16 comments/ 27424 views/ 10 favorites Period of Adjustment Ch. 12-14 By: coaster2 Chapter 12: Coming Back to Earth Denis arrived home late Wednesday afternoon and we enjoyed another wonderful meal prepared by Cassie. It was her tradition to welcome her husband home from any road trip with something special, and I was the lucky addition to that table. After the meal and cleaning up the dishes, Denis and I retired to his study for a conversation. "Colin, I think I can say with some confidence that your problems with the River Riders are coming to an end. The man you encountered on Monday was freelancing. Apparently, he had come to Scarborough to make his own drug deal, unknown to the club members. As you've probably guessed, we have someone on the inside of the gang and that's why we're fairly confident of our information. "Turgeon must have recognized you from the past and decided to take a run at you on his own. Instead of informing his people, we're guessing he figured he'd be the hero of the day by taking you out. The gang itself has decided they've spent enough money and time on you with no results. You aren't a threat to them anymore, and most of the old gang is now either dead or in jail. The new boys don't know you and couldn't care less about the past." "I'm glad to hear it, Denis. I'm getting kind of tired of looking over my shoulder all the time." He nodded understanding. "I know. I also feel fairly confident that you can go back to being Colin Stewart. I've done some checking with various law enforcement agencies and your fingerprints are either not on file or there is no information that would cause you a problem wherever you went. I suggest you re-establish your proper identity when you settle on where you want to live. The last time we talked about it, you seemed to be thinking about British Columbia." "Yes. I think so. That's a huge relief, Denis. I don't know what you did or how you did it, but I'm really happy to be just Colin Stewart again. Just saying it in public takes a weight off my back." "I'm sure it does," he smiled. "I'm glad I could help." I booked my vacation and the flight was scheduled to leave early afternoon on the following Tuesday. I phoned Kayla and we planned on spending the coming weekend together. There was an American League hockey game at the Exhibition Grounds Saturday evening, and once again we could take the streetcar almost to the front door. With some advice from Cassie, I booked a reservation at a nice restaurant not far from the arena. We could walk there or take a cab if the weather was foul. The weather was cloudy and cool, but not unpleasant. We had spent the day downtown, exploring the shops and generally enjoying each other's company. We never seemed to run out of topics of conversation. Kayla was incredibly well informed, and I felt like a student as she caught me up on politics, lifestyle changes, fashion, and of course, motorcycles. We spent over an hour at a downtown Harley dealer, trying to decide if I wanted one, and if so, which one. It was fun. I thought it could wait until I was settled in Vancouver, but window shopping and listening to Kayla and the salesman talk shop was entertaining. I got the distinct impression she did her own servicing and likely some repairs as well. "Yeah ... I've put some later modifications on my bike. It started out life as a '92, but it's probably something like a '01 or '02 now. It doesn't have a lot of hours on it, so I'm pretty sure I can get a good dollar for it if I want to sell it or trade it in." She obviously took a lot of pride in her ride and I admired that. "I might look for a good used bike myself," I suggested. "Somewhere along the line, these bikes got more expensive than most cars." "Yeah, but cars aren't anywhere near as much fun." She was convinced that I was likely to buy a motorcycle and she was probably right. It wasn't until we were in the restaurant that I got a chance to talk to her about my plans. It was also time for me to come clean about my real identity. "Kayla, I think I owe you an explanation and an apology," I began. "I've haven't been completely honest with you about who I am." She looked up with interest, but not surprise. "My real name is Colin Stewart. You already know I was a CSIS agent and I was in prison for eight years. I changed my name to protect myself and my friends, but it didn't work. I'm sorry if I misled you, but I thought it was essential. Recently, Denis let me know that it wasn't necessary any longer. I thought you should know." I saw a small smile on her lips as she listened. "I was wondering when I'd get to know the real you. Cassie told me that you were someone special to them, but that you had gone through a very difficult time. I knew about the prison sentence and I knew you were with CSIS, but that's about all. I kind of guessed some of the rest. Cassie also told me about your latest adventure in the mall parking lot. You seem to attract trouble lately." She didn't say it in an accusatory manner. In fact, it was almost with a touch of humour. "Well, now that we've cleared that up, I hope you aren't put off. I'd like to get to know you better and I was hoping you might feel the same way." I looked at her for a clue to how she was reacting. "I thought we'd covered a lot of that ground in the last week. Just how much more do you need to know?" she grinned. "Uhhhmmm ... whatever you're willing to tell me." It was a desperation answer to an unexpected question. "I don't have any deep, dark secrets. I'm pretty much a 'what you see is what you get' kind of girl." "Well, I'm still surprised there isn't a lineup of guys trying to date you. You can't be unaware that you're a very beautiful woman." "I'm very selective about whom I date. I've been burned a couple of times and my longer affair made me think twice about relationships. But ... and it's a big 'but,' when Cassie talked about you in glowing terms, I listened. She and I think a lot alike. We don't look for a pretty face or some kind of macho image. She and Denis are perfect for each other, but they don't match up physically. I know I'm attractive, but sometimes that can be a handicap. The fact that you and I are spending some time together should tell you something, Colin." She was smiling as shared her thoughts. "Yeah, I guess so." Just listening to her cheered me up. I was beginning to get my confidence back. After all, if the woman was very picky and yet was willing to be with me, I should be flattered. I was flattered. "I've decided to go to Vancouver and meet with Harold next week," she said. "I've got some time off coming and I want to see what my opportunities are for a better job." I chuckled, "I'm almost sorry I can't be there to influence the outcome. Not that it would make any difference to Harold. He's deaf to my BS." "I think it's a lot more important for you to get yourself some rest and restore yourself. Cassie said you were going to St. Maarten. You're really going to enjoy it there. It's a fascinating island with two completely different parts. I was there a few years ago and loved it." "I'm looking forward to it, although I'd be a lot happier if you were there too." "Maybe next time," she smiled. I arrived at the airport the following Tuesday with the single carry-on that I'd been using. Kayla would be leaving tomorrow for Vancouver and expected to return on the weekend. When we parted on Sunday evening, I wished her luck with a light kiss. We had progressed that far in our relationship. Still very little personal contact, but I wasn't going to rush it with her. There was too much at stake. St. Maarten/St. Martin was an amazing experience. Two different cultures, Dutch and French, alive and well on one Caribbean island. There were times during that two week stay that I thought I was in the south of France once again. I rented a scooter on my first day. It proved to be the perfect transportation on the little island. I shaved off my goatee, and began to acquire a tan. Every day had sun, even when a shower or two passed through. The temperature was warm without being stiflingly hot. A breeze was common, and I was happy in my light shirt, shorts, and sandals. My room was comfortable and more than big enough. The food at the hotel was excellent, as it was in several of the restaurants I tried. It took a few days, but nearing the end of the first week, I could tell how