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Walking Wet Dream

By: hopelessdreamer



Staring at the photos on the side table Jessica saw a fairly recent one of a marine, a very hot marine. Her eyes widened even as her stomach dipped. Rolling her eyes at the response her body gave she turned yelling toward her friend who happened to be in the kitchen. "Hey Marty, whose the 'walking wet dream' in dress blues?"

Marty burst out laughing even as someone cleared their throat directly behind her, a very male someone. "Most people just call me Gage."

Every ounce of color fled her face as she turned to see the mirror image of the guy in the photo. Followed quickly by a sudden rush of color as he reached out to shake her hand. 

"Um I, I am foot in mouth, but most people call me Jesse."

His smile grew wide. "Pleased to meet you. So how do you know Marty?"

"We have friends in common." 

"That's nice," he said quietly.

Marty came in the living room with a glass of tea for her, "Here I thought you might need this," she offered obviously laughing at Jesse's moment of candor. "Jesse this is my cousin Gage. Gage this is my friend Jesse."

"We've met," said Gage with a twinkle in his eye.

"So you have," Marty said smartly. "Is everyone hungry? Dinner is almost done."

"I'm starved," Gage said in a pathetic little voice. 

Laughing she patted his back, "You're always starving. I'm going to take out a second mortgage just to pay the grocery bill." 

He laughed good naturedly before heading toward the kitchen. 

Marty grinned at Jess pointing to the corner of her mouth saying, "You have a bit of drool, right there, did you know," then turned her laughter floating back to Jesse? 

Closing her eyes while groaning at the image she knew would be indelibly printed on her mind those of a six foot four dark haired, golden skinned God, with the palest blue eyes she'd ever seen. Jesse knew that she probably was drooling. Releasing a sigh she followed Marty. 

They sat around the table talking until a timer went off, then Marty got up to take the enchiladas from the oven. On the table was chips and salsa that they had been nibbling on while waiting. 

Jesse watched as Marty scurried around the kitchen. Marty was such a sweet person, she adored her. Everyone did really. Marty was charming, everything about her elegant even in jeans and a tee shirt. There was just something about her that drew others.

Jesse on the other hand was, well to be perfectly honest, not much to look at. She wasn't a dog or anything, but she didn't stand out either. You could say she was ordinary, but in a comfortable sense. She put everyone at ease and the minute she smiled your heart melted. She didn't make friends easily but when she did she kept them, which is why she and Marty clicked so well. Marty was a beautiful person, but had in the past been burned by shallow people. She learned to be cautious and keep others at arm's length until she got to know their character. Once she did however she became the most wonderful friend anyone could want. It didn't hurt that she was an amazing cook and liked to test dishes on those friends. Today Jesse was her taste tester for this new enchilada casserole and loving every minute of it. 

Grinning Jesse looked over at Gage while taking a drink of tea. "With Marty as family I'm surprised you're not fat."

He chuckled giving her a mega watt smile. "I'm very careful around her cooking. My sergeant would ream me a new one if I didn't make the cut." 

Jesse nodded eventually she got up to help her friend. Sitting there flirting with someone out of her league seemed foolish. She was fully aware that she wasn't the kind of girl that would capture his interest. She was tall, but not willowy, decent to look at, but not beautiful, her skin wasn't porcelain nor was it tan in short she was what she considered, 'almost'. Although she came close to being many things she never quite achieved the bar that was set. 

Helping gather things and setting them on the table she chatted with Marty. They joked and teased one another until ready to take their seats. Marty took her hand and then took Gages, as they bowed their heads to say grace.

It was a short simple prayer of thanks for good food and good friends that ended with amen dig in. 

Sipping her tea Jesse grinned at her friend, "Marty this is amazing." Taking another bite she closed her eyes moaning a bit in happiness. 

"Orgasm aisle five," Marty chanted absently. It was a private joke of theirs that guaranteed a laugh. Unfortunately it turned Jesse three shades of red and sent her into a coughing fit when she glanced at Gage, who smirked in response.

He laughed while patting her back. "You ok."

Nodding Jesse looked up with watery eyes, "Just had something spicy lodged in my throat."

All the air left Gages lungs at that particular visual. His eyes widened and he licked his lips. 

Marty burst out laughing. "Get your mind out of the gutter soldier."

Jesse, turned red again, biting her lip. 

"Uh sorry," Gage whispered while leaning in. 

Shrugging she released a breath. "No, it's ok. I've been to the gutter a time or two."

"Hmmm." He growled playfully. 

Jesse laughed knowing he couldn't possibly be flirting with her for real. He was just being playful. They continued to enjoy the meal interspersed with very little conversation since it was too heavenly to actually pause long enough to say anything worth while. 

Eventually though they had all eaten their fill and Marty began to clear the dishes. Jesse excused herself from Gages side to help with the dishes a short time later, why covet something you could never have, it was a waste of time, besides Marty needed her more than Gage did. 

The girls giggled and talked and even blew bubbles on each other as they played in the kitchen.

Gage remained sitting at the table watching, wondering why he was so curious about this girl. He supposed it was because all of Marty's girlfriends tended to flirt with him, some were so forward he worried for his virtue. So what made this girl different? The walking wet dream comment certainly had his attention, and yet she didn't seem to pursue him even though it was obvious she was interested. He shrugged, maybe she was dating someone, but then again Marty had said that she was single, no that couldn't be it. Odd.

They cleaned up and in no time were sitting out on the patio. Marty had opened a bottle of wine and given Jesse a glass. 

"I love red wine, don't you?"

Jesse grinned taking the glass, "It always makes me feel warm and cuddly."

They sat drinking and giggling for a while when Marty went to give Jesse a refill. 

Shaking her head she smiled, "No, I have to drive home tonight."

Marty laughed. "Have another and spend the night."

Tilting her head feeling completely relaxed she nodded. "If you insist."

"I do," she said firmly. "Drink up girl you're gonna be here a while."

They both sat there giggling like school girls talking about work and the week they had. 

It was growing late when Gage peeked outside to see them both grinning stupidly sloppy drunk with two empty bottles of wine beside them.

"Wow, what's gotten into you two?"

"Wine," Marty chirped.

"Do I need to lock up the liquor cabinet young lady?"

Nodding she giggled. "Probably."

"Since I don't relish the idea of nursing you back to health, why don't you both stop while you're ahead? Come on it's bed time now. 

Marty giggled, "So, is Jesse sleeping with you or me?"

Gasping in surprise Jesse shouted, "I can't go to bed with a wet dream."

Both Gage and his cousin burst out laughing. 

Stumbling toward her friend she pulled on Marty's arm, moving her a half an inch from Gage, before attempting a drunk whisper, "He's too good looking to want an 'almost'. Not that I wouldn't want to, but look at him," they both turned their gazes on Gage. "Now look at me." Suddenly sesame street popped into her head and she started to sing, "One of these things is not like the other..."

Marty released a sigh. She knew about Jesse's insecurities and because he was standing right next to them and their overly loud conversation Gage now new about them as well. Fortunately she was too drunk to realize what she'd done. 

"Come along girls let's get you both in bed." 

"Thanks Gage," Marty said stumbling into the house holding Jesse's hand while giggling a bit. 

"Kick off your shoes and climb in," he said in a deep authoritative voice, watching to make sure they did what they were told. 

Marty's bed was filled with deep fluffy pillows that you could just sink into. And the girls fell into them with a new round of giggles. 

"Good night Marty," he said quietly shutting off the light. 

The girls hadn't heard him but were quieting down and eventually drifted off to sleep a short time later. Releasing a breath he wondered about Jesse and whether she might be right. He'd always dated women that were, he supposed, equal to him in the looks department. Shrugging he scratched his head, maybe you just can't control who you're attracted to. Gage went back to the living room relaxing on the sofa while channel surfing. 

The next morning was rougher than most. Just the thought of breakfast sent her stomach into a fit. Shuffling out of the bedroom head down she made it to the kitchen and quite literally walked into an immovable object.

Looking up in confusion Jesse frowned then closed her eyes on a groan when she realized she'd walked into Gage.

"Wow you look awful," he said resting a hand on her shoulder. 

She winced and her eyes filled with tears. Everything hurt and she had what was shaping up to be a migraine. 

"Aw baby don't cry, come on we'll find you some aspirin and I'll put you into a nice hot bath when were through. "

Wrapping his arm around her he led her through the house to the bathroom where the medicine cabinet sat full of wonderful drugs for relieving the very worst of headaches. 

Once she'd downed the aspirin he took her hand leading her through Marty's room into her large master bath. Sitting her down on an animal print foot stool that sat beside the tub he then began to run water for her bath, grabbing some bath salts and oils to make it and her smell wonderful. Resting her head on her knees she listened to the water rush into the tub while Gage scurried about. God this was nice, she thought, to have someone take care of her or to even care that she had a headache. It was very nice. 

He had finished up and was kneeling in front of her when she opened her eyes once more. "It's ready now. Get out of those clothes and I'll have Marty find you something to wear, for when you come out."

They were close his face was mere inches from hers. Nodding she smiled. "Thanks Gage, you're my new best friend."

A rumble from within was his answer, a very sexy laugh, which of course meant nothing, he wasn't flirting this was how he was and Jesse needed to remember that. 

With a sigh she stood up turning toward the water and began unbuttoning her shirt. 

"Have a nice bath," he whispered knowing that the bathroom echoed, not wanting to give her headache any reason to pound harder. 

Marty was sitting on the edge of her bed looking a little rough around the edges. "What were you just doing?"

"Helping Jesse, she's hung over with a headache."

"Me too." 

His face turned thoughtful. "I'll get you some aspirin and water. Be right back."

Marty nodded. "Thanks Gage."

Once she'd taken the pills she used the guest bath to take a quick shower before returning to her room to dress. 

Her hair was still wet but she didn't think she could handle hearing the high pitch whine of a hair dryer near her head so she pulled it back into a pony tail and slipped on a white cotton skirt with a deep purple knit top. 

Taking a seat on the sofa next to her cousin she released a sigh. "Remind me next time of my limit."

"I'll try," he murmured. 

Turning her head to the side to look at him she said, "So what was that about earlier?"

His brow furrowed, "What"?

"Well, without putting too fine a point on it," she began, "I've never known you to run a bath for anyone, well I take that back, you've done it for me a time or two, but that's different, never have you done it for my friends."

Gage smirked, "That's because I'm afraid of being raped by them."

Marty grinned, "You're probably right."

"Jesse's different," he said quietly. 

Her eyebrows raised into her hairline as a slow smile filled her face. "Do tell cousin."

Groaning he released a sigh. "She doesn't ignore you when I'm in the room."

Marty nodded, having encountered that more than she would like to admit. 

"She hasn't thrown herself at me or acted different when we were alone."

"Thank goodness, it's really embarrassing when they do that, makes me wonder what I was thinking." Marty was recalling two years ago when she had invited a girl from work to taste test and found her on her knees pulling at the fastenings of her cousins jeans. Apparently she wanted to taste him first.

Gage blushed, thinking about that specific moment as well, "Yeah tell me about it."

"Jesse's not that type, that's why I like her. She admires beauty, but more from afar," Marty offered quietly.

"Then she'll always be a close friend," he offered quietly, "I think I would like her as a friend too."

Marty was somewhat surprised, but pleased. "I'm glad we agree."

For the rest of the morning they sat quietly, Marty nursing her hangover and Gage thinking about his new uncomplicated friend. 

"When Jesse finally left the tub the water had grown tepid. She still was foggy minded, but the headache had lessened a great deal. It was as she was climbing out of the monstrosity that took up an entire corner of the bathroom that the oil on her body, especially the bottom of her feet, turned out to be her downfall.

She screamed as her foot slid on the tile while she was lifting herself from the tub causing her to pull some muscle she didn't know existed down the back of her leg while she slid into the splits with one leg still caught in the tub then falling onto her side and striking her head on the tiled floor. Whimpering and crying she tried to curl up into a ball but her foot was still caught on the edge of the tub and was throbbing in pain. 

Marty rushed into the bathroom and saw Jesse on the floor she was about to help when she saw how her foot was dangling over the edge of the tub. Something was wrong with it. 

"Gage!"

All color left his face the minute he walked into the bathroom. Jesse wasn't lucid she looked dazed and shaken. Marty had tears streaming down her eyes. 

When his cousin pointed to the obviously broken foot that was dislocated as well holding onto the lip of the tub he almost lost it. 

"Call 911."

Marty ran to get the phone. 

Jesse whimpered and Gage sat beside her, stroking her hair. "I can't move you, not without the paramedics. They'll be here shortly."

He didn't leave her side just sat there trying to make her comfortable until the ambulance got there. 

This was a new one for them, but they acted professional. Because of the position she was laying in one leg behind her the other in front and she on her side, it took three paramedics lifting her simultaneously before they could arrange her properly and strap her onto a gurney, securing her foot so that it wouldn't move.

Marty rode in the ambulance with her, and Gage followed in the car. They both sat in the waiting room waiting on news of her injuries. 

Eventually she was wheeled out to them with a hyper extended knee, a broken left foot and a sprained right one. "Oh God, I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry Jesse," Marty was holding her tightly while sobbing her apologies.

Jesse summoned a smile for her. "They gave me great pain killers, I won't have to feel a thing for at least a week."

Marty laughed, "I'm so glad and since this is all my fault you're going to be staying with me until you're healed."

"That's sweet but so not necessary. I'll be fine at home." 

Shaking her head she then looked to Gage, "She's your friend too, you have to make her stay with us."

Jesse blinked somewhat surprised. 

Kneeling down his beautiful light blue eyes met her less brilliant ones, "She'll cook for you the whole time your there and you know what else?"

Jesse shook her head mesmerized by his voice. 

"You won't have to lift a finger, no chores. Please stay Jesse."

While she wanted to laugh at his reason, it was the 'please' that pulled her heart strings. With a sigh and a nod she said yes.

The first week was awkward, well it would be for any adult who had suddenly found themselves incapable of walking into a bathroom by themselves. Because both feet were out of commission and the wheel chair was too wide to fit through the bathroom door, Gage carried her to the facilities. He knew when it was that time because her face turned red at the thought of having to ask for such a personal thing. She apologized over and over every time, but he shook his head.

By the third day he'd had enough of her apologies, "You wouldn't be in this mess if it weren't for me. I'm the one who insisted on a bath!"

Jesse's mouth hung open in shock. She couldn't believe the guilt she saw in his eyes. "Gage, you can't honestly believe you're responsible for this."

"Of course, don't you?"

