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Mollie from Montana

By: Egmont Grigor



 An attractive young attorney abandons her remaining family who've treated her despicably. Mollie is hired under unusual circumstances and landed with chairman's laid-back grandson Gary King to re-program and groom for top management in King & King Law. Mollie's own career takes off and she finds herself being incorporated into the King family, where physical abuse has never surfaced.

Chapter 1

Mollie O'Rourke, looking a little bedraggled and a mite unhealthy, arrived in Acacia by train. She walked across the street to the Traveler's Guest House and booked a cheap room for a week, hoping she'd find work and would then relocate. Two hours later, after a meager meal of soup and vegetarian pie and salad, she went to bed and slept undisturbed, the best sleep she'd had in days.

In the morning Mollie made coffee and sat on the small deck outside her second-floor room and watched the city of 118,000 come slowly to life, the 29-year-old enjoying the first morning of her new life as a free woman. For the past eight years Mollie had cared for her invalid mother, victim of a vehicle crash that had killed her father. Her two brothers who lived and worked the ranch with their wives had paid for day help to allow Mollie to go through college and then on to law school. The day she ended her studies they cut their financial support and only visited their mother on Sunday to have lunch with her, departing as soon as they'd eaten.

Left alone to care for her mother, Mollie was able to use her qualifications to find a position in the property law department in the nearby town's only law firm. Much of the starting salary went toward day care for her mother. Mollie gradually built up her experience with the law firm until her mother died and all hell broke loose. 

Mollie's sisters Megan and Shirley came home for the funeral and the family reunion was pleasant enough until the contents of the will were disclosed after the burial. Megan, Shirley, Clem and Brian were each left a quarter share of the in-debt ranch while Mollie was the beneficiary of an insurance policy for $900,000. At the time the will was written cattle prices were just beginning to ease off and the value of the ranch was assessed unchanged at $4.9 million. Its value had dipped sharply by the time the will was read some years later.

Mollie's older siblings were furious after they learned of the net value of their inheritances compared with Mollie's bequest.

"You're the baby of the family and for twenty-eight years have enjoyed free food and lodging," Brian shouted.

"Yeah, some of that money is ours," Clem snarled.

There was an uneasy silence and then Shirley, the cleverest one of those four, suggested the five of them pool their inheritances and take a one-fifth share.

Mollie said firmly, "No, mother knew what she was doing when she made her decisions. Have patience, we all know farming economics run in cycles and your rosier days will materialize." 

Her brothers and sisters were in no mood to listen and when her position appeared unshakable, Shirley said, "I want the ranch sold or alternatively you guys buy me out." 

"Yeah, me too," said Megan, pregnant with her fourth child.

Brian whispered something to Clem and the younger brother nodded. Brian said threateningly, "Mollie, you're going outside until you come to your senses." 

He and Clem advanced on her and Mollie showed no fear, not even when her brothers stripped her down to her panties and pushed her outside. The laughter of her sisters rang in Mollie's ears as the door slammed behind her and she heard the key turn.

It was snowing but fortunately for Mollie the front porch was in the lee of the howling wind. She sat on a chair and fell shivering to sleep, awoken almost two hours later when her two sisters arrived to half carry her to a warm bath and then they put her to bed. Shirley, Brian and Clem resumed drinking and later loud shouting and screams awoke Mollie. She rushed out to find Brian and Clem had broken Megan's wrist and three of Shirley's fingers when bullying them to reverse their desire to have the ranch sold.

Mollie ran back and returned with her grandfather's unsheathed saber and when toughie Clem advanced on to her saying she'd not have the guts to use it on him; she reversed the blade and whacked him across the face, breaking his nose. She then drove the two men from the house and called the Sheriff's department. 

The brothers received short-term sentences for assault causing injury. Megan's unborn baby appeared unharmed, The brothers instructed their attorney put the ranch up for sale but there was a problem: settlement of a sale could not occur until after probate and finalization of distribution of the estate. 

On the evening her brothers were jailed, Mollie decided to escape her dysfunctional family and the next day, after establishing her identity with her mother's insurance company and lodging her bank account number with them, boarded a train heading east for she knew not where. 

Mollie finally found peace within herself during her escape. After zigzagging 2800 miles non-stop, apart from waiting for connecting services, travel-weary Mollie ended her journey at Acacia City – a place she'd never heard of and where she was sure her despicable brothers who were jailed partly because of her testimony would be unable to find her. She had three suitcases containing all her possessions that included photographs of her parents and children, her personal papers and a glowing reference and work record from her one and only employer. She'd sold her pick-up before leaving and household effects to dealers. 

The morning after her late afternoon arrival in Acacia, Mollie paid the $10/hr her landlady demanded for use of her computer and on the Acacia City website found twenty-eight law firms listed, some of which were advertising for personnel. She noted all phone numbers and during the next three days contacted all twenty-eight about positions. She had three interviews but none of the interviewers expressed any interest in hiring her. Mollie pointed out to no avail that it was the depth of experience and quality of work that mattered most, not the location and size of her previous law office.

Mollie was undetrred, aware that established a new life comes with problems. On her fourth morning in Acacia she found a newspaper advertisement placed by a Realtor requiring a contracts manager. Molly thought at least that would be a place to keep busy until she found an opening in a law office. As she approached the realty office Mollie heard a scraping sound and a shout. It appeared an elderly woman while backing her car out of an angled parking space had knocked a guy off his bicycle. The woman stopped the vehicle and got out. The cyclist appeared not badly hurt, if hurt at all.

The he cut loose. "You stupid old crow, you've wrecked my bicycle."

The woman was firm in her retort. "I'm sorry. Your bike is black and you are wearing black clothing. I-I just didn't see you. I'll pay for repairs or a new bike if that's necessary."

By now Mollie was at the woman's side, ready to assist.

"You bitch, you'll pay for a new bicycle now – three hundred bucks."

Mollie interjected, icy blue eyes flashing, "How dare you attempt to exploit an elderly woman who's admitted partial blame and apologized."

"Stay out of this Blondie or get whacked."

Mollie ignored the threat. "You bike is a heap of rust, you were riding without due care and attention in dark clothing making it difficult to see you on this overcast day. Your brakes are probably defective – go before the police arrive and I then demand your bike's brakes be tested."

"You bitch..."

At the sound of the distant siren the cyclist looked along Main Street and saw flashing lights. Without a word he picked up his cycle, raced across the street and disappeared down an alley.

The woman said calmly, "Thank you dear. You were brave standing up to that bully."

"It was nothing. Excuse me, please stand on the sidewalk and I'll run your car back in."

The police cruiser came slowly down the street. The elderly woman waved at the two patrolmen who both waved back and continued on slowly looking for the reported accident.

"They didn't stop. I'll have to go and report it myself."

"Whatever for?" Mollie smiled. "They chose to ignore you and anyway, where is the bicycle and where is the rider you felled? At the pace he ran across the street and disappeared carrying his wreck I'd say he's definitely not injured. In all probability he has a police record."

"Do you really think so?"

"Like my allegation about his defective brakes I have no idea. Perhaps the bike was stolen?"

The woman smiled. "Now that's really is stretching credibility."

"All I can say it's a possibility. Now, how are you?"

"Just shaken a wee bit. Could you please drive me home as I'm a little shaken? You can then drive back to the city and leave my car where I work. I will call my son about it."

"Yes of course. Allow me to help get you seated."

When Mollie sat behind the wheel she said, "I'm Mollie O'Rourke and am new to this city. I was about to apply for a job at Golden Oakes Realty when I heard the collusion but I expect it will be gone by now."

"Oh, I'm sorry Mollie."

"It's fine. Something else will come along."

"I certainly hope so. What sort of work are you seeking?"

"I'm an attorney and have contacted all the law firms in the city without success."

"Oh dear, this is a conservative city and we have a low level of female attorneys. Perhaps if you knew that you could have applied to be hired as a paralegal person as a starter?"

"No, my career is heading upwards. I have no wish to downgrade."

"I see. Well I admire you for you spirit which I guess gave you courage to stand up to that bully of a man I ran over."

"Correction – there was a collusion between your vehicle and his bicycle. Were you fully to blame or only partly to blame? We remain unsure of the degree of negligence attributable to the cyclist."

"Oh, I'm really talking with an attorney aren't I? Mollie, I am Maureen King. I've changed my mind about being taken home for the moment. Please take me to my place of business where my son and grandson also work. Our offices are on this street. Back out and take the first turn right and then the first turn left and I'll point out our parking lot on our left." 

They parked in a visitor's space and Maureen punched in a number on the security pad. The door clicked open and they entered the plush thickly carpeted and light wood paneled hallway. Mollie said nothing but wondered if they were in a bank. There was a small elevator just inside the door and they rode it to the top floor indicated – the fifth. 

They stepped out and Mollie noticed the empty room directly opposite was a boardroom with seating about a dozen people. The notice on the office next to it stated Chairman and the one next to that was named Managing Partner and the two beside that were both named Partner. By then Mollie had realized she was in the offices of a law firm.

The senior receptionist stood and almost bowed. "Good morning Mrs King – coffee for you and your guest?"

"Yes thank you Marjorie," Maureen said and appeared to wait for further comment from the calm-faced woman in black.

"Have you managed to park satisfactorily?"

"Yes thank you – a service vehicle is in my parking lot."

"I'll have it moved."

"Just issue a warning Marjorie. Please ask my son to see me."

"Yes Mrs King," Marjorie said, opening the door labeled chairman. Somewhat stunned, Mollie followed the chairman into her office, immediately noticing two vases of fresh flowers.

"If you are the principal you must be licensed," Mollie smiled.

"Yes, but these days I represent only the poor and community organizations and around twenty clients I've had for years. This practice, founded by my late husband's grandfather, is a limited liability partnership with my son in day-to-day control but I remain the power behind the throne and that is about to be tested."

Mollie thought that was an interesting comment but before she could phrase a question the door burst open a second after a curt knock and a thickset guy holding his spectacles strode in, leaving Marjorie to move hastily to close the door behind him. The guy was very tall and his florid face looked stressed. He glanced at Mollie with disinterest if not distaste and growled, "Good morning mother, what is it now? I have a client with me."

"This will not take long Stephen. Mollie, this is my son Stephen King. This lovely young woman saved me from a nasty predicament when I knocked a rogue off his bicycle. Stephen meet my good Samaritan Mollie O'Rourke."

Stephen pulled out a billfold. "How much do you want me to pay her mother?"

"Stephen, don't be such a Philistine. Put that money away. Mollie has just arrived in the city looking for a job and I want you..."

"Can you type?"

"Stephen, Mollie is an out-of-town attorney. I want you to find a position for her here."

Losing some of his hostility Stephen asked, "Is it Miss or Mrs O'Rourke?"

"Miss, but please call me Mollie."

Stephen made quite a point of swallowing and adopting a smile. "Mollie, in what areas of law do you confidently believe you possess high competency?"

"Business, Probate/Estate Planning, Family, Adoption, Auto Accidents, Custody, Real Estate, Consumer, Personal Injury, I am experienced in Litigation both in representing plaintiffs and defendants, although not at the same time of course and..."

"I see."

There was no chance of Stephen stalling on this one. His mother asked, "Where are we under strength at the moment Stephen?"

"Taxation, estate planning because you won't contribute, Auto Accidents and Personal Injury..."

"That's it, Mollie can work with Gary under Stanley Jessop."

"No, one weak link in that department is enough. No way will..."

"Stephen, stop this instant. How dare you dub Mollie a weak link without evidence of performance."

Stephen backed off and attempted to look contrite. "Yes mother, you're right. Mollie I must explain. My mother has hit a sensitive area because Gary is my son who is struggling to make an impression. But enough of this. We know nothing about Mollie and presumably she's not licensed to practice in this state."

"Mere formalities and I shall personally assist Mollie to become licensed."

"No mother, and that's my final word on this."

Mollie then witnessed what Maureen King had alluded to in her comment about being the power behind the throne. Stephen stared at her defiantly, beads of perspiration appearing on his brow. Maureen's slightly bent back straightened and she looked as if she were dealing with a naughty boy.

"Stephen, please call an emergency meeting of equity partners for 4:00 today."

Her son capitulated. He pulled out his phone. "Stanley, Mrs King is recruiting an attorney for your department. Could you come to her office immediately and assist with the process. Five minutes? Yes that will be fine."

Stephen snapped his phone shut and asked his mother was that all and was thanked for being so cooperative.

"Thank you Mollie for whatever you did for my mother," Stephen said without malice. "Look, please come to dinner tonight and meet the family because my wife Elaine will be most concerned about that incident. She worries about my mother being allowed to drive a vehicle because of safety issues – to other road users as well as mother. You will also meet Gary since it appears you will be working in that department."

Molly used her neutral look. "Thank you Mr King. In your position I would be worried about Mrs King's driving. Her vehicle appears battle-worn. Either she requires a more suitable vehicle, or corrective eyewear, perhaps both, or should engage a chauffer. I shall talk to her about this if Mrs King is prepared to listen to me. I can be very persuasive when dealing with clients who put other citizens at risk." 

Maureen sniffed and said something that sounded very much like 'you young bitch' while Stephen looked at Mollie almost in awe before nodding to her and departing, leaving senior receptionist Marjorie to close the door.

"Now listen here," Maureen began as Mollie turned to her and with an engaging smile Mollie cut in and said, "He behaves like a naughty boy when confronted by you. I'll speak to him about that given the opportunity. Why does he look so hassled?"

"He's over-worked as senior partner Harold Franks is not pulling his weight and Stephen has the problem of delaying my grandson's elevation to partnership because Gary is showing signs he'll not make the grade."

"Oh dear. Have you thought of moving out? That would allow Stephen to take over the chairmanship and your office and allow him to appoint another senior partner to remove some of the load off him. You could work on Gary's problems as well as continuing working your special interests and have the joy of being removed from chairmanship responsibilities."

Mouth open, Maureen closed it and said curiously, "Have you and Stephen met before and he's encourage you to say that to me?"

"No, of course not. Until he walked into this room minutes ago I had no idea he existed." 

Mollie had a thought and smiled. "Oh, I should mention one of my strengths is working in alternative dispute resolution. It's something that seems to suit the way I think."

"I see, so that explains why you didn't immediately say I shouldn't be allowed to drive?"

"Yes although that remains at the back of my mind. But first there is need to look for possible quick-fixes such as a vehicle that gives you better vision, your own vision should be checked and perhaps you should attend a refresher driving course. Before you pooh-ha that suggestion and say defiantly no one could teach you to drive better because you have been driving since you were a teenager – we must assume people did have cars then – please remember trying anything is better than having the right to drive taken from you."

Maureen's mouth tightened. "You live dangerously but then again you are not without the ability to talk sense."

Mollie hid her triumph, as she knew formidable Maureen was more than listening to her. "And you appear to be a matriarch who when having a quiet drink ought to consider her position and meditate the words, 'Absolute power corrupts.' Is that what is behind Gary's dilemma Maureen – a matriarch, a rebellious and strong-willed father and perhaps a mother also strong willed and who is at her wits end how to turn her son's lights on?"

Maureen sighed heavily and clutching a hand at her throat breathed, "Oh God Mollie, just who are you?"

Avoiding eye contact Mollie said simply, "I'm a nobody Mrs King – just a misfit in what is left of my own family. I'm just Mollie from Montana."

"Well listen to this Mollie from Montana. Within five minutes you have told me what my son has been telling me for some two years but I wouldn't listen. It is true; I have become a misfit within my former empire. You wouldn't know this but my husband's father chose me to succeed him as managing attorney ahead of his own son. And I'm now absolutely confident you have put the finger of what's turned Gary's lights off, to use your stimulating words. Welcome to our law practice Mollie."

There was a polite knock on the door.

"Enter!"

"No, say please enter."

Without looking at Mollie. Maureen called demurely, "Come in Stanley."

The surprised looking Stanley Jessop entered and appeared even more surprised when the chairman said, "And how's the new baby Stanley?"

"She's blooming thank you Mrs King."

"Stanley Jessop, this is Mollie from Montana, er, I mean Miss Molly O'Rourke who is to fill the vacancy in your department. Neither Stephen nor I have a clue about her competence and she's not yet registered to practice in this state but those are minor details. I want Mollie working in your department and working alongside Gary. I want them to work as a team with neither being called the team leader for the first weeks of Mollie's appointment. Then, from your own observations and appraisals, you'll label the most deserving one of them with senior status. I suspect before too long Mollie will be setting your department alight and taking Gary along with her, but let's wait and see." 


Mollie from Montana Ch. 02



Chapter 2

At the café while Mollie was forking up salad, Gary studied her. Mollie was tall for a woman, just over six foot, curvy and he thought if she really bothered with make-up and had her hair shaped and highlighted, she'd pass as an exceptionally good looker. 

Mollie's icy blue eyes bored into him. "Like what you see?"

Gary immediately lowered his reddening face and remained mute.

"Look at me and answer Gary," she said firmly and he obeyed like a puppy being trained.

She snapped: "God-damn Gary, do you do everything you're told?"

Wiping away his apologetic look before she had time berate him for that, Gary managed a weak smile and said, "You have lovely boobs."

Molly froze and colored, her mouth falling open slowly. 

Gary stared until she dropped her gaze and savored his small victory until he almost panicked, feeling her shoe between his ankles and slowly move up and down a bit, sending a high-energized sex charge sweeping through his body. What the fuck? The café was crowded and everyone could see what she was doing.

"It's all right Gary, no one can see what I'm doing," Molly whispered, presumably having read Gary's panic.

"Are you sure?" he said a little hoarsely.

"I have no idea but most people don't study feet. Anyone curious enough to look at you would be wondering were you too besotted with me to eat."

Gary snatched at his turkey on rye and bit into it, his mouth now too full to speak. He listened, attentively and was almost blown away.

"Your grandmother has recruited me Gary because she senses something about me. She has no idea that I was brilliant in my younger years caring for injured or sick animals but as I said, she senses something in me. This morning she knocked a guy off his bicycle and I went to her aid when I saw the hunk of a cyclist about to verbally assault her. I dealt with him -- bravely according to your grandmother -- and leveled an accusation against him, suggesting he had been cycling without due care and that his bicycle appeared unroadworthy. With a cruiser's siren in the distance he scampered. Apparently I continued to impress your grandmother, accepting her request for me to drive her home but when she found I was an attorney looking to be hired she had me drive her to her office. She found about me. I found out about her and your father and why he appears hassled and thereafter your grandmother and I just seemed to hit the same wavelength. Finally she decided to recruit me to team with you. Now don't throw up at that thought -- she believes it's possible I can turn on your lights."

"What?" Gary said, exhibiting half a mouthful of food.

"If you are deemed good enough to be invited to become a partner Gary, that would take some of the weight off your father. And if you grandmother resigns as chairman..."

"Never, she'll die in that office," Gary said, a few crumbs flying from his mouth.

"Well, she was shocked when I said it had to be. Your grandmother indicated your father had been hinting for that for some time."

Gary swallowed some food and said, "More than pressing -- he's become desperate about it."

"This is confidential between you and me Gary. I think as from this morning your grandmother has committed to moving out the day you gain partner status. Your grandmother sees me as the big hope of butt-kicking you to achieve that elevation and that's the reason she has over-ridden her prejudice against having another female attorney admitted into the company."

At that Gary knew the impudent, pushy and obviously highly intelligent manipulator facing him was telling the truth. He was unable to come to any other conclusion why his grandmother would recruit an attorney outside the established recruitment protocol and a female one at that. A fucking nurse-maid. He felt his anger rising and prepared to bite back.

"Gary," Mollie grinned. "If you wish to abuse anyone over this, go and shout and stomp your foot at your grandmother. This is all her doing. All I wanted was a job and she's given me one, a very specific one with an addendum attached. No way will I intentionally disappoint her, having accepted the condition, so please just accept this is for your own good."

His face colored again. "How can you allege that?"

"Well, this interfering bitch will ask you this question. Gary, you are thirty..."

"Thirty three and two months."

"Gary, you're at an age when you should be a partner in the law practice controlled by your grandmother and father who both desire to have you accelerated to partnership status, so what's the problem Gary?"

"Too much fucking interference and pressure," he whispered, face darkening.

Mollie smiled at him beautifully. "Then would not you agree with this interfering bitch that pressure alone is unlikely to count for anything beyond suppressing performance?"

"I suppose so."

"And erode confidence?"

"Could be."

"And that the quickest way out of this hole is to resign and try elsewhere?"

"I've been thinking about that."

"Or alternatively, have your smart-ass grandmother team you up with a personable mentor?"

"God you are good Mollie. The only answer to that is yes."

"Good man," Mollie said, watching Gary raise his glass to his lips. "Now tell me what is it you like about my tits?"

Some of the ice water blown involuntarily from Gary's mouth splattered over Mollie's chest. She beamed and said that was an unexpectedly lively response. Gary just eyed her, pursing his lips while Mollie dabbed herself dry.

They returned to the office and Mollie talked to Stanley until all attorneys were back in the room. He called a meeting and introduced Mollie from Montana as Mrs King's protégé without offering an explanation until the oldest attorney Paul commented, "It's a bit rich having a woman dumped on us. Has Mrs King finally lost it?"

"Thank you for your comment Paul," Stanley said tolerantly. But he looked directly at Paul when he said, "Mrs King has deemed that Mollie has mentoring qualities and has explained this to me at length. Apparently she sees a lot of herself as a young woman in Mollie but if you wish to dispute the chairman's decision Paul please go to her office and have it out with her now or alternatively stay here and I'll ask Mollie to defend her appointment to this department. I suspect coming from hard graft in Montana she's more than capable of taking a very strong adversary role."

"In that case Mollie, please explain yourself," Paul said.

"No thank you Paul. If you have concerns go see Mrs King. I'm sure with her long experience she'll shred you in seconds. If I have to defend my appointment to people who supposedly are colleagues then I'm left with the impression I'm not in the right workplace."

People standing next to Paul moved away from him.

"Ah, quite right Mollie," Paul smiled. "Welcome to the team."

Then to Gary's embarrassment Stanley explained he had been charged with the task of accelerating Gary's progress to partnership status. Whatever are your views about this keep them private and remember this practice is called King & King Law and for good reason. I ask you all when preparing your briefs and believe you have an open and shut case please refer to me and I'll hand it on to Gary to increase his level of success stats. I know..."

"Stanley?"

"Yes Mollie? It is not usual here to interrupt me."

Mollie carried on regardless. "May I suggest you completely reverse that directive, that when guys think they have an unwinnable case they suggest you pass it on to Gary and me as his assistant. Mrs King and Stephen in monitoring Gary's progress will be focusing on quality of work more than quantity of work. Both non-equity and equity partners are required to be able and outstanding achievers."

Stanley digested that and appeared disgruntled until Gary said, "I think she'd right. What do you think guys?"

"Yes," several replied and Paul, who was Stanley's deputy, took everyone by surprise when he said, "Stanley that's quality analytical thinking from Mollie. Mrs King would have you nuts for breakfast if she found you responsible for manipulating outcomes." 

"Do we have agreement on that," Stanley asked and received only affirmative replies. "Thank you for the quality of your teamwork," he grinned. "I suspect we are not in for an easy ride around here now that Mollie is on the team."

"Subject to documentation verification and licensing," Mollie reminded him.

"Oh yeah, Mollie's papers have yet to be filed with us and being just a tad short of five years' practicing may have to sit the bar examination after sitting the Multi-state Professional Responsibility Examination." 

There was no comment on how could Mollie have been hired if she'd not presented her papers. Mollie attended to that deficiency and handed in documentation later that afternoon.

* * *

Maureen King handed Mollie the keys and said she'd better drive.

"I've been thinking about what you said about having my eyes tested, and replacing this vehicle but I'm not going to a driving school to be grouped with kids or misfits who'll never drive."

"I don't blame you. Hire a tutor for private lessons. She'll come to your home or if that would embarrass you she'll meet you in some out-of-the-way place."

"She?"

"Yes but choose wisely. I think you'd scare the crap out of most male tutors."

Maureen didn't answer and then Mollie heard suppressed laughter breaking through. Maureen chuckled, "You act like a tonic on me Mollie. What sort of vehicle do you think I should buy?"

"A Hummer."

Maureen came close to hysterics. "God Mollie, you are a bit of a devil."

"I'm the youngest of five children. My two brothers, who are hard men in their early forties, were always tough on my two older sisters and me. My sisters retaliated by taking it out on me. I can cuss as good as most men and be just as abusive and when I reached my mid-teens my two sisters would only take me on together."

Molly had given her background to Maureen and Stanley, but not to this extent.

"Goodness, but what about intervention by your parents?"

"Dad dominated the family, especially mom and the boys and in my mid-teens when he found he could not longer bend my will, no matter how hard he tried, I became his pet. I can tell you that really was no treat for me as my siblings became very jealous of me."

Molly drove Maureen to tears when she learned of Mollie's father's death in the road accident than left her mother a crippled and with brain damage and how she was forced to take over the care of her mother whenever she had a break from college and was left to financially support her mother from the time she began working.