much more relaxed and at ease with myself I had become. I had plenty of time to think, but gradually, I was able to erase the memories of my past. I had even begun to get over my hatred of Taggart. He was dead and I could forget about him. Natasha was different. I hadn't yet forgiven myself for her death. It would stay with me for a long, long time. I was finding myself thinking more and more of Kayla Van Sand. I hadn't even really kissed her, and yet she was in my thoughts constantly. We were both being equally cautious, perhaps afraid of more disappointment. I wanted to take our relationship further, but I was nervous about pushing her too soon or too hard. Was I being too careful? By the time I boarded the aircraft to return to Toronto, I was satisfied that I had learned a lot about this Caribbean island. I was even reasonably confident that I knew how I wanted my life to proceed from here. What was left to be decided was whether I would be charting that path alone or with a partner. I knew what I wanted, now it was left in my hands to obtain it. I phoned Cassie when I stepped off the plane that evening. It was after ten pm and I didn't want to disturb her when I finally got to their home. She answered quickly and told me she would wait up for me to arrive. Denis was out of town once again and would be home tomorrow. I caught a cab and was at their home before eleven thanks to the light evening traffic. We agreed to talk about my vacation the next morning. I was tired from the long flight and Cassie normally didn't stay up later than eleven. We hugged, and I happily headed off to bed. It was beginning to feel like home and I thought that I might be taking advantage of my friends. I didn't want to overstay my welcome. Chapter 13: A Time for Decisions I slept in the next morning. When I finally awoke, it was after nine. I could hear Cassie moving about in the house, so I moved to the ensuite and went through my normal routine. When I walked into the kitchen, Cassie gave me her typical big smile and a kiss on the cheek. That thought about how comfortable I was here passed through my mind once more. "Good Morning, Colin. Your breakfast is in the oven. I gather you slept well?" "Yes. I think that vacation did me a world of good, Cass. I've been sleeping much better lately. Not so many bad dreams." "Wonderful. I was hoping that would help. You'll have to tell me all about the island. Do you think Denis and I would enjoy it?" "Absolutely! It's part French, part Dutch, and all beautiful." "I'd better start working on him then. He's due for a vacation in the new year, and I would love to show a winter tan." She paused, looking at me. "I just realized you shaved. With that tan, you look very sexy." I'm sure I blushed. We talked some more and I outlined the pleasures of St. Maarten/St. Martin. I think Cassie was serious about going there. After I had finished my breakfast and cleaned up the dishes, I poured a second cup of coffee and we sat again at the kitchen table. "Kayla came to see me last Sunday, Colin. She was asking a lot of questions about you. I think she is very interested in you, but she is being very careful. I don't think she can stand being hurt again." I nodded my understanding. "It wasn't until after she was involved with that man that he told her he was married. She was already in love with him and was torn whether to break it off or continue. She let the affair drift for a few weeks before his wife discovered the truth. When it came down to it, he wasn't going to marry her. He was just happy with having a mistress. Kayla didn't realize that until it was over. I think that hurt more than anything. She thought it was love and he didn't." "Well, she knows I'm not married. She knows I'm not the kind of guy the jumps from one girlfriend to another. I don't know what I can do to prove I'm sincere. We haven't been intimate, so ... I don't know quite what to say or do that will convince her I'm genuine. "Even then, we don't know each other that well. There are no guarantees in life. I find her fascinating and exciting and beautiful. But that doesn't mean we are right for each other. I've been burned too. Maybe not the way she has, but enough to make me careful and patient as well." I know Cassie understood and believed I wanted what was right for Kayla too. She knew me well enough not to worry about my motives. I hoped that she had passed that assurance along to Kayla. "You should phone her tonight. I'm sure she'll want to talk to you about your trip and her interview. I got the impression she didn't want to tell me about it so I wouldn't spoil it for you. That sounds good, doesn't it?" "I hope so. I had visions of her and me working together. Kind of a new-age Nick and Nora Charles." She was genuinely astonished. "My god, Colin, are you that old that you remember them?" I laughed. "No ... but I'm a big fan of old black-and-white mystery movies. We had a big library of them at Kingston. So ... maybe John Steed and Emma Peel?" Cassie laughed. "In your dreams, Colin, in your dreams." "We'll see, Madam Simard. Time will tell." I couldn't wait to talk to Kayla and phoned at five that afternoon. "Oh, Colin, welcome home! How was your vacation?" She sounded very up. "Great! I enjoyed every minute of it and I think it did me a lot of good. I feel a lot more grounded today than when I left. And how about you? How did you make out with Harold?" "Why don't we talk about it in person? Are you free? Can you come here?" I looked at Cassie and she nodded, almost knowing what the question might be. "Yeah. Can I pick up something for us to eat? Do you like Chinese?" "Sure, that will be perfect. I've got some wine and we can have a nice evening and tell each other about our adventures." It was less than an hour later when I arrived at Kayla's place. Cassie had given me a menu from her favorite Chinese restaurant. Even great cooks enjoy take out food now and then. I phoned in an order and picked it up on the way. It was still hot to the touch when I delivered the large bag to Kayla's kitchen counter. "My God, Colin! There's enough food here for six people," she laughed. "I wasn't sure what you liked, so I brought a nice variety," I offered meekly. Kayla was shaking her head. "Let me get the plates out of the oven and you can open the wine." Kayla was right. There was enough food for at least six people. We chose some items that could be frozen and then heated again. At least there wouldn't be too much waste. When we got further along in the meal, I couldn't contain my curiosity any more. "So tell me, how did you make out with Harold?" She grinned like the Cheshire Cat. "I have a job offer. The role is perfect for me ... industrial counter-espionage. The salary is better than I'm earning now and the benefits are at least as good. All in all, I couldn't be happier. Plus ... I really liked Harold. He's a pro and you can sense he doesn't put up with any nonsense. You play by the rules if you want to work for him." I was nodding my head in agreement. She was exactly right. "That's Harold, all right. I'm happy for you, Kayla. It means we'll likely be working on the same team, assuming Harold still wants me." "Oh, he wants you all right. He might have been kidding when he said my employment was conditional on getting you to sign on the dotted line." "When do you start?" "Two weeks from Monday. I've handed in my notice last Friday and I'm done a week from Friday. I don't think there'll be any tears shed at York." "Dumb bastards! You'd think they'd know better by now. Oh well, their loss is our gain. Harold won't let you spin your wheels." "I'm excited about it, Colin. I can't thank you enough for giving me this opportunity. Without you, I'd never have known about it. I owe you a lot." "Good. I'll have to think of ways you can repay me," I smirked. "I've been working on that. I have some ideas." I could see the laughter in her eyes. She was happy, and that made me happy too. "What about a place to live?" I asked. "I'm already searching on line. It's a bit more expensive, but I should be able to find something. There are some nice, small condos for sale on the old Expo '86 site. I don't need much space. This place is just 1100 sq. ft. and it's plenty big enough. I'm hoping to find a place with a view." "I think your timing is probably pretty good. There should be some bargains around right now