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Because I Still Love You Ch. 01

By: creativetalent



DISCLAIMER: All the characters in this story are fictitious; any resemblance to any person dead or alive is completely coincidental.

This is a long story which involves all the emotions of love and romance. If you are looking for a quick, raunchy and steamy number, I am sorry to say, this isn't the one.

***

'Is this seat taken?' asked a sweet voice, forcing Ken to look up. A 5'5'' tall, cute girl stood before him, with a dimpled smile.

'N ... No ... You ... can have it,' stammered Ken and tried to concentrate on his notes.

The girl walked past him and sat beside him. Ken breathed in her perfume and wondered why he hadn't seen her in the class, before.

'Hi! I am Lea Taylor,' said the girl, extending her perfectly manicured hand and looked at him inquisitively with sparkling blue eyes.

'Hi! Ken Harper. Are you new to the class?' he asked as he shook her hand.

'Yes, you can say so. I am from Kansas,' said Lea as she withdrew her hand and looked around the class. 'I came down to Texas yesterday. I don't have any friends here,' she said wryly.

'I am from Chicago. If you don't mind, I can introduce you to my gang of friends.'

'That would be wonderful,' squealed Lea and then smiled apologetically. 'I am sorry. It's just that I don't want to be a pain in the ass, Ken. It's alright. I can ...'

'No, it's not alright. I cannot see a girl in distress,' admitted Ken cheekily.

Before Lea could question him further, the class began. Quite contrary to her expectations, Ken's friends were quite friendly and went out of their way to make sure that she was comfortable.

'Guys, I think I should head back to my room. It's late,' said Lea as she gathered her things and stood up.

'Shall I walk you?' asked Ken as he looked at Lea.

'It's alright, Ken. I can manage.'

'Don't worry; Lea. Ken is protective of all the girls in the gang. You can trust him,' said a red-haired brunette, whom Lea remembered being introduced as Rebecca.

'Ok,' said Lea meekly and allowed Ken to escort her out of the university café.

'Do you stay alone?' asked Ken as they stood at the other end of the street, waiting for the lights to change.

'No, I stay with my friend. Brenda works as a stenographer in a law firm. We share an apartment,' said Lea.

The lights changed and Ken caught Lea's hand, making sure that she kept up to his pace. Once they crossed the street, he let go of her hand.

'Do you have any relatives over here?' asked Ken as he rubbed his palms together to ward off the chill.

'No,' said Lea and looked at Ken. 'My parents got divorced when I was 10. And since then I have been alone.'

Ken looked at Lea who seemed to be a little distressed. Her sparkling blue eyes suddenly lost their color and it pained him to see her upset. 'Hey, I am sorry,' whispered Ken and looked at her apologetically, 'I didn't mean to pry.'

'It's alright. It doesn't hurt anymore,' said Lea, with a small smile and pointed to a nearby building. 'That's where I stay.'

'Oh! That's good. Because the third building to the left is where I stay.'

'Hmm... So, Mr. Neighbor, this is it I guess. I hope to see you tomorrow.'

'By the way Lea, here are the notes for the classes that you missed,' said Ken as he handed her the notebooks.

'Thanks a lot, Ken. I mean it,' said Lea as gave him a sweet little smile.

'Lea,' said Ken and caught her hand, 'I think you should have my number. It may be come in handy,' he said and before Lea could protest, Ken scribbled his number on her palm. 'Don't wash your hands before writing down my number.'

'Thanks,' said Lea and gave him a small wave as she walked towards her home.

***

'I hope you are not disappointed after you get to see your grades,' said Lea as they walked towards the café.

'Lea, the past week has been an absolute pleasure only because of you. You are the best partner any student can ever get. And even if the grades are low, which won't happen, thanks to your mesmerizing presentation skills, I will not be disappointed.'

'Thank you, Ken. You have been a wonderful partner. I owe it to you,' said Lea as she looped her hand through Ken's arm.

'Coffee?' asked Ken as they sat on the nearest table.

'Yes, along with lots of cookies. I am damn hungry,' said Lea as she gave Ken a puppy look.

'Sure. I will be right back,' said Ken and walked towards the counter.

Lea looked at Ken as he talked with the guy at the café counter. She wondered what she would have done if she hadn't met Ken. She would have been as happy as she was today? No said her inner voice as Ken smiled at her. Within a few weeks, Ken was her confidant, her closest friend and most importantly, a person whom she could trust. They had started sharing their home work and eventually, they were among the few students who managed to submit their assignments on time. The professors were impressed with the duo and soon, they started topping the examinations.

***

'Why would I want your piece of shit?'

'Because she reminds me of you, bitch.'

'Don't you use that tone with me. She is yours and it was you who wanted a child.'

The voices kept growing louder and louder ... "They don't want you" said her inner voice as she heard the quarrel between her parents. A chill sent into her body and she trembled as the voices kept on increasing. She heard someone sob and then she realized that she was the one sobbing. The door to her room opened and ...

Lea woke up with a start and glanced at the clock on the nightstand. It read 12:25 A. M. She fiercely wiped at the tears that ran over her cheeks. Her entire body was cold and she was sweating like a pig. Was she dreaming? Oh God! Not again, she thought as she remembered the vivid and horrific nightmares. She pulled the covers closer around her body and sank into the pillow. Ken ... Was he asleep wondered Lea looking at the phone nearby. She dialed his number and waited for Ken to pick up.

'Hello,' said a voice groggily. 

'Ken?' whispered Lea.

'Lea? Is that you?' asked Ken as he sat up on the bed and flipped on the light. 

'I am sorry. I didn't mean to disturb you ... It's just that ...'

'You didn't disturb me. What happened?' asked Ken as he glanced at the bedside clock.

'Can you come over?' asked Lea as she tried to stop the tears that welled up in her eyes.

'Are you alright?' asked Ken as he drew back the covers and climbed out of his bed.

'I ... I am fine.' said Lea and hoped that her voice didn't betray her.

'I will be there in 5 minutes,' said Ken as he tugged on a T-shirt and before Lea could respond, he clicked the phone shut.

She sighed and curled further into the covers. Just then the doorbell rang and she dragged herself out of the bed. She flicked on the light in the living room and walked to the door and opened it.

'Good morning,' said Ken as he stood before her, his hands in the pocket of his jeans.

One look at her grief-stricken face and he knew that things weren't as good as they should be. Lea left the door open and walked into the living room and settled on the couch. Ken walked inside and closed the door, before shrugging out of his jacket. Lea was fidgeting with the hem of her night shirt. Ken sensed that Lea was scared and she looked like she had been crying. God only knows what troubles this sweet little girl has endured though Ken as he settled down beside her.

'Lea, look at me,' Ken said softly and took her hands into his. Her hands were cold and he tried to warm them up. 'Are you cold?'

Lea only shook her head and withdrew her hands from him. 'I am sorry to disturb you ...'

'No, Lea. You didn't disturb me,' said Ken and raised Lea's chin forcing her to look into his eyes, 'What's the matter, cutie pie?'

Lea flinched on hearing the endearment. It was a sharp contrast to her past. Nobody had called her anything other than "Lea". Ken's concerned voice and the protective way in which he treated her, made her realize that Ken was the only person who treated her with utmost case and respect. 

'Lea ...,' whispered Ken as he ran a finger across her jaw, 'Are you fine?'

'Sorry, I got carried away. I had a nightmare ... I ...,' her voice faltered and Ken whispered, 'come here.'

Before Lea could process what was happening, Ken sat back on the couch and lifted her into his lap. Her head was tucked under his chin and he asked, 'Do you often have the nightmares?'

Lea only nodded her head and held Ken closer, absorbing his heat. He placed a small kiss on her forehead and said, 'Do you want to tell me about these nightmares?'

Lea twined her fingers into his and took a deep breath. 'My parents got divorced when I was 10.' Ken ran his hands over her arms and waited for Lea to continue. 

'You already know this ... They used to fight every night after I went to sleep,' she said and held him closer. Ken grabbed a throw from the back of one of the chairs. He spread the cover over them and propped his legs up on the coffee table and leaned back and stroked her back.

'They never bothered to check on me. They assumed that I was sleeping but I was wide awake. They fought over almost everything and anything. And their favorite topic was me. You must be thinking that they fought about my custody. But no, they fought about why they wouldn't want me. My father used to call my mother a bitch and he never wanted me because I reminded him of her.'

Lea shuddered as she remembered the harsh words and Ken turned her face towards him and kissed her forehead, 'I am sorry for all that you had to go through.'

Lea didn't seem to hear and continued, 'Mom wanted to get rid of me because she never wanted any children. They sent me to a boarding school in Kansas. They paid the fees and sent me some dollars every month. The girls in school never tried to befriend me. They were more interested in knowing my past and making fun of me. I got through school and high school and at the age of 22, I still can't seem to forget the past ...,' trailed off Lea as the tears spilled over her cheeks. 

Ken repositioned her so that he could look at her. He gently wiped the tears and kissed her cheek, trying to ease her pain. 

'Lea,' said Ken softly and raised her chin so that she could look into his eyes, 'you are the most amazing girl that I know. I know that I can't undo the past. I wish I could have been there when you needed someone the most. But there isn't a single thing that I could about it.'

Lea tried to speak but Ken placed a finger on her lips and silenced her. 'Now that I am here, I promise to you that I will never let you go. Your parents lost a wonderful daughter by letting you go. You deserved better, Lea.'

Lea curled further into him and pressed into his chest. Ken looped his hands around her waist and said, 'I know that it might be painful for you to rehash the past. I promise that from now on you won't have to fight the demons of the past alone. I am here and I will always be there.' He stroked her hair and whispered, 'Thanks for trusting me.'

'I trust you more than I trust myself, Ken. You are my only best friend till date and you always will be,' confessed Lea and laid her head on his shoulder. 'Will you hold me?'

'Yes, if that is what you want ...,' said Ken and held her close.

'I like you, Ken. Like you a lot,' sighed Lea and drifted off to sleep.

'Good night, sweetie,' whispered Ken and brushed his lips on her forehead.

Ken drew back the strands of hair that fell on her face. He thought about everything Lea had told him. The cute girl who sat beside him every day had to go through such a horrid childhood, made his gut clench. He knew that Lea didn't deserve such treatment. It pained him when he imagined her all alone, trying to fight her own battles. But his respect for her also grew tenfold. He held her hand and kissed it, repeating the promise that he wouldn't leave her alone, come what may. The beautiful girl sleeping in his arms was the best thing that had happened to him. And he would never allow anything or any damn person to hurt his Lea. 

His Lea... He liked the sound of that - his Lea in his arms, safe and away from all the hurt. I love you whispered Ken. He loved her? The admission was enough to make him shudder. But the past few months had been the best days of his life. The boring lectures were tolerable only because of the sweet girl who sat beside him. The stupid jokes that she used to crack during the lecture; the little notes through which they conversed during the class; the way, in which she looked at him from time-to-time, the cute way in which she scolded him whenever he failed to do his part of the assignment, the way in which she shared everything with him – all these made only a small part of their world. She was everything that he had imagined in his soul mate. Lea was funny, intelligent, sensible, witty and beautiful and they both were really good friends. They both understood each other and he knew that Lea was the one for him. Ken was anxious on making her feelings known to Lea. He also sensed that Lea considered him more than a close friend. Although, he had never asked her, he was sure that Lea wasn't interested in any other guy. Making plans for the week, Ken drifted off into sleep.

***

Lea looked at the sunlight spilling across the room and tried to shift on the bed. But she wasn't on the bed. She was sitting on Ken's lap and he had his arm possessively wrapped around her waist. She tried to get up but she knew that she wouldn't be able to do it without waking him up.

'Ken ...,' whispered Lea and tried to turn around.

'Hmm ... What's the hurry, Lea? Today is Sunday,' he said and readjusted her so that she could see him.

Lea ran her fingers across his jaw, feeling his stubble graze her hand. She felt Ken take a sharp intake of breath. She lowered her hand and tried to stand when Ken helped her and stood beside her, making sure she found her footing.

'I have to complete the assignment, Ken,' said Lea as she walked into a room and shut the door, which Ken assumed was hers.

For the first time since midnight, he looked around and saw Lea's apartment. There wasn't much furniture except for the couch, coffee table and a couple of chairs. But it had a homely look which his flat was missing. He wandered into the kitchen and rummaged through the cabinets. He found the coffee and he was searching for cups, when Lea cleared her throat. Standing in a pair of faded jeans and T-shirt, Lea looked cute and beautiful. It took all of Ken's control not to haul her into his arms. Her hair was damp and she tucked the wet strands behind her ear. How can any girl look so beautiful thought Ken as he looked at his angel standing before him.

