, September 11th. To say I was angry that it had happened is an understatement. I had to do something, so I decided to sign up for the National Guard. Except for church on Sunday my weekends were free most of the time, so why not. And the extra money went right into savings. I wanted to buy my own place, just needed a little more for the down payment. 

Life was still good; I had a job, a car, money in the bank and some true friends. What else could you want? 

Well, I like girls but never met any that took to me. Mom and Dad married in their early 30's, so I figured that it would be that way with me too. 

When I returned from basic training my friends threw a party to welcome me back. No one had thrown a party like that for me. Birthdays in my family were a quiet dinner at home, your favorite meal of course. And, you got to choose the dessert. My sister and I always loved mom's cakes. I always chose yellow with butter cream frosting, my mouth is watering. My sister loved German Chocolate. On my father's birthday he was quite partial to Mom's Rhubarb Cream Pie, warm with vanilla ice cream of course. 

Dad always stopped of at the bakery and got Mom a dessert for her birthday; I do not remember him ever getting the same dessert a second time. They were all good, but not as good as Mom's. Dad also fixed dinner for Mom's birthday, it helped that her birthday was in July as he always fixed something in the charcoal grill. No gas grill for Dad, this was his day to show Mom how much he loved and appreciated her. He had to do it right. As my sister and I got older we were allowed to help prepare the side dishes. 

At your birthday dinner you could bring a guest, I always brought Scott. He and I had been best friends since before kindergarten. For the last few years my sister brought her boyfriend "Du Jour". She was never promiscuous; she just went through boyfriends faster than anyone I ever met. Mom and Dad, on their birthdays, always set an extra place and left the seat vacant because, that was their way. They said it was to allow for growth.

Where was I?

Oh yes, The Party. My friends planned and threw it, everyone we and they knew was invited. There were friends, relations,s, out-laws and a few persons who just happened to be in town to visit the other people who were invited. They rented the pavilion in the park. Everyone was told to bring a favorite side dish to share and the guys supplied burgers, dogs and chicken for the grill. Everyone brought their favorite drinks. 

That was the day she walked into my life, sort of. Mary! She was the niece of neighbors on the next block from our place. I remember her from years back, I delivered the paper to her Aunt and Uncle, and she would sometimes be there with her family. We had never spoken, and I doubt if she ever noticed me as I walked my paper route. 

She sat with her Aunt and Uncle across the table from Mom and Dad. When I stopped to check on my folks, we were introduced. Later I ran into her at the dessert table. I told her "...She should try some of Mom's cake, it was the best! Her hands were full; I was raised to be a gentleman, so I helped her back to the table. Not much else happened because she was even shyer than I was. Her Aunt noticed the way we looked at each other and smiled.

The next time we met was around 6 months later. She was passing through town on the way home from college for Christmas break. We ran into each other at the gas station and said hello to each other and spoke about our families. The next day her Aunt sent her over to our house with a plate of cookies. When she got there Mom was the only one home, they visited for about an hour, until I got home from work. It was dark by that time and she needed to get back. Being the gentleman, I walked her home. As we got there I, on impulse, asked her if she would like to go to a movie or out to the drive-in for a soda the next evening. Unfortunately she had to leave early the next morning to finish the drive home. I started to get embarrassed before she responded that she would love to do so, on her drive back. We smiled at each other and she said she would have her Aunt let me know when she would be back. I thanked her Aunt for the cookies and walked home, just a little happier.

On the 2nd Sunday following Christmas I saw her Aunt after church and was told that Mary would be back in town the following Friday, Saturday and part of Sunday. I had to work late on Friday, so I called on Saturday morning and asked if she was available that evening. I now had my first date since my high school prom. Not that that was much of a date, I took my cousin. Mom's brother has 2 daughters, 1 of them was in my class. 

Let me tell you about the local theater; one of the deacons at our church owns it. It was his folks' before they passed it to him. If a movie has a"Hell, Darn or anything worse" it will not show in his place. As a result, he mostly shows Disney and that sort of movie. Considering our town, it is a good fit. He makes a good living and the place is always near full. He only opens for business Thursday through Saturday, except for the summer when they open for 6 days. The theater is always closed on Sunday. If you want anything else you need to drive 30 to 40 minutes in any direction to another town.

The theater was showing Fantasia that week, I love the dancing hippos. We walked to the theater, it was only 3 blocks. Afterward we stopped at the drive in and had some coffee and talked. Before we knew it, we had been there for 3 hours, they were closing. We talked on the way home. When I dropped her off I saw her Aunt, she smiled. We apologized to her for being late, but she said she knew where we were and what was happening. I told you it was a small town, didn't I?

I found out that Mary attended a college about 2 hours to the north, was majoring in Math and wanted to become an accountant. She was in her junior year and on the Dean's List. She grew up about 5 hours to the south and passed through town when she went home on breaks. Her folks did not want her to drive more than 5 hours so the stopover was well placed. 

The next morning in church her Aunt smiled at us, so did a lot of other people. I was happy, and I think Mary was too. That evening, after she left, I felt like something was missing for the first time in my life.

As spring approached I started to look for a place to call my own. Finally, after about 2 months, I found a place that I liked. It needed work, and had been on the market for too long, so they accepted a lot less than the listing price. Mom and Dad approved of my decision, and offered to help fix it up. 

5 weeks later I had my house and 10 acres of mostly wooded land. I managed to put down half of the cost and still not deplete my savings too badly. 

My new place was about 15 miles north of town, about halfway between home and work. There were 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, living room, and eat in kitchen. The covered front porch ran the entire length of the house. The previous owners used it as a vacation home. They did not plan to use it much in the winter, so they did not insulate or put on storm windows and doors. They did use the best materials they could get. 

