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For Love of a Brother Ch. 01

By: Tony155



Prologue: Spring 1962

The room was quiet except for the occasional whimpering of the baby in his mother's arms. She continued to rock gently, all the while kissing him and whispering sweet things in his ear. Although the nurses tried every night to rock him to sleep, it was she who had the touch he wanted and needed.

Exhausted and fighting sleep herself, she knew her husband would be picking her up soon to take her home for a few pitiful hours of rest. He cared for their 15-month-old daughter while she kept the vigil at the hospital.

He stirred a little, waking her with a start from her doze before he settled into a sound sleep. Silently, she admonished herself for falling asleep as she looked down at her son, so small and frail in her arms. How she loved him so, even more than life itself. He would have surgery soon to remove the kidney that was poisoning him and she was dreading it. Another operation for her Andy and he wasn't even six months old yet! Perhaps, this would be the last one. She could only hope.

Carefully, she stood up on shaky legs and prayed he wouldn't wake. She tenderly placed him on the bed, trying to avoid moving the tubes sticking out from his sides that drained the waste his good kidney had missed. Good kidney? The doctors told them it was damaged, too, but it still worked. When they removed the bad kidney, they would repair the other and hope for the best. Even then, sadly, they said he probably wouldn't live to see his fifth birthday.

Tears rolled down her face as she lifted the gate into place, securing it so he couldn't accidently roll out. As she had done every night since he was hospitalized, she sat in the rocking chair again, weeping and praying until her husband arrived to take her home.

February 1979

A cold wind blew through the trees that early morning. Overgrown bare branches scraped against the sides of the house as bits of rain splashed against the window panes that were next to Serena's bed.

It awakened her slightly, but she merely flipped onto her stomach in search of a more comfortable position. She could sleep through a tornado, or so it was suggested by her brother, teasing her as he always did.

Diane heard the wind and cocked an ear toward the ceiling to see if it waked her children. Hearing nothing, she went back to her breakfast and newspaper. It was almost six o'clock and soon it would be time for her to go to work and for the kids to get up and get ready for school. She heard a faint beeping sound coming from above and knew Serena's alarm was going off. Smiling to herself, she took another sip from her coffee cup.

Serena groaned when she heard the familiar beep, beep, beeps, coming from her alarm clock. Another full week of school greeted her and she was not amused. Grumbling, she threw off her covers and stumbled across her room to the alarm where she silenced the annoying noise with the flick of her finger. Fighting the urge to flop back into her bed, she instead fumbled around in the dark for her robe and slippers, disdaining a light for fear of blinding herself that early. Once she shrugged on her robe, she made her way out of her room and went down the dimly lit staircase to the kitchen.

"Morning, bright eyes," her mom greeted her. Squinting, Serena mumbled something and waved her hand weakly. She shuffled to the fridge and pulled out a carton of orange juice. Tempted to drink straight out of the carton, she glanced at her mom and thought better of it. Instead, she poured herself a glass and gulped it down.

"Some storm, huh?"

"I guess," Serena shrugged. 

"I hope your dad's had an easy night."

"He usually does. Criminals don't like to come out and play in bad weather." Her father, Joe, was a police officer. Serena gulped down another glass and put the carton back in the fridge. She then rinsed her glass and set it in the sink.

"I hope you're more awake during practice today than you are now," Diane said.

Serena looked at her strangely as if the last sentence hadn't registered. Practice? Practice! Serena had almost forgotten about. It was the first day of practice for the girl's softball team and the boy's baseball team at McKinley High School. Serena was a senior and played centerfield, while her brother, Andy, a junior, played second base.

Serena had already made the team, being her team's most valuable player the past two years, the league's player of the year last season, all-state the previous two years, and the pre-season pick for player of the year in Ohio. Other than that, she was pretty good.

Andy, on the other hand, hoped to catch on as an extra infielder for the varsity. He didn't want to play on the junior varsity again, even though he was assured of being a starter. Andy didn't care if he sat the bench, he wanted to be on the varsity team.

"I should be awake by then," Serena answered.

"Well, I've got to run," Diane said as she threw on her coat. "Your dad should be home soon, unless he has a lot of reports to write." She put her purse over her shoulder. "Tell Andy 'good luck' for me."

"I will."

Diane brushed past her, kissing her on her forehead as she went by. "See you at supper," she called before she was out the door.

Serena went back upstairs and into the bathroom where she took a quick shower. After toweling off, she put her robe back on and went back to her room. Once there, she found the clothes she wanted to wear that day and dressed quickly. She combed her short, brown hair into place and glanced at the clock. It was almost six-thirty and time to wake her brother.

Andy never liked being waked by an alarm. It always made him jump out of his skin, no matter how low the setting. He mentioned this to Serena one time and from then on, she took it upon herself to wake him. Like her mother, Serena was always looking out for her little brother. They never fought, seldom argued, and genuinely liked being around each other.

She strode to his door and knocked softly before letting herself in, as was her custom. He was still asleep, his face buried into his pillow. Serena touched him lightly on his shoulder and he woke instantly, turning to her.

"Shit!" he exclaimed softly, eyeing her. "I was in a good dream. If you only could have waited a few minutes."

"Sorry," she said, straightening up, "I can't schedule waking you up around your dreams. Which girl was it about this time?" she smiled sweetly.

Andy stretched and yawned. "No girls, this time. It was about practice. Man, I was hitting everything out of sight, running strong, catching everything. I couldn't do anything wrong. I wish it would happen in real life."

"You'll do fine," she said as she walked to the door. "It's getting late. You better get moving."

"Thanks, sis."

"No problem."

Like his sister before him, he took a quick shower and found clothes to wear. After dressing, he packed his gym bag with his sweat pants, baseball shirt, jock strap with a protective cup, his shoes and his glove. The first few practices would be in the gym until it got a little warmer. The temperature that day was only supposed to get into the low twenties. He grabbed his backpack full of schoolbooks and ambled down the stairs to the kitchen.

After a breakfast of cereal and toast, Andy took his stuff to the garage and threw them into the trunk of the car, a late model '68 Chevelle he and his sister shared. He didn't see his sister's bag, so he knew he'd have to remind her before they left. Coming back into the house, he found her in her room getting her books together.

"I didn't see your stuff in the car," he said, hands on his hips outside her door.

"They're in the back seat. I threw them in Saturday."

"Oh. You about ready to go?"

"Yeah, give me a couple of minutes. I'll be down soon. Warm up the car if you like."

"Okay." Andy went back down, shrugged on a heavy coat, and made his way back to the garage. After opening the garage door, he started the car and backed it onto the driveway. He closed the garage door and waited patiently for his sister.

"Miss Burleson," Mr. Hilliard glared at her from the chalkboard, "if you must daydream, please do it outside my classroom. Now that I've got your attention, what was Lincoln's thoughts during the time in question? Did he want to end the war by any means?"

Serena returned the stare, but she wasn't angry at him. In fact, he was one of the few teachers who kept her interest. Her thoughts had been far away on the softball field. She was anxious to get the season underway and prove to everyone she was the best player in the state.

"Lincoln wanted to end the war no matter what. He didn't care if slavery was ended or if things stayed the same," she answered. She really liked history.

"Very good, Miss Burleson," he said, lightly applauding her. "You weren't quite comatose, were you?"

Serena shook her head and smiled slightly.

"Miss Burleson is correct. Lincoln...."

Serena's thoughts went back to softball. She thought she should have been named the best player in the state the previous year, but it rarely was given to juniors. Serena's stats were better than the girl who won, but it wasn't to be. The girl went on to receive a scholarship to UCLA and Serena was happy for her. Serena, however, had no intention of going that far away to go to school. She received offers from all of the top softball schools in the country, but she wanted to be within a days drive from home. So, when Indiana University beckoned, Serena visited the campus, fell in love with it, and the rest was history. It was a good fit for her, too. Indiana was graduating two of their outfielders, so she could step right in and start in her freshman year. She was happy with her decision and couldn't wait for practice to start.

After a hot post-practice shower, Andy walked up the stairs from the locker room with his buddy, Jim Schaeffer. They had been put through a grueling practice and both were tired. When they reached the student's lounge, Andy looked for Serena, but he didn't see his brown haired, brown eyed, superstar sister anywhere. Jim left and Andy wandered to an unoccupied chair near the door. While putting his bags in the chair next to him, he saw a pair of shoes stop in front of him. Looking up, he saw a blond haired, green eyed girl staring at him. It was Jenny Hobbs, a girl with whom he had been partnered during their sophomore biology class. They had gotten along very well doing experiments and dissections together, but never dated, both having been involved with someone else at the time. She was of medium height and build and he remembered her being on Serena's team, but he couldn't remember her position.

"Hi Andy," she said, still looking down at him. "Can I sit with you?"

Andy blinked for a second, trying to get his thoughts together. Very few girls talked to him out of the blue, especially one as pretty as Jenny. Grabbing his books once again and emptying the seat, he said, "Uh, sure, Jenny. Sit down."

She tossed her bags to the floor and sat down, her body turned his way. "Wow, what a practice! Don't ask how it went." She pushed her wavy blonde hair away from her eyes. "How have you been, Andy?" Her eyes shone and she smiled at him. She had really liked him when they were partners, but they went different directions once the experiments ended. Thinking back, she would have liked to have dated him if she hadn't been dating someone else at the time.

"So, so. Practice was a pain. I think Anderson was trying to coach track instead of baseball. All we did was run. I feel about as good as that frog we cut up last year." He liked her smile. It was friendly and genuine.

"Yeah, I know that feeling," she agreed, her smile wider. "I'm pretty sore." She looked around and saw they were somewhat alone, with only a few people hanging around nearby. "So, are you and Kathy still dating?"

"Nah," he said, "we were never a real couple. We just sort of hung out together, you know, just as friends. She's dating Keith Ross now, I think."

"Hanging around with anyone in particular now?"

"No. How about you and Terry?"

Jenny and Terry Kell had been dating at the time a year before. "No, we split up a few months ago. The Christmas Dance, I think. He wanted to get more serious, a lot more serious, if you get my drift, and I didn't."

Andy's eyes widened and he understood very well. "Oh."

"So, you waiting on Serena?"

"Yeah, we drive together every day, or at least try to. Most of the time, there's no conflict. If there is, one of us takes the bus. No problem. The bus stop's only a block away." He looked around, but didn't see her. Not that he was in any hurry for her arrival. He was quite content talking to Jenny and he was starting to relax a bit. Looking back, he really missed being partners with her. She had been a lot of fun and she wasn't squeamish when it came to the dissections. In fact, she was quite skilled with the knife and could find things easier than he. She was the main reason they got mostly "A's" on their reports.

"Yeah, my mom's picking me up in a few minutes. I wish I had a car to drive, but my folks need them. It's not so bad, I guess."

Andy looked down at his hands as he was starting to get nervous again. He wanted to offer to take her home, but he didn't know how to approach it. He wanted to ask her out, but he was afraid to be turned down. He hated being shy. Here was a really sweet, pretty girl talking to him and he couldn't keep a conversation going. Andy looked back at her and she was smiling at him, obviously enjoying being in his company. He couldn't remember being nervous around her before. Maybe it was because she was dating someone then and she was safe. Andy smiled and looked down again.

"I guess so," he said softly, sighing and looking the other way. "So," he said, bringing his attention back to her, "how's school going for you?"

"Not too bad. I wish you were still my lab partner. I haven't had a decent one this year."

"You know I hate science. I bitched about it enough last year." Although he loved biology for a time last year, he mused. "Give me math and business and I'm a happy camper."

"Hey guys," Serena said, leaning over the back of the chairs between the two. She had been watching from a safe distance before she decided to make her entrance.

"Damn," Andy muttered to himself. "Hey Serena," he said, trying to be cheerful. At any other time, he would have been glad to see his sister and go home. This time was different. "You're out kind of early."

"Same time as usual. Hey Jenny!" she turned her attention to her teammate.

"Hey Serena, long time, no see."

"You're interrupting us," Andy said quietly, looking up at her.

"What?" she asked.

"You interrupted us. You interrupted a great dream this morning and now, you've interrupted us."

"Sorry. It's the sister in me."

Andy turned to Jenny. "What's a guy supposed to do with a sister like that?"