'Want some coffee?' she asked as she walked into the kitchen and retrieved the cups. 'Why don't you freshen up? I assume you saw my room. There is an attached bathroom.'

'Thanks,' said Ken as ran his hand through his hair as he walked towards her room.

***

'It's very quiet in the morning. Where's Brenda?' asked Ken as he walked into the kitchen.

'She's out on a vacation for a week. It's difficult to stay alone sometimes,' said Lea as she poured the steaming chocolate into 2 cups. 'Here you go,' said Lea and handed Ken his cup.

'How is your Mom?' asked Lea as she looked at Ken, gauging his reaction.

'Mom is fine, I guess. I called her last week. She seems to be having no trouble in managing Dad's business,' said Ken as he traced the pattern on the coffee cup.

'Do you miss him?' said Lea and squeezed his hand. 

'Sometimes, when I need advice, I wish he were ...' said Ken and looked away.

'Why don't you ask your Mom to come down here?'

'She doesn't want to leave home. The house reminds her of Dad and you know how it is ...'

'Yes, I do,' said Lea and looked at Ken earnestly, 'I really want to thank you for yesterday. Thank you, Ken. Thank you for being there when I need you the most.'

'You are welcome, sweetie,' said Ken and enveloped her into a bear hug and whispered against her ear, 'Anytime you want me, just call me up.'

'Thank you,' said Lea and pulled apart. Her blue eyes sparkled and she looked at the couch and said apologetically, 'You should have never slept on the couch with me on top of you. I bet your back might be hurting like hell.'

'What back and what hurt? I am fit as a fiddle,' said Ken with a huge grin and continued, 'I gotta go, Lea. As you said assignment is pending.'

He brushed his knuckles across her cheek and dropped a kiss on her forehead. 'Take care,' said Ken and walked towards the door. 

'You too,' whispered Lea and closed the door. She sat on the couch and the memories of last night flooded into her mind. His deep brown eyes, probing into her heart and the soft kisses that Ken gave her from time-to-time, made her skin tingle. He didn't run away from her when he heard all that she had to endure. Her past didn't scare him and Lea wished that she had met Ken earlier. She knew that Ken was more than a friend for her. Lea thought about the past couple of months which she had spent with Ken. The smart and efficient way in which Ken handled the assignments and projects, the protective way in which he held her hand whenever they crossed the streets and this morning ... Lea shivered when she remembered how badly she wanted to touch him, his reaction when she ran her fingers over his jaw, the heated look in Ken's eyes when she stood before him in the kitchen. It seemed like it took all of his control not to haul her into his arms.

She looked around and got up reluctantly, pushing Ken's thoughts to the back of her mind. You have an assignment to do; she reminded herself and walked towards her room.

***

Ken nudged Lea as he passed a note across the desk. Lea looked down at the note. It read "Wanna go for a movie this weekend?" Lea looked at Ken who seemed to be intently listening to the lecture. She wrote "Today is Friday. U mean Saturday?" She nudged Ken as she placed the note on his desk. Ken merely nodded his head and passed the note back to Lea. "Sure" wrote Lea and passed the note back again to Ken. Ken read Lea's reply and grinned. He signaled her thumbs-up and went back to his notes.

'Is everyone coming?' asked Lea as soon as the class got over.

'Nope, it's just you and me. Any prior appointments?' asked Ken as he gazed at Lea.

'Of course not, Ken. I am completely free. It's just that I wanted to know ...'

'... I understand. Rebecca and Keith are going on a trekking trip. The others were more interested in a trip up the hills and stuff,' said Ken gloomily.

'Don't worry, Mr. Harper. I promise that this weekend will be fun,' said Lea as she squeezed Ken's hand.

'Just being with you is fun, Miss Taylor. Don't think otherwise.'

'By the way, what should I wear?' asked Lea as she rested the tip of her pen against her lower lip.

'Anything you feel comfortable in. Moreover, any dress suits you,' confessed Ken as he took her hand into his. 

'Really?' asked Lea as her eyes shined with a new glow. 'Someone seems to be flattering me today. What do you need, mister? By the way, is it a date?'

'I don't need anything from you. I am just telling you what I have always felt. It's just a casual meeting between friends,' said Ken and pulled Lea to her feet. 'Let's go and grab something to eat.'

***

Wearing an off-shoulder, knee length, navy blue dress, Lea stood apprehensively waiting for Ken. She knew that she was being silly. But she couldn't stop the racing in her heart. Would Ken be impressed with her? Would things change after today? She was lost in her chain of thoughts and was brought back to reality, when the doorbell rang. After one last look at herself, she went and opened the door.

Standing before her was a clean shaven, handsome Ken. He was wearing a polo shirt and a faded pair of jeans. He ran his fingers through his hair and smiled at Lea. 


Because I Still Love You Ch. 01



'You look stunningly beautiful, Lea,' complimented Ken and ran his thumb over her cheek.

'Thank you,' whispered Lea and blushed furiously. 'You look pretty cool yourself.'

He stretched his hand towards Lea and asked, 'Thanks. Shall we?' Lea smiled and placed her hand into his and nodded.

Ken walked her towards an old Classic Bentley car. Lea was surprised as she saw the car.

'Is this car yours?' asked Lea as Ken held the door open for her. Lea got inside the car, admiring the plush interiors of the car and ran her fingers over the leather. Ken walked around the car and climbed in. 

'This is my friend's. He loaned it to me,' said Ken, putting the car into gear.

'Planning to go all the way?' asked Lea as she looked at Ken.

Ken looked at her briefly, before averting his eyes to the heavy traffic ahead. 'I wanted this evening with you to be special.'

'Hmm ...,' sighed Lea and absorbed the feeling of being with Ken. 

***

'What do you want to eat?' asked Ken as he pulled out the chair for Lea.

They were in a cozy restaurant, which Ken had selected after the movie. 

'You order. I am not good at choosing food,' winked Lea as Ken took his seat.

'Ok,' said Ken and gestured towards the waiter.

Lea admired the handsome guy sitting before her. During the entire time at the movie, Ken had clasped her hand. He constantly kept touching her, as if he couldn't stop himself. Lea smiled as she remembered how he held her hand whenever they walked. It seemed like he never wanted to let her go. Lea basked in all the attention that Ken showered on her. 

'Hello? Are you there?' asked Ken as he squeezed Lea's hand.

'Sorry. I got carried away.'

'I hope you like the food,' said Ken as the waiter placed the food on the table.

They silently dug into their food, stealing glances at each other as the evening progressed.

***

Standing before the steps of Lea's residence, Ken smiled and hugged Lea and whispered against her ear, 'Thank you for today. Good night, honey.'

Lea was taken aback by the endearment but she didn't say anything. She just nodded her head and turned around to climb the steps, when Ken held Lea's hand and pulled her towards him. She landed with a thud against his chest. Ken wrapped his hands around her waist. 

'I forgot something,' said Ken and bent, brushing his lips against hers. 'Take care,' murmured Ken as he tucked a few strands of her hair behind her ear and took a step back.

'You too,' mumbled Lea and ran towards the door as she tried to stop blushing.

Once inside, Lea ran into her room, closed the door and sank to her knees. Ken had kissed her ... Although, it was just a brief kiss, but still Lea couldn't stop the pounding in her heart. The feel of his lips against hers ... Were things getting more serious between them? She knew in her heart that they were. The way, in which Ken had treated her the entire evening, she was sure that Ken was bent on making things change. In a haze, she changed her into a pair of pajamas. She climbed into the bed and snuggled deeper into the covers, dreaming about the guy who made her evening.

***

Ken stopped dead in his track when he saw Lea with Michael in the café. He had been calling her up for the past half-an-hour. But there was no response. Now, he understood why. He observed them, who seemed to be engrossed in a conversation, oblivious to the world around them. Michael was popular for his score with the opposite sex. There wasn't any girl whom he hadn't approached. His physique, his way with words and his charismatic personality made the girls drool over him. And now he had found his new target ... Lea. Ken glanced at Lea who seemed to be intently listening to Michael's god-only-knows-what tales. And then, all of a sudden Lea burst into laughter at something that Michael had said. Ken boiled with rage at the sight of Lea, holding Michael's arm as she tried to steady herself. Michael then bent and whispered something, which made Lea widen her eyes and she again burst into laughter. Michael then jerked his head towards Ken and Lea looked at Ken. She waved towards him. Ken just gave her a wry smile. She caught Michael's arm and whispered something, which made Michael nod his head in acknowledgement. He blew her a kiss as she gave him a wave and walked towards Ken.

Ken looked at Lea walking towards him with a bright smile on her face. He tried to control his anger. Lea didn't know how he felt about her. He didn't have any rights over her. She didn't know ...

'Hello handsome,' said Lea and gave him a brief hug. 'All ok?'

'Everything's fine,' said Ken in a matter-of-fact voice and pulled away from Lea. 'Where is your phone?'

'Oh! Did you call?' asked Lea as she fished her phone out of her bag and looked at the screen. 'Oh, you called. Sorry, I put it on vibration. I didn't expect your call.'

'Are the slides ready?' asked Ken as he looked at Lea sternly.

'No, I have some doubts. I thought of discussing them ...'

Before Lea could complete, Ken said sharply, 'If you keep on sashaying around with the guys in the campus, you can hardly get the work done.'

'What the fuck, Ken? Mind your language,' screamed Lea, 'just because I am your friend, doesn't mean you can say anything about me, as you please.'

'I won't keep my mouth shut,' said Ken as his pupils dilated and he backed her into a corner. He clutched her elbow forcefully, making her wince in pain and thundered, 'Not getting enough attention, Miss Taylor? Wanna be Miss Popular?'

'Let me go, Ken,' hissed Lea, her eyes dark with anger. 'You are hurting me.'

Ken looked at her and then immediately let go of her. She rubbed her elbow and looked at him. His eyes softened and he looked at her remorsefully. 'I am sorry, Lea. I didn't mean to hurt you. I am such a fuck-up ...,' said Ken and walked away.

'Ken, wait ...,' but before Lea could stop him, he was out of hearing distance. He seemed unhappy and she knew that he didn't mean all that he had said. It was the first time that Ken had been violent. Never had she seen him so angry. For her, he was the coolest guy in the campus. But then what had prompted him to behave in such a way? Then she remembered that he had seen her with Michael. Surely, he didn't think that ... She smiled as she understood his emotional turmoil. Poor Ken! Shaking her head, she went in search of her Ken.

***

'Mind if I sit down?' asked Lea. She had found Ken on the stairs, leading to the library.

Ken didn't say anything and just stared into the distant space. Lea sat down beside him and took his hands into hers.

'Hey, look at me. Please Ken,' said Lea softly as she sat before him as took his face into her hands, making sure he looked at her face.

'I am sorry, sweetie,' whispered Ken and pulled Lea into a huge bear hug.

'It's alright and I understand, Ken. I really do,' said Lea against his ear. She pulled back and ran her fingers through his hair. 'Michael was just being ... Michael. There is nothing going on between us. I am not a fool to fall for his words. Ok?' asked Lea as she gazed at Ken.

'How can it be ok, Lea?' thundered Ken, furious at himself for his rude behavior. 'Did I hurt you?' asked Ken as he looked at her arm. 'How badly are they bruised?' he asked as he kept running his fingers over the marks.

'It's alright, Ken. Don't worry. They will be fine.'

'I am such a moron ...'

'Hey, no! Don't bad mouth yourself. Don't beat yourself up over such a small thing,' said Lea as she sat down beside him, looping her hand around his arm.

'I promise it won't happen again,' said Ken and kissed her palm. 'You are not angry, right? You can hit me if you want. I deserve it,' said Ken and pulled Lea closer.

'I am not angry and I won't hit you. You are too sweet to be slapped,' said Lea.

'Are we still friends?'

'Of course, we are. You will always be my best friend, Ken. Unless you don't want to be friends ...'

'You mean a lot to me, Lea. Don't you dare forget this.'

'Same here, Ken,' said Lea and she pulled away and stood up. 'Wanna clear my doubts?'

'Sure. Let's go to the library,' said Ken and held Lea's hand.