The first job was to replace the roof. My family bought the materials, as a house warming gift, and Dad taught my friends and me how to do the job. After that, we replaced a few bad and missing boards, and painted the outside. With that done I could start on the inside.

I was 23 years old, had my first place and was eager to move in. I was allowed to take the bedroom set that I grew up with, and some friends and neighbors had tables, chairs and living room furniture they no longer needed. The house was sparsely furnished, but livable. I set myself up to live in the kitchen and a small bedroom. I started to fix up the living room and other bedrooms. The paneling they used was old, heavy and dark. It needed to be removed so I could insulate. My friend Scott is an electrician; he knows lots of construction guys. We rewired the place to meet codes, insulated and I paid a guy he knew to drywall the place. I gave a coat of paint to the bathroom and new walls and the front part looked great; I only needed to fix the kitchen and little bedroom.

Mary and I had written letters every few weeks, so she knew of the house and my progress. We had not seen each other since she returned to school. One letter told me she had an internship with an accounting firm nearby. She was going to stay with her family. 

On her first weekend back I called and set up a date for the following Saturday. When the day arrived it was cold and rainy, not a good day for the picnic we had planned. She thought otherwise. We set up and had the picnic in my living room, with the blanket in the middle of the floor. She got the grand tour, during a break in the rain I showed her a little of my forest. That evening when I took her home we held hands and I kissed her cheek when we said good night. Her Aunt saw and she smiled. 

Mary and I began to see each other every weekend and occasionally during the week. She went with me to Scott's wedding, I was best man. By the end of the summer I had a new best friend. I think Scott understood.

The weekend before she had to return to school she called and said she wanted to drive up to my place. When she arrived she told me to wait in the kitchen while she brought something into the house. When she called me out she had a beautiful Dalmatian puppy in the living room with a red bow around its neck. She did not want me to be lonely while she was away. I named the little girl Stripe, short for Stars and Stripes. I now had 2 girls in my life. I told you I have a sense of humor.

When Mary returned to school I felt that "missing" feeling again. Instead of letters we called each other every weekend, and once a month I drove up to see her for a day or so. Stripe was a handful at first, but she helped me feel better when I missed Mary. She, Stripe that is, was crate trained and house broken within a month. Mom and Dad took care of her when I went to visit Mary or had a training weekend. Yes, I was still with The Guard. 

I knew by Thanksgiving that I was madly in love. When she asked me to visit her parents over Christmas I jumped at the chance. Work was slow, so I took 2 weeks of vacation. We had Christmas Eve with my family and her Aunt and Uncle. We took off early the next morning to see her family. That evening, her father and I went for a short walk while Mary and her mother did the dishes. He asked me what my intentions were, I told him I was in love with Mary and showed him the ring I had bought. I asked if I could marry her, he said yes. The next morning Mary could not figure out why her mother had taken such a liking to me. She found out on New Years Eve. Mary and I called Mom and Dad and broke the news to them. Everyone was happy.

Mary was scheduled to graduate in the spring; we set the wedding for June 31st. We decided to get married in my hometown. Her folks came up for a week and made all the arrangements. Life was good.

I became a partner in the photography firm, had a place of my own and a good dog and was getting married in about 2 months. Mary was offered a job with the firm where she did her internship; she accepted and was scheduled to start the 1st week in June, with the understanding she would have time off for our honeymoon. 

Then I got THE NEWS, my Guard unit was going to be called up on July 1st. We would spend 2 months training and 9 months in Iraq. I was getting married one day and shipping out the next. Mary's folks tried to reschedule the wedding earlier but it just did not work out. Life became crazy.

I was still sleeping in the smaller bedroom; I had not furnished the master bedroom yet. When we decided to marry, I wanted Mary to help choose the furniture for that room. We spent 2 days looking for what we wanted. We finally found what we wanted at an Amish furniture store. Their furniture was made to order, you chose every detail. They assured us it would be delivered by the 25th of July. We chose the paint, wallpaper, bedding and curtains together and I got to work making sure it was all done. The furniture was delivered and all was ready. 

The weather on our wedding day was cool, sunny and bright. The wedding was over way too fast. My partner was the photographer, Scott was my best man, and Mary's roommate in college was her maid of honor. Stripe, to her dismay, was the ring bearer. She had a pillow strapped to her back, with the rings tied on. She did her job well and went to sit with Mom and Dad. After the wedding Mary's Aunt and everyone else smiled.

The reception was a blur; I do remember we had fun. We went home to sleep in our bedroom for the first time. We barely had time to cuddle when exhaustion over took us and we fell asleep. 

Damn, the alarm was going off. We had time for a quick breakfast and I had to report for duty. 

Mary and our families were all there to see us off, as we loaded onto the busses to head for 2 months of training and 9 months in Hell.



Mike and Mary Too



The flash was blinding, the temperature of Hell must have doubled. I knew that I could keep driving for at least a minute before I would have no idea what to do. So we kept going. 

The next thing I remembered was waking and pain like I had never felt in my life. There were machines around me busy making noises. I was restrained, and my head was wrapped in bandages so I could not see and I could not get whatever was in my throat out. People started yelling and all hell broke loose, again. 

I must have passed out again. When I awoke the next time there was nothing in my throat. I tried to speak. Not much came out, it sounded like a groan. I heard someone crying off to my left. I moved my hand and someone held it tightly. I heard the voice of an angel, my angel, my Mary. She was saying how happy she was that I had made it.

Made What? How did Mary get into Hell? Why was I like this? What had happened?

Over the next 2 weeks Mary sat with me, fed me, talked to me, held my hand and would not leave my side. The doctors made her leave when I was examined and new bandages were applied. The restraints were finally removed and the bandages that wrapped my head got lighter and lighter. Then 1 day they left my eyes uncovered. The lights in the room were turned way down and I was told that I could open my eyes when I wanted.

