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The Reluctant Warrior

By: MoogPlayer



Hi all! Well, my second book is out, sales are up, and it looks like it's going to be a great year for me. I wish the same for all of you.

MoogPlayer

P.S. This story is total fiction as are all of the characters and some of the places depicted so; to all of the wannbe critics, most of whom have never written a single word, keep in mind that ANYTHING can, and usually does happen in a fictional story.

~~~~~~

Hi, my name is Christopher Duquesne, Chris to my friends. And in case you're wondering how to pronounce my last name it's, "Doo-Cane," just like the hot blonde, Emily Proctor's character, on CSI: Miami. 

I have dark brown hair and eyes, stand six feet, four inches tall, and weigh a solid two hundred and forty-five pounds. I'm almost fifty years old now, but I was barely twenty when what I'm about to tell you took place.

~~~~~~

I wanted to work for a couple of years after high school in order to have some money to help me through my first couple of years of college. I didn't need the money for tuition, as my parents had offered to pay for it as long as I made good grades. I have an older sister, Sara, to whom they made the same offer, but she and my brother chose to marry right out of high school instead.

I scored extremely high on my SAT's so; I knew that I would be able to apply for an academic scholarship and not have to ask my family for anything, Still though, I wanted to have some money of my own saved and socked away when the time came that I did want to go college.

~~~~~~

I applied for an academic scholarship to three different schools, and all three of them made me three separate scholarship offers, but now I was faced with the decision of having to make a difficult choice. I sought my sister's council and she made it easy when she laughed and simply said, "Why don't you go and visit each campus? See what each college has to offer; Chris, and maybe that might help you make a better choice."

"Thanks, Sis," I smiled, "I really appreciate it."

"You're welcome, sweetie," she giggled, playfully smacking the back of my head.

~~~~~~

I wanted to study English to maybe one day become either a writer or a teacher. I was also a member of the drama department in high school, where I won a couple of Best Actor Awards in the All-State Competition my Junior and Senior years, so; for fun, I wanted to minor in the theater arts. And with that in mind, I took my sister's advice and made it a point to go and visit the three colleges I'd received letters from.

~~~~~~

I live in Texas; about sixty miles south of Houston, and the three colleges I'd heard from were the University of Houston, Southern Methodist University, and Rice University. These were all very good schools, but SMU was in Dallas and that was a little further away from home than I cared to be. So, with that in mind, I hoped in my car and headed to Houston.

~~~~~~

To make short of what would be a long story, I toured both campuses, the U of H, and Rice University, afterward deciding on the U of H, who accepted me with open arms and a full four-year ride.

~~~~~~

Chapter One

I started classes the following fall semester of that year, which was 1980. Having already turned twenty in April of that year, I was older than your average freshman, but I didn't care, I was looking forward to receiving a good education. One of the stipulations of my scholarship, which I had personally negotiated, and of course my age had a lot to do with it as well, was that I didn't have to live in the dorms on campus.

And because I'd received a four-year scholarship and they weren't going to have to pay for it, my parents agreed to lease me a three-bedroom house near campus for the four years that I would be attending college.

~~~~~~

My first class, which was held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning, was English 101 with Dr. Bethany Howell. She was a very nice lady, somewhere in her early to mid forties, and I liked her the first time I met her. I knew I would do well in her class because of the fact that I was an English Major.

~~~~~~

My father had been a U.S Navy SEAL during the conflict in Vietnam, and had taught me Karate, Japanese Ninjutsu; from the time I was seven until I was old enough to legally wear a black belt at sixteen. He also taught me that I was to use it for "defense only", and that if I did otherwise, I would receive an ass kicking from him of universal proportion. Dad is a really cool guy that I love with all my heart. Anyway, back to the story...

~~~~~~

As I was walking across campus to my next class, I heard a commotion coming from behind the nearest building. I was walking that way anyway so; as I came around the corner of the building, I saw three larger students, who I later learned were football players, that had some kid cornered and were terrorizing him.

There's nothing in this world that I hate worse than a bully, and that's exactly what these three assholes were, bullies...fucking jock assholes. They were slapping this poor kid on the head and kicking him in the butt, and laughing like idiots.

"HEY," I shouted, making the three of them turn toward me, "Why don't you leave him alone?"

"Who the fuck are you?" the biggest of the three laughed.

"Nobody in particular," I replied, "Just someone who wants to know why you three cowards are picking on someone smaller than you."

"If I were you, I'd keep walking, asshole," he sneered, "Or face the consequences."

"If you leave him alone, you won't be harmed," I calmly warned, "If not, you will be the one who suffers the consequences, I assure you"

He moved toward me but not before receiving a hard kick in the balls, which brought him to his knees, allowing me to give him a hard roundhouse kick to face, knocking him out cold.

The second largest of the three tried to rush me, but was stopped with a hard spinning back kick to the solar plexus, which put him on the ground gasping for air.

The third one stood stone still, making me look at him and ask, "Well, what about it?" Needless to say, he fled in terror leaving his friends on the ground, one out cold and the other still trying to regain his breath.

"Are you alright?" I asked the kid who was still standing there.

"Yeah," he smiled, "I'm okay."

"I think you'd better get out of here," I told him, "Before these two idiots get up."

"Thanks a lot," he smiled, as we walked away, "My name is Kevin Welch, what's yours?"

"My name is Chris," I replied, extending my hand, "Chris Duquesne."

"It sure is nice to meet you, Chris," Kevin grinned, as we shook hands, "Those assholes have been messing with me ever since I was a freshman."

"Why?" I asked.

"I don't know," he sullenly replied, "I've never done anything to any of those guys."

"Man," I said, "What a bunch of jerks."

~~~~~~

Granted, I may be over six feet tall, and although I might seem enormous in size, I'm not a fighter by any means. I believe in the old adage of "Live and let live", hence the reason I like to write as oppose to fight. I was taught that fighting was senseless and didn't really serve any purpose other than to defend one's self. I only had one more class that day, World History, and afterwards I went back to my house.

~~~~~~

I was sitting in the front room of my house watching the television that afternoon when I heard a knock on my front door. I was surprised to find Kevin Welch standing on my front porch smiling.

"Hey Chris," he grinned, "I hope you don't mind that I just showed up without an invitation."

"No, not at all," I smiled, opening the door, "Come on in."

~~~~~~

"I wanted to thank you for what you did for me today," he smiled, "So, that's why I'm here."

"How did you find me?" I laughed, "I know that I'm not listed in the yellow pages, at least not yet."

"My girlfriend works in the admissions office," he smirked, "She looked in your records and found your address."

"You already thanked me," I humbly replied, "There's no need to do it again. Besides I gave those assholes what they had coming to them."

"Maybe so," Kevin enthusiastically replied, "But that was one of the most amazing things I've ever seen. Where did you learn to fight like that?"

"My father was a Navy SEAL," I proudly replied, "He taught me."

"Cool," he grinned, "Come on, my friend, you and I are going out tonight."

"I can't go out tonight," I said, "I've got class bright and early tomorrow morning."

"So do I," he chuckled, "Come on, bro, we won't be out too late, I promise, please? It's the least I can do."

"Oh, alright," I grinned, "Give a minute to get cleaned up."

~~~~~~

We took my car to a place near campus called "Pepper's Bar & Grill", and as soon as we walked through the door, we were met by three of the prettiest girls I've ever seen.

One of them placed her arms around Kevin's neck, and kissing him, looked at me and asked, "Is this the guy you were talking about?"

"Ladies," Kevin proudly announced, "Allow me to introduce my friend, Mister Chris Duquesne."

"Hi, Chris, I'm Kayla Jackson" the girl said, "Thanks for helping Kevin today," and then she leaned over and kissed me on the cheek.

"You're welcome," I humbly replied, blushing profusely.

Kayla was a blonde haired, blue eyed beauty that stood roughly five feet, six, and couldn't have weighed any more the a hundred and fifteen pounds at the very most.

And extending her hand to Kevin, she smiled and said, Come on you guys, we've got a table in the back."

~~~~~~

Because the legal drinking age back then was eighteen, we sat around the table drinking pitchers of beer and ate barbequed brisket sandwiches. Kayla introduced me to her two friends, another blonde named Charlotte Brower, and a very beautiful brunette named Carly Banks.

I've never really had trouble talking to women, but for some reason my throat went dry when I met Carly. She looked like a very young version of Jacqueline Smith, from the original cast of "Charlie's Angels".

"Hi, Chris," she smiled, "It's very nice to meet you."

"Uh...Hi," I stuttered, "It's nice to meet you, too."

"So, what are you majoring in?" she smiled, "I'm a history major."

"English," I replied, "I'm an English major."

"That's surprising," she cutely giggled, "From your size I figured you were some kind of jock, or something."

"Not me," I laughed, "I don't want to become some broken down has been by the time I'm thirty."

"Good for you," she smiled, "Can I tell you something?"

"Sure," I smiled, "You can tell me anything you want."

"Okay then," she giggled, "You sure are a cutie," and of course my face turned beet red again, making her say, "Oh, look at him blush. Isn't that the cutest thing?"

"Come on, now," Kevin said, "Ya'll are embarrassing my friend."

"But he's so cute," they all giggled.

After all of the commotion had died down, Kayla looked at me and said, "So, tell us, Chris, where did you learn to fight like Kevin says you do."

"His father was a Navy SEAL," Kevin excitedly smiled, "And he taught him."

"I'm not a fighter at all," I humbly replied, "Actually, I hate violence of any kind."

"Then why did you take Karate?" Carly asked, "Isn't that a violent sport?"

"No, not at all," I replied, now having everyone at the table's attention, "It's an art form, actually. I use it to keep my mind and my body pure, which helps me concentrate better on my studies and in class."

"Could you teach us?" they asked.

"Oh, no," I chuckled, "I'm not a teacher...really I'm not."

"That's too bad," Kevin knowingly smiled, "Because in the short time I've known you, I think you'd be great at it."

~~~~~~

The next morning I woke up around five o'clock, and after I was awake and alert, I decided to take an early morning jog. I ran around the block I lived on four times, which did a good job of not only keeping my heart rate up, but allowing me to break a sweat in order to get rid of the beer I'd drank the night before. And when I was done, I took a shower, got dressed, and then headed to the cafeteria for breakfast. After all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

~~~~~~

I had just sat down to eat, when lo and behold, Carly came walking up to my table, looking breathlessly stunning I might add, with a tray of food and sweetly said, "Good morning, handsome. Do you mind if I sit down with you?"

"No, not at all" I grinned, standing and pulling out a chair for her, "Please, have a seat."

"Thank you," she brightly smiled, as she took a seat.

As I sat back down and began to eat, Carly looked at me smiling, making me ask, "What is it?"

"I was wondering," she giggled, "Most guys I know sleep until right before they have to be in class."

"I don't think I understand," I quizzically replied, "What do you mean."

"What're you doing up so early?" she politely asked.

"Oh that," I grinned, "I like to get up and run in the early hours of the morning when it's quiet outside. It's really peaceful, you should try it."

"So, did you transfer here from another school?" she asked, "I don't recall seeing you my freshman year."

"That's probably because I'm a freshman," I smiled.

"A freshman," she replied, "How old are you, Chris, if you don't mind my asking, that is."

"Not at all," I chuckled, "I'm twenty, but I worked for a couple of years after high school, because I wanted to make enough money so that I wouldn't be broke when I got here."

"That sounds like a pretty smart thing to do," she grinned, "And I can really understand about the being broke part, too, that's why I'm here on an academic scholarship."

"That means that you're very smart," I smiled, making her blush, "Now who's blushing?"

"Oh, hush," she giggled, "Silly boy."