***

Lea was woken from her deep slumber with the shrill ringing of her phone. She glanced at the clock. It was exactly midnight. Who was calling her at such ungodly hour? She flipped on the light and Ken's name flashing on the screen. Ken? Why was he calling her now?

'Hello,' said Lea groggy from sleep.

'Hey birthday girl, many many happy returns of the day,' screamed Ken from the other end.

Lea was awestruck. It was for the first time that someone had called her up and wished her. Her parents never bothered and her friends hardly remembered.

'Thank you, Ken,' said Lea as her throat choked with emotion.

'I am coming over. Leave the front door open and be in your bedroom. I will be right there,' said Ken and clicked the phone shut.

Lea stared blankly at the phone as it slipped from her hand. Ken was coming over? She looked at her clothes. She was in a night gown which didn't even reach below the knees. And hell! She didn't even have the time to change into something casual. She ran and unlocked the front door, leaving it ajar. She had barely splashed some water on her face when she heard Ken close the front door.

She sat on the bed and waited for Ken to make his appearance. She drew the covers up, till her chin, making sure that she was decent. Ken stood at her door and looked at her, with a huge grin.

'Hello beautiful,' he said and walked in with a huge box in his hand.

Lea just gave him a smile and fought hard not to blush. His presence did funny things to her. Ken kept the box on the table nearby. He closed her bedroom door and walked towards the table. He opened the huge box and retrieved a small box and placed it on the bed, near her feet. Lea peeled away the covers and was surprised to find a delicious looking chocolate cake inside. Her eyes glowed with happiness as she looked at Ken. He looked at Lea and chuckled.

'I am happy that you like the surprise,' said Ken and started lighting the candles on the cake. 'Make a wish before you blow them,' he said and handed her a knife.

Lea closed her eyes and then blew the candles. Ken clapped his hands and kissed Lea on the forehead. 'Happy birthday, sweetie,' he whispered.

'Thank you,' said Lea and cut the cake. She offered a piece of cake to Ken who forced it down her mouth. 'Not fair,' pouted Lea and fed him another piece of cake. Ken accepted the piece and licked Lea's fingers, wiping them clean of all the cream. Lea felt a million sensations run through her body as he sucked her fingers. Finally, he brushed his lips against the insides of her wrist and let it go.

'Time for my gift,' said Ken and walked back towards the table.

'As if all this wasn't enough,' muttered Lea and watched Ken rummage through the box. He finally came back to the bed with a small box and a bunch of red roses in his hand. 

'These are for the most beautiful girl in my world,' said Ken and offered the roses.

'Thanks,' murmured Lea softly, as she blushed furiously and looked away. Her heart flipped and did a somersault as she looked at the bright red roses in her hand. 

And the next thing she knew, Ken was down on his knees before her. Her mouth went dry as she watched him. Surely he didn't mean to .... Ken took a deep breath and gazed into her sparkling blue eyes, fondly.

'Lea, you have been a really good friend for the past 3 months,' said Ken as he took her hand into his and continued, 'you know everything about me and I know that there is nothing that I don't know about you. You are the best friend that I never had but always dreamed about. There isn't a single day when I don't think about you. You are it for me. I don't know a better way of telling this. So, here it is ... I love you, Lea. I know that it is too soon, but I can't spend another day without letting you know how I feel ...,' confessed Ken and let go of her hand. He took a deep breath and asked, 'Miss Lea Taylor, can I have the pleasure of your companionship for the rest of my life? Will you marry me?' asked Ken and flipped open the box, which contained a diamond ring that glittered in the light.

'Oh Ken,' said Lea and slid down to her knees, forgetting the fact that she was wearing only a skimpy gown. Tears welled up in her eyes and she launched herself into his arms and hugged him with all her strength. 'I love you too, Ken,' whispered Lea as she pulled back a little and looked at Ken, who seemed to be still waiting for an answer to his question.

'And yes, I will marry you,' said Lea and her eyes shone with happiness. Ken removed the ring from its confinement and slid it onto her finger. Lea looked at the ring shine brilliantly on her finger.

'Like it?' asked Ken as she stroked her jaw.

'I love it, Ken. It's absolutely gorgeous. But you didn't need to get me something so expensive. I would have loved anything you gave me,' said Lea and curled further into Ken. 'I love you, Ken Harper.'

'I love you too, honey,' said Ken and smiled, 'I know you would love anything that I gave you. And the size and cost of ring wouldn't matter much. But I wanted something special. That's because you are the only one who knows the real me. If I were penniless tomorrow or injured and disfigured you did still love me, wouldn't you, Lea?'

'Of course,' she said sincerely, 'you know that, Ken.'

'Yes, I do,' said Ken and ran his fingers up and down her arms, giving goose bumps in the rise. 'I sometimes feel that I am one lucky guy to have you, Lea. I know that I don't deserve you ...'

'... No, you deserve everything in life, Ken,' said Lea and Ken looked at her with an amused look on his face.

'This is one among the many things I love about you,' said Ken and brushed his lips against hers, 'you are always ready to defend me.'

'Kiss me,' whispered Lea as she bent forward, her lips only a breath away from Ken's.

'Come here,' said Ken as he stood and pulled Lea into his arms. He placed her on the bed and stretched on the bed beside her. 'You look cute in this gown,' said Ken and pulled her closer, his lips hovering over hers.

His lips met hers and brushed softly. He ran his tongue over her lips as if seeking her permission to enter. Her lips yielded under pressure and his tongue entered her mouth mating with hers, stroking and claiming what he considered his. The kiss went on and on and when he finally pulled away, they both were breathless.

'Wow ...,' said Lea as she snuggled into Ken. 'You are a really good kisser, mister,' said Lea and traced his lower lip with her finger before nibbling at it.

'Thank you,' said Ken and caught Lea's face and smoldered another hot kiss on her lips, making her clutch onto him.

'My turn,' said Lea and pushed Ken onto his back. She stretched on top of him and ran her fingers over his whiskers. She shoved his arms upward and traced his jaw with her finger tip. She nibbled his jaw, making way towards his neck. She leaned forward and nipped at his neck. Lightly at first, then she sank her teeth into the corded muscle behind his ear. He groaned and shifted underneath her. He started to lower his arms, but she sat up and put both hands on his chest in protest.

'Don't move,' said Lea sharply as she shot him a glance.

He grinned and slowly let his hands fall back to the pillow. 'I think I like you this way. The sexy tigress attitude suits you, baby.'

'Maybe I should I have done it sooner, then,' she whispered. 'Maybe then you would have already been under my charms.'

His eyes darkened and he looked at her with a new passion. 'Who says I am not under your wild charms? You had me under your spell since day 1.'

'I am glad,' cooed Lea and whispered seductively, 'Wanna lose the clothes?'

Ken merely nodded his head. Lea snaked her hands beneath his T-shirt and dragged it up. Ken lifted himself from the bed and removed his T-shirt and flung it across the room. Lea looked at Ken's broad chest and took her fill, running his fingers across his taut muscles. She wet her finger and circled his nipple with it. She then blew her breath over his nipple, making him shiver. 

'God ... You are a little minx,' groaned Ken and he looked at the girl, who was bent on teasing him. 'Lea ...,' moaned Ken as she tugged at his nipple with her sharp teeth. Lea then placed a flurry of kisses across his midriff and abdomen, kissing each of his abs and made way towards the waistband of his jeans. She tugged at his chest hair, making him gasp. 

'Shh ...' said Lea and ran her finger above the waistband of his jeans, making him shudder. She unbuttoned the fly of his jeans and lowered the zipper. Ken lifted his hips as Lea tugged down his jeans along with the boxers. He kicked them off and lowered his hands, as he brushed the underside of her breasts. He placed his hands on her waist and said huskily, 'Honey, do you mind losing your clothes?'

'Later,' said Lea as she fascinatingly ran her finger over his straining erection.

'You are beautiful,' whispered Lea and looked at Ken, who seemed to be hanging to the fine thread of control. 'Show me ...,' mumbled Lea and she drew his hand towards his cock.

Ken was more than ready to relieve some of his pressure. He sat up and adjusted the pillows behind his back and pulled Lea onto his side. She rose on her elbows and kissed his lips briefly. He curled his fingers around his cock. 'Do you want me to show you how I get myself off--or do you want to help?' 

'Both.' She gave a shy little smile made all the sexier by her breathless voice, by the heat in her eyes.

And he damned near came. 

Almost unable to breathe, Lea watched as Ken gripped himself and began to move his hand slowly up and down the length of his erection, his fingers sliding up the underside all way to the tip, before moving down to the base again. She knew he was watching her, but she couldn't take her gaze off what his hand was doing. Everything about him fascinated her--the soft skin that covered hard muscle, the dark hair on his chest, the veins that threaded over his biceps and lower belly. 

And his penis ...

A bead of moisture emerged from the slit on the tip, the head rising from a thick ridge of flesh, the shaft straining upward. 

Wanting desperately to touch him, wanting to give him pleasure, she reached out and cupped his testicles, kneading them gently. The feel of them was unlike anything she'd touched before--heavy, firm, and yet somehow . . . fragile. 

Still watching her, he groaned deep in his chest, his hand moving faster--up-down, up-down, up-down. His motions were nothing like the delicate touches that had brought her to orgasm. They were much more forceful, more potent, and she realized this was how he would move if he were inside her--hard, strong, and fast. 

And her inner muscles clenched. 

The next time his hand moved upward, she closed hers around the base of his penis. His hips jerked, and he all but growled. Then his hands fell aside, his fingers closing in a fist.

Slowly, she moved her hand upward, surprised at how hard he felt. Not just firm, but hard. She touched the sensitive tip, letting her fingers explore him, excited by his gasp, and then slid her hand to the base again. She was about to ask him to guide her, when his hand closed over hers and he began to guide her. He tightened her grip, his fingers gentle, and then he began to move her hand, gradually increasing the pace, whispering to her almost frantically. 'Lose the gown, Lea baby. I want to see you!'

Lea, in slow motion, moved away and sat up. She caught the hem of her night gown and raised her arms and pulled it above her head. Her breasts brushed against the gown on the way and swayed, making Ken stroke his erection as he watched the divine nymph undress before him.




Because I Still Love You Ch. 01



'You are mesmerizingly beautiful,' said Ken and ran his fingers over her jaw. 'Come here,' said Ken and patted the empty space on the bed, beside him. She scrambled and settled near Ken, watching him stroke himself. She again cupped him and stroked him. Ken closed his hand over hers and whispered, 'Spread your legs, Lea. Let me touch you!'

She moved her knees farther apart, and his other hand slid insistently between her thighs, his fingers gathering her slippery wetness and rubbing it over her clitoris, stroking her with such skill that she almost forgot to focus on him. 'Ken!'

Somehow, touching her seemed to arouse him even more. His eyes drifted shut, his head turned to the side, and his grip on her hand tightened. His hips thrust forward, the rhythm almost violent as he drove himself into her fist like a piston. His body was drawn so tight she thought it might snap, the cords of his neck standing out, his chest slick with sweat, and his hand still bust between her legs.

She knew he was on the edge, but so was she. Oh, the guy knew how to touch a woman – and where. He teased her, probed her, and then slowly slid a finger inside her, his wrist flexing so that the heel of his hand pushed against her right where it felt best. She moved against his hand, her motions making his finger slid in and out of her, bringing her to the very brink.

'That's it, honey. Ride my hand!' Ken opened his eyes, looked at where his body joined hers. 'God, you are so wet!'

With a deep groan, Ken arched, his hips giving three more hard thrusts, his penis convulsing in her hand, shooting ribbons of thick, white semen over their fingers and his belly. The sight was more erotic and stirring than she could have imagined, and the raw sexuality of it sent her over the edge with him.

Feeling strangely contented, Ken cradled Lea's head against his shoulder, watching through half-closed eyes as she trailed a finger through the pool of ejaculation on his belly. She dabbed at it, made little circles in it, rubbed it into his skin like lotion, her actions somehow both innocent and amusing.

'I love you,' said Lea and kissed his shoulder, snuggling further into his embrace.

'I love you too,' whispered Ken. 'Give me a second, baby,' said Ken and pulled away from her. He walked towards the attached bathroom and came back within a few seconds, the evidence of his pleasure washed away. 

'Give me your hand, Lea,' said Ken and wiped her fingers clean with a washcloth. He went back to the bathroom and returned seconds later. He climbed in and flipped off the light. He pulled Lea closer and cuddled her, making sure she was comfortable. Lea sighed and allowed Ken to position her. 'Good night, Lea,' murmured Ken and kissed her forehead, as he drew the covers over them and drifted off. 