Jenny eyed the door leading to the parking lot and saw her mom's car at the curb. "I know what you can do, but I have to go. Mom's here." Jenny stood up and gathered her books and gym bag.

"What?" he stammered, as she began to walk to the door. Jenny looked behind her and laughed softly, her soft curled hair bouncing lightly on her collar. He looked at his sister for help. She jerked her head in Jenny's direction and motioned to her. 

My God, she thought, do I have to write him directions? 

Andy finally got the hint, getting up quickly. "Hey Jenny," he called, "wait up. I'll walk with you." Jenny stopped at the door and waited patiently as Andy gathered his belongings.

They met at the door, with Serena trailing a safe distance behind, and walked to her mom's car, a brown Toyota. They walked slowly, not in any hurry to get there. Andy saw the silhouette in the driver's seat and he assumed it was Jenny's mom. They got to the car too fast for Andy. Jenny opened the back seat door and put her books and gym bag inside before she shut it.

"See you tomorrow after practice?" Jenny asked, her hand on the door handle.

"Sure," Andy answered. He looked down and scuffed his shoe against the wet pavement. Hands in his pockets, he looked back at Jenny, who had a bemused look on her face. He glanced back at Serena and said, "You know, back in the lounge, you said you had a solution to Serena interrupting me. What is it?"

Jenny smiled and reached into her pockets. She produced a scrap piece of paper and a pen and wrote something on it. Taking a step forward, she pressed the note into his hand. "Call me," she said softly before turning and opening the door. Before he knew it, she was gone and he was staring at the red tail lights of their car as they disappeared around the corner. Serena was at his side and nudged him. Wordlessly, they walked together toward their car.

Diane loved it when Joe was spontaneous. When he beckoned her upstairs to the bedroom when she came home from work, she didn't question it. She knew they had at least an hour before the kids were due home after their practice, plenty of time for them to have some fun. Except on weekends, it was difficult for them to get together because of their differing schedules.

After almost twenty years of marriage, Joe lusted for Diane as much as when they were newlyweds. Even after two kids and thirty extra pounds, he thought she still looked fantastic and felt she was as sexy as ever. When they were able to sleep together, he couldn't keep his hands off of her, playing with her and teasing her. Their sessions were usually long, slow, and sensual, taking their time and reveling in the moment.

This was not one of those times, but Diane enjoyed a little "quickie" after work if she wasn't too tired. He helped her undress quickly and soon, they were naked and under the covers. She was already getting moist from anticipation as his hands roamed between her legs. Her kisses, soft and sensual at first, soon became hot and fiery against his lips. It had been a while since they had made love and she missed it terribly. 

Diane climaxed loudly and quickly once his mouth and tongue found her clitoris. He attacked it with fervor and gusto, savoring her special taste and enjoying the sounds she made. He never tired of doing that for her. 

Joe didn't last long once he was inside her. She seemed tighter than usual as she ground her pelvis against him, urging him to thrust harder and not hold back. She wrapped her hands around his buttocks and pulled him into her as hard as she could stand it. His release was strong and powerful and Diane could feel each and every burst that came from him, filling her and satiating her.

They rested for awhile as he toyed with her delicate nipples, teasing them with the tips of his fingers. Oh, how she wanted to lay with him for the rest of the evening! But, the kids would be home soon and there was supper to be fixed, although Joe had started a pot roast. With a contented sigh, Diane kissed him, and they got dressed again before heading down to the kitchen

"So, when is he going to call me?" Jenny asked Serena as they got dressed for practice that Friday.

"I don't know," Serena answered as she tugged a sports bra over her small, pert breasts. "He's been pretty busy with practice and school work. I think he had a few tests this week, too."

"I mean, I gave him my number. What more does he want?" Jenny sat down on the bench in front of her locker. "We sit and talk after practice. I know he likes me." She looked up at Serena as she pulled on a sweatshirt. "We had such a great time in biology last year."

"He likes you, Jenny, he really does," Serena said. "He talks about you a lot when we drive home. He's just really shy about calling girls."

"But, we're friends," Jenny protested.

"I know that, but he was even weird about calling Kathy on the phone, and they were pretty tight, no matter what Andy says. Even when they were dating, he always had to get up the courage to call her."


For Love of a Brother Ch. 01



Jenny looked down, deep in thought. "Does he know what position I play?"

"Sure he does. He asked a few days ago. Didn't he ask you?"

"No. I didn't tell him."

"Why?"

"Catcher is such an unladylike position. I always look like I'm giving birth in a rice paddy."

Serena laughed. "My God, Jenny, it's not that bad. Besides, he was okay with it."

"What did he say?"

"He said, 'Cool, I knew she was tough.'"

"Wonderful, great," Jenny moaned sarcastically. "Now he thinks I'm tough. Just wonderful." She shook her head from side to side.

"I think he's fine with it. Anyway, don't worry," Serena laughed, "I'll work on him about calling you."

"Will you? I'd really appreciate it." Jenny looked hopeful.

"Sure, no problem," Serena said as she stood up and started to walk to the gym. "I always try to help the disadvantaged!" Serena ducked and ran as Jenny's glove sailed by her head, landing with a thud against one of the lockers.

"I'll get you for that!" Jenny yelled as she retrieved her glove from the floor. "I don't care how fast you can run!" She then ran after her friend towards the gym.

Jenny was in a foul mood that evening at supper. She had a poor practice, Andy had a late practice, and her mom came earlier than usual so she didn't get to talk to him. He still hadn't called her, although she reasoned he hadn't had time yet. Her twelve year old sister, Melissa, was getting on her nerves, like she normally did. Jenny didn't feel like talking to anyone and any question directed at her was met with a terse, one word answer.

After she reluctantly helped her dad with the dishes, she went to her room to start on her homework. She worked weekends at McDonald's and she liked to get her school work out of the way. She didn't want it piled up and waiting for her on Sunday night. An hour or two later, she had quite a bit of it done, so she put it aside and decided to turn on her stereo. She was one of the few teenagers who couldn't do homework with music playing.

Expecting to hear Led Zeppelin or The Stones come through her speakers, she cringed when the twang of Conway Twitty pierced her eardrums. Jenny loathed country music and her sister was the only one in the family who liked it. She wasn't allowed in Jenny's room without permission, but that usually didn't stop her.

That was just the last freakin' straw for Jenny as she flung open her door and stormed into the livingroom to confront her sister. Her mother and Melissa were seated on the sofa watching television and her father had gone out for the evening, bowling, Jenny thought.

Glaring at her sister, Jenny said menacingly, "Stay the hell out of my room and keep your grubby little hands off my stereo!"

"I didn't touch your stupid stereo," Melissa retorted indignantly.

"You did too! It was on a country station. I hate country and everyone knows it. You're the only one who likes country. Stay out of my room or I'll..."

"Stop it!" Angie, their mother said. "That's enough out of both of you." She stood up between them. "You," she pointed at Jenny, "in the kitchen." She turned to her left. "And you," she pointed at Melissa, "I'll deal with you later."

Jenny stomped into the kitchen ahead of Angie as Melissa smiled triumphantly as she had gotten her sister in trouble again.

Arms crossed, Jenny placed her butt against the sink and glowered in silence.

"What's gotten into you?" Angie asked after she shut the swinging door.

"Nothing."

"You call that nothing? You haven't had a civil word for anyone the last few days. What's up?"

"Nothing."

"Come on, Jenny," Angie said, moving to her side. "It has to be more than Melissa messing with your stereo. You usually don't give that a second thought. Something else is bothering you. You can tell me. Maybe I can help."

"I don't know," Jenny said softly, picking imaginary fuzz from her jeans. "She's always messing with my stuff and she won't stay out of my room. She's driving me nuts!"

"I'll straighten her out," her mom assured her. "What else is wrong?" Angie's dark brown eyes were staring at her daughter intently. Jenny knew she wouldn't get out of the kitchen without telling her something. Damn! She wanted to keep it private for a while longer.

"It's just that, well, there's a boy I like at school. I'd like to date him, but he won't call me. His sister says he's shy and he likes me, but I'm getting tired of waiting. We talk every day after practice and I know he likes me....I don't know." She sighed loudly.

"Is this the same boy who walks with you to the car?"

"Yes."

"He's very good looking. I can see why you like him." Angie smiled at her daughter.

"We were lab partners in biology last year," Jenny continued, "and we had a great time. I don't know. I just thought he would have called by now."

"Why don't you call him?"

"I thought it would be better if he called. I mean, I gave him our number. Isn't that a big enough hint?"

"Better for whom? You like him. He likes you. It seems like nothing will happen unless one of you breaks the ice. I had to do it with your father."

"Really?" Jenny exclaimed, her interest piqued.

"Yes. It was pretty much the same thing. I wanted him to call. He didn't, so I said the heck with it. I called him and we started dating very soon after that. I guess what I'm trying to say is this; don't worry about who should call whom. If you like him that much, give him a call. It doesn't have to long and drawn out. Just talk about practice or school, stuff you normally talk about. If he likes you and is as shy as you say, then he'll really appreciate the call and he won't be afraid to call you."

"I guess," Jenny said softly. She still wasn't entirely convinced about the whole thing, but it made sense. But, she did miss not talking to him that day, even though their conversations usually only lasted about ten minutes or so before her mom picked her up. What the hell, she certainly didn't have anything to lose by calling him.

Jenny's eyes brightened as she looked up. "Thanks, mom," she said before she hugged her. "I guess I need to talk to you more often."

"Any time," Angie replied. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll have a piece of your sister." Angie went back into the livingroom and began to rip into Melissa.

Jenny waited until the door closed before she picked up the kitchen phone and began dialing. She had memorized Andy's number after Serena had given it to her. It was unlisted, being that their father was a cop. She dialed it quickly and waited as she heard it ring on the other end.

Andy was lying in bed resting when the phone rang in the hallway. He was about to get up and answer it, but Serena was already out of her room and calling downstairs to say she had it.

"Burleson residence," she said as she answered.

"Serena?" Jenny asked. She had never talked to Serena on the phone before and she wasn't sure if it was her or their mother.

"Yes."

"It's me, Jenny. Is Andy there?"

"Hey Jenny! Couldn't wait for him to call, could you?"

"No. I figured if I waited any longer, we'd be old and gray before he called."

"How true. I'll get him for you."

"Thanks."

Serena held the phone away from her and yelled in Andy's direction, "Hey Andy, the phone's for you."

Andy jumped out of his bed and made his way to the phone. As he reached for the phone, he asked, "Who is it?"

"Some blond bimbo," she answered, grinning. Shrieking could be heard through the mouthpiece on the other end.

He took the phone from Serena. "Jenny?"

"Oh, great, you automatically assumed it was me. She says blond bimbo, and you knew it was me! That's wonderful! She's dead meat. You tell her that for me. You're next!" Jenny tried to act angry, but she wasn't doing a very good job of it.

"I...I..." Andy tried to speak, but he couldn't say anything.

"And to think I was going to be nice and call you up and ask how practice was for you. This is the thanks I get. I should have dissected you instead of the frog!"

"But, I..."

"No, no. It's too late for an apology. I won't accept it." By now, she was giggling.

"I didn't mean it..."

"Andy."

"What?"

"I'm not mad at you. I was joking."

"Really?"

"I will, however, do something evil to that brat sister of yours when I get my hands on her."

"Don't hurt her too much. I'm kind of fond of her."

"Okay, I won't hurt her too much. How was practice? Sorry, I couldn't stick around. Mom came a bit early."

"It was okay. A bit tiring, but I did pretty good. I think I'll catch on as a reserve."

"Good, I know that's what you want. I hope it works out for you."

"Thanks. How's practice going for you?"

"Not too bad. I've been working with the pitchers a lot, trying to get them in shape. My hitting's been so-so, but it'll come around." She became silent for a moment. "You sound kind of tired, Andy. You feeling okay?"

"Yeah, I'm okay. Just a bit tired, I guess," he answered. "I had quite a few tests this week, too, on top of the practices. I guess it's caught up to me."

"Well, you've got the weekend to rest up."

"True."

"Got any plans?"

"None. I thought I'd just vegetate and take it easy. You?"

"I open the store tomorrow for eight hours and I work noon to four on Sunday."

"Oh. I guess I shouldn't keep you. You'll have to get to bed soon, won't you?"

"I've got a little while before I have to worry about it." Just then, an idea hit her. "Hey Andy?" she said.