Jesse burst out laughing, "I'm naturally clumsy, you just haven't known me long enough to know that, but add to the less than graceful exit strategy my being hungover, barely able to think and tada you have me spread eagle on a bathroom floor."

He frowned his eyes glaring. "I'm still not happy about it."

"Good, because that would be kind of sick if you were."

He shook his head flashing a tiny grin. 

Marty and Gage took turns looking after Jesse, it wasn't as if they could take off work to watch her. So she often found herself alone in the house for several hours. And in that time she would just relax on the sofa watching television until one or both returned. It was nice, they were nice and she loved them. It never occurred to her that friends could be this generous. So when Marty came home after a particularly hellacious day at work Jesse told her it was her turn to lay on the sofa and get waited on. Then Jesse rolled out of the living room into the kitchen and ordered pizza. She also brought her a large glass of ice tea.

About a half hour later Gage arrived and ten minutes after that so did the pizza. 

Jesse grabbed some paper plates and then made a glass of tea for Gage. After setting the table she called everyone to the kitchen table. 

Marty had dozed off so was confused when she ambled into the kitchen. Then she grinned. "Wow, I can't believe you did this, thank you. I so didn't want to cook tonight."

"You really shouldn't have to," Jesse said feeling bad. 

"It's what I do for people I love," Marty said absently while grabbing a slice. 

Jesse beamed while Gage patted his cousin's shoulder affectionately. 

Then he frowned.

Jesse noticed his face, "What's wrong?"

"What do I do for the people I love," he asked in all seriousness? It had never occurred to him until today that he was always on the receiving end of things rarely on the giving. 

Marty bowed her head a bit, "You make me feel safe."

Gage released a shaky breath, leaning in he kissed Marty's temple. 

Jesse sat quietly not wanting to disturb the moment. The way Marty had said the words she knew something bad had happened in the past, and only now just realized why they were room-mates."

Taking a deep breath Marty looked up realizing that Jesse was there, biting her lip she tried to inflect the moment with a bit of humor turning to Gage again she patted his hand, "You also take them to the bathroom." 

Jesse blushed as he winked at her. 

It was a nice quiet dinner, but because Marty was so tired she went ahead and got ready for bed early choosing to watch tv from the comfort of her fluffy overstuffed pillows in bed. 


Walking Wet Dream



Jesse vegged on the sofa with Gage, watching some random program. 

"It was nice what you did tonight," he said quietly taking a sip of beer.

"What?"

"The pizza."

She rolled her eyes, "No, it wasn't anything near what she has done for me."

He shrugged. "Currently it was all that you could do and you did it."

"I guess. Maybe once everything is healed I can actually return the favor and cook her a couple of meals."

"I'm sure she'd love that." 

"Hope so." 

Around ten that night they both decided it was time to crash. Unfortunately when he carried Jesse to Marty's bedroom the door was locked. He was going to knock, but Jesse shook her head. "No, don't. She had a bad day and she's tired. She hasn't been alone in a week, let her sleep. I'll take the sofa."

Gage looked down at her with a smile. "No, you'll take my bed." 

Jesse shook her head. "No, not happening, I refuse." 

But she had little choice seeing as how she was currently in his arms. He carried her there anyway. 

"No Gage, I can't really, its not fair to you."

"Trust me I've had plenty of bed partners and I'm not overly worried."

The protest stopped when the air left her lungs in a rush. "Wh-what?"

Leaning in his eyes locked with hers. "How often do you get to sleep next to a walking wet dream?"

A squeak from the back of her throat and then giggles followed. "Th...," she was wheezing and could barely talk through the giggles, "this is definitely a first."

"I'm glad, now if you'll excuse me I'll go get ready for bed." 

She was sitting on the mattress lost in thought and day dreams when he finally came back in the room with only those skimpy little marine issue running shorts on. 

Her face filled with color. 

"What's wrong," he asked kneeling by the bedside?

"I have nothing to sleep in, my gowns in Marty's room." 

He nodded then looked up with a smile. "You can wear one of my shirts to bed."

Jesse nodded, happy to have come up with that reason as quickly as she had. She just knew she wasn't going to get any sleep with him by her side. Either that or she'd be dreaming things better left undreamt. 

Grabbing a tee shirt from the closet he threw it at her. "Here I'll give you some privacy to change."

With that he slipped out into the hall. Leaning against the wall he hummed to himself. 

When he heard her cursing her legs he slipped back into the room. He laughed while watching her try and inch her way under the covers all the while keeping her feet in the air. 

"I really, really hate this," she said watching his eyes glitter with mirth.

"Maybe I can help," he offered flipping the covers completely off her side of the bed so she could just stretch out. Then he flipped them back over her once she got comfortable. "Better?"

"Much," she said on a sigh.

"So I guess you don't roll around in bed with your foot being so sensitive and your other in a cast."

Turning her head she watched him climb in next to her.

"No, not really big on tossing and turning even when everything works. I can't wait until I can sleep on my stomach again. 

"Yeah, that would suck. Night Jesse."

"Night Gage."

And that was it, they both went to sleep as if it were common place. He didn't flirt, he didn't touch her or try anything, he was sweet and honest and perfect. Yep she had it bad.

Jesse could walk on the ball of her sprained foot by the end of the second week, and had Gage take her home to finish healing. It's not that she didn't appreciate everything they did, but felt that she was burdening them. This was better she thought to herself. Being surrounded by him was amazing and unfortunately she found herself dreaming impossible things. It was ok to think about it on occasion, but she was beginning to delude herself and needed a dose of reality, in the form of her actual life. She went back to work on Wednesday of the third week hobbling around on crutches for the remainder of the time until her cast came off. 

She didn't have much of a social life, in fact she'd only been with a man once in her life so doubted she could keep up with Gage even if he were to ask. With a sigh she adjusted to her routine once more, the one that included a work schedule. 

Marty invited Jesse over for another visit, but Jesse declined due to work and told her that once everything got back to normal she would be the one cooking Marty dinner. 

Laughing she said ok. 

It took two months in the making, but Jesse did make dinner for Marty and Gage, inviting them over for a sumptuous meal, sure it was only spaghetti and garlic bread but that wasn't the point. Jesse liked spending time with them and having them in her life wasn't so much a want as it was a need. So she indulged herself in their friendship and eventually brought out an oreo pie to cap off the evening. 

Gage's eyes grew round as he stared at his plate. The first bite he quite literally growled in pleasure. 

Jesse poked him, "So should we leave you and your desert alone or what"?

He smirked licking his spoon. 

Marty grinned at her, "This is heaven. I'm going to have to go with Gage's response on this."

Jesse laughed. 

When the evening came to a decidedly late end Gage hugged her tight. "I loved the pie."

"I couldn't tell," she said playfully pushing him away. "Ya'll be careful on the ride home." 

Marty hugged her bye then followed Gage. 

A few weeks later Marty held a dinner party with four of her friends and three of Gages marine buddy's in which Gage cooked steaks and Marty made side dishes. It was a success of course, well to an extent. One of the girls after having two beers became somewhat clingy to Gage. An understatement she was quite literally pawing him and he was trying his damndest to get away, finally after cornering him in the hall near the bathroom he said. "Look I'm sorry, but we can't I'm seeing someone."

"No you're not," Erica spat angrily, "or she'd be here. "I wouldn't let you near another woman if you were mine."

Releasing a very heavy sigh his eyebrow arched he said firmly and perhaps a bit lethally, "She is here and she does care so take your hands off me."

Taking a step back she huffed indignantly, thankfully his best friend Taylor, who liked to play it fast and loose arrived. 

"Hey Gage, am I interrupting something," he asked in a husky voice while staring at the garish Erica? 

Shaking his head he gave a grin nodding to the girl who was still pouting, although her eyes had begun to roam Taylors form. "Erica was just telling me how much she'd like to get to know you, but I said you were probably spoken for." 

Gage rolled his eyes at his friend and Taylor knew what that meant. Immediately he turned on the charm backed Erica into a corner and started flirting pretty damn heavily with her. 

Releasing a sigh he walked back into the kitchen only to feel another female put her hands on him. His peripheral vision said it was Samantha this time. She was lightly stroking his arm, saying he looked tense and could she maybe help him. "No thank you," he said quietly, "that's what girlfriend's are for." 

Pulling her hand back she tilted her head, "I'm sorry, I didn't realize you were seeing anyone." 

Feeling bad for taking his anger out on her when Erica had started the whole mess he apologized, "It's ok, we just started dating."

She shook her head grinning, "So I guess I'm not the first to hit on you tonight?"

Releasing a sigh and a laugh, he said, "Not really." 

"Alright, well again I'm sorry hope your evening gets better." Taking a step back she turned to go out on the terrace where Marty and Jesse had remained laughing and cutting up with Jeff. 

Mark and Tiffany were conspicuously missing for most of the evening, but eventually returned looking a bit rumpled. "Tiffany isn't feeling well and I offered to take her home." 

Everyone knew that was code for a hookup so Marty simply grinned and said goodnight to them both, winking at Tiffany as she waved goodbye. 

Taylor and Erica came out on the porch a minute later, "Did I see Tiffany leave," she asked slightly confused?

Everyone nodded and she looked over at Samantha who was now chatting up Jeff. Looking at the faces of those left she suddenly gasped. He was dating her surely not, she was nothing special. 

Marty heard the girl gasp and then saw Erica focus a less than pleasant expression in Jesse's direction.

Jesse was sitting next to Gage relaxing and listening to the others with her eyes closed. He leaned in to ask her something and she nodded heading into the house a moment later. 

Erica followed her.

"He picked you, out of everyone here why the hell would he choose you?"

Shaking her head Jesse grabbed a glass and poured some ice tea. "I'm sorry, what are you talking about?" Jesse hadn't a clue why Erica was so agitated.

"I can't believe you have the nerve to pretend you're not sleeping with Gage. God I'd be shouting it to the whole world, and yet he went and chose some ignorant troll like you to, to bang."

Jesse's mouth fell open even as the glass fell to the floor shattering on impact. They both rushed to clean the mess even as she continued to spew venom.

"You're so useless why in the hell would Gage want to fuck some little nothing like you," she said grabbing something to start picking up the broken pieces?

Marty and Gage had rushed into the kitchen after hearing something break only to hear Erica's demeaning and cruel words. 

Taylor had been just inside the doorway since Erica left his side and heard everything. He was used to women being catty but this took the cake. She was being a total bitch and that never looked attractive on anyone. 

Gage was furious, sure it was his fault for creating a fake girlfriend, but Erica had no say over his life and why she was being so cruel was beyond him. "That's between me and Jesse. Who I fuck is none of your business."

Jesse looked stunned.

Erica gasped in surprise turning to see him on the other side of the bar.

Marty was looking back and forth between Gage and Jesse, but only said something about getting a broom. 

When the broken glass was cleaned up Jesse went ahead and got a fresh drink for Gage, not knowing what else to do.

Thankfully Samantha and Jeff were still outside talking and laughing so Jesse headed to the bathroom to try and settle her nerves. Although she thought at times that she might not be much to look at, surely she had something to recommend her. Tears filled her eyes as she stared into the mirror questioning herself. 

Gage knocked on the door then opened it a second later. "Hey." He could see how damp her eyes appeared and frowned. "You don't really believe anything she had to say do you?"

Jesse shrugged, "I don't know, maybe."

"I'm really sorry, it's just I got tired of being pawed by her and the others, well I said I was dating someone and that they were here."

"So she's just jealous because she can't have you."

Taking a deep breath while releasing a sigh he shrugged, "Unfortunately yeah. It's annoying as hell, but I am sorry I drug you into this. It never occurred to me that she would hurl insults."

Nodding Jesse smiled into the mirror her eyes catching his in the reflection. "Is it wrong, me being happy that she can't have you?"

He gave the most enchanting smile she'd seen by far. "Naw, I feel the same way. Come on now, I'm dying for dessert."

Having said those words while wrapping his arm around Jesse in a half hug, he saw Erica glare as she grabbed her purse to leave. 

Knowing she had heard something that could be construed a different way made Gage want to grin, but he held back, leading Jesse away from the diva into the kitchen. 

Tyler came into the kitchen as Gage pulled the oreo pie from the fridge. "Hoo-rah brother, that looks amazing."

"Jesse made it, it's my favorite." 

"It's about to become mine as well from the looks of it."

Jeff and Samantha came in a short time later hearing the happy conversation that filled the room after every bite. 

"What are ya'll eating," Samantha asked curious?

"Oreo pie," moaned both marines.

"Hell yeah," said Jeff, "where's mine?"

Jesse laughed grabbing him a plate. "Would you like to try a little Samantha?"

"Call me Sam and of course, but put a lot on there, that way I can leave some and not feel I ate too much." 

Marty laughed, helping herself to a plate as well. 

"I absolutely love this stuff."

"Yeah me too," said Jesse, it's always a crowd pleaser.

"Especially for hungry Marines," noted Marty. 

"So good," moaned Samantha beaming at Jesse. 

When everyone was finished they leaned back glancing at the pan as if trying to decide how much more they could eat.

"Don't worry there's another in the fridge, just for the poor Marine's who have to go back to their barracks." 

Jeff and Tyler high fived one another.

Tyler jumped up swinging Jesse around merrily. 

When he stopped Jeff gave her an affectionate hug and kiss on the cheek. "You're the bestest."

"That she is," Gage said with a twinkle.

The night ended on a high note and Jesse soon made her way home, light one baking dish, that she was certain would disappear, since guys never thought of things like that.

Samantha hugged Marty thanking her for such a great evening and then hugged Gage, telling him how lucky he was to have both Jesse and Marty in his life. He agreed whole heartedly. 

When everyone left and it was just Gage and his cousin she cornered him. "What on earth was that about earlier?"

Leaning back on the cabinet he groaned. "That slut friend of yours kept grabbing me, I thought she was going to rape me in the hall, until I told her I was dating someone."

"And that stopped her?" Marty was being sarcastic.

Gage groaned, "It almost didn't until I told her my girlfriend was here and to get her hands off me."

"Wow, so she did the math and came up with Jesse as your true love."

He nodded. "She really hurt her. I'm still pissed about that." 

"No more dinner parties for Erica, check. What is it about guys that turn normal women into raving shrews."

"I don't think Erica is normal. She's a total whore and you need to rethink her as a friend of any kind."

Marty's eyes widened in surprise, she'd never seen him so angry certainly not over something that had happened to him a million times before. "Wow she really got to you didn't she?"

His eyes held hers briefly. "Not me, I can take care of myself, but she hurt my friend and that I won't have."

Her face softened hearing his possessive words. "You're such a good person." 

Rolling his eyes as a blush filled his face he walked to his bedroom. "Night Marty."