"You poor darling," Maureen said, patting Mollie's shoulder.

"Oh, many people are far worse off than me," Mollie said. "I had my three escapes -- going off to college, and then on return escaping into law, and then in my final escape from my family after my poor mother's death."

"God Mollie, however have you managed to bounce up from all that?"

Mollie grinned and turned to deliver a throwaway line to Maureen but turned away, astonished to see the hurt on the face of the elderly woman who'd befriended her.

"What time is dinner Maureen?"

"About 7:00 if that suits you. We are very early."

"Well let's go and trade this car for either a new car or last year's model."

"What, a larger car?"

"No a slightly smaller one but with better vision than this model."

"I really don't know. Shouldn't we wait till I have my eyes tested and have tuition?"

"We can kill time by kicking tires."

Maureen and Molly arrived at the large home just before 7:00 in a new Honda Civic auto with leather trim. Maureen parked in the garage without hitting anything. 

"This car is so easy to drive and I didn't look like scraping the gate posts or the garage doors."

"That's because this car is YOU Maureen. It affords excellent vision, you don't take your eyes off the road changing gears as you did in that manual model with its much heavier steering."

"You're right and I really like the metallic blue color. Thank you for pushing me Mollie."

"Pushing you -- I only made suggestions. You made the decisions."

"I am not deceived. Thank you, and I mean it."

A pleasant-faced woman in her late forties, a tad plump and fashionably dressed, said to Maureen and Mollie as they emerged from the vehicle, "And what do we have here?"

"My new car -- Mollie made me buy it."

"I'm sure she didn't Maureen but it seems an excellent choice for you, and without dents it would appear. Hello Mollie. I'm Elaine King, Gary's mother. He's called to say he's been given -- now let me quote him correctly -- an impressive, pretty and super-intelligent minder."

"Oh, Mrs King, I'm sure Gary is just..."

"Gary tends to understate rather than overstate dear. Please call me Elaine."

"Yes Elaine," Mollie said demurely and was rewarded with a warm smile.

"Don't even bother attempting to out-maneuver her Elaine. This girl has been to hell and back."

Intrigued, Elaine laughed softly. "Welcome to the home of Kings Mollie. I'm also an outsider to some degree so it gives me a kick saying that."

"She's also a bit of a tease," Maureen sniffed, "but is the nicest one of the extended family, although with your assistance I'm expecting Gary to rise to Elaine's level."

"Maureen, please don't over-expect."

Before Maureen could reply Elaine said incredulously, "She allows you to call her Maureen?"

"Yes but what's so unusual about that?"

"Oh, if you only knew."

Appearing a little tight lipped, Maureen then said, "Elaine only has her charity work to occupy her mind Mollie so she tends to make a big moment out of anything that appears outside the square."

"And dealing with you and your sharp mind she'd never be short on practice," Mollie observed, to the delight of both women.

"Come on you two," Elaine said, taking each woman by an arm. "Let's give the men something to think about. It's to your credit Mollie that Stephen has arrived home half an hour early to dress to dinner. You appear to have knocked him out of his square."

Stephen and Gary, in jackets and casual shirts without ties, put down their drinks and moved to meet the women.

"Good evening Mollie, welcome to our home," Stephen said with a wide smile. 

Mollie answered firmly, "Good evening Stephen." 

If Gary disappointed Mollie by not stepping forward and kissing her she didn't show it. He did smile and say she looked lovely. When returning to the boarding house earlier to collect her professional documents, Mollie had showered and changed into a low-neck dark blue gathered tulle dress that showed off her light coloring and fair hair to perfection and, with the hem just above the knees, revealed well-shaped legs above the white satin peep-toe shoes. 

Gary looked up from studying Mollie's chest to find her studying him. He nodded awkwardly, leaving Mollie wondering slyly why wasn't he interested in her hair since she'd spent a lot of time combing it up to be admired.

"You have lovely hair," Stephen purred and caught unaware Mollie said thank you, almost as a whisper, and blushed slightly and her color deepened when she saw the other two women looking at her admiringly. Only then did she realize she was standing directly under the chandelier in the dark-paneled room with the shades drawn against the strong low-level sun.

Stephen poured the women a light dry wine and when Elaine went to the kitchen to attend to dinner, Maureen invited Mollie to look at her 'apartment'. Maureen occupied half of the second floor of the house originally built by her late husband's paternal grandfather but since then the house had been upgraded several times.

"It's like living in the country as we are on two acres and yet are less than ten minutes drive from the office," Maureen said. When she went off to 'freshen up' for dinner, Mollie went to the kitchen where Elaine stopped working and hugged her. 

"Stephen has told me what mom is up to and I'll worm the full story from her late tonight. I hope you can succeed where we have failed -- he's such a fine boy Mollie. I know it's a psychological blockage. An eminent psychologist described it as 'anti-materialism defiance'. Have you seen his car?"

"No, I don't think so," Mollie answered curiously. 

"It is white and nondescript, with more dents that mom's old car. He's refused to allow me to buy him a new and better vehicle."

Mollie, who was getting used to Elaine referring to her mother as 'mom' said, "You mean that Japanese rust-bucket just inside the compound at the office?" and Elaine said yes and appeared set to weep. "He only dresses up a bit for the office because Stephen refused to allow him into the office unless he did so."

"But why would Gary back down and agree to conform?"

"Because he's almost as confused about his behavior as we are. Mom sees you as our great hope Mollie and over the years I've learned to trust her judgment implicitly. She's fading now but Maureen has been a really awesome woman. Gary was raised to succeed her but we now realize we applied too much pressure much too early. Please don't misinterpret what I'm about to tell you Mollie but already I believe you have the inside running -- I saw him when you arrived looking at you in a way I've never seen him look at a female before."

Initially confused, Mollie then clicked. "You mean the way he looked at my tits?"

Elaine came close to slapping a hand over her mouth in shock. Her eyes bulged and then she caught Mollie's steadfast smile and began to chuckle and they both were almost giggling.

"Mollie -- that word. May I point out this is not Montana?"

Mollie laughed and replied, "Elaine, may I point out that conservatism rules in Montana. I just happen to be a misfit. I see the meat has been resting. May I carve it for you?"

"Yes, of course. How lovely of you to offer. I'll get the knife." Elaine reached for an electric knife from its plastic box.

"No, a real knife please."

"Very well, but please take care not to cut yourself," Elaine said, pulling an ancient carving knife from a drawer.

"And the steel," Mollie said, testing the edge of the blade with her thumb.

Elaine watched in awe as the knife flew along the surface of the steel sharpener being held vertically.

"Oh my goodness, I have not seen knife-work like that since Grandfather King was here in the early days when I came to live as a new bride."

"Have you always lived in the King family household?"

"Yes, since I was nineteen."

"Well, you appear to have retained your personality and individuality."

Elaine's shock was over in seconds and she smiled warmly at her new friend. "You are so open and even be outspoken Mollie. Aren't you afraid that could get you into trouble?"

"Don't let the bastards and bitches grind you down -- that's my motto Elaine. Be afraid and they'll have you."

"Oh Mollie, be like that if you find it necessary but leave space in your heart to love and be loved."

"Are you a lay preacher?"

Coming close to producing a belly laugh Elaine smiled, "Oh Mollie, you are a wonderful young lady. I can see why mom is smitten and why even my stoic man finds himself reluctantly impressed. I want you to unlock my son Mollie and suggest you hold back otherwise you will overwhelm him."

"It's okay Elaine. He's no different to a mistreated young dog or a yearling calf that is literally the butt of the herd."

"What?"

"I shouldn't have said that Elaine. Just maintain your confidence that I'll deliver to you eventually a son your boy really wants to be. However, don't automatically think his future lies with you and the family and King Law. I'll not manipulate him to that extent because he can't be freed unless he feels free."




Mollie from Montana Ch. 02



Elaine almost whimpered, "Are you saying what I think you are saying?"

Choosing her words carefully, Molly said, "I believe I can unleash him Elaine but I'll not reprogram him."

"What, even if that means him forsaking his family and his career?"

"No."

"Oh God."

"Indeed, just think about what you've just said and what I have just expressed to you Elaine. Think deeply and in all probability you will experience enlightenment. Try not to switch off your thoughts. Just let them come."

Elaine had turned white and was rocking on her feet.

"The plates please Elaine -- I need to carve and you need to serve. Hereon the moment is about delivering the meal."

That flicked Elaine's switch and her color slowly returned, as did her energy. They worked without talking.

"Hello, am I entering a morgue?" Maureen said, now out of her severe black and into blue almost the same shade as Mollie's dress but twelve inches farther down the leg and the top high up to her neck. "God, I haven't seen beef cut and served like that since Grandfather King's day."

"Your husband?"

"No Mollie, his father. Has Mollie made a hit on you Elaine? It's a long time since I've seen you colored up like that and wearing such a big fat smile."

Elaine blushed hugely. "Mom -- you are almost as confrontational as Mollie. We've been talking -- she made me so unhappy but it ended well, leaving me seeing hope."

"Ah, I knew that would happen. That's why I dawdled before coming down. I wanted Mollie to talk to you. Now move your asses. We need to complete the integration of Mollie."

"What do you mean?"

"Your conservative husband. He's not yet convinced but let me handle it."

The men looked approvingly at the smoothly sliced meat and looked admiringly at Mollie when told she could 'sharpen a knife like granddad King use to'.

During a rest before Elaine served dessert Maureen said, "Tell us about growing up and your later life in Montana Mollie."

The others listened politely while Mollie obliged and Elaine appeared rather disappointed as if she'd been expecting something far more gripping. When Mollie had finished Maureen said calmly, "That was the sanitized version Mollie. Please tell it how it really was, just as you told me earlier today."

"Maureen -- please."

"It will allow them to understand you better and why you are so empowered."

"No Maureen."

"Please Mollie, do it for me."

Mollie looked at Elaine plaintively and Stephen asked her to, "Spit it out."

Gary interjected, "Don't let them sway you Mollie. They are ganging up and if you allow it they'll screw you up."

Everyone looked at Gary quite startled but didn't comment until Mollie said, "Will it be okay if I do relate how it was Gary?"

He sipped some wine and said, keeping his gaze on the table, "Only if you decide it's okay."

"Okay, then I'll do it because I'd like you and your mother to know Gary."

He didn't respond.

For the next twenty minutes Mollie delivered an uncensored summary of her life in Montana incorporating the joys, the downs, the bullying and the tragedies and her suffering and her reactions and determination to rise about it all. Her voice rose and fell appropriately to inject greater emotion and the family listened soundlessly, Maureen dabbing at her eyes occasionally with her napkin.

As Mollie was winding down at the end Elaine had the same reaction her mother expressed earlier that day, "Oh, you poor darling Mollie" and received the same reply Maureen had received.

"Ah, many people are far worse off than me Elaine. I had my three escapes -- going off to college, and then on return escaping into law, and then my final escape from my family after my poor mother's death."

Elaine burst into tears and raced to the kitchen.

Stephen said, "Please go to her mom,"

Mollie chipped in. "No, you go to your mother Gary." 

He remained unmoved.

"Gary, please. Go to your mother -- it will mean so much to her."

"Okay Mollie." Gary left the table displaying no reaction and certainly didn't look sullen.

"See what I mean?" Maureen said triumphantly to Stephen, who was still staring at Mollie.

"By God Mollie," Stephen said, before shaking his head and asking, "More wine anyone?"

"Yes please," said both women. Stephen then once again had his credulity stretched -- the sight of his iron-hearted mother dragging the visitor on to her shoulder and gently stroking Mollie's cheek.

Gary returned his mother to the table. Everyone accepted Elaine's apology with smiles and Gary handed his mother her glass of water.

"Please serve desert Gary."

"I've never done it before Mollie. I know nothing about kitchen work."

"It's apple crumble -- I saw it in the warming drawer. Just cut it with a knife and use a big spoon or a serving slice to heap it on plates. We won't mind if it looks messy."

"I don't think..."

"I do it," Stephen said but as he stood he was ignored.

"A buffoon could serve apple crumble Gary," Mollie continued relentlessly. "But if you wish I will stand beside you and give you instructions."

"N-no. I'll manage."

"Thank you Gary."

"Tell him about the whipped cream," Elaine whispered.

"No, I'll fetch it if his brain fails to deliver," Mollie said firmly.

Gary brought in crumbled apple crumble topped with whipped cream on two plates that he laid before his grandmother and his mother and returned with two more servings. He handed one to his father and sat down with the other.

"You're forgotten Mollie," his mother chided.

"No I didn't -- Mollie's is on the kitchen table. The bully can get it herself."

Elaine jumped up but Mollie was already on her way to the kitchen. Grinning she turned and said to Gary, "And here was I thinking you were a brat without a brain!"

The lovely evening ended with Maureen handing Gary the keys to her new car and asking him to drive Mollie to her hotel and not to dent the vehicle.

Gary was surprised when Mollie directed him to a poorer part of the city and was shocked when he found she resided at a cheap boarding house opposite the railway station. "You can't live here. Let's collect your things -- I'm taking you back home."

"No thank you Gary. My room is clean, dry and without fleas. It's quite a palace compared with the original homestead my mother and I were banished to after my father's death."

"You're had such a hard life Mollie. It's amazing you survived and, as you have said, emerged being a stronger person despite what you went through."

"I say because of it, rather than despite it. You know Gary, I suspect you may have had an upbringing in which you were similarly uncomfortable with and whereas I had physical as well as verbal abuse you may have suffered just as unkindly under the weight of verbal pressure."

"But I was rarely hit."

"That's fortunate but think of the mental pressure -- probably the difference between us is I chose to ignore it as much as possible and never to yield whereas you may have found the easiest way out was to submit after initial resistance."

"I don't really know what to say."

"And you never will Gary, until you learn to trust me and to share your thoughts with me freely."

"You think you can turn me around, don't you?"

"Yes."

"How can we achieve that?"

Mollie smiled and said she could think of a number of ways. She used her right hand to sweep her hair back, knowing that even in the dim illumination in the vehicle Gary would see her breasts push forward.

He reacted predictably. "You mean through sex?"

"That's a thought Gary but we need to progress from the beginning and move along slowly. It takes time to build trust and to feel your respect for a person is building. So let's not rush it, huh? I take it you like sex?"

Gary nodded.

Mollie said she preferred a spoken response.

"Yes, I do."

"That's good. Well, I must go to my bed. We don't want your grandmother thinking you've wrecked her car."

"Don't you want me to elaborate more?"

"Not tonight Gary. First things first." She reached for the door handle.

"Please allow me," Gary said, scramble out of his door. Mollie waited for him to lope around the front of the vehicle and open her door.

When he closed the door and stood awkwardly she pressed up against him, kissed his lips briefly and pulled away just as he was in the process of clasping her.

"What now?"

"You're going home Gary. I want you to think about my tits and then to allow your mind to drift and for you to think about some of the things you've heard discussed tonight and me making you serve desert which rather upset your mother and how you finally thought that was okay but you'd make the bitch get her own desert to get your own back. I would suspect that was a rare move for you Gary -- the reactions displayed by your family indicated that. Good man."

Gary grinned.

"And then if you can Gary think about the desolate way I arrived in this city a few nights ago and yet look at me now, in the process of being engaged in one of the leading legal practice in this city and the influence I've already had on you and your family. You know I have no special external powers Gary, so if I can do it why not you? And think of this Gary -- for better or for worse you'll have me alongside you, one who knows your predicament better than even your own mother does. Better still, you know I know how to turn your lights on although I cannot do that overnight. That being the case, I want you to think this leaves you perched in the driver's seat but nobody but you can make you drive, so what is it to be Gary?"

"What can I say?"

"The day you can answer that truthfully Gary you will know your spirit is firing. Don't rush it, resist if you must, but please accept that I'll be slowly but relentlessly pushing you all the way."

"You're in danger of becoming over-confident Mollie."

"Danger excites me Gary and I see no end to my potential and have no desire to sight any end to it. And why should I? If you wish to challenge yourself, keep on asking yourself questions of increasing complexity. You have absolutely no chance of outwitting or out-extending your mind. Believe that this is what this is all about. My goal is not to make you achieve your family's expectation that you'll become the future supremo of King law. My goal is to assist you to turn on your lights."

"You are simply amazing, so inspirational Mollie."

"Goodnight Gary."

"Goodnight Mollie. May I have another kiss?"

"No," said Mollie, brushing back her hair before turning to walk away.

Twenty minutes later Mollie received a call. "Hi, it's Elaine. I've just called to say Gary has just been in to kiss me goodnight."

"That's good, isn't it?"

"I certainly think so, particularly since it's the first time he's done that voluntarily in years."

"Oh."

"Indeed. He thinks you are so inspirational."

"He's just told me that but it means more hearing he's told you that. Did he tell where I'm living?"

"No. Is that important?"

"No. Look, do you mind if I call you tomorrow. I have no one else to call."

"No darling, call me twice a day if you wish. I'll sleep well tonight."

"Thank you. Good night Elaine."



Mollie from Montana Ch. 03



Chapter 3

Three days later Elaine asked if she could view the apartment Mollie had all but decided to lease. Pleased to have Elaine taking an interest, Mollie agreed but was a little disappointed when Elaine said it was reasonable but then smiled and asked could she show Mollie an alternative.

"This so-called alternative is far too expensive for me," Mollie said when Elaine drove into the two-level basement parking lot of a luxury apartment tower overlooking the river on the fringe of the central business district. "I could afford to live here if I'd doubled my income."

"It costs nothing to look."

The big corner apartment was beautifully furnished with white leather sofas and chairs and a very modern glass dining table with stainless steel and trendy white-stitched black leather chairs. There was a small separate kitchen, a big bedroom and a guest bedroom, a study with a day bed, two bathrooms and the lounge was huge.

"It's beautiful – love at first sight for me," Mollie said dreamily. "How much?"

"The same as you would pay a month for that apartment we just viewed, $885."

"But this is twice as large, more luxurious and in a premier location – that cannot be so?"

"That's a sound assumption, but it's just sitting here. I'm rather wealthy in my own right Mollie. I purchased this apartment for Gary last month from someone desperate to sell. I thought if Gary got away from home that might assist him to find his feet. Unfortunately but my son refused to even come and view it."

"Oh dear, both a sacrifice and a disappointment."

"I've been thinking perhaps..." Elaine's voice faded.

"That if I were living here he might be tempted to move in?"

Elaine squirmed. "I know I'm clutching at straws and imposing on you."

"And risking pressuring Gary?"

"Oh God, yes. I'm not thinking straight, am I?"

"You know, it might work. I am aware he is attracted to me."

Eyes widening, Elaine asked, "Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"And what about you?"

"I'd be lying if I were to say I wasn't interested. But the issue is what affect would any such union have on Gary? We mustn't mindlessly think it would automatically assist the mission."

"Of course not."

A patsy answer was not good enough for Mollie. It was perhaps indelicate to push but she considered she must. "What's your instinctive feeling?"

"Oh Mollie, why ask me? Is it because I'm his mother?"

"That's good enough reason for me."

Elaine said she'd say what she knew in her heart was true. "If you two start having good sex he'll quickly become the best pal you've ever had."

Mollie eyed her carefully and sighed. "I'd go along with that, completely. The trouble is I believe all conservative professional opinion would advise me against it. If an emotional attachment turns sour or Gary feels he is being over-powered, I could be setting us up to fail."

"Unless you split the relationship and operate a dual management role just as mothers do with their children. Their behavior and attempted control over their children at home changes when they are associated with other mothers and their children in a different environments such as in the school yard."

Mollie look at Elaine in surprise and her eyes lit, saying Elaine had made a significant point. "You're saying if we do become involved we make a pact to act differently between when we are at home to when we are at work or involved with other people?"

"Yes, that is what I'm suggesting. Behavioral boundaries are established. At home you would be lovers whereas at work you would be almost adversaries while at the same time attempting to develop common goals."

"Something like that," Mollie grinned. "The business relationship would be multi-layered and riddled with minefields."

Elaine smiled and asked Mollie dryly had she attempted to maintain a long-term lover relationship? "It's bound to move away from focus on touch, sighs, huge ejaculations and candlelight dinners."

They laughed and looked at each other emotionally, mutual respect showing.

"Does Gary know this is the apartment you purchased?"

"No, we never got to that level before he rejected the idea."

"Good, then I am confident of luring him here when he feels ready and can provide sex hot enough to give him a compelling reason to move in with me. But I warn you that will come with three risks. One, if he finds out this is a set-up I'm as good as dead and he may never trust you again. Two, if we have miscalculated it may ruin any chance I have of turning Gary around and so I need your assurance you are comfortable about accepting that risk. And three..."

"You and Gary may fall in love."

Mollie looked away.

"Come on, you're not the only one with a brain and a good sense of anticipation. Mom and I have already talked about it and we both would like to see that happen. You are still connected to your background Mollie. That part of your life will fade although never will be forgotten. There may even be a family reconciliation ahead for you one day. But mom and I see you as an adorable young woman and would welcome you into the family. As for Stephen, well we don't know except if Gary makes associate status on true merit Stephen will give you anything you want."

"Thank you for that Elaine. I am deeply touched. Now to business – what is the recommended monthly rental for this apartment furnished to this quality?"

"Around $2100."

"All right, here's the deal. I'll pay half of that now and if Gary moves in he'll pay the other half."

"No, you have the first month free and then pay $885 a month and if Gary moves in you get him to match that. That's the rental rate for family. I'm firm about that Mollie."

"Are you sure?"

"Very sure."

"Good, I'll move it tomorrow if that is okay with you."

"Very okay. The family is going out for dinner tonight. I'd like you to join us. I'll call when I find out where mom's PS has booked us in."

"That would be lovely. I am expecting to hear from my manager Stanley Jessop this afternoon that my appointment is confirmed. My credentials are being checked and he's arranging for me to become licensed to practice in this state."

"So you remain on the loose until then?"

"No and Maureen saw this before even I did when she was unraveling her proposal to me: the arrangement we have means I can properly be a legal buddy to Gary providing I don't step beyond roles as a researcher and adviser. I must refrain from giving legal advice to our clients."

"But you can make suggestions and lead Gary where necessary?"

"Yes."

"So you can fully participate in the meantime in jointly preparing briefs and discussing tactics and work to strengthen his backbone?"

"Exactly and that means from day one I can be performing my role with him."

"Splendid. I'm so happy about that. Let's go for coffee. Oh, do you mind if we also call in somewhere – there's a dress I have been looking at?"

Surprised, Mollie smiled and said not at all.

They stood looking at the dress being held by a store assistant.

"Should I buy it?"

Mollie, her voice neutral, said yes.

"You don't sound overly enthusiastic."

"You like it so why not buy it?"

Elaine said to the assistant would she leave them for a few minutes. They both watched the assistant walk away.

"What do you think of her?" Mollie asked.

"She seems nice, why do you ask?"

"I mean what did you focus on as walked away – the back of her hair, her back, her ass, her legs or her shoes?

Looking a little edgy, Elaine said, "Mollie, what is this about?"

"Answer me. She's around your age."

Elaine signed and said her legs and asked what had Mollie looked at.

"Her legs. And why did we do that?"

"I really don't know."

Mollie stared at Elaine. "Because butts at your age are not eye-catching but that woman has good legs."

"Yes, and her stockings or panty hose complemented her dress, being a couple of shades lighter."

"At least two shades darker actually. Elaine you have better shaped legs than that woman, not that we are allowed to see much of them."

"Are you saying my hemlines are too low?"

"Yes."

Elaine swallowed. "All right."

"All right what?"

"Choose a dress for me."

"Okay, but my choice of color or very close to it?"

"You're making me nervous Mollie but very well. This is why I asked you to accompany me here."

Mollie waved to the assistant who hurried over. "Mrs King will try on the dress you were holding for her. Elaine opened her mouth to comment but emitted only a sigh.

She walked out of the cubicle confidently. "This dress is me."

"I'd have to agree silver and black does suit you, Mollie said. "Now I want you to look carefully in the mirrors at your hemline from all angles."

Smiling Elaine did that and then eyed Mollie. "I'm ready to be shocked."

Mollie asked the assistant to pin up the hem three inches.

"Three inches," Elaine quavered.

"Yes."

"I agree, " said the assistant, earning a glare from Elaine. "Ma'am has lovely legs, from what we are permitted to glimpse."

Elaine looked ready to throttle the woman.

When the quick pinning was completed Elaine looked in the mirrors and all but wailed, "This definitely is not me."

"No, is the new you," Mollie pressed. "What do you have in that length – we need it for this evening."

"Come this way Miss."

They returned with two dresses. Black and burnt orange.

"Maureen will be wearing black and I never wear hideous orange."

"May we have my choice please," Mollie said, and the assistant walked away with the offending dresses chosen to steer Elaine to the selected garment.

"Green, I never wear green," Elaine said doubtfully, eyeing the shimmering silk.

"You do now – please suck back that petulant lip," was the stern response and it drew a light smile.