~~~~~~

My first class that morning was Psychology 101 with Dr. Richard Barnes. He was a very nice guy that knew how to make his students do their very best. I not only enjoyed listening to him speak, but I also admired him for the way he interacted with his students. He had a way of being able to persuade us to use our minds to seek the truth. And in the time I spent in college, he was one of my favorite teachers.

~~~~~~

I got out of class early that morning and didn't have anything to do until one o'clock that afternoon so; I decided to go back home and study for a pop quiz that I was going to have the following morning in my English class.

I also thought about being away from my family for the first time. It wasn't that I was homesick. On the contrary, I was enjoying my first step toward making my own way, and it was a really exciting time for me that first year.

~~~~~~

I received a very pleasant surprise that afternoon in my drama class when I saw not only Carly, but Kevin and Kayla in the theater as well.

"Hey, man," Kevin excitedly smiled, when he saw me, "What're you doing here?"

"I'm here for class," I replied grinning, "Theater is my minor."

"Oh, man, this is great," Kevin chuckled, "That means we'll all have a class together every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday afternoons."

"Very cool, " I grinned.

Our teacher's name was Dr. Margaret Hatcher, and she was a really cool lady whom I grew to love and respect a lot because of all she taught me.

The moment she walked into the theater she smiled and said, "Good morning ladies and gentlemen. This year we're going to do something no college has ever done before. We're going to do a stage adaptation of the film "Spartacus" that was performed on Broadway three years ago."

Then she crossed her arms, and with a smile, began, "I understand that we have a two time All-State Best Actor Award recipient among us. Mister Christopher Duquesne, would you stand up, please?"

I suddenly felt like someone stabbed me in the ass, and I wanted to find a hole to crawl into, but I stood up anyway.

"My, but aren't you a big one," she smiled, the females in the class giggling and whispering among themselves, "Welcome to our class, Christopher."

"Thank you, Doctor Hatcher," I humbly replied, "But I go by Chris."

"Okay, Chris," she smiled, "Are you going to audition for the upcoming performance I just spoke of?"

"Uh...I don't know, ma'am," I uncomfortably said, "I haven't really thought about it."

"I certainly hope you do," she smiled, "I think you would make a nice addition to our troupe."

"Thank you," I replied, taking my seat, "I'll give it some serious thought."

~~~~~~

"Goodness me," Carly smiled, after class that afternoon, "A Two time All-State Best Actor Award winner, aren't you just full of surprises, Chris."

"Uh yeah," I said, trying to shake it off, "That was a long time ago though."

"Yeah, right," she giggled, "I've got an idea, would you like to come to my apartment for dinner tonight?"

"I don't know," I teased, "Can you cook?"

"Oh, shut up," she playfully giggled, handing me a piece of paper, "Here, this is my address. Be there at six o'clock, and don't be late."

"Do I need to bring anything?" I asked.

"Oh, my," she giggled, "Boy, I can sure tell that your momma raised you right."

"What do you mean?" 

"Oh, nothing, really," she smiled, placing her palm against my cheek, "It's just that, since the moment I met you, you've always been a very nice guy, and I guess that I'm just not used to someone like you."

"Thank you," I smiled, "That's a very nice thing to say to someone."

"You're welcome," she softly replied, staring into my eyes, "But it's not hard to tell the truth."

~~~~~~

Chapter Two

I didn't want to come to Carly's house empty handed that night so, I stopped and got a single red rose wrapped in baby's breath, and tied with a red ribbon...which Carly...Oopps, I'm getting ahead of myself.

~~~~~~

"Hi," I smiled, when she opened her door. Then I handed her the rose and said, "I brought you this."

Taking the rose from my hand, Carly pulled me inside, closing the door behind us and said, "Thank you, Chris, that's was sweet. Come on in and sit down, dinner's almost ready."

As I sat down on her couch and looked around her apartment, I could definitely tell that a woman lived there, admiring the simple touches that only a woman has. And the longer I sat there, the more comfortable I felt, kind of like a nice hug you've never had before.

"How did you get into acting?" Carly asked me from the kitchen.

As opposed to yelling across her apartment, I walked into the kitchen where Carly was cooking and said; "I got into it my sophomore year in high school, and it kinda took off from there."

"Then why are you majoring in English?" she smiled, "I would think you would want to major in Theater instead."

"I have no aspirations of being an actor," I chuckled, "I'd like to be a writer, or maybe even a teacher."

"That's why you're such a sweetie then," she giggled, "Have I told you that I really like nice guys?"

"No," I smiled, "But that's a good thing."

" I'm glad you think so," she softly replied, looking dreamily into my eyes, "Because I think you're a nice guy."

Just then I felt something rise up within me that I'd never experienced before, and as I went to speak, I felt my throat going dry, but I managed to hold onto my senses and said, "And I think you're the most beautiful girl I've ever seen."

She slowly moved toward me and placed her arms around my neck, and as soft as the flapping of a butterfly's wings, she gently placed her soft lips against mine and gave me the sweetest kiss I'd ever received. It was just a small peck really, but the tenderness with which it was delivered left an impact on me that I'd never forget. Then she turned back to the stove and giggled, "That should hold you until after we're finished eating.

~~~~~~

She made meat loaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, and a hand tossed salad, all of which tasted great, making me realizing how much I'd missed a good home cooked meal. And when we were done, I helped Carly clean off the table and do the dishes much to her objections, which, in the end she actually appreciated.


The Reluctant Warrior



~~~~~~

"Tell me about yourself, Chris," Carly sweetly smiled as we sat together on her couch, "I want to know everything there is to know about you."

I told her everything that there was to tell about me, and then in turn; she told me everything I wanted to know about her. I found out that we were within months of being the same age, her being a couple of months older though.

I also found out that I couldn't keep my eyes off of her either. God, was she built great. However, her best feature is her eyes, as I found myself getting lost in them several times as we talked that night. She was beautiful, thrilling, and exhilarating all in one. And when the time came for me to leave arrived, we stood together just inside of the front door.

"Will we see each other tomorrow?" she hopefully asked.

"Are you kidding?" I smiled, "I sure hope so."

"Good," she purred, then lightly kissed me again, "I'll see you tomorrow then. Good night, handsome."

"Bye, Carly," I softly replied.

~~~~~~

I drove home that night with a smile on my face and the hopes of something new in my heart. I really liked Carly and I couldn't wait until I got to see her again. I still remember how that felt, too, as it remains when you love someone that deeply...but I'm getting ahead of myself...again.

~~~~~~

When I got to class the next morning I was met by the head coach of the football team, Coach Tom Meyers, angrily demanding that he and I talk immediately.

"I'm sorry," I replied, "But I've got class in a couple of minutes."

"I don't give a shit," he spat, "You drummed two of my players and now you're going to pay for it."

"I'm not paying for anything," I loudly replied, "Did those idiots tell you that they were ganging up on some poor kid behind a building here on campus?"

"That doesn't matter," he said, grabbing me by the arm," You're coming with me."

"Take your fucking hands off of me," I loudly said, wrenching my arm free of his grasp, "I'm not going anywhere with you."

"What's going on out here?" Dr. Howell loudly interrupted.

"He assaulted two of my players," Coach Meyers spat, "I'm going to file charges on him."

"NO, he didn't," Kevin said, suddenly appearing beside me, "He was defending me from three jerks who were giving me grief and trying to chase me away from my girlfriend. Besides, they started it, and I'll testify to that in court."

"I guess that settles it, Coach Meyers, "Dr. Howell, pointedly said, "Unless Mister Duquesne, or Mister Welch want to file assault charges against your players, and they will stick, I assure you, my husband works for the District Attorney's office."

"This isn't over," Coach Meyers grumbled, as he walked away.

"I suggest that you leave these young men alone, Coach," Dr. Howell viciously replied, "Remember what I said about my husband?"

Meyers said nothing but turned and walked away, grumbling something inaudible but stupid, I was certain of that.

"Thanks, Kevin," I grinned, "I really appreciate it, man."

"Don't worry about it," he teased, "I was just saving your ass for saving mine so; we're even now."

"Whatever," I began to laugh.

"Uh, Mister Duquesne," Dr. Howell smiled, "I believe it's time for class."

"Okay," I grinned, "Thank you, too, Doctor Howell."

"You're welcome, you bad boy," she giggled, closing the classroom door behind us as we walked in.

~~~~~~

I walked to my next class past the building where the fracas with Kevin and those three assholes had occurred, and thought to myself how perhaps maybe I might've gone a little overboard on them, but like I said before, I absolutely hate bullies so, I quickly found justification for my actions.

~~~~~~

After my last class that morning, Carly met me at my house for lunch, which she brought. It might've been leftovers from last night, but it was just as good then, if not better than the night before.

"I'm taking you out for dinner tonight," I smiled, as we ate lunch, "It's the least I can do."

"Oh my goodness, Chris," she giggled, "Are you asking me out on a date."

"Yes," I replied, after a moment's thought, "I believe I am."

"I would love to go out with you," she happily grinned, reaching across the table, taking my hand, "Thank you."

"Anytime, beautiful..."

~~~~~~

There was a restaurant a good ways from campus that my father used to take Mom and my sister and I to, one that I still go to, called, Guiseppie's Italian Restaurant. I knew how good the food was there and I decided that that was where I was going to take Carly on our first date.

I wore some dress pants and boots with a nice shirt. My long dark brown shoulder length hair was down and out of the ponytail I usually kept it in. And when Carly met me at the door, I thought I was going to faint right then and there.

Her long shiny dark hair flowed gently down her shoulders, contrasting the white silk blouse she wore, and a tight mid thigh length shirt. Her eyes were dancing like candles in the wind when she looked at me and softly purred, "Hi, handsome, are we ready?"

"As ready as we'll ever be," I smiled, taking her hand, "Come M'Lady, your chariot awaits you."