"Night."

Jesse became a regular at dinner parties and just hanging out whenever Marty needed company. 

It was on one of those Saturdays that Marty and Jesse were watching chick flicks with a glass of red wine when the discussion of their first time came up. 

"It was horrible." Marty giggled, "Bobby was a virgin too and neither of us knew what we were doing." 

Jesse laughed. "Wow, so not very romantic huh."

"Not in the least, we were both sixteen and nervous as hell. His grandma had the ears of a canine and was always walking in at the worst possible times, we did it while she was at church."

"Oh my God, no, you lost your virginity on the Sabbath." Jesse got a case of the giggles. "You're so going to hell!" 

Marty laughed even harder, tears coming out of her eyes, "I know right. Ah but he tried so hard and was such a sweetie." Taking a sip from her glass she looked over at Jesse, "So what about you how old were you when you lost it"?

"Twenty-two," she said on a blush. 

"Wow, you waited that long, good grief, surely it had to be better than mine. Did you get a college guy that knew what he was doing?"

Jesse frowned a moment while looking in her glass. "Not really. I-I was his pledge test. He needed to do a virgin."

"Well that sucks, where'd you do it?"

Jesse started giggling, "On my spongebob sheets."

Marty roared laughing, "You had sponge bob sheets in college."

She turned pink sipping her wine and laughing at the absurdity of her first time. 

"Did you keep them, as a souvenir," she asked facetiously still giggling?

"No, it was horrible and not worth the effort besides they were covered in blood and I couldn't get it all out." 

Marty's laughter stopped completely, "Wait what?"

Jesse looked around the room anywhere, but at Marty. "There was a lot of blood." Shrugging she took another drink. 

"Wow, that sucks. Did it hurt, when you had sex?"

Jesse rolled her eyes, "It was excruciating. I'll never do that again."

Marty nodded, then the words finally penetrated her mind until she understood. 

"Jesse, you've never had sex other than that first time."

Taking a long swallow of her wine she smiled at her friend, shaking her head furiously. "I don't want to."

"What did that rat do? I mean yeah my first time was bad, but I knew it would get better with practice."

Jesse shrugged.

"What would get better with practice," Gage had just walked in and only caught that part of the conversation.

"Sex," Marty giggled. "We were talking about our first time."

His eyebrows raised high, "So whose was the worst experience?"

Marty sat up, "Jesse was duped by some pledge geek to giving it up on her sponge bob sheets."

"Alrighty then," he said with a chuckle.

"And she hasn't ever had sex again."

Gage frowned, "Uh ok."

Jesse's cheeks turned red. Anxious to change the subject she looked at him. "So how old were you your first time."

"Uh, fourteen," he said ducking his head in embarrassment. 

"With who, was it any good," Marty asked giggling again?

Jesse curious as well, sat on her legs leaning forward.

"Can't tell you, I'd have to kill you and yeah it was great," he said with a grin.

"So not fair," Marty pouted. 

"She was older wasn't she," Jesse asked her eyes dialated with wine and interest.

Marty snorted, "No, it couldn't be, one of those cougars got a hold of you didn't they"? 

Suddenly the girls burst out laughing. "A cougar, a cougar, Gage made love to a cougar." They were drinking and chanting. 

"Alright ladies that's enough wine for tonight. Both of you are going to have issues if you don't stop now."

They nodded giggling. 

"We'll be good, we promise," Marty said turning the volume up on the chick flick of choice. "Did you want to watch with us?"

"No, I need to check my email and stuff. You girls try and dry out before you turn into lushes."

Marty giggled again. 

"So if you could sleep with any guy in the world and knew it would be great who would you sleep with," Marty asked as Jesse's eyes started to close.

Jesse shrugged, "No one in particular just well."

"Well, what?"

"Maybe a walking wet dream."

A burst of laughter filled the room as both girls shared a look and then glanced back toward the hallway where he had disappeared a minute earlier.

"I'm going to go tell him you said that!" 

"No," Jesse shook her head even as Marty sprinted out of the room.

Jesse took off after her, both falling into the door way of Gages bedroom. 

Gage had taken off everything, but a tight pair of blue jockey shorts that outlined his package to perfection. 

Marty looked up at her cousin giggling then looked down at her friend on the floor. "Look at that he's getting ready for you."

Jesse's face turned three shades of red.

Although slightly embarrassed he was in the military and had been seen by all and sundry numerous times in less than the briefs so he tried to suck it up and deal with the issue at hand.

"Do I need to start locking my door," he asked in a playful tone?

"No." Jesse said trying to come to her feet. "We're really sorry Gage."




Walking Wet Dream



Winking at her, he helped his cousin to her feet. "Alright ladies, everyone out please."

"Sorry Gage," they went back to their movie, but this time Jesse's mind was lost in the beautiful man with tight blue briefs just a few steps away. 

Her sigh told Marty all she needed to know.

A few days later while Marty was making breakfast she glanced back at Gage biting her lip nervously. 

"What's on your mind Marty, I can tell something's wrong?"

"You, you don't sleep around do you?"

He cocked an eyebrow, surprised by the question. "And that would be your business because?"

She gave a shaky laugh, "Never mind, forget I asked. Sorry."

Frowning he sighed, "No, it's ok I guess. Uh no, I don't like that particular lifestyle. Do you sleep around?"

She turned with a grin, "God no, I'm waiting on Mr. Right, unfortunately he seems to be out of the country on an extended visit."

Gage laughed good naturedly. "Tell me about it." 

"I-I was just thinking about Jesse's first time and thought maybe you could help or make things better."

"I really don't think she would appreciate me delving into her personal life like that. If she wanted to confide in me that would be one thing, she's our friend and I care about her, but I'm not about to corner her and make her confess about the worst thing that ever happened to her."

"You did that to me."

Gage closed his eyes tightly. "You're my family and it's not the same thing."

"You're right, I shouldn't have said that. I'm sorry Gage, I just want to help her." 

Giving her a smile he shook his head. "I know that's why I love you. See you after work," he said walking 

out of the kitchen grabbing his keys on the way out.

Jesse turned twenty-five quietly. There was no party, no dinner and no one to celebrate with. She had known girls who would shout out their upcoming day and then expect others to organize some gala for them, like it was their right. Jesse never understood that line of thinking, maybe if she had a family then she might expect a call or card, but not friends, she'd never demand that they'd give her something just for turning another year older. It seemed selfish somehow, so she lay on her couch watching reruns. Maybe everyone got it wrong, she wondered if good things only came to those who asked? A smirk filled her face when she thought of Gage turning down the numerous requests for his undivided attention, then again maybe not. Even the pretty girls weren't guaranteed such a good thing as Gage.

There was a new guy in Gages unit, one who was funny as hell and a trip to be around. He and Gage got along great and as a result he was invited to the infamous dinner parties. It didn't take long to figure out why he attended though, and it had nothing to do with the food. The guy was quite the horn dog and slept with just about all of Marty's girlfriends within a month. 

Of course in the tradition of the Marine Corps he was good looking, and built, no doubt they needed little convincing of his ability and prowess. The guests seemed to view Marty's home as a restaurant/escort service. If a Marine needed a pretty girl to take to a banquet, or an evening of frolicking he'd just go to a dinner party and get a few numbers. 

Yeah some of her friends were normal and not constantly in heat, but they were few and far between. Although she did believe most of those single young Marines were looking for a nice home cooked meal for a change and did appreciate to a certain extent the kindness behind the gesture, at least she hoped that was the case. Marty deserved nothing less considering all that she gave to everyone. 

Gage had invited a few guys from his unit over for dinner one night and asked Marty to please forgo the female company for this once, he just wasn't in the mood for it. So she agreed with a grin and went to Jesse's place letting her cousin have the run of the house. 

Marty laughed when she told Jesse what he had planned and why.

"I'm not sure whether to feel sorry for him or not?" Jesse smirked. "I mean look at him, he has so much going for him and sometimes I think he hides from it." 

"He just doesn't want to get burned." Marty shrugged. 

Shaking her head Jesse mumbled, "I wouldn't want that to happen to him either. Do you think being that beautiful is a good thing or bad?"

Marty looked at her glass and furrowed her brow, "I think he's too tender hearted so it makes it harder for him than maybe another."

"If he was a man whore he'd be on easy street." Jesse said making them both laugh. 

"That he would."

"I'm surprised you're not in a relationship either, I mean it's crazy. You're beautiful with mad kitchen skills to get even the staunchest of confirmed bachelors to jump the fence, so what's stopping you?"

Marty sighed biting her lip, "Bad memories and a few wrong turns."

Jesse nodded, "Sorry."

With a smile Marty nodded, "One of these days there will be a good man just waiting, but until he shows up for dinner, I'll just have to keep entertaining."

She chuckled at that realizing that it was probably a better plan than going to a bar and infinitely safer since she knew that Gage would always be there. 

The guys were sitting on the back patio basically telling stories on girls and one another when the new guy looked up with a grin.

"So, whats with that Jesse chick?"

Gage took a sip of his beer.

Tyler looked up with a grin, "What do you mean"?

Matt smirked, "She's the only one who hasn't chatted me up, I was just curious."

Rolling his eyes, Jeff grinned, "That's cause she's not available, she belongs to Gage."

Gage choked on his beer forgetting about what he had said at that one party.

Matt slapped him on his back. "Dude you ok."

Eyes watering he choked back a laugh. "Yeah fine."

Grinning like the devil Matt leveled a look saying, "You're not really together are you? I mean I've never seen you touch her let alone give her the kind of look a guy gives his girl."

Tyler looked up stunned, "But Erica said..." Slapping his forehead he just shook his head. "You lied to get away from that bitch didn't you."

Gage looked away with a blush. "She was trying to molest me in the hallway it was all I could come up with."

"So whose this Erica and when can I meet her?" Matt leaned back in his chair smugly.

Jeff rolled his eyes.

Gage mumbled, "Have at her." 

And then Tyler capped it off with, "A total bitch who no doubt has some venereal disease that has yet to be named."

Gage lifted his beer in a mock toast. "Honestly if you're wanting to wet your wick at least go for someone who has some sort of moral compass."

"Wow, ok so what did she do that was so bad."

"She said some nasty things to Jesse during a party," Gage offered quietly.

"That's it," Mark asked saying he didn't know a woman who wasn't a bit catty.

"Naw this went beyond catty and Jesse's the sweetest thing. I kind of felt sorry for her." Tyler said trying to stick up for the girl. Hey when it came to dessert that's where he made his stand. 

"Well, she's not much to look at so," Matt shrugged.

"Dude that's harsh. So you'd rather have a hot bitch than a nice person, who might actually care about you for longer than the time it takes you to cum?" Jeff had put that question out looking at each man as he did so.

"Sorry dude, I'm still young, I'll take a hot bitch," Martin said laughing, "Although I have to admit that when the time does come for me to settle down that's when things might just have to get a little dull. I'm not about to put up with a diva for life."

"I think all women on occasion like a fast fuck they just won't admit it." Matt said crudely.

"Whatever dude," Jeff said taking a long sip of his beer.

"Trust me on this."

"Alright then prove it," Tyler said with a smirk. 

"Oh right like all of you haven't had every or at least most of the girls at these parties for that exact thing." Matt watched as everyone quieted looking around nervously. "See. So who haven't you slept with yet is the question?"

They each started naming names, Tyler, Jeff and Mark had a few overlapping names. And then others who might have been considered more selective still slept with at least one of them. 

Gage leaned back listening to the guys as they tried to figure out who hadn't gotten laid by at least one of them. 

"Well that leaves only two people that we know for a fact haven't enjoyed the pleasure of our company."

Gage tensed knowing what two names were soon to follow.

"Jesse and Marty."

Gage narrowed his eyes. 

It was odd how jealous he was becoming. He'd had female friends before and hadn't been quite so protective as he was at that very moment. He wanted to yell that she was off limits to everyone, but knew they would take that as a challenge. 

What was wrong with him? She was his friend, maybe this was what having a real friend was like, wanting to take care of them. He didn't know. People judged him on his looks touched him in the hopes that something he had might rub off on them, of course the same could be true for Jesse only in reverse. They didn't try to get to know her, chose not to be around her because she didn't fit some preordained version of pretty, and therefore it took longer for them to realize that she had something to offer.

Sighing lost in thought he downed his beer. 

"So did you have fun," he asked as Marty tossed her keys onto the entry table near the door?

"I always have fun with her, that's why she's my best friend."

"Nope she's my best friend," he said in a teasing voice.

"She needs to be your girlfriend and my best friend that way we'll both be happy."

His mouth opened in surprise. "Why would you think that?"

"She cares about your heart."

A slow smile filled his face. "That's nice. Does she care about yours as well?"

"Jesse cares about a lot of things," she said quietly.

"I guess you're headed to bed now," he asked quietly? 

"Yep I'm tired, how about you, did you have fun tonight?"

"Yeah it was great."

"Good. Well I'm off, love you g-night."

"Night Marty," he whispered still thinking about Jesse. 

Two weeks later everything changed. 

There was a fire at Bravo company that started with a rookie driver backing into the metal building sending sparks from impact, which ignited some spilt oil. A whoosh of sound filled the room engulfing the Hum-V and Private who screamed.

Gage and his men rushed to help the poor kid while others in the platoon grabbed extinguishers and moved other flammable things from its grasp, but the fire was just too much. It surged forward like a sentient being conquering all within its grasp. The poisonous fumes filled the cavernous area; men collapsed while wheezing for the precious oxygen that was being stripped from the building. 

Gage had grabbed the private through the flames yanking him from the window he had shattered just to get the poor kid out. There were flames, shards of glass and scalding hot metal that had touched him along the way, yet he felt nothing. Adrenaline was a powerful drug that shadowed all else. They along with several others crawled out coughing and hacking, taking sharp breaths only to expel them again. 

Fire trucks and paramedics flooded the area a short time later, but nothing could be done about the building. Water on an oil fire would only make things worse, so those who were not seriously injured were left to stand and watch it burn. 

Gage, Mark and the private were taken to the hospital, while the others sat with oxygen masks pressed to their faces refusing to leave. This was their unit, where they gathered every morning, drank coffee and lied about women. For some it was home, the only one they really knew. 

Third degree burns on his chest, hands and face along with a sliced cheek that required stitches, that was what the doctor had said. Gage sat on the hospital bed breathing fresh oxygen and then coughing it back up again. 

The kid had a few cuts on his stomach and legs from being dragged across the broken bits, but was relatively good just a few burns here and there. He too, coughed and took another breath before coughing again. 