with the slumping market. That won't last long, so grab something you like while you can." "Where are you going to live?" she asked. "Don't know yet. Probably rent until I find something I really like. Like you, I don't need much space. It's more a matter of location. Of course, we could always go in together and share," I grinned. She looked a bit startled for a moment, taken aback by my offhanded remark, but said nothing. I decided to leave it at that. It was a smart aleck thing to say in the first place. I didn't want to spoil the good mood. I should have known better than to say it. When I went back to the Simard's later that evening, I had a lot to think about. I wondered just how offended she might have been with my glib suggestion. It didn't seem to be a big deal for the rest of my visit, but I felt on edge and more than a little careful with my comments. I think Kayla might have picked up on that too. We had lost that comfort zone we were in, and it was entirely my fault. As I lay in bed staring at the ceiling, I started to form a plan. The cat was out of the bag as far as my feelings for Kayla went. Who was I kidding? I was in serious lust for the woman. The fact that we would be working in the same office, if not together, wasn't going to lessen that feeling. I also suspected she would be the object of interest to any single man within fifty miles. Hanging back to see what might happen wasn't an option. It was always better to take the initiative. Once my mind was made up, I was able to get to sleep. I knew what I wanted to do. "Cass, I'm going to head back to Vancouver tomorrow. I need to get my car in Kelowna and I want to find a place to live before Kayla gets there." "Why? I mean, why before Kayla gets there?" She was startled by my abrupt announcement. "Well, don't say anything to her, but I'm going to find a place so nice that I can convince her to share it with me. She won't be able to resist ... I hope." Cassie laughed one of her famous belly laughs. "You think that will work?" she finally managed. "Don't know. But I'm damn well going to give it a try," I said with more bravado than I felt. "Colin, I think you're missing something here. You haven't told her how you feel about her, and I know she hasn't told you about her feelings either. Don't you think your plan will paint her into a corner ... a corner she might not want to be in just yet?" I stopped for a moment. She was right, of course. I was pushing her into a yes-no situation. I could read Cassie's thoughts. I might be making a blunder I couldn't recover from. So much for that plan! "What do you suggest," I asked in surrender. "Just what I said. Tell her how you feel. It's too early for either of you to commit yourselves. Both of you need time to find your feet. New jobs, getting over old, unhappy situations, a new city. Too much to put on either of you just yet. Take your time. Let it happen at its own speed. I know for a fact that Kayla has some feelings for you. She wouldn't be spending time with you if she didn't. She's that kind of woman. She doesn't waste time on losers. Just don't push too hard too soon." Period of Adjustment Ch. 12-14 I couldn't argue a single thing she said. She had pulled all my emotions into perspective. There is no substitute for good advice, and Cassie was loaded with it. I couldn't help a smile. She had become my surrogate mother. The older woman who could keep me from making mistakes. A woman with experience in life that would help guide me. I phoned Kayla just after six that evening, asking if I could visit her later on. She agreed and I said I would be there before eight. I wasn't giving myself much time to think about what I was going to say. I had already booked my flights to Kelowna. I would be there mid-afternoon tomorrow, rescue my car, and be back in Vancouver by noon the next day. I rang the chimes just after seven thirty, realizing I was anxious to see her again. She opened the door and stood for a moment, smiling at me. I stepped into the foyer and shed my coat, hanging it on the stand by the door. She welcomed me into the living room and offered tea, which I accepted. "Kayla, I've decided to go back to Vancouver tomorrow. It's time I began to organize myself and start my new job. I'm going to miss seeing you for the next ten days or so, but I think it's necessary that I go." She nodded, not looking sad, but certainly not smiling. "I'll miss seeing you too, Colin, but ... it won't be for long. Where are you going to stay?" "Downtown. There's a residence hotel near English Bay that I've booked for the next two weeks. I can decide to stay longer if I need to. It will give me a chance to look for a place at the same time. It's a two bedroom unit with two bathrooms. You're welcome to stay there when you come out. No strings attached," I hurried to add. She smiled. "Maybe I'll take you up on that, as long as I can contribute to the cost. It would be more convenient, wouldn't it?" I must have sighed audibly when she said that, because she almost burst out laughing. "Are you really that nervous of me?" The pressure was off, all of a sudden. "Yeah. Yeah, I guess I am. I'm trying very hard not to do or say the wrong thing." "Why?" "That should be obvious. I'm very attracted to you and I want to get to know you better and I'm hoping you want the same thing. I'm just being very careful." "You sure are," she said, still with a cheerful look. She rose from her chair and came to sit beside me on the sofa, sitting sideways and putting her arm around my shoulders. She leaned in and kissed me. I mean, she really kissed me. I couldn't help but respond. I don't know how long it lasted, but it wasn't quick. "Ohhhh ... Kayla ... that was nice." "Mmmmmm ... I thought so too." She pulled me in again, and I turned more toward her, my arms going around her to pull her even closer to me. Again, it was a long, sensuous kiss. She looked at me carefully, almost studying my features, my expression. I couldn't read what she was thinking, but it seemed like she was trying to decide something. "I think it's time we got to know each other even better," she whispered, rising from the sofa. She took my hand and I stood, following her to the back of the house. Her bedroom was nicely decorated, softly lit, but not overly feminine. The bedspread was partially pulled down, ready for a single occupant. She stopped at the side of the bed and turned back to me. I held her face in my hands as she began to undo the buttons on my shirt. She was removing all doubt about what she wanted, and I was just as sure it was what I wanted as well. It took very little time for us to undress one another and I marvelled at her incredible body. Soft, womanly curves with a hint of muscle in her arms, abdomen and thighs. She was what I imagined a female athlete would look like. I was strangely at ease with her. I'm not sure why, but it was a relief that I could concentrate on pleasing her and not worry about myself. I didn't expect it, but that was how the evening played out. I spent a great deal of time in foreplay, which she appreciated. She was quietly demonstrative, and I slowly and deliberately attended to each perfect part of her. When we finally joined, it was almost a natural, familiar movement. We were completely in tune with each other. Nothing needed to be said and nothing was held back by either of us. We were finding pleasure in each other without any constraints. It was a first for me, and I wondered if it might be a first for Kayla. "That was lovely, Colin. I didn't expect it to be so perfect and so satisfying," she said as we lay beside each other. She rolled on her side, facing me. "You didn't surprise me, though. I sensed you weren't going to rush me. You spent a long time proving that." Her sultry smile and compliments were my reward. There wasn't anything I needed to say in response. We were silent for several minutes, basking in the afterglow. At last, I expressed my hopes. "I'm sorry I have to go. Perhaps when you get to Vancouver, we'll be able to do this again?" She smiled. "Count on it. I could use a steady diet of a considerate lover. You've left me with a very complete feeling, and I'm going to want more. It's a very nice experience." When I left later that evening, I was walking on air. Out of nowhere we had connected, and Kayla made it plain she not only had no regrets, but she wanted to