"Ohmigod, it feels so high. I better wear panties tonight," Elaine joked. At least Mollie and the assistant laughed and appeared to believe it was a flippant comment.

Mollie stood back and only just heard Elaine say, "Green on me?"

"It looks lovely on madam," the assistant said. "Your complexion is light olive, your eyes are dark and you hair is dark. Perfect. You daughter knows best, believe me."

Only then did Mollie realize why Elaine was relating to her so well; she was in the process of being 'adopted'. Mollie flushed and felt an emotion rising that's she couldn't remember feeling for a great many years – a childhood memory that she'd recalled standing over the grave at her mother's burial. She turned away to recover, dabbing at her eyes.

"I'll take it and please select a black one same length but some silver beading or thread in the bodice is you can find it. Thank you for being so patient with me."

"Please come with me, madam. I have a choice of five that fall into those requirements."

As they left the store Mollie asked, "Nervous?"

"A little. I was wondering if you could come early this evening to be with me when I walk down the stairs with a dress above me knees."

"Don't exaggerate," Mollie said, taking Elaine's arm. "Your new dress length is three inches below the knee. I won't need to be there. Wear your hair up and apply extra blusher and none of them will notice your dress length until they see you back-on and by then it will be too late for comment."

"I wish."

"Wish and it will happen."

Elaine laughed and Mollie felt her arm being pressed, making her feel so happy.

The restaurant meal went well and although Gary was not far from being mute as a conversationalist. He focused on Mollie more than anyone else and Mollie and Elaine and probably Maureen noted that. Looking directly at Mollie, Maureen made a general announcement. "I had my first refresher driving lesson today and made an appointment to have my eyesight retested on Thursday. I am determined to become a safer driver."

Elaine raised her glass and called for a supportive toast to Maureen.

"Whoever has persuaded you to do that?" Stephen asked in surprise.

"Did I raise you to be a moron?" he mother snapped and Stephen lost his confused look when Elaine, sitting beside him, pointed to Mollie. Stephen acknowledged Mollie with a wink.

"Has anyone any objection if Mollie and I become more than friends?"

Everyone appeared slightly stunned, especially Mollie, at that unexpected outburst. There was silence until Maureen said, "Why do you think we'd object to the inevitable Gary?"

"Because she wasn't handpicked for me."

"Are you sure about that?" replied his grandmother.

All eyes now turned on Maureen and it was Elaine who broke the silence.

"I'd be delighted if that were to happen. Stephen?"

He responded instantly. "It's all right by me. Did the guys in auto and injury give you a hard time Mollie? By the way, HR and Stanley went over your track record with me late this afternoon. We agreed you record is impressive enough to place you on track to achieve associate status."

Mollie appeared to be struck dumb.

Gary raised his glass. "A toast to Mollie – well done Mollie." 

"Well done Mollie," the family chorused and then laughed as Mollie gave her very humorous account of her reception from the guys in auto and injury.

As they gathered outside the restaurant Mollie said, "Good night everyone."

"We'll take you home," said a very mellow Stephen.

"No, it's fine. It's just a short cab ride."

"Let them see where you are living," Gary said. "It will give my family a better perspective of you."

Sighing, Mollie said, "Yes, you're quite right Gary."

"This way," Stephen said, looking at Mollie curiously. They noisily piled into the Cadillac DTS.

"No, not the hotel strip dad, take the next left."

"But that's..."

"Yes dad. Mollie arrived by train into the poorer part of the city and had no compunction about crossing the street and booking into the nearest boarding house. I'm accepting it's what you see is what you get with Mollie. No pretence. I guess she was not loaded with money when she arrived and is waiting for her inheritance."

"Is that true Mollie?"

"He guessed that last bit Stephen, but it's how it is."

"I'll give you an advance."

"Thank you Stephen but I secured a bank loan on the guarantee of the executor of my mother's estate. I now have money in abundance."

"Mollie, you should have said," Maureen choked. "We all just assumed...you project so confidentially and present so beautifully."

"Hush Maureen, it's fine and you weren't to know. My mother wanted to die at home and I paved the way for her, taking out a loan and purchasing very expensive equipment and medical care to allow her to survive out of hospital. My brothers supported the loan charges and ongoing costs until I graduated and then immediately cut their cash flow and my two sisters refused to help. I had the option of going to Court to force my family to share the costs or doing it alone. I decided on the latter because I didn't want my mother put through the wringer before a court order could be granted and applied. She died believing the whole family was supporting her and that's what I wanted. My inheritance comes as an insurance policy and payment falls outside probate and I've been advised will be transferred to my bank account this Thursday. Well here we are, that's where I'm living, fifty yards down on the right. I move to an apartment tomorrow – I guess one would say on the right side of town, the very right side of town actually."

"It's a cool story and if Mollie rises to become a star, as I'm certain she will, perhaps one day she'll write a book and call it Mollie from Montana and it will become a film."

Stephen, Elaine and Maureen only half-heard what Gary was saying. They were gazing at the decrepit-looking three-level wooden building, paint peeling but cheerfully lit.

"God Mollie or perhaps you should be dubbed Cinderella," Elaine sighed. "Escort her safely across the street Gary."

"I've already gotten that covered mom," Gary said, jumping out of the front passenger's seat.

The family watched Gary lead Mollie across to the entrance porch to the boarding house. As Gary bent slightly to kiss the cheek of his new friend, Elaine sobbed, "Oh that darling girl. I want you two to do everything you can to help her."

"We've done that," Maureen said. "She is now is back in the system. It's now over to Mollie. If we attempted to interfere from here on it would not only be unfair to others at her level but it could make us offside with Mollie."

"I agree with you mom," Stephen said. "She's going to make it with Gary and with her career Elaine, believe me. That young woman is unstoppable."

"Mollie's moving into the apartment I purchased for Gary."

Stephen reacted as if he'd been shot. "Oh Elaine, how could you> It could wreck her chances of getting Gary on track."

"Stephen, we discussed that so don't under-estimate Mollie." 

Maureen agreed Mollie appeared to have Gary under control but said there should be no more interference from Elaine.

"I've already started lightly mothering her and I'm not about to stop," Elaine said defiantly. Maureen said that was irrelevant to Mollie's mission.

Stephen turned the conversation. "Elaine, your instant switch on to Mollie is quite astonishing and obviously she's responding to you. So that's why your new dress is shorter, your makeup is different and your hair is up? Well, who am I to complain. You always have had great legs."

"Oh you two, spare me," Maureen said in mock dismay. "There's no need to carry on like teenagers."

Gary returned to the front seat. "What's up, why the grins?"

"You father has confessed he's noticed a change in me this evening."

"Yeah, I did too and you still have great pins for an older dame mom. I guess it's Mollie's influence? I feel she is going to be good for me. Have you guys noticed her legs?" 

They drove off in silence, each person in deep thought.

Ready for bed, Mollie reviewed her day. Her phone went and he face lit when she noted who was calling.

"You looked lovely this evening. Did he notice?"

"Yes and I found they all did. The gross comment from my son was I have great pins for an older dame."

Mollie giggled. "So no adverse reaction?"

"No."

"I suggest you wear something sexy to bed."

"Um Mollie?"

"Yes?"

"Um..."

Mollie broke the silence. "Is it you suspect he's playing around?"

"Yes."

"Oh dear, that's a crappy thought. But you've decided to say nothing?"

"Yes."

"Good girl."

Perplexed Elaine asked, "Am I hearing you right?"

"Yes, I would hate it happening to me but it does happen and there's not a lot one can do about it. I believe the best option is to ignore it and try not to allow it to wreck your own life."

"What, keep smiling and wear something sexy to bed tonight?"

Mollie laughed. "And here was I thinking you were a dumb broad."

"Mollie, that's cruel."

"We're dealing with life here Elaine. Didn't someone write the most satisfying fucks are to be had at home?"

"I wouldn't know but it sounds very crude."

"Elaine, tonight you have the choice: Deny yourself or go after it."

"Mollie, this is becoming very personal. I'm not sure I approve."

"You do but don't quite know it yet. Goodnight Elaine."

"No Mollie, wait. Stay talking to me."

"Goodnight you lovely lady. Perfume up a bit and wear something sexy. Goodnight."

Mollie snapped her phone shut, smiling.

* * *

Drained and still panting slightly and hearing his wife moving around in the bathroom, bathwater running, Stephen King thought what on earth had that been all about? Elaine had come to bed in something flimsy, a breast hanging out and smelling as if she'd tipped a bottle of French perfume over herself. She'd flopped into bed, pulling a sheet over her and turned her back on him. She yawned and murmured good night, not seeking the usual cuddle and kissing him before saying some like "Good night lovely man.' 




Mollie from Montana Ch. 03



Stephen had switched off the light and lay on his back staring up to the ceiling that of course he couldn't see. He began thinking of some of the great nights of athletic activity they'd had in that very bed when he felt his pecker rising. He touched it. It greeted his warm hand enthusiastically, swelling. He thought why waste it so turned into Elaine, draping an arm hopefully over her stomach. She pulled his hand away – at first he thought in rejection. But no, she clasped it over a boob and imprisoned his hand.

Stephen held his breath, waiting for her next move but she lay listless and he couldn't hear her breathing. What was this? He moved his fingers and hit a brick. Actually it was a nipple, hard as frozen rubber. He tweaked it...and wham! Elaine turned and heaved up on to her knees, tossing the bedclothes back, straddled him and the next thing he knew had her lips around his erection.

Was this Elaine!

She shuffled her butt back up over his face and although the room was dark something dripped on to Stephen's neck, indicating a moist pussy was hovering. All he had to do was to lift his head.

He lifted his head, greatly interested.

Stephen heard Elaine climbing into the bath and thought of the difference between the two women. Tonight Elaine had looked younger and more vivacious than she'd looked for quite a long time and in bed over the past twenty or so minutes had behaved like a tigress. He compared that behavior to his lady friend (mistress) Bernice who was almost eight year's Elaine's junior. Over recent months Bernice had put on weight and complained about that while eating bigger meals. She no longer liked playing tennis with him and refused to race in the pool like she used to. Sex with Bernice had also taken a bit of a dive because she now preferred to stay with Missionary, complaining that her back hurt in most other positions. She was lazy and looking more like her aged Italian mother – a little ugly.

Deciding that he'd been rather neglecting Elaine who remained, in essence, just like the charming lover he'd married, Stephen thought Elaine really had it all over Bernice, especially now his lady friend's ardor was cooling. Tonight Elaine had been on fire.

Stephen got out of bed, tapped his cock up a little to a more respectable size and went into the bathroom. He grunted, "Mind if I get in with you? Delight fired across his wife's face. He couldn't remember seeing that look on her face for quite some time.

"Yes darling, please do."

He pushed the tap spout aside and looking at her glistening wet breasts felt his cock stir.

As he turned and faced Elaine, she focused on his cock, now at least at quarter-mast.

"Oooh, do you think you could get that up again? I'd like to go another round." 

She giggled. Yes, giggled.

He slid down and she moved to make room for him as she'd done over the years, although no much in recent years as there'd been fewer exhibitions of such closeness.

She reached for his cock and said, "Here – let me wash my mess from this dear guy."

Stephen felt his face redden and he said, almost shyly, "I don't regard it as mess" and was rewarded with a gentle squeeze. He brainstormed and the thought came to him like a lightening strike.

"Would you like to go to Florida before the real rush begins and perhaps cruise into the Caribbean?"

"A cruise?" she shrieked, clambering up with difficulty, which was understandable, and climbing on to him.

To be Continued



Mollie from Montana Ch. 04



Chapter 4

Next morning when Mollie was packing to depart by the agreed time with her landlady at 10:00, she was drawn by a knock on her door. In pushed energized Elaine who appeared to have undergone of makeover. The radiant older woman waltzed the startled Mollie twice around the tiny room and then pinned a red rose to Mollie's polo shirt and gave her a sizzling kiss on the lips.

"Are you drunk?"

"No, just out of my tree," Elaine burbled. "We've fallen into love again. You were spot on with your advice."

Mollie laughed but cautioned Elaine not to over expect.

"I know, I know," Elaine said, delighted to be focused on sex again. "This morning I saw the old look back in his eyes. I want you to work on me more. I know he found me appealing last night because I looked and acted younger and I excited him. I know we are the same people but we both are capable of stimulating each other. The sex was great -- fantastic in fact -- but we were also exchanging feelings. He's promised to take me on a Caribbean cruise."

"What?"

"Yes."

"Oh how exciting. He's thinking second honeymoon."

"Oh God, you think so? I was only hoping so."

Mollie hugged her. "Right, I'm taking you shopping. You need a whole new wardrobe and I'm not talking cruising here, I mean to keep his pecker up."

They hugged, giggling.

"I really mean keeping his interest up home life and you. You need your hair remodeled and some expert tuition on makeup although I must say you appeared to have really worked on it today."

"I also suggest you call in a home décor consultant and work on upgrading Stephen and..."

"Mollie, please slowdown. Today is devoted to you -- I'm here to help you pack and to look at the inventory in the apartment because there is a heap of stuff you'll need to personalize your living space. Then we go shopping."

"But what about you?"

"Mollie, whatever we do about me not a helluva lot is going to change. I recently turned forty-nine and have been married to Stephen since I was nineteen, just on six months before Gary was born. Yes, I can see you are not shocked because you're showing no surprise."

"Well I did learn you were not yet fifty."

"True and it's also true that because Stephen and I have been married thirty years not a lot will change but if we manage to make a few tweaks stick then I'll be delighted, so having a consultant describe how she can change our bedroom into an Arabian Nights boudoir will be a waste of time and money."

"But I wasn't meaning that. I haven't seen your bedroom but can imagine it's even more feminine than the rest of the décor of your home."

"What are you talking about?"

Mollie took a deep breath. "Try to understand what I'm saying. I haven't seen the area where Gary lives but apart from Stephen's study nowhere else I've seen in your home and even outside gives clues that males also occupy the space."

Elaine slumped on to the edge of the bed looking horrified. "W-what are you saying?"

"What I am attempting..."

"It's all right Mollie. I know what you said. It's just that my mind didn't want to accept it."

"I can understand that. I suggested a consultant thinking he or she might have a gentler way of nudging you if they were honest enough to deliver on that."

"Oh God, have I become a freak?"

"It appears you do stay home a lot. You will have become bored and perhaps with the best of intentions kept thinking and doing things to make your home appear more homelier."

"You believe that?"

"Yes."

"Then I'm not an over-zealous homemaker?"

"Well, actually..."

"Don't say it. I've hit the button, right?"

Mollie smiled. "I have a few things to put into that suitcase and then we are out of here."

"Good, let's go out for late breakfast. I took up Pilates a few months ago but decided to skip class this morning. A hearty breakfast..."

"After Pilates. I'll wait outside for you."

Looking at her watch Elaine smiled triumphantly. "I haven't time to go home and change."

Mollie looked at her sternly. "Off we go. We must keep your body in shape and you looking top shelf. You take those two suitcases and I'll finishing packing and will be straight down. Your fitness center will sell tights."

Elaine sighed and picked up the two suitcases and looked at the larger one on the bed.

"God, is this all you have in the world?"

"And it appears you and your family," Mollie smiled softly. "I should consider myself blessed, don't you think?"

Eyes dilating, Elaine picked up the two suitcases and said huskily that her car, a black Mercury Sable, was just beyond the entrance on the left. She'd leave the trunk up.

After brunch -- it was too late for late breakfast -- the two women spent most of the remainder of the day together. At a homeware store, after Elaine had been handed back her credit card and she and Mollie stood and watched two guys begin taking out the boxes to fill the trunk and back set of Elaine's car, Elaine felt a soft hand slip into hers and a shy sweet voice say, "I'm ready to love you as my stepmother if you'll let me."

Gasping, Elaine turned and hugged the younger woman and buried her lips against Mollie's neck, kissing her as if Mollie were a child. "Yes, yes. And am I permitted to treat you as the daughter I've never had? You've grown on me so quickly and so totally." 

"Yes, please do that. Oh I do love you so much."

Elaine slowly released Mollie. She hadn't meant that kind of love, had she? Slowly she lifted her gaze to meet Mollie's and her panic subsided somewhat and disappeared completely as the sweet young thing said, "The reality is I lost my own mother on the day of that dreadful accident -- she was never again emotionally like she was when she and dad left home that fateful morning. It was a Sunday and two hours later the dreadful news came. Within a month I thought I wouldn't feel the need for that kind of love again, that is until I began to get to know you."

Elaine watched incredibly as the kind and always resolute face of Mollie puckered and the tears gushed. Mollie capable of crying? Elaine pressed forward and they were in a deep hug again.

"I'm a bit emotional. Are you all right to drive?" Elaine sniffed.

"Yes, but only just. I'm still coming to grips that was my inside bubbling like a baby. I never cry -- I screamed and screamed when told dad was dead and mom might live for only a few hours. Neither at dad's funeral I didn't weep, nor at mom's and I knew behind my dark sunglasses people would be thinking I was a hard-nosed bitch who didn't love my parents. I think it was just my reaction to trauma, that I'm a natural-born survivor."

Elaine opened the passenger door and looked across the car roof. "I've always known two of the great experiences a woman can have is to have a guy hit you in the gut with that special look and for the first time to be fucked totally legless."

They fell into the car laughing helplessly.

When recovered sufficiently Elaine wheezed, "For your list you can add having a really decent cry while to my list I'm adding the miracle of finding I have a daughter."

Reaching for Elaine's hand Mollie said, "We are good for each other Elaine, let us never forget it. Oh, before I forget, I think it would be a good idea if we don't tell anyone of this special bond that exists between us. They mightn't understand or feel they can accept it. Those closest to us will learn of it eventually."

"You are the wise one Mollie. I'm in agreement. I know Stephen wouldn't understand, Maureen might not accept it and I'm uncertain about my son's reaction."

"Ah, very perceptive."

"And it's what you thought, isn't it?"

Mollie didn't reply but she squeezed the hand in her palm. "This is a cute car -- how do we get the music on and the moon roof open?"

"Oh, I really don't know, I don't use them."

Mollie powered up a quickly found out about the music system and how to operate the roof.

"My hair will be blown about."

"Do you have a comb?"

"Yes. Oh Mollie."

"This is all about getting you to adjust to today's world, the real world Elaine. Tomorrow we get you hair cut, reshaped and highlighted and after lunch we get started on your new wardrobe."

"Oh Mollie."

"You don't want to turn fifty before Stephen notices you again, do you?"

"Oh Mollie -- how can I keep up with you?"

"You'll manage," Mollie said, driving away.

"What kind of car will you buy -- and it will be pink I suppose."

"Yuck. Not I'll hunt around for a pre-owned Rav4 -- black I think like this car. There are too many pale colors around -- every fourth or fifth car you see is either white or silver. Want to tell me about last night -- be as lurid as you wish."

"Mollie, oh God. I've rarely talked to anyone about sex."

"Well, hello world. You better start now. I'm more interest to hear about what we did to turn his button on, what you did -- tell me nothing about what he did. In particular I want to know what sensations did you felt and what were your thoughts."

"Oh Mollie. Do we have to do this?"

"I'm your make-believe daughter Elaine. You are not required to do anything I say and I never want to bully you. But I will apply a little kick-ass pressure to push you from your comfort zone."

There was a pause and then Elaine began her narration about last night. 

* * *

Stephen had scratched his balls twice and grinned, thinking about last night. Some very lewd pictures danced around in his head. Three times early he'd thought about making the call. This time he did it.

The unenthusiastic voice answered, "Hello Stephen."

"Er, hi. Bernice, I'm wondering if it would be okay if I didn't call on you for a while?"

"Oh," she said, voice sounding a little more interested, "Getting a little tired of me huh?"

Well, there it was -- the opportunity to duck for cover or to bravely front up.

"Now that you mentioned it..."

Bernice cut the call.

Stephen looked at his phone in astonishment. He's never anticipated it would be that easy. She still might be back to be paid off but so what? He'd dreaded calling her but had done that and it was over quickly and so far painlessly. He called in his PA and told her he'd be leaving for home early today -- at 5.30. He asked her to have a dozen red roses sent to his house to be handed across at precisely 6.30 to Mrs Elaine King -- "Make sure they write down the name Elaine. I don't want mother thinking they are for her."

"Yes Stephen, been a naughty boy have you?"

He grinned at Dinah, told her to mind her business and switched to look at her chest. He knew her boobs well, playing with them into the night when he went on business trips when Dinah was required to accompany him for business reasons and Elaine decided not to go with them for whatever reason. Although apparently not promiscuous, Dinah appeared to have decided having sex occasionally with the boss was part of her responsibilities in holding down such a premier position and even more pertinent she was married to a man not particularly interested in sex. 

* * *

Later that afternoon a guy very interested in sex called Mollie.

"Hi Gary, how's it going?"

"Fine actually. We've been told you start here Monday morning."

Mollie laughed and she hadn't been notified.

"Have you checked your phone messages?"

"No -- oh of course."

"There will be one from Stanley's PA Irene asking you to contract her. But don't bother replying. I'll take the hiring confirmation home and give it to mom. She phoned earlier and said she had a great day with you and will be with you tomorrow as you'll be cutting her hair."

"Something like that."

"I was wondering if you'd like to join us in the department at 5.30 tomorrow night for drinks. It's our turn to host the managing partner, which is dad of course and..."

"Gary, please listen. I need to tell you something that might blight our friendship."

"Okay, shoot."

"My brain tells me not to say anything but my heart says that is wrong. Your mother and I have become buddies and the apartment she helped shift me into today, and which I shortly begin to pay a monthly rental, is the apartment she bought for you."

There was a silence.

"Gary?"

No answer.

"Gary are you there?"

"Yes, that came as rather an emotional overload. Why did you accept her offer?"

"Because she inspected the apartment I'd found and was not impressed. She said she knew a much better apartment and I liked it and she said I could have it for the monthly rent I was prepared to pay for the other apartment. I said no, that would mean me paying below market value and they she told me she'd purchased the apartment to give to you but you'd turned her down flat."

"That's true. So you two then conspired to come up with some little ruse?"

"We did not Gary!" Mollie had exclaimed so hotly she thought the outburst must have seared his ear."

"Okay, cool down. I accept that there was no conspiracy."

"Well Gary, if you want the truth. I said to your mother that I'd noted the cute way you sometimes look at me and that left me with the impression if I went slowly and I could help generate a thing between you and me. I told her that and she said she'd like that to happen. So I said I'd give it one month and if you were not prepared to enter into a rent-sharing deal with me as a roommate then I would be out of there unless she accepted market level rent from me."

"Oh, you said that; so what was her reaction?"

"You won't want to hear it."

"Oh yeah, then why did I ask?"

"She looked about to cry and said she didn't want me to leave and she liked me, was finding I was good for her and wanted me as a young friend. She then said you and I would be good for one another."

"Is that all?"

"Except I said I'd needed to relate to a guy and you appeared to come up to my expectations."

"And what are those?"

"I didn't elaborate. That ended discussion about you."

"Okay, I believe what you say but I'm unhappy about you and my mother discussing me like that. Come on Friday but don't expect me to be friendly."

"In that case I'm a no-show. Goodbye Gary.

"Wait!"

Gary swallowed audibly. "Look, I just had an instant rethink. You had no need to tell me what you've told me about mom and you. But you took the risk to come clean, knowing it might turn me off you."

"Correct -- are you an attorney?"

He laughed and for the first time Mollie relaxed.

"Please Mollie, come at 5:30 tomorrow. I'll be friendly. Mom has probably told you I'm far too sensitive, far too defensive."

"No, I think that was your grandmother. What should I wear?"

"The girls who work in the department always come tarted up the Friday the big boss visits us."

"Are you sure?"

"Absolutely."

"Okay but that term 'tarted up'. You must keep bad company," Mollie giggled, cutting the call.

* * *

Mollie climbed into bed, tired after unpacking cartons and laying out the day's purchases. She felt she was already failing in love with her apartment. She fell asleep but was awaken an hour later at 11:00.

"Hello darling, were you asleep?"

"Yes, but it's okay Elaine," Mollie yawned. "I'd rather have friends call than no one call because they couldn't decide on an appropriate time. Could I say up to 10:00 is okay?"

"Yes, of course. A dozen red roses arrived for me this evening -- from Stephen."

"Oh, how lovely."

"Indeed, and after dinner some friends dropped in and we've only just had sex?"

"Indeed? A groupie."

"What? Oh no," Elaine giggled. "They'd left more than thirty minutes ago and I've just gotten into the bath to remove sweat and other goo."

"Oh yuck."

Elaine went smoothly into the next thought. "I gather we are to dine tomorrow""

"Are we?"

"Yes. The boss visits each department once a year and then after an hour's drinking, he takes them out to dinner with partners. Attendance is not compulsory but most show up. It's at a stuffy old club but most people arrive a little liquored up and talking too much shop is frowned upon because of the presence of partners so a newcomer is picked upon to give an address. Probably it will be you."

"Me, am I invited?"

"I would think so. Gary announced at dinner he would be accompanied by you. Hasn't he said anything?"