Mark's condition was a little more critical as he had been standing on the oil spill that ignited the building. His legs were badly burned from calf to knee. Thankfully he sprinted from the fire fairly quickly after that, but he would definitely be looking at some down time for his injuries. 

Pulling the mask from his face Gage looked at the kid, "You ok Dresden?"

Coughing again he put his thumb up in an 'ok' gesture.

"What about you O'Connor?" 

Mark winced a bit as a nurse checked his legs, "Hoorah brother."

Nodding he laid back in bed trying to relax. 

Marty got the call at work that Gage was in the hospital and high tailed it out of there. She was shaking as she entered the emergency room. 

The minute she saw him lying there eyes closed with an oxygen mask on his face she nearly fainted. There was a startling white bandage across the left cheek and two more wrapped around his hands. 

Slowly she came up to the bed tears filling her eyes. "G-gage?"

Clear, bright blue eyes looked up into her face, pulling the mask from his mouth he forced a smile. "Hey Marty, how was your day?"

She laughed even as tears fell down her cheeks. 

Gage gave her a smile. "I'm fine, don't cry please. I'm sure they'll let us go home soon."

"Us?" Marty looked one bed over realizing that Mark was next to him. 

"Mark, you were hurt too?" 

His eyes came open and a tired smile replaced the frown that had been there moments before, "Marty, what no food for a French fried soldier?"

"Don't worry, I'll cook you up something nice once you're out of here and feeling better."

Nodding he rested his head against a pillow. 

"I'm just going to go find the doctor and find out what it's going to take to get you out of here," she said looking at Gage who had once again closed his eyes in rest. 

The doctor on call made a hard decision, but it was for their own good, he wanted all three men to stay for a few days to oversee treatment of their burns and also avoid the chance of infection. None were happy about it in the least and the food they provided offered little comfort. 

Marty called Jesse the first day to tell her what had happened and then both visited each day after. By day three he was anxious to get out of there, especially since Marty had promised him a home cook meal. 

Jesse felt it best to wait a while before visiting him at the house. Although she was anxious to see him again and hear about his progress, she knew he was healing and needed to rest. 

People are so funny. They don't visit as often as they should or tell you how they feel until something like this happens, then everyone descends at once like locusts when all that's really wanted is the peace and quiet that was previously lamented.

She needed to be patient and wait it out knowing Marty would call if she needed anything.

Two months had passed and she hadn't heard anything. Jesse had to remind herself daily that he was healing from burns and those took a heck of a lot longer. She wondered if she should call, surely she wouldn't be imposing.

Marty looked at her cell phone to see Jesse's name pop up. 

"Jesse?"

"Marty, I'm so glad to hear your voice. How are you?"

"Fine, just sitting here trying to unwind."

"You sound stressed, what's wrong. Am I calling at a bad time, because if it is you can tell me?"

Enjoying the voice at the other end she started laughing and crying, "No, no I just I've missed you, why haven't you called or come over?" She didn't mention how upset Gage was, not yet, she needed to know that Jesse wasn't avoiding him on purpose.

"Gage needed to heal. I didn't want to get in the way of that. Burns take a lot out of a person. He needed rest not foot traffic and flowers."

Marty released a pent-up breath. "We had nothing, but that for the first three weeks, I thought I was going to go insane if his or my phone rang one more time."

"No sympathy, check. So what would help the most right now?"

Looking at the phone in wonder she sighed. "Would you come over and cook dinner for me, please. I-I..." Tears streamed down her cheeks, "I just can't and Gage needs to eat, so it's not..."

"Stop, you don't have to explain. I'm headed to the grocery store and will be at your door in oh a half hour. Leave the front door unlocked, grab a glass of wine and crawl into that bed of yours. I'll wake you for dinner, or not, you decide with a note on the counter top." The phone then made an audible click signaling the end to the conversation.

Marty's face lit in happiness. Getting up from the sofa she did what she was told, grabbed a glass of wine and went to her bedroom where she slept soundly for the first time in months. 

Jesse came in and went to work, she boiled the penne pasta created a parmesian cream sauce to die for and finished it up with sautéed shrimp, crab and chicken. 

When the meal was ready she went in search of her one taste tester. 

Lightly knocking on the door, he muttered a reply. Walking in she found him lounging in his bed, he looked nothing like himself, not just the parts that were healing but his eyes they looked so very sad. 

"Time to eat."

Gage looked up in surprise. "What are you doing here?"

"Helping out. I missed you both. How are you healing?"

"See for yourself," he said angrily.

"Slowly, but surely by my guess, burns take a long time."

Gage growled, "Yeah whatever."

He was different, very different, no wonder Marty was upset. 

"Come on and eat."

"Why bother," he muttered. 

Turning to look at him she saw the pain banked in those baby blues. Walking toward him she gently took his hand and placed it on top of her own. "I don't like eating alone and you are the perfect companion." 

His hand gripped her wrist. "Where have you been?"

With a sigh of regret she shrugged, "Giving you time to heal. Guess that's not working out so well huh?"

Coming to his feet wearing those skimpy shorts and nothing else she could see bits of shiny skin that hadn't quite finished healing along with more serious bits that would definitely take at least one more month maybe more. 

The first thing she noticed as she got close to him was his smell. It wasn't pleasant. In fact she wondered if he had ceased any kind of bathing ritual at all. 

Shaking her head she led him to the kitchen. First he needed to eat then she would wash his hair in the kitchen sink and afterward give him a sponge bath. Because of his burns he couldn't actually shower or bathe so they would just have to make do. When her grandmother was taken with alzheimers it was Jesse who bathed, fed and cared for her, for nearly two years. She didn't mind, it was a labor of love that she could point to and know she hadn't let her grandma down, now she was needed again and she would not let him down. 

"So what have you been doing while on leave?"

He shook his head, "Nothing."

"You're bored and sick to death of this aren't you?"

Gage looked up startled. "Yeah, you could say that."

"You're not getting any exercise either are you?"

He was angry, her being right was making him angrier still. "Just how in the hell do you expect me to exercise, look at me Jesse."

"I am Gage," she said with a grin. "You look wonderful to me."

His jaw dropped from shock. "Yeah right, don't patronize me, I've had enough of that."

"Then stop acting like a baby. You are alive and I'm thrilled to have you that way. I might also add that your feet are not burned and you could at the very least walk around the block for exercise. Tonight I'm going to wash your hair before getting you in the tub for a bath, you reek."

That being said she took a couple of bites of food before he could even begin a come back.




Walking Wet Dream



"I can't have a bath, that's the problem." 

"I didn't say the tub would have any water in it did I? Now hurry up and finish eating. When you're done go stand by the kitchen sink. Your hair is getting washed today. Tomorrow I'll take you to the base for a haircut."

Gage couldn't figure out where his meek Jesse went and wasn't sure what to do with her at the moment so he did as he was told and ate quietly. 

When she was finished she got up to grab the shampoo and a towel from the bathroom. 

He was standing at the sink as requested.

"Before we start, is any part of your head burned or tender? I don't want to hurt you."

"No just my forehead so be careful." He looked really nervous about the prospect of her doing this.

"Lean forward honey, over the sink, that's it."

Grabbing the spray thing she began to wet his over grown military cut. Releasing it she then took a small dollop of shampoo and rubbed it in massaging his scalp gently and efficiently until he released a sigh. Then she sprayed his hair down again ensuring that all the soap was washed away before she finished. 

Placing a towel over his head she rubbed it with a light touch just to make certain. 

"Stand up and follow me, it's time for your bath." Taking a mixing bowl from under the cabinet she headed to the bathroom with him in tow. 

He had one of those sea sponges sitting on the counter top, Grabbing it she filled the bowl with bath water and smell good salts. Mmm she sighed contentedly before putting the bowl on the floor next to the tub. 

"Take off your shorts and get into the tub please." 

Gage blushed. Those females who had once found him desirable were shunning him now. And yet here Jesse stood telling him to strip. He couldn't understand why she wasn't turned off by the site of him.

"On second thought hang on," she grabbed a towel placing it in the bottom of the tub. "That porcelain can be cold. You ready," she said turning expectantly. He wasn't and it was obvious he didn't know what to do. His face looked completely confused.

Walking up to him with a tiny grin she said, "Here let me help." And without further ado she pulled his shorts and briefs completely off him. 

He shivered and she saw what she could only guess was fear in his face. 

"Gage, look at me." 

A blush filled his cheeks but eventually his eyes met hers. 

"Turn about is fair play."

He looked confused.

To which she laughed, "Me, spread eagle, fresh out of a bath, remember?"

A smile, which hadn't been on his lips in months appeared briefly, while taking a deep breath he walked forward and climbed in the tub. 

"Now what," he asked his knees up covering himself in embarrassment. 

"Now I make you smell pretty."

Again his eyes rested on her face before shifting to look at anything else. 

"Close your eyes," she whispered before running the sponge along parts of his face and right cheek, cleaning his mouth and chin of the sauce he'd dripped during dinner and beneath to his neck. She ran the sponge around those burnt and sensitive areas on his torso that couldn't have water on them. Carefully she bathed his arms, then lifted each one high so that she could give a good thorough cleaning to the area beneath. Dipping the sponge into the soapy water in her bowl she wrung it out again and continued the process running it over his abs and hips, down his still muscular legs first the right then the left. His breathing was hitched and he wasn't able to think quite as clearly as he had a moment before. Again she dipped the sponge into her bowl but didn't wring it back into the soapy water, instead she asked him to stand up. His face was beet red knowing that he was in no condition to be standing. But she again touched him beneath his upper bicep and helped him come to that exact position. 

He bit his lip nervously when he felt the sponge brush across him once, twice and finally a third time before she put it in the bowl, then running it along his ass in a slow but proficient manner. 

Finally she declared them finished and dropped the instrument of sexual torture, as he liked to think of it, back into the bowl.

"Now," she said with all the authority of a head nurse, "stay here and I'll bring you some clean undies, then I'll go strip your bed."

Gage collapsed onto the toilet seat his body quaking with so many different feelings he didn't know what to think. 

Jesse did everything she said, then tucked him in for the night. 

Back in the kitchen, she cleaned up her mess turned on the dishwasher and kicked back on the sofa with a blanket and a glass of wine. Once the wine was gone, so was she, into a dream world from which she didn't awaken.

Marty blinked in surprise at finding Jesse out cold on her sofa. Smiling feeling somewhat rested she headed to the kitchen to make breakfast only to find Gage standing there looking lost. 

"What did you tell Jesse?"

Still uncertain about his mood Marty tread carefully. "Nothing, she, she called yesterday said I sounded stressed and asked what I needed. I asked her if she would come and make dinner that's all."

"You didn't tell her about me, nothing?"

Marty shook her head. "She said that she hadn't visited cause you needed to heal, then she told me to take a glass of wine and go to bed that she'd come and cook. So I did."

Gage nodded. 

Tilting her head she said, "I'll start breakfast if you're hungry."

Again he nodded, not certain what had gotten into Jesse.

She awoke to the smell of cooking, but that couldn't be right, she lived alone. Her fog covered brain took a few more minutes to process that she wasn't home, but had obviously fallen asleep somewhere else. 

Stretching she moved slowly from her place on the sofa, then headed toward the kitchen. 

"Hi." 

Marty turned and gave her a hug. "Thank you for coming, but you didn't have to stay."

"Gage and I have a few things we need to get done, so it was probably best that I did."

His cousin turned to look at him curiously. 

He shrugged not knowing what she had in mind. 

Eggs, bacon and biscuits later, the sated group finally started moving from the breakfast table to begin their day. 

Jesse looked at her friend closely then announced, "Marty, I'm going to be spending the day with Gage, so feel free to do whatever you want and don't make dinner he won't be here to eat it."

With that she turned to Gage saying, "Come on soldier, we've got errands to run." 

A blush filled his face, "I uh can't tie my tennis shoes." Only the backs of his hands and fingers were burned but it greatly limited their dexterity and the taut skin hurt when he flexed them. 

Jesse nodded. "I'll help you." With that she walked to the hallway closet, got them and put them on him securing them neatly before coming to her feet. "Now then let's go, oh don't forget to get your military id, we need to get on base."

With a grunt he grabbed his wallet and followed her to the car.

"Where are we going Jesse?" 

"We're going to get that mop you call hair taken care of."

He nodded, feeling, well happy he guessed.

It didn't take long just thirty minutes to get in and get out but he did feel a lot better.

"Now where to," he asked feeling lighter already.

"You tell me, where do you go for pt?"

He frowned giving her directions.

As she suspected there was a gym with a machine just made for running and walking. Perfect.

Jesse led the way into the room then told him to get on the machine and start walking. 

Ten minutes into it he was bored and upped the program to a slow run which had him out of breath much quicker than he had expected. Yep he was definitely out of shape. Forty-five minutes into the slow run and dragging tale, Jesse called a halt to his efforts. 

"Wow that's better than I could ever do. You would have kept going if I had let you." 

Frowning not liking his running time he simply nodded. 

"Now what," he asked knowing the day wasn't over since it had barely begun and Jesse had made a point of telling Marty not to expect them back. 

"We go visit Mark and the other friend of yours."

"Dresden," he mumbled.

"Yeah him. Come on, I doubt you've talked to them since the accident.

He realized that he hadn't and it did shame him a bit. 

"So, show me where their barracks are."

Directing her down one street, up another and around a corner they soon found themselves at a rather boring metal building. 

"Definitely needs a lady's touch," Jesse commented absently. 

Gage groaned, "Enough ladies visit without it looking like a tea room."

Smirking she let Gage lead the way although she opened the doors for him.

They found Mark in his room watching a tiny tv on his desk. It was a lousy way to spend a day let alone months when you had no work or anything else to distract you. 

Marks legs were the only things that suffered, but seemed to be healing, there was more shiny spots than crusted skin and that was a good thing. 

They talked for a little bit then both men went in search of Dresden. The kid looked up apologetically to Gage, but it wasn't long before all three began kidding around and had some good natured razzing for each other. 

After an hour of that Jesse told the other two to get dressed that they were all going out. 

Dresden had never met Jesse so he followed her request without thought. Mark on the other hand shared a look with Gage, wondering what the devil was going on? 

He shrugged at his buddy and mouthed, "Just go with it".

The kid wore his pt clothes like Gage had, because they were soft and didn't touch as much of his burned skin. 

Mark wore a t-shirt and cargo shorts showing off his badly scarred legs. 

All three climbed in Jesse's sedan and she took off. "I'm going to stop at the grocery store to get a few things and then we'll head out, ok?"

Again they nodded. 

Quickly she ran in leaving them in the car while she gathered soda's three roasted chickens, a French bread loaf, some chips and dips and of course the ingredients for oreo pie. 