***

Lea woke up as the sunlight shone through her windows. She closed her eyes and snuggled further into the warm body that lay next to her. Ken! She looked at the ring on her finger and looked at the amazing guy who was sleeping beside her. Unable to control herself, she kissed his lips and whispered, 'Thank you for making my birthday a special one.' She sat up and stretched. She looked around and saw their clothes strewn all over the floor. A blush crept up her face as she remembered the adventures of last night. She got up and folded the clothes and placed them near the foot of the bed and entered the bathroom.

Ken turned over and burrowed into the covers. He breathed in Lea's scent and smiled. Lea ... his Lea ... The sound of water splashing reached his eyes. He opened one eye and glanced at the bedside clock read 06: 14 A. M. What was Lea doing so early in the morning? May be she didn't remember that it was an off-day. He pushed back the covers and saw his clothes, neatly folded. He walked towards the bathroom and saw that the door was ajar.

He pushed the door open and walked inside.

'Getting started without me?' asked Ken and Lea swirled around, surprised.

'You were sleeping,' said Lea softly as she stood under the shower, naked before Ken.

Ken moved closer towards the warm spray of water and placed his hands on her waist, drawing her close. 'Shall I leave?' asked Ken as he ran a finger across her jaw.

'No ...,' protested Lea and held him closer, 'stay ...,' said Lea and looped her hands around his neck.

'Wanna take a shower together?' asked Ken as he brought her away from the spray of water and squirted some shower gel onto his hand.

Lea nodded and allowed Ken to lather her body. Ken ran his lathered hands over the curve of her body, making her shiver. He reached for the washcloth nearby and cupped her pussy and ran a finger over her slit, making her tremble. 

'Are you sore?' asked Ken and ran the washcloth over her lathered skin.

'No,' murmured Lea, shyly and allowed Ken to pull her under the warm spray of water.

'Looks like the tigress has mellowed down today ...,' teased Ken and ran his fingers through her scalp. He opened the shampoo bottle and took some of it into his hand and massaged into her scalp and allowed the spray to wash away the lather. Ken turned off the tap and reached for the towels. He dried Lea and tucked it above her chest.

'Go and get dressed,' said Ken giving Lea a pat on her rear. 'Wear something casual,' he said before shutting the bathroom door.

***

'Where the hell is the project file, Lea?' asked Ken as he entered the kitchen, hands on his hips.

'It might be in the closet, baby,' said Lea as she poured the batter into the baking tin.

It had been a month since Lea had moved into Ken's flat. Lea was hesitant at first, but Ken had been persistent in his persuasions. And eventually, Lea had to give in.

'How many times did I ask you not to touch my stuff?' asked Ken and left the room in a huff.

'What's your problem, dammit?' asked Lea as she walked into the study and looked at Ken.

'Nothing,' muttered Ken as he found the file and walked away, leaving Lea alone.

'Where are you going?' asked Lea as she held Ken's arm.

'Rebecca is waiting for me. She has some doubts,' said Ken, casually and moved away.

'When will you be back?' asked Lea as Ken walked towards the front door.

'Depends on Rebecca,' replied Ken curtly and walked away, without even a cursory glance at Lea.

***

Ken unlocked the front door and walked inside. The entire house was dark and he tried to adjust his eyes at the sudden loss of light. He found the light switch and flipped it on. The door to the study was open and he could see Lea sitting before the computer, staring at the screen. He closed the front door and made way towards the study. 

'Lea?' said Ken as he walked towards her.

Oblivious to Ken's presence, Lea was lost in her own world. The way in which Ken had behaved in the morning, made her realize that may be things weren't as good as they seemed to be. Was she about to lose the best thing that had happened to her? She was much happier these days. It wasn't that the nightmares were gone. She still had bad dreams once in a while, but they were growing less frequent. When dreams woke her, Ken would hold her, and they would talk or make love, and she would sleep again. She shivered as she imagined her future without Ken. Returning back to the lonely life that she had left far behind ...

'Lea?' asked Ken as he placed his hand on her shoulder. 'Are you alright?'

Lea was brought out of her reverie and looked at Ken blankly. Seeing Ken before her, Lea realized that may be Ken didn't want to be with her anymore. May be he had found someone ...

'Lea, I don't like the look on your face,' said Ken as he kneeled before her and lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him. 'What's wrong, baby?'

'Do you love me?' asked Lea before jerking her face away from his hold.

'What's wrong with you, sweetie?' asked Ken softly. 'I love you, Lea. I will always love you.'

'Ok,' said Lea and tried to get up and walk away, when Ken stopped her. 'Lea, I am sorry for whatever happened this morning.'

'It's alright, Ken,' said Lea and looked away.

'No, it's not alright, dammit,' said Ken as he abruptly stood up. 'Come here,' whispered Ken and hauled Lea into his arms.

'Ken, I gotta complete the assignment,' protested Lea as he carried her into their bedroom and placed her on the bed. 

'Shh... The stupid assignment can wait ...' Ken bent and kissed her lingeringly. 'But your Ken ...' He slid his mouth down her jaw to her neck and nibbled at her ear. 'Cannot ...' He licked the pulse point at her neck, and she gasped. 'And will not wait ...'

Lea smiled and ran her fingers through his hair. She pulled him close and nibbled his jaw. 'I love you, baby. I will try not to touch your stuff.'

'Touch all that you want but right now, let me do the touching,' whispered Ken and ran his calloused fingers against her collarbone, giving her goose-bumps. 

Ken sat beside her and popped open the buttons of her nightshirt and peeled it off her delectable body. He hooked his fingers in the waistband of her pants and tugged them down. Lea lifted her bottom just enough that he could slide the material down her legs and then there she was, sitting so dainty and beautiful wearing nothing but just her dimpled smile.

She was the most beautiful sight he'd ever seen. Hair tousled just enough to make her look sexy. Eyes glazed with passion instead of deep sadness. And her skin, so soft, glowing in the lamplight. She was curvy in all the right places. He stood only long enough to strip out of his clothes. It wasn't practiced or smooth. She stared shyly up at him and he nearly groaned.

'Baby, you have to stop looking at me like that.'

Lea smiled then, an adorable, sweet smile that took his breath away. He swept her into his arms, hauling her back on the bed. They landed with a soft bounce and he claimed her mouth, wanting to taste her again and again. Leaning down, he kissed the shallow indention between her breasts and then nuzzled the swell. He sucked lightly the puckered point of her breasts, enjoying the sensation of her on his tongue. Underneath him, she quivered and her breathing sped up in reaction.

Palming both breasts, he caressed, rubbed his thumbs across the tips before lowering his head to suck at one and then the other. He nipped lightly, causing the peak to harden even further. Then he slid his mouth down her middle to the softness of her belly, where he licked a damp circle around her navel.

Chill bumps rose and danced their way across her rib cage. She stirred restlessly, murmuring what sounded like a plea for more. He moved back over her, his head lowering over the soft flesh between her legs. Then he stroked his hands over her hips and downwards. He spread her thighs with firm hands, opening her to his advances. He lowered his mouth, pressed his lips to the soft folds and nuzzled softly until she strained upwards to meet him.

'Ken,' she whispered.

Ken licked gently at the tiny nub surrounded by silken folds, enjoying every jitter and shudder that rolled through her body. She was more than ready to take him, but he held back, enjoying his sensual exploration of her most intimate flesh.

Slowly he worked downward until he tasted the very heart of her, stroking with lazy, seductive swipes of his tongue. She began to shake uncontrollably and her thighs tightened around her opening and then moved up her body, positioning himself between her legs. He found her heat and sank inside with one powerful thrust. Her chin went up, her eyes closed and her lips tightened in an expression that was almost agonizing. He kissed the dimple in her chin and then slid his mouth down her neck and to the delicate hollow of her throat. Her pulse beat wildly, jumping against her pale skin, a staccato against his mouth. Her slender arms went around him, gripping with surprising strength. Her nails dug into his shoulders with kitten claws.

'Put your legs around me,' Ken said. 'Just like that, baby. Perfect.'

Lea crossed her heels at the small of his back and arched into each thrust. Her fingers danced their way across his back, sometimes light and then scorching its flesh when he thrust again. She thrust one hand into his hair, pulling forcefully until he realized she was demanding his kiss. With a light chuckle, he gave in to her silent demand and found her mouth.

Breathless, sweet, their tongues worked hotly over each other, dueling, fighting for dominance. She had suddenly become the aggressor and he was lost, unable to deny her anything. She was wrapped around him, her body urging him on, arching to meet him and finding a perfect rhythm so they moved as one.

Sex had never been this ... perfect.

'Are you close?' he choked out.

'Don't stop,' she begged.

'Oh hell, I am not.'

Ken closed his eyes and thrust hard and deep. And then he began working his hips against hers in rapid, urgent movements. She let out a strangled cry and came apart in his arms, around him, underneath him. He was bathed in liquid heat and he had never felt anything so damn good in his life.

'Lea,' Ken whispered. 'My Lea. Mine.'

He unraveled at light speed, his release sharp, bewildering and beautiful. His hips were still convulsively moving against her body as he settled down over her, too exhausted and spent to remember his own name. He became aware of her gentle caresses. Her hands gently stroked over his back. He was inside her, over her and completely covering her. She was his.

'Lea, I won't let you go so easily,' he murmured against her ear. 'There isn't anybody other than you. You are it for me, baby. I love you, baby. Love you a lot,' whispered Ken and rolled onto his back, pulling her along with him. 

Lea dragged the covers over them and settled beside him, throwing her thigh possessively over his. Ken stroked her back and Lea curled into him. 'I love you too, Ken. Hold me,' said Lea and Ken looped his hand over her waist.

'Good night, sweetie,' murmured Ken and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

'Hmm ... night,' mumbled Lea and drifted into sleep.

***

'Enough, baby. I can't eat anymore,' whined Lea as Ken offered her another spoonful.

'Come on, Lea. Just one more spoon,' coaxed Ken as he forced the spoon into her mouth.

'You are spoiling me,' pouted Lea as she swallowed the food. 'And you are making me fat,' she said looking down at herself.

'I have got every right to spoil you,' grinned Ken and he looked at her admiringly, 'And who the hell says you are fat? You must gain a couple of pounds. '

'Yeah, right,' said Lea as she rolled her eyes. 'I gotta go, baby. The interview is in 2 hours. Wish me luck,' she said as she hopped from the chair and gathered her belongings.

'Are you sure that you don't want me to drop you?' asked Ken as he helped Lea into her cardigan. 

'Relax, Ken. I will be fine,' she said and walked towards him. 'Do you wanna go for the interview?'

'No, you are best suited for the job. And moreover, Mom wants me to handle Dad's business,' said Ken as he looped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer.

'I love you, Ken,' whispered Lea as she brushed her lips against his.

'All the best, Lea,' said Ken as he pulled apart and looked into her mesmerizingly beautiful eyes. 'You will rock, honey.'

'Thanks,' said Lea and walked towards the door. She gave him a small wave as she closed the door.

I hope she gets the job thought Ken as he cleared the plates from the table. The HR of a multinational company had been impressed with their presentation during a class and had informed them about the vacancies in the company. But upon Ken's further questioning, they got to know that there was only a single post available and they would have to decide among themselves, who was more suited for the post. Ken had thought about it and had suggested that Lea was more qualified for the post. Although Lea was reluctant, Ken had forced her to apply leaving her no choice. Ken remembered the argument between them that fateful day. Lea had been insistent that Ken apply for the post. But Ken knew that he had his Dad's business to look after. On the other hand, Lea was all alone and that she needed this job more than he did. After a lot of heated discussion and promises, Lea had agreed to appear for the interview. Ken kept his fingers crossed as he prayed for Lea's success.

***

'What if your Mom doesn't like me?' asked Lea as she looked at Ken apprehensively. 'Oh God! This is more frightening than the interview,' said Lea as she tucked the wild strands of hair behind her ear.

'Stop being so jittery, sweetie,' whispered Ken as he rang the doorbell. 'Mom is more than happy to meet you,' he said as he held her hand and pressed a kiss on her palm.

'Don't leave me alone,' said Lea as held Ken's hand tightly. 'I won't be able to do this without you.'

'I love you, Lea. Relax,' said Ken as he looped his hand around her waist and pulled her close.