"No, he just invited me to drinks."

"Oh men!"

They giggled.

"So just a sweat-shirt and jeans huh?"

"No darling, formal. It's a club. Besides, being the newcomer you'll be under inspection on dress, table manners, conversation skills and, if invited to speak, oratory skills. Wear something sexy but retain some modesty.

"Does that mean not low enough to expose my nipples?

They giggled and said goodnight.

To be Continued



Mollie from Montana Ch. 05



Chapter 5

Early next morning Mollie took a call. 

"Hi, are you Miss O'Rourke?"

"Yes."

"Our Sarah from Wynter Toyota is on the way to you to deliver your vehicle to you."

"But I haven't ordered a vehicle from you or anyone else."

"Miss O'Rourke, according to the information I have before me a Mrs Elaine King has taken a mini-lease on a low mileage three-year-old black Rav4 on your behalf. We ask that you return with Sarah to complete documentation and we will explains the steps you must take to uplift a driver's license for this state. Please bring your Montana driver's license, driving record if you have it and your Social Security number."

"Elaine, you bitch." Mollie giggled as she cleaned up the bench and raced off to get her documents, handbag and sunglasses.

Arriving with a huge smile brighter than the paintwork of the shiny vehicle, Sarah handed Mollie a note that read:

Lovely Lady from Montana. You've had such a hard life but now you have employment and a home. I have intruded to provide you with temporary transport. This leaves you free to concentrate on the other big outstanding need in your life – romance. I love you, Elaine.

The gregarious Sarah, aged about twenty-two, said, "I was in the office when Mrs King came in to specifically hire a black Rav4. She had a lovely smile but yours has out-shone it. The note obviously pleases you."

Without commenting Mollie handed Sarah the note to read and to her surprise Sarah sighed, "What a woman. I could see she was so happy signing up for the vehicle. Most of our clients look a little stressed or are outright grumpy."

"A lovely lady? She is indeed Sarah and this makes me think my arrival into her life has answered a little cry of help from her."

"What do you mean?"

"It's only a guess but perhaps she feels unfulfilled and has become aware that life is slipping by."

"Are you writer Miss O'Rouke?"

"No but please call me Mollie. "I'll disappoint you by telling you I work in an activity that has a rather dull image – law."

"What, as a sexy PA?"

"Something like that," Mollie smiled. "I believe I am to take you back to your office to complete documentation?"

"Oh yes, jump behind the wheel and I'll check you out. Why an Rav4?"

"I had a lovely blonde client in Wyoming who drives a Rav4. I used to look at her in it and think that is the vehicle for me. When Mrs King asked me what sort of vehicle I would buy I said a Rav4. End of story. She's hired this for me because she thinks I need time to settle in because it's the first time I've been out of Montana."

"You're come some ways from Montana. I understand was Mrs King is about. A client you say, then you are an attorney?"

"Yes but don't look surprised. There are heaps of women who are attorneys."

"Not in this state and not blonde and pretty like you."

"Do you write?"

They laughed and Mollie started the vehicle and drove off with ease.

"What kind of law do you practice?"

"I'm quite versatile in general law – business, personal and family law. I have just arrived here and have to wait until I am licensed in this state before practicing. In the meantime I'll be attached to an attorney."

"Mrs King?"

"Almost. You have a sharp mind Sarah. To her son actually. His father runs the practice."

"King and King Law?"

"Right on."

"Ah, so your associate will be the handsome but shy Gary King?"

Surprised Mollie said yes and asked did Sarah know him personally.

"Yes, he lectures our new writers' group occasionally."

"What on contract law?"

"Yes, as he does with other classes in the university outreach program."

They drove on in silence until Sarah said, "You didn't know that did you?"

"No. Actually I don't begin working with him until Monday."

"Well, well. And I bet Mrs King is his mother and somehow she sees you as a possible match for her son."

"Actually I made an impact on his grandmother and then lead to the job offer and now his mother has take a likening to me. But please Sarah..."

"I know; it's not my business."

"Thank you, you are right and I mean that kindly. This whole thing has rather run away on me. For some reason I've impacted on the whole family and I'm not sure why although I suspect timing plus circumstances has a great deal to do with it. Actually making an impact is not unknown to me because I have a lively mind. Answers just seem to leap at me and I fire with energy and focus when confronted by people in need."

Sarah nodded thoughtfully. "Our family and business attorney retired recently and we're not particularly happy with the replacement and have been talking about choosing someone else. I think we should change to King and King and would like you to and Gary to represent us."

"You mean Gary?"

"I mean Gary and you."

"Garry and I currently specialize in vehicle accidents and personal accident."

"Which means my father and I fall into your area and you've said you're familiar with business and family and personal law."

"Well yes. What business is your father in?"

"Motor vehicles and in rather a diverse and large way. Oh, I suspect you only know me as Sarah. Of course, everyone just knows me as Sarah the boss's daughter. My father Arnold Wynter owns Wynter Toyota. My mother heads administration while my father and I run the business – I'm general manager of pre-owned vehicles, vehicle servicing and our associated vehicle hire business. I happened to enter the office just as the panic was on to find someone to collect you in this vehicle."

"So Sarah-who-does-everything and is not afraid to get her hands dirty volunteered because she, aged twenty-two, knows everyone thinks she's too young and not skilled enough to handle the title general manager?"

"Age twenty-four actually. God Mollie, little wonder Mrs King was blown away by you. You're awesome. We're just up ahead on the left."

They turned into the main entrance and Sarah leaned over and hit the horn. A graying plump and pleasant-looking man getting out of a Toyota SUV, turned and waved. Sarah waved back and he started walking to them. Mollie lowered the window anticipating this would be dad.

"Good morning miss – hi baby."

"Dad, this is Mollie our new attorney. She's just joined King and King, Mrs King has hired this vehicle for Mollie and Mrs King doesn't even work at the practice. Mollie has to be licensed to practice in this state but her associate is Guy King and Mollie is awesome. Talk to her dad."

Mollie interjected. "Mr Wynter, please excuse Sarah. She seems to be a little excited this morning. Neither I nor King and King have any wish to be presumptuous and..."

"It's okay Mollie. Our Sarah is one of these hundred-miles-an-hour people, day and night. I know she's had an eye on that young King boy but he barely looks at her so she obviously thinks you are good enough for him and that tells me you are no wallflower yourself. Sarah, make a formal appointment for you and I to see Mollie and young Mr King midweek next week and we'll talk turkey. Who recruited you Mollie – Stephen or someone farther down the pecking order."

"Well, it didn't quite happen like that Mr Wynter. Just by chance..."

"I have a couple of clients waiting for me Mollie and must run. Who..."

"Mrs King senior."

Arnold Wynter looked sharply at Mollie and whistled. "I've known Maureen through my father for much of my life Mollie and never had know her to make a mistake. We'll just meet to discuss fee structure and if that is satisfactory will hand over our business to young Mr King on the condition that you become our prime attorney when you become licensed. My daughter needs good people around her she can trust when she takes over this business Mollie. I've learned to reply on Sarah's instincts. "

"Thank you daddy. Now shove off and earn your salary."

Mr Wynter grinned and gave his daughter an improper gesture with fingers and said goodbye to Mollie.

"My daddy is a little crude."

"And more than a little proud of his baby I should think."

"Correct again, Mollie. My older brother is an airline pilot and my older sister operates a cooking school. Dad raised me to be his successor when I became focused on cars from the age of age eight. By the way I'm younger than you but I have this feeling we'll become friends."

"Well, if that happens I'm sure I'll be pleased Sarah and as you probably can guess apart from the Kings there's no one else interested in me around here yet."

Mollie drove away and stopped 200 yards down the street to call Elaine to thank her. She then went shopping and bought a new dress, shoes and make-up and then drove almost back to the apartment to the hairdresser where she'd made an appointment the previous day.

The English immigrant combed Mollie's hair and circled her and then stepped back and said, " I can do more than just maintenance that what you booked in for. The appointment after you has been cancelled but this is no hard push. It's your decision."

"Oh, don't bother. A few others hairdresser's have tried to doll me up and failed so I no longer bother."

"Miss O'Rourke, please excuse my English English that can rather grate on American ears – but that's utter crap for a woman who appears to have more interest in her brain and ego than her hair and God, look at your finger nails."

"Well, I...oh dammit, give me the works."

"Pedicure as well?"

"Yes, why not?"

"Mary, get your butt over here and work on Miss O'Rourke's nails please. She's obviously a career-oriented executive so give her top-shelf treatment."

"Thank you Margo. I'm in your hands."

"Well Miss O'Rourke, although you Americans call anything light as being blonde, you are basically fair-headed, going from near blonde to light brown. I think we should retain this light brown topknot and then color the remainder all blonde – anything from honey blonde to ash blonde. What is your preference?"

"Er, honey blonde as it's not too far away from light brown and bone blondes are a dime a dozen."

"Good choice. But first reshaping."

"Er, I prefer it long as it is."

"So you don't have to attend to it much?"

"Um, yes."

"So we reword that and I say long and ragged?"

"Yes, long and ragged."

"Good girl. You have chosen what I would have recommended."

"Didn't you make that choice Margo?"

"I'd picked you for a clever executive Miss O'Rourke. Thank you for not disappointing me. I want the nails squared as much as you can on this visit Mary and I don't think Miss O'Rourke will be interested in extensions. I want the color ivory and if she disagrees please ignore her. Our client needs to be brought out of her time warp. I trust your dress for this evening is fashionable gray Miss O'Rourke?"

"Gray," Mollie said surprised. "A mid-metallic gray in fact."

"Oooh Miss O'Rourke, you exceed my expectations. Shoes to match?"

"Almost a perfect shade match in fact, without the metallic."

Margo said she'd noticed Mollie arrive in a Rav4. Hers was the white Rav4 on the other side of the parking lot. "So we have that much in interest."

"Perhaps even more than you are aware of," Mollie smiled. "Please call me Mollie. I have just moved into Sublime Apartments and noticed you drive in early last evening with a handsome dark-headed man sitting beside you."

"Yes, I have a studio apartment there. Welcome to Sublime. Did you think that was my father? "

"I made no effort to reach a conclusion."

"Spoken like a lawyer. Is that what you are Mollie?"

"Yes I am an attorney, newly arrived from Montana."

"Oh really. He's my stepmother's boyfriend. I sometimes invite him over when I feel horny and am between boyfriends."

"Oh, what an interesting arrangement."

"Is that approval or disapproval?"

"Absolute approval, you sound very clever."

"For a hairdresser?"

"I don't judge people by their occupation. But since you may wish to know, my cursory impression is you are very self-assured and your tone and manner suggest advanced education but please don't think badly of me if I'm awry."

"I have a degree in art history from Manchester University and have worked in ten occupations but returned to hair dressing because my mother and both grandmothers were hairdressers. After my mother died my daddy married an American and came to live here. I came to holiday with him but couldn't live in the same house because she is overly gushy conversationally. I lived in the apartments across the street from here and one day saw the notice that this saloon was for sale. Daddy purchased it for me and I have almost paid him back. My parents were living in Florida when I was born so I'm actually American although have lived most of my life in Manchester. Have you any idea where Manchester is Mollie – it is rare for me to find an America who has not traveled to know where it is?"

"Capital of Australia?"

"Oh Mollie. It's..."

"Just kidding. It's 150 miles northwest of London, I believe. It is called England's second city after London, was settled in Roman times and the River Mersey flows through the south of the city. It has two universities, is widely known for its arts and cultural activities and its famous Manchester United football team and, um, was the world's first industrialized city. Sorry about the Australian bit, I just love to tease."

"I can see that Mollie. Would you like to hang out with me occasionally?"

"Yes, Margo. By the way, what is your surname?"

"Hampton."

"Well Margo Hampton, what about early Sunday evening?"

"Shall we meet at your apartment, say 7;00 and walk until we find somewhere with a bar and no kids where they can take us for early dinner?"

"Yeah, great. Apartment 811D."

"Drat it Mollie – oh what a cow."

Mollie looked concerned and asked what was the matter.

Margo smiled thinly. "You're a D Mollie, out of my league."

"Don't be silly. This is America, self-styled land of the free. There is no class distinction in my mind between a resident of a Studio and any other size apartment. And you are wrong about me being a D, I'm actually a C-cup."

Margo offered a light chuckle at the humor but then frowned. "You probably haven't met your neighbors yet Mollie. Studio, A, B and C have their gym and pool at ground level whereas D residents have their gym and indoor pool on the roof with card access only and the pool roof closes when the outdoor temperature falls below 65 degrees."

Countering that, Mollie said, "All that means Margo is D residents pay through the nose for that privilege. It does mean we are branded on our forehead stating we are D-class residents."

Margo laughed but muttered they all but wore such a branding.

"Try not to think like that," Mollie urged. "In time no doubt I'll be your guest in your fitness center and pool just as you will be my guest in the D fitness center and pool. You'll notice no difference in my behavior wherever I am and I'll insist your behavior remains constant Margo otherwise I shall become a little cross with you. Airs and graces are principally in the mind so with a little psychological adjustment you will quickly readjust if that's what you want."

Margo said she'd welcome Mollie having that influence on her and smiled and nodded enthusiastically when Mollie asked could Margo tutor her on art appreciation.

"I feel we'll be great for each other," Margo said. "You appear completely without the bullshit that shrouds many people around here."

"You probably mean airs and graces or as those people would say, sophistication," Mollie giggled. "I see we have some work to do to refine your language a bit. You need to remember I, too, lack the so-called sophistication because I'm just a gal from Montana. But stay around and you'll see me modify to fit well into my new environment in all respects. But don't expect my spirit to take a whack."

To be Continued 



Mollie from Montana Ch. 06



Chapter 6

Mollie arrived for drinks a little late, figuring to be there just a little before Stephen and was spot on with her timing. Groomed and dressed superbly she made quite an impact.  

Gary hurried over and kissed Mollie warmly and that raised a murmur but nothing like the reaction when Stephen walked in a few minutes later and kissed her on both cheeks as if she and he were familiar with each other and she was a special guest. Mollie's new work colleagues including manager Stanley Jessop – if he did have any remaining doubt – were left with the clear impression that rather than just another addition to the team she was someone special, at least to top management.

Drawing Mollie aside Gary said, "You look sensational. You really are beautiful."

"Oh thank you Gary," Mollie said, eyes shining and daringly stole a kiss. 

Gary, touching his lips with the inside of his left index finger as if wishing to imprint the impression of Mollie's lips or else was almost unable to accept what just had happened, said, "Do you intend other members of staff to think there's something going on between us?"

"Frankly, I don't care Gary but if something does occur between us you'll know as you will have been the instigator."

Gary shuffled slightly and then looking manfully at Mollie said, "Do you mean...um...sex?"

"Oh Gary, I was thinking that word wasn't in your vocabulary."

Gary grinned and said she was such a tease and when asked did he find that acceptable, replied, "Oh Mollie" and she had to fight the impulse to hug him. He then lost his grin and asked had Mollie prepared her speech in case she was invited to address dinner guests.

"I won't be there because I haven't been formally invited."

Gary proved to Mollie he had a brain by catching her sly smile. He bowed and asked would she accompany him to dinner. She half curtsied and accepted.

"Have you prepared a speech?"

"No, I think quite well on my feet. I'll probably speak about feet."

Gary chuckled and said he was quite sure Mollie was going to be more than a handful. He glanced at her chest.

"To save you guessing think of me as being 36C. Being tall I carry that mass quite well, don't you think?"

Again lowering his hazel eyes to her chest, Gary said that disclosure was unexpected but very pertinent information to keep in mind. "In answer to your question, yes, your shape and carriage are first-rate and that means I'm impressed."

"I really like you Gary," Mollie smiled, unwilling to urge him to make a hit on her, anticipating that could frighten him off.

"I'd like to see them sometime." Gary then took her glass and was moving off to the bar before Mollie had time to react. She had felt as if she'd been hurled back six feet, such was the shock. She knew he'd meant he'd like to see her breasts bared, or did he? Had she missed some nuance that meant he didn't mean that at all? Now feeling a little horny Mollie hoped she'd find out, either way, very soon otherwise she could explode. She saw the somewhat aggressive Paul Rose, Stanley's deputy, coming towards her.

"Hello Paul."

"Oh hi Mollie. You look great washed up and now reveal a magnificent body in that tight dress."

Mollie asked in a very neutral manner: "I guess you are married Paul?"

His eyes dipped momentarily and he grinned, "Yes and well handled Mollie." 

"Who decides who the dinner speaker will be?"

Paul said Stephen. "But he's already told Stanley and me."

"Am I the choice?"

Paul squirmed. "Look Mollie, I'm afraid it's confidential at this stage. "

"Thanks Paul."

"For what?"

"If it wasn't me when I asked that you'd have told me."

Paul beamed at her in delight and looking towards the bar at Gary said, "Dig him out of his hole Mollie."

The restaurant was within walking distance and when the office party reached it partners were already in the private dining room sipping a cocktail or juice. Everyone noticed Elaine's enthusiastic greeting of Mollie and the two women complimenting each other. Those close enough heard Stephen say quietly to Gary, "Mollie is having a tremendous influence on your mother – just look at how she's dressed and her new hairstyle. She looks much younger."

Gary replied, "She's treating Mollie like a long-lost daughter dad. I think it's rather swell and Mollie is responding, whether or not she knows it. When together they act like real buddies."

Later in the evening Stephen called on Mollie to address the assembly. She was invited to speak for thirty minutes on any topic and it would be appreciated if she included some references to law.

My topic is Why Law? There is someone here tonight who calls me Mollie from Montana. I hope you all know where Montana is and if you think of cattle and horses and cowboys that's about right. But also think about a landscape of significant grandeur, a place where it's possible to live close to nature or where it's also possible to live in a city as a professor at a law school. 

I've lived most of my life on a ranch but left home for college and to continue on to law school. I then returned home, lived at home and practiced law for almost five years in our servicing town, working in the only law firm in that town because the town and hinterland wasn't large enough to support two law firms. Then I immigrated here. Why here? My mother had died and I wanted to get a long way from Montana and this is a long way from Montana. You people think of Acacia as being small but in the way perspective operates I view it as a large city and expect to take some time acclimatizing. I miss the wide-open space, the mountains, my horse and my rifle and know I will miss the extremes of weather. But what lies ahead of me are challenges that I'd never face in Montana so I'm happy to have arrived in my new world.

So, why law?

My career adviser at high school inadvertently planted the idea when she said it was surprising for a student as smart as I was – her words – that I didn't have a career in mind. She asked why had I said I wanted to be a rodeo queen. The adviser said if I achieved that status it would provide me with a year or so of minor fame but not a career. I was told to sit outside her office until I returned with my career choice written down. I sat beside another girl Mandy who was doodling and found I shared her predicament. I asked had she been back and she nodded, saying Miss Young had looked at her reconsidered career choice but told her to go outside and think again because Mandy wasn't smart enough to be an attorney. That switched a light on for me. Miss Young had alleged I was smart so I acted smart. I wrote down attorney and went back to Miss Young who all but hugged me when she read what I'd written. I went out and said to Mandy to write nurse and return to Miss Young. Mandy was out in less than two minutes, elated and said Miss Young had said Mandy would make a fine nurse. Mandy had a dollar in her pocket and gave it to me – I regard it as my first although unsolicited fee as a legal adviser. Mandy was in my intake at college and she is now a highly regarded biochemist. Well, I had said nurse but attorneys are not noted for their perception, are they?

I immediately began asking adults I knew about what attorneys did and chatting to some straight-talking people learned that words associated with attorneys included smooth-talkers, shysters, useless varmints, professional fee extractors, scumbags and then I spoke to one of my mother's friends, unaware that her husband was my parents' attorney. She said, oh they were people who'd studied and become successfully examined and registered to practice law to advise clients in matters of law and to represent themsuits. Her reply impressed me and I switched my interest back to law after having decided to go nursing after hearing about shysters and scumbags. I'm glad I did because I've never been great at the sight of free-flowing blood. 

Mollie then spoke of her representing some of her country clients in disputes in matters unlikely lawyers she was addressing would have experienced. They included the dynamiting of an illegally dammed waterway, a shoot-out over a boundary dispute, defending alleged rustlers, successfully prosecuting on behalf of a regional wildlife authority two teenagers accused of shooting protected eagles, prosecuting on behalf of the owner of a prized stallion who alleged a neighbor had introduced his mares to the stabled stallion and defending an injured farmer's wife in proceedings brought by another farmer's wife claiming she'd been forced into a fight using pitchforks by the defendant at 2:30 am; both had been drinking heavily and there were no witnesses.

She then spoke about her consuming passion in studying the history of law, battling to understand the complexity of law and the senses of triumph, frustration and failure experienced in working as an attorney. Mollie said she in entering the profession it had taken her quite some time to accept the truth in what she'd heard at the outset: the more you know the less you appear to know.

What I have come to know is that it is naïve if not dangerous to think that any piece of written law is absolute. I close to say I have found the most emotionally heart-wrenching cases I've had are battles over custody of children, particularly very small children and struggle unsuccessfully to concur with some of the awards handed down. I look forward to helping to represent King & King clients especially in road accident cases. I remind myself that even road accidents are not open and shut cases. For example, two vehicles colliding head-on and both over the center line. Attempting to establish the degree of negligence is almost frightening, especially in the absence of witnesses. However, I rest easy knowing in effect it is little different to a decision that awards custody to one parent over another. It's based on fair assumptions that perhaps some may prove incorrect but remedies are available and hopefully are sought in timely fashion. The gap between what we know and don't know is always there and we never know just how wide that unknown gap is. It is the process of trying to narrow that gap that I find so challenging as is the challenge of relentlessly trying to both update and expand my knowledge. Such challenges have addicted me to law and for that I go back to the very beginning and thank my high school career adviser Miss Young and fellow student Mandy Roberts.

Mollie returned to her seat to loud applause, knowing she hadn't qualified as an orator but content to know she'd spoken from the heart and her immediate work colleagues would have a better idea of who she was and that she appeared open to support.

"You were great Mollie," Elaine said supportively. "Very personalized, interesting and people around you will have a better idea of who you are."

"Thank you Elaine," Mollie said warmly. "I set out to lower expectation so I'll never be invited to speak again."

Stephen laughed and as Mollie went to sit down beside Gary he patted her butt and looked at her mildly but not possessively. That was the look she expected so she gently speculated should she crawl in under the table and unzip him to begin sending a rush of red blood through his veins.

Stanley came over and patted her on the back. Smiling, he said she'd done well and he was proud of her.

"Thank you Stanley," she said, briefly touching his hand that rested on her shoulder to indicate his comment was appreciated.

"We'll all be moving out to the bar now for coffee and liqueurs," Stanley said. "I invite you to accompany me – my wife Lucia has asked to be introduced."

"Yes sure, I'd like you to come with me Gary.

"Aw, do I have to?"

At that Gary sat up straight with a jolt and as he eased from his chair rubbing a shin and glared at his mother sitting opposite him. Looking innocently at Mollie, Elaine asked did she require a ride home.

"No thank you. Gary has offered to take me home in a cab," she lied.

Gary rose to the occasion. "Oh, so I did – ten days ago." That, of course, would have been when Mollie was preparing to leave Montana for the Great Unknown.

* * *

In the cab Gary said his mother had told him she'd rented a vehicle for a month or two to carry Mollie over until she figured out what kind of vehicle to buy. "Why didn't you drive here tonight?"

"I didn't want to limit drinking alcohol."

"Good girl, same here. I'll help you sort out a vehicle if you wish."

"Thanks but I probably know what I want. What would you have chosen for me?"

"Probably Volkswagen, a model like you that is high-revving, corners well and has a reserve of power and looks good."

"So that's what you think of me?"

He didn't answer directly. "I suggest the EOS roadster convertible."

"I prefer a Rav4."

"It's too chunky – the roadster is sleek and refined, just like you."

That comment raised Mollie's hopes. Perhaps she might get a cuddle and perhaps a breast massage? He was difficult to switch on. If only he would attempt to guess what she wanted him to do to her. Tempted to allow him to see her rubbing her breast she decided to become proactive and placed a hand on his mid-thigh. Gary grabbed her hand and trapped it, pushing his thigh firmly against her hand.

The cabbie drove under the entrance canopy and Mr Shy Guy said, "I'll see you to the door." As Gary held Mollie's door open she thrust a twenty bill at the driver and said, "Thank you, on your way. I'm the hirer."

Gary had heard her and as she emerged from the vehicle looked at her with a soft smile and made no effort to stop the cabbie driving off. As Mollie opened the entry doors with her card he asked, "Am I your prisoner?"

"Yes and stay all night if you wish." She then handed Gary the card – keep it, it's yours as I want you to be my favorite visitor."

"Thank you. Does my mother have one?"

"No, we break the rules if we hand out cards to non-residents."

"But I'm not a resident."

"That can always be changed, and soon. Do you find me sexy Gary?"

"Yes, a little. More than a little actually."