They arrived at her apartment a half-hour later. Gage had never been and didn't know where he was until she told him. 

Everyone climbed out Mark was the only one who could help carry the groceries though, and he did so as they entered the front door on the ground floor and walked up the stairs just inside. 

"This is nice," Mark commented a few minutes later. 

"Not bad, especially the tv," said Dresden, his eyes fixated on the flat screen. "Can I live here," he whined?

Jesse laughed. 

"I'm going to get ya'll going with something to eat and snacks to follow. While I'm doing that feel free to snoop, channel surf or watch a movie and just relax."

Mark claimed the lazy boy which propped his legs up perfectly. He released a satisfied sigh the minute it went into recliner mode. 

Gage shared the sofa with Dresden propping their feet up on the coffee table. 

Jesse gave everyone some tea and then set their plates of chicken, french bread and potato salad within reach. Chips and dip were set out as well. Then she began making the dessert which would inevitably follow. 

The boys talked, bitched, whined and poked fun at each other for the remainder of the day, they even broke out a few of her old video games and attempted to play them. Unfortunately Gage's hands wouldn't let him so he sat and watched the other two. 

Groans of happiness could be heard the minute the oreo pie was brought out. Josh, or Dresden as they called him had never had it before, but was thrilled at the thought of digging in.

Around nine-thirty that night, Jesse called it an evening and took them back.

"Thanks for letting me tag along, I had a great time," Josh was exhausted, but grinning from ear to ear as he got out of the car. 

Mark nodded, "That was wonderful, especially the dessert." 

Jesse giggled, "Good I'm glad you enjoyed yourselves. Goodnight."

They waved once more before disappearing into the barracks. 

Her last stop, she got out of the car to lead Gage into the house. 

Placing her hand on his neck as they stopped in the entry way, she wanted to hug him, but had to settle for touching him in the one place she could see wasn't burned. "It's late you need to sleep and then when you get up in the morning I want you to go for a walk. Get out of the house and just walk, no running. Do you hear me?"

A grin filled his face, "I hear you."

Answering with a smile she nodded her head sharply, "Good. Now if you want, need anything or are just bored, you call me. And stop picking on your poor cousin, she's worried about you, so play nice."

Again he nodded not knowing how she knew, but realizing how badly he had been treating Marty.

"Good night Gage, tell Marty I'll call her tomorrow." 

"Night Jesse."

She left and Gage felt lost. It occurred to him that he didn't want her to leave. 

Turning to lock the front door he went to check on Marty. 

After a quick slap on the door he heard her shuffling to get up and open it. 

"You're home," she said nervously, uncertain of his mood.

"Yeah, I had a good time."

"Where'd you go?"

"Barbershop," he said running his open hand across his head, "then a quick work out, after that I saw O'Connor and Dresden."

A smile filled Marty's face, "I'm so glad, how are they?"

"Better than me, I think." Ducking his head in shame he whispered, "Marty I'm so sorry, I've been an ass." 

Tears slipped from her eyes, "It's ok Gage, I know this has been and still is hard to deal with. When you're all better I'll give you a big hug. Ok?"

He nodded, "Never thought I'd say this, but I miss being touched."

Marty offered a sympathetic murmur. "I know."

Gage sighed, "I'm tired, think I'll turn in, night Marty love you."

She hadn't heard those words in six weeks and grinned happily. "Love you too."

The next Saturday, Jesse called Gage to see if he was up for some more pt. He agreed and had her drive him to the base facilities. They met up with Mark and Josh as well, attempting exercises that didn't disturb their crispy parts. After an hour and a half she could see the boys were wiped and took them back to the barracks. 

Once she arrived at Gages she walked him up to the front door opening it for him. "You need a bath soldier, you're all sweaty." 

Biting his lip nervously he asked if she would mind doing that for him again. Shaking her head she gave a smile. "Go stand in the kitchen while I get the shampoo." 

Peeling off his damp shirt slowly so as not to hurt himself, he eventually got it off over his head throwing it to the floor. 

"Bend over," she said placing her hand on his lower back before taken the kitchen sink hose thing and washing his hair. Once that chore was done she dried his hair and sent him to the bathroom. 

Grabbing the same bowl from last time she repeated the things she did in the last bath she gave, trying hard not to think of him in sexual terms. The first time it was easy because he was being a jerk and he was in pain. This time he was almost himself, the pain was still there of course, but he was looking at her differently. There was a tension that hummed in the air. One that was exciting, if she were being honest. 

When she asked him to stand so she could finish, he again was at full mast. She released a shaky breath as his own hissed out at the feel of the sponge on his underused organ. 

"Almost done," she whispered as he stood there trembling. "Alright we're done, come on and get out."

He nodded moving slowly his groin begging for her attention. 

Get some clothes on and I'll see you in the kitchen, "Are you hungry?"

He nodded, not knowing what to say or think.

She disappeared through his bedroom door quickly, collapsing on a kitchen chair with her head resting on her arms.

"You ok," Marty asked coming around the corner with some groceries in hand?

Jesse swallowed a lump in her throat. Looking at the table, "Yeah, I uh just have a lot on my mind I guess." 

Marty could tell there was something more, but didn't pry. "So what do you and Gage have planned today," she asked unloading the groceries?

Shrugging she said, "I was going to grab us some lunch, did you want something?"

"Sure." 

It took them a bit to agree on a fast food place, but when they did Gage was coming out of the bedroom. 

"Hey Marty." 

When she turned to look at her cousin he had this sheepish, nervous expression then she looked back at Jesse who hadn't really looked up yet. 

"Jesse's gonna get us some lunch what do you want?"

The minute he said cheeseburger and fries she practically sprinted out the door.

Jesse turned to Gage cornering him. "What on earth is going on between you two? You were fine this morning."

Gage's face filled with color. "She gave me a sponge bath after my work out."

"And," Marty asked not realizing that his feelings were engaged.

"It was sexy as hell, alright."

She burst out laughing. Not the response he had expected. "Ok, so did you do anything about it or did she?"

Shaking his head he muttered, "I wish. I don't think she knows how."

Marty's eyes grew round, "Oh." 

"Yeah 'oh'. Not to mention I'm in no condition to teach her anything."

"Not now but soon."

"Soon is not soon enough." A blush filled his cheeks.

She giggled. He glared. 

"It's not funny, hurts like hell and I can't even do what comes naturally, then add to it these little bathing rituals and I'm about to lose my sanity."

"Not trying to get all Dr. Phil on you, but you really need to talk to her about this."

"I can't, not about this."

"Missing all those sluts now, aren't you," Marty asked jokingly with a gleam.

Jesse was falling in love. Yeah she had always had a bit of a crush on Gage, but now everything just seemed complicated. They were close friends, but that was it, there was nothing there. She tried to convince herself that she was imagining more, but so far was failing in the attempt. Her heart stopped listening to common sense pounding wildly whenever he was near.

He was standing in the kitchen his nerves already raw while trying to open the bottle of pills he needed for the pain, but his hands weren't cooperating and making the pain worse while trying to operate the stupid safety cap. Releasing a feral yell he threw the bottle at the wall in frustration.

"Gage, Gage are you ok?"

He had been alone just seconds before, apparently Jesse arrived during his little tirade. He definitely did not need this. He was on edge and frustrated damn, damn, damn. "Kitchen," he growled.

Closing his eyes tightly he could hear her heels click on the tile floor. "Hey what's wrong?"

Pointing to the pill bottle that lay taunting him on the floor, he moaned, "It wouldn't open."

With a nod she walked over picked it up and opened it for him. "How many?"

"One."

"Water?"

He nodded, feeling useless while she moved around efficiently doing the simple every day stuff he couldn't. Eyes misting over, he looked away while blinking back his frustration.

She saw the sadness in his eyes and nearly wept from it. Reaching up she put her hands in his hair stroking him affectionately in an attempt to soothe his upset.

"Mmm," he moaned, "that's nice." 

Leaning against the counter he shifted his legs apart so she could stand closer. His head lowered his breathing became labored. Slowly he got closer and closer until his lips met hers. Her eyes flew open to meet his clear blue steady stare. They said all she needed to know. She buried her fingers in his hair as he deepened the kiss. 

Resting his palms flat against her hips he continued to enjoy their exchange, his lips traveling across her cheek, down her neck and then back up again. She was moaning and gasping, desperate for his touch. When one of her hands slipped to his stomach running it across the still defined muscle there, his breath hitched. Having been without a woman or even his own hand for two months his body responded and began to tingle in excitement, spilling forth in a furious burst of wetness that soaked his briefs and shorts. 




Walking Wet Dream



He cried out, sounding as though he were in pain. Jesse pulled back instantly afraid she had hurt him. Using her hips to pull her back toward him, he rested his uninjured cheek on her chest while attempting to gather his breath.

"Did, did I hurt you," she asked tentatively stroking his hair?

He groaned, and laughed simultaneously. "It was a good hurt. Trust me," he murmured his energy drained.

She smiled kissing the top of his head. 

"Can we lie down," he mumbled feeling sleepy and sated?

Grinning she felt his open palm on the small of her back as he propelled her toward his room. 

"You go first, I'll be right back."

Gage shuffled to the bathroom seeing the huge wet spot on the front of his shorts laughing. Shaking his head he removed them completely, then carefully wet a washrag and cleaned himself, before returning to his room in all his glory.

Jesse was lying on his bed, her eyes closed when she heard the click of the door and saw him enter. A blush filled her face although she didn't look away. She'd seen him naked before just not in this particular setting. Reaching for a pair of shorts he quickly put them on before climbing on the bed next to where she sat. 

"Will you take a nap with me," he asked stretching out.

She smiled. "I'd love that." Her mind raced at what this meant, his kiss this new intimacy. Maybe it all equaled to nothing and he just needed to be kissed. She didn't know and couldn't ask it wasn't as if he'd asked her out on a date or anything, so she lay there her mind reeling from the knowledge that even if he considered it nothing, she had for a moment been his. Curling up next to him she drifted off a short time later. 

He felt as if he were floating. Never had an orgasm made him feel so completely at peace. His eyes drifted shut, a smile plastered on his face as he slipped into a deep contented rest. 

Shadows fell over the room when she woke up. Her eyes looked about confused. Then she noted the empty space next to her and wondered if she had dreamt the thing in the kitchen. No, it was real she was certain of it. Taking a deep breath she sat up wiped the sleep from her eyes hastily and headed toward the kitchen. 

"You liked it, but you can't date her?"

"Look at me Marty. I'm in no condition to date or do much more than what we did earlier, although God knows I enjoyed it.

"Who says you have to do more. You can still kiss and touch, why do you have to have everything all at once? I doubt very seriously our virginal Jesse could handle you at full tilt."

"Damn it Marty, I've thought about it, this can't happen again, she would only get hurt."

"What can't you do again? All you did was kiss, there isn't anything to get so upset over."

"Don't you understand, I kissed and touched Jesse?"

Marty narrowed her eyes at her cousin not understanding why he wasn't over the moon. 

"She's not..."He paused briefly, giving Marty a chance to yell at him further.

"Not what, what is she not Gage? Not beautiful?

"Stop," he said on a low whisper.

"Not your usual type, what is it oh yes, cheap," she pressed?

"Marty," he said giving her a look. 

"Oh I see, Jesse's not going to be an easy fuck so why expend the effort right?"

Gage had opened his mouth at the same time he heard a gasp behind him. 

Her eyes widened even as they grew moist with tears she struggled to keep at bay. "I-I should be going, good night." With that she grabbed her purse from the kitchen counter, running to the front door as though the hounds of hell were nipping at her heels. 

She had driven two blocks before pulling over to have a good cry. He was hers for all of five minutes and then she woke up. She wished the kiss had been a dream then it wouldn't matter and everything would go back to the way it was. Why couldn't she have just stayed away? He didn't need her help and obviously didn't want her, so why did she feel the need to push herself onto others, when it was clear to them if not to her that her efforts were foolish. An active imagination gone awry to believe that anyone would need her, resting her head on the steering wheel, she continued to weep bitterly. She remained there for the longest before eventually heading back to her apartment, stopping along the way for some fast food. She hadn't eaten all day and was starving. 

She wondered like most women as she accepted the bag of artery clogging food if her weight played any part. He was used to dating waifs and all other versions pertaining to that description. 

A few more tears fell as she thought about her other flaws that may or may not have also contributed to his second thoughts. Taking her bag of fast food she rubbed her eyes as she slowly made her way to the front door of her apartment. 

"Where have you been I've been worried sick?"

Marty and Gage were standing next to the front door, her face full of concern his filled with worry.

Lowering her eyes she held up the fast food she had gotten.

"Unless there was only one employee working the whole damn thing that only accounts for, what, ten minutes at the most?" Gage was angry and on edge, he had begun to think the worst after the first half-hour. 

Opening the front door she led the way into her apartment feeling sad and off kilter, not wanting to deal with this at all. She just wanted to eat her dinner and go to bed. "I'm sorry guys I didn't expect you to come here."

Gage could see how red and wet her eyes were not to mention the tear streaks on her face. 

Marty grabbed her in a hug, "Yeah right like we were just gonna let you run off like that. Not after what he did and I said. We need to talk about this."

Jesse shook her head, "No, we really don't. I just want to eat and go to bed. I bet you and Gage have talked enough for the both of us and he's still at the same impasse he was before. Am I right?"

Pursing her lips Marty was unable to look Jesse in the eye.

Her cousin on the other hand sat there on the sofa blushing. 

"There is no reason you or he could come up with that would make me feel any better tonight, so let's just let sleeping dogs lie, please Marty.

Releasing a sigh, she turned putting her hand on Jesse's shoulder, "Then at least let me apologize for what I said in the kitchen. I was just so pissed at Gage for being stupid and not wanting to follow through that I said some awful things. You know I don't believe anything I said, right?"

"I know you don't." Jesse took a deep breath wishing she had as much faith in herself as Marty seemed to have in her.

He had gotten up and moved to stand next to Marty. "I don't believe them either."

"Thanks Gage." 

It wasn't what she said, but how she said it that let him know she didn't believe him and it hurt more than he wanted to admit.

They both left a short time later.

Although she appreciated their concern she wished they hadn't come at all. It was obvious she had been crying, which was humiliating in and of itself without adding the unintended consequence of looking as though she wanted his pity. No woman would ever want to guilt a man into dating that was just pathetic. Sitting on her sofa she had another good cry before drifting off. 

"You are aware we just kicked the best friend we ever had to the curb right?"

Biting his lip he looked down at his hands. "Yeah, I feel awful."

Marty nodded. "Me too."