"Yeah."

"Can you hold a bit? I have to ask mom something."

"Sure."

Jenny put down the phone and opened the door to the livingroom. Angie and Melissa were still sitting on the sofa. Melissa was pouting and giving Jenny a nasty look that Angie didn't see. "Hey mom?" she said.

"Yes," Angie answered.

"Could I have Andy over for supper tomorrow night?"

"We're not having anything special," Angie answered, "just burgers and fries."

"That's fine. I'm sure he'll be okay with that. Is it okay?"

"Sure it is. I'd like to meet him." Melissa's eyes brightened as she found a new way to torment her sister.

"Great! Thanks mom." Jenny hurried back to the phone.

"Hey Andy, you still there?"

"Yeah, I'm still here," he said tiredly.

"Would you like to come over tomorrow night for supper? Mom says it's okay."

"Well, I..."

"We don't have to go anywhere afterwards," she continued excitedly, "we've got a stereo, TV, billiards, and table tennis in the basement. We can just spend the evening hanging out down there."

"Sounds great, Jenny," he said. He wasn't sure about it, but he really liked her, always did. He had been wanting to ask her out ever since they met up again, but he couldn't get up the nerve. "What time?"

"I get home around three, three thirty. Give me some time to clean up. Maybe around four. Is that okay with you?"

"Four is fine."

"Great," she sighed. That's done, she laughed to herself. She glanced at the clock and saw it was getting late. She did have to get up early, very early, but she didn't want to stop talking to him. She was torn, but she knew she had to cut their conversation short. Besides, they had the entire evening the next day to talk. "Well," she sighed again, "it is getting kind of late. I hate to cut this short."

"That's okay. We can talk tomorrow," he said, stifling a yawn. Why was he so tired?

"I guess I'll let you go then," she said, definitely not wanting the call to end.

"Oh, Jenny," he said quickly, "where do you live?"

"3127 Glenmore Circle. Do you know where it is?"

"Yeah, I know where it is. It's actually not too far from me."

"Really? Where do you guys live?"

"Ewell Street near Riley."

"That's not far at all." Jenny hesitated, dreading the end. "Well, I really must be going. I'll see you tomorrow at four."

"I'll count the minutes."

"You're silly," she laughed. It was the first time she felt he was relaxed with her all week. "I'll see you."

"Okay. See you." They hung up at the same time. With a dopey grin on his face, Andy floated back to his room.

Jenny's hand fell away from the phone and she pumped her fist in the air. "Yeah!" she exclaimed to no one in particular.

Andy woke up the next morning annoyed. He thought he had gotten enough sleep, but he woke up tired and ragged. He had felt sore and out of shape for the entire week. He knew his coach was working them harder than in past years, but Andy felt it shouldn't be bothering him this much. "Maybe I'm just out of shape," he mumbled to himself before he flopped back down for another hour of uneasy sleep.

He spent the greater part of the afternoon getting ready for the evening. Once he got up again, he felt better and the tiredness was almost gone. He took an extra-long shower and took more time than usual getting his hair just right. Since they weren't going anywhere after supper, he decided on wearing a pair of jeans and a brown corduroy shirt. He had shaved, although he didn't really need it, and put on a sparse amount of aftershave. Once he was satisfied with his appearance, he glanced at the clock and saw it was a few minutes past three-thirty.

He stepped over to Serena's room and sat down in a chair near the door. "Going with the casual look, I see," she said while glancing over a book she was reading.

"My suit's at the cleaners," he replied.

"You're quick today," she said, smiling. "So, what are you guys going to do?"

"Just hang out, I guess. No specific plans. Just have supper and play some pool and ping pong in her basement," he shrugged.

"Watch out for her sister. Jenny says she's a terror."

"She's not mentioned much about her," he replied as he removed some dirt from under his thumb nail.

"Probably with good reason. She says she's a brat."

"I'm used to it."

"Well, well, feeling a bit frisky today, are we?" Serena laughed. "I'm sure I can regale Jenny with some sordid details about you."

Andy's eyes widened. There were some things she could spill that didn't need to be brought up any time in the near future. "Okay, okay, I'll back down. Geez, some people are so sensitive."

"Yes, I am. Remember that." Serena eyed him closely. Something about him didn't seem quite right. She couldn't place a finger on it. "Are you feeling okay?" she asked.

"Yeah, I'm fine," he answered, a bit annoyed. He didn't feel one hundred percent, but not as good as he wanted. What did she see? "Why do you ask?"

"Oh, nothing. You just look a bit tired, that's all." That was it, she thought. His eyes looked droopy.

"I think Coach Anderson wants us to run track this year, too," he said smiling. "I guess I'm a little tired." That wasn't too hard to admit, he thought.

"Maybe you need to catch up on some more sleep."

"Yeah, I'll do that." He got up and stood by the door. "See you later."

"Have a good time. Tell me about it when you get back."

"I don't think so."

"I'll get it out of one of you."

Andy thought for a second. "Yes, I think you will."

He arrived promptly at four and saw Jenny peering out of the front window. She met him at the door before he had a chance to knock or ring the bell.

"It's about time you showed up," she greeted him. She was wearing a white sweater, jeans, and sandals. He inhaled deeply. She had that wonderful, freshly bathed smell about her.

Andy checked his watch and saw the time. He smiled and showed it to her.

"I was only teasing," she said. "Come on in and I'll introduce you to everyone."

She led him into the livingroom and took his jacket, putting it in the hall closet. He didn't see anyone there or in the kitchen. Once she closed the closet door, she led him past the kitchen to a doorway that went to the basement. Turning back to him, she said, "Mom and dad are downstairs watching TV. I think my sister's in her room sulking about something. Unfortunately, you'll get to meet her later." Without waiting for a reply, she led him down the stairs to a brightly lit furnished basement.

"Hey guys, there's someone I'd like you to meet." Heads and bodies turned on the sofa as Andy came to the bottom step. Nervously, he made to the carpeted floor and saw Jenny's mom first. At first glance, he thought he saw Jenny's twin, but a second look showed her to look like an older sister, not a mother. She mirrored Jenny in every way except for her brown eyes and longer, straighter hair. He could see where Jenny got her good looks and he also got a glimpse as to what Jenny would look like twenty years into the future.

"It's good to meet you, Andy," Angie said. She turned to her right. "This is Jenny's dad, Brad."

Brad Hobbs stood up to his full height, slowly and deliberately, as was his custom when Jenny brought friends over. He actually couldn't stand up fully, the ceiling was too low. The ceiling was a full foot over Andy's head, he being five foot seven, so he stood in awe trying to calculate Brad's height.

"Oh, daddy, quit trying to intimidate him," Jenny said. Brad broke into a smile and moved over to Andy.

"Jenny says you're a ball player, too," he boomed. "Good for you." He extended his hand and Andy took it, dwarfing his. "Good grip," he exclaimed. "Well, we'll leave you two alone," he said as he and Angie brushed past them. They went up the stairs quickly and shut the door behind them.

"How...?"

"Six foot ten," Jenny answered. "Yes, I know he's big. I guess I should have warned you."

"Yeah, that would have helped," Andy said.

"Well, come on over and sit with me. Do you want to watch TV or listen to the stereo?"

"I don't know," he said. "I'm not really in the mood for either."

"What do you want to do then?"

Andy thought for a moment until he had an answer. "You'll probably think it's weird," he said finally.

"Try me." She was staring at him now, her eyes almost level with his.

"I thought maybe we could just sit and talk. We really haven't had a chance to talk by ourselves without people or family around."

Jenny smiled. "I'd like that."

She led him to the love seat and she turned off the TV before sitting down next to him. They sat close, but not touching. For the next hour and a half, they talked. They talked about anything and everything that crossed their minds. School, practice, dating, food, jobs, music, and the movies, they covered a lot of topics and got to know each other a little better. All of Andy's nervousness and apprehension melted away like sun-kissed snow. He almost felt as relaxed with her as he had with Kathy.

When Angie came down the stairs to tell them it was time for supper, they were engaged in a friendly argument.

"It's a date," Jenny said.

"It is not. It's friends getting together," Andy replied.

"It's a date," Jenny insisted.

"It is not, Jenny," Andy said as he looked at Angie.

"What are you two fussing about?" Angie asked as she came down to the bottom of the steps. Right away, she could tell they weren't angry with each other.

Jenny replied before Andy could speak. "I say we are on a date tonight and he insists we're just two friends hanging out together."

"Sounds serious," Angie said. "Can this wait until after supper?"

Jenny and Andy looked at each other, shrugged their shoulders, and said in unison, "Sure." They laughed together as they followed Angie up the stairs.

Andy's first impression of Melissa didn't bother him, but merely amused him. After Jenny introduced him to her, Melissa blurted out, "Are you her boyfriend?"

Jenny rolled her eyes as she sighed and was about to say something, but Andy beat her to it. "Well," he said slowly, "I'm a boy and I'm her friend, so I guess you could call me her boyfriend."

Melissa had no reply for that and sat down. Jenny smirked and gently jabbed Andy in the ribs in appreciation. 

As they sat down, Angie said, "It's nothing fancy, Andy, but I hope you like hamburgers and fries."




For Love of a Brother Ch. 01



"I love 'em, ma'am," he replied.

"There's no need to be formal," she said. "Please call me Angie."

"Okay, Angie."

The supper was very good and Andy had seconds of everything. Once dessert was finished, Angie shooed them out of the kitchen and told Melissa to help her with the dishes.

"But, mom," she whined, "it's Jenny's turn."

"Jenny has a guest and she'll take your turn next time," she explained. "Now, come on, it'll only take fifteen or twenty minutes."

"Oh, all right," she said.

Jenny gestured to Andy and they went back down to the basement. Once there, Jenny turned to him. "So, what do you want to do?"

Andy eyed the pool table, knowing he was good at billiards. "We could play some pool, I guess."

"Sounds fine. I'm pretty good, though, so watch out."

"Right," he scoffed. 

"You don't believe me?"

"I don't think I'll have too much trouble beating you."

"We'll see," Jenny smiled. They set up the balls and Jenny suggested Andy break. He did and managed to get a ball into one of the pockets. It was the last one he would pocket because after he missed on his next shot, Jenny cleared the table in quick fashion. Andy looked on in amazement as she pocketed ball after ball. Most of the shots weren't difficult, but she set up each shot beautifully and made some hard shots, too. He could only shake his head in admiration once she finished.

"You are fantastic!" he exclaimed once she was done. "I should have known you'd be good, having a table in your basement."

"So, do you believe me now?" she smiled.

"Without question."

"Come on, we'll play again."

"And get my butt kicked again? No thanks."

"Come on," she said earnestly. "I'll show you some stuff and you'll get better."

"Okay," he said, "but there won't be any competition from me."

They played four or five more times and Jenny won each one easily, but her tips about angles and setting up shots helped Andy and by the time they finished, he was confident he could beat any of his buddies.

"You should be a pro," he said as they put the cue sticks away.

"Nah, I'm not that good, believe me. I go down to the pool hall on Stratton Street and get my butt beat regularly. Those guys are the pros. I'm getting better, though."

Jenny flipped on the stereo without asking Andy and turned on a rock station. They sat down on the love seat again, this time, a little closer. "I hope Melissa doesn't come down and bother us," Jenny said.

"Will she?"

"Mom said she'd keep her upstairs, but she can be sneaky at times."

Andy noticed musical tapes in the stereo cabinet and decided to change the subject. "What kind of tapes you got there?" He got up and moved closer to see the titles.

"Pretty much anything," Jenny replied as she moved to his side. She inhaled and could get a faint whiff of his aftershave. She liked it.

Andy flipped through the tapes seeing country, rock, and classical. His eyes widened. "Cool, you've got Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, all the great ones!"

"You like that stuff?" Jenny asked.

"Oh, yeah. It's great to listen to after a bad day. I play Mozart on the way home after school if I had a tough test. It really relaxes me." Jenny made a face. "What? You don't like classical music?"

"That's my mom's stuff. I only like rock, the harder, the better."

"Man, Jenny, you ought to listen to this, I mean, really listen. It's really soothing and relaxing. You could use it to relax you if Melissa gets on your nerves. It really works, believe me. Do you want to listen to some now?"

"I am very relaxed right now. I don't need to listen to it."

"Oh, come on Jenny. Listen to just one side and I think you'll like it."