"You're so silly," she giggled, briefly kissing my lips as I helped her into my car, "But that's one of the things I love about you."

~~~~~~

"Wow," Carly commented, after her first bite, "This is so good, Chris, how did you find out about this place?"

"Dad used to take Mom and my sister and I here when we were little," I smiled, "I've been coming here ever since."

"Thank you for sharing this with me, sweetie," she smiled, "I really like being with you, Chris."

"I really like being with you, too," I replied, reaching across the table and taking her hand, "I need to tell you something though."

"What is it?" she sweetly asked, "You can tell me anything ya know."

"I've never been with a girl before," I blurted out, "I mean, I've never had a girl like you that liked me before."

"Aw, don't you worry about that one bit," she tenderly replied, "I'll tell you a secret, too, I've never had a boyfriend as gorgeous as you either so; why don't we learn together, okay?"

"Boyfriend?" I excitedly asked, "Does that mean that you want to be my girlfriend?"

"I knew you were smart," she giggled, "Yes, silly, I want to be your girlfriend so that I can have you all to myself."

"I've never had a girlfriend before," I quietly replied, "Not really, I mean, I went out with a few girls in high school, but that was it."

"I only dated one guy in high school," she told me, "And he turned out to be a real horse's ass so; after that I quit dating until I met you."

"My God, you're beautiful," I said, "You could have any guy you want."

"Maybe I don't want just any guy," she replied, "Maybe I just want you."

"And that's okay, too," I grinned, "At least I think it is."

"Good," she softly replied, "Because your opinion is the only one that matters from now on, baby."

~~~~~~

"Would you like to go somewhere else?" I asked Carly, on the drive back looking at my watch to discover that it was still fairly early.

"No," she purred into my ear, as we drove, "I want to go back to your house so I can make out with my new boyfriend for a little while."

"Okay," I smiled, chills racing down my spine, "My house it is then."

~~~~~~

We sat on the couch that came with the house and talked for a few moments until Carly, who was practically sitting in my lap by this time, finally said, "Enough talk, baby, kiss me."

I didn't really have that much experience when it came to kissing girls, but Carly made up for it. She wrapped her arms around my neck. Then very gently her lips touched mine, exploring at first before she opened her mouth and slid her tongue into mine. As our tongues began their sensual dance, my body began to react to Carly pressing hers against me. And before long, we were laying on our sides, face-to-face, mouth-to-mouth, our tongues interlocked and oblivious to anything but one another.

She began to press and grind her body against me, corporeal moans emanating from somewhere deep within her, making me hold her more tightly against me. I could feel her shiver as I kissed her neck, and I heard her whimpering as my lips grazed the underside of her throat.

"We need to stop for a little while," she smiled, panting as she gently pulled back and gazed into my eyes.

"God," I breathed, "You are so beautiful...so beautiful."

"So are you, Chris," she smiled, gently grazing my cheek with the back of her soft hand, "I think you're the most handsome man that I've ever seen, and I could fall in love with you very easily."

"I could, too," I told her, "But...just don't hurt me...okay?"

Aw, Chris, baby," she softly replied, "I promise to always be good to you."

"I'm going to hold you to that," I smiled, sitting up and pulling her with me, "And even though I don't want you to go, I think it's time to get you home."

"Yeah," she almost sadly smiled, "You're probably right."

~~~~~~

I'm going to audition for the play," Carly told me on the way home, "I wish you'd think about Doctor Hatcher's invitation...it would be so much fun."

"We'll see," I smiled, already knowing that I was going to grant her wish.

~~~~~~

After my Psychology class that morning, Carly and I met for lunch at "Pepper's", and as we ate, I had a knowing smirk on my face, making her ask, "What?"

"Well, I did some thinking last night after I took you home," I replied smiling, "And I think you're right about auditioning for the play so; I'm gonna do it."

"Oh my God," she squealed hugging me, "We're going to have so much fun together."

"Whoa," I laughed, "We haven't even auditioned yet."

"I don't care," she smiled, "I've still got you."

"Yes you do," I replied, kissing her lips, "And you'll always have me."

~~~~~~

That afternoon Doctor Hatcher entered the theater and said, "Alright ladies and gentlemen, this afternoon we will hold final auditions for the upcoming performance, are there anymore people who would like to audition?"

"I'm pleased that you changed your mind, Mister Duquesne," she smiled, as I stood up.

~~~~~~

Dr. Hatcher handed me the script, giving me a few moment to peruse the lines I would be speaking, and I'll be damned if she didn't want me to audition for the lead role, Spartacus himself.

As I read through the lines during the audition, I saw Dr. Hatcher sitting there with a content little smile on her face, which grew wider with every line I spoke. Carly, Kayla and Kevin all wore the same looks on their faces as well, and I can't remember feeling more nervous than I did that day, but I refused to let it show.

~~~~~~

When I was finished with the audition Dr. Hatcher stood up and began to loudly applause, the whole class following suit. "Well, Mister Duquesne," Dr. Hatcher pleasantly smiled, once the applause had died down, "I think we've found our Spartacus."

"Thanks Doc," I smiled, "I'll do my best."

All of a sudden, I heard a loud "HELL YEAH" emanating from the back of the theater where Kevin, Kayla and my beautiful Carly were sitting, making me just shake my head and chuckle.

She handed me a copy of the script and a rehearsal schedule, and with a bright smile on her face Dr, Hatcher said, "Congratulations, and welcome to our troupe."

"Thank you very much," I proudly smiled.

"You're going to enjoy this," she smirked, "Your girlfriend will be playing the female lead role of Varinia."

I looked up to see Carly wearing a knowing smile while blowing me a kiss and giggling.

"Rehearsals start tonight at seven o'clock, Chris," Dr. Hatcher grinned, "I'm looking forward to working with you."

"We're going to have a lot of fun," I replied smiling.

~~~~~~

"You tricked me," I playfully scolded Carly after class, "Didn't you?"

"Well, maybe just a little bit," she teased, "But it turned out okay, didn't it?"

"You knew she was going to cast me," I said, "Didn't you?"

"I hate to tell you this, baby," she giggled, "But you did that one all by yourself, handsome."

"I can already tell that we're going to have a lot of fun together," I smiled. "A whole lot of fun."

~~~~~~

And so it began, we started rehearsals, and for the next four weeks; we worked long and hard hours after class. However, not even once did my grade point average drop, nor did I cut any classes. Carly and I made time for one another whether we were studying together, or running lines for the play. Everything was going as planned until it came time to practice the fight sequences.

~~~~~~

A senior named David Gavin, who was pissed off at me for "stealing his role", as he called it, and had also been cast as a co-star as opposed to the lead, was going to be the fight sequence coach.

As he began to show us how to use the swords, I noticed that his movements seemed forced and unstable. The way he was using his weapon looked like a couple of kids playing Cowboys and Indians. And after he was finished showing us what was expected, I simply shook my head.

"What's the matter, freshman?" he spat, "Can't you pull off a simple fight sequence?"

"Is that what you call it?" I asked

"Yeah," he venomously replied, "Why...do you have a problem with it?"

As a matter of fact I do," I boldly replied, "It looks fake."

"It's called stage fighting," he sneered, "But then you're big and dumb aren't you? You probably never had a real fight in your life."

As Kevin was also part of the cast, I heard him begin to laugh and say, "You're about to get your ass whipped Dave, old boy. If I were you, I shut up and back down."

"Bullshit," he spat, and then made a parry toward me with his wooden sword, trying to thrust it into my gut to knock the wind out of me. I simply side stepped him, disarmed him, and then held his sword to his throat while restraining him with an arm lock behind his back.

"Would you care to try that again, old boy?" I cockily smiled, pushing him away from me, "I'll be than happy to oblige you, Davey."

He turned around with a smile on his face and excitedly said, "Show me how you did that."

I began to explain the proper use of the sword in a combat scene, using the knowledge I had learned from my father, as he also taught me the proper use of the Ninja weapons, including the Tanto Sword. 

And when I was done, Dr. Hatcher looked at me and said, "You've been trained in the martial arts, haven't you Mister Duquesne?"

"Yes, ma'am," I proudly replied, "My father trained me."

"If you don't mind my asking," she said, "What belt level did you reach?"

"Does it really matter? " I asked, "I mean..."

"Relax, Chris," she gently smiled, "You're among friends...please, tell us."

"I'm a second degree black belt," I said, "I've been studying Togakure Ninjutsu since I was little."

"Ah, Togakure, the spirit of the shadow warrior," Dr. Hatcher, excitedly said, "Did you know that there are only a small handful of Togakure Ninjas left in the world."

"Yes ma'am," I quietly replied, "That's why I've only ever used it for defense."

"I can vouch for that," Kevin chuckled, "I saw him kick the shit out of two football players...big ones, too."

"Come on, man," I replied, "That's different, they were about to rough you up."

"But they didn't," Kevin said, now standing on the stage with his hand on my shoulder, "Because you wouldn't let them. If that's not defending someone, then I don't know what is."

~~~~~~

It was Friday night that night and there were no classes until Monday. And as Carly and I rode back to my house, she looked at me and said, "There's something I need to tell you when we get back to your house."

"My house," I replied, "I thought you wanted me to take you home."

"Not tonight," she purred, "But I'll wait until we get to your house, baby."

"I guess I'll have to wait then," I teased, "But I guess you're worth it."

"You guess," she giggled, "You're a being a brat tonight, silly boy."

"Maybe so," I smiled, as I gently placed my hand on her leg, "But there's something I've been wanting to tell you for a while now."

Oh yeah?" she grinned, "And just what would that be?"

"I love you, Carly, " I told her, "I've loved you for a while now."

"Oh, Chris," she began to cry, "I fell in love with you the moment I met you, baby."

I guess that settles it then," I happily replied, "I'm yours until I die, or until you find somebody better."