'I am glad you made it,' said a cheerful voice forcing the love-birds to look at the door.

'Hey Mom,' said Ken as he squeezed his mother's hand and pulled her into a brief hug, 'of course, we would have made it.'

They entered the house and Lea admired the homely feel which had always been missing since her childhood. The house seemed to be filled with love and Lea understood why Ken's mother didn't want to leave the house. 

'So, this is Lea,' enquired Mrs. Caitlyn Harper as she looked at the girl standing with her son.

'Yes, Mom this is Lea Taylor and Lea, this is my mother,' introduced Ken as they occupied the couch.

'Glad to meet you Mrs. Harper,' said Lea as she flashed her cute smile and extended her hand.

'Call me Caitlyn,' said Ken's mother and took Lea's hand into hers, 'Like the house?'

'Yes,' murmured Lea shyly and held onto Ken's hand. 'Can I call you Mom?' asked Lea, a little hesitant to voice her opinion.

'Of course you can, Lea. Ken told me about your past. I am sorry that you had to go through such a painful ordeal,' said Caitlyn sympathetically and touched Lea's shoulder.

'I don't mean to ...'

Caitlyn looked at Lea and smiled. 'I understand how you feel, Lea. But there's nothing to be afraid of.'

'Mom, Lea is scared of you,' grinned Ken as he looked at Lea, who shot daggers at him. 'She thinks you won't like her.'

Lea swallowed hard and said, 'I didn't mean to hurt you, Mom ... It's just that I want ... I ...'

'I understand, Lea. Trust me, I am not going to judge you. Now, would you like to help me in the kitchen?' asked Caitlyn as she stood and held out her hand.

'Love to,' said Lea as she placed her hand into Caitlyn's hand and walked towards the kitchen.

'I will be in my bedroom, ladies,' said Ken as he looked at the two beautiful women in his life.

***

'I like Mom,' said Lea as she snuggled against Ken's chest.

'I am glad you do because she seemed to be besotted by you,' said Ken as he stroked her back. 'She warned me not to let you go out of my sight.'

'We should have told her about my job,' said Lea as she rose on her elbows and looked down at Ken. 'I don't wanna go so far,' murmured Lea with a pout.

'Come on, Lea. We can tell her when everything's settled. What's the hurry?' asked Ken as he pulled her close. 'And by the way, New York is not far away.'

'I can't stay alone,' said Lea as she cuddled against Ken and laid her head on his shoulder. 'I will miss you.'

'Baby, I will be there every weekend. I can reach you by flight in a couple of hours,' said Ken as he ran his fingers across her arm. 'You will be fine, Lea.'

'Easier said than done,' said Lea as she turned away and closed her eyes. She tried to sleep but the thought of living alone in an unknown place gave her the creeps. Would she be able to live without Ken? She could hardly imagine staying away from Ken for a couple of hours and now, she would have to live in a completely different city and be content with his weekly visits. 




Because I Still Love You Ch. 02



This is the second part of the three part series.

[Just a brief clarification for all those who didn't get the plot - Lea and Ken are married and a few days after the wedding, Lea moves to New York. Ken stays back in Chicago to handle his Dad's business. Readers commented that why they should get married, if she is moving away and why not make them stay together. But what's the fun, if they are together? The real test of any relationship is when the two people are miles apart. And as the saying goes, "When you really love someone, age, distance, height, weight ... is just a damn number."]

Happy reading ... 

***

"I will be there by Friday night. Till then, take care. Lots of love."

Lea stared at the e-mail in her inbox. Ken was coming over this weekend! Although they were constantly in touch, she still missed him. In the past 5 days that she had spent away from Ken, she realized how much she was used to his presence in her life. Ken always tried to be in touch, never wanting her to be alone, calling her during the lunch hours, sending her sweet emails and the late night calls were a given. After the long, weary and lonely nights that she spent in her house in New York, this news was like a breath of fresh air. She glanced at the clock on the desk and looked at the empty kitchen cabinets. She was running short of the supplies. She made a quick mental note of all the groceries that she needed. It was Wednesday and she wasn't free until Friday evening. She could go to the store and get the supplies before Ken's arrival. By Friday night, Ken would here and maybe she could sleep peacefully for a couple of days.

***

Ken looked at his watch as the taxi pulled before Lea's apartment. It was 5 minutes past 6. He knew that Lea wouldn't have been back from work. He hadn't informed her about his flight timings. He wanted to surprise her. He waited before Lea's apartment with the spare key in his hand. He unlocked the door and carried his night bag inside. He locked the door and shrugged out of his jacket. The house smelled of her ... Her decorations covered the walls and their photographs adorned most of the vacant shelves. He walked further inside exploring the bedroom and the kitchen. Although, the house was devoid of most of the furniture, it still looked homely and inhabitable. He rummaged through the cabinets and found that she had run out of the supplies. That was so typical of her ... She hardly cared about the groceries. Even when they lived together, he was the one who used to run and get the supplies every week.

'I wish you were here,' he said as he looked at the empty house. He sat on the couch in the balcony overlooking the city below. Wish time would move faster he thought as he stared at the orange glow that was scattered across the sky.

***

Lea managed to unlock the door as she pushed the heavy bag inside. The house was still dark and she wondered what was wrong with Ken? He hadn't called and his phone wasn't reachable. What if he missed his flight? She flipped on the light and looked at the empty house wearily. She walked mechanically towards the kitchen carrying the supplies and loaded them into the refrigerator and the cabinets. She tied up her hair and walked towards the bedroom. Once inside, she shucked out of her jeans and T-shirt and walked into the bathroom. She turned on the shower and allowed the hot spray of water to wash away the day.

***

Ken observed Lea load the supplies and he smiled as he saw the disappointment on her face when she realized that he still hadn't made it. He heard the shower in the bedroom and walked towards the room. He saw her clothes strewn all over the floor. He removed his T-shirt and flung it across the room. The door was ajar and he could see her outline. His cock strained against his jeans as he remembered the days when they made love in the shower. 

Lea heard someone curse as she stood underneath the shower. She tried to open her eyes but before she could process, a pair of strong hands gripped her, making her immobile. She had locked the front door, hadn't she? She was about to scream when the hands turned her around and left her body. She looked up, only to find Ken staring at her with a huge grin.

'Ken, where the hell have you been?' asked Lea looking at him sharply.

'Is this the way to greet your husband, Mrs. Harper?' asked Ken coyly.

'You are so bad,' said Lea as she sauntered towards Ken slyly.

Ken stretched out his arms and jerked her hard into his body. His mouth muffled her words. He kissed her, letting her feel his love, his lust. When he pulled away, Lea was dazed. 

He kissed her again, a quick hard kiss, and then whispered, 'I love you, Lea. I would have made it anyway. And you might as well remember that, I shall never leave you alone.'

Before Lea could form a reply, Ken picked her up and carried her towards the bed. As he lowered her to the mattress, his mouth came down on hers again, stifling any sound she might have made. Lea struggled against him, especially when he pulled away. His head lowered to her breast and he sucked her nipple gently into the heat of his mouth. Lea arched off the mattress with a harsh cry of pleasure.

Lowering his full weight onto her to keep her still, Ken trailed his mouth over her breasts, kissing the other nipple, then moving down to her ribs. Lea writhed beneath his comforting weight, loving the feel of him over her, surrounding her. Her earlier disappointment, combined with his sudden appearance and her raw emotions, left no room for anything other than need. Ken growled and his hand slid between her thighs, seeking and probing. He didn't hold back now, didn't temper his desire or his urgency. Lea moaned. 

'I need you, babe. Right now.'

'Yes.'

Lea said the word mindlessly, her hips lifting into his, pressing. Sitting between her widespread legs, he looked at her. The heat in his eyes thrilled her. He was here, and he wanted her.

'Ken?'

'I am sorry, sweetheart, but I can't wait.'

Lea screamed when his mouth pressed against her sensitive flesh. His tongue touched and explored; he suckled and nipped with his sharp teeth and through it all, he held her legs wide with his rough hands. Lea had almost no time to adjust to the unfamiliar caresses before she felt her climax building. Her body arched high, pressing her closer to his mouth, closer ... She felt suspended with intense pleasure for long seconds before the feelings began to diminish.

When she slumped into the mattress, her breathing still harsh and her heart thundering against her ribs, Ken leaned back and quickly fumbled with his belt and the closure of his slacks. The zipper came down and he eased the restriction of clothing away from his erection.

Balancing on his arms above her, he positioned himself, and then gently probed against her slick folds. He made a low sound of pleasure. 'You feel so hot and wet.' He slid in an inch, placing himself, and then squeezed his eyes closed. 'Tight.'

Lea wrapped her legs around him. She loved him. And she needed him now. Ken.

He thrust forward, and in this new position, with him planted firmly between her thighs, left her helpless to counter his thrusts. The sense of being totally vulnerable to him ... feeling him so deeply inside her, stretching her ... enhanced her pleasure rather than inhibiting it. They both groaned.

When he gruffly apologized, Lea knew he had meant to be slow and gentle. But their mating had turned urgent. Unlike the lovemaking that they often indulged in, this was wild and primal, and so beautiful, she cried.

Within minutes, she came again, but it was better this time, the feelings more intense, deeper, because Ken was a part of her. She wrapped herself around him and screamed with pleasure. Ken's low growl followed, while his shoulders tensed and his hips pumped wildly. The he slumped onto her, his body limp, sated.

Lea drew her fingers up and down the long expanse of his back, solid with muscle, warm and damp from his sweat. She loved him, every big gorgeous inch of him, from his hair-rough legs to his whiskered chin. He was the most incredible man and if she could believe her good fortune, he was hers.

Smiling, she said, 'You were wrong.'

He stiffened, then carefully levered himself upward. Lea felt tears sting her eyes at his look of uncertainty. She raised her head enough to kiss him, letting her lips play lightly over his. 'You told me that you would never leave me alone ... but the fact is I can never let you go.'

Ken grinned, and then dropped his forehead to hers. 'I love you; Lea. Don't ever let me go.'

'I won't. I am too selfish and greedy, when it comes to you.'

He kissed her, long and sweet, 'I must tell you that I like your selfishness and greediness.'

'Do you still have the nightmares?' asked Ken as he rolled onto his back and drew up the covers.

'Sometimes ...,' whispered Lea drowsy with sleep. 'I haven't slept much in the past five days.'

'Come here,' said Ken as he positioned her head on his shoulder and held her close. 'Sleep tight, honey. I am right here.'

'Good night, baby,' mumbled Lea as she possessively laid her arm on his waist.

***

'Can you leave your clothes here?' asked Lea, softly as she stood at the bedroom door, watching Ken pack his bag.

'Why?' asked a confused Ken.

'I can atleast sleep in them,' said Lea shyly as she walked in and sat at the far end of the bed.

Ken leaned forward and ran his finger over her cheek. 'Shall I stay for a few more days, sweetie?'

'No, you can't, Ken. Mom will be all alone in Chicago,' said Lea as she looked at his neatly folded shirt on the bed. She ran her fingers over the stripes and whispered, 'I don't want to sleep alone at nights. The clothes will make me feel ...'

'I understand, Lea,' said Ken as he pulled Lea into a hug. 'And moreover, I won't have to carry any clothes, the next time I visit,' grinned Ken as he ruffled her hair.

'You speak as if I give you a chance to wear them,' said Lea as she looked at him with her a naughty gleam in her eyes.

'True. I bet no wife tires out her husband like you do.'

'Ah! Are you complaining, Mr. Harper?' asked Lea as she ran a finger across his cheek seductively.

'No, why would I? I am having the best time of my life.'

'Will you come next weekend?' asked Lea, hope glimmering in her heart.

'Hopefully, baby. But for that you will have to let me go now,' said Ken as he looked at his watch.

'I love you, Ken,' whispered Lea as she pressed herself against his hard, lean body.

'Love you too, Lea. Take care of yourself,' said Ken as he held her close. 'It isn't so bad, is it?' asked Ken as he held her close. 'I will be here next weekend. We can have fun like the old days.'

'I miss ...'

'... Texas,' completed Ken. 'I know and I miss it, too. Trust me, I will be back next weekend and till then, think about this,' said Ken and lowered her onto the mattress. His lips covered hers, his tongue pushing past her lips with a determination, a heat she couldn't deny. Her hands grasped his shoulders, her body arching to him as she groaned into the kiss. His lips ate at hers, his tongue plundering her mouth wickedly.