"Well, alright, I'll listen to one side," she relented.

"Great," he said. He turned back to the tapes and studied them, trying to decide which one to pick. After a few minutes, he finally settled on Mozart's "Requiem". He handed it to Jenny. "Here, put this one in." She did as asked and then, they sat on the love seat again.

"Now, just listen," he instructed and they settled back as the first movement began. Call it a revelation, call it an epiphany, but as each note washed over her, Jenny realized how truly peaceful the music was and was beginning to enjoy it. Slowly, and without thinking, she rested her head on Andy's shoulder and sighed. Andy smiled and put his arm around her shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. Without a word, they listened and took in each note. Andy, who had listened to "Requiem" many times, still enjoyed it as if it were the first time. Mozart was his favorite composer. Jenny, on the other hand, was mesmerized by the music. She had never taken the time to really listen to classical music and never realized how soothing and relaxing it really was. Maybe Andy had picked out the perfect piece for her, she didn't know for sure, but she knew she wanted to listen to more.

When the first side ended, she was still against him and not wanting to move. Not only was she relaxed, she was melted putty who couldn't move if she wanted. It was more than just the music that pleased her. She loved being close to Andy and being held by him. She could stay that way for a long time. "You were so right," she murmured, "that was so neat. I never thought I would ever like something like that. I guess I never really listened to it before."

"The other side is pretty good, too, although it's a bit slower and sadder," he replied. He made no move to change the tape. Jenny felt fantastic against him and he loved the scents coming off of her, the shampoo, the soap, and the light perfume she was wearing. He definitely was not in any hurry for her to leave his side.

Just then, the basement door opened and Melissa bounded down the stairs. Reluctantly, Jenny's head left his shoulder and she looked over her own shoulder at her little sister. Shit, she hissed to herself.

"Whatcha doing?" Melissa asked.

"Just listening to some music," Jenny answered. 

"I don't hear anything."

"The first side just ended."

"I bet you guys were kissing."

"Melissa," Jenny sighed, trying to control her temper, "we were not kissing. We were just talking about the music when you came down. What do you want?"

Melissa ignored the question and went over to the stereo and saw the tape. "Mozart?" she said, puzzled, "I've never heard of that group."

Andy laughed. "Mozart wasn't a group. He was an Austrian composer from the 1700's."

"Oh."

"Melissa," Jenny said, exasperated, "what do you want?"

"Mom says to come up for some popcorn if you want."

"Alright, we'll be up in a few minutes. Now, could you leave us alone?"

"So you can start kissing again?"

"Melissa!!!" Jenny made a quick move from the sofa towards her sister.

Melissa turned quickly and bounded back up the stairs as fast as she had come down them, shutting the door loudly behind her.

"That wasn't so bad," Andy said.

"Yeah, right," Jenny replied. She stood up slowly and stretched. "Come on," she said, "let's get some popcorn."

Jenny gave him a bowl as her parents sat around the kitchen table. She handed him a can of pop without asking him if he wanted any before they sat down with them. 

"So," Brad said out of the blue, "did she beat the crap out of you in pool?"

"Well, in so many words, yes," Andy replied. "Many times, in fact."

"Don't worry about it. She beats all of her boyfriends."

"Daddy!" Jenny squealed.

"All of your boyfriends?" Andy asked.

"It's only been a couple," she said.

"Check the notches on her cue," Brad suggested.

"Daddy! Stop it," Jenny wailed.

"So, how many were there before me?" Andy asked, obviously enjoying making her squirm.

"I don't have to listen to this. I'm going back downstairs. You guys can have your fun without me." Jenny stood up and began to move towards the basement door. She turned back to Andy. "If you know what's good for you, you'll come down with me." She gave him a smile before heading down the stairs.

"Look out," Angie said, "she's already setting down rules."

Andy laughed and took his snack and drink down the stairs. Jenny had already set her stuff on one of the tables when he appeared at the bottom of the steps. "You can set your things over here with mine," she instructed. He walked over and did as he was asked.

"So, do you want to listen to the rest of the tape?" she asked. 

"Sure."

Jenny went over to the stereo, flipped the cartridge, and sat down with Andy, who had his drink in hand. They sat in silence, letting the music wash over them. Soon, Jenny had settled against him and Andy had his arm around her once more. They stayed that way long after the tape finished.

"This is so nice," Jenny murmured, not wishing to move her head from his shoulder. "I don't want to move."

"I'm certainly not going to stop you," Andy said, not wanting her to move, either.

They stayed that way for quite a while, neither saying anything and just enjoying each other's company. About fifteen minutes later, Jenny sat up, complaining of a stiff neck. She moved her head from side to side, trying to stretch it and loosen the tight muscles. Without any hesitation, Andy started to massage the back of her neck and shoulders as he had done so often for his sister. Serena got stiff necks quite often.

Jenny bent her head forward as he worked his fingers into the muscles that lined her neck. He was providing instant relief for her and soon, she was out of her discomfort. When he finished, she said, "I think I'll have to keep you around for a while." She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek.

"What was that for?" he asked, quite surprised.

"I just wanted to thank you, that's all," her bright green eyes sparkling.

"Well, you're welcome," he replied, grinning.

"You know," Jenny continued, "I'm having a really good time for a first date."

"It's not a date."

"Is too."

"Is not."

"Okay, so if this isn't a date, when are we going to have one?" she demanded.

"I don't know."

"You know," she said coyly, "I can't let you kiss me until we have a date."

"You already kissed me," he pointed out.

"Oh, no, that was a friends getting together kiss," she replied. "I was simply repaying you for the massage."

"Oh, I see," he nodded. "Well, I guess we better have a date then. I certainly wouldn't want to break any of your rules."

"No, that wouldn't be good."

"Well, how about the Valentine's Dance next Saturday? Unless, of course, you've already got a date."

"Andy!" she said indignantly, "I do not already have a date for that. I was hoping you'd ask me. I'd love to go. I'll pay for the tickets if you want."

"No, no. I've got some money." He worked summers at one of the local department stores in the stock room. "I'll get the tickets this week."

"Great." Jenny smiled to herself. She was so happy she asked him over. It was a very memorable first date, no matter what he said to the contrary.

They spent the rest of the evening playing pool and ping pong, then settling down once more to Brahms and Beethoven. Before they knew it, it was around midnight and time for Andy to leave. They took their bowls and drinks and made their way up to the kitchen. There was but one light on and everyone had already gone to bed.

"Just put them on the table," she said to Andy about his bowl and glass, "I get them later."

She got his coat from the closet and pulled one out for herself. Handing his coat to him, she said, "Come on, I'll walk you out."

Closing the door behind her, she looked at Andy sadly. She really didn't want the evening to end and she wished she didn't have to wait until Monday after practice to see him again. Andy took her hand as they went down the steps and kept it, much to Jenny's pleasure and surprise. It felt very good to her. Slowly, they made their way to his car. He stopped with his back against the door and looked at her. He was already as happy with her as he had ever been with Kathy, although he and Kathy never really dated that much. He still liked her a lot, though, and was sad when they broke up.

"I guess I'll see you Monday," he said softly, his breath steaming in the frosty air.

"Yeah," she answered, a bit distracted with her own thoughts.

"Have a good day at work."

"It should be fine. It's only four hours."

"Yeah, well," he said, "I better get going."

"Yeah," she sighed. She really hated to see him go. She let him go, though, and watched his car until it disappeared into the night.

Annoyed and a bit scared could have been two of the thoughts going through Andy's mind the next morning when he woke. He had a hard time sleeping and he couldn't blame it on Jenny or their evening together. Of course, he enjoyed their time together and he thought about it all the way home, but he was not the type to let something like that keep him awake most of the night. In his mind, it really wasn't a date and nothing out of the ordinary happened. There was no goodnight kiss or anything like that. He held her hand briefly, but that wasn't enough to elicit any special thoughts or dreams. He was tired when he got up and he had to use the bathroom. It took a long time before his bladder let loose and he had a burning sensation when it did. When he did finish, he still felt like he had to go, but there was nothing left. He had this happen to him numerous times over the course of the past few months, but he had thought nothing of it. He felt normal almost all of the rest of the time.

He went back to bed, but sleep eluded him once again. Andy tossed and turned and tried to get comfortable, but it was useless. Finally, at eight o'clock, he gave up and got up for the day. He had been tired all week and he blamed it on the rigorous workouts the coach was giving them, plus the tests he had to study for, but now he was worried it was something else. Looking back, he could remember times in the past few months when he was tired for no good reason. He just didn't think anything of it. It wasn't just a matter of being tired, it was a general shortness of breath whenever he needed extra energy for running, jumping, or any type of exertion. He couldn't put his finger on it, but deep down, he knew something was wrong. For the time being, he decided to keep it to himself in hopes it was a passing thing. There was no need to get everyone in a panic should there be nothing wrong.

On Monday, school passed by slowly, and for Andy, it seemed like an eternity. His sleep was no better that morning and he was very tired. He didn't nod off in class, but he came close. He didn't know how he was going to be able to get through practice, but he was going to do his best. As the last bell chimed for the end of the day, he walked slowly to his locker and began to separate the books he would be taking home with him and those that would stay. He didn't hear the footsteps behind him as he fumbled around with some of the notebooks.

"Hey, Andy," a familiar voice said behind him.

Andy turned and saw Jenny and he smiled. "Hey, what are you doing here?"

She didn't answer, but was staring at him, studying him.

"What?" he asked, puzzled at her expression.

"You don't look good. Are you okay?" she asked, very concerned.

"What do you mean? I feel fine," he lied.

"I don't know, Andy," she said, still studying him. "You just look really tired and your color is off. Are you sure you feel okay?"

"I'm fine," he insisted, a bit edgy now and getting annoyed with the questioning.

"Okay," she said softly. "I was just asking. Come on. I'll walk you to the locker room." 

"Sure," he said, still in thought about what she said. If she noticed something different about him, then it was noticeable and he needed to get it checked out. He closed his locker and walked with her to the locker room.

"I think he's sick, Serena," Jenny insisted as they got dressed for practice.

"I know," Serena replied. "Mom and I noticed it yesterday. We couldn't get two words out of him and all he wanted to do was lie around all day. I even tried to get him to talk about you, but he wasn't interested. Usually, I can't get him to shut up when your name comes up. I'll definitely get on him after practice."

"I hope so. He seemed irritated that I asked him about it. I really think something's bothering him." Jenny looked down at her feet. I hope he's okay, she said silently to herself.

Practice did not go well for Andy that afternoon. He was tired, out of breath, and slow to react to anything hit or pitched his way. Ground balls that were normally within his reach weren't caught. His throws, normally crisp and strong, were lazy and weak. His bat speed was slow and any contact he made wasn't solid. Disgusted with his performance and worried about his health, he stood under the shower for a long time afterward, hoping the hot water would soothe whatever was ailing him.

When he talked to Jenny after practice, he wasn't his usual jovial self with her. In fact, he could barely stay awake in the chair. Serena was shocked when she saw him after she came up from the locker room, but she tried not to show it. He and Jenny made small talk until it was time for Jenny to leave. They walked slowly to the car; Andy couldn't go any faster if he tried.

"Please, take care of yourself," Jenny pleaded. "I don't want to nag, but you need to see a doctor." They were at the car now.

"I know," he said softly, glancing at his sister. "I will. I don't feel so good."

Out of instinct, she leaned forward and kissed him on his cheek, touching it after she did so. "Tell me what's going on. I don't care how late it is."

"Your parents might care."

"I'll let them know ahead of time."

"Okay."

Jenny got into the car, not wanting to leave him. She waved to him before the car was put into gear and driven away.

"Come on," Serena said. "Let's get you home before you fall over."

"I couldn't agree with you more," he said meekly.

Serena drove home as quickly as possible, glancing from time to time at her brother. She didn't know what to think. All she knew was he was very sick and she was becoming very concerned.

Joe and Diane took one look at Andy when they came through the door and had the same thought. His kidney. By then, his color had taken on an ashen, yellowish hue and he was very weak. They put the food away quickly, grabbed their coats, and took him to the hospital. Joe called for assistance in his best cop's voice, and soon Andy was wheeled into the emergency room.

While Joe and Diane processed the paperwork, Andy was taken into the emergency room examination area immediately. They explained to the nurse that he only had ½ of a kidney and they suspected something was wrong with it. The information was then relayed to the staff taking care of him.