"Oh, baby," she sniffled, clinging tightly to my arm, as I drove, "I'll never leave you...not ever."

~~~~~~

Chapter Three

When we got back to my house Carly led me straight back to my bedroom, turned on my bedside lamp and said, "I'm not exactly a virgin, Chris, but I don't know what to do."

"I've got a secret for you," I smiled, tenderly pulling her to me, "I am so; why don't we learn together."

"I love you," she softly replied, tenderly kissing my lips, "I love you with all my heart."

She began to take off her clothes, one piece at a time, and when she was totally naked, I thought my heart would stop. She looked like a brunette version of the medieval Lady Godiva.

Her body was trim with just the right amount of feminine curves to make me harder than I can ever remember being. Her 34B breasts were delightfully round with the most beautifully full nipples that I've ever seen. Her legs, while not long, were perfect for her hot little body, with an inverted triangle of black hair at the juncture covering her pussy.

I let her take my clothes off of me, kissing each spot of bare skin as it was revealed, and when my pants finally came off, I never wear underwear, and my hard eight inch cock obscenely stuck straight up, Carly grabbed the shaft with her soft hand. 

Leading me into the bedroom, she leaned down and licked off the precum that was dripping from the head of my cock. 

"Mmm," she purred, "We're going to have a lot of fun tonight baby."

She lay back on my bed spreading her legs, and then gazed into my eyes and tenderly said, "Come, make love to me, Chris."

I lay down on the bed gently resting my groin against hers, between her beautiful legs. And as we began to kiss, my beautiful Carly wasted no time, reaching down between us and placed the head of my cock against her soaking wet vaginal lips.

Looking up into my eyes with an impish grin, she giggled and said, "I know your big cock is gonna hurt at first so; push it in, baby," and then she thrust her hips up at me, slowly taking the entire length of me inside of her.

"Oh, my God," she groaned, "I feel so full."

"Do you want me to take it out," I asked, "I don't want to hurt you."

"Oh no," she sensually purred, "Don't you dare take that beautiful cock out of me. Just give me a minute to get used to it, baby."

"I love you," I said, as I began to slowly move in and out of her. I pulled out agonizingly slow, wanting to feel the inside of her velvet walls, and then I'd push back in, making sure that my pubic bone ground against where I knew her clit was.

Ungh, ungh," she began to groan, "Ungh, yes, baby oh yes...Faster, harder, Chris, fuck me harder, baby...ungh, ungh...oh, oh, oh, OHHHH, YESSSSS, YES, NOW, BABY...NOW...I'M CUUUUMMMMIIINNNGGGGG, OH GOD, FUCK ME, CHRIS, I LOVE YOU SO MUCH."

I wasn't far behind her, and moments before I was about to cum, I asked, "Where do you want it, baby?"

"Inside me, baby," she urgently replied, "It's okay, I'm on the pill so; let all go, ungh," she moaned, as I began to unload what seemed like gallons of hot scalding sperm, deep inside of her.

"Oh, God, I love you, Carly," I groaned, feeling better than anything I'd ever experienced in my life.

~~~~~~

"Oh, my beautiful Chris," Carly began to cry, "I love you so much, baby."

"I love you, too," I happily smiled, "And I always will."

We slept the whole night long, waking up to make love and then falling back to sleep, embraced in the love we now shared together, but also in the security of knowing that we'd formed a very special bond, one that would never be broken.




The Reluctant Warrior



~~~~~~

I opened my eyes the next morning to find the most beautiful creature alive lying fast asleep in my arms. She looked so pretty that I was almost afraid to touch her lest I break the perfection therein. I reached over and gently kissed her ruby lips, making her eyes begin to flutter open.

"Mmm," she stretched, throwing her arms back around me, "Good morning, baby," she sleepily smiled, "How do you feel this morning?"

"Madly in love with you," I replied, burying my face into the crook of her neck, rubbing my hand down her back and onto her perfectly succulent ass, giving it a gentle squeeze.

"Good answer, my love," she sighed, "And I love you, too."

~~~~~~

Taking a shower with Carly was an experience I'll long remember until the day I die. It was even more fun when she backed up to me and grabbed the towel rack to let me do her doggie style. I once thought her eyes were her best feature until I saw her naked ass for the first time in broad daylight, oh, my God, what a vision.

After our shower we cooked and ate breakfast in the nude, and then climbed back in the bed again to simply fuck the day away, stopping only when Carly complained that she was beginning to get a little sore.

"Do you feel like going out tonight?" I asked, around four that afternoon.

"Oh, Hell Yes," she delightfully giggled, "I want to show off my new boyfriend to all of my friends that I haven't seen since we started rehearsals a month ago."

~~~~~~

I'd been out shopping for clothes for school last summer, and on a whim, I decided to buy a pair of black leather pants, which fit me like a glove I might add, and tonight was the night that I was going to wear them. Carly had mentioned that she wanted to go out dancing that night so; I thought that these pants would fit the occasion perfectly. Besides, it was nineteen eighty and the times were changing.

I had a pair of nice black roper boots that were polished to a very high gloss and a white long sleeved silk shirt that had been custom made for me when Dad was in Japan. With the combination of the white shirt, the black leather pants, and my black boots, I looked quite debonair, if I say so myself.

"Holy shit, you look hot, baby," Carly squealed, as I stepped out the bedroom to surprise her, "I'm going to have to watch you closely tonight to keep all the girls away from you, because you belong to me."

That's right," I grinned, "And you belong to me, you sexy thing."

~~~~~~

When I took Carly to her apartment to get ready, I only had to wait for about thirty minutes until she stepped out of her bedroom. It was then that I realized that I had been blessed with the most beautiful creature that God had ever put a breath in. 

She was wearing a black miniskirt, two-inch heels, and a loose white silk shirt, opened in the front to reveal her luscious breasts encased in a black tube top beneath it.

"Now who looks hot?" I widely grinned, "Mmm, damn girl."

"I take it you like the way I look" she replied, her make-up having been flawlessly applied.

"I don't just like it," I replied, "I love it, Carly."

"Good," she proudly smiled, "I always want my man to think I look good."

"Then you'll never have that problem with me..."

~~~~~~

We went to a club that is now no longer there, a place off of Buffalo Speedway called "The Second Office Club". They had a live band that played there every Friday and Saturday night, and the bartenders were all well known for pouring rich drinks.

I knew from the moment we walked in, Carly was easily the most beautiful woman in the whole place. Don't get me wrong, there were plenty of really hot girls there, but there wasn't a single one of them that even came close to my girl. I liked the way that sounded...my girl, damn, was I lucky, or what?"

~~~~~~

We couldn't have been there for more than ten minutes and were sitting at the bar waiting for the band to get started when Kayla appeared in front of us.

"Hey, girl," Carly squealed, "I figured you might be here."

"Wow," Kayla grinned, "Don't the two of you look good."

"Thank you," Carly proudly smiled, "Doesn't my boyfriend look hot?"

"Uh oh," Kayla knowingly teased, "You got you some last night, didn't you? Don't try to lie; I can tell by the smile on your face, girl."

"Yes, I did," Carly grinned, "Last night, and this morning, and then earlier this afternoon, too."

"Uh huh," Kayla giggled, "And judging by the size of that wad beneath your man's hot ass leather pants, I can see why you're smiling like you are."

"Oh, my God," Carly loudly giggled, "Girl, you need to quit."

"Is Kevin here, too?" I asked, desperately trying to change the subject. 

"Come on, cutie," Kayla giggled, taking both mine and Carly's hands, "He's sitting at our table with the rest of the gang."

"The gang," I said, "What's she talking about?"

"You're gonna love it," Carly giggled, as we followed Kayla through the club.

~~~~~~

When we arrived at their table I was pleasantly surprised to find Kevin sitting there with Charlotte Brower and Dave Gavin, as well as two other girls, very pretty and both blondes, which I'd never met.

"These two," Carly smiled, pointing to the two girls I didn't know, "Are Kerry Marx and Twila Hanson, and they're going to be custom fitting your costumes for the play."

"Oh, my God," Kerry seductively smiled, "I can't wait to take his measurements."

"Ooo, girl," Twila giggled, "You said a mouthful there."

"I don't think so," Carly protectively replied, "He belongs to me, and I plan on being there when you do so; keep your hands...and your dirty little thoughts to yourselves, bitches."

"Would you listen to that," Kerry teased, "I've never seen her this worked up over a guy before so; she must be in love."

"Yeah, we are," I plainly replied, as I wrapped my arms around Carly from behind, "Does anyone have a problem with that?"

"Relax, Chris," Kayla smiled, "They're just messing with Carly. Hell, we've all known each other since freshman year."

"Oh, I didn't know," I apologetically replied, "Sorry you guys."

"You're forgiven as long as you sit down here between me and Carly," Twila smiled.

"Oh, I don't think so, Missy" Carly giggled, "I've heard that you've got wandering hands."

"God, what a stingy bitch," Twila playfully complained, "And stop calling me Missy."

~~~~~~

We all had a great time that night, dancing and partying together, and yes, I was asked by every female member of our group to dance several different times. And Carly, because these girls were her friends, would playfully shove me toward the dance floor each time one of the girls in what was our gang would ask me to dance, wearing a wide grin on her beautiful face the whole time. Of course all of the slow songs were strictly reserved for Carly, and Carly alone. After all, she was my girlfriend and it was only right. That was also the night that I formed a bond of friendship with a wonderful group of people, which still lasts to this day. 

~~~~~~

For the rest of the weekend Carly and I simply enjoyed the newfound love that we shared, and it was also then that I realized that Carly was "The One" and that I would never be able to live without her ever again. Granted, I was only twenty at the time, but I knew exactly what I wanted out of life, and that Carly was going to be a part of it, regardless.

~~~~~~

The following Monday night at rehearsal had to be the most embarrassing night of my life. It was because our costume department had been working practically non-stop and now the time had come to see how well they fit. I had already given Dr. Hatcher the sizes of my pants; shirt, and shoes and Kerry had been teasing me about measuring me. Still though, I never realized that I would have to try on the costumes to make sure they fit, and to make matters worse, I would have to stand in front of the whole cast in costume.

Needless to say, there really wasn't much to any of my costumes, save for the weapons and the gear worn by the ancient Gladiators. The rest of the time I was bare-chested in a half tunic and roman sandals.

I'll never forget the first time I walked onto the stage wearing my opening costume, a small, which seemed tiny to me; half tunic and sandals. The moment I appeared on stage, every single female there began making catcalls eliciting a crimson blush that spread across my body in a matter of a few seconds.

However, nobody was whistling any louder than my beautiful Carly, and I saw a look of pride on her face that made me realize just how much she truly loved me. But then again, I also saw a slight twinkle of lust in her eyes as she gazed at me in costume. Still though, I was glad that she had those feeling for me, because God knows I had the same feelings for her.

~~~~~~

Over the period of time that we got to know one another, Carly would leave clothes at my house to wear on the mornings after the nights spent with me. And it was that night after rehearsal I made a decision which I've never once regretted since. I asked her to move in with me, and to say that she was delighted would've been the understatement of the century.

"I want you to meet my family," I smiled, "If that's okay, I mean."

"Of course it's alright with me, baby," she gently replied, "I love you, and I want to know where you came from, and see where you grew up."

"Good," I happily grinned, hugging her, "We'll go next weekend if you want."

"That sounds great," she giggled, "I can't wait to meet them."

~~~~~~

The following week was spent going to class, rehearsals, and getting Carly moved in with me. And what made it all worthwhile was, with the exception of going to our different classes, that we spent nearly every waking moment together and every night asleep in one another's arms.

~~~~~~

Bright and early the following Saturday morning found us heading down to my hometown, which was only about an hour's drive away. I hadn't called Mom and Dad because I wanted to surprise them.

"I'm so nervous," Carly said, as we drove.

"Don't be," I smiled, "It's just my family"

"I know," she replied, "But it's just that I don't want them to think badly of me because we're living together."

"Are you kidding me?" I chuckled, "My parents will be excited, especially my Mom, that I've got such a pretty girlfriend."

"Thanks, Chris," she smiled, "You always seem to know just what to say to make me feel better."

"I also know just what to do to make you feel better, too," I chuckled, reaching over and lightly tweaking her nipple."

"That's because you're pervert," she giggled, "Dirty boy."