I waited for Mary to return. She asked what was happening, why the lights were so low. At that point I struggled to open my eyes. Yep, she was my angel; she was the best thing I had ever seen. She did not know that I could see her until I complimented her on the beautiful dress she wore. She burst out in tears, we both cried for what seemed like hours. 

The next morning I had more visitors. I recognized the CO from my Guard unit; the others were new to me. I saw more generals that morning than I knew existed. I tried to salute, my CO said don't bother. Every one of the generals returned my salute at the same time, I was impressed. They told me that my actions allowed all of the vehicles behind mine to continue through a well planned, well manned ambush. And, that due to my actions no one had been killed. Almost the entire opposing force had been wiped out. The body count was over 100. I heard later that 2 of our guys were slightly wounded in the ensuing fight. 

I heard the word hero. Hell, I don't feel like a hero. I hurt and want my Mary, I told them so. They allowed her to come forward and hold my hand. I got some medals and with the ceremony over we held hands and I took a nap. Life was getting better.

3 days later Mary had to go home, she had been away for over a month and there were things that had to be done there. 

2 days after that I found out I would be sent back to the States. There were 5 of us going home on that flight. Each of us had about 15 people there to watch over us. We landed at Andrews, outside Washington, and were transported to Walter Reed. Then the surgeries started.

Mary was able to visit every 3rd or 4th weekend, she had responsibilities at home. I told her that I understood and was glad for the time we had. Mom and Dad made it a few times too. Life was better, but each of the 5 rounds of surgery brought new pain.

The surgeons who worked on me were civilians; I heard they were the best in the world. They quietly denied that. I also heard they were doing my work for free, I did not ask about that. Before they started they told me that my face had been worked over pretty good. The flash of fire and surgeries to remove dead or dying skin left my face in bad shape. They asked me how I would like to look after the surgeries. I told them that I did not want to look like Tom Cruise or Jack Nicholson. Then, jokingly I said maybe Rodney Dangerfield. Remember my sense of humor?

One of the gifts Mary found for me had saved me from a much worse fate. It seems that she is a distant cousin to a NASCAR driver. She had her folks contact his family; they had him send me a suit like the drivers wear in the races. It was mostly red with a red scarf and the same type of goggles they wear. When our group went out for a "Joy Ride" I would put it on. Around the camp I became known as The Red Baron. I was not allowed to wear it unless I was driving. 

The part they needed to work on was from my mouth to my eyes and above my eyes to my forehead. Compared to some of my new friends on the ward I was gorgeous, and they let me know. When they found out that I was the Red Baron we became close friends. It seems that I was well known throughout Iraq. For an opponent to have knocked me out of the fight would have been a real big deal. 

Since the time I left for Hell, Mary had not seen my face. I had not looked at it since the flash, except a short glance when I first arrived at Reed. The only picture she had of me were from the wedding. She sent one to the surgeons, they gave it to me when they were done with it. The only contact Mary and I could have was below my shoulders. 

So here I was married for over 2 years, still a virgin, half of my face was melted and I was over 400 miles from home. My new friends and I had a deal, the first one of us to complain got their ass kicked, but good. Life was still getting better. 

I had my last surgery around the 1st of April; this was all they would be able to do. When word got out in my hometown that I could be home for the 4th of July the town decided to throw another party the likes of which had never been seen. Mary visited me on the 6th of April and spilled the beans. I told her I did not want to be put on display; I wanted to be home with her. Well, like it or not, I was to be the guest of honor in the 4th of July Parade. I was going to attend and be happy. I saluted, said "Yes Sir" but did not like it. Life was still better than it had been. 

When they removed my bandages I saw a handsome face, that did in my mind remind me of Rodney just a little. To say I was astounded would be an understatement. They tried to return my own look but it was not to be. I guess I just won't get any respect.

For the last week before I was released they allowed me to roam around the hospital grounds and then to take a ride into town in a cab. The first thing I did was buy some fast food, and then I bought a nice used car and camera. 

June 20th the day I was released was the 2nd happiest of my life. I said farewell to my new friends and left them my parents address. I also took pictures of all of them. I got some maps and started to drive home. I had not told anyone which day I would be released. Mary and I had been communicating with cell phones for the last 3 months. I wanted to take my time, see the world and check some things out. 

Mary had been talking about a girl friend she called Billie. She had mentioned that she did not like being alone for so long at the house, because it was quite remote. So Billie came over often and sometimes stayed overnight. A few weeks before I was released from Walter Reed I got a letter from Scott. He said the last few times he and his wife went to see Mary she had not been alone. There was a very large man staying at the house. After the letter I called my partner and asked if he could have it checked out.

I was not happy with the news I got back. Billie was William Rodney Howard; he was a vicious, 350 pound linebacker on the local college football team. It was said that he could stop 3 large men at a time and finish the game as if he had watched from the sidelines. They had met when Mary tutored him in math, he was about to get kicked off the team and loose his scholarship. I knew Mary had been a volunteer but she had not told me much about it. 

The next day I drove down the road near my house and saw them on the porch. Stripe saw the car and came out to investigate. She recognized me, and almost gave me away. I had to drive fast to get out of there. I looked in my rearview mirror and saw her confusion, it hurt. But not as much as my concern about what my wife was doing. I left the area and drove north to see my partner at the studio. He had only been in contact with her a few times; to give her the wedding pictures and answer questions I had asked. He said the PI he hired did not find any signs of inappropriate activities, I hoped he was right. 

When Mary called me that evening I told her that I had to ride in with my unit for the parade. Since she was leery of large groups, I made arrangements to meet her at the house after the parade. Mary indicated that she would be glad when we had a chance to talk and relax.