further our relationship. What more could I ask for? I said my good-byes to Cassie and Denis the next morning at the breakfast table. I was very grateful for their hospitality and their support during a very difficult three weeks. The vacation had been an inspired idea. Just the separation between the violent events previously, and the wonderful distraction of Kayla, had made my visit extraordinary. I called Kayla's cell later that morning as I waited to board my aircraft. We talked about staying in touch, which I promised I would do daily. She was already counting the days until the following Friday, when she would be free to fly out to the coast and join me. I would be counting along with her. My flights were on time and I rescued my Maxima from the parking lot and began the long drive to Vancouver. By the supper hour, I was past the summit of the Coquihalla Pass and decided to call it a day almost where I had started this journey three weeks earlier. The motel in Hope still had a vacancy, and the nearby pub was open with a few patrons. Throughout the flights and my drive, my mind was almost exclusively focused on Kayla. The unexpected encounter last night had been a wonderful surprise. I was inventing all sorts of scenarios relating to our reuniting next week. She seemed willing to share the residence hotel suite I had booked. I didn't want to take anything for granted, but I was thinking about trying to talk her into our looking for an apartment or condo that we could share. I was going to call her when I realized it was almost eleven pm in Toronto. I would call her tomorrow morning as soon as I got up. In the meantime, I flopped in one of the pub's lounge chairs and waited to be served. A pint of ale and a steak sandwich later, I was feeling very relaxed and fairly certain I wouldn't have any trouble sleeping that night. "Hi Kayla. I'm sorry I missed calling you yesterday. I forgot about the time change." "Don't worry about it, Colin. I'm glad you called this morning. You arrived safely, I take it." "Yes, it's crazy ... me forgetting to call you. I was thinking about you all the way out here." "I've been thinking about you too. You were ... very gentle, very caring." "I didn't feel as nervous as I thought I might be," I admitted. "Cassie told me you were someone special. I didn't really know what to expect. If she knew what we did, she'd be laughing right now, probably thinking what a brilliant matchmaker she is." "Well, in fairness, it wouldn't have happened if she hadn't introduced us. I owe her for that. She always seems to be looking after me ... one way or another." We talked a little more before we said goodbye with my promise to call her tomorrow. I drove directly to the hotel and checked in before noon. There were plenty of suites available and I chose one on the eighth floor with a view of the bay. It didn't take me long to get settled, and I struck out to find a restaurant for lunch. It was a sunny Friday, and the streets were full of people hurrying in both directions along the sidewalk. I left a message for Harold that I had arrived in town and would check into the office Monday morning if that was convenient. He had my cell phone number to confirm an appointment. I left the car at the hotel and caught a cab, asking the driver where I would find some decent menswear shops. It was time to improve and expand my wardrobe. The driver's English language skills were limited, but he got the message and a short while later he deposited me at a busy city intersection. Some careful exploration, I turned up a very nice independent men's shop in a large upscale mall right at the city center. I was under no financial constraints, and with the assistance of an experienced salesman, I found three suits, three more pairs of slacks, two sport coats and a navy blazer, several shirts, sweaters, and ties. I think I made his sales quota for the week that afternoon. Then again, he had what I wanted, and he figured out what I looked best wearing. I took the shirts, ties, some socks, the blazer, the sport coats, and sweaters with me while the rest of the items required minor alterations. They would be ready Monday afternoon, and I could pick them up then. I was about to go to work for a professional organization and I wanted to look professional. I had the weekend to myself and I chose to go exploring in my new city. I took a tour bus from the hotel and counted it as a very good decision. The driver was knowledgeable and the sights and sounds of this modern city were interesting. Fortunately, I had chosen a sunny day. On the spur of the moment, I decided to take the Skyride to the top of the local ski mountain and have dinner there. Again, I chose a cab for transportation. I phoned Kayla each day, just let her know how much I missed her and looked forward to seeing her again. She had made her plane reservations and would arrive late Saturday morning. It couldn't come too soon. In the meantime, I arranged some flowers to be delivered Saturday morning to our room. I bottle of good champagne would be in the refrigerator, along with a nice selection of red and white wines, cheeses and fruit. A very elegant restaurant was available just around the corner from the hotel, and I booked a reservation for seven pm. I could always cancel it if Kayla was too tired. I met with Harold on Monday. He had left a message late Friday afternoon that I could come in anytime on Monday morning. He was delighted I was back and was anxious to get me started. We would delay the indoctrination process until Kayla arrived, but I got an opportunity to familiarize myself with some of the staff and their assignments. It kept me occupied, which was good. It seemed like the ugly events of the past were slipping away and I was ready to start again. A new life and someone to share it with? That was my hope. The days seemed to stretch out forever until Saturday finally arrived. Even though we had talked each day, sometimes twice, I was as excited as if I hadn't seen her for months. When I saw her walk into the baggage collection area I felt a jolt of relief. I walked quickly toward her. I could see her smile the minute she saw me and I knew everything was going to be great. She walked right into my arms and the kiss we shared was long and passionate. "Welcome. I can't tell you how happy I am to have you here," I murmured. "Me too. It's all I've been thinking about. A new life in a new city and ... maybe ... a new man too?" "Only maybe?" I asked, a bit disconcerted. She smiled, "We still have a lot to learn about each other, Colin. But ... I definitely like what I've learned so far." I must have breathed a sigh of relief. She was almost laughing at my concern. The luggage finally arrived and I took her large, wheeled bag and a garment bag while Kayla picked up her carry-on. Within five minutes we had checked out of the parking lot and were moving toward the city. As I drove, we talked about her trip and what she had been doing in the past week. She had supper with Cassie and Denis last night and had a chance to thank them for introducing us. I seconded that. She had made arrangements to ship her furniture and motorcycle out when she found accommodation. She had sold her car to a neighbour at a reduced price. Their son needed transportation to college. The townhouse had been listed for sale and her agent said he expected some very aggressive bidding on it. He seemed confident that the rule of location and the hot market for the product would surprise and please her. In the meantime, the rest of her clothes and her furniture were in heated and protected storage. I was sure she would like the hotel suite. It was a small apartment and would do until we found a place or places to live. "That's something we should talk about, Colin. I'm not sure about us living together yet. I'm fine with the hotel for now, but ... you'll forgive me if I'm being cautious. I want to be sure about us before we make a big commitment like that. I hope you understand." I nodded. I didn't like it, but I understood. I thought I was sure, but she was not. I wasn't going to screw up this opportunity by trying to force it. "I'm fine with that. Let's let things happen at their own pace. You are definitely worth the wait," I said as upbeat as I could be. She leaned over and kissed my cheek. "Thank you." When I ushered her into the suite, she was all