As Mollie went through the heavy glass doors she turned to turned and said, "I have this great desire to share my body with you Gary. There, I've said it. I've been burning to say it for three days. I'll feel nothing more than disappointment if you don't commit to me carnally Gary so nothing will change between us if you hang off me."

"Hang off?"

"Don't pluck me."

"Did you say pluck?" he grinned.

She just sighed.

Gary actually took Mollie's hand in the elevator and her reaction was as if he were fingering her pussy. Her heart raced. They rode the elevator silently and didn't move. Yet another great opportunity lost Gary, she whimpered soundlessly against clenched teeth while wondering if her hand in Gary's was perspiring. She felt like whacking his ass, bared of course, with a heavy sex manual. Perhaps she should buy him one of those as a present.

"This is classy," Garry said, looking at the beautifully tiled hallway and the quality prints on the walls under muted down lighting. "It is almost seductive."

Mollie was pleased he was confident enough to use the word and as she entered the apartment she dimmed the lights but felt obliged to add lamely, "The lighting in here is overly bright." You fool, she lamented. You are doing your best to ensure he remains sexually impassive. Act positively! She grabbed Gary's hand and led him out on to the balcony.

"The city actually looks attractive from this perspective and at night," he marveled.

Mollie swung into him and closed his mouth with a long kiss, remembered to keep her lips and teeth closed. He stayed locked against her, kissing as if he meant it, and made no attempt to pull away. 

"A drink?"

Gary nodded and followed her inside. Mollie felt a searing pain dart over her right butt cheek and then realized he'd swatted her. She heard him say, "I've been tempted to do that from the first time you turned and I saw your great ass."

Mollie's mind whirled. She had the choice of swinging around and pulling his hand on to her butt and kissing him or to laugh throatily and ask was there anything else he was keen to try or should she pour wine? She kicked off her shoes and moaned, "That hurt. Get the wine from the fridge while I get the glasses."

"I apologize, I had no intention of hurting you."

Mollie saw red. "Well you did asshole. Kiss it better!"

She turned to walk away but the asshole grabbed her one-armed and his other hand raised that side of her dress to her waist and she felt his lips hit the spot. The hand of his encircling arm was now groping her right tit. She struggled but he was two powerful. Her blood surged, inflaming her face and she discarded the thought of hooking her right leg up to crack against his balls just as quickly as it had arrived. That wouldn't do! Ah, so he was interested in sex? A very wet tongue slid across her sore flank and Mollie's eyes closed and she lost it, shaking into a long overdue release. Ooomph, she went again, temporarily blinded by flashing lights under her closed lids. She felt his hand round her hip and thought "Oh no, the crotch of my boy shorts will be soaking. His fingers reached her pussy lips and to her relief, although being amid dampness didn't pull away immediately.

"Have you blown?" he asked.

"Yes," she croaked. "It's been such a long time."

He laughed, released her and said they both needed a drink.

Almost two hours later Mollie waved Gary goodnight from the foyer as he entered his cab. She returned to her apartment now confident that she and Gary were bonding and he'd even said he'd think about moving in with her provided the second bedroom could become his domain. She'd said yes and reacted delightedly. They'd not become carnally involved but her impression was they both knew that was coming. Gary had spent the remainder of the time with her, cuddling and drinking. He'd cupped her breast but had not gone after it and although she'd worked a hand under his shirt she kept away from his zip, knowing he was a guy who preferred to set the pace and she'd have to learn to be patient. Mollie could go after some after guy and sex would be on tap, but what was the point? She wanted the guy to be Gary.

* * *

Gary arrived in his bedroom still with the half-erection he'd carried for most of the later evening. Mollie was so sexy that the air around her seemed almost on fire. He'd known such women existed but had never been close to one so far as he knew. He wondered if his mother had been like that when she was younger – those two seemed so alike. The problem with Mollie was she was asking him for it instead of waiting patiently. He'd had girlfriends since his mid-teens and continued to be in their company but he'd had sex with only a handful of them. He could take or leave sex as to him it was not what friendship was about. In recent nights, however, he'd masturbating thinking only of Mollie and that was rather unusual. Normally he did it after watching an adult video or after a girlfriend had said no after he'd been triggered for some reason and went after it.

Feeling Mollie's damp cunt through her panties had astonished him. The conclusion was she was over-sexed. He was surprised he hadn't felt repelled; in fact his fingers had been twitching to slip through the side of her panties and explore her.

Gary groaned and getting into bed slid a hand around his cock that had turned into a straining boner. He knew he'd been tentative with Mollie from the outset but tonight in a moment of passion he'd felt more that obliged to kiss the sore cheek of her butt. The skin was firm yet somehow soft and surprisingly fragrant that encouraged him to lick it and he was experienced enough to know that her galloping emotions had sent her into orgasms. However he'd thought a woman need something inside her cunt or at last rubbing over it and tapping her clit to get off like that. Now he had a new problem: was he capable of satisfying Mollie sexually? Well, he'd have to fuck her to find out, wouldn't he?




Mollie from Montana Ch. 06



Another worry was Mollie seemed so perfect. So what was wrong with her – what where her fears and shortcomings? Yeah, time would tell. He'd been very tempted to nail Mollie on the sofa, several times in fact. He could smell her arousal and knew he'd only have to tap inside a knee and her legs would fly open. It was too early for that. So he'd cupped a breast to signal that he was interested and hopefully she'd know he was a slow-burner.

The intimacy in their conversation had pleased him. They discussed their strengths and weaknesses and generalized about their expectations. He was impressed that not once had she spoken about this thing of 'turning on his lights', an expression his mother was now using when they were alone and talking about Mollie. Gary knew his mom had fallen in love with Mollie and wondered had they had sex yet or soon would. He couldn't remember his mother being so passionate about a person outside her own family. Obviously she regarded Mollie as some sort of guru, for herself as well as for her son. Was his mom in danger of losing it? Gary sighed, know it was quite the reverse – his mother appeared to have been 'switched on'. He wondered about Mollie and his mother having girls' sex and at the thought of being invited to join them, with his mind filling with two gaping pussies, he blew his load before he had time to grab the hand towel. Oh crap!

The day dawned fine the next day, Saturday, and Mollie messed around unpacking more of the bits and pieces she and Elaine had purchased and then she went out for a bagel and coffee and returned, wondering how to fill her day. Elaine called and said the men had decided to go lake fishing and Mollie accepted an invitation to call around for lunch. She found Elaine beside the pool, the top of her swimsuit around her waist.

"Hi, you look lovely and relaxed."

"Hello, oh damn," Elaine said, lurching upright to pull up her swimsuit.

"Leave it down. It's fine. I've seen plenty. God, I hope I retain uplift like that when I get to your age."

"Not growing big helps, and having the right genes," Elaine laughed and the laughter turned to a high-pitched cackle when the visitor said she didn't wear her jeans that high.

"May I strip off – I put my bikini on just in case we located poolside."

"Yes, but take the top off otherwise mine comes up."

An hour later they went inside for lunch, a salmon salad already prepared, served with bread and fruit juice. Neither woman touched the bread.

"Now you'll see sag," Elaine had said as they sat.

"Not much worse than mine. Does he like them?"

"Well, surprise, surprise. Just recently he's been slobbering all over them. It's good to have him back."

Mollie smiled and said Elaine had lovely skin.

"I try to limit exposure to the sun. This is why I was exposed today because late spring, early summer is a great time to build just a light tan. My breasts have stayed remarkable free of ageing signs and the skin remains subtle. You may feel my skin if you wish."

"Yes, why not. Where can I touch?"

"Anywhere, be my guest."

Elaine, sitting at the end of the table, turned around in her chair and Mollie went to her and ran both hands softly down the side of Elaine's face and down and under the sides of her breasts.

"Do your nipples respond to contact?"

"Yes, touch them and see. They are a little aroused already."

Heads down the two women watched closely as Mollie worked softly over and around the nipples. "There you go," she said, giving the swelling nipples a tweak. "Thank you."

"Mine have firmed a little through the contact."

"Yes, so I've noticed."

They chatted away and later when Elaine returned with coffee she asked, "Mollie, may I ask you something?"

"You've asked without feeling the need to seek permission up to now?"

"It's something personal, very personal."

"You want to know if I shave?"

Startled, Elaine said yes,

"I did once for a guy who pleaded. As he went down on me like a champion and more frequently than any other boy friend I've had, I obliged. But after he left I let the hair grow and returned to trimming."

"Why do you trim?"

"I look a bit hairy if I don't – it's quite brown down there. I also think its neater and feels more hygienic. Are you thinking of doing one or the other?"

"Yes."

"Would you like me to do it for you?"

Elaine casually scratched under an armpit and looked out at the pool. "The truth is I brought this up in the hope you would offer. I lacked the courage to ask you outright, afraid you might be offended."

"It's fine Elaine, I'll shave or clip your vulva for you."

"That's lovely of you. I'll have a shower first."

"Okay but don't mess around with power and fragrance. It's unnecessary with me. I'm a ranch girl remember, real earthy."

Elaine stretched out after setting out the equipment for Mollie. Mollie went to drape a hand towel over her client's pussy but Elaine swept it out of the way. "I'm relaxed, although it's a long time ago I had a young woman touch me down there, at college."

They laughed and Mollie said the experience wasn't unknown to her.

The trim was completed without mishap and after looking at the result in the mirror Elaine appeared well pleased. She kissed Mollie. The kiss was unhurried, full on the month, and as they drew back they looked down to see their breasts still touching. They then parted completely and Elaine suggested going for a swim. With the hostess completely in the nude Mollie diplomatically slipped out of her bikini bottom before slipping into the pool. After they went out to a movie and a meal as the men were not due back till late.

Mollie went home feeling elated that her relationship with Elaine had extended satisfactorily but thought they should not become too intimate because it was unlikely Stephen and Gary would find that acceptable. She'd purposely left her phone at home and listened to the calls that included one from hairdresser Margo Hampton. There was another call from vehicle dealership executive Sarah Wynter suggesting they go out for dinner on Sunday evening. She called Margo.

"Hi, thanks for confirming dinner tomorrow evening. Another young woman I've just met also called and left a message inviting me out for Sunday evening dinner."

"So will you go out twice or does one of us miss out?"

"I wonder if the three of us could team up?"

"Yes, why not providing she is not bringing her guy."

"She didn't mention a guy."

"Then perhaps he gets his treat tonight. Call her and suggest a threesome. Who is she?"

"You probably won't know her unless you do her hair – Sarah Wynter."

"I don't do her hair yet but know her from when I purchased my vehicle if she is Sarah Wynter of Toyota."

"That's the one."

"Oh, lovely woman. She is younger than us but acts with maturity. Go for it." 

They met, jelled with ease and had a great time. If Margo was pea-green with envy at the size of Mollie's apartment compared with Margo's smaller one bedroom unit in the same building she didn't mention it. Margo just oohed about everything and smiled a lot. That restraint from one so outspoken endeared her to Mollie. Equally satisfying Sarah proved her openness and elegant charm were consistent, rather than a front used to pitch at buyers and aggrieved clients seeking satisfaction. Because of that Mollie set out for the first day at King & King Law happy and feeling a stronger person now that she'd acquired two real friends, or at least both exhibited that promise.

To be Continued



Mollie from Montana Ch. 07-11



 MY APOLOGIES to readers who found chapters posted in the wrong order. When I first submitted to Literotica it was possible for a submitter to retrieve stories/chapters while they were in the 'Pending' stage but that facility is no longer available. I attempted to have the wrongly submitted chapter withdrawn but it appears there was a foul-up and I received back what was an automated reply - SO, too late. Well, here are the remaining chapters - perfectly presented, I hope! As for a couple of people concerned that soft Mollie appears to be hardenING, well I'm sorry. This wasn't written as a fairy story and there is a saying, people do change. However, with the chapters now in correct order perhaps everything will unravel - Egmont Grigor 

*

Chapter 7

When Mollie entered the road accident and vehicle accident injury department Gary was already in the glassed cubicle that really was too small to be called an office. An extra desk had been delivered and he was attempting to rearrange the furniture, chairs and filing cabinets in such a way to allow other people to enter and sit. He was grumpy.

"Hi, I'm almost in a sweat because of you. Whoever decided two people can operate in this space needs their head examined."

Hello grumpy. This is Mollie doing her best to fall in love with you. Why not greet me with a smile and hug me and welcome me to my first day at the office? She smiled but was ignored.

"This will not do. The deputy manager's office is larger, I'll have to tell him to swap and if he won't I'll ask Stanley to make him shift."

"No, that would be an ill-considered move if I may say so," Mollie beamed.

Gary snored like an irritated bull, but was ignored.

"Forcing Paul Rose to move would upset him and be interpreted as a brazen attempt to rearrange pecking order as he has the larger office because he's Stanley's deputy."

"I have no time for office politics."

"Don't you Gary? As a servant of the law you should have time for everything and everybody."

Mollie felt the heat of Gary's glare and realized she had antagonized the bull. She shut her mouth and stepped back to the doorway. Even that earned a glare. She stood patiently knowing he'd be the first to crack.

Gary rubbed the back of his neck and said, "Can you suggest the solution? I have no wish to have you working outside the office."

"My role is to work alongside you Gary so I'll be working nowhere else. Have you had breakfast?"

"No."

"Well you run along and fetch us coffee and bagels while I have a think about this. Smaller desks would work better but we need desks this size to spread out files and reference material."

"How can you fix the problem?"

"With my brain Gary as well you could with yours if you gave it a chance. Run along." Mollie moved aside and Gary, snorting, moved off. "No wait, you've forgotten something."

He turned and went back to her, already looking slightly more relaxed. "What?"

"You haven't kissed me good morning."

He almost grinned and then, setting his face stubbornly, whispered, "Most of our colleagues are now here. What will they think?"

"Fuck them," Molly growled deeply. She seized him and kissed him. 

Gary kissed back, a little hastily, and then pulled away grinning. "You're a really hot chick."

She felt content, knowing their relationship had moved forward. Gary would know he couldn't maul her in the office but he could now touch and even kiss her lightly because office colleagues had just seen it happen and the three people including Stanley not yet in the room would be told Gary's assistant was more than a legal assistant to him.

Mollie stood in the doorway her right hand on her cheek and the left hand running just under her breasts to support her other elbow: she was in one of the classic thinking positions.

She heard the heavy tread of a male approach, turned and smiled. "Hi Paul. Care to give me a helping hand here?"

Paul looked just above her knees as if hoping Mollie had a problem with her garter belt.

"Please help me shift these desks."

For a moment Paul appeared undecided but Molly widened her smile and he entered the cubicle behind her saying, "Where's our big chief designate?"

"Sent to fetch coffee."

Paul smiled and said from the moment he first saw Mollie he'd known she'd be a tough-ass bitch.

"There is no need for extravagant compliments," she said, tossing her head.

"You're all right Mollie," Paul said, attacking the task. He manhandled the filing cabinets by himself to impress Mollie and was back in his office when Gary returned to find Mollie seated and engrossed in the King & King Office Manual.

Gary gaped and said well-done, looking at the two desks now facing each other with the filing cabinets in a line against the far wall, leaving room for two cabinets for Mollie yet to be ordered, and parallel to the outer office there was just enough room for four chairs to line the wall below glass level. Paul handed Molly her coffee and bagel filled with greasy bacon and a fried egg that made her wince but she thanked him brightly. 

Paul sat on his chair. "The only thing is I'll be looking at you all day, probably staring in a manner contrary to the edicts in that manual."

"You can build a wall of desk file baskets between us."

He said they'd have to do that but he wanted a gap left.

"What, to facilitate dialogue?"

"Yes, but to see your face and perhaps some days you'll have a very low neckline."

"Are you beginning to come on to me Gary?"

"Yes, and it's your fault -- you keep kissing me and sometimes push those tits at me."

"It's polite to refer to them as breasts."

Gary grinned wolfishly. "My belief is you want me to call them tits."

Mollie face turned scarlet. There was no wall of basket files to hide behind so she said, "That round went to you Gary" and his wolfish smile returned.

Mollie pretended to be reading the manual but it was no use; her mind was in a spin. So she squeezed her thighs together and wondered what Gary was capable of doing to her, knowing she was being sexually centered and professionally in neglect of her duty. She didn't care -- the thought of Gary exploring every nook and cranny of her body sent her pulse and mind soaring. Her cell phone went.

"Miss O'Rourke?"

"Yes, Mollie O'Rourke speaking."

"We have never met but Mrs King has referred me to you."

"Mrs Elaine King?"

"No, Maureen King. We are great friends. My husband Charlie has been involved in a road accident and is in hospital under observation after suffering whiplash. The other party threatened to sue and now the office of their attorney has called asking for the name of our attorney Arthur Briggs who's rather a mild man. I thought we needed a more aggressive attorney so I called Maureen and she gave me your phone number. She explained to me you are waiting to be licensed to practice in this state. I am Alice Proctor."

"Indeed, that is the situation Mrs Proctor." 

At the mention of that name Mollie noticed Gary's head jerk up.

"Mrs Proctor if you wish to hire me there is some paper work involved before we start and I must advise I must be accompanied at all times by my senior but you would pay for only one attorney at the standard rate."

"Yes, yes, I understand that. Tell me, how did you know I was Mrs Proctor and not Miss Proctor?"

"You did say your husband had been involved in an accident Mrs Proctor."

"Oh I did. That makes you sound very thorough Miss O'Rourke. May I come to your office now?"

"Yes, ask for me at reception."

As Mollie flicked her phone shut Gary was all over her. 

"Mrs Proctor -- was that Mrs Alice Proctor?"

"Yes, her husband Charlie has been in a road accident and she appears distraught because the other party have threatened to sue."

"You'll have no idea who the Proctors are do you? They own quarries and are worth millions."

"So?"

"If we could land some of their legal work King & King would be elated."

"I accept that but right now Mrs Proctor needs my counseling. Your grandmother has referred her to me."

"Rather than me?"

"I would expect Mrs Proctor asked to consult a female attorney," Mollie said kindly. "I must go to reception and ensure they all are aware I started today."

"They will be. Didn't someone from reception give you the Office Manual?"

"I found it on that chair over there Gary and I must make sure reception knows who I am. I don't want Mrs Proctor arriving only to be told no Miss O'Rourke works here."

"You are so right. Come on, I'll introduce you to all front line personnel. That should have been done earlier."

Gary performed the introduction to the two receptionists and the three support staff behind them with aplomb and it also pleased Mollie to see the five women appeared to like him. The female office manager arrived and the way she fawned over Gary gave Mollie the impression Faye was overly possessive.

As Mollie and Gary returned to the office she asked, "Have you successfully hit on Faye?"

Eyes averted Gary asked, "Why would you think that?"

"Womanly intuition?"

"Rubbish! She must have whispered something to you."

"So I am correct?"

"I-I...yes."

"I thought so. Her manner with you was possessive. Katie was more restrained."

Gary turned and looked at Mollie in astonishment. "Nobody knows about me and Katie."

"Faye is not married, Gary. She would have felt compelled to tell someone. Nervous Katie is married and wouldn't want anyone to know. But it's none of my business -- you have to sow your oats somewhere."

Gary stopped walking so Mollie turned and went back to him.

"It's okay Gary. I grew up being taught to look at horses and cattle for signs of distress. It's a ranching thing. I seemed to have developed it to reading people. I watched all six of those women look at you when you spoke to them and only Faye and Katie reacted abnormally so I assumed you must have been at them -- I mean sexually. But don't fret. I see no reason to pass judgment. As I said, it's none of my business."

"Then why bring it up," he challenged.

"To put you on edge I would guess, although I was unaware I had a motive."

Gary tugged at an ear lobe. "Why would you want me on edge?"

Mollie stared at him calmly and said he might not like the answer but he said go ahead.

"Because I want you to take more than a passing interest in me. Now let's leave it at that and you begin briefing me about your workload. I need to know how you think and react if I am to have much impact on you."

"You mean just work?"

"Whatever Gary," Mollie said airily. "Come on."

As they walked Mollie thought that was it. She'd hinted enough to imprint on his brain she wanted sex -- oh yes, and his companionship. Push any harder and he might back off. If Gary continued to procrastinate she could ask Sarah or Margo to introduce her to a promiscuous guy. Oooh yes.

Five hours later for the second time that day Mrs Proctor sat in the small conference room between Gary and Mollie. On the other side of the table were Mr Mario di Prima and his wife Daniela, both in their mid-thirties, and their attorney, Ben Acland.

Ben Acland said, almost disrespectfully, "We find it difficult to believe you have come into possession of irrefutable evidence that my client Mr di Prima swerved and collided with your client's vehicle Mr King. That, of course, is exactly what Mr and Mrs di Prima claimed what your client did in causing the accident. My client can produce a credible witness whereas your clients failed to secure witnesses at the scene who saw what happened."

Gary said his associate Miss O'Rourke had gone door to door of stores within thirty yards on the side of the street where the accident occurred. He then pulled out console from the drawer beside him and pushed a button. Doors rolled back on the far wall exposing a large screen and a projector attached to the ceiling started.

"Here we see Mr and Mrs Proctor in their 2008 black Jeep Commander Sport, driving quite slowly and there on our right and about to pass the Jeep are Mr and Mrs di Prima in their 2007 2-door Cadillac roadster with the top down. Note that Mrs di Prima is adjusting her headscarf and Mr di Prima is using his phone. Now his free hand comes off the wheel and he gesticulates wildly. The Cadillac swerves and cuts across the front of the Jeep. Mr di Prima reacts, but too late to return to his lane. The collision forces Mr Proctor's SUV into the rear of a truck and that's when he suffered whiplash. Any questions."

Mr Ackland barked, "Where did you get this film?"

"Miss O'Rourke discovered the manager of a camera store was demonstrating a handycam video camera to a guy and his wife and caught the accident on video. The clients purchased a different model but we have their names and address as collaborating witnesses. Miss O'Rourke has obtained statements from all three people and had the manager produce copies of the original tape one of which you have just seen and will be retained by us and the other is here for you and your clients Mr Acland. About now the manager is delivering the original video on CD and his statement to the accident investigation unit of the Police Department. Any further questions?"

There were none. Mr Acland was given a copy of the video and copies of the three statements.

"Now that it is Mr and Mrs Proctor who are in the strongest position in respect of this unfortunate accident Mr Acland, you shall be hearing from us in due course."

After the visitors had left Mrs Proctor said to Gary, "Why didn't you say to that attorney the police would now know the statements by the di Prima's and their witness were untrue in part and that we will now sue the di Prima's?"

"There was no need Mrs Proctor. Right now Mr Acland will be telling his clients they face problems with the police and will have to answer damages claims. You and Mr Proctor have them over a barrel."

"Ah yes, thanks to Mollie."

"Indeed, she is so thorough Mrs Proctor."

"Mollie, I want you to do all my legal work from now on, in association with Gary. Gary if you win damages from those liars I'm sure my husband will turn his legal work over to King & King. I was looking at store windows when the accident happened and Charlie initially said the Jeep cut across the front of us but when finding himself against the di Prima's who claimed he had turned into them decided to shut his mouth until he had spoken to our attorney. He's not feeling like talking to anyone at present wearing that darn neck-brace. I've never known him to be so quiet. He's going to love you Mollie. You've saved Charlie from a possible dent in his reputation."

Gary took Mollie to lunch at 3:00 and told her she'd made a perfect start with King & King. "Mrs Proctor will rave about you to grandma."

"Oh, there's no need for me to complain about that."

They laughed.

"We review cases at our Friday meeting so your name will come up at that meeting," Gary said. "A précis of proceedings is sent to all attorneys including those in management."

"That's good and your name will be featured as well. We are a team."

Gary ignored that. "The précis will cover a short description of this case, the result of your discovery and the result of our client switching from defendant to plaintiff."

"Damn, but then when you win damages from the di Prima's the scalp must be shown as yours."

Gary looked pained. "You don't know our system yet Mollie. The case will now be handed to Stanley to prosecute or more likely my father will insist it be handed to a more senior associate."

"No!"

"What?"

"No, no way. We've got the Proctors this far and I want you to either have the di Prima's settle out of court or you take them to court with me assisting. I would be licensed by the time the case goes to court."

"Mollie, I'm sorry, that is now how this practice operates. We are juniors -- the big actions go upstairs. We can't stop that happening."

"Oh yes we can, at least you can Gary. This opportunity landed in our lap on Day One of us coming together as a team. It's a miracle. Don't you see it as that?" 

Gary looked at her stonily. "You want me to fight to keep control?"

Mollie sighed and blew him a kiss. She stood up. "It's your decision and you know what I expect. Over to you. I'm off to take flowers to Mrs Proctor and to say hello to her husband. It's only a courtesy call and you should not regard it as interference or improper conduct. It's what Mrs Proctor a, right thinking woman of her generation, would expect of me."

"Do you think that is wise?"

"I believe it's the right thing to do Gary. I've made my decision. This is how I and many other people operate. You ought to try it some time."