As we talked I was driving west to spend some time with my CO and his family and think. He noticed my lack of concentration and asked me what was on my mind. I unloaded the entire mess right in his lap. He sympathized with me and told me not to worry about Billie. He only said "...He knew about the guy and I had nothing to worry about". 

July 4th was hot, sunny and muggy, compared to Hell it was a spring day. We met the unit at our armory. Someone had saved my red suit and framed it. They hung it among our other awards. I was given a new dress uniform with my new medals already on it. When I commented that the rank was 2 steps higher than it should be everyone laughed. My CO told me it was correct. My car was placed on a trailer and we all rode the busses to the parade as was our custom.

I rode on a float in the parade; someone provided a beach umbrella to protect my new face. I was embarrassed by all the attention showered on me. When we got to the reviewing stand there were speeches, a review of the events on the day of the flash and my medal citations were read. When my time came to speak I told everyone that I was no hero, that I did what I was trained to do. I showed them the pictures of my friends in Washington and told how they and the people killed were the heroes. Then I made the longest drive in my life.

Mary was waiting on the porch when I got there, as I walked up I could see her crying. When I took her hand to go inside she started to sob loudly. I sat there not knowing what to do or say, it was 5 minutes later that Billie walked out of the kitchen. 

As soon as I heard his voice I knew what my CO said was true. He explained that after the news spread about me that some guys decided to see what they could get into around my place. At first the sheriff chased them off, but they kept coming back at all times of the day. Mary was so upset that she could not tutor him the next time they met. He offered to watch over her and told her about himself. He was involved in a serious relationship, could never cheat and that I had saved his father's life when I continued to drive that day. Besides she had helped him stay in school, he would always be in her debt. Talk about sweet and kind...

Wait a minute! His father; Staff Sergeant Howard was beside me that day. His family and boyfriend and Stripe came out of my kitchen after that. Yep, I said boyfriend, he had no interest in women what-so-ever. 

After they left Mary and I finally talked. She had seen the car as I drove by the other day, and recognized me as the driver when she watched the parade on TV. She was worried about what I thought was going on, glad to have me home and surprised by my new look all at the same time. She did not tell me about the guys for fear that I would slip in my recovery. Later that evening after we were talked out, we went upstairs and opened the bedroom door. It looked exactly the way it was the morning I left for Hell. She refused to sleep in that room without me. 20 minutes later we had solved the problem of our virginities. 

9 months later little Billie was born, everybody including Stripe loves her. The month after that her namesake graduated Cum Laude. Life could not be better and I am sure her Aunt is smiling.



Mike and Mary Tree



My life is still good. After my internship in Hell, I decided to leave the Guard when my time was up. Even though I am out, the guys and I are still friends. Mary understands, and would not have it any other way. In fact I have become the official, unofficial, photographer for the unit. I mostly do a few training items for them and a yearly shot of the entire group in formation. They pay me with their friendship, and occasionally some of them visit to help with my forest, on their own time of course. They also get some free firewood.

After a while my partner, in the photography business, decided it was time to cut back and enjoy life more. Business has been steadily picking up and a while ago we had to bring in another trainee. She is learning the same way we did, master 1 thing and then move on. Martha has been working on her own for 3 months now and is doing well. Most of our work is digital now, but we still work with film when a job requires it. Now there are 2 ½ of us and it sure is nice to have a female perspective on some things. 

I was on the way back from assignment when I pulled into a little diner along the border between Pennsylvania and Maryland. I had been there years ago, before Hell. The food was good then and still was. There were a few others there, but one couple stood out. You could tell how in love they were from the way they talked and looked at each other. She was a redhead, bright green eyes, and a body to kill for. Her face was a little on the boyish side, this made her all the more intriguing. He was tall, dark and handsome, in fact he was black. Not that it bothered me, I thought it made them that much more interesting. I heard enough of their conversation to know they were quite articulate. 

We all left at the same time, as we got outside I commented on how they looked good together, she blushed. I could not tell if he did. We talked for a bit about how so many people had a negative view of their relationship. I asked them "Do you love each other?" of course I already saw the answer in their eyes. They responded "Yes" at exactly the same time, in 2 part harmony. I told them that if they were truthful, then what everyone else thought was not relevant. 

As we parted he noticed me heading toward my company car, logo on the side. We talked for a few more moments about my work, he commented that he might be able to send some work my way so I gave him a card. 

A few months later I was on a call to visit a potential client. In the lobby a photo on the wall looked familiar, like an older version of someone I had met before. The meeting was going well; they had looked over the material on our company web site and were excited to talk to me. The firm they were doing business with was slower than they liked and the work was becoming sloppy, no longer to their liking either. I asked how they heard about us, the president pulled out a slightly worn business card and told me his son –in-law gave it to him. His daughter and son were very impressed with me personally and if the web site was any indication, the company was going to love the quality of our work. I am hardly ever at a loss for words, but I was so lost. He saw the look on my face and called for someone to come into his office. 

I heard footsteps behind me; he said "I would like you to meet my daughter, Katherine." I turned to see the most stunning green eyes. Now I knew why he looked so familiar. The faces could have been twins, except for the age difference and that red moustache. I also noticed a small baby bump. Mom always told me that a gentleman never mentions pregnancy first in a conversation; I smiled and shook her hand. "The diner" I said. She smiled.

I left with a 3 month contract, so we could see how the companies worked together, with an extension to 3 years if everything worked out as expected. As we shook hands Katherine handed me a slip of paper with a phone number on it. "Please call this number." was all she said. 

I was not sure what to think, but life was good and getting better. I don't think my partner would agree much. He may need to work full time until we can train someone.