~~~~~~

"Damn, boy," Dad smiled, as Carly and I were getting out my car, "Don't you know how to pick up a phone and call us. Damn, it's good to see you."

"You, too, Dad," I replied, hugging him, "I'd like to introduce you to my girlfriend, Miss Carly Banks."

"Holy Cow," Dad gasped, "She's beautiful."

"Thanks," I grinned, "I think so, too."

"It's nice to meet you, Mister Duquesne," Carly politely said, hugging Dad's neck.

"And it's very nice to meet you, pretty girl," Dad grinned, winking at me, "Come on, darlin, let me introduce you to Chris' Mom. She's gonna be excited to meet you. Get the bags, Chris," as he and Carly walked to the house.

"Hmph," I grumbled, "Some shit never changes, does it?"

~~~~~~

"Oh, my goodness," Mom smiled, when she met Carly, "You sure are a pretty thing."

"Thank you, Missus Duquesne," Carly smiled, "But so are you."

"Oh, honey, please," Mom giggled, "My name is Brenda and my husband's name is Jake. Call us by our names, please. Besides; you're an adult now and us girls have to stick together."

"I have some news for you," I said, as I walked into the house, "Well, I have two pieces of news for you."

"Let me guess," Dad knowingly smiled, "You've landed the lead role in the upcoming play, Spartacus; and you two are living together?"

"How could you possibly know that?" I asked, amazed.

"You may not know this, Chris," Mom smiled, hugging me, "But I used to baby-sit your English professor, Doctor Bethany Howell, when she was little, and we've been good friends ever since."

"That's not nice," I laughed, "You guys have been keeping tabs on me, haven't you?" 

"Not really," Mom giggled, "We didn't have to ask, because Beth has already told us everything."

"That's right," Dad said, his tone of voice making me uncomfortable, "And what's this I hear about you kicking two football player's asses?"

"It wasn't his fault," Carly spoke up in my defense, "They were trying to gang up on one of our friends."

"I know," Dad proudly smiled, patting me on the shoulder, "I just like watching Chris squirm."

"Now I see where Chris gets it from," Carly teased.

"Gets what from?" Dad asked, "What're you talking about, pretty girl."

"I see where he gets his brattiness from," Carly playfully giggled, "He gets it from his father."

"That's right," Dad teased, "So you'd better be on your toes while you're here, girlie," making Carly giggle as only she can.

"So, you two don't have a problem with Carly and I living together?" I asked my parents.

"Good Lord, no," Mom smiled, "I think couples should live together before they make any permanent decisions concerning their relationship."

"Thanks, Mom," I smiled, hugging her, "You're the best, and I love you very much."

"I know you do, baby, and I love you, too," Mom smiled, returning my hug and kissing me on the cheek, "And your father and I are so very proud of you, both of you."

"That's right," Dad smiled.

~~~~~~

Because it was only about nine o'clock when we arrived that morning, Mom insisted that we go out for an early "brunch" as she called it, around ten-thirty. There was a brand new Denny's Restaurant™ in my hometown, and that was where we decided to go, which was just fine with Carly and me.

~~~~~~

"Tell us, Carly," Mom smiled, as Dad drove us, "How did you two meet?"

"The guy that those football players were picking on is a friend of mine, his name is Kevin Welch, well his girlfriend is one of my best friends," Carly explained, "Well, after Chris kicked those jock's butts for trying to gang up on Kevin, he took Chris out that night to a place we all go to eat called, Pepper's Bar and Grill. And after I met Chris that first time, oh my God, it was all over with after that." 

When I saw Dad snickering at me through his rearview mirror, I tried to covertly flip him the bird for laughing at me. However, Mom busted me on the spot, just like she's always been able to do, and with Carly giggling beside me, Mom looked at me and teased, "Jacob Christopher Duquesne Junior, did I just see you flipping you father the finger, young man?"

"Yep," I grinned, "He was being an asshole."

"Well, I guess I can understand that then," Mom giggled, "Sometimes your father pisses me off that bad, too."

Her comment was perfectly timed, and in a matter of seconds Carly and I were laughing like a couple of children. "Don't laugh at her," Dad playfully grumbled, "It only makes that mean old heifer act that much worse."

I knew that Dad had said the one thing that had always made the women in my family go off on him; he'd called Mom a mean old heifer.

"Uh oh," I quietly whispered to Carly, "Watch this, it's going to be funny as hell."

The look in Mom's eyes told me exactly what was about to happen when she glared at Dad and said, "Kiss my ass, you...you old fucking dried up Frog. Just who in the hell are you calling a mean old heifer, son of a bitch?"

"Easy, honey" Dad began to laugh, "I was only teasing you in front of the kids, I'm sorry, baby."

Of course by this time I was in near tears from laughing so hard, and poor Carly was having one hell of a time trying to contain her own laughter at this point so; as opposed to getting angry; Mom, like she's always done, found the humor in the situation and began to giggle herself.

"If the two men in this family weren't so damn good looking," Mom giggled to Carly, "I'd throw both of those bastards to the sharks."

All Carly could do was laugh, and I was delighted to see this side of her. I even got to hear her snort for the first time, which only made me love her that much more. And I knew that my parents cared for her, too, especially from the adoring looks that Mom gave Carly and I as she watched us together.

"Are you alright, Mom?" I asked.

"Yeah, I'm okay," she sighed smiling, a lone tear slowly making its way down her cheek, "I just can't believe that you're all grown up now."

"Aw, Mom, don't be sad," I softly replied, taking her hand, "You're always going to be my Mom, and nothing will ever change that. And I will always love you, and nothing will ever change that either."

~~~~~~

Once we were seated, Dad took off to the restroom as the three of us awaited him at the table.

"I only have one question for you, Miss Carly," Mom sternly glared, and then melted into a smile, "Does my son make a handsome Spartacus?"

"Oh, my God, you should see him," Carly playfully swooned, "He's smoking hot, Mom...smoking hot!"

I don't know why, but all of a sudden I began to blush, especially when Mom softly grabbed my cheek, and as if she were talking to a baby, purred, "He's always been such a pretty little boy, yes he has."

"Come on, Mom," I whined, "Not in front of Carly," which of course made my father and Carly almost tumble off the table from laughing so hard.

"Don't laugh at him," I told Carly, "He's bad enough as it is."

"Aw, it's okay, honey?" she smiled, kissing me in front of my parents and embarrassing me further, "We just love you, that's all."

"That's right," Dad teased.

"Nobody asked you," I chuckled to Dad, "Did they, Pops?"

"Pops?" Dad smiled, "I'll give you some Pops, you little whelp."

"Now, now Jake, honey," Mom sarcastically teased, "You need to think about what you just said to our son."

"What?" Dad innocently asked, "What did I say?" 

Mom looked at us and winked, and then she calmly turned to Dad and said, "If my son is a whelp, then that makes me a bitch...and I know you don't wanna go down that road with me again, now, do you?"

"Hell yeah," I cheered, "Get him, Mom," as my mother triumphantly grinned."

"Ha, ha, asshole," Dad playfully told me, "Shut up and eat your breakfast."

~~~~~~

Chapter Four

After we got back home that morning, I was showing Carly around my family's property when she looked at me smiling and told me, "I absolutely love your Mom and Dad."

"Yeah," I smiled, at the thought of them, "They're pretty cool parents and I feel very blessed to have them, but you haven't met my sister yet so; be prepared. She's the one member of my family that likes to bust my balls the hardest, especially now that you're here."

"Uh oh," she giggled, "I have a feeling that this is going to be hilarious."

"Yeah, yeah," I groaned, "Just promise me that you won't make her worse by laughing at her."

"Oh, no," she teased, "I'm not making any promises about that."

"Oh, yeah," I laughed, goosing her in the butt, making her squeal, "Who's being a brat now?"

~~~~~~

We hadn't been back at the house for more than ten minutes or so, when I heard my sister's voice at the front door asking, "Where's my Christopher Robin?" (Her pet name for me since we were both little)

"We're in here, Sara," I smiled, winking at Carly.

A moment later, Sara appeared in Mom and Dad's den with a smile on her face and her arms open wide.

"Hi, baby brother," she smiled, as I stood to hug her, "Gosh, look at you. You must've grown an inch or two since the last time I saw you, "and then noticing Carly, who'd been sitting next me, Sara looked at me and grinned, "And who is this pretty girl that you've brought with you?"

"Sara," I proudly announced, as I made the introductions, "This is my girlfriend, Miss Carly Banks."




The Reluctant Warrior



"Oh, my God," Sara sweetly smiled, as Carly stood, "You're beautiful."

"Thank you, Sara," Carly smiled, "So are you."

"Yeah," Sara teased, "Where do you think Chris got it from?"

"Gimme a break," I chuckled.

"Hell no," Sara laughed, "I ain't giving you shit, Christopher Robin."

"Sara," Mom scolded, "Watch your language, please."

"Why, Mom?" Sara giggled, "I've heard you talk a hell of a lot worse than that," Dad began chuckling in the background.

"Hush that laughing, Jake," Mom said to Dad, "You're the reason that these kids talk the way they do to begin with."

"Don't pick on Dad," Sara giggled, "He's just a man and you know how they are, huh, Mom?"

"Hush, girl," Mom giggled, "That's not nice."

"So, tell me, Carly," Sara teased, "Does my baby brother treat you right? If he doesn't, call me and I'll come to Houston and kick his ass for you."

"He treats me wonderfully," Carly smiled, placing her hand on my leg, "And I love him very much."

"Aw, I'm so glad," Sara sweetly smiled, tears beginning to form in her eyes, "I worried about him so much when he was high school."

"Hey, hey, it's okay, Sis," I gently soothed smiling, "I was okay in high school."

Maybe so," she sadly smiled, "But I always wanted you to have somebody who cared for you besides us."

"That's very sweet of you, Sara, and I love you for it," I smiled, my arms around Carly, "But as you can see, good things come to those who wait."

"You've got that right, Chris, "Sara replied, smiling proudly at Carly, "She sure is a pretty thing."

"I think so, too," I chuckled, "I think I did rather well, even if I say so myself," as Carly brightly blushed.

"Yeah, right," Sara teased, ruffling the hair on top of my head, "I think you got lucky, Christopher Robin."

~~~~~~

I took Carly out that night to a place near the beach called, "Pat's Place" to hear some friends of mine that Sara had told me were playing out there. I used to go out there by myself before I started college. It was a great place and they always had really hot bands that played in there.

"Goodness gracious," Pat smiled, from behind the bar as she saw us walk in, "If it isn't Chris Duquesne, home from the big city."

"Hi, Pat," I smiled as we took a seat at the bar, "This is my girlfriend, Carly Banks."

"And such a pretty girl, too," Pat sweetly replied, as she reached across the bar to pat Carly's hand, "Welcome my place, Carly honey. What can I get you kids to drink?"

"I'll have the usual," I devilishly smiled, "And from what I was told, my girlfriend fell in love with rum-runners her freshman year in college."

"Oh, my God," Carly gasped, blushing profusely, "Kayla told you that, didn't she?"

"I promised that I'd never tell," I laughed.

"You don't have to," Carly giggled, "That bitch is the only one who knows about the rum-runners incident, wait till I see her."