"Do you think she'll ever forgive us," he asked his stomach queasy. 

Marty slid into the driver's seat cringing. "I hope so."

Jesse hadn't been back to Marty's in three weeks. She had no real reason to go, and just didn't want to go through that awkward first visit that she knew was going to come. Instead she went to work and came straight home, back and forth, back and forth. 

Her phone rang on Thursday afternoon. 

"Hello."

"Jesse it's uh Gage."

"Hey Gage. How are you?"

"Fine. I just wanted to ask you for a favor." He paused waiting on her answer.

Biting her lip, she sighed. "Of course, what do you need, is everything alright?"

"Yeah things are great I uh, just need you to come over. Would you please come?"

"What for?"

"I wanted to show you something?"

"Uh, I guess, I should be there in fifteen, unless you need me to stop by the store."

"No, not really."

"Ok see you in a bit then."

Jesse hung up the phone feeling confused. What on earth was that about she muttered to herself. Turning to grab her purse off the counter she headed back out still in her pencil skirt, raw silk blouse and three inch heels. 

Gage was not accustomed to seeing Jesse dressed for work and was blown away instantly. She looked amazing and those heels had his pulse jumping.

"I uh, hi Jesse. Wow, you didn't have to get dressed up."He was standing there in his tiny pt shorts looking adorable. 

She shook her head with a tiny smile. "This is what I wear to work silly, now what did you need that was so important," she asked in an amused voice?

Look he said in a happy voice, indicating his chest, which still held shiny places to indicate where the burns had been. 

She looked up at him confused, "I've seen your chest numerous times."

He tilted his head with a laugh, "Never mind, I guess I'm going to have to demonstrate." Then he stepped really close to her and pulled her into his arms in a tight embrace. 

"Gage, oh my god you can hug again." Her voice was excited and high pitched as she pressed herself to him, before kissing his neck absently. 

A shiver ran down his back in response. He continued to hold her a little longer than was necessary, but he just couldn't help it. He was happy and wanted to share it with her. 

"So," she said pulling back a bit. "When did this happen?" Her hand lightly stroked his chest. 

The day before yesterday, the doctor gave me some special lotion that is supposed to help the skin return to normal or somewhere close."

"Honey that's wonderful. When do you report back for duty," she asked still standing much too close for his sanity. 

"Two more weeks and then it's back to work. God," he said shaking his head, "I've never missed my job so much."

"I know, but it's all downhill from here."

He nodded grinning while picking her up briefly to spin her around. "Gage," she squealed. 

Putting her back on her feet he led her to the kitchen. Marty did a double take. "Wow Jesse, you look amazing."

"Thanks." She shrugged not understanding what all the fuss was about. She was dressed for work and that required looking polished. 

"So cuz what's for dinner?" He grinned then turned to Jesse, "You're staying right to help me celebrate?"

Jesse sighed seeing the gleam in his eyes knowing that she just couldn't say no to him. 

"Yes Gage, I'll stay for dinner."

Again he pulled her close.

"Has he been this affectionate with you too," she asked turning to Marty, still locked in his arms?"

Marty laughed. "He's making up for lost time."

"I see that," she giggled.

Even though Jesse knew it wasn't sexual and that he didn't want more, it still felt good that he had chosen to share this mile stone with her. After all three months was an excessively long time to be incapacitated for any reason. Eventually though he did let go. 

She leaned against the cabinet talking to Marty, while snacking on bits of raw veggies that didn't make it from the cutting board into the pot.

"So you've been seeing who now?"

"Dane from accounting. He's well, how to put this, delicious."

Jesse snorted. "Hmm and are you assuming this based on his looks or have you taste tested this guy?"

"Maybe a nibble," Marty said with a blush.

"Wow, ok, and?"

Grinning like a chessire cat she just made a 'mmmmm' sound. 

Giggling uncontrollably, Jesse's face turned red. "So uh," giggle, "what's next in your play book?"

Marty sighed, "I'd love to see him naked, and then who knows where that might lead to?"

Gage sat listening in fascination, unable to stop himself from commenting. "Unless he's dead, sex would be the next logical conclusion."

"Ha," Marty said smugly. "I know for a fact Jesse's seen you naked plenty of times."

Looking away with a blush he sighed, "I was too crispy and besides, Jesse is a lady." Sticking out his tongue at his cousin he smiled happy to have countered her comment.

Looking bemused, Jesse smiled at him, "Thank you Gage." 

"And I'm not," she asked playfully, "you'd better think long and hard about that before I leave you to starve."

"Hmm. You are the most virtuous of women." 

That had Jesse burst out laughing.

Marty smirked at her friend, "Something to say?"

"A bit overmuch, don't you think?"

"Maybe a touch, but no more than a touch," Marty offered with a mischievous grin.

Their relationship had been somewhat repaired that night. Each slipping back into their friendship comfortably, well maybe not so much for Gage as his body was reacting to hers on so many levels he thought he would go insane. His suggestion for Marty to throw a dinner party seemed the perfect solution to his troubles. He wanted and needed a bit of relief from a well used female who could play the game and not be hurt. With that in mind he waited and as predicted a few girls came including Jesse as well as a couple of guys from his unit. But unlike all the times before, he was no longer the center of attention. His buddies, which had escaped the fire were treated like kings while the women walked a wide birth around him. He didn't think he looked that bad. Sure he had a scar on his cheek and yeah the skin was a bit shiny in places, but the other side was perfectly nice and Marty had said the scar made him look dashing, and heroic maybe a little dangerous like a pirate, either way it was a good thing right?

He went through the motions looking a bit lost and eventually stepped into his room for some privacy. 

Now it was plain to Jesse if no one else that something was very wrong with Gage. He wasn't acting like himself, if anything he seemed insecure. When she saw him leave the patio she didn't think much of it, but when he failed to return ten minutes later that's when she got worried. At first she thought that maybe he was with one of the women here but they were all present and accounted for. With a sigh of relief she opened his bedroom door to see him head down tears in his eyes. 

Coming in on silent feet she closed the door and locked it. That's when he realized he wasn't alone and stiffened, while wiping at his eyes ineffectually.

"What," he asked gruffly feeling humiliated?

"I missed you out there. You ok?"

Shaking his head he shrugged.

"Aw honey, it's ok." Taking a seat she pulled him into her arms. "None of them are worth the pain you're feeling."

He froze not realizing that she understood his sadness. 

"Gage, I care about you and I'm not blind. I've seen how they look at you now compared to how they used to. Some women can only see what's staring them right in the face and while at times that is pleasant and fun, it's not lasting, it can't be. When beauty fades the heart and mind must be engaged in order for anything worth having to survive. Those girls out there, who are playing at being women are all about now, short term and will eventually end up alone because of it. You are having to learn your lesson the hard way. I've always believed you were deeper than your looks, and now you need to see that as well or you'll never heal from this."

Hugging her to him he released a sigh, "I'm glad I know you." 

He had said it with such warmth and kindness, she almost broke into tears.

Knowing that they wouldn't be able to leave the room unless she added some levity to the moment she pulled back. Looked him in the eyes then leaned in for a kiss. Pulling back again she grinned, "I'd do you." 

Startled he looked at her again seeing the laughter in her eyes. 

Coming to her feet holding out her hand she grinned. "Come on stud, people will think you've had your wicked way with me if we stay in here much longer." 

A nervous smile filled his face. "Would that make you uncomfortable, them thinking that?"

Eyeing him up and down like a prize stud she said in a deceptively sexy tone, "I've seen you naked luv, you don't look the least bit," she paused, enjoying the way he had just stopped breathing, "uncomfortable".

He released his breath in a long low whistle. "You did that entirely too well Jesse."

Giggling she skipped out of his room even as he chased after her playfully gathering her in his arms for a real hug. 

"Thanks Jesse," he whispered quietly in her ear.

Kissing his cheek she danced away from his embrace, but not before three others saw grinning at him knowingly. 

They continued to flirt and tease, but nothing ever came of it. Marty was getting dizzy just watching them dance to the edge, never allowing themselves to fall. 

"M-marty?" She was sitting with her back against the wall knees drawn up as she sobbed into the cordless. 

"Jesse, honey are you crying?"

Jesse nodded then realized Marty couldn't see that through the phone and sniffed a sad, "Y-yes."

"What's wrong, what happened?"

"S-someone broke in, th-they took everything. I-I don't know what to do."

"I'm on my way. Stay there. Did you call the police?"

"Mmmhmm, but they just wrote out a r-report."

"On my way. Don't move."

Gage had just come out of his room. "Where you going so fast?"

"Jesses. She's really upset, her apartment was broken into," she said moving through the kitchen toward the garage even as she spoke. 

"I'm going with you." Jumping in the passenger's seat Gage fidgeted nervously wishing she would drive faster. 

The door lock was still broken and the door itself was barely closed. Gage pushed it open while rushing up the stairs to see that Jesse's furniture completely gone they'd left nothing electronic either. 

"Jesse. Baby?" 

She looked up at him her face filled with sadness. "They took everything Gage." 

He nodded even as Marty gasped, shocked to see that they had indeed taken everything. Walking back to the bedroom she realized they even took her bedroom suit. What kind of thieves were they, apparently they were well prepared. Although Jesse didn't have a lot of furniture to begin with what she did have had been good quality and the thieves obviously agreed. Damn them. 

Opening the closet she was relieved to see clothes. Grabbing a handful of them she removed the bunch from the closet and headed out to the car, popping the trunk she laid them neatly in the back. Running upstairs once more she grabbed another load. Next came the shoes and then she headed to the bathroom for her makeup and hair things. She would have Gage and his friend's comeback tomorrow with boxes to pack up the kitchen and whatever was left on the walls. 

"I'm sorry I'm acting so silly, it's just," she paused to push the tears from her face, "they took everything. I mean I'd be upset if they took the tv and stereo, but this is so much worse. I can't afford to replace everything. I doubt seriously the insurance will cover everything."

"You're not being silly, you're being practical." Taking her hands from her face he looked into her eyes. "Look at me, worrying about it won't fix it. We need to deal with facts. So, fact one, I am here to take you to my house where you will be safe and sound. Fact two, you will have the distinct pleasure of enjoying my presence all night long."

She giggled.

"And fact three when you talk to the insurance company tomorrow you will know how and when and what you can replace. Alright?"

Nodding she leaned forward kissing his cheek. "Thanks Gage." 

Gage stood up seeing Marty's determined face, "Are we ready to go?"

She nodded holding up Jesse's makeup bag. "We're good."

Taking Jesse's hands he pulled her to her feet. 

"Come on, let's get you out of here." 




Walking Wet Dream



Gage led Jesse into the house and sat her at the kitchen table while Marty poured everyone a glass of wine. 

"Now then since I'm starving and I want to be a good friend we will order pizza and get drunk."

A little smile appeared. "I love you Marty."

"Hey how about me," Gage whined?

Her eyes met his, tilting her head a bit she repeated the words, but there was so much more behind them. 

Marty was startled by what she felt and heard, the words weren't said flippantly or lightly. Blinking in surprise she stared at Jesse. 

"What?" Gage had seen the look his cousin was giving Jesse.

Marty just shook her head changing the subject. "Jesse you look frazzled, uh, why don't I run you a bath?"

"That would be great Marty. You two are the best in the world."

Ten minutes later Jesse climbed into the hot water relaxing against the porcelain. Between the heat and the wine on an empty stomach she drifted to sleep. 

She woke to the sound of Marty's voice calling her. 

"Be right out."

Marty called back, "Just do it slowly and carefully please." 

Giggling she said, "I will." 

She made it to the table without issues wearing a sleep set and fluffy robe. 

"You look much better." 

"Thanks." Jesse relaxed against her chair taking a bite of pizza. 

"Why does pizza always taste so good?" Gage looked at the girls, "No matter how much I eat it always tastes great, I never get tired of it."

"Me either," Jesse mumbled.

"Let's toast to it." Marty grabbed her glass lifting it high, "To a brilliant invention that hurts no one and brings us joy."

"Here, here," Jesse said her glass gently tapping against theirs causing a bell like sound. "This is nice thank you both, I don't know what I would have done today if you hadn't been there."

The next day she called the insurance company, and her apartment manager to have the door and locks replaced. Taking a sigh of relief she called her bank alerting them to the fact that she had been robbed and that she wasn't certain what they took but didn't want to chance it. She changed her banking accounts and passwords forwarding everything to Marty and Gage's address. 

Gage got home around six, removing his cover he came in through the kitchen. "Marty I'm home," he called out. 

Digging in the fridge he grabbed a snack realizing he hadn't heard a response. Peeking in Marty's room he saw that she was taking a nap and quietly backed out closing the door. Heading to his room on silent feet he opened the door to see Jesse standing there naked, towel drying her hair.

Gage did an about face. "Shit, sorry."

Wrapping the towel around her, face filled with blood she babbled an apology. "No it's my fault, I'm in your room. I'm covered now."

Turning back around he bit his lip nervously. "It's ok really. It's the highlight of my day." 

"So, how was the rest of it?" She was attempting to play it cool and not be so damned embarrassed. 

"Busy." Gage was watching her intently his pulse becoming more rapid with every second. 

Nodding she grinned sheepishly. Jesse was fidgeting, Gage couldn't stop staring and it was exciting. A part of her just wanted to drop the towel and jump him, but she would never do that in a million years. "I'll uh just get dressed."

"Don't do it on my account," he murmured.

Suddenly her eyes, which had lowered snapped back up to meet his own. 

He had begun unbuttoning his BDU jacket and slipped it off. Grabbing the tee shirt beneath he lifted it up and over his head. 

She bit her lip staring intently as his hands went to the top button of the bdu pants. Giving her a slight smirk he moved toward the bed where he took a seat instead and began unlacing his combat boots. Jesse sat beside him. She watched as he deftly removed one boot and then the other. 

"Jesse," he whispered with a sigh, knowing she wasn't ready for anything, leaned in kissing the top of her shoulder, "what are you doing"? 

She blinked twice before the world started spinning normally, "I uh," her face filled with color as she stood up. "Sorry." She ran out of the room and into the kitchen. She was still only in a towel having left her clothes in his room. Closing her eyes on a groan she just stood there feeling all kinds of stupid. He would never go down that road again, she knew that, so why the hell did she still get those fuzzy feelings for him. 

She was just staring into space not knowing what to think or feel when he walked in a moment later with a pair of shorts riding low on his beautiful narrow hips. She could see droplets of water falling from his hair to his shoulders. He had obviously just taken a shower, how long had she been standing there anyway? 

"Hey you ok," he asked seeing the confusion and worry in her eyes? 

She looked away again, "Yeah sorry, just day dreaming."