smiles. I had left the living room drapes open, and the view out over English Bay and the North Shore mountains was at its best. Kayla stood before the window, gazing out over the vista. A dozen freighters sat at anchor awaiting berths in the inner harbour. Vancouver Island was silhouetted in the distance. It was a picture-postcard welcome and it buoyed her spirits. "When I was here a couple of weeks ago it was a bit gloomy, raining off and on. This is lovely. Now I know why people love this place." "Yeah. No snow on the mountains yet, but a month or two from now, you'll be skiing if you want to, or sailing, or playing golf." "Or maybe riding my Harley," she grinned. She took a nap that afternoon to prepare for our reservation at the restaurant. It was going to be a long day for her; she was still operating on adrenalin. The excitement of the trip and new city was still fresh. I didn't want to wear her out. I slipped into my bedroom and turned on the TV, watching a college football game while Kayla slept. I fell asleep myself sometime during the half-time. The excitement of having her here must have gotten to me. I awoke just before six pm and I could hear Kayla moving about in the living area. I gave myself a few moments to stretch and gather my senses before opening the door and joining her. Maybe I should have given myself more time. When I walked into the room, I stopped and stared at the sight before me. Kayla was in the midst of calisthenics. What caught my immediate attention was what she was wearing: a one piece spandex outfit that only barely covered all the essentials. There was no possible way she was wearing anything beneath it. I stood and watched, transfixed. If she was aware of my presence, it wasn't apparent. She was going through some sort of aggressive routine that was obviously familiar. When I caught my breath, I leaned against the doorway and took in the sensual beauty of her movements. Kayla was no lithe ballerina or gymnast. She was all woman, and the spandex was straining to contain that fact. My erection was becoming increasingly obvious, but I wasn't about to disturb her efforts. It was too erotic and too fascinating to do anything but watch. I finally figured out that she was aware of my presence. Some of the exercises required her to turn her head and she couldn't help but see me as she did. Still, I stood unmoving, mesmerized by her fluid movements. At last it ended. She bent over, her hands on her knees, breathing heavily as she began to recover from her efforts. "That was incredible," I said, finally finding my voice. She looked over at me and smiled. "I've been neglecting my exercises. I had to get back into my routine." "I know what you mean. I've been a month with very little workout myself. I did a bit when I was in the Caribbean, but very little since." "We'll, we can always work together, you know." It was all I needed to hear. "Done! Just name the time. Finding a spandex outfit like yours may be a problem, though." She laughed as I hoped she would. "I don't think that's what you need. Something more conventional I'd say." "You're not going to wear that out in public, are you?" "Well ... if I do I might add some undergarments. Wouldn't want to upset the natives, would I?" The banter had definite sexual undertones to it. "The natives aren't ready for that. Overkill, I'd say." She smirked and strolled around the living room, walking off her tightening muscles, stopping to stretch now and then. I remained leaning against the doorway, watching this elegant woman as she paraded in regal fashion. Her posture and stride were something to behold, further emphasizing her athletic beauty. It wasn't an act, it was who she was. If she appeared to be aloof, it wasn't on purpose. It was natural for her to be this way. I was simply happy to have broken through that barrier. "Time for a shower," she said at last, walking toward her bathroom. There was no invitation for me to join her, but I didn't expect one. Besides, I hadn't worked up a sweat other than in my imagination. Our dinner that night was excellent, just as I had been told to expect. Kayla wore a simple black evening dress, knee length with a modest display of cleavage. She apparently wasn't into more daring exhibitions of her natural beauty. That was fine with me as well. Even so, she had the attention of every red-blooded male in the room. Unlike the first time we had made love, I was much more keyed up and nervous later that evening. Perhaps it was the expectation, or just my desire to possess her body again. I had to calm myself down and the only way I could think of was to prolong my foreplay. Kayla, however, refused to cooperate. "No ... Colin. Don't ... I want you now. I've been waiting for this all week and I want you now." "Kayla ... I won't last too long. I'm sorry." She put her finger over my lips. "Leave that to me. I'm not going to be very long before I come either. I can feel it." We were both right. It may have been five minutes, but I doubt it. Nonetheless, she aggressively worked to get me ready for another session and with her expert assistance, it didn't take very long. The second time was much better and much more fulfilling, particularly for her. "We seem to be a good fit," I said as we lay in the aftermath. "Hmmmm. You work hard to please me. You're very unselfish. That's a rare thing for me." "I wouldn't feel as good as I do now if I didn't please you." "See ... that's what I mean." She was stroking my face with her fingertips and she wore a look of complete contentment. It was a contagious feeling. "Colin ... why don't we extend our stay here while we look for a place to live. I'll help with the cost. I like this place already, and I haven't even been here for a day." "Fine. Let's not worry about who pays. Besides, we don't want to rush into anything when it comes to buying property. If you're happy here with me, I'm more than happy to be with you. I get the benefit of two spectacular views; one outdoors and one indoors." Period of Adjustment Ch. 12-14 And that's how it worked out. We could walk to Orca's office while my car remained in the garage. By the end of the week, Kayla had a call from her real estate agent telling her that a bidding war had broken out over her townhouse. It was already a hundred thousand over asking price. She was dancing around the room when she heard that. It was one of those rare bursts of emotion that she displayed. Harold had indoctrination training scheduled for both of us to minimize the use of training resources. He would give both Kayla and me the same schedule and we could work together to absorb it. There was quite a bit of law study required, covering our rights and prohibitions during field assignments. Harold was very unforgiving when it came to obeying the law to the letter. His business success depended upon his ability to work with police agencies and get their full cooperation. Kayla found the week much easier than I did. She was already familiar with much of the assigned work while in the RCMP, so she could help me when we were reviewing the various sections. She became my tutor, and that was a big benefit to me. We got to meet a number of the other operatives. Lee Matheson was a specialist in insurance fraud, while the boyish appearance of Pete Dennison allowed him to work in youth environments more easily. He spent a lot of his time on drug usage among teens. Pattie Monahan was one of two women working in the office. She was a specialist in forensic accounting. She would be working closely with several of the staff on commercial theft and fraud. I had renewed our hold on the hotel suite for another four weeks. Both of us were comfortable in the unit. There was a small kitchen plus the privacy of our own rooms and bathrooms if we felt the need for it. From the first night on, Kayla and I were sleeping in the same bed. It was her choice, and one I heartily embraced. We had slipped into a comfortable relationship that encompassed sex, work, and play. We were actively looking for a permanent residence, but not with any great sense of urgency. I think Kayla was trying to make up her mind whether we should go in together, or look for two separate places. The longer we delayed a decision, the more it seemed that she was happy with the status quo. It was like a test drive to see if we could make it as a couple. I was in no rush to