~~~~~~

When the band took the stage, I smiled at seeing the band "Tigerclaw", which consisted of the Hayes triplets, Rick, Randy, and Roland, on bass, drums and rhythm guitar; then there was Michael Gibson on keyboards, and Chuck Peterson on lead guitar and vocals.

These guys had been playing music together since were all very young; and to hear them that night made me proud to have had them as friends growing up. Of course three years later, they got a deal with Capitol Records, but that's another story. 

~~~~~~

"Wow," Carly smiled, as she listened to my friends playing, "These guys are good."

"Yes, they are," I knowingly grinned, "They're gonna do great things one day, I just know it."

"I agree," Carly replied, "These guys sound like someone you would want to hear on the radio."

~~~~~~

When we got home that night there was a note from my mother on the kitchen table that read:

  Hey Babies,

 I've all of things into your sister's old room, Chris. Besides she has the queen

 sized bed and you two will sleep more comfortably. I'll see you in the morning,



                   Sweet Dreams,

                        Mom

"Holy shit," I gasped, "I can't believe that my parents are giving us permission to sleep together in their house."

"I don't see anything wrong with that," Carly said, "Besides, it's not like they don't already know that we live together."

"Yeah, I guess so," I smiled, kissing her lips, "Come on, baby, let's got to bed."

~~~~~~

I woke the next morning to an empty bed, and could immediately hear the sound of female laughter emanating down the hall from the kitchen, followed by an aroma I knew all too well, Mom' pancakes. 

Needless to say, I was out of bed, threw on a pair of shorts, and a short pause in the bathroom, I headed down the hall to the kitchen.

~~~~~~

I came into the kitchen to find Mom and Carly having coffee and talking. The moment I appeared in the doorway, Mom looked smiling and said, "Well good morning, sleepyhead."

"Good morning, Mom," I sleepily replied, leaning down and wrapping my arms around Carly, kissing her neck, "Good morning, sweetie."

"Hi, baby," she giggled, as I nuzzled her neck, "Sit down here and I'll get you a cup of coffee."

"Okay," I grinned, "That sounds like a good deal to me."

"Your father wants to see you in barn once you're awake, sweetheart," Mom told me.

"Let me guess," I grinned, "Dad probably said, and I quote "Send Chris out to the barn after he gets his lazy little ass out of bed", didn't he, Mom?"

"That was pretty close, Chris," Mom giggled, "Damn close."

~~~~~~

During my junior year in high school Dad had found an old beat up Nineteen Sixty-Seven Ford Mustang with a convertible top, which he wanted to restore back to its original condition. However, when I left to go to college I remember that there was still plenty left to do before the restoration on the car was complete.

~~~~~~

When I walked into the mechanical bay we'd built within the barn when we first brought the car into it, imagine my surprise when I found that Dad had finished what he and I had begun a couple of years before.

The once dull and primer gray colored body of the Mustang now sported a sparkling bright candy apple red finish. Beautiful chrome bumpers accented the smaller chrome side pipes that were mounted on each side of the car. But the icing on the cake was the brand new custom-fitted black leather interior, with red piping along the seams of the two front bucket seats and along the outside of the back seat And as a sign of the time back then, the leaf-springs in the back had been adjusted so the rear end rose slightly higher than the front enhancing the chrome duel exhaust pipes and brand new custom tires with classic slot mag wheels.

"Holy cow, Dad," I said, upon seeing the car, "When did you do this?"

"I started right after you left for college and didn't stop until I was finished," he proudly replied, "She sure is a beauty, huh?"

"Are you kidding me?" I grinned, "This is incredible. Man, you and Mom are gonna have a blast cruising in this thing with the top down."

"That's the thing," Dad cryptically replied, with a knowing smile, "Your Mom and I have been talking; and we're both very proud of you, Chris."

"Thanks, Dad," I humbly replied, "I want you and Mom to be proud of me."

"We are," he said, placing his hand on my shoulder, "That's why I've decided to give this car to you to drive back to school."

"Holy shit," I gasped, while Dad laughed like a schoolboy at the expression on my face, "You're kidding me, right?"

"Nope," Dad happily grinned, raising the hood to expose a brand new factory built Two Eight-Nine A engine, with chrome valve covers and steel mesh reinforced hoses, "She's all yours, kiddo. The keys are in the ignition, start her up."

In less than a nanosecond I was sitting behind the wheel and turning the key, the engine starting up immediately. It purred like a kitten as it began to idle, and as I pushed the gas pedal slightly; I could feel the raw horsepower quietly rumbling at my feet, just waiting for the chance to be set loose.

Dad must've been reading my mind just then because he looked me in the eyes and told me, "You be careful in this thing, Chris...and you know exactly what I'm talking about, too."

"Yes, sir," I replied, remembering a friend that I went to high school with, who'd been killed in an accident while street racing.

"Good," he lightheartedly replied, "Now let's back this thing outta here so you can take that pretty girlfriend of yours for a ride."

"You got it, Dad," I smiled, lowering the hood while Dad opened the barn doors.

~~~~~~

"Oh, how beautiful," Carly gasped, when she saw the Mustang sitting in the driveway of Mom and Dad's house, "And you and your father built this?"

"At first," I replied, and then I explained to her what Dad had told me, "So, you wanna go for a ride beautiful?"

~~~~~~

"This is so beautiful," Carly smiled, as we were riding down the road in the Mustang with the top down, "I can't believe your Dad gave you this car."

"I know," I proudly smiled, "Dad's a great guy."

"Mmm," Carly swooned, leaning over and kissing me on the cheek, "Like father, like son."

"You're silly," I grinned.

"Maybe a little bit," she sweetly giggled, "But I love you with all my heart."

~~~~~~

"So," Dad smiled, gazing at the car as we pulled back into the driveway, "How did she do?"

Not bothering to turn the car off, I looked at Dad, and motioning my head, grinned and said, "Why don't you hop behind the wheel and find out for yourself?"

"I'd love to," he grinned, as I moved out his way.

Dad got into the Mustang looking like a little boy on Christmas. Then after a quick wink at me, he put it into gear, pulled around and out of the driveway...and then took off down the road like a shot out of a cannon, smoking the tires in his wake.

"Damn him," Mom suddenly laughed from behind us, "He's always been a crazy son-of-a-bitch...Mmm."

"Yeah," Carly giggled, "Like father, like son."

"Hey, wait a minute," I protested, while Mom and Carly giggled like schoolgirls, "I'm not wild like Dad."

"Maybe not in public," Carly smiled, lightly smacking me on the butt, "But behind closed doors? Mmm!"

By this time Mom and Carly were howling with laughter at my obvious embarrassment, until, after regaining her composure, Mom put her arm around my neck and said, "Don't be embarrassed, baby. Being half assed wild sometimes is a good thing."

"Yeah," I replied, my face still red while Mom and Carly were still laughing, "Whatever you say, Mom." 

"Aw, poor baby," Carly teased, "Don't be embarrassed, sweetie, we're just teasing you."

I simply laughed and shook my head, realizing that Mom was showing me, in her own sweet and precious way, that she truly cared about not only Carly, but my choice in the girl I'd brought home to meet her and Dad.

~~~~~~

"Man, what a ride," Dad panted, looking wild eyed as he got out of the Mustang once he'd pulled back into the driveway, "Holy shit, this thing hauls ass." Then he handed the keys back to me and added, "Remember what I told you, Chris."

"Yes, sir," I smiled, "I'll be very careful, I promise."

~~~~~~

That night, as Carly and I lay down to go to sleep, she snuggled against me and sweetly but sleepily said, "I really love your family, Chris."

"I'm glad," I grinned, "Because I can sure tell that they love you."

"I know," she cooed, "But not nearly as much as I love you."

"I love you, too."

~~~~~~

After transferring all of the things from my old car into the Mustang, I put Carly's bags and mine in last. I'd not told my father about the incident involving Kevin and those assholes that were trying to rough him up, nor did I intend to do so. What I did do, though, was make sure that all of my hand weapons were packed to take back to Houston with me. And as Carly and I were preparing to leave, Mom placed her arms around Carly's neck, gently hugging her and said, "You make sure that Chris brings you back here, pretty girl, and often, too." 

"I will, Brenda," Carly sweetly cooed, hugging Mom in return, "And thank you for everything."

"You're welcome, honey," Mom smiled, "You two be careful going back now."

"Relax, Mom," I chuckled, "I'm driving the whole way back."

"That's why she said to be careful," Dad suddenly said from behind me, teasing me by poking me in the ribs, "Don't be such a hard head."

"Whatever," I teased, winking at Dad as Carly and I got into the Mustang.

~~~~~~

Carly and I fucked in the shower that next morning after our run, and although I've already said this once, she has the tightest, hottest, most beautiful ass I've ever seen on a woman, bar none. Even now when we fuck it's still the...damn, I'm getting ahead of myself...again! Sorry about that.

~~~~~~

We received several looks as we drove the Mustang onto the campus that morning, all from people admiring the classic beauty I drove, as well as the classic beauty who sat by my side. I can't remember feeling more proud of anything in my life as I did that day, and it was all because my father had given me the car, and God had given me Carly.

~~~~~~

"Holy shit," Kevin smiled, upon seeing the Mustang at play practice that afternoon, "Where did you get that car, man?"

"My Dad and I have been working on this thing for a couple of years now," I proudly replied, "He went ahead and finished it while I've been here."

"It sure is a beauty," he teased, "Man, think of all the pussy you can get with that thing."

"He'd better not," Carly poisonously told him, "I'll cut his dick off and feed it to the ducks."

"Jeez," Kevin laughed, "Relax, Carly. You know was only kidding."

"What's wrong, baby," I chuckled, "You're not jealous of this car, are you?"

I began to laugh and suddenly Carly glared at me, and with tears beginning to form in her eyes, she cried, "Laugh it up, shit like that happens more often than you think, you asshole," and then she turned and ran into the theater, her hand over her face to hide her tears.

"Shit," I cursed, "I think I just fucked up."

"She'll be alright, Chris," Kevin replied, "But you need to go see about her just the same."

~~~~~~

I walked into the theatre and was met at the door by a slightly perturbed Kayla, who said, "What did you do to Carly to upset her, Chris? She's my best friend and I want to know what's going on, right now, dammit."

"Look, Kayla," I said, "I don't have time for this right now. Where is she?"

"Wait a minute," she tersely replied, "You haven't answered my question."

"NO, you wait a minute," I angrily replied, "I love Carly with all my heart and soul; and it's up to me to make things right between us. Furthermore, I will not stand here and be cross-examined by you. Now either tell me where she is, or get the hell out of my way so I can go find her myself."