His neutral look turned into a frown and for a moment Mollie wished she'd not made that last comment. But then she thought sometimes one had to be hurtful to be kind. She smiled at him warmly and walked from the restaurant, knowing before he mulled over what she'd just said he'd be looking at her ass and the back of her legs. She hoped he'd be thinking sex, if only fleetingly.

* * *

Gary almost licked his lips watching Mollie's swinging butt as she walked toward the door. A wave of flickering thoughts about plundering her body made him look around nervously, but no one was looking at him, at least not that he could see. Mollie made him nervous. He'd occasionally heard a woman could over-power a guy. He supposed she was one of those, although that loose men's talk about over-powering women had sexual overtones if not being revoltingly direct about it. Bossiness was another aspect. The thought about Mollie slamming her body against his made him grin and forget about her being bossy.

After leaving payment on the table Gary almost swaggered to the door. Never before had he experienced a woman virtually throwing herself at him like Mollie was doing. Top-shelf Mollie wanting him up her -- what was he waiting for?

Exactly! What was he waiting for? He knew what it had been -- fear that she was being overly nice to him in gratitude of what his grandmother had done for her. Mollie would have been aware there was no way she could repay his grandmother for stabilizing her life or the kindness his mother had shown to Mollie. No way would he want Mollie to be all over him out of gratitude. But that fear had faded. He'd become aware she seemed to have more than a passing interest in sex and had been without it for some time. He now understood he was first cab on the rank because she didn't know any other guy. At least not yet. He was sure Mollie, even in need, would not contemplate going into a bar and lining up some guy to fuck her. Oh the poor darling.

Gary almost stopped in shock at thinking of her so sympathetically and adding the label darling. Never had he called anyone darling. He just didn't think of women like that, not even his own mother, not even on rare occasions when he petted her when she was down in spirit. 

Mollie and him? She'd spoken about him moving in with her. At the time he'd greeted that cynically, thinking she'd just wanted someone on hand to fuck as well as to have him under her influenced almost exclusively so she could mould him to fit the required specifications to elevate to associate status. God he was brain deficient, not thinking of her being lonely and also wanting a guy around her to fuss after, to talk to and to partner her out for meals and to attend social events. His mind had centered on sex whereas Mollie's mind had soared beyond that. Why hadn't his? Gary sighed and delivered the answer aloud, "Because your lights are not turned on."

Instead of crossing the street to the office Gary turned into a café and ordered a coffee he didn't really want. He became lost in thought about what he needed to do to turn his lights on. He licked his lips when he thought of the first priority -- move in with Mollie. Secondly he must stop being suspicious of her and afraid she might show him up as being deficient. Mollie was obviously like his mom -- a person generous in spirit. He must respond to her positively, be keen to change and do what she wanted, although not to ignore his own judgment of course. Mollie had accepted the challenge to iron out his deficiencies. No one else was likely to offer a helping hand. The choice was between Mollie or continuing to wallow in professional mediocrity.




Mollie from Montana Ch. 07-11



Mollie!

Gary hastened back to the office to tell Mollie of his decision but she was out. He called his father.

"Dad, I want to see you fairly urgently."

"I'm busy right now Gary."

"Dad..."

"Oh, all right. Come up. You may have to wait."

Gary stepped from the elevator and noticed his father's door was open. A receptionist told him to go straight in.

Stephen looked at his son with a raised eyebrow. "You better make sure this is important."

Gary ignored that. "Have you heard how Mollie stymied the threatened action against Mr Charlie Proctor stone dead?"

"Yes, Stanley called to tell me. You briefed Mollie well."

"Dad, when she suggested going door to door I told her dismissively it would be a waste of time."

Gary waited for his father to roar his disapproval. Instead, Stephen looked at him curiously and said, "And?"

"Mollie said well let's waste some time. I thought she appeared so keen and if she did turn up something of merit that could place her under the spotlight for future promotion so I said check out her instinct and call me if she needed help. She choose to visit the six premises looking towards the approaching vehicles because people there would potentially see more than any witnesses looking at vehicles moving away from them. She's brilliant dad, it was a long shot but it was all we had so she took it."

"That's what Stanley said. You should be delighted to have a keen-brained woman as your associate Gary."

"I am dad, I'm becoming enthusiastic about her."

"Steady on son, enthusiasm is rather a stranger to you. Why are you really here?"

"Dad, I want to bring closure to this action with Mollie as my assistant. If it goes to court, in all probability she will have become licensed to practice law in this state and therefore can appear with me or even represent our client alone if that is our client's wish. She is very experienced in civil law dad."

"So, you want me to bend our procedures to suit you and Mollie?"

"Ah, rather I want you to show that there is some flexibility on merit. I argue that Mollie and I as a team are more than adequate to take this case to conclusion. I don't see it proceeding to court because the weight of evidence is against the di Primas. However, if a negotiated settlement with the defendant and his insurers falls too far short of our expectation we will seek a court judgment."

"Look Gary, if I decided in your favor there could be allegations of nepotism."

"You should be asking what's in this request for King & King Law?"

"Very well, what is in it for us?"

Gary said Mrs Proctor had already stated she would be moving her legal affairs to King & King and would be requesting that Mollie manage her legal work. "My feeling is if Mollie and I produce a handsome settlement for Charlie Proctor he will transfer at least some of his legal work to King and King. Mrs Proctor was impressed beyond belief by Mollie's outstanding performance. She witnessed the case against her husband turned on its head so what is she going to be telling her husband?"

"That King & King has engaged a genius?"

Gary laughed and said that was a mite over the top. "Mollie is with them now."

"What!"

"Mollie is a smooth and a caring operator dad. She's taken flowers to Mrs Proctor and to express a wish to say hello to Charlie."

"What!"

"Cool it dad, she's not touting. Mrs Proctor had told us Charlie was upset and furious about being put into a neck-brace. Mollie just wanted to tell him face to face that everything was under control and I guess to tell him to call me when he's ready to discuss a damages claim."

"She'll not tell Charlie to call you, she'll be in there grafting for business but stopping short of touting. By God, if she gives the Proctors one shred of legal advice without you being present she's out of here."

"Dad, you don't know Mollie. She's as straight as any woman can be. Take a minute to ask mom what she thinks about Mollie. Thank you for listening to me, I'm out of here."

Gary was almost to the door when Stephen called, "Gary, I will put your request to the partners and if they agree you and Mollie act exclusively with Charlie Proctor then I will announce that decision to the associates and if there's any outcry or resentment then they'll learn why I have the title of managing kick-ass partner."

Gary smiled "I'm most grateful Mr King. May the force be with you." He went through the doorway, his father's chuckle still audible. 

Mollie ended a call as Gary walked into their cubicle.

"Stand up."

"Yes sir," she grinned, standing to attention as he hung up his jacket.

"May I kiss you?"

Surprised, she then grinned and told him not to be too sexy because people would see them.

Gary placed his arms around Mollie and kissed her lips softly.

She sighed as he let her go and Paul Rose walking by rapped on the glass and waggled his finger at them, smiling.

"I've just been to see my father," Gary said. "He resisted initially but I managed to turn him around. He'll put to the partners my request for you and me to represent Charlie Proctor to conclusion. An announcement will be made on Friday."

"I'm impressed you made the effort. What is your gut feeling?"

"They'll decide in our favor. How did you get on?"

"Mrs Proctor was bowled over that I thought of giving her flowers. She took me to see her husband who congratulated me on our efforts. He said was I there to make a case to get more legal work from him but I denied that and said no, he'd know our feelings about that. I just wanted to assure him he had nothing to worry about and it was the other party who had the worries. I suggested he should call you when he was ready to talk about claiming damages and handed him your card. I then said goodbye and turned to leave and he said whoa, surely I wanted to gouge -- yes, that was the word he used -- for business. I said not at all. I knew such a decision required only thought plus intelligent and it appeared to me he had both. It hurt him to laugh and I was invited to stay and have coffee but I said I was at the end of my lunch hour and must get back to my legal buddy."

"Well done. I must emphasis you must not tout or give legal advice."

"Thank you."

"Aren't you going to say there is no need to be reminded about what you already know?"

Mollie smiled and said of course not. It was his duty to remind her and her duty to listen.

They sat at their desks and Gary tossed over a file. "Take a look at this and attach a note outlining the action that we should take in defense and then send it back to Stanley. Stanley wants just your opinion and recommendation to assess the extent of your knowledge. He advises he will do this from time to time."

"Thanks and please make no suggestions."

"Right, Stanley thought you would make that response and ask me to advise him of your response."

"Jesus. What is this? Kindergarten?"

Grinning, Gary said, "Mollie, is your invitation for me to move in with you still open?"

Mollie looked at Gary, eyes widening. "Yes and no strings attached apart from sharing the rent, keeping our home tidy and generally being a good boy. When do you want to move in?"

"Saturday morning?"

"Fine -- make it at 10:00. My room or the spare room."

"Could I have the spare room? Just let's see how it goes."

Chapter 8

Unaware that Gary had committed to try for carnal connection, Mollie pedaled in the fitness center that evening without listening to her iPod. Deep in thought she wondered about agreeing to Gary moving in. It could mean the end to any chance of developing a new life in a new city in a new state. He'd been such a bore about sex -- marginally suggestive but little else. He'd probably turn out to be a couch potato, preferring to watch a boring sports TV channel instead of drama with lashing of sex or switching off the TV and saying boldly, 'Let's go out and have fun'.

Fun and Gary? She had to be kidding. Actually he knew who he was, a guy near the bottom of the feeding chain and reasonably happy with that, whereas she knew she was the type meant to soar but due to circumstances her life had spun out of control from which she'd struggled to recover. Mollie snorted, accepting she'd just managed to begin to stabilize with the promise of ascent only to attach herself to depressing baggage that went by the name of Gary. God, she needed her head read.

Mollie figured she had three choices: Leave town, attempt to jettison Gary as soon as she was licensed or to grind on with him. Dammit, she might have known attempting to present options she'd go for the most difficult one. She found challenges irresistible. Mollie decided she must struggle on. At least the Frog Prince had come to her where perhaps she could maximize her greatest influence on him. What a fool she'd been vaguely issuing only three rules in respect of his residency -- she should have composed pages of them, with failure to comply with any of them meant he was out of the apartment on his ear. But then she thought of Mickey and knew this was no different, in fact the problems were far from being dissimilar.

Mickey had been Mollie's first real triumph in life apart from sport. She'd been successful at swimming and had won prizes at local gymkhanas but nothing had ever challenged her up to then like mad Mickey. Mollie was sixteen when she accompanied her father to visit Ted Vickers. Mickey was odd-pup-out in a litter and when Mollie heard Mr Vickers say the Oddball would be placed in a bag and drowned Mollie screamed no, but was largely ignored apart from the two men grinning. She asked if she could have Oddball. Mr Vickers said yes but her father said no. Her father sighed when he heard whimpering in the trunk on the drive home and when they arrived watched Mollie smuggle away her adopted baby. The vet checked out the pup when Mollie's father described it as being 'mad' but it was decided to not have it tested because Mr Vickers was a reputable breeder and would have put the whole litter down if there was a suggestion of disease. The vet advised Mollie to change the Aussie pup's name from Oddball if she didn't want him to become an oddball for life. Mollie chose Mickey and learned all she could about raising a pup.

A year went by a Mollie enrolled Mickey in a weekend training school for six weeks. Mollie's father had said he'd not buy sheep just to allow Mollie to work her dog. At the obedience training school Mollie learned 'Aussies' were stock dogs and very useful for working sheep, goats and cattle. She began disappearing on the ranch with Mickey, riding out to the smaller cattle yards on the far boundary and six months later rode out with her father to herd some yearlings. Her father watched in astonishment as Mickey did most of the work -- still rather raw but in the end quite effective. Alas, Mickey would only work efficiency with Mollie but her father accepted that, acknowledging the dog's loyalty. During Mollie's first year at college she raced home for Mickey's burial after her brother Brian called to say a wild dog had cornered Mickey and ripped his throat open. Brian camped out for three days before he finally spotted and shot dead the maraudering killer.

Thinking back on that Mollie brushed away a couplet of tears and resolved to be as successful with Gary as she'd been with Mickey and she also placed in her mind a tick against Brian's name for avenging Mickey for her. As soon as her training role with Gary was completed she'd move on and begin a new start. That evening she went to a movie alone and ate out alone, feeling lonely but thinking at least from now on she'd have Gary for company although she had no idea of his movie preferences but thought it was unlikely to be blood and guts.

At the 7:30 Friday morning meeting of all fifty-nine King & King attorneys with apologies from three who were out of town and one hospitalized, Mollie and two other newcomers were introduced to the gathering.

"You may have noticed Mollie is female," Stephen said, almost as an after-thought.

"No," muttered someone and Stephen said dryly, "Roland, pass your glasses to Joe and tell us what you see Joe."

The exchange was made and Joe said, "It's very blurred but I think I see a vision of loveliness. Are we entering a new era boss?"

Stephen said, "Mother, as chairman perhaps you may wish to enlighten our assembly?"

Maureen told the packed lunchroom, with a third of those attending without seats, "Mollie O'Rourke who hails from Montana, performed an exemplary act of bravery when I was accosted on Main Street by a belligerent brute. She berated him verbally with cutting legalese and had him almost paralyzed by fear before he ran off. Mollie had no idea who I was, said she'd just arrived in the city and answered she was seeking to be hired as an attorney. We talked and she impressed me no end, so here she is and yes Joe, King & King is no longer the near exclusive bastion of male attorneys. I set that policy many years ago and which never had been challenge and I knowingly abandoned that policy by insisting Mollie be found a position here. She is just short of the minimum five year's active experience requirement so in the meantime has been teamed with my grandson Gary, hopefully for mutual benefit."

"Thank you mother. On a connected matter, you all should have read in case summaries that Gary and Mollie were successful in gathering evidence -- mainly as a result of Mollie's extraordinary diligence -- to nullify a damages claim against one of our most influential citizens, Mr Charles Proctor. With that reversal Mr Proctor is now free to claim damages against the original claimant in their vehicle accident. Gary requested that he and Mollie be authorized to take those proceedings to conclusion instead of the action being handed to a senior associate. I decided to be advised on that request by my fellow partners and I now announce the decision to grant that request was decided unanimously. It sets a precedent but I must advise the partners will collectively consider all similar requests. Mrs Proctor has already stated she is transferring all of her legal work to King & King with a request that Mollie be her principal consultant. Late last evening Mr Proctor called me to say he will progressively transfer most of his entire legal work to King and King and requested I be his principal consultant and I agreed to that. You all will be aware that legal work for Proctor Industries will add to our workload significantly and will require an expansion in resources. This is a momentous occasion for this firm. Any comment?"

Ewan Marks: My understanding is the rule a senior associate takes over cases proceeding to court was instituted to protect the reputation of this law practice.

Stephen: Correct and that will be central in the consideration of all such requests for deviation. In this instance an out-of-court settlement seems most likely.

Michael Kennedy: I am upset that a woman was admitted into our ranks without consultation.

Stephen: It was my and the chairman's decision not to consult.

Michael: Well I object.

Stephen: Then lodge that objection formally through the appropriate channel Michael. 

There were no more questions and the meeting dealt with routine matters. At the conclusion a large number of attorneys gathered around to meet Mollie. Some just glared at her and left the room.

Back at their department Stanley said to Gary and Mollie in front of all other personnel, "Well, you two are setting precedent within this firm by being authorized to take the upcoming Proctor case to closure. I offer you my congratulations and will assist you in every way I can. Make sure you keep me updated on progress and your intentions."

When Mollie and Gary returned to their cubicle, Gary said, "I'm nervous and desperately require a kiss."

"Gary, you'll wing through this with ease. I only kiss when greeting or saying goodbye or during sex. Neither of those situations applies here."

"Open you legs and I'll administer toe sex. Then will you kiss me?"

"Gary!" Mollie said amid a little blush. "Behave!"

After office drinks that afternoon Gary went off to dinner with a couple of male friends. Shortly after arriving home Mollie received a call from Maureen King. 

"I'm taking Elaine to dinner as Gary is off somewhere with buddies and Stephen is dining at his club. Would you care to join us?"

"Maureen, I've apparently raised a stir with Gary with associates now. It I'm spotted dining with you two it could add to discontent."

"Are you worried about that?"

"No."

"Then we shall see you at Mandeno's at 8:00." 

The phone clicked before Mollie could reply.

Mandeno's was an up-market restaurant so Molly decided to dress formally. She arrived to find mother and daughter dressed formally so was relieved she hadn't over-dressed. Maureen kissed her cheek and gave her a wee squeeze, saying, "You did well with Alice Proctor -- although she is one of my closest friends I have been unable to add her to my personal client list. She told me she was switching to our firm but wanted you to represent her in areas of your expertise and said it is up to you to whom you refer other work."

"So you would like referrals?"

"Yes. You will find my areas of specialization on our website."

"Appeals, real estate, zoning, corporation, probate and estate planning."

Maureen smiled as if impressed.

Mollie and Elaine then greeted each other. Mollie kissed demurely and felt Elaine push against her although her own body had telegraphed no such reaction. She really liked Elaine, in fact she had come close to adoring her, but not as a lover. Elaine would have to understand that.

Later that night when going to sleep, to divert from focusing on misbehavior with Elaine Mollie wondered how well would Gary perform in bed. She had no reason to suspect he'd be a sub-performer and yet half expected disappointment. A little confused by her mixed expectations she fell dreamily to sleep, lapsing again to think had they been of similar age and Elaine had not been married they may well have been ripe for a steamy liaison.

At 10:00 next morning Gary arrived. Mollie answered the bell and confirming he was alone reached out, hooked her hand into his belt and pulled him into the room, growling throatily like a dog over a bone. She was ready to devour him but at the last second was dismayed by his submissive appearance. Molly let him go and straightened her hair, turning away in the hope of disguising her panting.

"Why knock; you have your own access card?"

"Yes but I had to be confident you were completely committed about me moving in."

"I welcomed you warmly, didn't I?"

"You call that a welcome?"

"Yes, what did you think it was?"

Gary looked appalled. "Molly you can't grab men as if they are playthings."

"It was a warm welcome."

"It was only a little short of a carnivore about to ingest."

Mollie giggled and said he exaggerated enormously.

Gary, looking more relaxed, smiled and said sorry.

"Sorry? Just give me a sweet kiss and say good morning Mollie, you look ravishing today."

Gary touched her lips with his and said good morning and Mollie greeted that with a frustrated sigh.

"Come," Mollie said, taking Gary by the hand. "There are a couple service trolleys in the foyer. I'll help with the transfer."

As they went down in the elevator Mollie, arms spread on the deep handrail and very aware that position left her in a rather sexy pose, said softly, "I am so elated that you have decided to reside with me."

She remained motionless not wanting Gary to interpret her pose as being provocative. She watched his eyes widen as they fixed on her breasts.

Gary?

Torn from his thoughts he looked up in surprise and said, "You are so beautiful."




Mollie from Montana Ch. 07-11



Mollie froze, instinctively knowing any response could divert him, killing the moment.

"May I kiss you?"

She nodded and Gary moved in, Mollie resolving to play it cool.

Gary kissed her and then, stroking the side of her face, moved down and kissed the base of her throat, the kiss of a seducer. Then dammit, she sighed. As the doors of the elevator opened they walked out, arm in arm.

The move-in went without drama. Mollie and Gary went out for lunch and enjoyed the rest of the day that ended when they retired to their respective bedrooms without either of them attempting to grope.

Next morning at 6:00 Gary padded into Mollie's bedroom and whispered, "Good morning." 

Mollie stirred, stretched and replied huskily, "Oh hello."

"Coffee or juice?"

"Oooh nice but kiss me first," Mollie yawned, stretching her arms wide, noting Gary was dressed only in baggy white shorts. He looked bony but muscular.

Gary leaned down and kissed her, making no effort to pull away hurriedly.

The next thing Mollie knew was Gary's hand had slipped under the sheet. She held her breath and as if her wish was answered the hand slipped under the neck of her cropped silk cami above the matching panties. 

She thought, flip out a tit you tentative seducer.

Gary raised his head and flipped out a breast, eyeing Mollie momentarily before sinking his head, mouth open. 

Heart pounding she opened her legs slowly, hoping the movement would not be detected. She didn't want to appear over-eager. God, she felt like plundering him. Gary was painstakingly slow. Her breasts were almost shooting off the nipples like bullets. Mollie couldn't stop squeezing her ass cheeks and then rolling on them side to side. She was hotting up and then delightedly felt heat from Gary. He climbed on to the bed and to begin nibbling her nipples, working them both and emitting slight groans as he went between them. Moving a leg Mollie then felt his cock and detected it was hardening and then caught a whiff of her arousal and knew with certainly Gary's nose would now be tuning into it. There was no turning back -- there was no way she'd allow him to leave her stranded. No way!

Mollie pulled away her leg that was against him, reached down and gave his very adequate length a light squeeze.

Gary groaned, "Pull it out and go to work on it."

Mollie gloated, knowing she was only minutes away from being penetrated.

Afterwards they napped for the best part of an hour. Mollie awoke to find Gary gazing at her.

"Thank you."

He smiled and said it was his pleasure.

She pounced, knowing the breakthrough had occurred and if she were to gain some control it had to be stated right now. "Just how good was the pleasuring?"

Gary hesitated although continuing to gaze at her so she had to answer for him.

"Not great huh?"

"Oh, I wouldn't say that."

Mollie's eyes narrowed and she asked then how would he describe it.

Gary turn to eye the white plastered ceiling. "Being you I must admit I had expected something better."

Mollie laughed and Gary looked at her, appearing slightly bewildered.

"Gary, we need to talk."

"Okay, about what?"

"About sex. I say this in the kindest way. Overall I find you a bit tentative and expected you to be like that in bed, so I left my foot off the gas pedal. I did that because I was nervous about you thinking I was a bit too much and was trying to dominate you."

"You can dominate me in bed Mollie, I really don't care."

That comment appalled Mollie. "Gary, please don't think like that. I want you to care. I want you to give it your best in everything you do, and that includes fucking me. I'm a natural born sex slut Gary and enjoy taking it to the limit, slamming into you. I'm at my happiest when I've been fucked almost legless."

"Y-you are?"

"Yes Gary but also consider this. I'm the same way about working out on my fitness and throwing myself into my work. I energize and plunge into everything that matters to me and oh yeah, do I love sex!"

Gary looked thoughtful. "In that case I don't mind..."

"Gary! What did I just say to you?"

"Oh right. In that case please be my guest and go wild fucking me. I don't think you understand. Most women don't really enjoy sex and moan about being careful not to hurt them, to don't mess up their hair and..."

"God Gary, who have you been with? Those females sound like little prats or social bunnies. Have you never had a real woman?"

Gary palmed his chest and slid that hand to scratch an armpit. "How am I expected to know that?"

"God Gary...!"

"What?"

"It doesn't matter. Fetch me a towel and then bring me a juice...er please dear one."

"Not darling?" he leered.

She snarled, "Not until you've earned it." 

He leapt out of bed and hurried back with a towel. Eyeing his swinging and still half inflated cock Mollie said kindly, "At least you have the equipment to satisfy a real woman" and smiled, watching the face of the under-done guy glow.

Gary said that was a lovely thing to say to him. "Mollie, please teach me to fuck."

"Fetch our drinks Gary. Then we are off to mess around in the pool for an hour. We'll then come back here and you can decide what we should do."

"Honestly?"

"Honestly."

Being Sunday morning the pool had attracted residents keen to burn out some of their Saturday gluttony or limber up to glide into the new day.

Gary removed his cotton robe and Mollie almost gurgled in delight. Standing upright he looked more lean than skinny. Very athletic in fact and in his black racing swimwear he showed off the best body of the almost dozen guys in the pool area. Proudly she watched a number of the younger women looking at him longer than could be considered polite. At this moment Mollie knew she felt very attracted to Gary. She removed her robe and dove in before the older men had time to grab a real eyeful, the perverts. She watched Gary ahead of her and decided well at least this was one thing he could do well, believing it was unlikely she could out-swim him.

They returned to the apartment, Gary kissing her in the elevator without having to be asked. They went off to shower. 

Gary entered her bathroom nude and stroking an erection said, "Fuck me Mollie."

Drying herself Mollie giggled and said there was no need to be so crude. "Jump on to the bed." She applied perfume and went after him, already aroused at the sight of his departing slim butt. 

Mollie crawled between Gary's feet and bending over him wrapped her hand around his erection and addressed it, "Oh my, aren't you an elegant long and handsome dick." The dick quivered in her hand expectantly.

"You actually like the look of it?"

"Yes Gary. But remember it's what you do with it that really counts."

The dick swelled a little more in her hand and Mollie licked the helmet noisily.

"Oh God," Gary said, clutching at the bedding beneath him and was told to try to keep calm.

Mollie slurped her way up and down the length until it was thoroughly wet and she felt her breasts swelling.