force a decision. In the meantime, I had applied for a driver's license and passport in my proper name. I was happy to discover there was no prohibition against my passport being renewed after an eight year gap. I was, once again, Colin Stewart. It was a small but meaningful victory, another step toward restoring my life to something resembling normalcy. Kayla had been somewhat careful at first, but I felt she had taken charge of our relationship recently. She was enthusiastic about the new job, of course, but after that first sexual encounter, I had let her take the initiative in telling me what she wanted. I was being overly cautious I suppose, but I was more worried that I would spoil what I already had. She must have picked up on that, and decided to lead rather than follow. As Kayla changed, so did I. I was more optimistic and enthusiastic about my future. As that happened, I began to automatically include Kayla in that future. I was being less selfish and more open about how we might be as a couple. Perhaps even a permanent couple. At least I was allowing myself to think about it. It was almost surprising to me that I was no longer thinking of her as just a beautiful sex object. I was, I had to admit, becoming more emotionally involved, and that caught me off guard. At the end of the second week, Harold pronounced us fit for duty and we were given our first assignments. Unfortunately, we would be working separately and at opposite ends of the city. I was to work with Lee Stephenson and a retail chain's security force to find out who was helping themselves to some of their inventory from their distribution center, and how they were circumventing the controls. Kayla was teamed with Pattie Monahan on an assignment that looked like an inside job: stealing personal financial information from a lending company. At the end of that first work week, we were both tired. Perhaps it was the tension of the new job and perhaps it was the culmination of all the effort we had put into the study and qualifications. Whatever, by the weekend, we were very ready to flop. Saturday we did some shopping at the big market on Granville Island, had a light supper, and retired early. I awoke early on Sunday morning and made coffee, waiting for Kayla to awaken. Neither of us had much ambition on that rainy day, so we just lazed about the apartment. In fact, I went back to bed for an afternoon nap around two o'clock. I woke up a couple of hours later with an arm around my waist and a very beautiful blonde snuggled up to my back. Her soft snoring told me that she was sleeping and I didn't move other than to hold her hand gently in mine. It gave me some time to think about us and our relationship. It was very important to me that Kayla was happy here. I found I was thinking of her often during the day. I looked for ways to please her. I thought about what I could do to help her or bring her closer. I wondered briefly what I would do if she chose not to stay with me. I simply couldn't get my head around that. I either couldn't, or wouldn't, allow that to happen. It was a matter of capturing her heart by whatever means necessary. So then, why wasn't I allowing myself to speak the "L" word? I played a children's game as I lay on the bed. It wasn't really a game ... more like a mental exercise, a grown-up version of picking the petals off a daisy. She loves me, she loves me not? Was it a question or a belief? Is that what was holding me back? Was I that unsure of how she felt about me that I couldn't express how I felt about her? I pulled an imaginary petal off. She's here living with me. She loves me. She won't commit to staying. She loves me not. We have sex regularly and it's great. She loves me. She's never told me how she feels about me. She loves me not. And on and on, the same things in different words. The same answers. What the hell am I upset about? I've got what I want. A beautiful woman and a job I'm sure I'm going to like. After the shit I've been through in the last months, I should be dancing with joy. What the hell do I have to push things for? Let Kayla make up her mind that I'm the guy for her. All I have to do is prove that it's the right decision. Treat her like a queen and she'll be convinced. I never realized how insecure I'd become. Why? Did Elise have anything to do with it? I didn't think so. Was I still living with the stink of prison locked into my head? After all, it was eight years of my life, almost a quarter of it. How much had that screwed me up? Did I need psychiatric help? Maybe ... but not right now. I must have been squirming as I worked these thoughts through my consciousness. Kayla closed her hand around my wrist and squeezed it. Not hard, but enough to let me know she was awake. "What's got you all upset?" she asked, her voice husky from sleep. "I can feel the tension and restlessness in your body." I didn't have an answer ready. I shrugged, sort of, reaching back to gently pat her lovely butt. "I'm okay. Just letting my daydreams get the better of me." She crawled up on my shoulder, hanging her head over it, stroking my temple. "Tell me about your daydreams." "Just thinking about how crazy my life has been in the last few weeks," I lied. "Yeah, I can see how that would give you nightmares, not just daydreams." We were quiet for a while. She stayed where she was, running her fingers lightly through my hair. I had the feeling she was watching me curiously, wondering what had got me so agitated. "Are you happy, Colin?" I snorted. "Yeah, crazy happy." I turned my body toward her, wrapping my free arm around her. "How could I not be? You are here. A new start for both of us. Yeah ... I'm happy." I was pretty sure I was telling the truth. "Me too. I feel the same." Kayla fell silent again, but lowered her head to kiss me. It was a light, soft kiss. I looked into her eyes. She seemed lost in her thoughts. I pulled her gently back to me for a more lingering kiss. Not intense, but one that tried to pass along to her just how I felt about her. One of these times I was going to find the courage to tell her. Chapter 14: Hard to Get it Right When we went back to work on Monday, I returned to the retail company's distribution warehouse. Lee was working in the front office while I was in the warehouse, posing as an employee doing inventory. I had a clipboard, wore safety shoes, a safety vest, and a hard hat, as per the regulations. My role was to see if I could find anything out of the ordinary in my rounds through the big building. I had already noticed one employee who was watching me carefully, although he was trying not to let on that he was. He was a forklift driver and his job was to move product from the racks to the shipping dock. He was not responsible for moving stock from arriving containers to the racks. On more than one occasion, I noticed him moving product from one rack to another. When I checked later on, the product was no longer in the rack he had transported the stock to. It seemed odd that he would move it from one place to another before moving it out to the shipping dock. During lunch, I checked with Lee and mentioned the odd procedure. He said he'd check it out for me. I gave him the product and shipping numbers that I had noted on the scan code attached to the pallet. In the meantime, I sat with a number of other men in the lunchroom and carefully tried to draw them out about what they knew about the losses. None of them were willing to admit they knew who was responsible, but I got the impression they knew more than they were willing to tell. I went back to the warehouse after the lunch hour and resumed my random inventory checks. I had just finished one section and was moving across the main aisle to the next area when a forklift with a large pallet of boxes wheeled around the corner and ran down the aisle toward me. It was in between the yellow safety lines, so I paid it little attention. Quickly, however, out of the corner of my eye, I could see it move to my side, leaving me no room between the racks and the oncoming vehicle. I had no time to consider my alternatives, and my diving into a partially filled rack was pure reaction. I almost made it. I felt the forklift load hit me and that was the last thing I remembered. My first recollection was sound, noise really. Beeps and clatter and footsteps and voices, but none of it made any sense. My head