He was immediately put on oxygen and he felt better with the fresh air circulating through his nose. He had his vital statistics taken and an IV was started in his right arm when a pleasant looking man in his forties came into view.

"Hi there, Mr. Burleson," he greeted him. "I'm Dr. Torgeson and I'll be taking care of you for now. We've been told you're not feeling too hot, so we're going to check everything out, just to make sure we find out what's going on with you. Okay?" From the information given him, he already suspected renal problems, but he wanted to make sure.

"Okay," Andy said weakly. He was scared, but he was mostly exhausted and just wanted to sleep.

"Have you had any trouble sleeping, going to the bathroom, itching, or anything out of the ordinary lately?"

"I haven't slept well for the past week and I'm always tired. I've had trouble going, but I haven't had any itching. I've been tired on and off for the past few months."

"Okay," he noted. "Any pains anywhere?"

"No."

"Eating okay?"

"Yes."

'Are you having trouble breathing?"




For Love of a Brother Ch. 02



The summer went by slowly for Andy. Although his recovery was quick and he regained his strength rapidly, it was decided it was best for him to skip summer baseball and wait until spring to play again. He understood the decision, but it didn't mean he liked it. His arguments fell upon deaf ears from all sides concerned, so he dropped it. Serena and Jenny both knew how bad he wanted to play, but even they thought he should wait. He also wasn't allowed to work his summer job, which made his days seem even longer. Jenny was working six to eight hours a day at McDonald's, but they had their evenings and weekends free.

He had settled into a routine by this time, taking his medications at precise intervals and having his blood checked regularly. He was now getting his blood drawn only once per week, down from every other day when he was allowed to go home from the hospital. His chemistry levels continued to hold steady in the normal range as Dr. Venkata slowly lowered his dosage, being extremely careful not to lower them too quickly. Taking pills was not a big deal for Andy. In his mind, anything beat the way he felt before the transplant and he wasn't going to jeopardize rejecting the kidney by not taking his medications. Getting his blood drawn was no big deal, either. It was just another thing he had to do to stay healthy.

By mid-July, Serena had made a full recovery and was working four hour shifts as a cashier at the local grocery store. Except for the massive scar down her abdomen, no one could tell she was any different. She had been in touch with Sue Griffin, the Indiana University softball coach, several times during her recovery and Sue even visited for a Sunday afternoon, much to Serena's surprise. Serena's thoughts often turned to school and her first year in college. All of her paperwork had been submitted and her enrollment completed. She knew she wanted to major in business, but she had no specific field in mind. She was in no hurry with her decision for she had until her junior year to declare. Going to I.U. tread heavily on her mind, for she knew she would miss her family very much, even though they wouldn't be far apart. 

Being away from Andy would be the hardest thing to overcome. She knew that now. They had grown closer and closer since the transplant and sometimes she wished she had chosen a school that wasn't so far away. But, she knew she made the right choice and she didn't think she would be happy anywhere else, even Ohio State. Still, she knew it would be very hard for the entire family when it was time for her to leave and she wasn't looking forward to that.

Towards the end of July, Jenny celebrated her eighteenth birthday with a small gathering of family and friends. Andy wouldn't be eighteen until September. Andy had no idea what to get her, so he turned to Angie, her mom, for advice. She suggested numerous perfumes, bath oils, and jewelry items and Andy considered them all. He eventually settled upon a necklace, its chain thin and dainty with a gold heart pendant attached. When she opened it, she loved it immediately and had Andy fasten it around her neck.

"I'll never take it off," she said to him once they had a private moment. She kissed him and hugged him and wished they were totally alone. She wanted to make love to him right then and there, but she couldn't. She felt his hardness against her belly and sighed softly, knowing that if the right moment came, she would gladly take him inside her and accept everything he could give.

They had come close numerous times that summer up until then. It was very hard to keep their hands off each other during those times after they went to the swimming pool or the beach. Jenny was right when she said her bikini was skimpy. All she had to do was take a look at Andy's shorts to know that. The looks from the other guys told her that, too. But, all she cared about was what Andy thought, and he thought she looked awesome.

Occasionally, in private, she would let him slip his hand inside her bra and he would tease her nipples until she was hot, slick, panting, and thinking she couldn't resist too much longer before she would have to remove the rest of her clothes. Fortunately, sanity would return before they went further. Andy couldn't get enough of her breasts and loved the feel of them against his fingers. He thought he had never felt anything so soft in his life. It was only after they returned to their respective houses that they were able to relieve some of the sexual tension they had allowed to go from a simmer to a boil.

It was around this time when Jenny decided she needed to have a long talk with her mom. Her mom had always told her she could come to her with anything and Jenny decided it was time. It was after supper one hot, sticky night and Jenny asked Andy not to come over. Because he was puzzled, she explained her reasoning.

"You're going to ask your mom for what?" he asked, barely able to control his voice. "She'll go ballistic. Why don't you just announce it to the world that you want to go on the pill!"

"Calm down, Andy," Jenny hissed. "She won't be too mad as long as I'm open and up front with her."

"My God, she'll probably tell my parents!"

"I don't think she will."

"Geez Jenny, I don't know," he said, totally unconvinced.

"Listen," Jenny said, "I'm not going to make love to you unless I have some sort of protection besides condoms. They don't work." She thought back to her mom and dad. They had used a condom in high school and Jenny was conceived anyway. She did not want that to happen to her.

"Maybe we should forget about it," he said quietly. "Maybe we should just cool it for a while."

"We both know that won't happen. We both know how much we want this. I know how much I want it."

Once dishes were cleaned and put away, Jenny asked her mom to go on a walk with her. Angie raised an eyebrow, but said nothing as they headed out into the steamy evening. Jenny's arms were crossed as they walked for a few minutes.

As they crossed the first intersection, Angie broke the silence. "So, what's up?"

"I just wanted to talk."

"You haven't said anything."

"I know."

They continued for another block before Jenny spoke again. Looking at her mom as they kept in stride with each other, Jenny asked, "Do you ever regret getting pregnant with me when you did?"

Angie tried not to act too surprised at the question as she eyed her daughter. "I never regretted getting pregnant with you. We were getting married in a few months anyway when I found out. I do wish it had happened a little further down the road after we were married. Why do you ask?"

Jenny shrugged her shoulders and looked down at the pavement. Thoughts of her daughter being pregnant ran through her mind. She and Brad had suspected that Jenny and Andy were having sex, but they never confronted them. They came to a small park and walked amongst the trees before sitting down at a bench. 

Jenny spoke again. "You don't have to answer this if you don't want to."

"Okay."

"How many times did you and dad have sex before you got pregnant?"

Angie sat back, sighed, and thought carefully about her answer. Here it was, she thought, Jenny's pregnant. That's just great! She calmed herself down and thought about the question again. 

"It was never just sex," she replied quietly, "but to answer your question, I think it was about a dozen times or so." It was a lot more than that, but she wasn't going to tell her everything!

"Oh," Jenny said, deep in thought.

Unable to restrain herself any longer, Angie asked, "Are you pregnant?" 

Jenny shook her head. "No."

"Are you sure?"

"Mom, we haven't done anything to get me pregnant."

"Oh." Angie slumped in her seat, no knowing what else to say. A minute or two went by. "Is he pressuring you?"

"No, not at all, but I think it will happen. We're trying really hard not to, but..."

"But what?" Angie asked.

"It's getting harder and harder to resist."

"I see." Angie's mind was in a whirl. What was this really about? What did she want?

"I don't know," Jenny sighed. "Did you feel like this?"

"Yes," she replied. Angie couldn't deny that. She remembered. They stared off into space as a few walkers passed by. "So, what do you want from me?" she asked, looking at Jenny directly. "I certainly don't want you to go to bed with Andy, but I can't forbid you from seeing him. I can see that you love him and he loves you, but I don't want you to make the same mistake we made. You two have so much to look forward to with high school and college. Your father and I didn't have plans to go to college, so it didn't matter in that regard."

Jenny looked down at the ground for a second before eyeing her mom once more. "I think what I'm asking is, would it be alright with you if I went on the pill?"

"The pill? Jenny, if I let you go on the pill, it would be as if I was giving you permission to go to bed with him. Can't you two wait and think about this?"

"Mom, we would have done it many times already if we hadn't been thinking about it. We are trying so hard not to."

"Don't you think it would be better if you two held out as long as possible before you decide about this?"

"Were you and dad able to hold out?"

Angie sighed. "No," she admitted, thinking back their courtship. They had been dating only a month before they began to have a sexual relationship and it was a mutual decision. Angie remembered it being wonderful, too, and she knew what her daughter was going through. She only wished it wasn't happening all over again.

"I just don't think we'll be able to resist too much longer. We love each other so much, mom. I know he's the one for me. I'm certain of it. I would never even think about making love to him unless I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him."

Angie looked at her daughter and produced a small smile. Her Jenny had never been one to act impetuously. Even when she was flighty and boy-crazy, she never acted impulsively and without thought. She believed her when she said they hadn't done anything, but she also believed they would eventually get to that point. She didn't want to give her a license to screw like a bunny anytime the moment hit her, but she sure didn't want to be a grandmother at thirty-seven.

Angie knew Jenny was truly in love with Andy and knew she meant to marry him. What she didn't know was Andy's intentions and she was going to find that out before she gave consent to anything.

"I know you love him and I'm certain he loves you, too," Angie began. "It wasn't that long ago when your dad and I dated. I know what you're feeling because I went through it, too." She took Jenny's hand. "I don't want you to do this, but I'm not naive enough to think it won't happen. I will let you go on the pill on one condition."

"What's that?" Jenny hoped it didn't mean telling her dad. She wouldn't have a boyfriend to worry about after her dad got through with him. Then, he'd lock her in her room until she was thirty!

"I want to talk to Andy about this."

Jenny was relieved. "Okay," she said. "What about dad?"

"I'll take care of him," Angie said, "but he'll have to know eventually."

"Why does he have to know?"

"Because no matter how good a job you do with hiding them, Melissa will snoop and find them. You know that and I know that. It's better if he's told before he hears it from her."

"But mom," Jenny cried, "he'll kill him!"

"No, he won't, Jenny. I'll talk to him. He has to be told."

And so, it came to pass a week or two later. Angie had a long talk with Andy one Saturday afternoon when Brad and Melissa were away. Although he was extremely nervous about the meeting, he relaxed soon after he realized Angie wasn't going to skin him. She was frank and honest with him, asking him pointed questions and making sure he understood his responsibilities should Jenny become pregnant. She reiterated to him that she was not giving them permission to have sex, but understood the circumstances. They talked for well over an hour before Angie was satisfied.

As they finished, Angie hugged him, thinking he was very mature for his age. She almost thought of him as a son at that point and was certain he would be her son eventually.

Jenny saw her gynecologist and with her mother's signature, she was given her first cycle of birth control pills. Now came the tough part, telling her father.

Angie took him on a walk, basically using the same route she and Jenny had used just a few weeks prior. She brought up the subject gingerly, and slowly told him the truth. He didn't erupt as she had feared, but merely sighed deeply. They sat down under a tall, beautiful maple and watched squirrels frolicking around the trunks of the other trees that were nearby.

"We thought they were screwing around anyway, didn't we?" he said gruffly.

"Yes, we did."

"She says they're not?"

"That's what she said and I believe her."

"I don't know," he sighed. "The thought of them....him....damn." He shook his head.

"Try to remember what it was like with us. Just for a minute, just remember all those times at your brother's apartment after school," Angie said.

"I couldn't wait to get inside your pants," he laughed. He remembered how breathtakingly gorgeous she was when she was naked. And she looked even better now. He still couldn't wait to get into her pants.

"And I couldn't wait to have you inside me." She touched his arm. "At least she came to us and was honest about it."

"That's true, but I still don't like it."

"Do you think I do? But, I would rather see her on the pill than coming to us with a bun in the oven."

"We couldn't stop them if we wanted to," he admitted. "I think they're more in love than we were."

"I don't think so," she laughed, "but they're close."

Brad stood up and reached back for his child bride, gently pulling her up to him. "I think I need to have a talk with that daughter of mine."

With that, they walked arm in arm back to their house.