An hour later, when I got home, I called the number. It went straight to voice mail; I left my name and number. 

3 days later I answered the phone, "Hi, this is Mark." was the first thing I heard. My first thought was I am so happy for you, but I asked," How can I help you?" He explained that he was Katherine's husband, and then he sort of stammered around a bit before he asked if I might be interested in doing some intimate photos of his wife and him. I explained that I was an industrial photographer, rarely did people, and had never done anything in that line. I knew someone who would, and could give him their number. He explained that he and Katherine were comfortable with me and would appreciate it if I would consider. He also expressed concern that someone might get their hands on the photos, if too many people were involved, and he could not allow Katherine to be embarrassed that way. I told him I would think it over for a few days and call him either way. 

The next evening Mary and I talked about it. I had taken some modest pictures of her when she was pregnant with Billie. Mary was proud of them and thought I should do the job. She pointed out how women are even more beautiful when they are pregnant and should have a reminder of those times. Who can argue with logic like that?

The next day I called Mark back, we talked about it. I told him that the job would be private; the company could not to be involved. If he was looking for explicit photos that I would not do it, the only way I would do the shoot was to do it digital, hand him the memory card and he was responsible for the printing. I only wanted a modest picture or two to share with Mary. I also would let him set the price with the understanding of what we charge at work; after all I am a pro. Since I had never done this type of work before, I would not accept payment unless they were completely satisfied. He was happy with the offer and replied that they would talk it over. 

The next day Katherine called and accepted the terms. Neither of them had ever posed like this before and both had concerns. I offered to send Mary's favorite picture for their approval, explained that it was quite modest and that I had her permission to do so. I told her we would need to set a time and place and have a plan before anything else would happen. 

On the appointed day I showed up at their home, WOW it was beautiful but much too large for my tastes. We talked and agreed that we would start outside in the garden, fully clothed. They had some clothes they wanted to try, I thought Katherine in black and Mark in white would be interesting. The first set we did they were dressed "to the nines" in evening gown and tux, then she wore a peasant dress and he wore casual clothes, both were barefoot. Then we tried the black and white, again barefoot. They looked good together, separate and in everything they tried on. After about 3 hours we headed indoors to take some photos in their bedroom. I told them we would go as far as they felt comfortable. By now we had built up a trust and were working well together. They were still dressed in black and white, so we continued with that theme. 

About an hour later they were nude except for a few strategically placed body parts and draped bed clothes, she was even more stunning. As we finished and they got up to dress I saw that Mark had an erection. I was slightly impressed when I had seen him flaccid, but erect he did not get any bigger, just harder. In fact he and I are about the same size, so much for rumors. 

They dressed as I gathered up my equipment and put it away. We returned to their living room and I gave them the memory cards I had shot. Mark showed me the new professional grade printer they had just purchased. It was a newer version of one we used in the shop. I liked the extra features and decided to get one. 

3 weeks later I received a large envelope in the mail; inside were 4 photos and a check for $5000, more than I had expected. 3 of the photos were taken outside, 1 in each clothing change. The final one was of Katherine reclining on the bed reclining against Mark who was behind her, one knee strategically placed and Marks arm across her breasts, and her belly was prominently on display. The joy on their faces was incredible. There was also a letter that expressed their overall satisfaction with the results. They made a CD of the photos and had printed almost every one of them, I am glad I did not have to pay for all the ink. There were only 5 or 6 that they did not use, out of over 900. Nobody does perfect work, all I promised them was they would like some.

They said the final photo they sent me was blown up to 11 x 14, they framed it and hung it on their bedroom wall where they could see it from the bed, but not visible from the door.

I took the photos to show Mary, she knew Katherine from college. They had taken some classes together. Mary called Katherine the next day; we will be getting together for supper next month. It seems that Katherine also recognized Mary but did not want to say anything that might make the shoot awkward. 

One day there was a visitor at work, he was a Marine Corps combat photographer. He told our secretary that he was looking for The Red Baron. She thought he was nuts, and told him you could get that brand of pizza at the local market. Not many people know about that part of my life, except for what is known about my heroics. My partner heard him and asked him to wait a minute. He then called me and let me know about the visitor. 

I met Steve about an hour later; it turns out he was along for the ride, that day in Hell. He had some photos of the action that day. I looked at one of the explosion's flash and a couple of others showing combat that day, they were all top quality. He had a flash drive with all the photos he took that day that he wanted to give me. I had seen enough, and politely declined. When I asked him if he was still in the Marines, he told me had seen enough too and had recently gotten out. I asked what he was doing and where he was going, he was not sure. I told him about our company and asked if he might be interested in working with us. After talking for a while he thought that might be a plan, I called my partner and set up the meeting. 

Great minds think alike, so I've been told. While at the shop he had shown some of the photos, my partner was impressed with the quality too. To frame and shoot as many photos as he did and get good work almost every time is nearly impossible. He did the impossible. 

We agreed to set him up on a 6 month trial basis; if it did not work out, or he wanted out, we could still be friends. He gave the flash drive to my partner in case I might change my mind. I don't think I will, but you never know. 

It was 2 days later that he brought in the rest of his portfolio, I think he was better than me. There were action photos from sporting events, portraits, landscapes and some industrial photos sort of like we do. The photo I remember most was taken at a racetrack. It was a stock car, head on, taken with a wide angle lens from ground level looking up; the tires were not touching the ground. He said that "...he got out of that business after seeing the photo, because the car was doing 150 MPH and turned sharply about 40 feet before it got to him. His Momma raised big kids, not dumb ones."

Starting the next week, we had 4 working photographers for the next 3 months. We did not need to bring him onboard slowly as before, but he needed to understand the requirements within our contracts, and learn how we wanted the work done. Upon further reflection he did extremely well.