'You are mine, Lea,' murmured Ken against her mouth and placed a brief kiss on her forehead.

***

'Remember Michael?' asked Lea as she ran her soft fingers over Ken's calloused ones. 'I met him today at work,' said Lea as she snuggled against Ken's chest, watching the movie.

It had been a couple of months since Lea had been in New York. Ken visited her every weekend and upon his insistence, Lea purchased a TV and some furniture.

On hearing Michael's name, Ken moved away from her and withdrew his hand. 'That's nice,' said Ken, his voice devoid of all emotion.

'He is still the same, Ken ... A complete flirt and hitting on every single girl coming his way,' rambled on Lea, oblivious to the feelings that harbored through Ken. 'He was surprised that we got married. He ...'

'... Shall I cook dinner, tonight?' asked Ken as he stood up and walked towards the kitchen, without waiting for Lea's reply.

Ken rummaged through the refrigerator, aimlessly. Michael ... He still remembered the last time when he had lost his cool over this guy. He was still angry at himself for having treated Lea roughly that day. He mentally counted till 10 and closed the door of the fridge. He walked into the balcony and stood there looking at the lights across the buildings.

'Ken?' asked Lea softly as she stood behind him. Ken didn't seem to hear and stood looking at the city below. She moved forward and looped her arms around him, pressing herself against his back. He turned around and held Lea close. He stroked her back and dropped a kiss on her forehead.

'I am sorry,' said Lea remorsefully as she pulled away and looked at Ken. 'I didn't ...'

'... Shh ... Don't say anything,' said Ken as he kissed her cheek. 'It's not your fault.'

'Why don't you like him?' asked Lea as she looked at Ken and ran her fingers through his hair. 'I am just curious.'

'It's not about like, Lea. It's about trust. I don't trust that guy,' said Ken as he pulled Lea's hand into his and kissed her palm.

'Don't you trust me?' asked Lea as she cupped his face.

'I trust you, dammit ...,' replied Ken harshly making Lea flinch. She withdrew her hand when Ken caught it and pressed it against his heart. 'I am sorry. I didn't mean to shout. I trust you, sweetie. More than I trust myself. But ...'

'But what?' asked Lea, trying to understand his emotional turmoil.

'You know how it is. You stay here all alone ... Although you are smart,' said Ken as he gave her a smile and continued, 'but it is very easy to drift towards new ...'

'Even you stay alone, Ken. And what about Rebecca?' asked Lea as she moved away from Ken. 'She always seems to be around you. But I trust you or am I a fool to trust you, huh?'

'Rebecca is just a friend, Lea and that's why you trust me.'

'Oh yeah?' said Lea with a snide. 'She is just a friend but every time I call Mom your "just friend" seems to be hanging nearby.'

'Rebecca just drops in to say "Hello". And moreover, she is no match to Michael,' said Ken, unable to understand where the conversation was going.

'Have you seen the way Rebecca looks at you?' asked Lea, hands on her hips. 'As if she is starving and you are a juicy piece of meat,' remarked Lea, unable to control the sting in her voice.

'Lea ...,' said Ken, realizing that they were going nowhere with this argument. 'I don't care how she looks at me. She is nothing more than a friend. You, of all people, should know this.'

'Yeah, right,' said Lea with a huff. 'I need to remember that a girl and my husband are friends even if that girl has got the hots for my husband. Damn, clever wouldn't that be?'

'Baby ...'

'Don't baby me, Ken,' said Lea as Ken tried to pull her close. She moved away and continued, 'Do you know how irritating it is to know that she gets to see you every day, talk with you, see you smile, touch you and most importantly, be with you whenever she feels like? I wait for days and nights together, just to be with you for a couple of days. You don't get it ...'

'Lea,' said Ken and walked towards her. 'Even Michael gets the chance to do the same ... He even gets to flirt with you ...'

'Ken, Michael is not my friend and nor do we meet on a daily basis. Rebecca is in your home at any given time.'

'Our home, remember?' asked Ken as he tugged her hand into his.

'Yeah, our home. A home in which I never stayed for more than a few days but "just friends" drop in whenever they feel like,' said Lea as she jerked her hand away.

'Lea, you were the one who wanted to come here ...'

'Stop it, Ken,' screamed Lea as she looked at him. 'I wasn't the one who wanted to come here. I came here on your insistence,' said Lea poking a finger into his chest. 'And dammit, now you are the one who says that I ... that I wanted to come here ...,' faltered Lea and looked away, not wanting Ken to realize how badly hurt she was.

'I am sorry. I didn't mean to ...'

'You must be,' said Lea and walked away.

Ken looked at Lea's retreating form and ran a frustrated hand through his hair. Damn him! Now, she was pissed off. Ken looked at the vast expanse of the starry sky and whispered; "I wish you were here, Dad ..." He didn't understand what was wrong with him. Lea was his wife and she wasn't the kind of girl who took decisions in a huff. He knew that there wasn't anything going on between Lea and Michael but he couldn't stop being jealous. And now, Lea was angry with him because of Rebecca. They were friends and Lea knew this. He never flirted with Rebecca and he had no intention of doing it. What was wrong with them? Lea, on the other hand, spent time with that useless, flirt guy ... He shook his head in denial. He needed to put a stop to his imagination; otherwise he was going to drive himself crazy.

Ken walked into the bedroom and found Lea asleep on the bed. He sat down and looked at Lea's face. She seemed so serene and peaceful. He ran his fingers over her face and pushed back the wild strands of hair. I am sorry whispered Ken as he pressed his lips against hers. Lea whimpered and pulled his hand into hers. Ken had no go but to sleep beside her as she held onto his hand possessively. He wrapped his other arm around her waist and pulled her against his body. 

***

'No ...,' whimpered Lea, the moment Ken tried to loosen her hold and get up, the next morning.

'Baby, I think you forgot about last night,' sighed Ken as he thought about the events of last night.

'Shut up and let me sleep,' murmured Lea and curled into Ken, laying her head on his shoulder.

'Let's go on a honeymoon and spend some fruitful time loving each other,' said Ken huskily as he pulled Lea into her arms and claimed her mouth for a kiss.

'Ken ...,' moaned Lea as she pulled away and cupped his chin. 'You are getting out of hand day-by-day.'

'My wife is in my arms, naked except for a piece of shirt which barely reaches her thighs,' whispered Ken and cupped her breasts, 'which sane husband can keep his hands to himself?'

'Stop it, Ken,' said Lea as she tried to stop blushing. 'Go and get the groceries,' said Lea and tried to push him out of the bed.

'I won't, Mrs. Harper,' Ken chuckled, squeezing her bottom affectionately. 'I love you,' whispered Ken as he ran his finger across her lips.

'Ken ...,' said Lea as he started unbuttoning her shirt.

'Why don't I look as good as you do in my shirt?' asked Ken as he popped open the last button and dragged the shirt along her long and slender arms.

'Because you don't love this shirt as much as I do,' whispered Lea as she removed Ken's T-shirt and hurled it across the room. 'You can't have that T-shirt back,' she said raking her nails across his chest.

'I am going to run short of them,' said Ken as he hooked his fingers into the waistband of his trousers and tugged them down. His mouth found the soft skin of her neck, and he began nibbling a path to her ear. The room went a little fuzzy around her, and she struggled to keep up with the need for oxygen. She simply couldn't breathe. Her mouth rounded in shock, and he smiled arrogantly at her as he ran a finger over her wet and hot slit. He lifted her and positioned her on the pillows in the middle of the bed then followed her down, pressing his hard body to hers. He cupped her belly lovingly then slid his hand lower, finding her most sensitive flesh.

'Ken!' she gasped as she arched into him.

Hot, breathless and aching, her body tightened as his mouth closed around one hard nipple. A sob escaped her as his fingers brushed across the tiny bundle of nerves at her center.

'I want you so much,' he whispered. 'You can't imagine how much I miss you. We are so good together.'




Because I Still Love You Ch. 02



He covered her, his skin pressed to hers. He inserted one thigh between her legs and positioned himself. She wrapped her arms around him as he slowly entered her body. Even as he possessed her, he cradled her tenderly against him, taking care not to put too much of his weight on her small body. He took her to paradise, and in that moment, she felt like she was truly home. She belonged to him and him alone. Tears streamed down her cheeks, and only when she found completion in his arms did he shudder above her and slowly come to rest on her body. When he tried to move, she uttered a weak protest.

'I am too heavy,' he murmured as he settled beside her. He drew her into his arms and tucked her head underneath his chin. He ran a hand down her side and came to a rest over the curve of her hip. His fingers tightened possessively as she snuggled further into his chest.

For a long moment, they breathed in silence.

'I am sorry,' said Lea as Ken stroked her back. 'I didn't mean to say all that ...'

'Hey, it's alright,' said Ken. 'And may be you are right. I shouldn't allow Rebecca to drop in every now and then.'

'You don't have to do anything just because I want it. If you want her to be around, I guess, I will have to get used to it,' she said, her voice resigned and distant.

'Lea, you are my wife and there isn't a single thing that I would do to hurt you,' said Ken and dropped a kiss on her forehead. 'I shall ask Mom to let Rebecca know.'

'Stay back, Ken. Please ...,' pleaded Lea as she traced random patterns on his chest. 'I don't want you to go today, not after we fought so badly,' she said, her voice heavy.

'Don't worry, sweetie,' said Ken as he pressed a kiss on her forehead. 'We didn't fight that badly. And moreover, fights are healthy. It makes a relationship even stronger.'

'And who are you? The Relationship Expert?' asked Lea as she rose and looked down at him. 'How do you know this?'

'I read this somewhere. And there is one more thing,' said Ken as he pulled Lea closer, her lips just an inch away from his. 'A kiss a day keeps the divorce away,' he whispered and caught her mouth for a slow, long, deep-eating kiss.

'Ken ...,' moaned Lea as she ran her finger across his jaw. 'I think a laugh a day keeps the divorce away.'

'We laugh all the time, thanks to your wonderful sense of humor,' said Ken as he rolled Lea onto her back and looked into her eyes. 'A kiss is all we need.'

'Ken,' said Lea as he cupped her breast and sucked her nipple into his warm, hot mouth. 'Please ...'

'Please what?' asked Ken as he kissed her brow.

'Sex with you gets better and better every time,' whispered Lea and kissed his shoulder. 'And it makes impossible for me to let you go.'

'I am glad I can satisfy your needs,' said Ken as he smiled his devilishly, charming smile.

'Oh God! I must be sounding like a wanton whore,' said Lea as she sat up and clutched a nearby shirt to her naked bosom.

'Hey, what's wrong?' asked Ken as he tried to loosen the shirt from Lea's hold. 'Stop moving away,' said Ken as he pulled her into his arms.

'Let me go,' said Lea as she struggled to get away from Ken. 'I don't want you to think ...'

'Will you shut up?' thundered Ken as he rolled Lea onto her back and stretched on top of her, holding her in place. 'There are no secrets between us. We can share anything and everything, how stupid and how perverted it may sound. Dammit woman, you are my wife, not a stranger,' said Ken as he kissed her forehead. 'Shall I ask you something?'

Lea only nodded her head and ran her fingers across his perfectly chiseled face. She touched his soft lips and heard him gasp.

'Are you PMSing or something?' asked Ken, his lips moving against her fingers. She shivered as she felt his lips move against her fingers, making her remember how wonderful his mouth made her feel.

'Are you?' asked Ken as he looked into her sparkling eyes.

'Am I ... what?' asked Lea as she looked into his deep brown eyes, feeling the love that reflected in them.

'Why are you this hormonal? You fight with me, then have mind-blowing sex and now, you sound guilty. What's wrong?' asked Ken as he looked at Lea with curious eyes.

'I don't know,' said Lea and wore his shirt. 'Shall we dine outside, tonight?'

'Sure. Are you ok with me staying here for a few more days?' asked Ken as he buttoned her shirt.

'I am more than ok,' said Lea as she tied up her hair into a knot. 'I wish I could go back to Chicago,' mused Lea as she walked into the shower.

'I wish the same, Lea,' whispered Ken as he stared at the photograph of them on the nightstand.

***

'Thank you,' whispered Lea as she held onto Ken gently as he swayed them both to the gentle music in the restaurant.

'For what?' asked a surprised Ken as he looked down at her.

'For being the best husband in the world,' said Lea, her eyes sparkling with love.