"About us," he asked curiously?

Without thinking she nodded, then froze glancing up nervously. 

Running a hand through her still damp strands he pulled her closer for a hug, wondering why he was so hesitant to take her to bed. "Go get dressed baby."

Nodding, she turned and left the room. 

He was still on the fence about sleeping with her two weeks later and time was not on his side. Her furniture was supposed to be delivered the next day, although she had already started sleeping on the floor of her old apartment. It wasn't the most comfortable arrangement, but worked for the most part. Thankfully her days of rolling onto her knees first thing while awkwardly getting to her feet would soon be over. 

Gage, Mark and Josh arrived early bringing food and new bar stools, while they all held a vigil for the furniture movers. They were there to rearrange furniture and of course hook up electronic devices, which in their minds was tantamount to everything else. 

"Guys, ya'll are so sweet, thanks for the bar stools I love them." 

What they bought were high backed faux leather with thick padded seats. They looked nice and felt even better. 

"We needed a place to sit while eating," Gage said shrugging. 

They each dug into their food smiling at the glow on Jesse's face. True to their word the guys were up the minute a large moving truck came in to view. 

Things moved quickly from there. Everything was unwrapped and then assembled. The sofa only required feet and cushions so they placed it where the previous one had been and got it out of the way then they moved onto the bedroom where the bed came together quite nicely, the guys made a few perverse, but harmless jokes about leaving the plastic on the mattresses before heading into the living room to assemble the entertainment center. That's where things got tricky and heated. Men in general became intense about such projects so she did what she could to stay out of the way. Putting fresh sheets and a new comforter on her bed with dozens of pillows was her first step. Adding a few personal items as decoration onto her new dresser came second along with transferring her delicates to it. 

When that was done she headed toward the living room to see Josh unwrapping all the electronics and placing them neatly in the dining area. Jesse didn't really need a dining room table and so decided to wait on purchasing one. She wanted to make sure she had enough money left over for any incidentals she may need or had forgotten. Not to mention she was toying with the idea of turning the dining room into a computer area. 

It took four hours and some cursing, but eventually Mark and Gage finished. 

"Very nice." 

They both grinned as they looked over at the electronics that had yet to be placed. Grabbing the surge protectors he shifted the entertainment center out from the wall and began organizing the wiring, cables and plugs, while Mark and Josh brought the television, dvd player and stereo system into the living room. 

They sat and discussed placement of certain electronics as well as trying to make it all function on as few remotes as possible. Once a game plan was approved they each began. This went much faster than the actual building of said unit.

By the time they were done it was seven in the afternoon. Jesse grabbed them each a soda from the fridge and watched as they collapsed on her new sofa while channel surfing. 

Ya'll are the best. She said walking through her apartment looking at everything happily. 

"Tell you what," she said dropping to her knees in front of the sofa. "How about we get dressed up tomorrow and I take you all out to dinner someplace nice, my treat?"

Their exhausted faces all held a look of surprise, but pleasure none the less. 

"So?"

"You don't have to," Josh said in a weak protest, "I didn't mind helping out today."

"You really want to take us out," Mark asked curiously?

"Yes, I do. You will all three be my date for tomorrow, I'll even pick you up around say six o'clock."

"Wow, that sounds great. I can't remember the last time a girl actually bought me a meal."

"Me either," said Gage with a grin. 

"Then it's settled." She clapped happily still kneeling on the floor in front of them. 

The next night went well, she picked up Gage first who, truth be told she didn't think could look any better and yet managed to do just that in a crisp button down shirt and jacket paired with some jeans and loafers. Then add to that the cologne and she was in heaven. 

At her next stop she picked up Josh and Mark who were looking just as wonderful. She blinked then her mind fell in the gutter, leaving her blushing before climbing out again. 

"Wow you two look wonderful. I'm going to be the envy of every girl at the restaurant." 

She took them to a steak place that was a little more upscale and as a result catered to a dressier set.

Since she had been driving no one had actually seen Jesse so when she got out she was met with a gasp, a whistle and a, "Wow you look hot."

The dress was a little black one that came to mid thigh, it wasn't skin tight or trashy though, it held the right amount of innocence and sex appeal all wrapped into one, paired with the three inch black heels. Her hair was pulled to the side and secured loosely on her shoulder with a black ribbon. Tendrils hung about her face. Tonight she had the added accent of makeup as well. Now typically her idea of makeup was a bit of powder, mascara and lip gloss. Tonight however she played up her eyes with dark shadow as her cheeks bloomed with a pale innocent pink, even as her lips shimmered with lip gloss. In short her makeup gave the same illusion as the dress. 

Gage swallowed his desire while Josh openly gawked. Mark laughed watching Gage's face knowing his thoughts since Mark was having a few of his own. Damn but she did look amazing.

Offering his elbow he said quietly, "Shall we." 

With a grin she took Mark's arm as they made their way inside. 

The hostess' jaw dropped when she saw the three men, it took her a minute to gather her composure before asking for the party's name. 

"I do believe she's beside herself just from looking at you three."

Josh smirked. Mark blushed, and Gage laughed then leaned in and whispered, "You have my permission to make her seethe with jealously." 

Looking up at him she burst out laughing. "And how would I do that."

"Hmm." He looked at Mark, "Any ideas"?

"None that won't get us kicked out of here or arrested."

Jesse's eyebrows went up even as she tried to stifle a giggle. "Really?"

"We could make her think more is going on than what is really there."

Jesse had a perma smile she was so giddy. "Hmm."

Josh nodded, "Oh we could definitely give her the wrong idea if you like?"

Jesse shrugged, "I am your date and at your mercy, do what you will with me?"

Gage's jaw nearly fell to floor. 

"This is gonna be fun," Mark said rubbing his hands together while winking at Gage. 

When the hostess was moving toward them, signaling that their table was prepared Mark was running his hands gently up and down Jesse's arms in a soothing manner. Then Josh slid beside her putting his hand on the small of her back to guide her behind the hostess. 

"Mmm, you have warm hands," Jesse said watching the hostess flinch ahead of her.

Then as she was seating them Gage took the seat next to her placing his hand on her leg. 

"Your waiter will take your order shortly." She stood staring a half-second longer than necessary when Jesse said, "Wonderful, my marines can build up quite an appetite.

The girl actually shivered then licked her lips before turning to leave.

"Wow Jesse, that poor girl will never be the same again." 

"It's nothing more than the truth, I've seen you eat," she said looking at her menu. 

Mark tilted his head in surprise. He gave Gage a silent look that said, 'Is she really that innocent'?

Gage's face said it all and left Mark without air for a moment. 

The dinner was excellent, one of the best steaks Gage had ever had. 

Josh was in awe of everything, but especially the food since his salary would never allow for such. Each bite of his steak was better than the last. "I think I'm in love."

"With who," Gage asked hesitantly?

He looked up reluctantly from his dinner to answer, "This steak. Have you ever tasted anything so wonderful?"

Mark patted his back, "I hope you two will be happy together." 

Jesse beamed. "I'm so glad you like you it." 

"Trust me Jess, your next in line after the steak for bringing me here."

"Nice to know I compare favorably," she said biting back laughter.

Mark grinned then noticed that Gage's hand never left Jesse's leg, well maybe long enough to cut his steak, but then it had returned, and she hadn't seemed to notice. 

When dinner ended and the check was paid, Gage followed her through the restaurant past the hostess who watched them longingly and out the door.

"That was so much fun guys, thank you for coming." 

"Uh Jesse, you paid for our ridiculously priced meal, we should be thanking you not the other way around."

She shrugged, "It was fun and I had a great time, so it doesn't really matter. Besides I never get to dress up and go out so it just sort of added something different to it. I really enjoyed the company and the hard work you did yesterday."

Mark wrapped his arms around her in an affectionate hug. "God you're a good person. Thank you anyway." Leaning down he lightly kissed her lips.

Gage stiffened. 

Then Josh came up and literally picked Jesse up, "Tonight was the greatest, thanks Jess." Leaning in he kissed her cheek, before setting her back down. 

"Wow If I'd have known I'd get this kind of attention I would have bought you dinner a long time ago."

Everyone laughed while climbing in the car. 

She dropped the boys off first then headed toward Gage's. "Hey Jess, why don't we just go back to your place."

Grinning she shrugged. "Ok. But all I have to drink is soda."

"That's fine," he said quietly wondering what in the hell he was doing. He was jealous of Mark and Josh touching her, that much was obvious he also wanted to thank her for tonight, but with more intensity and privacy than his friends had. 

When they got to the top of the stairs which was her living room she took a seat on the nearby bar stool. "Tonight was so great Gage, I had a lot of fun."

He placed a hand on the barstool seat while leaning forward trapping her a bit. "It was great and now I get to say thank you." 

"You don't have to you know."

"Mmmm, but I really want to," he growled.

The minute his lips touched hers, her arms came up wrapping around his neck 

His kiss was hot and heavy his hips rocking in need. Sliding her forward to the edge of the seat he stepped between her thighs pushing himself against her with each thrust of his tongue. 

Her hands slipped slowly from his neck to work the buttons on his shirt. She released a sigh when she felt his hard chest beneath. But it wasn't until she began unfastening his jeans that he let out a hiss of breath. 

When tentative fingers reached in and stroked him he whimpered. "Yes baby."

His fingers eased their way up her inner thigh even as she brought him to the edge of control. He had never touched her as intimately as he was about to and his body was sending so many signals he wanted to scream from the pleasure. 

When he reached the top and found no barrier he growled sensuously. "No panties." 

He could feel her mouth turn up in a smile as they kissed. "Never with you Gage." 

Kissing her in a frenzy his fingers deftly found the wet slit he had been wanting, sliding inside to touch her warmth. 

She screamed into his kiss at the pleasure he was giving her, if her bucking hips were any indication. 

Soon her entire body was shaking while she chanted his name, "Gage, oh my Gage. I-I uh Gggggaaaaggeee." A flood of wetness followed her final scream before he picked her up and carried her limp body to the bedroom. Pulling back the comforter and sheets he laid her down losing contact briefly to take off his clothes before starting on hers. Her dress was off in seconds and he was laying directly on top of her kissing and touching once again. When her legs opened at his touch he knew she was ready. He had been working her up to where she was a moment before while attempting to hold himself back. 

His tongue lapped at her breast as his fingers began their rhythm once more. She was panting and writhing with every touch until at last she felt him withdraw, then come back, only this time it wasn't his fingers. She opened her eyes and looked down to see him guiding himself into her very wet and throbbing interior. She nearly came from that sight alone, but it was his eyes meeting hers and then that sexy smile as he pushed into her that set her off again. 

"That's it baby, cum for me," he whispered as she pulled his mouth to hers in another mind blowing kiss. 

He slid further and further in as her panting grew labored. Pulling back from the kiss he could tell that this part was difficult for her. Lying atop of her he held still letting her get used to his size. Kissing her nose, cheeks and eyelids he whispered, "You ok baby?"

Slowly her eyes fluttered open, filled with worry and self doubt. "A-are y-y-y-ou."

Gage could see her fear and wanted to douse it immediately, hell he'd even made her stutter. "Ah precious, you feel so wonderful to me. I could stay inside you forever."

She blinked in surprise as he rocked his hips feeling the friction of him on the inside. 

He was so close just a few more strokes and he would be gone, but not without her she needed to cum with him inside then everything would be perfect, so with that in mind he lowered himself touching her body from head to toe with his own. Looking into her eyes he slid his right hand down low grazing her hip bones before touching that place that would send her over the edge for a third and final time. 

Her pupils dilated as he stroked her there teasing before he felt her body begin to tense and shake, "G-gggggaaaageeee!"

He barely captured his name in the kiss before bucking his hips in a frenzy that left him groaning her name as well. 

She could feel him pulse inside as well as the wetness that soon followed she shivered with it holding him tightly when he collapsed on her, sweaty and exhausted. They were both panting, their heartbeats in time.

Jesse had heard and read in her favorite magazines about what men like or don't like post coital and the do's and don'ts of such. So she knew better than to ask if he liked it or show her insecurities off in such an obvious manner. She also knew better than to talk unless it was somehow sexy or a compliment to his body. Unfortunately she wasn't savvy enough to come up with something that wouldn't sound forced, especially since she was reeling with the knowledge that this was her first time, well technically it was her second, but this was by far the best and it had been so perfect. Lying there she stroked his hair as he dozed off to sleep. Eventually he shifted off of her and that's when she decided that a shower was in order. She felt slippery and cold. 




Walking Wet Dream



Quietly she made her way from the bedroom to the bathroom without waking him. 

Standing beneath the shower she literally began to cry from happiness. Everything had been so wonderful she just couldn't believe that he had wanted her and that it could be that great. A part of her wanted more. Obviously he had awakened something in her because she couldn't wait until a next time. 

Climbing out of the shower she wrapped a towel around herself and headed into the living room. Sitting there she just stared at the blank tv replaying everything they had done getting more and more turned on. Wanting to try everything she had read in those silly magazines since puberty. 

She wondered if she was now a slut. Would she have felt the same if she had been with any other man. Shaking her head she didn't think so. 

A half hour later Gage's eyes opened he looked about curiously before everything came rushing back. Jesse where was Jesse? He really hoped she wasn't upset or worried about what they did. She was such an innocent and tenderhearted. He needed to find her and make sure. Walking out of the bedroom he saw her sitting on the sofa. Rubbing his eyes he walked up to her before kneeling down next to the sofa. "Hey baby," he said quietly still trying to wake up. "You ok?"

He was kneeling beside her naked, she could see all of him wanting nothing more than to sit and stare for as long as he'd let her, well maybe there'd be some touching.

Her smile was bright and somewhat mischievous. "Mmhmm. Are you?"

"Sleepy, but good." Leaning in he gave her a sweet kiss finishing it with a flick of his tongue. 

Moaning in response she shivered. Moving to the floor in front of him she came up on her knees wrapping her arms around him before kissing him for all she was worth.

She could feel the laughter in his chest. "What?"

His mega watt smile shone bright as he cocked an eyebrow, "Something I can do for you Jesse?"

Eyes lowering nervously she bit her lip then shook her head. 

Leaning in, he reigned soft kisses along her cheek and jaw working his way down her throat. His hands started moving leisurely on her knees, inching up higher and higher before being stopped by the towel. 

Pulling back he looked into her eyes so filled with passion he didn't think she could actually focus on him or anything else. Kissing her pert nose he then slowly began to ease the towel off of her. She shivered feeling the air and his eyes on her. He hadn't said or done anything just stared. 

When her eyes followed his it was to see him staring at her stomach, suddenly she tensed grabbing her towel, "Sorry, I uh forgot."