That afternoon when I got home I could tell that Mary had a lot on her mind. I let her think about whatever it was that was bothering her. Finally told me she was not satisfied with where her life was. "NO!" she said "That is not how I want to say that." She felt that she was lost and was being watched all the time. She loved me so very much and that would never change, but she did not know who she was or what she wanted. She felt that she needed some time alone to think about those things. She never had a period of time alone just for herself.

To that point she felt that her life had been a series of events just cascading out, without any particular reason. First she was her parents' child, then into college, her internship and job, engaged and married, my ride through Hell and subsequent rehabilitation, and then she was a mommy to the most wonderful little girl in the world. She was happy with all that had happened, but she needed to stop and take look at her life, decide what she wanted, then she could continue. She thought she knew the answers, the future frightened her.

We talked for hours; she did not have anyone else and was madly and passionately in love with me. I was the perfect husband and had not done anything to cause this. There was a small, furnished apartment a short distance from her job that she had looked at and she felt she would be OK there. She wanted me to keep Billie and stay at home, "...to limit the outside influences". If there was an emergency I could call her at work anytime. Throughout all she said, I was mostly quiet. 

She had the time to think about how she wanted to present her case, I asked for a little time to think about all she had said.

Not much was said at supper, and after I put Billie to bed I took the time to speak about my concerns. I loved her more than life and told her so, but if she was to have the time she asked for, we must both be true to each other. There could be no dating anyone else and definitely no sex of any kind. I thought that if we were to have sex in that period it might confuse or influence her, the decision had to be entirely hers. We were well known throughout the area and if either of us were unfaithful it would most certainly get back to other. I thought it would be a good idea if we were to get together for a date every now and then to discuss anything that might be important. Before we separated she would need to give me some sort of idea of how long she might need and I asked her to think it over for a few more days before she decided to act. 

Now my head hurt, almost as much as my heart. For the first time in our marriage I turned and went to bed without kissing her good night. I did not sleep much that night and I don't think she did either. She did not come to bed and when I looked in on her at 3 she was still sitting in the same spot with tears running down her face. 

As I lay in bed I thought about our life, wondered how this came to be. Maybe I was not attentive enough, did I crowd her or spend too much time watching over her, and was she honest about not having anyone else? Now I was starting to doubt myself and everything I knew and believed. Worst of all; I did not know if I could trust her. Had she killed that? 

5 days later after much debate, crying and frustration we were no closer to resolving the matter. We were both mentally worn down, physically exhausted and extremely unhappy. In short, our lives were turning bad very quickly.

Billie was starting to notice things were not right and was now asking questions. Why were Mommy and Daddy not happy? Did we love her? How can she make us feel better? Did she do anything wrong? Was someone sick? No little girl needs to worry about thing like this, and if Mary left it could be worse. 

Finally we sat down with Billie and told her that we both loved her and each other very much, but that Mommy was confused and we would be spending time apart. Mommy might pick her up from nursery and keep her overnight sometimes, but she would be here with me most of the time. We assured her that the problem was not because of something she had done. Billie tried to find a way to keep her Mommy home, and then ran out of the room crying. Mary looked like she wanted to die. Billie cried herself to sleep while I held her hand and tried to talk to her. Later, in the little bedroom, I cried myself to sleep too. That night she packed some things, tried to sleep on the sofa, and left for work and a different life in the morning.

I took the day off. Billie was sure that "...Mommy did not love her enough." There was nothing I could do or say to convince her otherwise. That night Mary called to be sure we would be OK. She wanted to speak to Billie, who responded that "...her Mommy was gone and she did not want to talk to anyone on the phone." Mary heard her and sobbed for a while before hanging up. I never had a chance to say that Billie was angry and felt abandoned. I tried to call her back, but her phone was off. I left her a message telling her that we both loved her and would miss her; I hoped she could decide sooner rather than later and would be happy in the long run. I continued to sleep in the little bedroom after that night. 

I was worse than useless the next week. Finally, everyone at work told me to go home until I was better. 

The next day we packed food and clothes in the car and drove down to see Mom and Dad. I wanted to borrow their camper to get away, relax and try to have some fun. While we were there Mom and Billie had a long talk, over cookies and ice cream, about how much Mary loved all of us and how hard it was on Mary when I was away. We had not told Billie yet about my being in Hell, as we thought she was too young to understand. Then Mom pulled out some pictures of how I looked before it all happened. Billie eyes were wide; she was surprised to hear that her daddy was a Hero and even more surprised that I looked so different. Mom showed her a photo of me at the age she is now and Billie thought I looked just like her, without hair. Then Mom showed her a picture of me in all of the bandages and one the doctors had sent before the surgeries. I don't know how but her eyes got even wider. She ran to me and hugged me and said she "...did love her Mommy, and me and how she was glad that I was pretty again and that I was a hero and please don't die." 

I hugged her and told her "I knew she loved her Mommy, and there was no way I was going to die for, hopefully, a long time". I guess every Father is a hero in their child's eyes. 

As we drove to the lake we talked. At the lake we talked even more. We swam, fished and hiked all over the place for 5 days. The second day there; Billie declared that she needed to speak to her Mommy. We talked about what she wanted to say when we called, and that Mommy was at work so her phone would be off. There was no phone signal at the lake so we hiked to the top of a small mountain nearby. When we were there Billie got to tell her all the things she had to say. She told her where we were, that she was the best Mommy in the world, she missed her and she was happy that I was a hero and would not die for a long time. Before she hung up I told Mary that there was no reception at the lake and that I missed her too. 

That night was the best time ever. We caught some trout for dinner, sang songs and told stories until we too tired to go on. We slept well that night.