felt like someone had been banging on it for hours. It hurt like hell. Then, as I started to take stock of the rest of my body, I realized my head wasn't the only thing that was hurting. My chest felt like a two hundred pound weight was sitting on it. My legs were numb, or so I thought. I couldn't feel my feet. What the hell had happened and where the hell was I? The memories came back gradually. The warehouse, the clipboard, the forklift. I had been hit by the forklift ... or at least by the load of boxes on the forklift. As my brain began to function, I guessed I was in a hospital. I couldn't move my arms or my legs, and there was something covering my eyes. I could open my eyes, but I couldn't see. It didn't matter anyway. It was painful just to move my eyeballs. I started to lose my grip once more and the noises stopped. I was having strange dreams. That beautiful blonde was back again. I was sure I knew her. I could almost hear her voice, but ... not quite. It took too much effort to fight the feeling, so I surrendered. I was at peace, I thought. If it weren't for the pain, it wouldn't be too bad. I came back into that nasty world once more, but this time, the pain wasn't as harsh and the noise wasn't as loud. I could smell something, though. Something familiar. I let myself concentrate on that smell. Nothing else seemed very important. I knew I'd figure it out sooner or later. I discovered that I could move one of my arms. That was good, wasn't it? I touched my face. I wanted to know if I still had one. Stupid! Of course I did. But there was something soft wrapped around my head, covering my eyes. I wanted to take it off. I could see light coming through the bandage, so I wasn't blind. I started to push the gauze up so that I could see when I felt a hand stop me. It was a soft hand. It had that scent I recognized. I tried to talk, but couldn't. Something was stopping me. Something in my mouth and throat. I heard a voice. "Colin? Can you hear me?" It was a soft voice. A woman's voice. I knew that voice. I knew that scent. I wanted to tell her that I heard her, but I couldn't talk. I tried to wave my hand, but she was holding it. I felt something press against my cheek. Something soft, and warm, and damp. It felt wonderful, but it didn't last very long. I was slipping away again. Back into that dream I had been having. That was okay. It wasn't a bad dream. I woke up again. Was it daytime? I could see light coming through the bandage. I knew I was in a hospital now. I could hear the pages and the soft voices and the beeps of the monitors. My thinking was clearer now. My pain was clearer too. My head didn't hurt as much, but my ribs and hip and thigh hurt like hell. Not screaming pain, but a dull, continuous, throbbing pain. I lay there, trying to assess my situation. In a hospital? Definitely. Concussion? Likely. Broken ribs? Likely. Fractured hip and maybe femur? Possibly. Tube in my throat? Definitely. Punctured lung? Possibly. If only half this was fact, I was one fucked up cowboy. Who was I? Colin Stewart. Where was I? Vancouver. Okay, relax. Most of your marbles are rolling in the right places. "Colin?" It was the lovely soft voice once again. Kayla! I tried to say her name, but it came out something like "Kaaaackkkk." I raised my hand so that at least she knew I could hear her. I felt her soft hand embrace mine and grip it lightly. The warmth of her touch flooded through me and I relaxed. I couldn't see her, but I could feel her and I could smell her. That was enough for now. I fell back asleep. I was awake and then asleep several times. I wasn't counting. Sometimes I knew Kayla was there, other times she wasn't. Somewhere along the way, they took the covering off my eyes and I could see. It was blurry, but I could see. I don't know when it happened, but they removed the tube from my throat. Thank God for that. My first reward was a glass of water. I had an almost unquenchable thirst, but it hurt to swallow for a while. Nurses and a doctor would stop in to see me now and then. I was staying awake much longer now. My thinking was clearer now. I knew what I was waiting for. I wanted Kayla. Someone could explain what happened to me at any time, but I wanted Kayla. She must have been at my side almost from the beginning. I wanted her to know how important she was to me. She came in that morning, dressed in a sweatshirt and jeans. She looked a bit drawn and I saw dark circles under her eyes. It didn't matter a bit to me. I was just happy to see her. "Hi," I croaked. I saw tears forming in her eyes as she leaned in and kissed me softly, but for a nice long time. "Hi. You're getting better. You look better. I was scared, Colin. I was worried I might lose you." I tried to lighten the mood. "Not me. Too miserable. Too stubborn. Did I do much damage to the forklift?" She couldn't resist. She laughed. "No ... I don't think so. Oh, Colin, I'm so glad you're going to be all right. The doctor told me you're out of danger. You'll just have to be patient while you mend." "Hah! That's not me. The 'patient patient?' Ask my mother," I said before remembering. "Well, if she was around, that is." "Well this time you've got a very understanding nurse. Firm, but fair." "Very fair. Lovely fair hair. Just seeing you will help me get better all by itself." She smiled, then bent and kissed me again. "I hope you'll still feel that way when you've recovered." I learned it was Friday and I'd been in the ICU ward since Monday afternoon. I had a concussion, cuts on my face and eyelids, four cracked ribs, one of which had poked into my lung, deep bruises on my hip and thigh, but luckily, no broken bones. I was going to be very sore for a while, but I would make a full recovery. They had wrapped the ribs and drained the partially collapsed lung. The bandage on my eyes was to allow the cuts from broken glass to heal on my eyelids. Luckily, there was no damage to my eyes. I must have had them closed when I crashed into a large mirror standing upright in the rack. I had assorted other bruises on my shoulders, arms and hands from becoming a human projectile. I had no recollection of any of this after seeing the oncoming forklift and its load heading inevitably toward me. Shit! I survive eight years in a maximum security prison without so much as a hangnail. I survive an all out attempt by a hit man. I survive being run down by a lunatic pickup truck driver, only to get taken out by a warehouse forklift driver. Go figure! They didn't let Kayla stay very long. She told me she'd be back that afternoon. She was on her way to work. I told her to be careful and watch out for runaway forklifts. She didn't think it was funny. They started feeding me that noon. A tuna salad sandwich, some kind of green, creamy soup, and milk. It was a feast as far as I was concerned. I was surprised I had an appetite. There was still pain, but as long as I didn't squirm or try to breathe deeply, I could remain reasonably comfortable. I was terrified of the idea of coughing or sneezing. I'd cracked a rib early on in my teens and I remembered the pain. Four broken ribs would, I assumed, be four times the pain. No thanks! I got a nice surprise that afternoon. Both Kayla and Harold came in. He looked relieved to see me conscious and fairly alert. I got another lovely kiss from Kayla and a careful handshake from Harold. I was anxious to know what had happened and he was obliging. "Got the CCTV discs almost the same day. It weren't no accident, mate. Bugger was gunnin' for you. He's been suspended, but Lee has uncovered what they were up to." "They?" "Yeah. The guy on the forklift was the union shop steward, and ironically, the head of the safety committee. We have him banged to rights. He deliberately moved well out of the yellow guides and toward you. It weren't no accident. Lee figured 'e's got partners and we reckon we've sussed it out. Looks like he's in league with the union business agent and a woman in the office. Faking shipping documents off the system so they don't get deducted from inventory. Then a truck shows up, and our clever little friend loads it up with what look like regular shipping orders. The truck leaves and so does the merchandise. Poof!" "Can we prove it?" "Bloody right. We're setting them up for the next shipment. The city police fraud blokes will be right with us. Should catch 'em red-handed." "Thank god