'You are welcome,' said Ken as he kissed her forehead. 'Any plans for tonight?'

'Nope. Just to eat and then sleep in the wonderful and most comforting place on earth,' sighed Lea as she pressed herself close to him.

'I am not that comfortable, honey,' said Ken as he ran his hands over the arms.

'You don't know how warm, secure and loved I feel when you hold me. You are the only person who can make me forget everything else,' confessed Lea as she pulled Ken towards their table. 'I am hungry,' said Lea with a cute pout, making Ken smile.

After they sat down, Ken remarked, 'You still haven't changed,' and squeezed her hand. 'Still hungry all the time?'

'I am not hungry all the time,' argued Lea as she shot him a glare. 'Being with you drains most of my energy.'

'And why is that so?' asked Ken as he fed a morsel to Lea.

'Because you are insatiable,' said Lea as she ran her foot along his leg, under the table.

'Ah! Look who's talking. You are the one who is insatiable and right now, who's interested in playing footsie, huh?' asked Ken as he allowed Lea to have her share of fun.

'Stop talking and eat,' said Lea as she cut a small piece of meat and fed to Ken.

***

'May be this isn't such a good idea,' said Ken as he looked at their entwined hands.

They were at the airport. Lea insisted on coming to the airport to see Ken off. Ken had been reluctant at first, but Lea insisted on spending some more time with him. The couple of days that he had stayed back had been wonderful. It reminded him of the days when they were in Texas -- having fun, cooking food together, cracking stupid jokes and above all, the pleasure of being in each other's company.

'You think a lot,' muttered Lea as she laid her head on Ken's shoulder. 'I will miss you.'

'I know. And may be a little more this time,' said Ken as he withdrew his hand and wrapped his arms around her.

'I look forward to the weekends with you. I get through the week with the only hope that you will be there during the weekend,' said Lea as she looked at Ken. 'You don't know how much I appreciate your gesture,' whispered Lea softly and placed a peck on his cheek.

'Wanna come to Chicago this weekend?' asked Ken as he took her hands into his. 'Mom would love to have you for a couple of days.'

'Let me see,' said Lea as she withdrew her hand from his. 'I will have to check the work schedule.'

'Ok,' said Ken, a little disappointed.

***

Everything seemed to be working out fine between the love-birds. Ken kept visiting her every weekend. Two months turned into three and there seemed to be no problem between them whatsoever. Until ...

'Hello baby,' said Lea as she flipped off the light and settled on the bed.

'Hey sweetie,' said Ken as he snuggled deeper into the covers.

'Where are you?'

'In the bed wishing that you were beside me,' said Ken huskily.

'What are you wearing?' asked Lea as she cuddled a pillow close to her heart.

'Just a T-shirt and boxers. By the way, are you interested in phone sex?'

'I don't know,' said Lea as she thought about the preposition, 'Do you wanna know what I am wearing?'

'Sure, amuse your husband for a little while,' said Ken as he imagined Lea.

'Remember the lingerie which I purchased a month back?'

'Don't tell me you are wearing that lacy purple camisole.'

'I am,' said Lea and said seductively, 'Just a camisole.'

'Holy hell, woman,' cursed Ken as he imagined Lea in the skimpy nightwear. 'Is this a new way to torture your husband?'

'No, it isn't,' said Lea as she ran her finger over her clit. 'Isn't phone sex illegal?'

'I am sure most of what I want to do with you could be termed illegal,' he chuckled. 'Let us talk about it, Lea. Come on, tell me what you are doing to yourself? Are you using your fingers or a vibrator?' 

'I don't have a vibrator.'

'Dildo?' he whispered the words heatedly. 'Are you fucking yourself, Lea? Thinking about me, how much I want you?' 

'No!' She clenched the receiver in her hand, shaking her head despite the fact that her fingers had returned to her suddenly pulsing cunt. 

'I did like to see you in the bed, Lea, your legs spread, your hands touching your pretty cunt, fucking yourself.' 

'God, Ken,' she gasped. 'We're on the phone. This is indecent.' But her fingers were sinking into her cunt. 

'What are you thinking about, Lea?' His voice was dark, hot. 'I know you are touching yourself. I know the sound of your voice when you are ready to come, and you are ready to come, baby.'

'No ...' She tried to deny the obvious truth, but she couldn't keep her breath from catching as her fingers grazed her clit once again. 

'Lea,' he growled. 'Are you close, baby?' His voice deepened. 'If I were there, I did make you scream for it. I did fuck you so deep and hard you wouldn't be able to stop it. You did cum for me, Lea. Come for me now, baby. Let me hear you.' 

His voice was so deep, so sensual and aroused it caused her womb to contract almost painfully. Her body bowed, her breath catching on a near sob. He brought all her darkest desires, her deepest fantasies to the forefront of her mind. It terrified her. 

'Ken,' she whispered his name, wanting to deny him, but her fingers weren't listening as they stroked her clit, sank into her vagina, then moved back to repeat the action. She was so hot she could barely stand it. So horny she was on the verge of screaming for relief. 

'I am stroking my cock, Lea, listening to you lay there, imagining you touching your juicy cunt, wishing I were with you, watching you fuck yourself.' His words caused her to gasp, her womb to contract painfully, her hips to surge into her plunging fingers. She tossed her head.

'Damn, Lea, I want to fuck you,' he growled, his voice rough. 'I want to be buried so deep and hard inside you you'll never forget it again. Come for me, damn you. At least let me hear what I can't have. Fuck yourself Lea, give this to me. Those aren't your fingers buried in your pussy, it's my cock. You are mine and I am going to fuck you until you scream." 

Lea's orgasm ripped through her. She shuddered, whimpered, her body tightening to the point of pain before she felt her vagina explode. 

'Oh God, Ken,' she cried his name, then heard his hard exclamation of pleasure, knew he was coming, knew her climax had triggered his own as well. 

'Lea,' he groaned. 'Damn you, when I get hold of you I will fuck you until you can't walk.' Lea trembled at the erotic promise in his voice, the dark sensuality that terrified her, made her want to give him whatever he wanted. 

'This weekend you can ...,' said Lea softly, exhausted and replete from the pleasure.

'I am sorry,' whispered Ken, mentally kicking himself for forgetting the most important issue.

'What happened?'

'I have a meeting to attend this weekend. I thought of asking Mom to go but ...'

'... Can't you come for atleast a day?' asked Lea, her desperation visible in her voice.

'Lea, I am not sure and I don't want to build your hopes,' said Ken apologetically, knowing that Lea was going to be really disappointed. 'But I will be there next weekend.'

'Ok,' said Lea as she curled into the covers, as she imagined spending the weekend alone.

'Baby, please don't be sad,' pleaded Ken. 'I will make it up to you. I promise.'

'It's alright, Ken.'

'Why don't you come here? We can have fun like the old times.'

'I don't know. The work seems to be mounting here more and more.'

'Come on, Lea, surely there are people who can handle your work for a couple of days,' reasoned Ken. 'Come here, baby. I miss you.'

'I miss you too, Ken,' said Lea as she ran her fingers over their photo on the nightstand. 'But try to understand ...'

'What shall I understand?' asked Ken, hurt and disappointed. 'Shall I understand that I can move mountains to be with you, while you, on the other hand, don't want to move a few files and be here?'

'Ken,' said Lea, softly. 'I am sorry. But you don't know how it is over here ... There are people who ...'

'Lea, I miss you and I wanna be with you. Doesn't that count for something?'

'Had it been feasible, I would have come. Try to ...'

'It's late. May be we should sleep. Good night,' and with that Ken ended the call.

Lea looked at the phone and flung it to the far end of the bed. Dammit! Why didn't Ken understand how tight her schedule had become since last week? She rolled onto her back and looked at the ceiling above, reminiscing the days they had spent in Texas.

***

'What's wrong with us?' asked Ken as soon as Lea picked up the phone.

It was two weeks since Ken had been to New York. After their last call, the conversations hardly lasted a couple of minutes.

'Nothing,' said Lea as she plopped on the couch in her living room.

'I am coming tomorrow,' and before Lea could say anything he continued, 'And don't try to talk me out of it. Make sure you are free, otherwise I will have to tie you to the bed.'

'Ken, I would love to be tied to the bed,' said Lea seductively. 'I am busy, Ken. It's the middle of the week for God's sake.'

'I don't give a damn how busy you are,' said Ken as he ran a frustrated hand through his hair. 'I wanna be with my wife and I will make sure I am.'

Before Lea could reply, Ken shut the phone and looked at his Mom watching him.

'What's wrong, Ken?' asked Caitlyn as she looked at her harried son.

'Marriage troubles,' said Ken with a wry smile. 'Nothing that I can't handle,' he added.

'Want some help or advice?'

'No, Mom,' said Ken as he looked at his mother. 'I will let you know if situation turns out to be really bad.'

'Ken, Lea is a good girl,' said Caitlyn as she walked into the kitchen. 'She loves you. I have seen it in her eyes.'

'Yeah, Mom, I know,' whispered Ken as he looked at their wedding photo on the wall. 

***

'What are you doing here?' asked Lea as she opened her door.

'I told you I would be coming,' said Ken as he walked inside.

'But ...'

'You seem to be going outside,' said Ken as he looked at Lea. 'A date?' asked Ken with a cheesy smile.

'I wish it were a date,' winked Lea as she walked into the bedroom. 'It's the company annual party,' she said fixing her earrings. 'They insisted me to be present.'

'Ok,' said Ken as he walked into the living room.

"Feels damn good, doesn't it?" he asked himself as he sat on the couch and switched on the remote. He stared at the screen, lost in his thoughts. What was happening with them? What had changed between them? He still loved her and as far as he knew, she still loved him. Or maybe she didn't love him anymore? He shuddered as the last thought ran through his mind. Maybe things were bound to change when people get married. Every time he took a step to move forward, Lea seemed to be taking 10 steps back. 

Lea walked into the living room and settled on the couch beside Ken. She glanced at the screen cursorily and looked at the watch. She looked at Ken who was staring at the screen blankly, oblivious to her presence. She switched off the television and moved closer to him.

'Ken?' she asked but Ken didn't seem to hear.

She knew that Ken was worried about their future. But she had no go but to attend the party. Her boss had insisted that she come and she couldn't deny him. She knew that Ken would be coming and she wanted to spend quality time with him. But fate had something else planned for them ...

'Ken,' said Lea as she laid her hand on his shoulder. 'How do I look?' she asked.

Ken was pulled out of his reverie and looked at his angel sitting beside him. She seemed to be looking at him apprehensively, as if waiting for an answer. But he didn't know the question.

'Sorry, what did you ask?' asked Ken as he turned towards her.

Lea got up and stood before him. 'How do I look?' she asked as she twirled around.

Wearing a burgundy off-shoulder long gown, Lea looked hot. Her hair was knotted into a French bun and a few wild strands had escaped, which teased her long slender neck. The pearl necklace which she wore only accentuated her features. Her blue sparkling eyes were more prominent, thanks to the mascara. Her lips taunted him as they looked even more kissable due to the lip gloss. Her strappy silver shoes made her look elegant and graceful. Ken looked at his wife, who seemed to be intently waiting for his opinion.

'Pretty and beautiful, as usual,' said Ken and patted at the empty space beside him. 'Come here.'

'Ken, don't do ...' and before Lea could complete, Ken pulled her into his arms and held her close, inhaling her scent.

'Don't do what?' asked Ken huskily as he ran his fingers across her collarbone, eliciting goose-bumps. 

'Baby, don't spoil my hair. It took me an hour to set it right,' she said as she snuggled closer to Ken, absorbing his heat. 'I gotta go, baby,' whispered Lea as she looked at the watch.

'Who is your man for the evening?' asked Ken as he watched Lea rush into the bedroom to check her appearance one last time.

'I wanted to go alone, but ...'

'But?' prompted Ken as he leaned against the door frame and waited for Lea's answer.

'Michael asked me if I wanted to go with him,' said Lea as she walked into the living room. 'It seems like he ran short of his share of women.'

'And you agreed to go. Just like that?' asked Ken, trying to control his temper.

'Come on, Ken,' said Lea as she stood before him, her hands on her hips. 'Be a sport and let me have fun.'

'Yeah, right,' said Ken as he walked towards the couch and settled down. 'Have fun,' he said and gave her a small wave.

'I will try to be back soon,' said Lea as she walked towards the door. 'The food is in the kitchen. Love you,' and with that she was gone.