In the morning Billie talked me into climbing that mountain again. We ate breakfast, packed lunch and headed out. We walked a bit slower that day, took many breaks and talked about the trees and flowers, birds and animals and how pretty the sights would be at the top. Before we got to the top I told her that "Mommy might not have turned on her phone last night". 

I never go anywhere without cameras in the car, I grabbed one today. As we walked and talked we decided what to take picture of and I showed Billie how to aim the camera and take pictures, I even let her take some. She did alright. At the top we had lunch, took more pictures and then we got the phone out and I let her take a picture with it to "send to Mommy". 




Mike and Mary Tree



I had almost shut it off when the phone beeped to announce a message. It was from Mary. I took the call and listened to what she had to say. She thanked us for the call and was glad that we loved her and even more glad that I would not die any time soon. That she had been to a doctor who did some tests and he was sure it was depression. When the test results were back she would let us know. I let Billie listen to the message too. As I was shutting the phone down it beeped again, I had to turn it back on to find a text message saying "thnks 4 the b t ful pic lv M". I told Billie what she said, Billie was happy and so was I. We started back down the mountain. 

That evening we had canned beef stew, you can't go camping without it. I let Billie open the can and heat it on our little stove, with a lot of supervision. That meal was the best I ever ate. After the meal we plugged my laptop into the car and looked at our pictures. By the time we finished we were tired, we cleaned up and went to sleep.

The next day was rainy and cool; we read stories, played games and decided to go into town for lunch. While there I saw some stuffed bears, I bought a smaller one, with a red ribbon, for Billie and a larger one, with a blue ribbon, for Mary. Billie slept with both that night. 

Our vacation was over the next day, we were both sad to leave. I promised we would come back with Mommy one day and all walk to the top of our mountain. We talked more as we drove home, Billie wondered how long until "Mommy came home". Sadly I told her I did not know. 

While we were gone Mary had come by the house, she got a few more clothes and left her test results and a framed copy of the picture we had sent her. Billie wanted the picture hung over her dresser so she could see it from her bed. It was done. 

The test results and written explanation by the doctor showed that Mary was having a slight chemical imbalance, but with the correct medicine she would recover and then be able to slowly come back off of it. The doctor seemed to think it was related to some sort of worries she had. He did not go into detail about that. Mary also left a note for me and one for Billie. 

Billie's note told her how she was the most wonderful daughter in the world and that she missed her terribly. Mommy wanted to come and pick her up after nursery school one day and let her stay with her overnight. 

The note to me said how much better she was feeling, that she missed me most of all and wanted to get together at a restaurant nearby for lunch on Tuesday next week. She gave the name and time and that she would be there, I was to call only if I could not make it. We could discuss when Billie would stay over at that time. I would crawl back through Hell to be sure that I would not miss that meeting. 

Monday I took Billie to nursery school and went to work. Everybody had things well in control and they were glad that I was back. I spent the time printing out Billie's pictures from the trip and making a CD of all of the pictures for Mary. I put Billie's at the end with a special slide to announce who's those pictures were. Tuesday Morning I dropped Billie off again and went to work. Unknown to Billie I also Packed a bag for her, making sure her bear was inside. I wrapped Mary's bear as a gift and put the CD copies of Billie's prints in an envelope.

I was worthless at work, they told me to get out so I would be sure to be on time for my date. I drove slowly that morning wondering, - no - really I was worrying, about how our date would go and what we would say. 

I arrived at our destination about a half hour early, and waited in the lot for Mary. She arrived 15 minuets early, but did not see the car so she went in to get settled for our date. She was so pretty. As I approached her table she stood up and gave me the best hug ever, then we sat down. I was more nervous than hungry; she looked like she had a lot to say and was eager to say it. We ordered and she began. 

She was sorry for the last week we were together, she understands now how difficult she was to live with. Mary almost cried when she told me how much she missed the 2 of us, she had to stop multiple times so she could avoid crying. She was so grateful for the 2 messages on her phone; she saved them and listens to them each night before she goes to sleep. She loved the picture and printed a copy to hang on the wall over her desk. She cried when I told her that Billie took that picture especially for her. The doctor was certain that he knew what her problem was and she felt better than she had in a long time. She was afraid to return yet; because she wanted to be sure of everything. But, -- there had to be a but -- didn't there? But, when she was at the house she had the same feeling of being watched, it bothered her. She reminded me about the time I was in recovery when Billie Howard stayed with her, how could I have forgotten. I told her we could move if it made her feel better, she did not like that idea, she didn't say no. 

We talked for over 2 hours about everything and then some. As we were getting ready to leave I told her I had some things in the car for her. She looked like she was not sure if she should be happy or not, I assured her they were good things. 

On the way to the car I asked when she would like to have Billie visit her, she said    "The sooner the better". The first bag I handed her was Billie's clothes, when she looked inside she got a funny look on her face. I said "How about tonight and tomorrow?" She hugged me until I started to turn blue; I presume that is a yes. 

Next she got the envelope, I was glad she knew it was all good stuff. You know what else comes in that size envelope. She saw the photos, as she looked at them she said they were lovely, and then I told her who took them. As she cried again I told her what was on the CD, she did not stop for a while. She asked about the photo with Billie sleeping with 2 bears. I told her about the rainy day and our trip into town and Billie insisting on sleeping with both bears that night, as I handed her the gift.

She squealed when she saw what it was. I got another of the world's best hugs. Before she let me go I gave her a kiss on the cheek. Next I got out my cell phone and called the nursery to tell them that Billie's Mommy would pick her up the next 2 evenings and drop her off again in the mornings. I asked them not to tell her that I was not going to pick her up. As she headed for her car, Mary turned and smiled and told me I was mean and I told her to call me when she wanted to get together. That night I still slept in the little bedroom.