Suddenly I heard the familiar sound of female laughter emanating from some where within the darkened theater and I knew that I'd been had.

"You were right, girl," Kayla giggled to someone unseen, "He is even more handsome when he gets pissed off."

"Aw, Man," I laughed, "Alright, Carly, where the hell are you?"

"I'm right here, my lover," she breathed into my ear, pressing her body against my back, "And I love you with all my heart and soul, too, baby."

~~~~~~

Chapter Five

Rehearsals went great that afternoon and Dr. Hatcher couldn't have been more pleased. We'd all been working very hard trying to get everything perfect. Carly and I performed our love scenes perfectly, and why not, we truly were in love and it showed in our performances.

"Oh, my goodness," Dr. Hatcher praised, "You two couldn't be more perfect if you tried."

"Thanks, Doc," I grinned, placing my arm around my beautiful Carly, "But we're not trying, we live together and already love each other."

"I know, Chris," Dr. Hatcher smiled, "And it shows, too...good work, you two."

~~~~~~

"Doctor Hatcher thinks that you're the most gifted actor she ever saw, Chris," Kevin and Kayla excitedly told me after play practice that night, "She said that you're going to really turn some heads this coming Friday when we open."

"I don't know about all that," I humbly smiled, "I just enjoy doing this stuff, that's all."

"Well, you do it very well, baby," Carly purred, as she stood proudly beside me, "Besides, it's not every day that a girl has her boyfriend playing her leading man."

"You're silly," I chuckled, gently kissing her lips.

"Yeah, but you love it," she giggled, Kayla giggling right behind her.

"Hey, you guys," Kayla suddenly exclaimed, "Let's go to Pepper's and have dinner."

"I've got a better idea," I smiled, "Why don't you and Kevin come with Carly and I to our place for dinner. I'll even cook."

"I don't know," Kayla knowingly giggled to Carly, "Can he cook, sis?"

"Aw, he's not too bad," Carly teased, "Or should I say that I haven't caught food poisoning...yet." 

"Oh, really?" I replied smiling, lightly smacking Carly on her beautiful ass, "Just for that you get to do the dishes, Miss Smart Ass; and I'm making Mexican food tonight, too."

"Oh, Chris," she sweetly smiled, "Really?"

"Yes," I grinned, "Why don't you and Kayla go to the house while me and Kevin go to the grocery store to get the stuff I'm gonna need, okay?"

"Okay, baby," she grinned, "I'll see you at the house," and after quickly kissing my lips, she looked at Kayla and said, "Come on, girl, we'll take your car," and with that they were gone, leaving Kevin and I just standing there.

"Come on, Kevin," I laughed, "We've got to go to the store, man."

"Lead the way, bro," he chuckled.

~~~~~~

"Man," Kevin grinned, as we rode to the local grocery store in the Mustang with the top down, "This car is so fine."

"Thanks," I simply smiled, "I appreciate it."

"Can you really cook," Kevin laughed, "Or are you gonna make the girls do it?"

"I'm offended sir," I regally announced, teasing him, "I'll have you know that I was taught by one of the finest Mexican cooks this side of the Rio Grande as well as this side of the Pecos."

"Okay, John Wayne," Kevin grinned, "I still won't believe it until I see it."

"Then hang on, my friend," I chuckled, "Cause you're about to take the culinary ride of your life."

"Yeah, yeah," he laughed, "Whatever."

~~~~~~

I went all out and made Chicken and Beef Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Refried Beans, and I even made some Tostadas, two for each of us. It only took me about two and-a-half hours to make everything. I did enlisted the help of Carly and Kayla to help chop up the tomatoes, onions and peppers. Carly stopped by the store on the way home and picked up a case of Dos Equis to go with the food, God, what a woman. And once the table was set and all the food was ready to serve, we all sat down to eat.

"God," Kayla smiled, inhaling through her nose, "This all smells so good, Chris."

"Shit, woman, dig in," I teased, "The food's not gonna jump into your plate by itself."

"Smart ass," she giggled, helping herself, "This better be as good as it smells."

"I know it smells good going down," I impishly replied, "But I'm not real sure about when it comes out, though."

"Oh, Chris," Carly scolded, "That is so gross."

~~~~~~

We ate until we could hold no more, and as we sat back away from the table with full bellies, Kevin looked at me, and while patting his stomach, smiled and said, "I've got to hand it to you, Chris. This is the best Mexican food I've ever eaten."

"Good," I happily smiled, "I'm glad you liked it."

"Why didn't you ever tell me that you could cook like this, silly boy?" Carly teased, giggling; "Now I'm definitely going to have to keep you around."

"Is that a fact?" I chuckled, reaching over to squeeze her ass, "Cooking is not the only thing I do well you know."

"You are so bad," Carly giggled, her face turning a bright shade of pink, "You silly boy."




The Reluctant Warrior



As I rose from the table and was heading into the kitchen to begin cleaning it up, I was abruptly stopped by Carly and Kayla, both of whom informed me that I was to take a seat and that the cleaning of the kitchen was their responsibility.

"You did all the work, Chris," Kayla sweetly smiled, "It's only right that we do the dishes."

"That's right," Kevin readily agreed, "What can I do?"

"And have you make a bigger mess than we've already got?" Kayla playfully scolded, "You sit down here next to Chris where you'll stay out of trouble."

"Aw, man," I laughed, "That's too funny."

"Don't laugh at her, Chris," Kevin chuckled, shaking his head, "It only makes her that much worse."

"I hear ya," I chuckled, while covertly squeezing Carly's ass again, "Mine acts the same way sometimes, too."

"Dammit, Chris," Carly fussed, stepping away from me, "What is it with your hands and my ass?"

"Sorry, sweetie," I grinned, pulling her back to me with my arm around her waist, "It's just that you're so beautiful," I paused for effect, "And so is your ass."

"You're terrible," my beautiful Carly giggled, "And I love you, too, baby."

~~~~~~

That night after Kevin and Kayla left, Carly and I were lying together in bed, holding one another and talking.

"I'm really proud of you, Chris," Carly smiled, rubbing her hand across my chest, "I thought you should know that."

"I'm proud of you, too," I grinned, "And my family absolutely adores you."

"Speaking of family," she giggled, "That reminds me of something I wanted to ask you and almost forgot."

"What is it, baby," I replied, "You know you can ask me anything."

She had only spoken very briefly of her family up to this point in our relationship so; you can only imagine my surprise when she looked at me and asked, "Would it be alright if we had dinner with my Mom and my little sister the night before the play opens?"

"Sure," I smiled, "On one condition."

"Anything," Carly uncomfortably smiled, "What is it?"

"You've never spoken of your family," I began, "And on those few times it was very short. I want to know about them before I meet them, because I feel like you're either hiding something, or you're ashamed of something. Which is it, my love?"

Carly sat up and looked at me with tears beginning to pour down her cheeks. However, before I could comfort her, she pushed slightly away and began, "My father, or at least my real father, was killed in Vietnam when I was four years old, and my little sister, Kimmy, was still a baby. Mom remarried after I started school to a man named Charles Leboux. Charles's family was wealthy and they saw to it that both me and my sister attended only the finest girls school etc...."

"At first we all thought that Charles was a nice guy until I turned sixteen. I had just come home from cheerleading practice and was in my room changing clothes when, obviously drunk, Charles barged into my room, catching me while I was naked."

"Baby, you don't have to do this," I told her, her body trembling, "Please..."

"No," she abruptly replied, then gently took my hand and softly said, "I have to tell you this, Chris, because I love you, and I want you to know," and after an acknowledgement from me, continued, "Charles began to rant and rave, telling me that because of all that he'd done for my sister and me, it was time for some payback...and then he raped me."

"Oh, my God, Carly," I replied, pulling her into my arms, "You pressed charges against him, didn't you?"

"Yes, I was even taken to the hospital by the police to be examined by a doctor," she cried, "But because his family has money, the charges were dropped. Mom still divorced his fucking ass anyway though."

"I promise you that no one will ever hurt you again," I protectively replied, holding her tightly against me, "And I'll beat the shit out of the first asshole that tries."

"He's still around," she sniffled, "So, I'd be careful if I were you."

"Fuck him," I angrily spat, "He'll never touch you again...I swear by all that's holy."

"Still though," she tearfully replied, "You be careful."

"I will," I soothed, "I promise you I will."

However, what Carly didn't know at the time was that I stored that bit of information away in my mind, which of course I was going to use at a later date. And then after calming my beautiful Carly back down, I looked into her eyes, kissing her lips, and gently said, "I would love to meet your Mom and Kimmy. We'll even go to Guiseppie's to eat, my treat."

"Oh, no, Chris," Carly protested, "I can't let you do that."

"You know how much I love you, Carly, yes?"

"Yes," she grinned, "But that doesn't mean...."

"But, nothing," I tenderly interrupted her, "I love you, you love me, and that's all that matters, alright?" 

"Oh, God, Chris," she cried, hugging me tightly, "I'm so in love with you."

"And I'm in love with you, too," I smiled, gently holding her naked body against mine, "But you don't have to cry."

"Oh, yes I do," she sweetly smiled, "Yes I do..."

~~~~~~

The few days that followed were filled with a lot of hard work, as well as studying. One thing that Dr. Hatcher did not allow was for a student to let their grade average drop, especially if said student was one that was under her tutelage. But she was still a good person as well as a great teacher, and also someone whom I came to greatly respect in my time at college.

~~~~~~

After following her daughter's directions, Carly's mother and sister came pulling up in my driveway at six o'clock that evening in her Mom's car.

"MOM, KIMMY," Carly squealed, as she dashed out the side door to greet her family, "I've missed you guys so much."

~~~~~~

When Carly brought her Mom and little sister into the house, it was though I was looking at three sisters as opposed to a mother and her two daughters. Carly and Kimmy both looked exactly like their mother, who in no uncertain terms, immediately let me know that her name was Helena, and that was what she wanted me to call her.

"So, this is Chris," Helena said to Carly, "My, my, but he sure is a handsome thing, well done, baby girl."

"Thanks, Mom," Carly proudly replied, "All the girls here think he's gorgeous, too."

"I'll bet that you have to beat them away with a stick," Kimmy giggled, "Huh, Sis?"

"Not anymore," Carly lied, winking at me, "All it took was beating one girl's ass."

"You are such a liar," Kimmy giggled, looking me up and down, "But I would fight for him, too. Way to go, Sis."

By this time I was red-faced with embarrassment, and Helena, noticing it right away, smiled at me and said, "Come on, Chris. Let's go and eat so these two will stop embarrassing you, sweet boy."

"It would be an honor," I smiled, offering her my arm, "But if Kimmy is anything like her sister, they're not going to let up on me for a second."

"That's right, sweetie," Carly giggled, playfully smacking my butt, "He knows me too well, Mom."

"It looks that way, doesn't it?" Helena smiled, winking at me, "Thank the good Lord that you've finally met your match."

Of course I broke into laughter, making Carly smile and tell me, "Don't laugh at her, baby. It only makes her worse."