* * * * *

As the end of August neared, thoughts of school began to trickle through their heads. They still hadn't made love, but the urgency wasn't quite as strong as it had been. Perhaps it was because Jenny was on the pill and they knew they could maybe just let the moment happen instead of plan for it. Brad had his talk with Jenny, but never talked to Andy. He simply didn't trust himself not to say the wrong thing and lose his temper. He was always cordial to him, but it was a slightly strained atmosphere whenever Andy and Brad were together.

The swimming pools and lakes were close to closing down for the summer when Jenny and Andy went to the beach for one last time on the last Saturday in August. It was a hot, steamy day when even a dip in a pool or lake wasn't quite as refreshing as one would hope. Nonetheless, they played and swam amongst the other people who were there, enjoying the water and being together in the warm sunshine. 

They had brought along a picnic basket of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips, and cokes. Always in a semi-aroused state whenever she was in her bikini, his eyes opened wide when he caught a glimpse of her nipple as she relaxed next to him, her hand supporting her arm.

"Nice view," he winked at her, pointing to her exposed nipple.

Jenny looked down, smiled, but made no move to conceal it, noting there were no other people around them. She didn't mind him seeing it and liked the expression on his face. Noticing the growing bulge tenting out of his swim trunks, she looked around to see if anyone was watching. No one was, so she quickly reached over and grabbed his penis and gave it a playful tug. They had sometimes did some touching below the waist, but always with clothes on. Jenny remembered almost having an orgasm once as he was hitting a good spot, but Melissa interrupted by coming down the stairs.

"Something's getting excited," she giggled. Although she had never actually seen it, she guessed it to be a pretty good size.

"Hey," he jumped, very surprised. He looked around, but saw no one watching, either. "You better be careful or I might have an accident."

"I wouldn't mind seeing that," she winked. She reached over and tugged on it again.

"Hey, come on Jenny, not here," he said. He loved her playfulness, but he didn't want them getting in trouble.

Jenny laughed and laid on her back, her stomach flat and her nipples pushing through the wet, blue bikini bra. She had wonderful nipples, as Andy had found out, nipples that were the size of a small eraser and quickly became firm from his touch. She saw him staring at her and smiled. He moved over her and began to kiss her lightly, starting at her nose and ending at her lips. She loved his soft kisses as the tingles began to invade her body. His kisses always drove her crazy! Her body started to respond as she turned to him, her one shoulder off the blanket as she reached around him with her free arm.

"We need to find someplace a bit more secluded," she whispered breathlessly as they came up for air. Andy nodded and they began to pack for their return trip.

When they got back to Andy's house, no one was home. There was a note on the fridge saying they had gone out shopping for luggage and school stuff for Serena. She was moving into her dorm the next day and the whole family was going to help. The note said they would be home around four. Andy checked his watch and it was about two-thirty. They put the food away and headed upstairs to his room. They knew they didn't have time to make love, they didn't want to rush that, but they could make out or get a little more daring if they chose.

They stood by his bed for a few seconds before they sat down and began kissing. Jenny was wearing a t-shirt and thin, cotton shorts over her suit while Andy still had his suit on with a tank top. Laying side by side, their hands roamed freely without any inhibitions or fears of being caught. Andy's hands were soon underneath the shirt and gently squeezing her left breast through her bra. She sighed contented as she continued to kiss him, her thighs rubbing together slowly. Soon, his hand moved aside the cloth and his fingers found her already hardened nipple. Jenny squirmed at his touch as her breaths came quicker. She reached down and began to pull on his penis through the cloth of his suit.

This continued for several minutes before she let go and moved her hand to his waistband. "I want to touch it," she said quietly. Wordlessly, Andy eased away from her and untied the drawstring, pulling the waistband loose from his body. Jenny gently put her hand back under and found what she was looking for. Her hand enclosed around the head of his penis and Andy jumped slightly from her foreign touch.

"I didn't hurt you, did I?" she asked.

"No," he managed to say. Her hand felt fantastic as she moved it about the head. 

She could feel the slippery juices at the tip and knew instantly he was getting very excited. With her free hand, she unbuttoned her own shorts and opened them. She took his hand and placed it near the edge of the bikini bottom.

"Go ahead," she said.

"Are you sure?"

"Andy, if we had the time, I'd be totally naked by now. Please touch me," she pleaded. Reassuringly, she pressed his hand underneath the thin cloth as she continued to play with him.

He moved his hand forward and soon found the beginnings of her pubic hair, fine and soft to his touch, not coarse and bristly like his own. Jenny gave out an audible sigh as a shiver escaped her. She smiled dreamily and Andy took that as a good sign as he pushed further down. Tremors of pleasure went through her when his fingers touched her hooded clitoris. "Right there," she gasped, "rub there." She held his hand to that spot as he started to move his fingers over it. He could feel her wetness as she spread her legs to allow him easier access.




For Love of a Brother Ch. 02



It was but seconds later when he couldn't hold back any longer. Jenny could feel it pulsing before it began to gush its warm, sticky fluid. Andy groaned loudly as his sperm soaked Jenny's hand and the inside of his swim trunks. When he finished, she withdrew her hand and was amazed. It was actually dripping off her hand and onto the bed. Tentatively, she licked one of her fingers. The taste wasn't too bad, not like some of her girlfriends had described it.

Andy was breathing heavily and looking at her as he started to play with her again. Jenny wiped the rest off on his blanket and began to concentrate on what he was doing to her. She wriggled her shorts and bikini bottoms to her ankles and showed herself to him for the first time. At first, he was mesmerized by the sight. Yes, he had seen pictures of naked women before, but this was something to behold. Her blond pubic hair was very light in color, thin and wispy, and very soft to the touch. Her inner thighs were toned like the rest of her legs, but her skin was silky soft. He looked at the tender folds of skin that lined both sides of her vagina and then to the point where her protruding clitoris lay. His penis, which had just covered Jenny's hand with sperm, was twitching and starting to grow again. Jenny laid back and opened her thighs for him as he continued rubbing her. It wasn't long before her whole body began to tremble as the pressure kept building up towards its release.

Suddenly, Jenny pitched forward and let out a scream as the first wave went through her. It hit her many times stronger than when she ever pleasured herself. Each wave wracked her body like never before as her thighs clamped around Andy's hand as he looked on in amazement. He had never seen anything like it and wondered how much was pleasure and how much was pain. Jenny's face was contorted and turning red from the exertion. After about ten seconds, the initial hard spasms subsided and were replaced by smaller, gentler waves.

She relaxed her thighs and Andy pulled his hand away, still staring at her naked beauty. Now he knew how the power of sex could take over a man. He wanted nothing more than to see her naked all of the time from that point on, and he couldn't wait to see what it would feel like to have his penis in between her sweet folds of skin. Jenny was gently rubbing herself, basking in the afterglow of her orgasm. It was, by far, the strongest one she had ever had and she knew it was because he had done it for her.

"You are so pretty," he said as he looked at her from head to toe.

Jenny smiled at the compliment and reached for his waistband. "I want to see what this thing looks like." Andy pulled down his trunks until his now hard penis bobbed over the waistband. Jenny gulped when she saw it. It wasn't real long, maybe seven inches, but it was thick in circumference. Whenever they did make love, she thought, it was definitely going to be a tight fit. The flesh between her legs twitched at the thought of it.

They kissed for a few minutes before they cleaned up and got dressed again. They didn't want to push their luck. Andy switched into jeans and a t-shirt before they left. Jenny still felt tingles between her thighs as they went downstairs and outside to his car when he took her home. They talked little, but held hands throughout the short drive. The understanding was quite evident between them although it was unspoken. The bond they had built over their courtship was getting stronger and it was only a matter of time before they would be bonded in the flesh as well.

The next day, Serena was sad, nervous, and excited as they drove to Bloomington. She would be rooming with someone whom the athletic department picked for her. All female students on athletic scholarships roomed in the same dormitory called Anderson Hall. Serena hoped she'd like her, whoever she may be.

Serena glanced over at her brother and he seemed to be in a pretty good mood as he poured over a large book on his lap. He had been unusually mischievous the previous evening, playing jokes on her and teasing her unmercifully. She appreciated his efforts to lighten her mood, but she was too deep in her own thoughts to joke back with him. This didn't stop him, of course, as he continued to gently prod her from time to time. They talked into the early morning after their parents had gone to bed. He told her about him and Jenny fooling around in his bedroom and she was surprised, not by the fact of the matter, but because he was usually pretty reticent to discuss his love life with her. Like Jenny's parents, Serena already thought incorrectly that they were having sex. How could she know any different up until then? Sex was one of the few subjects he never discussed with her. She didn't pass judgment, but merely cautioned him and hoped they were being careful enough to avoid pregnancy. 

After he had gone to bed, she sat and thought about her brother's relationship with Jenny. Although she wished him all the happiness in the world, she couldn't help but feel a little jealous. She hadn't dated anyone in almost a year and it was beginning to bug her. She thought she was attractive enough. She had many male friends, just no steady boyfriend. It puzzled most of her close friends, too. Many people would say she was quite pretty, seeing her dark brown eyes and her sharp facial features. She was a bit heavier and more muscular than girls her height, but she looked trim, cut a sexy figure in a bathing suit, and was in great shape. Going to college would be a whole new experience for her in all regards, including dating, and maybe she would find someone special like her brother did.

Her parents seemed unusually quiet and to themselves that morning. Diane tried to start a few conversations with Joe, but they died quickly soon after they were started. Joe had nothing to say and nodded from time to time when his wife spoke, but he was more comfortable keeping his eyes on the road than indulging in conversation.

By midday, they reached the university and her dorm. They were parked a block away, but they began to unpack Serena's belongings and helped her move in. The room wasn't too bad in size. It was big enough for two twin beds, two desks with chairs, two book cases, good closet space for both, and a full bath with a shower.

Serena met her roommate, a tall vivacious redhead named Christy Lothian who was on the volleyball team. She greeted Serena warmly and promised to show her around once she settled. Christy had gotten in earlier that morning and had all of her things put away. She was from Gary, Indiana. Her brother had graduated from Indiana and her sister was a senior, so she knew the campus very well and all of the good places to hang out. Serena liked her immediately and it looked as if they were off to a good start.

Orientation for the students and their parents would not be until the next day. When it got to be two o'clock, Diane, Joe, and Andy left Serena to go to their motel to get checked in, leaving Serena with Christy, who had returned.

"Are you hungry?" Christy asked after everyone had left.

""Starving," she replied.

"You got your meal ticket, didn't you? It should have been with all of your orientation stuff."

"Yeah, I got it."

"Well, grab it and I'll show you the cafeteria."

They went to the cafeteria, found an unoccupied table and sat down to eat their lunch. While they ate, they got to know each other a little bit. Christy had been second team all-Indiana in volleyball her senior year and was majoring in pe-law.

"I'll be the tallest female attorney in the state!" she laughed. When Serena rattled off her awards, Christy was amazed. "Why did you come to Indiana? You could have gone to Texas, UCLA, Oklahoma, or any other great softball school. Why here?"

"I just wanted to be close to my family," Serena explained.

"That was your brother, right?" she asked.

"Yes," Serena nodded.

"He's cute. Is he taken?"

Serena laughed at the question. "Very much so."

"Why do you laugh about it?"

"Let's just say that if they weren't still in high school, they'd probably be married by now."

"Wow!" Christy exclaimed. "That's pretty serious."

They chatted about different things, but mostly about sports, music, and boys. Serena found out very quickly that Christy was slightly boy crazy and wasn't afraid to admit it. 

"It's so hard to find someone who can get past the fact I'm taller than he is," she lamented.

"How tall are you?" Serena asked.

"Six foot three."

"Yeah, that's pretty tall."

"It seems the only ones who ever showed any interest in dating me were one or two of the basketball players. That narrowed down the field, if you know what I mean."

Serena looked at her roommate for a second or two. Christy certainly wasn't a beauty, but she wasn't bad looking, either. She had very pleasant features and Serena thought she wouldn't have trouble finding dates. "It looks like we'll have to help each other find the right guy," Serena commented.

"Sounds great to me. I'll need all the help I can get," she laughed.

After they finished, they went back to their room where Christy had Serena show her class schedule to her. For the next hour or so, they toured the campus, bookstore, and the buildings where Serena would have her classes. They checked out the laundry in the dorm, plus the game room and all of the other things. By the end of the tour, Serena was confident she would find her way around without any trouble.