There was scarring and a shiny patch that covered a portion of her stomach and small section of her waist. 

"You were burned?" He touched the skin with gentle fingers. 

She sighed holding the towel up protectively. "I fell onto a campfire, when I was sixteen."

"Damn, I'm sorry." 

She shrugged. "It's alright I just forgot is all."

He frowned tilting his head, "You forgot you were burned."

Shaking her head with a grin she said, "Uh no, I meant that I forgot I was naked, and you would see."

"Not to put too fine a point on it, but since I'm your burnt twin why would it matter?"

Tilting her head to the side she frowned, "Boys are supposed to have scars and things like that, but girls aren't it's a turn off."

Releasing a sigh he said, "Now you listen to me Miss Jesse McAlister. I'm not a boy, I'm a man." Taking her hand in his he led it to his growing member. "And you are a woman," his hand came to rest on her breast. And everything about you turns me on especially right now. She gasped and squeezed him a bit making him suck in a sharp breath. 

"It really doesn't bother you," she asked sounding surprised?

"I see I'm going to have to convince you." 

She didn't understand until he took her in his arms lowering her to the carpeted floor kissing a path along her body. Some places he lingered longer than others, sucking and nipping, but he didn't falter or rush the ruined flesh. He sucked and lapped and tasted every inch before moving to more sensitive areas, making her scream in pleasure when all was said and done.

She lay panting looking up at him in wonder from the living room floor. He had his head propped up laying on his side pressed close while smiling down at her. 

"Why exactly are you single, with skills like that?" The look on Jesse's face said she was entirely serious. 

"Jesse, I don't sleep around," he said quietly. 

"Then what happened, why aren't you married or in a steady relationship with your first time if not the second?"

"You really want to take a walk down sexual history lane?" 

"Well, uh yeah. I mean why would anyone not want to be with you?"

Rolling onto his stomach he rested on his forearms looking over at her. "My first was, you guessed it a cougar as you and Marty so charmingly put it. He shrugged. My second wasn't that great. It was her first time and I wasn't exactly gentle. She moved away with her family. You sure you want to know about this stuff?"

"Why wouldn't I?" 

He shrugged taking a breath. "My third girlfriend was using me to make her boyfriend jealous."

"Really, she chose someone else over you?"

A blush filled his cheeks, "Yeah I know I was shocked too. The fourth I broke up with." He had used a cold curt tone, one she didn't recognize.

Her eyes met his, warmth and understanding within their depths. "Why? Or don't I need to know."

"She was scary jealous and tried to keep me away from all other females including Marty. I didn't find out until it was too late."

"What do you mean too late?"

Gage frowned, angry at himself for saying anything. 

Jesse laid her hand on his, "Hey I'm sorry, if its private keep it. I don't mind."

Nodding he released a sigh. "I've been careful ever since that one. She is the reason I don't get involved and haven't dated long term. I see how jealous women get and it worries me, I-I don't know how to explain it."

"You mean like Erica."

His smile widened when he realized that Jesse did understand, "Yes exactly, I didn't like that especially when she turned that anger on you I just wanted to smack the crap out of her."

Jesse laughed, "I'm glad you didn't, but at the same time I appreciate the thought. So, why me?"

"Because you're different. You don't ignore Marty whenever I'm in the room and you don't hit on me, you're just you. You're also the only person who offered to give me a sponge bath," he said only half joking. 

"Well, you needed one," she countered.

"Wow that's so not nice." Gage said grinning.

"The truth hurts." 

Leaning down he pressed his lips to hers to keep her from speaking. "Mmm that's better."

He started to lift himself up before she placed a hand on his cheek, "More."

"Not on this hard floor, not when there's a soft bed less than ten feet away."

Coming to his feet he pulled her up wrapping his arms around her from behind.

Then they made love one more time before collapsing into a peaceful night's sleep together. 

The next morning they woke up slightly confused before bounding out of bed. Neither had set the alarm and it was already seven am. 

"I'm sorry Jesse please don't take this wrong, but if I don't get to work my staff sergeant's going to chew my ass out."

"Shh I'm fine not like I don't have to be at work in," she checked her bedside table, "good grief twenty five minutes."

Both scrambled to get dressed, Jesse in her work clothes and Gage in his evening ones. Rushing out of the apartment at a dead run he realized that he didn't have his car. Jesse rushed out with keys in hand to see him standing at her car with his head hung in shame. 

"I forgot, oh lord Gage come on, let me take you home." She drove somewhere between the speed limit and way too fast, but made it there in one piece. Gage hurried to the house to change into his BDU's. 

The day seemed to mimic the morning in that rushed pace and didn't slow down, each was of course exhausted from the night before and the day cruelly taunted them taking what reserves they did have and rendering them useless. 

When Gage finally got home that night it was after eight. 

Marty was sitting at the table eating fried rice when he came dragging in. "Are you ok?"

He nodded taking a seat across from her. "Just tired."

"Would you like some of this?" She showed him the take out box filled with beef and broccoli. 

"Mmhmm." 

Sliding it across the table to him along with the fork she'd been using he finished it up for her. 

"Thanks Marty. I'm going to shower and sleep. Good night."

She grinned at his back shaking her head. "Good night."

He didn't call the first day, well if it were anything like hers she couldn't blame him. But when he didn't call the second or third she began to wonder if he had decided that he couldn't be in a relationship with her either. Maybe it was just a one night stand and that's all it meant or was supposed to mean. She really didn't know. Shaking her head she sighed. The week drug by slowly, but eventually Friday rolled around along with a phone call from Marty. 

"Hey Jesse I'm having a dinner party tonight be here around seven-ish alright."

"Yeah sounds great." 

When Jesse got home she changed into her jeans and a cute see through blouse with a camisole beneath. Pulling her hair into a pony tail she headed to Marty's. 

Mark and Josh were thrilled to see her and of course Marty was as well. They all chatted in the kitchen while Marty finished making the last bit of bread for their meal. 

She hadn't seen Gage since she arrived and found it kind of odd, but decided not to ask. Sure it sounded stupid as if they were playing games, but there was just no sense in pining. She was a good friend and if that is all he wanted from her then she would just have to deal with it. 

Firming up her resolve she finally saw him, out on the patio with some woman she'd never seen before they were obviously lost in conversation, but he looked relaxed and content so she didn't go out there. There was little to be gained by it except maybe annoying him with the interruption. 

Everyone mixed and chatted while Jesse spoke with just about every person there, she still hadn't spoken to him. She saw the woman he was talking to come in for a refill, she was very pretty and as she turned she smiled at Jesse. It wasn't one of those fake or cat and mouse smiles, just an honest one. Jesse smiled back and continued her conversation with Marty and Josh. 

Gage eventually made his way through the kitchen. Jesse smiled and waved as he walked by. He waved back, but kept going to his bedroom. Then he passed through again without really acknowledging anyone. She looked on thoughtful, but tried not to dwell on it overly much. There was after all little point in it, especially if she was what she thought she was. 

By eleven she decided to call it a night and kissed Marty's cheek. I'm dead on my feet I'll see you guys later. 

"Oh, I think Gage wanted you he's out on the patio," Marty said with a nod in that direction.

He was sitting out there with that pretty lady and although she felt funny about it, she was told to find him. Clearing her throat she peeked outside the patio door and said, "Hi. Sorry to interrupt, Marty mentioned something about you needing me."

Gage could see her attempt to hide the confusion. She didn't know what was going on and he felt bad about it. He just wasn't ready to tell anyone he was sleeping with her and the only way they wouldn't know was by him staying away from her. The only problem was he hadn't told her what he wanted or spoken to her since...his face went white when he realized how long it had been since they'd spoken. 

"Sorry Carrie, I need to talk to Jesse." Leaning down he kissed her cheek. "it was great catching up."

"I've had a great time tonight. Don't be a stranger," she said quietly before leaving the patio. 

And then they were alone. "It's getting late Gage, I was just about to head home."

He nodded leaning in to give Jesse a deep and entirely lovely kiss. 

She melted in his arms, "Mmm that's so nice."

"Jesse I'm sorry I didn't call. It's been a while and I'm an idiot."

Although Jesse nodded she still felt confused. "Was your week as hectic as mine?"

"Yeah," he said not elaborating, nuzzling her neck instead. His hands were stroking her making her feel wanton. 

Her breath hitched with emotion. "Gage?"

"Hmmm?"

"W-we have to stop."

He growled his dissent.

"Gage someone's going to see and if-if we don't stop I'm not going to care how much they see."

He stopped, pulling back from her, "Really?"

Rolling her eyes she answered. "At the risk of stroking your ego even further, yes I really want you."

Playing with the snap on her jeans he eventually unfastened them then slowly lowered the zipper. "Gage, what are you..." a gasp filled the air as his hand slipped inside.

She had a death grip on his shoulders.

"Stay with me tonight. Please Jesse."

She nodded, her hips jerking back and forth with his touch. 

He felt her stiffen and swallowed her scream in a blinding kiss. 

She trembled for a minute before collapsing against him. He kissed the top of her head while securing her jeans. 

Moving toward the patio bench he pulled her onto his lap. 

Her body took a while to calm as did his, but eventually both felt they could return to the kitchen without their desires being on display. 

Marty took one look at her flushed friend and knew something was different. Jesse took a seat at the table in the kitchen across from Mark, while Gage went to the fridge to grab a water. It was however what he did when he returned to the table that alerted Marty to the new situation. 

Gage not only sat beside her, but his hand rested on her thigh while his fingers made small gentle motions along the inside. 

Mark grinned seeing the sleepy eyes change from innocent to something a lot more worldly. A sly grin filled his face when he glanced at Gage who happened to be looking at Jesse. 

The look he was giving her was more than a little heated and extremely possessive.

Marty gasped then clapped a hand over her mouth when he looked up. Blushing he looked away only to catch the smirk Mark was giving him. 

Jesse's eyes were closed, enjoying the feel of his warm hand on her. Leaning down Gage whispered, "Go lay down baby, I'll be there in a bit."

Nodding she finally opened her eyes. Startled to see the smile Mark was giving her across the table. 

Turning toward Marty she blushed saying, "I'm a little tired."

She nodded grinning. 

The minute Jesse left the room Mark said, "Damn you work fast, I know you two weren't sleeping together last weekend."

Marty gasped. 

"Don't make me hit you O'Connor." Gage's face had become very very hard.

"Sorry," he said putting his hands up in surrender. "I adore Jesse you know that, but the look in a woman's eyes changes when she's been satisfied, and Jesse has that look my friend. Now then," coming to his feet grinning at Marty he said, "I think it's time for bed. Good night Marty," kissing her cheek he turned back toward Gage, "as for you, you'd best treat our little innocent right or I'll kick your ass." And with that he and Josh were out the door leaving just him and Marty alone in the kitchen.

Marty bit her lip. "Is what Mark said true?"

Gage wanted to wring O'Connors neck. "Um yeah."

Suddenly his cousin jumped from her place and threw her arms around Gage. "I'm glad."

"I see that, but I've dated before and you've never given me a reaction quite like this."

"She cares about you, really cares, not just superficial stuff either." Tears were in Marty's eyes when she pulled back from her hug. 

"Thanks Marty, I'm gonna head to bed now," he said feeling somewhat embarrassed and nervous. 

"Good night." 

Groaning about the fact that everyone now knew he and Jesse were sleeping together he quietly opened the bedroom door shrugging completely out of his clothes while climbing in next to her. She instinctively moved closer to his warmth allowing him to kiss and cuddle her awake. 

"I want to be inside you baby." 

"Mmmm, me too."

Gently he pushed into her welcoming warmth making love to her slowly exchanging soft kisses and touches. It wasn't hurried or rushed like last weekend, but something much sweeter. 

They kissed, touched and petted one another for a half-hour before he shouted his release. 

Covered in a sheen of perspiration they lay face to face panting, exchanging a few more kisses before drifting to sleep. 

Jesse woke up in Gage's arms completely surrounded by his warm hard body. Looking up she could see that he was still asleep although that monster lying against her leg obviously hadn't gotten the memo. She shifted into a position where she could just look at it. It was quite large and kind of red. Seeing a bit of wetness seep from the tip she tentatively moved her finger to catch it and bring it to her lips. Shrugging a bit she decided to take Cosmopolitan's advice and go for it. Shifting lower on the bed she positioned herself onto her stomach, since Gage was sleeping on his side this seemed the ideal position. 

Taking him in her hand she adjusted its position before lowering her mouth on top of it. 

Gage moaned, his hand finding the back of her head. "Good morning to you too Jesse," he said on a groan as her tongue flicked his base, leaving a saliva trail as she pulled off of him long enough to offer a slightly embarrassed smile.

"Is this ok," her eyes were adorably worried. 

"Better than ok." 

She nodded about to return to her task when he shifted positions bringing her to her hands and knees While he stood by the side of the bed. Running his tongue along her spine, she squirmed arching her back in need. He felt how wet she was just from the things she had done to him. Slipping inside her he immediately began a fast rhythm that had her begging for his touch. His hand reached around to tease her, making her explode and scream his name into the bed. Her orgasm set off his own and before he knew it she was curled up on her side trying to recapture her breath. 

"I feel like I just ran a marathon," she panted praying her heart would eventually slow down. 

Me too he said standing there unable to touch her for fear of not wanting or being able to stop with just a touch. Slipping on his shorts he told her he was headed for the shower. 

She sighed looking up at the ceiling with an expression of bliss. When he came back in the room she took his towel wrapping it around herself before heading to the shower. 

Gage was in the kitchen drinking a cup of coffee when Jesse wandered into the kitchen a sheepish expression on her face. 

Marty was leaning against the oven waiting on the blueberry muffins to finish cooking. She grinned at Jesse, "Good morning sunshine." 

Jesse blushed. "Hi."

"Did you want some coffee?"

With a nod Jesse got up to get a mug. "I can't seem to wake up this morning?"

Marty chuckled, but kept her comments to herself. "I'm making blueberry muffins." 

"Thanks they're my favorite."

"Really, well I'm glad. Give them another five and they should be done."

The silence was awkward, really awkward, Gage decided to go check his email leaving the girls alone in the kitchen. 

A second later he heard laughter. Groaning in defeat he knew that soon Marty was going to know just as much about Jesse as he did.

"Oh my God Marty, you never told me sex was that good."

Laughing out loud she leaned against the kitchen counter, "It's one of those 'you have to be there' things no one can really describe it."

"Tell me about it. 10 years of stories in Cosmopolitan barely put a dent into everything Gage has taught me in two nights." Jesse's eyes were round her smile big.