~~~~~~

When we arrived at the restaurant, Guiseppie himself was there to meet us at the door, wearing a hearty smile and a handshake for me.

"Senor' Chris, Senora Carly" he said, his Italian accent very present, "Itsa so good to see you both again, and yousa bringa some guest to eat, good, very good, right thisa way, please." 

~~~~~~

"What a nice man," Helena smiled, as we were seated, "And this is a very beautiful restaurant, too."

"Chris' parents have been bringing him here, since he was a little boy, Mom," Carly told her, "He brought me here for the first time a couple of months ago, and I love it so much that we come here all the time now."

"You know, I'm coming here next fall, Chris," Kimmy teased, "Maybe you can bring me here, too."

"I don't think so, little sister," Carly venomously replied, "Find your own boyfriend, and you two stop trying to embarrass me around mine, thank you."

"I knew that would get her," Kimmy laughed, "She's always been that way, Chris."

I chose not to speak just then and wisely so. I could tell, by the look on her face, that Carly was getting ready to say something nasty until Helena promptly said, "I think you two need to hush your mouths right now.

As opposed to saying anything else, Carly and Kimmy simply pouted for a few moments while I laughed like a fool, which elicited Carly's ire.

"I don't see anything funny in the least, Chris," Carly spat, making me laugh even harder, "Just remember, you have to sleep next to me tonight, asshole."

"Hey, now," Helena smiled, "Just because you're showing your ass right now doesn't mean you have to take it out on Chris."

"Yeah," I teased, "That's right," and suddenly Helena and I both began to laugh like little children.

It wasn't long before the frown on Carly's face melted into a smile; and gently placing her arm around my neck, she grinned, after which she kissed me then said, "I'm going to have to keep you away from my mother. I can see you're beginning to pick up a few bad habits of hers already."

"Nonsense, young lady," Helena smiled, "I'm simply showing him how to keep from letting you and your sister push him around."

"Whatever you say, Mom," Carly replied, winking at me.

~~~~~~

After we'd eaten and the bill had been brought to the table, I simply handed the server a fifty-dollar-bill, telling him to keep whatever change was left over; and fifty dollars more than covered the cost of the meal back then, I assure you.

"Hey wait," Helena protested, "I can't lat you do that, Chris."

"Don't worry about it," I smiled, "Besides, it's done."

"Well, at least let me cover the tip," she said, looking into her purse.

"That's taken care of, too," I gently replied, "Tonight is on me, because I wanted to welcome my beautiful girlfriend's family into our home."

"What a sweetie," Helena smiled, gently patting my hand, "He's the one, Carly honey, I can tell."

"I know," Carly quietly smiled, "I knew it the first time I ever met him."

Kimmy simply sat there smiling proudly and saying nothing.

~~~~~~

When we got back home that night, I looked at Helena and said, "You girls can have the bedrooms. I'm gonna sleep on the couch."

"Bullshit," Carly pointedly replied, "Mom and Kimmy will be just fine on the king sized bed in the guest room. You're sleeping with me, Jacob Christopher Duquesne Junior, and that's final."

"I guess I've received my instructions then," I sheepishly replied, much to the laughter of every female in the house.

~~~~~~

I had classes the next morning so; I left before everyone else was up. Of course I kissed Carly good-bye on the way out, letting her know that I wouldn't be back until right before noon.

"I know what your class schedule is," she sleepily smiled, "We live together...remember?"

"I love you," I smiled, "Silly girl."

"I love you, too," she grinned, quickly kissing me, "Now get to class, you bum."

~~~~~~

Because the play was opening that night, I was given the rest of the afternoon off by both of my instructors. Little did I realize what awaited me when I got home?

~~~~~~

"It's about time your slow ass got here," giggled my sister, Sara, the moment I entered the house. Mom and Helena were sitting together on the couch while Kimmy sat next to Carly, who was wearing the biggest smile of all.

"Hi, baby," Carly said, hopping up from the couch to throw her arms around my neck, "How was class?"

"Before you say anything, Chris, hear me out," Mom said, noticing the look of surprise on my face, "Your sister and I came into Houston because she had a doctor's appointment, which, from what the ultra-sound says, you're going to be an Uncle in about eight months." 

"Oh, my God," I grinned, hugging Sara and twirling her around in the air, "Congratulations, Sis. Now you'll have someone else to torment besides me."

"Horseshit," she giggled, kissing me on the cheek, "I'm gonna have a partner in crime to gang up on you with."

"That sounds about right," I laughed, looking around the room, "So, are you all going to stay for the play opening tonight?"

"Of course we are," Helena smiled, "Brenda and I have children starring in the lead roles."

"Oh, my," Mom knowingly smiled, "That means we need to go shopping. Come on, Helena; come on girls...except for you, Carly. Sorry sweetie but you have to be here for the play." And then one by one, they were gone.

~~~~~~

"Wow," I wearily smiled, "That wore me out just being here."

"I know," Carly smiled, snuggling into me, "Wanna take a nap for a little while?"

Knowing that was Carly's way of asking me if I wanted to make love, I simply smiled, and while gently squeezing her hot little ass, said, "Always, baby...always."

~~~~~~

After Carly and I had made love we lay together basking in the afterglow and talking, something we always did as well as always made time for.

"Are you nervous about tonight," I asked, "You shouldn't be, you can do this standing on your head."

"Maybe I'm a little nervous," she smiled, "But what about you, Mister Star, are you nervous?"

"Nah," I grinned, "Not really."

~~~~~~

"I'm glad you guys are already here," Dr. Hatcher smiled, when Carly and I showed up in the theater early that afternoon, "It's one less thing I have to worry about."

"Is there anything we can do to help, Doctor Hatcher?" Carly sweetly asked.

"No, sweetie, there isn't," Dr. Hatcher smiled, "But thank you for asking just the same."

"You're welcome," Carly replied, "We'll be back in the dressing rooms just in case you change your mind, okay?"

"Okay, Carly," Dr. Hatcher grinned, "I'll be sure to keep that in mind, but I'm fairly certain that we've got everything under control."

"We're here just in case," I grinned, "Okay, Doc?"

"Thanks, you two," she wearily smiled, "I really appreciate it."

~~~~~~

Chapter Six

OPENING NIGHT

The play began with Marcellus giving the speech to Spartacus and the other slaves who were sent to the Gladiator School, and from that moment on, we held the audience's attention until the last line was spoken at the end of the play.

We played to an audience that was packed to a standing-room-only capacity, as all of the major papers, magazines, and even the local television networks were all in attendance. And I saw the wisdom of Dr. Hatcher's request that we greet the press in costume almost immediately after the performance was over.

"Tell us, Chris," a reporter asked me, "How did you like performing in something bigger than a high school theater?"

"It was great," I chuckled, "And the girls are a lot nicer here," and of course Carly giggled, as she was standing right next me, which in turn made laugh, too.

"What about you, Carly," the same reporter asked her, "Did you find your first leading role to be more of a challenge than any or all of the roles you had last year?"

"Of course I did," Carly girlishly giggled, "There were a lot more lines and blocking, oh, and leave us not forget about the many different costume changes throughout the show; I think there were sixty-three in all."

A new publication in Houston, a feminist magazine called, "She" had been making headlines in the news as of late. And one of their correspondents, a mousy girl, skinny with stringy dark hair and black horn-rimmed glasses named Paige Easley, casually strode up to Carly and dryly said, "I think that this is nothing more than another Hollywood attempt at exploiting women on the big screen. What do you think, Ms. Banks?"

"First of all, it's Miss, and not Ms. And believe me when I tell you that you don't want to know what I think," Carly giggled, "Because if so, then your magazine will end up giving us a bad review. I don't think it's fair to judge a group of hard working young people just because the magazine's correspondent is biased to begin with. It makes for crappy reading, dear."

"And just why would you think I would give you a bad review?" Paige asked, "I'm not the person you think I am."

"I can find out what kind of person you are very quickly," Carly pointedly replied, "Chris, would you come with us for a moment, please?"

"Where are we going?" I unwittingly asked, as Carly led us, Paige and myself, off and away from everyone else. And after the introductions had been made, Carly smiled at Paige while rubbing her hand down my bare chest, and salaciously asked, "Tell me, Paige, from one woman to another, what do you think of Chris? Isn't he hot?"

"He's just a man, as far as I'm concerned," she snottily quipped, "I mean, if you like that sort of thing to begin with."

"So, you're a man hater, then," Carly impatiently asked, "It's okay if you are, but it doesn't give you the right to cast your opinionated conjecture upon us, nor does it give you the right to spout such trite bullshit either. Besides, we will refute anything you put in print, and then we will probably sue you."

"You can't do that," Paige angrily glared, "And the first amendment to the Constitution of the United States says that you can't so; fuck off. I'll write whatever I want."

"And if we were certain that you were going to print the truth," Carly said, "Then we wouldn't be having this conversation."

"So," Paige spat, crossing her arms, "What's your point?"

"There's printing the truth and making everyone happy," Carly politely warned her, "And then there's such a thing called slander. I would imagine that anyone who is trying to make a name for his or her column most certainly doesn't want to slander a major university. Think about the repercussions, maybe even some sexual misconduct charges against you might be in order, too. After all, didn't we see you in the news last week professing your undying admiration for the feminist movement?"

"That's downright prejudiced to hold someone's sexuality against them," Paige growled, "Just who the hell do you think you are?"

"You held Chris' sexuality against him only but a few moments ago," Carly pointedly told her, then threw her hands into the air, "Write what you want, Paige, I feel sorry for you, I really do..."and then she turned and walked away shaking her head.

"Can I say something Paige?" I asked, and when I got no response, I continued, "I'm really sorry that you got hurt, but not all of us guys are that way."

"What makes you think I got hurt?" she condescendingly asked, "And what on earth would make you think it was by a guy?"

"You do," I sadly replied, "You wear your heart on your sleeve like some kind of badge of honor or something," and then I gently took her hand and quietly told her, "I'll bet you that if you gave yourself another chance, you'd find the sweetheart that was once within you and is probably still there, just hiding, waiting for another chance to shine."

Up to this point in my life, I'd never seen anything so fragile as I did in what Paige did next, she leaned over so that no one would hear her, and with fear evident in her voice, she looked at me in an almost childlike frailty and sadly but quietly asked, "What makes you think I need a second chance...or even deserve one, for that matter?"

"We all deserve a second chance, Paige," I gently smiled, "All of us...even me."

"Not you, you're perfect," she suddenly blurted out, her face rapidly turning bright red with embarrassment.

I immediately knew that God was presenting me a golden opportunity that evening, but at the same time I also knew that I needed to get out of my costume. So, as politely as I knew how, I looked at Paige and asked, "Can you wait here? I've got to change out of this costume and back into my clothes. I swear, I'll be right back because I want to talk to you some more, okay?"