When I arrived for work on Wednesday Steve told me he was glad that everything went well yesterday. I guess that I must have really looked happy. I did a lot of work to make up for the previous day, in fact I worked so hard that there was nothing left to do so I went home early. 

My property is surrounded on 3 sides by public roads; the only other border is a large creek. As I was driving on the road behind the house I saw a car parked off of the road, it looked like someone was trying to hide it. I turned around, went back and got the license number as I drove by. I called the sheriff and asked him to check it out; he was nearby and told me he would look into it in about 5 minutes. I turned around again and headed home. 

I pulled into my drive and parked in the open shed like I always do. Something was not right; Stripe was out of her pen and running back and forth wildly around the front porch. I called the sheriff who was just about to look at the car I had found. He turned and headed toward the house. I approached the porch from a side where I knew I could not be seen. Stripe was having fun with a guy who was cowering under my steps. Every time he tried to move Stripe would lunge at him, as long as he was not stupid he would be fine. The sheriff was there immediately. I was not worried about him because he and Stripe were real good friends, since he was called often while I was in Hell. When he was ready I called Stripe to her pen, scratched her ears and praised her for a good job done. The guy crawled out from under the porch, holding his hands high. Sheriff cuffed him and sat him on the steps. 

When both the sheriff and I got a good look we started to laugh. That man was filthy, covered in dirt and spider webs, there were scratches all over and a bite had removed one pants leg below the knee. That was about the time I remembered that I had not put Stripe in her pen this morning, she had been in the house. I started to circle the house and found the back door open and a window in it was broken, Stripe had done well. By the time I got back around front the sheriff had the guys name, it was his car parked behind my place. I asked him if he tried to go into my house, he did not need to answer I could read his face. A tow truck was called to collect his car, state police sent a crime lab and a deputy took him in for booking and interrogation. I would find out later that he attended classes with Mary. He had a real crush on her, but she was in love with me by that time and did not have time for anyone else. He had been coming around since he saw her picture in the paper when I was injured. He wanted her back, but then he never had her in the first place. I never wanted to be a hero. 

Mary allowed Billie to call me and say good night that evening Billie was ecstatic about being with her Mommy; she must have thanked me a hundred times. The night before they had fallen asleep, early, in each others arms. I asked Mary to call back after she put Billie to bed; I had some news to share. 

Mary called back about an hour later; it took her that long to get Billie to go to sleep. I told her about the guy and all the excitement. She did not even recognize the name. 

We went a dinner date 2 weeks later, Mary said she wanted to come home for a weekend to see how she felt. That weekend we both tucked Billie into bed, Mary no longer felt like she was being watched, she insisted that we sleep together in our bedroom. 3 days later we were a family again. 

The next time I saw Steve at work he told me that Mary had been completely faithful while we were separated. A buddy of his from The Corps worked in the same office as Mary and he had a friend who lived across from her apartment. The only places Mary went were to work, the doctor and to see me. I still don't know if I want to kick Steve or hug him. 

When Mary's stalker went to court she got to see who he was, he looked vaguely familiar but that was all. Mary told the court that we would agree to a misdemeanor charge of trespassing if he would move far away and never come back. He apologized for his actions and said he had a job offer from a company on the west coast, but he needed a clean criminal record to take it. He was fined $600, and the cost of the court and paid to repair the glass in our door, and had a restraining order placed against him so that he could not come within 1000 feet of our family or contact us without permission. Each year he, and his new wife, send us a Christmas card via the court. 

Billie brought me in for Show And Tell her first month in Kindergarten; she told how I was a hero. I still don't feel like a hero, all I wanted to do was live.

We are more in love than ever before, we do not take it for granted either. Once a month we have a date night, sometimes Billie gets to come along, but not too often. Next year we will go to the lake and all climb that mountain.

9 months after Mary came back Billie became a big sister. The boy will be blind by the time he is 3. Billie takes his picture all the time with the camera she got for Christmas.

We named our boy after my Dad and Mary's father. His name is James James..., you guess which one is honored first. 






I wrote this story because I feel that if I am going to comment on your stories, then you should be able to comment on mine.

Remember these stories are written from a male perspective, I have never been a female so I can only write from what I know.

This was my first attempt at writing a story. It evolved into much more than I anticipated at the beginning. I realize that I missed a few items that should have been caught, like all the dates in the1st chapter. 

At the end of the 2nd chapter I missed making the reference more precise about the aunt being Mary's. That reference is a carry over from all of the other statements about Mary's aunt; smiling, being happy and so forth in the first story. I have learned a lot from this set of efforts. 

About the titles; I grew up in a house where both parents were capable of intellectually abusing the English language. Well, that and my warped sense of humor caused me too do it. 

I submitted all of the stories without additional editing so I could get a feeling for how "I" actually did. Over all I am pleased with the responses and acceptance of my thoughts. There have been differences of opinion between some readers, but, whatever you want to make of this is fine by me. I might get more editing if I submit any more. I hope you can see improvement from one to another of the chapters.

I do not care for stories where spouses cheat, or show disrespect. My thought is that if you make a promise you should follow up and do what you said you would do, or get out of the relationship.

Will Mike and Mary have future? If I am inspired to do more they might. I promise the readers here will be the first to know.

I am rolling some ideas around in my brain for a story I might put into non-consent. Those ideas will be in keeping with my preferences and beliefs in right and wrong. 

Feel free to comment on the stories or the comments; just don't go to any great lengths to prove that you ARE a fool.

Best wishes to all of the other authors that try to write a good story, if I don't like your story I usually won't comment. If I see something that may help you I will try to point it out gently. As I find more and more authors that inspire me I will list them in my profile.

Thanks

PTBzzzz