this wasn't a wasted effort. In the meantime, my employment didn't last very long, did it?" "Not to worry, son. Just get better and we'll find you something a little less dangerous for your second job," he laughed. "Looks like you've got a very fine nurse to help you along." I looked over to Kayla and she was smiling, but I detected something else in her eyes. Worry? Fear? I couldn't be certain, but this wasn't the time to question her. "Have you been here all along," I asked her. She nodded, looking to be on the point of tears. I reached for her with my one good arm and she took it, gripping it lightly. I did my best to give her a confident smile. I knew we could find some time to ourselves and talk about what we wanted to say to each other. It was the first time I had seen any real emotion in Kayla and I was curious about what it meant. Perhaps I was hoping what it meant. Period of Adjustment Ch. 12-14 Harold and Kayla and I talked about inconsequential things before he decided to head back to the office, telling me once again to get well before I worried about getting back to work. I reminded him that I'd only had two weeks on the job, so he might want to reconsider my employment, but he was having none of it. He left with a smile on his face, largely because he could see I was going to get better. We had been friends for almost fifteen years, and he valued that friendship as much as I did. "You nearly frightened me to death," Kayla said as she pulled her chair closer to me. I looked at her and smiled. "Sorry, Babe. Looks like I'm an accident waiting to happen these days." "As long as you get better ... I'll be okay. I couldn't stand the thought that I might lose you." I looked at her carefully. It was a genuine sentiment. I squeezed her hand to tell her I understood. She leaned over me and kissed me once again. It was wonderful medicine, and I very quickly forgot about my aches and pains. She had the magic elixir for my recovery. I was going to be all right. I knew that now for sure. I was right, I was going to recover. It didn't happen overnight, of course. It took six long, painful weeks of healing and light physiotherapy. The cuts on my face healed and I looked pretty much as I did before the collision. The deep bruises on my hip and leg lasted longer than I expected, but most of the pain was gone. It would be there that my full physio would concentrate when I began. The ribs and lung took longer, but at least the pain was gradually receding, and I could stand and turn more easily without as much discomfort. It still hurt to cough or laugh, but I could feel the improvement each week. All the while, Kayla was at my side. She didn't talk much about it, but I felt she was trying to tell me something, but I didn't have the courage to ask her what it was. I was just happy that she was there. There had been no more talk about looking for one apartment, much less two. We were content where we were at the hotel for now. At least until I was declared fit for duty. That day was coming. It was the fourth week that Kayla initiated sex. She had me on my back, my only sleeping position until my ribs were completely healed. I saw the crafty smile on her face as she exited from the ensuite and walked toward the bed, completely naked. I didn't need to guess what she was up to, and I was all in favour of it. She didn't spend a great deal of time on oral sex. She had a specific mission and it didn't take long to get me ready to help her carry it out. She mounted me and guided me into her very ready body. She was being careful, but I could tell from the tension in her that she needed this very badly, perhaps even more than I did. I didn't expect either of us to last very long. We hadn't had sex for over a month after our reuniting the week before the accident. We had briefly tasted just how good we were together before it all came to a temporary halt. She had been missing our intimacy and, mixed with the fear of my injuries, had been asking the doctor about resuming our love-life without my knowing. When he had given her the "green light" with a few precautions, she didn't wait another hour. "Quit being so careful," I admonished her gently. "I'll let you know if you've gotten too frisky." She didn't answer me with anything other than her eyes, but that was enough. I could see the fire behind them and immediately she began to take charge. I had my hands on her breasts as they had been bouncing joyously with her renewed efforts. Her eyes were now hooded slits and I guessed she was off in another world. I was remarkably clear-headed, considering. Just the pleasure of watching her was my prize. The only sounds were from her labored breathing and the slap of her lovely bottom against my thighs. The little pain that remained there was forgotten in the pleasure she was giving and receiving. When she had exhausted her pent-up lust, she collapsed carefully beside me, her hand softly gripping my wilting member. He eyes were fully closed now and yet I was certain she was awake. "It's seemed like forever since I could have you inside me," she finally said, almost whispering. "I know. I've wanted you just as much, and it was killing me not to be able to make love to you." We were quiet for a while, just lying peacefully on the bed, until Kayla spoke. "Colin ... do we need to look for two places? I mean ... won't one be enough?" There it was. The question that I'd wanted to answer for weeks. I knew exactly what I wanted to tell her. I just had to suck it up and say the words. "Kayla ... I love you. I can't see myself with anyone other than you. I want you in my life ... permanently. I want to marry you. Will you?" It wasn't the most eloquent proposal, but I meant every word and I could only wait in apprehension for her answer. She propped herself up on her elbow and looked down at me with her secret smile. I thought I knew before she spoke what her answer would be. "Prove it!" That wasn't what I expected. I wasn't ready for that. "Prove what?" "Prove you love me and want to marry me," she said. She had clearly taken the initiative away and was enjoying her moment. "Uhhhmmm, well ... uhhhmmm ... how about tomorrow we go looking for a ring?" I stumbled. "That's a start." Oh shit. What am I forgetting? What else is she looking for? "Help me, Kayla." "Well, there's the church ... and invitations ... and the reception ... and picking the best man." I lay quietly for a few moments, absorbing just what Kayla was up to. She was in a light-hearted mood. Not what I expected for something as important as a marriage proposal. Didn't she take this seriously? I decided to go first. "I guess we should plan to meet your parents. I'm kind of old fashioned, believe it or not." She seemed genuinely surprised. "You! Old fashioned! I suppose you want my father's permission, do you?" "That's right. After all, I don't have anyone else left in my family. That makes your parents all the more important. I think it's only fair that I ask your dad for permission to marry his only daughter." "Just one thing, Colin. You and I are getting married whether he gives you his okay or not ... understood?" I laughed as gently as I could. "Yes, ma'am." She nodded, a funny wrinkled smile on her lips. "Okay then, the rest is just details." I reached for her and she came to me, wrapping her arm carefully around my shoulders. "You had a hard time getting it out, didn't you?" she said after a while. "Yeah. I knew what I wanted, but I wasn't sure about you. Then, after my stay in the hospital and the past month, I was certain. I tried to imagine what it would be like without you ... and I couldn't handle it. I couldn't bring myself to admit it could happen. That's why I didn't say anything about looking for another place to live." "All right then! Tomorrow we go look for a ring." "Yes, ma'am." Then, the next day we start seriously looking for our home." "Yes, ma'am." "Then, we go visit my parents." "Yes, ma'am." "Then, we get serious with the wedding plans." "Yes, ma'am." "Then, you scrounge around looking for Canucks' hockey tickets. "Yes, ma'am!" She gave me a stern look. "Are you making fun of me?" "No, ma'am. Just practicing for when we are married." "Smart ass." A light punch on the arm and a kiss sealed my fate. END * As always, my thanks to ErikThread and DaveT for their skillful editing and helpful suggestions. Any errors are mine alone.