Mollie sat up, smiled at Gary and then turned and straddled him and backed up over his chest, thinking if he didn't know what to do now why bother encouraging him? She took him into her mouth slowly and closing her teeth to scrape his skin lightly. Mollie sighed in deep satisfaction as she felt his tongue slide up and down the sides of both sides of her upper thighs, her outer lips being easing apart by his fingers and as his tongue entered her she waggled her ass a few times to signal she knew he was on the job.

A little over an hour later Mollie staggered to the bathroom to clean up and run a bath. She returned to the bedroom and gave the grateful Gary, who appeared a little dazed and exhausted, a glass of water. She went to hold him up to drink but manfully he said he could manage.

"I feel I've run ten miles and been run over by a bus," he wheezed.

"I know the feeling; good isn't it?"

"No."

"Oh come on Gary, you'll get used to it. Just remember the run up to being wrung out is packed full with climatic moments."

"Is that what I experienced?"

"Yes, you were bellowing like a bull on occasions, especially when I was riding you Cowgirl and later when I stuck a finger you know where you exploded and drenched me screaming was all that from you?"

"Was it?"

"Yes Gary. I still have residue in my hair and some went up my nose."

Gary mumbled how gross and was told not to apologize.

"You were a wild man darling."

"So it's darling now?" he groaned, wearily sitting up.

"Yes darling -- you've won your silver spurs. You've left me practically legless. I don't think I've ever had so many climaxes in one session."

"How many times did I fire?"

"I was aware of five."

"Five," Gary said, straining to look down at his flaccid cock and smiling weakly. "That's a record for me. I feel totally spent and sexually replete."

"Gary, I don't count my orgasms and ejaculations in order to define great sex. Great sex for me is all about the way you hold me, how we work together, how you strum my senses to unbelievable heights, how..." Mollie stopped mid-sentence, looking at Gary collapsed back on the pillow, his tongue lolling out the corner of his mouth slightly. He was almost asleep. She smiled happily and returned to the bathroom to soak in the bath.

Just on dark Mollie awoke, rolled on to her back and stretched and remembered bringing Gary really out of his shell a few hours earlier. Was he still beside her? She turned to find him on an elbow smiling at her.

"I've a hard-on that's waiting for you."

"Jerk off Gary, I'm a little sore."

Gary's face fell and she wished she hadn't said that. Now he'd turn negative and express concern.

"Is your mouth sore as well?"

Mollie looked at Gary in disbelief that he'd said that. She grinned and reaching for it gave it a couple of tugs. "Good boy, it will keep. Let's go out for dinner."

Scratching his forehead Gary said, "Can't you cook?"

"I'm a good cook but living alone I've gotten in the habit of eating out just to have people around me."

"Oh your poor darling."

Awash with feeling at hearing him say that Mollie almost gave in to pull him over her. She sighed and said, "Come on, I'll wait for you to shower and then we'll go out."

As they went down in the elevator with an older couple Gary said calmly, "Since I'm now living with you may I ask how often do you like being seduced?"

In normal voice Mollie said, "Yes of course, anything to provide greater understanding. Life is not all about sex so I don't fuck all the time. We will become emotionally tuned and you'll know that it's a good time to put it to work. Then of course there are occasions when my mind can be changed."

The other woman said, "I hope you heard that Jack. That was beautifully expressed from the women's point of view."

"Huh, what else is left in life that interests me so much?"

"You could try developing your brain Jack," the woman sighed.

Mollie and Gary went to the Miranda restaurant that Sarah had recommended as being the best place around for Sunday night eating as they had live music -- a male guitarist and female on keyboard who also sang. Sarah was there with an older guy and stood and waved to Mollie to join them. The introductions were made. The guy was introduced only as Ruben, which indicated to Mollie he was married and she later found Ruben was married to Sarah's older sister Robyn who was away for the weekend at regional skating championships. Gary recalled who Sarah Wynter was and said their respective parents were friendly, being members of a larger group.

"Well, what have you two been up to today?" Mollie asked, and watching Gary's color with pride and embarrassment, said dryly, "Oh, I see."

Mollie said that Gary had moved in with her the previous day and Ruben colored Sarah's face by saying casually, "Sarah and I stayed in a hotel last night and had a great time." Mollie buried her face into Gary's shoulder to suppress her giggling.

"My sister Robyn is rather promiscuous," Sarah explained lamely as Gary caught the attention of a wine waiter and asked everyone to name their drink. Sarah and Ruben had only water in front of them but they all ordered cocktails. From that moment they all relaxed and had a great time. They went back to the apartment where Sarah just managed to pack herself into one of Mollie's swimsuits. Ruben couldn't fit into a pair of Gary's swimsuits so opted to wear his boxers. At the end of the evening they arranged to meet back at the Miranda for dinner next Sunday with Sarah's boyfriend and Ruben's wife.

"Oh isn't this lovely, we are building a circle of friends," Mollie cooed as she and Gary headed back to the elevator after waving off their guests. "If you are interested I feel like sex. Ruben felt me up a couple of times in the pool."

"What! The jerk."

"Calm down Gary, it's just a male thing."

"Well I didn't grope your friend Sally."

"But I saw you looking at her tits and butt."

"Yes, well isn't that why women have those features?"

Mollie giggled. "Oh, I can't wait to see Sarah's sister Robyn meets you. Your tight butt will drive her crazy."

"Mollie!"

"Just teasing. I have no idea about what interests Robyn. Did Sarah excite you at all?"

"Yes, a bit. She has a great figure and is stimulating as a personality."

"Good boy. Yes, Sarah is beautifully vivacious. Are you aware your mother can be vivacious?"

"My mother? Lively and sexy? Are we talking about the same person?"

"Yes, but her family suppresses her somewhat so you are not alone. Tell me, who attracts new friends -- your mother or your father? 

"My father, from associations with clients and members of his club."

"And people in neither of those categories?"

"Oh, I see -- my mother I must admit. How she does it I don't know because apart from her charity work she is not involved in anything."

"Do you notice other people, especially women, appear to like her?"

"Yes, now that you mention it."

As they walked from the elevator Gary learned that Mollie regarded his mother as lively, charming and possessing a sense of adventure, but those attributes were difficult to spot when she had her family around her.

"Do you mean she has affairs?"

"I have no idea Gary. She'd not spoken to me about it."

Gary looked relieved but that didn't last. Mollie added it wouldn't surprise her if his mother had the occasional fling.

"My mother?" Gary said dumbly, but wasn't answered.

Chapter 9

The weeks went by and the relationship between Gary and Mollie developed and continued smoothly and his performance at the office became noticeable improved, acknowledged by Stanley, Stephen, Maureen and Gary himself. Mollie accepted the plaudits graciously but added what else had they expected? Although perhaps that was rather dismissive, deep down she was proud of herself and very proud of Gary finally committing to her, telling her he'd follow her directions slavishly and before long she became aware he was doing just that. Gary even went to Stanley to ask Mollie be given senior status of their duo. The day Mollie was licensed to practice law in the state. Stanley informed Mollie and Gary she was the senior in their partnership.

"But you cannot do that," Mollie responded aggressively. "That is unkind to Gary and what will others in the department think?"

"The others." Stanley said solemnly, "know as well as Gary and I do, you are a cut above the norm so please accept that. It may also interest you to know Gary approached me recently urging I declare you his senior but because as you were waiting to sit your bar examination I informed him the timing was inappropriate."

"Gary, you idiot. You know I would have accepted you being appointed my senior."

"Of course I knew that but I knew it would be in name only. Your ascent is unstoppable Mollie and I happily acknowledge that."

"Oh Gary," Mollie wailed, and Stanley discreetly vacated his office to allow the young lovers to hug and kiss in localized privacy although two clients and all personnel in the office could see through the glass what was going on.

Stanley commented loudly, "That is Gary displaying delight in my decision to declare Mollie his senior." As the couple emerged from Stanley's office they were congratulated by well-wishers including Paul Rose who said, "Mollie, it will be a race between you and me who wins associate status."

At that stage Gary and Mollie had for the past twenty weeks topped the department's chart of revenue producers by margins ranging from 60% to 385% above the next highest earner. That 385% margin was acknowledge by Stephen at the next Friday morning meeting of attorneys and received applause. The time then arrived for a conference between Charlie Proctor, as claimant, and Mario di Prima as defendant, their attorneys and insurance company attorneys and representatives. It was held in a conference room at a hotel. By that stage de Prima had been fined by the court for driver negligence in causing a road accident while using a cell phone and in doing so crossed lanes. As a result of that his counter-claim against Proctor was dropped.

Mollie assisted Gary but did not speak. Gary sought settlement of $375,000 and that was just over 2.5 times the amount offered by di Prima's insurance company. There was quick agreement on the amount payable to Proctor for hire car costs. The bargaining then began over the costs for chiropractic and other medical bills and the pain and suffering Proctor had suffered for three weeks as a result of damaged to soft tissue in the neck. Gary then cited settlements on similar cases that Mollie had researched, all averaging less than court jury awards but all were $25,000 to $115,000 above what Proctor was being offered. As the other side began raising its offer the di Prima's insurance company attorney proposed a final offer that was $75,000 above the initial offer. Gary called for a brief adjournment and took Charlie Proctor outside to confer. They returned after a couple of minutes.

"My client has decided he will accept an offer of not less than $360,000," Gary said.

"That's way out of line," di Prima shouted. "No way." His attorney urged him to remain silent.

"As I said, an offer of not less than $360,000," Gary said, "plus an unqualified apology to my client in this room as part of the settlement. We also pointed out that we alleged and still allege that the di Prima's and their witness lied in their statements to the police in respect of the relative positions of both vehicles at the point of impact. For reasons unknown to us the police decided to take no action against those three people about false statements. We now give notice that if this claim proceeds to court we will be calling for an investigation into our complaints about false statements, pointing out that it is against all odds that three people could be similarly mistaken on such a vital element contributing to the collusion."

The other party went outside to confer. When they returned Mario di Prima remained standing and devoid of emotion addressed Charlie Proctor directly and said he apologized without reservation for causing the accident that damaged the Proctor's vehicle, shocked both occupants and led to Mr Proctor suffering pain and upset to his business life.

Charlie Proctor simply nodded and then the senior negotiator for the di Prima's said all parties including the di Prima's were agreeable to a final offer for complete settlement of $360,000 on that condition that the settlement ended the action in every respect."

Charlie whispered to Gary and Gary announced the offer and conditions were accepted.

Mollie stood behind Gary as Charlie Proctor slapped Gary on the back and said well done. 

"I have a buddy who heads a small law firm that specializes in auto and personal accident and he said he'd be surprised if I got an negotiated settlement of in excess of two hundred and fifty grand. You've done amazingly well for me Gary and you too Mollie -- why are you hiding behind Gary?"




Mollie from Montana Ch. 07-11



"It's his day Mr Proctor. His strategy worked brilliantly. The di Prima's had thought their attempts to lie their way out of filing false statements had succeeded and they were safely in the clear. You are a very wealthy man by all accounts Mr Proctor and I knew all you really wanted was that apology. Gary and I agreed the liar should be made to feel he'd lost heavily I believe we all read the suppressed fury in his eyes when he forced out that apology."

Charlie chuckled and patted Mollie on the shoulder, saying well said. "Come for a celebratory drink in the bar you two," he said taking his wife's arm. "Alice and I fly out on our first leg to Paris tonight otherwise we would have asked you out to dinner."

In the bar Gary excused himself briefly to phone through the settlement details to Stanley and when he and Mollie returned to their office everyone in the department bunched around Gary to congratulate him.

Paul Rose made a surprising announcement. "We all with one exception reckoned you'd have to settle for between $175,000 to $230,000. Odd man out was Stanley who thought you were hungry enough to eke out $280,000. You topped that pal, well done."

Fifteen minutes later Stephen arrived to congratulate them both.

"I did nothing, this was Gary's day," Mollie insisted.

"You gave us this opportunity by tracking down that video witness," Stephen said to Mollie, as he stepped in to hug Gary and slap him on the back. "Without that our client would have been the defendant because di Prima was claiming he lost control when his vehicle was side-swiped when in his lane."

"Thanks dad, and it's true Mollie refused to participate in today's negotiations. She just accompanied me as back-up. By the way, what settlement did you figure I would get?"

"Two hundred and seventy-five grand tops. That's why I'm down here to congratulate you."

As Stephen departed Paul Rose entered the glassed-in cubicle. "Hi guys, I just called Renée to report on your progress. She said she enjoyed meeting you Mollie at the dinner recently and has invited you to dinner tonight if you two are free. Are you?"

Mollie looked at Gary and he nodded. She said, "Thank you Paul, we accept. Tell me, you said Renée enjoyed meeting me. Does that mean she doesn't enjoy meeting Gary?"

Paul grinned and said Mollie was too sharp to be an attorney. "Renée has met Gary many times and we've had him to dinner a few times. She met you for the first time only three weeks ago."

"Oh, I see."

"Do you think she wants to poison you guys to give me an uncontested run to gain associate status?"

"No," Mollie said calmly. "The review committee if it's doing its assessment properly would view candidates individually and then view the field collectively in the final assessment to choose the top candidates. Their present location within the firm would be of no consequence because attorney's migrate within to firm to widen their experience."

Paul looked at Mollie impressed but made no comment. "Tonight at 7:30 for drinks?"

Gary nodded and Mollie said, "How sweet. Please tell Renée we are delighted to accept."

When Paul left Gary asked if his grandmother had been talking to Mollie about the system of appointing associates.

"No, what I said was how I thought professionals would conduct such a selection: they would review the pack against performance and depth of experience records, reduce it to finalists and then attempt to rate them in order and then cream off the required number from the top. That's logical isn't it since there is no written test or a series of individual interviews?"

"Yes, quite. Good thinking."

"Gary, just a nod to accept a dinner invitation is a little ungracious, don't you think?"

"Oh yeah. You've been at me about that before."

"Gary!"

"Yes, you are quite right and have attempted more than once to sharpen up my act in socialization. I've let you down."

"I would prefer you saying you've let yourself down Gary but I am mindful that Rome wasn't build in a day."

Gary grinned: "Quite."

Dinner was French banquet-style and delicious, although a little over-powering for the guests. Renée spent much of her early life in France and her mother had grafted that country's regional styles of cooking on to her. When they settled down for coffee Renée asked, "Who do you think will attain associate status Mollie?"

"I haven't a clue Renée. Some of the attorneys are little more than faces to me. Why do you ask?"

"Um, well, Paul mentioned he thinks you are a hot favorite."

"Me? He's pulling your tit, oh I mean leg," Mollie said, coloring deeply. "Sorry about that."

The others doubled up in laughter and would have been mindful that Renée was rather over-endowed on the chest.

"Paul?" Renée said, wiping away laughter tears.

"That was a comment not meant for broadcasting," Paul said. "In your total performance you shine like a lighthouse Mollie. That's a tribute, not jealous condemnation."

"Me? I've only been at the firm five minutes."

"We would have to assume the panel have high regard for potential as well as current performance levels," Paul said. "What do you think Gary?"

"I think your lighthouse analogy hits the button. Our woman from Montana has through sheer performance has blasted away any prejudices about being young, being from Montana and being female. She stacks up against front-runners on inescapable merit."

"Inescapable merit?" Renée said. "Wow."

"Don't listen to them Renée. I'm being teased."

Paul and Gary denied that, leaving Renée quite confused. 

"Do you have children?" Mollie asked Renée. "I did notice pictures of your two with an infant."

"Yes, Katrina. She's eighteen months and asleep. Would you like to see her?"

"Yes may I?"

They left and the men began talking about a new film touted as being the next blockbuster that was about to open.

"You weren't being teased," Gary said as he drove home. "It was interesting hearing what Paul said. I was aware he'd gained respect for you but had no idea it had risen in his head that you were his biggest threat."

"Well, you can tell him to relax," Mollie practically shouted. "If associate status is miraculously offered to me I shall refuse. There's no way will I stand in your way. How many are likely to be granted?"

"Two, perhaps three."

"Well then, that's it. I'm out of contention and if it's offered I'll refuse. May we speak about something else; this is boring."

They drove home in silence until entering the underground parking lot. "Mom has asked me to say something to you gently, that no way am I to upset you by broaching the subject. She thinks it will go down better if I put it to you. If this a good time?"

"Yes of course," Molly said.

"Mom wants your cooperation. She wants to take you to Montana to attempt a reconciliation between you and remaining members of your family."

Gary heard the air empty from Mollie's lungs. She then remained silent. Gary parked and gave her a little more time before saying, "Mollie?"

She spoke very flatly for her. "Very well, I don't mind her trying and will cooperate fully. But she's not to go overboard on this. Do you mind if I go up for a swim alone? I have some thinking to do."

"No, not at all. Good thinking."

* * *

Next day Elaine called Mollie and arranged to meet for lunch. Elaine, wearing a multi-red sundress, watched Mollie in a black suit with the skirt length impossible high for an attorney, but then Mollie was Mollie. They kissed chastely and sat.

"It is lovely seeing you again, I've missed you. For that reason I wish Gary was still living at home but then I guess from your point of view the opposite applies because your sex life is on the up?"

"Oh you are not being neglected Elaine and yes you are very correct about my sex life. It is up very often."

They laughed easily and then Elaine said, "I have a secret to share. Promotion for you is imminent."

Mollie eyed the informer of that news. "How many candidates are there?"

"Six as I understand, for two slots."

"Are Gary and Paul Rose candidates?"

Elaine asked, "Can I trust you not to divulge?"

"You trusted me enough to probe your tongue into my mouth recently."

Elaine blushed, smiled and whispered, "Bitch!"

They waited as the Chablis was poured. Elaine said, Paul Rose is, Gary isn't."

Mollie said, "Elaine I trust you to do this for me. I want you to use your influence to have my name removed and substituted with Gary's -- my name removed, not anyone else's name. Do you understand? What I'm saying is I firmly believe Gary is ready and will flourish."

"Is that the truth?"

"For God's sake Elaine, don't you trust me?"

"Ohmigod, Gary's ready. So soon, how can this be?"

Mollie grinned. "I could say because being with me he's learned how to fuck properly and that's emphasized his manhood, but that's only part of the story. The primary reason is being removed from you lot. You haven't seen much of us because every time he's suggesting going to see you lot I have successfully diverted him. However, I believe the weaning is complete. He's ready to be exposed to the family again and I'm confident he won't be unduly influenced. He's found himself Elaine."

"You make us sound a wicked lot." 

"Individually you are fine people but collectively you three had a powerful and may I say not altogether wholesome influence on Gary."

"Oh God."

"Please don't fret. It was unintentional. Gary just had to be taught how to stand up for himself and learn how to compete in a global sense. I've been hard on him but he's worked at it tirelessly because I'd convinced him he could achieve breakthrough."

Elaine patted Mollie's arms and wiped one eye.

Mollie giggled. "I used sex as his reward and he's become awfully good at it. Now that you know that you're probably see just a tiny swagger in his step because he's become switched on about pleasuring a woman."

"But you don't know about that globally. He's only been with you."

"Not true. He's managed to noble my two closest friends Sarah and Margo and Sarah's married sister who is such a slut she goes under the restaurant table to gobble her target. That nympho told Sarah that Gary's about as good as they come, if you excuse the pun."

Elaine laughed and pressed Mollie's arm again, her eyes expressing gratitude. Then she smiled grimly, "The miserable jerk, doing the dirty on you like that. Your three friends."

"Only two friends actually, the sister even looks treacherous. I have no claim for loyalty from Gary and I believe he only wished to experiment to test his belief that he'd also made the breakthrough with women. Sarah and Margo both have been as friendly as possible with him without risking getting up my nose so obviously they were on tap. Sarah's sister would have just helped herself."

"You are so modern but I'm disappointed he's strayed from you."

"Please don't say anything, even hint anything to him about this. My feeling it was temporary and is over. Both Margo and Sarah say it's little wonder I have such a contented expression when I meet them."

"The must be really good friends to speak to you so openly."

"We are friends because we operate with all channels open. They told me because they thought they owed it to me to mention that Gary might not be the loyal guy I thought he was. Both were amazed when I expressed me delight that Gary was emerging from his shell."

Elaine shook her head and said Mollie has such an amazing attitude. "I will present your suggestions to Stephen and mom. Do you mind if I say it's your suggestion?"

"Please do. I want them left in no doubt. I want Gary elevated ahead of me if indeed my elevation was being considered. Gary won't disappoint them, they can be sure of that although his take-off will be slower than perhaps expected. In fact you could make the suggestion that I be transferred to Family Law if there's a vacancy. It's best now that Gary is left to proceed on his own but I'd hope he decides to continue living with me. We have become very attached, although we've made no declarations. There is no hurry about that."

When coffee arrived Mollie asked, "Is my success with Gary connected with your attempt to broker a reconciliation between me and my family?"

"Of course not." Elaine then had a rethink. "Only in that I love you and want to try to help realign your past by helping to eliminate sibling animosity."

"Why."

"Because I feel it's the right thing to do."

"And not because it presents an opportunity to sleep with me while we're away?"

"Of course not, definitely..." Elaine's indignant expression turned into an impish smile. "Now that you raised that matter, I can't say I'm ready to reject the suggestion. Please be nice when answering that."

Mollie decided to say how she felt honestly. "To be truthful when thinking about you and me in that way I wasn't revolted. I did experience same-gender sex at college."

"I did too and have had the occasional encounter since then, although none were anywhere near as satisfying as they were at college."

Mollie asked had Elaine played around with guys.

"This is how much I trust you Mollie. Mike Olsen who is in charge of Corporate and I are occasional lovers. I was at college with his oldest sister."

"Wow, taking on someone working in King & King. That's a little dangerous."

"So be it. Well then, is there a possibility of you and me trying it out?"

"If it wasn't for Gary perhaps I could have said yes. But the answer is no and my no won't change."

Elaine sighed. "Well he's cheated on you."

Mollie grinned and told Elaine to stop being naughty.

Three weeks later at the Friday morning attorney's meeting Stephen announced that Gary King and Paul Rose had been promoted to associate status. Gary had told Mollie a couple of days earlier after returning from the top floor that he had accepted the offer.

Gary looked at Mollie as he kissed her, feeling her excitement. "This is because of you."

"And you," she murmured. "If you hadn't committed to me totally I would have failed in my mission." 

Gary said he was happy to concede that.

On Thursday the next week Mollie and Elaine flew to Montana, landing at Billings, the agreed meeting place suggested by Mollie's brothers and sisters who were now scattered about the state. As they arrived at the hotel Elaine asked, "Did you book two rooms or a double room."

"A two bedroom suite actually but I'm prepared to sleep with you if that's what you want and to cuddle, but nothing more than that."

Elaine sounded a little panicky. "Mollie, I don't want you feeling you are under pressure."

"I'm not. Just make sure it doesn't stuff up my relationship with you and your family, right."

"Right," Elaine sighed deeply. "I promise."

Chapter 10

As the bellboy smiled at the size of the tip Mollie handed him and closed the door behind him, Mollie turned and looked at Elaine who appeared a little unhappy. "Come, you should look pleased you're not going to be fucked by another woman."

Elaine turned crimson and said weakly, "Mollie, that's absolutely disgusting."

They went down for breakfast next morning looking more like mother and daughter than age-mismatched lovers.

As they entered the restaurant someone screeched, "Mollie."

"That's my younger sister Shirley, mother of two. She's the nicer one. Po-faced Megan has four little sweethearts."

"Ah, Megan is dark and plump while Shirley is blonde and looks not unlike you."

"Does she. I always though she looks like a sexy slut."

Elaine smiled and said that's what she meant and received an elbow in her ribs, applied quite sharply.

"Jesus!" Elaine snorted.

"Don't be bothered by Elaine, she is somewhat religious," Mollie said airily, greeting her two sisters who looked anything but convinced. The introductions were made and Megan said the two brothers were due at 10:00. It was agreed they should sit around the pool with drinks in the meantime.

Elaine watched Brian and Clem walking towards them. Mollie had told her Clem the younger brother looked like a gangster. As she was introduced to Brian they shook hands and Elaine felt his thumb bend inwards and tickle her palm as he stared at her breasts. She thought there was little doubt he'd be under her panties if she gave him the slightest encouragement. As for shifty-eyed Clem she thought what a grease-ball who probably was a danger to younger guys. It seemed the boys and Megan must have taken after their father while Shirley would have fitted between both parents. For Mollie to have soared above mediocrity like she had in looks, intelligence, drive and fortitude, she must have been substantially been like her mother or had thrown-back to her grandparents.

Elaine beckoned over a waiter and asked everyone to name their preference. The waiter returned with two bottles of white wine in coolers and a dozen bottles of beer surrounded by icy water in an insulated covered bin on the trolley.

"This is classy," Brian said. "It's the hottest day we've had so far this summer. Tell me Elaine what is the real reason you contacted us about a family reconciliation as you called it? When Mollie ran off it was just fine with us."

"It's simple Brian. I could see Mollie wasn't happy about it. I have befriended her and she has performed magnificently in tutoring my son to learn how to live in the real world."

"What, by taking him to bed," Brian leered.

"Or was he spastic," Clem laughed.