By the end of the day, Serena was exhausted and wanted to do nothing but crawl into bed and sleep, but being in a strange bed with a new roommate made that difficult. However, sleep eventually did overcome her and she slept fitfully for her first night in college.

* * * * *

For the first few weeks after Serena was in school, the whole Burleson household had problems adjusting. Even though Andy had Jenny to keep him occupied, he missed Serena a lot. He never realized how much time they spent together, especially at night before they went to bed. Several times, he'd forget and wander into her empty room to talk about something that happened that day, only to realize his mistake. He wrote her a few letters to help him think she was near, mostly humorous ones to mask his pain. Sometimes, he would simply sit in her room for a few minutes and look at all of her awards and trophies and wish she was there.

For her part, Serena was too busy during the day to think about how much she missed her family. That usually happened at night when things had calmed down and her studies were completed. Although she was taking only fifteen credit hours that semester, it was more than enough to challenge her. She thought about her parents and Andy quite a bit, and like Andy, she missed their talks, too.

Christy was turning out to be a pretty good roommate and friend. They were both on the same page when it came to studying; both thought of themselves as students first and athletes second and they took their studying very seriously.

One unusually warm night, Christy came into the room to find Serena in a crop top and shorts and it was the first time she had seen the scar.

"What in the world happened to you?" she asked, pointing to Serena's abdomen.

"Oh, I lost a kidney," Serena said, smiling and thinking of Andy.

"That must have been awful. What happened, if you don't mind me asking?"

Serena proceeded to tell her about Andy's illness and the subsequent transplant.

When she finished, Christy sat back and whistled, "Girl, you are something else. He's lucky to have you for a sister."

"I think so," Serena laughed.

"Weren't you scared?"

"Terrified."

"Then why did you do it?"

"I couldn't stand seeing him sick like he was," Serena explained. "My parents would have gladly given him one of theirs, but I was the best match and it was a pretty easy decision for me."

"Wow. Like I said, you are something else."

They had both settled into a routine by then and rarely did they get on each others nerves or disturb the other when study time was needed. Serena found that sometimes the dorm was too noisy for her to concentrate, so she would head over to the medical library where church mice were known to be kicked out for disturbing the med students.

One such night before an accounting exam, Serena lost track of the time as she was trying to make a balance sheet come out right. She had been working on it for almost an hour and she was frustrated at her inability to figure out why it was wrong.

"Ma'am?" a quiet voice said to her left.

Irritated and her concentration broken by the intrusion, Serena hissed in the general direction of the voice without bothering to look, "Yes?"

"The library closed a few minutes ago. Didn't you hear the announcement?"

Serena glanced at her watch and was surprised to see it was after two o'clock in the morning. She had been studying so hard that she indeed did not hear the announcement. "I'm sorry," she said, looking at the student who belonged to the voice. "I guess I didn't hear it." She turned off her calculator and began to gather her books and notebooks.

"That's okay," he said. "I just thought I'd let you know before we got locked in." He had a drab green back pack slung over his shoulder.

Serena glanced his way as she finished packing. He was still standing nearby waiting for her. He was tall and thin with curly black hair and wire rimmed glasses. He wasn't much to look at, Serena thought, but he seemed nice enough. She did notice he had a nice smile, though.

"Do you study here often?" he asked as they left the building and into the steamy Indiana morning.

"Only when the dorm's too loud," she replied.

"Which one?"

"Anderson."

"Oh, the jock dorm," he mused, as if it were some private joke that only he was privy to.

"Is there something funny about that?" she asked, a bit irritated as being referred to as a "jock".

"No, not at all," he said quickly. "I just didn't think of you as being an athlete. We never see them in the medical library."

They walked a few more seconds before Serena asked, "Where's your dorm?"

"McCauley."

"Isn't that over there?" she asked pointing behind her.

"Yes, it is," he replied. "I thought I'd walk you back and make sure you got there okay. It's pretty late," he added.

"I'll be okay. I don't anyone protecting me." She looked at his thin frame and didn't think he could defend himself against her, let alone anyone else.

"But, I know karate, judo, and a few other Japanese words," he replied, grinning. 

As tired as she was, Serena smiled at his joke. He liked her smile. The campus was eerily quiet that morning. She had never been up that late studying before and it was a bit weird for her. Once she thought about it, she was glad to have some company.

Within a few minutes, they reached the entrance to Anderson Hall. "Thanks for walking with me," she said before heading to the door.

"Maybe I'll see you in the library again sometime," he said quietly.

"I'm sure you will." She hesitated for a moment. "What's your name," she asked, "or should I just say 'hey you' next time?"

The thin student smiled and said, "Sergei Federinkov."

* * * * *

They saw each other a few other times in the library in the next couple of weeks, but they studied separately. If he had the chance, he made it a point to walk her to her dorm, no matter if it was early or late. If she finished before him, she wandered over to see if he was ready to leave and would wait for him if he was almost through. Serena learned he was a junior, a pre-med major, and he did indeed know karate and judo. In fact, he showed he some pictures of himself during various tournaments in which he participated. His body reminded her of a tall Bruce Lee, very lean, but muscular.

Sergei hailed from Springfield, Illinois and planned to return there upon his completion of medical school and his residency program. His grandfather had been an Imperial Guard in Czar Nicholas II of Russia's army before Lenin and the Bolsheviks took over. He fled the country before the Czar's murder and settled in Chicago.

Sergei liked Serena from the start and had seen her once or twice before their first encounter. It was then when he decided to drum up his courage and approach her. Serena didn't go to the medical library every night, but it became much more frequent than before. Christy wondered about her new study habit, but didn't say anything. She just figured Serena was having troubles studying in their room. Serena had no romantic feelings towards Sergei, but she enjoyed his company as a friend. In a letter to Andy, she told him about their friendship in a general way and Andy didn't read anything into it. He was simply glad she found some male companionship.

During the last weekend in September, Serena came home for the first time since school had started. Although it was a short stay, it was good to have her home. It felt a bit strange to her to sleep in her own room and bed again, but she adjusted quickly. She and her parents caught up on everything they hadn't discussed in their letters, including Sergei, and of course, Serena and Andy stayed up late every night talking.

Serena was relieved to hear that Andy and Jenny had not had any more interludes since before she left for school. She was scared Jenny would become pregnant and didn't want that to happen to either of them. Andy assured her they would be very careful and that Jenny was on birth control, but she still worried.

Andy asked about Sergei, but Serena offered no more than what she had written previously. She described him in more detail, but insisted they were merely friends and she wanted to leave it that way for the time being. He hadn't asked her out for a date or even to meet for lunch, so she figured the feeling was mutual on his side. As much as she wanted a real boyfriend, Sergei filled a void in her personal life and she was happy with that.

Because she was in school, she missed his birthday, which was on the twenty-first of the month. So, while she was in town, they had a small party for him with just family and a few friends, including Jenny. Serena gave him an Indiana University baseball tee shirt and ball cap, which he loved.

His parents gave him an expensive pen and pencil set plus one hundred dollars in cash, for which he was very grateful. Jenny gave him a Cleveland Indians tee shirt and a silver necklace with an Indians pendant attached. He liked that very much as well and gave her a huge hug as a thank you.

After everyone had left, Andy took Jenny home to a dark house. It was late and everyone was in bed. They sat in her driveway for a while, talking and kissing.

"You are my best birthday present," he said as he stared at her.

"Oh really?" she asked coyly.

"You know that."

"Show me, then."

Andy laughed and began kissing her again. A few minutes later, they came up for air and decided to call it a night. Andy always hated to leave after spending time with her, but she had to work the next day and needed to get to bed. They kissed again at her door before they said their final good night.

* * * * *

The changing of the season saddened Jenny as she looked out her window that crisp October morning. She was never a cold weather person, preferring the warmth of summer to the coolness that invaded the Ohio country every fall. While she did appreciate the turning of the leaves, she wished she lived in California or Florida or someplace where it was warm all of the time. But then, she thought she wouldn't appreciate the spring and summer as much as she did when they arrived.

She sighed and thought about the previous evening with Andy. They had come close to making love, but time curtailed any thought of getting naked. Wild thoughts of pretending to go out on a date, and instead, renting a room went through her mind. But, as she thought about it more rationally, she dismissed it. They had a wonderful evening in her basement listening to the stereo and fooling around a bit. Her parents and Melissa had gone out for a short time, but they didn't seize the opportunity to make love. However, his hands and fingers brought her to a very satisfying climax.




For Love of a Brother Ch. 02



When he left, she couldn't help but toy and play with herself while in bed. She even thrust two fingers inside herself, which she rarely did. She imagined her fingers being his penis and that sent her over the edge as wave after wave went through her. She had to bite her lip to keep from yelling. Jenny had always been a sensual girl before she and Andy began dating, never afraid to masturbate in bed or in the shower, but since they started to become intimate, she wanted and needed his special touch more and more. When she couldn't have it, her own hand had to take its place.

Jenny wished they could find a few hours when they knew for sure they wouldn't be caught or interrupted. She wanted their first time to be special and without any fears or thoughts of anyone else. She didn't want to have to rush it, but she wanted to take it slowly and let everything flow naturally. Jenny wanted to love him and be loved in return. She never tired of being around Andy and her heart leapt whenever she saw in school or at one of their houses. Their dates were never fancy or out of the ordinary, mostly just going to the movies or the mall or hanging out at one or the other's house. Andy had a weight set in his basement and Dr. Vekata had given him permission to begin weight training as long as he didn't strain his abdominal area during his workouts. Jenny trained with him at times and enjoyed the exertion. She could feel herself getting stronger and more toned and was beginning to like the way she was looking.

A few weeks later, Diane approached Andy one afternoon before supper. He was in his room studying for an English test and almost didn't hear her come in.

"Andy?" she said after she knocked. Andy turned quickly to his right and saw her.

"Yeah, mom. What's up?"

She came in and sat down on his bed. "You know your father and I are celebrating our twentieth anniversary this week."

"Yeah, I know," he answered. He had gotten them a gift certificate at their favorite restaurant.

"Well, we were thinking about going away this weekend, leaving Friday and coming back on Sunday."

"Okay." Them going away for a day or two was nothing new. They had been doing it once or twice a year for the past few years.

"We kind of hesitated doing this because you would be by yourself for a few days." No, I won't, he thought to himself.

"It's all right. I don't mind," he said.

"You've been doing so well since the transplant. That's why we were thinking about it."

"I'll be fine. You won't have to worry. I'll be hanging out with Jenny most of the time, anyway. Knock yourself out and have a great time," he smiled. Hopefully, we'll both be doing the same thing, he said to himself.

Diane smiled back. "Good, I'll have your dad make the reservations. It'll be so nice to get away for a few days," she said wistfully. She stood up and began to walk to the door. "You're sure you'll be okay by yourself?" she asked as she turned back to him.

"I'll be fine," he assured her.

"Okay," she said and then left the room.

Andy didn't know what to think. He wanted to tell Jenny right away, but thought better of it. He wanted to wait until he knew for sure they were going to do it. The one thing he didn't want to happen was to tell her they were leaving, then having them change their mind and not go anywhere. Heck, he might even wait until they were out the door before telling her. What a surprise that would be for her.

The thought of being totally naked with her and actually making love to her excited him in more ways than one. He had not seen her totally unclothed from head to toe before, only parts from time to time. Andy hoped she wasn't going to be on her period in the next few days. That would really stink. She never discussed that part of her life with him. Andy suspected she felt uncomfortable talking about such things with him.

He pushed aside his homework for the time being and thought about the possibilities that lay ahead. Friday night would probably be the best time, he thought. She would have to work Saturday for eight hours and Sunday for four more. He could take her out to dinner and then go back to his house, or they could skip dinner altogether and go straight to the fun. Andy smiled to himself as he thought about Jenny again. He had always heard and read that girls were usually reluctant when it came to sex and losing their virginity. He certainly couldn't say that about Jenny. She had been wanting to go to bed with him for quite some time now and was very disappointed they hadn't. Andy found it odd, but he definitely didn't argue about it. Of course he wanted to go to bed with her. What guy wouldn't? But with him, it went much deeper than that and he knew it. He was truly in love with her and wouldn't make love to her otherwise.

Would their relationship change if they did? He didn't know, but if it did, he felt it would be for the better, that their love would be even deeper than it already was. That, he wholeheartedly believed to be true. With each step they took, things had only gotten better and he saw no reason for this to counteract it. To them, it was just a natural progression in their relationship and they knew it was the right thing to do.

* * * * *

"Well, he finally did it," Serena said to Christy as she came into the dorm room after an evening at the library.

"Did what?"

"Sergei asked me out."

"You're kidding." Christy had seen him once or twice and had not been impressed.

"Yeah. He asked me to go to the game with him Saturday." They were going to go to the box office the next and get tickets together since it wasn't a sellout. Indiana football wasn't exactly the hottest ticket in town.

"Who're they playing?"

"Northwestern, I think."

"Figures."

"What are you talking about?"

"He could at least have asked you to go to the Ohio State game or the Michigan game."

"Come on, Christy. I know you don't like him, but he can't ask me out according to their schedule." Serena was always puzzled as to why Christy didn't like him.

"I never said I didn't like him," Christy replied. "I just think as pretty as you are, you could find someone a lot better looking than him."

"Maybe I could, but I like him. He reminds me of my brother a little bit."

"Your brother's a lot better looking than Sergei."

"I didn't mean his looks," Serena replied. "I meant his personality. He's real quiet, reserved, and soft spoken like Andy. I like that in a guy. Looks aren't everything. They've never been a big deal to me and they never will."

"Well, he's your date. I, on the other hand, am waiting for you to find me my Prince Charming, the one who will sweep off my feet."

"You didn't find Sergei for me. Why should I help you? Besides, I haven't found anyone desperate enough yet." Serena smiled sweetly.

"Bitch!" Christy laughed. "See if I help you again." 

Serena laughed along with her. She went to her desk and put her books away. Sitting down at her desk, she wrote a letter to Andy and one to her parents relating the week she was having and her upcoming date. In her parents letter, she wrote in generalities, but with Andy's, she went into more detail. She was starting to like Sergei more and more. Granted, they had only known each other by walking together short distances from the library to her dorm, but like she said to Christy, she liked his personality and demeanor. Besides, she could get to know him better by going to the game with him.

After an hour of writing, Serena sighed and put everything away. Christy had already gone to bed and was sound asleep. When she was finished using the bathroom and brushing her teeth, she settled under the covers. A strong wind was blowing outside their window that evening as a storm was on its way. Serena didn't care for storms much and they usually meant a restless night of sleep for her, but she was tired and she hoped she would be dead to the world before it hit. Rolling onto her stomach, she was soon asleep as the winds howled all around.

As Friday arrived, Jenny was restless as she waited for Andy to pick her up. She always looked forward to dates with Andy, no matter what they did or where they went. It could be just going for a drive or taking a walk. She didn't care. Being with him was all that mattered. As she waited for him to pick her up, she wondered what he had in mind. She really wasn't in the mood for a movie and they weren't going to McKinley's football game, so she had no idea what he wanted to do. Sometimes, he would just ask her and she would make the decision and that was okay with her as well.

When he did show up, he had a mischievous grin on his face. He talked briefly with Jenny's parents and her sister before they left. As he let her in the car, she asked, "What are we doing tonight?"

"I'll tell you in a minute," he said as he shut her door.

When they were out of the driveway and driving away from her house, he said to her, "I've got a surprise."

"What is it?" she asked. Jenny liked surprises and Andy was sure she'd love this one.

"What would you say if I told you my parents are gone for the weekend and we have the house to ourselves?"

Jenny blinked and looked at him as if she didn't hear him correctly. "You're kidding," she said.

"Nope," he replied. "Their anniversary is tomorrow and they wanted some time alone with each other. They went to Cleveland and booked a room at the Holiday Inn. They'll be gone until Sunday."

"Oh my God," Jenny said softly, still not totally believing him. It was finally going to happen for them. She trembled at the thought.

"So, where do you want to go?" he grinned.

"Your house, and quickly," she replied.

They arrived at his house within a few minutes and they went inside and up to his room. He closed the drapes in his room and turned on his light. They stood facing each other, both a bit nervous at what was about to transpire. Jenny made the first move as she went to him and began to kiss him, holding his face in her hands as she did so. Jenny could feel his hardness pressed against her. She let one hand fall from his face and glide down to rub it against him through his jeans. A slight groan escaped his lips as her kisses and the anticipation of seeing her naked was almost unbearable.

They broke their kiss and undressed quickly. She now stood in front of him, her nipples aroused and pushed out. Seeing her completely naked for the first time took his breath away as he stared at her in fascination. In her eyes, he looked great, too. The workouts he was doing was paying off and she could start to see definition in his muscle tone. Of course, she saw his thick, erect penis bobbing in front of his groin and had to resist licking her lips.

"You're absolutely gorgeous," he said softly as his gaze traveled up and down her body.

Jenny blushed and giggled. "I'm a little nervous about this," she said. She went to him and pressed her hand to his hardness, feeling the wetness surrounding its tip. "But, we might as well get started," she added with a laugh.

Andy's hand traveled down the side of her hip to the front as he touched the wispy blond pubic hairs which covered her sex. She opened her legs slightly as he felt between the folds of skin. She was slick and wet and more than ready to begin. Jenny felt like her body was on fire, feeling every little movement Andy made with his hand and fingers as she shuddered and trembled from his touch.

Her hand fell and she pushed away from him gently. Jenny looked at Andy and smiled sweetly. "I want you," she said softly without batting an eye. "I want you now more than anything." She took his hand and led him to the bed.  

Jenny laid down first on her back and opened her legs for him. Andy sat on his knees and stared at her, unable to move or speak. This wonderful girl loved and trusted him enough to offer herself to him without reservation. He would never forget the sight of her open like that. No matter how many times they made love, he knew this time would always be the most memorable and the most special. 

Not wanting to wait any longer, Jenny reached for him and pulled him to her. With his hands at each side of her head, he positioned himself between her legs. Andy bent forward and kissed her sweetly to let her know he was ready. She reached between his legs and gently guided him forward until his tip was at her entrance.

"Take it slow," she said, her voice a bit raspy. Andy nodded, his breathing was getting faster, too.

He began to push as her hand was still wrapped around it. Finally, she let go as the tip made it past her entrance. "Ease off," she said quickly, trying to get used to his size. Andy eased back a little and Jenny nodded for him to begin again. Andy began again as sweat beads began to form on his forehead. He didn't know how long he would last since it was their first time. He had masturbated twice before he picked her up in hopes of taking the edge off, so to speak, but he wasn't sure if even that was going to help him now. Taking it easy and going slowly, he let her get used to him. A seconds later, Jenny let out a gasp as he pushed almost totally into her. She stiffened momentarily before realizing they were connected.

"Oh my God, Andy, you're in," she exclaimed. Andy held still and didn't move. Jenny wrapped her arms around him and hugged him. "I can't believe it! Oh my God!" She began to cry from the emotion of it. Andy didn't know what to do. Part of him wanted to start, but yet, he didn't know what Jenny wanted. Being inside her felt nothing like he imagined it would.. She was warm, soft, and moist and he could feel the pressure of her vaginal walls surrounding him. It was a very tight fit and he knew he wouldn't last too long. It felt absolutely wonderful.

After she got over the initial shock and pain of him being inside, Jenny tried to concentrate on relaxing herself enough to enjoy it. "I love you so much," she whispered in his ear before releasing him. Andy took this as a sign for him to start. Still afraid of hurting her, he began very slowly with his thrusts. Although it hurt at first, Jenny felt her body loosen and begin to respond to his virginal lovemaking. Within seconds, she could feel small tremors began to invade her body as his thrusts became a little faster and more urgent.

Their eyes met at this point and Andy stopped. The enormity of the moment hit them both and neither could speak. Andy bent down and kissed her again, this time deep and loving. Jenny's hands began rubbing his back as she began to kiss him hungrily, wanting him to continue and empty himself inside her for the first time. Her hands went to his hips, grabbing them and pushing him away from her before pulling him back into her. Andy got the subtle hint and resumed his thrusts with her help.

It was but seconds later when he felt the telltale signs of the start of his ejaculation process, and there was nothing he could do to stop it. Jenny felt the tenseness and sensed he was near. She didn't care that she wouldn't have an orgasm with him. All she cared was that they were now one in the flesh and no one could ever take that away from her.

She rested her head on his chest afterwards as their breathing slowed to almost a normal rate. Jenny felt like she wanted to stay that way forever, just lying in his arms against him. Thousands of thoughts ran through her mind, thoughts of what just occurred and thoughts about what had happened between the two of them over the past year. At such a young age, she never thought she would be so totally committed to one person, so in love and wanting to be with that person forever. She never expected it to happen so soon, thinking it might happen in when she was in her twenties or in college or after she graduated. But, she never thought it would happen when she was barely eighteen and so quickly.

Andy held her close and didn't want to let her go. In all of his dreams and fantasies about loving her and making love to her, the real thing was so much better. He would never forget the feeling of being inside her and being joined with her. It was everything he could want or hope for and more. He never counted on the emotional part of lovemaking to affect him as it did, thinking only about the physical part. He now knew the sexual bond his parents shared went much deeper than just the physical act of love. He knew it probably would be the same way for him and Jenny.

Jenny sighed contented as she snuggled against him. She could feel his sperm slowly trickle out of her and down her thigh and she smiled at the thought. Andy's hand found her breast and he cupped it lovingly, gently rubbing his finger across the nipple and causing Jenny to shiver slightly from his touch. Jenny giggled softly and placed her hand over his.

"Shoo fly," she laughed as she squeezed his hand. "If you keep doing this, I may not be able to control myself."

"I wouldn't mind," he replied. The thought of loving her again cued his penis to start hardening again.

She raised her head from his chest, turned to him and kissed him hard, maybe harder than she intended. He didn't mind, though, and drew her to him until she was lying on top of him, her breasts crushed between their bodies. Her golden curls were falling into her face, but she didn't bother to brush them aside. She could feel his erection beneath her and she knew she wanted and needed it inside her once more.

Her round, soft breasts dangled in front of Andy's face when she rose up after breaking their kiss. He raised his head and gently nibbled on each little nub with the tips of his teeth as Jenny squealed from their sensitivity. When he stopped, she scooted back until she was directly over his groin. Slowly and sensually, she began to rub herself on him, moving back and forth stimulating herself as the rim of his penis made contact with her clitoris.

After only a few seconds, she could stand it no longer. Raising herself up, she gingerly grabbed him and aimed him towards her own twitching, turgid flesh. When she felt him near her opening, she slowly began to lower herself. Andy gasped slightly as her vaginal muscles enclosed around him once more, its warm moistness surrounding him as lovingly as an infant suckling at his mother's breast. He went in much easier this time, but Jenny grunted slightly from its girth. When he was in completely, Jenny smiled at Andy from above, almost angelically as she waited for his approval to begin. He reached forward and touched each breast that felt so wonderful to his touch. He kneaded them softly and reveled in the way they felt. Andy looked down and saw his dark pubic hair meshed with her blond ones and it was very erotic to him. He could see them joined and he was amazed at the beauty of it. Jenny raised her hips a little bit and he saw her outer lips surrounding his erection, their juices mixed and making it look shiny.

Jenny eased back down and then up again and Andy realized it was now she who was making love to him. His hands settled onto her hips as she continued to rock easily, her breasts bouncing sexily from the movement. She closed her eyes and bit her bottom lip lightly as the tremors began again, all the while rocking on him. For once, she was glad she was a catcher as the motion was akin to the way she played her position. When she opened her eyes, she saw Andy watching her every movement. Their eyes met and locked briefly, he urging her to go for it and enjoy it. 

After a few minutes, she picked up her pace as he was really starting to feel good inside her. Andy sensed her vaginal muscles tightening around him as his own excitement was starting to build as well. Jenny could sense her orgasm building within and she increased her speed even more, causing her breasts to bounce to and fro with abandon. Jenny's body was glistening with sweat from her effort. Soon, her face turned bright red as the first wave slammed through her. She let herself fall down on him as the waves gripped her and sent her through an all-time high. Gritting her teeth, growling, and yelling his name, contraction after contraction went through her. The pressure on Andy was too much to bear as he grunted loudly and let loose with rope after rope of sperm. By then, her waves were starting to subside slightly and she could feel his penis pulsating within her.