Megan chipped in. "Shut up you two. Elaine is a very nice lady. I reckon she believes Mollie and her son will marry."

"Is that right Mollie?" Clem asked.

Mollie shrugged and lifted her glass to her lips.

Clem persisted. "Answer me bitch. You're not out east now."

Megan bent over to her handbag and pulled out a pistol. "It's loaded Clem so don't push your luck. I'll not allow you to mess up this meeting. The only thing you can be assured of is I won't actually kill you if I decide to put a bullet into you. Shirley and I are unhappy Mollie no longer considers herself part of family. And Brian, what say you?"

Brian quickly said, "Put that toy away. You'd need a shotgun at close range to put Clem down. I'm easy about Mollie.

"That's as good as the answer I hoped for Brian. That rather leaves you out on a limb Clem."

"Well, I've always given her a hard time but I've never actually disliked her," Clem confessed.

"Her name is Mollie," Shirley snapped.

"I was talking about my sister Mollie," Clem mumbled.

Mollie stirred and looked directly at Brian. "Well, that leaves me feeling a little better about you Brian. Your bullying was short and sharp, not like Clem that went on and on. He missed out when intelligence was spread around. With you Brian I know it's part of your nature and upbringing and I blame father for that."

"You're damn right. You girls will never know how he treated me before you two came along."

Shirley said, "I was often hit for sticking up for you but the first time Mollie jumped in to your defense we all thought dad had killed her."

Mollie said that was enough of that talk.

Brian looked at the ground. "I've not forgotten that Molly but as you know I'm such a jerk."

Elaine smiled. "Well, it's early days but I think we have made progress here. Tell me, if Mollie should choose to marry my son would you and your families come to the wedding, at my expense of course?"

"What, air fares, hotel and babysitters for the kids?"

"Yes Brian. Return airfares and three nights at the hotel."

The family including Mollie looked at Elaine in astonishment. Shirley looked at Mollie and said, "You didn't know anything about this did you Molls?"

Mollie, who hadn't been called that name in years, looked at Shirley and shook her head.

"Ohmigod, talking head Molls is all choked up," Megan said in awe. "It's rare indeed to see her like this."




Mollie from Montana Ch. 07-11



"I make no apology for being gobsmacked," Mollie said. "Elaine's son and I live together but we have never discussed a long-term relationship although I admit Elaine has told me she'd welcome that happening. I now find the generosity of that offer over-whelming but must say you should not take a marriage or similar commitment for granted."

Brian asked, "Why would you do this for Mollie?"

Elaine stared at Brian. "I hope my answer is not too sensitive for you Brian but I need to express it as it is for you to understand. On her second day in our city Mollie happened to bravely confront a guy who threatened my mother. The two women fell into a conversation and my mother-in-law is a feisty, sharp-minded attorney who's dealt with a huge variety of situations and people in her lifetime. Yet Mollie just blew her away by her sheer presence, her belief in herself and the sheer power of her mind. I really think my mother-in-law realized she had met unstoppable Mollie, the epitome of herself of more than forty years earlier. My mother-in-law called me to advise she would bring home to dinner that evening a woman who was so amazing she'd recruited her on the spot. My mother-in-law is not one to do flighty things or to be overly impressed on meeting people for the first time so I imagined she'd found a doctor of laws, perhaps in her late forties with a reputation longer than one's arm. Please try to imagine my astonishment when my mother-in-law arrived with a beautiful and charming lady no older than thirty who was introduced to me as Mollie from Montana. Briefly, until I too was possessed, I thought my mother-in-law who lives with us had finally flipped."

"Mollie from the time she was about ten was always like no other female I knew, except perhaps grandma before she went nuts," Brian said.

"Yes, Mollie was so unlike the rest of us," Megan said. "Such a challenge, so ruthless and such a know-all. I began to hate her but that evaporate the first time I saw her holding my new baby. Stan and I were still not married then."

"I wanted to be like her but she wouldn't let me in," Shirley said, whipping aware a tear. "She claimed she didn't know what I was talking about and said she was just ordinary although softer than us because she felt she was like mom. Say something Clem." 

"What can I say? Once a bitch always a bitch. I could never understand her. It really hurt me when she became dad's favorite. It should have been me if he'd gone off Brian."

Elaine said. "Ah, I took the liberty of ordering lunch. He it comes."

Mollie and her family watched in surprise and four kitchen staff in whites wheeled trolleys towards them.

Over coffee Mollie found out from Brian the ranch had not sold. "Clem and I are still working it but the bank owns it. We can get it back for one hundred grand. We're actually into profit but it will take time building that up and will take money to do that so we are between a rock and a hard place."

"What bank?"

"Wells Fargo here in Billings that purchased the debt from Graylings Bank after two attempted auctions failed to meet the reserve price."

"So what now?"

"Our two families are staying put until we are thrown off the land, eh Clem."

"Right," Clem said. "At present the bank is happy taking half of the profit. Those sharks are waiting for cattle prices to peak again before selling our heritage."

Mollie asked would it be okay if she took Elaine out to the ranch and they meet back at the hotel at 6:30 for dinner."

"Yeah -- take my SUV and go anywhere you like," Brian said tossing his keys to Mollie. "Nothing's locked up and the women and kids have gone to visit their families and no casual labor is on the ranch at present. Have a good final look."

* * *

Elaine said crying, "Oh you poor darling, living in this hovel. It's a derelict, just as you described it."

"Yes but it was a roof over our heads. My heart wept for my mother in being kept there but when he mind wandered she talked about her younger days. I knew it was because she felt she was in familiar surroundings."

"The replacement ranch house is fine but lived in like a pigsty."

"Yes, Brian just doesn't care and his wife is an unfriendly and lazy bitch. She gets knocked around a bit but is an expert at keeping him unhappy."

Elaine smiled. "Those two sound as if they deserve one another."

"Exactly."

On the long drive back to the hotel Elaine said, "I don't know anything about ranches but that ranch didn't impress me."

"It's actually impressive country Elaine. Strong-hearted and well-watered except in times of exceptional drought and snowfalls are reasonably light. If you could see the cattle coming off our land in their prime I daresay even you would be very impressed."

"Our land?"

"Sorry, Freudian."

They drove some ten miles in silence until Mollie finally said, "I've got to do something."

"I thought you'd say that. I'll help."

"No, it's fine."

* * *

After dinner with the two guys ready to drive home and Megan and Shirley deciding they might play up a bit, everyone happy and Brian actually kissing Megan who'd earlier in the day had pulled out a gun on him, Mollie said, "Hey guys, your attention please."

Mollie reached into her handbag. "Brian and Clem, here is a check for one hundred grand made out to the bank to get our family ranch out of hock. I am the one with money at present so owe it to mom and dad and our paternal grandparents to do this."

Brian and Clem burst into smiles and their two other sisters shrieked in joy. They gathered around Mollie and kissed her, Elaine looking on with delight.

"Please don't regard this as an attempt to buy favor guys and I know you are all too smart to let me get away with that. Brian and Clem I want you two guys to build up profitability because that is your future so here is a check for fifty grand each to do with it as you wish. I cannot leave you out Meg and Shirley so here is fifty grand for each of you to do with it as you wish. Well, that's it and we have Elaine to thank for organizing this meeting that has turned out rather well, don't you think even without a few bucks flying around?"

"Yes," the family chorused, moving in on Mollie and Elaine.

Twenty minutes later Elaine and Mollie were walking arm in arm to their suite.

"You are a very lovely lady, Elaine said, squeezing Mollie's arm.

"Lovely lady, huh?" Mollie said. "Then what about you? Thank you for forcing this on us Elaine. It encouraged me to seize the moment."

Elaine said perhaps they should have asked Mollie's sisters up for a drink.

"Well you can forget them," Mollie grinned. "They've gone out whoring."

"Mollie, you cannot say that, they are your sisters."

"For years those two have for hunted down a likely guy for a few hours of raw sex. Little changes Elaine, believe me."

"T-then you mean that money you gave them all will be wasted?"

"Who knows? It's their money now, their decisions. I made that check out to the bank to bring Brian face-to-face with his responsibilities when the bank hands back title to the ranch. Brian is not as dumb as he looks and I'll bet Shirley will be calling him to apply a little pressure to save the ranch because she's a little like me. She'll see the big picture."

Elaine asked Molly did she want to go out.

"Whoring?"

"I-I didn't mean that but I'll come with you if you wish."

Mollie laughed. "No, let's stay in and get a little drunk."

Early next morning the two women chartered a small fixed-wing aircraft for a three-hour tour of southern Montana and early afternoon caught their flight home.

"That was spectacular flying this morning," Elaine yawned and did not hear Mollie's reply. When Elaine awoke she was asked had she and Stephen booked their cruise.

"No, I must get him to do that. He had every intention but has procrastinated."

"You take over and organize him and then get his PA to book it Elaine. If you don't you'll never go."

"Yeah, quite right."

Mollie and Gary had decided not to call each other while Mollie was away to see how they went, as it would be the longest time they'd separated since the day they first met.

Gary was at the airport to meet them, arriving in his father's car. He was all over Mollie and that excited her and they kissed and squirmed against each other until Elaine said patiently, "Oh hello Gary. I'm your mother."

"Oh hi, sorry. I've spent most of today room pacing. I hadn't realized long separations could be such a trauma."

Mollie's excitement showed. "Long separation, such a trauma? Oh really Gary, tell me more."

"I've never missed someone so much in my entire life."

Elaine said, "Oh really, what about me when you were young and I went to law conferences with your father or your grandmother."

"That was different. You were mom."

Elaine looked a little put out. "Oh really. And why should you miss Mollie and not me?"

"You wouldn't understand or remember at your age mom. What Mollie and I do is unspeakable, nay ever unprintable. Beside she fills my life and I love having her around, her being around me."

"Oh really," Elaine said, walking with the bemused Mollie behind Gary who was pushing their luggage trolley. "And have you not noticed these feelings of loneliness and the awakening of love before."

"No, I've never really felt lonely until now and what's this about the awakening of love. What are you on about mom?"

"Oh nothing Gary. It's unfortunate you believe I'm unable to remember my past otherwise I could tell you what you'll be feeling and thinking in another hour or so when you are between Mollie's legs."

"Mom, don't be so disgusting. You can't talk about Mollie like that. What on earth's got into you?"

"I'll say no more Gary."

"Thank you mom. Mollie, you are looking beautiful."

"Thank you Gary, but careful. You are in danger of exciting me."

"Awe, let it rip Mollie. Oh whoa, mom is with us."

Mollie tinkled a laugh and said she just adored the new Gary. He lost concentration and rammed the trolley against a line of empty trolleys. The guy in uniform pushing them glared at him.

"Sorry pal, the after affects of mid-air turbulence still have me crapped-out."

"I can imagine the feeling buddy," said the trolley-pusher. "Take care of him ladies."

Elaine smiled and thanked the man. "He wore diapers on the flight so he's okay."

Mollie and Elaine laughed when they saw Gary cringe. 

"Don't lie Gary unless you can carry it off with aplomb," Mollie said. "You are so funny today."

When they were in the car Gary turned to his mom in the back seat and said, "Dad made some important announcements at the Friday meeting. Harold Franks resigned on Thursday evening, effective immediately, and head of Corporate Mike Olsen was invited to purchase Harold's seat from him as a member. Mike's deputy takes over Corporate and Paul Rose becomes his deputy and Nick Castillo deputy in General Civic Practice replaced Paul and I am to replace Nick. I was also invited to become a partner and in due course dad will lend me the money to become an equity partner."

"My goodness, what a reshuffle," Elaine said. "Congratulations Gary, you'll get great experience in General Civic."

"Thanks mom."

"Me too darling, congratulations."

"Thanks Mollie. I guess Mike Olsen jumped ahead of a couple of senior contenders to take the vacant senior partner seat and that rated the most talked about shuffle. But there's one more to come. Malcolm Middleton also resigned on Thursday and the staff committee held an urgent meeting because he's deputy manager in Litigation. Congratulations Mollie, you are the new deputy in Litigation."

"Me, Litigation. Ohmigod. Why didn't you call?"

"We promised we wouldn't call Mollie."

"Mollie, that is wonderful. It's the next chapter in your fairy tale story, Mollie from Montana."

"It's not as unbelievable as you many think mom. As soon as the announcement was made the emails began flying. There were a couple of bitter ones but the consensus is Mollie that you are the best fit for that new deputy vacancy. Of course it would be the last position quite a few of the associates would want; they'd even see Probate and Estate Planning as being more desirable. With your mind you are made for Litigation Mollie."

"I would expect your grandmother agrees with you Gary. Now you know what this means don't you?"

"No," said Gary while Mollie said she thought she did.

"It means any day now Maureen will resign and Stephen will take her chair. She'll be given an office to conduct her business with her personal clients and will relinquish her chair as a member. There will be a new senior partner appointed and one of them will be appointed managing partner. I wouldn't count on spending much more than six months in any department Gary because you will be groomed to be appointed a senior partner in the not too distance future. Alternatively if you two decide to marry the new Mrs King will go head-to-head with you for that senior partner seat."

"No way would I complete against Gary."

Gary smiled. "Well we should wait and see what happens. Just tail me closely. It will be in dad's mind that when he ultimately steps down he'll want two Kings in the box seat to continue tradition."

Elaine said breathlessly, "Then you two are to marry?"

"Hush mom, it's something Mollie and I may wish to talk about soon, like when I'm resting between her legs."

They all giggled and Elaine said: "You know, your two are really made for each other. No way could Mollie survive a relationship under a dominating male. Remember Gary what has been said about Mollie indicating great potential. If you two were to marry Stephen would not shirk from influencing the senior partners to appoint the person they considered was the best one of you two to become managing partner."

"Mom, don't you think I haven't already worked that out. May I remind you my lights have been switched on."

"Oooh Gary. That's a splendid reason why you should not marry me," Mollie teased. 

Elaine blurted, "Mollie, that's a terrible thing to say."

Gary managed a weak smile. "Leave it mom. Although there is truth in what Mollie has just said, clearly she is teasing. Mollie can't be Mollie if she were to suppress her spirit."

"Yes of course, " Elaine said. "I must say I agree with that entirely. My word, not that Mollie has significantly assisted to turn you around you are becoming more liberal. I'm very pleased about that."

Chapter 11

Gary drove Mollie home and they were conscious that the heat between them was rising.

"I'm really keen about having you home," Gary began and had to defend himself when told it was sex rather than her company he really wanted.

"Both actually, in big dollops. I couldn't believe how much I missed you."

"So you've said, in front of your mother," Mollie teased. "She'll be thinking you're become a horny toad."

Gary ignored that, catching Mollie by surprise. "Look before you consent to having sex with me, there's something I want you to know. During the last few weeks I've been unfaith..."

"Gary, stop!" Mollie said sharply. "There is no need to tell me. There is no arrangement between us about remaining faithful. If you feel the need to go off and shaft someone else all I ask is select carefully and wear a condom because I have no wish to be put at risk."

"Are you sure you don't want to know?"

"I know Gary but I see no need for you to tell me."

"Jesus."

"I think I could be partly responsible, injecting you with new confidence and taking you sexually to new levels. It is understandable that you would wonder whether your breakthrough in sex would only apply when you were with me. The obvious way of finding out was to bop another female or two."

"Three actually."

"Spare me the detail Gary!"

"Oh."

They drove along in silence for a while.

"Did you take on any guy when you were away?"

Mollie asked, "Is that any business of yours Gary considering we haven't negotiated terms of our relationship so therefore it's an open relationship?"

"No, you're right."

"Good. For your information no guy attempted to plug me and I didn't look at making some guy happy."

"Right," Gary said looking a bit ashamed.

"Are we agreed on this, to say no more?"

"Yes Mollie only I must say I did wear protection."

"Good boy. Let's get into it as soon as we walk through the door. I feel a great need."

The vehicle surged forward under heavier acceleration.

They raced into the apartment, already aroused from heavy kissing when parking in the basement and groping in the ride up on the elevator.

"Gosh your breasts are hard and swollen," Gary said, digging them out.

"It's the petting and all my thinking about sex," Mollie said, thinking he'd be appalled to know that his mom had wanted to have sex with her. Gary bit a nipple and she screamed "Ow!" and her mind cleared and she sighed heavily.

"Sorry."

"It's okay Gary, your timing was more perfect than you realize. Mess around my clit darling."

"Do you want something to suck?"

"That will keep. Tease my clit Gary."

Later as his engorged cock popped from her mouth as Gary began to tense, Mollie said. "Before you push it in me Gary there's something I must tell you. I've stopped taking the pill and will be coming into my fertile time about now. Couples can go at it for months before there's a pregnancy while a few never succeed. On the other hand some women conceive surprisingly quickly."

Mollie and Gary were on the thick carpet square, just inside the doors of the lounge with its highly polished wood floor. Gary sat back slowly stroking to keep his erection at maximum readiness. They both looked at it as if thinking it looked fatter than usual. He was perspiring already and Mollie was dripping.

Looking a little anxious, "A pregnancy could kill your career."

"There never will be a good time Gary. It's pointless waiting until I'm old and retire before I regret not having my one or two babies."

"So you don't mind if I impregnate you?"

"Of course not. In fact I would feel privilege but I would not expect you to accept future responsibilities over such an event. At present I still consider myself safe for the next couple or so days but my responsibility was to tell you about this. Your cock appears to becoming thicker."

"I find this talk very arousing. So you don't want me to share responsibility for any offspring we produce?"

"Only if it's you wish to do that. You can fetch a condom is you wish."

"No it's okay and I don't feel under pressure, just surprised that you want to have a baby at this point."

"All I have decided was to come off the pill. My body will probably make the decision for me. My contract with King Law makes provision for pregnancy. Anyway I'm as certain as I can be that tonight I'm safe but advise you to think about having sex with me after the next couple or so days. Any questions?"

"No, I have full understanding."

"Good, push it into my mouth -- you have lost stiffness."

"My impression is that we are capable of making beautiful babies darling."

Mollie had to nod and signal with a thumb raised upright.

After a long session Mollie sent Gary up to the Jacuzzi adjacent to the swimming pool and she arrived a few minutes later with coffee and two thick sandwiches they devoured hungrily.

"I'll make toasted sandwiches when we go down, unless you want to eat out?"

"No this is great. When do you want to get married?"

"Mollie froze and then laughed. "Oh come on Gary, you should be trained well enough no to react adversely under pressure."

"Mollie, that's bullshit. People close to us are expecting us to marry. I believe you are keen enough to marry me but still not as keen as mom is to see it happen. For some weeks I have been kicking around the idea. I thank you for presenting the opportunity this evening to talk about it. Fuck, here come some people."




Mollie from Montana



Fifteen minutes later, on Maureen's instruction, Stanley called Gary to the chairman's office.

When he knocked Maureen smiled at Mollie and called brightly, "Come in Gary."

A lean guy with curly brown hair, less than sharply dressed and standing about 6ft 2in, entered and smiled at his grandmother and said "Good morning Mrs King."

"Hello Gary. I'll let you make the introduction Stanley.

"This is Mollie from Montana, Miss Mollie O'Rourke Gary. She is being employed to my department and at my suggestion it has been decided to team Mollie with you because she comes from a small rural practice where since graduating four years ago she's covered many areas of law and appears strongest in auto accidents and personal injury. Mrs King agrees Mollie would benefit from having a mentor so I suggested you before perhaps she did."

"Hello Mollie."

"Hello Gary."

"Why this practice – we don't have many female associates and none as a partner?"

Mollie looked at him unruffled. "That's rather archaic but isn't Mrs King a licensed attorney and a equity partner?"

"Yes of course, but that's different."

"Why is that Gary?"

"I'd rather not say."

"Come on Gary, I would think your grandmother won't bite your head off, but if you're that afraid when don't you get a position elsewhere."

"Because I'm a King."

"I am aware of that Gary. Do you think you can answer my question without stonewalling?"

"Neither my grandmother nor my father like female attorneys because they can be time-wasters, are too emotional and run off to have babies."

"Well, I'm not having sex at the moment so that perhaps answers any doubt about babies for the time being, I'm not afraid of men so that probably means I'm not too scatty and don't overload emotionally and I have a reputation for having my head down, ass up while working had to achieve success for clients with time being the essence. So perhaps I might fit into the office culture here but don't expect me to wear trousers every day, go without perfume or not to show cleavage especially on hot days."

"W-why are you t-talking like this?" Gary asked. 

Maureen and Stanley appeared spellbound.

"To convince you I want to become a pal Gary rather than be regarded as some dumb broad you've had foisted on you."

"I wouldn't pre-judge you."

"Oh asshole, now you tell me. Sorry to have put you through this Gary."

He grinned, she grinned while the two older adults pursed their lips and remained mute until it appeared the exchange had ended.

"Well, it appears we have run out of discussion," Maureen said dryly.

"Then it's okay if I show Mollie around the department and then take her to lunch?"

Maureen said of course and asked Mollie to return by 4:00 with relevant documents including her academic record. "Oh, we dress semi-formally for dinner."

"Oh, no cut-offs and bikini top?"

Maureen smiled indolently and said, "I see you can be quite a tease Mollie. Some of the seniors around here can be quite stuffy."

"I'll bear that in mind ma'am," Mollie said straight-faced and giving the chairman a full curtsy.

That drew a smile: "Around halfway between those extremes should be about right." 

As the young couple walked to the elevator Gary said, "I cannot believe my grandmother has decided to engage you as an attorney without you being put through the regimented recruitment process that includes confirmation of your academic qualifications and close examination of your performance record."

"I know; it's scary for the regimented, isn't it? I could be a silver-lipped charlatan. She really is flighty and patently irresponsible."

"Who, my grandmother? I think you don't understand. She has a well-deserved reputation..." He stopped when he saw Mollie's teasing grin. "I don't know how you achieved it but somehow you have impressed my grandmother deeply."

"Oh, I know I'm that kind of person," Mollie said airily and then as the doors shut struck like a snake. "Oh Gary, regarding my comment about being without having sex recently – are you able to help me out here?"

Gary cringed, knowing he was trapped. He fended instantly, croaking, "Is that any way for a lady to talk?"

The journey down to the second level was completed in silence.

They toured the department that took all of three minutes because only three of the six attorneys were in the room. Stanley's office and the connecting office of his PA faced down the room to the central line of desks of the four support staff with a conference table behind them and a small library and interview room at the end of the room with the entrance door on one side and the coffee center at the other end with a fire escape beside that. Three glassed-in cubicles for attorneys were on each side of the room – a bit cramped but functional, thought Mollie. 

The four support staff and Stanley's PA greeted Mollie warmly when she was introduced as a new attorney. The three male attorneys were guarded but pleasant enough. Mollie could see a question etched on their faces and surmised it was the same wording, 'Are we getting a fucking woman to assist with the workload?' The expression on the other attorney's faces changed to anything from surprise to bewilderment when Gary said, as if very impressed, "Mollie has been appointed by Mrs King as her protégé." 

Mollie resisted the instinct to kiss the darling for saying that because she knew it would assist in her induction. She knew the comment was akin to saying, 'Although this addition to the department is not male you are warned not to treat her dismissively unless you'd welcome my grandmother down here to wring you neck'. 

The reaction from the guys interested both Molly and Gary:

Burton: What is the largest personal injury claim you're achieved?

Mollie: $9.6 million in a pre-trial settlement.

John: I guess you sometimes have won in Court in auto accident actions?

Mollie: Sometimes. My success record in representing defendants is around 15% on acquittals, and touching 25% is winning reduced penalties on the comments of judges accepting convincing points in my submissions. Winning cases for my plaintiffs is in the low nineties.

Paul: What is an 18-wheeler?

Mollie: You're kidding me, right?

Paul (a little aggressively): If you are working with us we need to have confidence in you.

Mollie: A tractor and trailer unit. Typically the trailer has ten wheels on three axles – the front or street axle has two tires and the tow rear or drive axles with dual tires. The trailer is connected via the so-called fifth wheel more commonly known as the horseshoe and the trailer's eight wheels are on axles at the rear. The units are typically up to 80 feet long and are driven through 10-gears. loaded they weigh up to 40 tons and because of that weight take almost as twice as long as a car to brake to a stop. The driver must hold a current A-class commercial license and adhere to strict driving regulations. The trailer can jack-knife under severe braking or in adverse conditions. Rigs are involved in many serious accidents often caused by other road users. Some accidents are due to rig driver's falling asleep or being illegally affected by alcohol or drugs and some accidents are caused by inattentive drivers running into the back of a rig through inattention or attempting to 'draft' to cut down their fuel usage. I could go on. I have been through a training school for rig drivers and have studied causes of road accidents and know intimately the safety systems built into rigs and federal controls and regulations imposed by companies who employ rig drivers including drivers who own their own rigs. 

Paul (grinning): Thank you Mollie. I am more confident we haven't been landed with a bunny.

Gary: Look here Paul..."

Mollie: Leave it Paul. Can't you see that derogatory term is not aimed at me – Paul is smiling?

Gary: Agreed.

To be Continued