Be a sport, my foot muttered Ken as he looked at the screen. His wife was spending the evening with another guy and he was supposed to be a sport. He laid back against the couch and let the exhaustion take over. 

***

Ken woke up to the sensation of something warm and smooth glide over his cock. Maybe he was dreaming. Then he felt a hand cup his balls and stroke them. He opened his eyes to the most beautiful sight. Lea was on her knees before him, his cock in her mouth, her hand stroking his testicles. He ran his hand over her face and stroked her jaw. She was wearing his shirt and he knew that she was naked beneath it.

'Lea ...,' moaned Ken as she grazed his cock with her teeth. 'Come here,' he said as he tried to pull her up.

Lea shook her head and resumed torturing Ken. Oh hell, his girl had a wonderful mouth. She licked him, and then took him into her mouth, her hand and her lips working in tandem as she built up a rhythm, her tongue swirling around the aching, engorged head, catching him right where he was most sensitive. 

'Oh, angel. God, yeah!' He muttered something incoherent, caught her hair, and held it aside so that he could watch, the sight of her devouring him nearly sending him over the edge. 




Because I Still Love You Ch. 02



Ken fought to hold his hips still, but she seemed to understand what he needed, going faster, increasing the pressure, until his body shook, his groin throbbing, the ache almost unbearable. Then his balls drew tight and ...

'Yes, Lea. Baby. I am going to come now. Take me, Lea.' He powered in, his moan deep and hard as his cock suddenly exploded. Thick and hot, his seed shot into her mouth as his body jerked with the pleasure she knew was washing over him. She continued to suckle Ken's flesh, drawing the last drop of his tangy seed from the tip as he stroked her hair.

'Perfect.' Ken pulled back from her, his cock still hard, leaving her suckling mouth reluctantly.

Perspiration coated his body. His eyes were dark, his face flushed, his lips heavy with sensuality as his hands went to her breasts. She took his face between her palms, forced him to meet her gaze.

'I love you, Mr. Ken Harper. I am sorry I haven't been a good wife to you.' Ken tried to speak but Lea placed a finger on his lips and continued, 'Whatever happened in the past two weeks can't be undone but I will try everything possible to be with you and love you in the way, you deserve to be loved.'

Breath left Ken's lungs in a rush. He stared at her, wondering if he was dreaming. 'I am not worth ...'

'We'll take it slow.' She drew his face down and kissed him. 'One day at a time.' She kissed him again. 'One hour at a time.' Again she kissed him. 'One kiss at a time.' Ken closed his eyes, gave himself over to her kisses, fairly certain he was too dead inside, too empty, too wrung out for what she seemed to have in mind. But her mouth was sweet, her tongue insistent.

Heat. A spark. Desire kindled.

Ken opened his mouth to her, let her shape the kiss, her lips never leaving his, even when her clever hand slid to his cock and stroked him to life. Then she shrugged out of the shirt, climbed onto his lap, and settled herself over him, her gaze holding his as she took him inside her. Mingled moans. Burning need.

Ken's heart pounded, from desire, life surging hot and strong through his veins, his breathing hard and fast, and every nerve ending in his body alive. His tripping pulse. Her cries. A quicksilver rush of bliss. And Ken was reborn inside her. She sank against him, out of breath, boneless, and he held her, kissing her hair, stroking the silk of her skin, breathing her scent. Then he lifted her into his arms, carried her to the bed, lay down beside her -- and fell into a deep, dreamless sleep.

***

Ken woke the next morning to find Lea curled up against him, her head resting on his chest, one of her legs tucked between his. The sheets were tangled around their legs, leaving the creamy curve of her hip bare. He watched her sleep, his body relaxed and his mind blissfully empty.

A part of him hated himself for allowing her a free rein and giving her a chance to do as she pleased. This time he had decided to have a talk with her, give her a stern warning. But Lea wanted him, loved him; her love evident in her eyes, the way in which she had looked at him, when she caught his face and spoke the words.

He stroked her hair, made room for her when she snuggled deeper into his chest, cherishing the feel of her soft body against his. And for a moment he let himself imagine that this was how everyday of his life began if they stayed together -- with her sleeping naked beside him, the scent of sex still lingering on their skin, a feeling of contentment inside him. They did get up, make love in the shower, have breakfast together, and kiss each other goodbye, the home of food getting them through the day. 

Lea mumbled something in her sleep and laid her hand possessively over his waist. He looked down at her beautiful face, a tangled knot of emotions swelling inside his chest -- longing, protectiveness, doubt, possessiveness and love. He held her tighter, the feel of her precious. And for a time, he lay there, listening to her breathe, inhaling the stillness, wishing he could stay like this forever.

***

Lea woke to the delicious feeling of kisses trailing down her back, Ken's big hand caressing the bare curve of her hip. 'Mmm.'

'You are finally awake.' His hand slid in delicious circles upwards along her side and around front to cup her breast. His skilled finger teased her nipple, pinched it, and tugged it, his touch sending sparks deep into her belly. 'Good.'

She could smell on his minty breath that he had already been up and had brushed his teeth. She wanted to do the same. Reluctantly, she drew away. 'Hold that thought.'

She climbed out of bed, walked naked into the beautiful marble bathroom, the tiles cool against her feet. She grabbed her toothbrush and quickly brushed, holding her hair back as she rinsed her mouth. She finished, set her toothbrush aside, the turned towards the door -- and froze. 

Ken, naked, stood in the doorway, his gaze sliding intimately over her, his erection standing against his belly, his testicles hanging full and heavy beneath. There was something deeply primal about his aroused body, about the heat in his eyes, about the way he watched her.

Ken walked slowly towards her. 'Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?'

Lea met him halfway, rose on her tiptoes, and kissed him, her arms sliding behind his neck. He groaned, his tongue greeting hers. And then she got an idea -- a silly, naughty, exciting idea.

Suppressing her own laughter, she deliberately turned them in a slow motion waltz until her back was towards the door. Slowly, she stepped back from him, smiled up at him from beneath her eyelashes -- then turned and ran. She dashed towards the bed, jumped in, and scuttled to the far side, looking back to find him watching her, a predatory gleam in his eyes now. Excitement shivered through her, the thrill of being pursued making her pulse trip.

'Where do you think you are going?' asked Ken as he walked in slow strides towards her, his muscles shifting. 'You can't get away from me. You know that, don't you?'

Quashing the giggle that welled up inside her, she drew back against the headboard, curling her legs beneath her, covering her bare breasts with her hands, her heart pounding harder as he drew near.

'Why are you covering yourself?' Ken stopped at the edge of the bed. 'I am going to see it all, touch it all, tongue it all and taste it all. I am going to do whatever I want with your sweet body, and there's nothing you can do to stop me.'

Then he lowered himself on one knew on the mattress. With a squeal, Lea leapt from the bed, but she didn't make it far. A strong arm caught her around her waist and drew her back onto the bed. She fought just hard enough to make him use his strength, turning onto her belly, trying to crawl away.

'You think you will stop me?' Ken laughed -- a dark masculine sound. 'Save your strength, sweetie. You are going to need it.'

His weight pinned her to the bed. Powerful thighs pressed against her hips as he straddled her from behind, forcing her legs tightly together. He caught her wrists, drew her arms behind her back, one of his hands holding them there while the other gasped one of her buttocks, spreading her, exposing her to his view.

It was a position of utter submission, one that gave him total power over her and left her no means to resist. But she wasn't willing to surrender yet. She twisted and writhed, the thrill of being overpowered more arousing than she could have imagined. Then she felt the head of his cock rub between her labia and thrust deep, his groan drowning out the sound of her whimper.

With her legs held together like this, there seemed to be no room inside her. She could feel every inch of his steel-hard cock as he moved, from the engorged head that almost touched her cervix, to the thick base that stretched and stroked her sensitive entrance, to the taut skin of his testicles as they brushed her labia.

Lea moaned, bit a pillow; lost in the heat of these intense, new sensations. She had never believed all that G-spot hype, never believed that a woman could climax through penetration alone. But now she knew she had been wrong, his thrusts caressing some secret place inside her, the ache unbearable and sweet. She whimpered and panted into the pillow, desperate for release. She wanted to raise her bottom, to spread her legs, to do something to bring the sweet torment to an end, but she didn't move. Helpless to do anything but take him, she was left hanging on the edge of an orgasm that seemed to hiver just beyond her reach.

Then, when it seemed she could take no more, the tension inside her drew to its full height like a great shimmering wave and crashed over her, carrying her helplessly along as it surged through her, drowning her in pleasure. She cried out, arching back, Ken's strokes making her pleasure last until she lay, weak and panting, her face against a pillow.

Ken released her wrists and withdrew from her, pressing kisses along her back. Then gently he turned her onto her back, catching her legs and settling himself between them. It was then she realized he hadn't come yet, his erection lying hard against her. He smoothed the hair off her face, his gaze travelling over her features. For a moment, she thought he had something to tell her. But when at last he spoke, it was only to say her name. 'Lea'

He adjusted his hips, nudged himself slowly inside her, and the pleasure began again. But this time, he took it slowly, his gaze never leaving her face, as he brought her to a second shattering climax, his groans mingling with her cries as he at last claimed his own release.

***

Afterward, they took a long, hot shower together, getting water all over the floor, Ken feeling more alive and more at peace with himself. While Lea dressed and made breakfast, he checked with his mother, just to make sure that everything was hunky-dory and just, in case his mother needed him. He informed her that he would be back in a couple of days and in case, there was an emergency, she was to inform him ASAP.

Ken found Lea setting the table, the scent of her cooking making his mouth water. She was wearing a short denim skirt that showed off her long legs, together with a lacy V-neck tank top that made the most of her beautiful breasts, her dark hair still damp, and her sweet face free of make-up. She glanced up and smiled, those adorable dimples appearing in her cheeks.

'Hungry?' she asked, as she took her fill of him.

He held her gaze, grinned. 'Starving.'

Her cheeks flushed pink. 'I know you like eggs Benedict. I made pancakes and fresh coffee.'

'Mmm.' He sat, unable to take his gaze off her while she poured the coffee then sat across from him.

Ken took a bite of the eggs and another. 'Delicious.'

She smiled, pleased at his compliment. 'I am glad you like it.'

Ken washed the last bite of eggs down with a gulp of strong black coffee, and then walked towards Lea. He sat down in the chair adjacent to her, drew his chair closer to hers. Lea looked at him, curious. He tugged Lea's hand into his and looked into her sparkling blue eyes. 'Shall I feed you?' he asked, reaching for the fork.

'Ken, I can eat ...,' But before she could complete, Ken placed a finger on her lips, silencing her. 

'Come here,' he said as he maneuvered Lea into his lap and forked a small piece of the egg. 'Here,' he said as he brought the fork closer to her mouth.

Lea opened her mouth and took the bite, loving the attention which Ken showered on her. She ran her fingers through his hair, relishing the feel of it. 'You will make a really good father,' said Lea as Ken fed her another morsel.

Ken looked at her, bewildered by her sudden declaration. He grinned as he looked at Lea, who seemed to be waiting for his reaction. 'Is this your way of telling me that we should try for kids or are you already ...?'

He allowed the question to hang in the air. Lea seemed to be taking her time in considering her options and finally spoke.

'It's not my way of telling you anything, mister. I just have a gut feeling that you will make an excellent father. I want more time with you. Kids can wait and by the way, we are too young to be have kids, aren't we?' she asked, cocking her head and flashing him a smile.

'Yes, we are,' said Ken with his crooked smile. 'Come back to Chicago with me,' he said, taking her hand into his. 'I can't stay away from you anymore. '

'Ken, I can't leave everything and come with you,' said Lea as she got up and sat on the chair adjacent to his. 'I have a career here. I can't throw it away. I worked really hard to be, where I am right now. And I would never ever give it up.'

'Lea ...,' said Ken softly as he ran his finger over her cheek. 'I understand, baby. But can't you come home this weekend? You aren't that busy, are you?'

'I am busy, Ken. Just because I am here with you, right now, doesn't mean that I am free.' She got up and started clearing the dishes. 

Ken looked at Lea who seemed to be at ease with her decision. She didn't want to leave New York, come what may. It looked like he was the only one who wanted to be with her ... 

'May be we should have never married,' said Ken as he looked at Lea. 'I think it would have been much better that way.'

'What the hell, Ken? What's wrong with you?' asked Lea as she stood before him, her eyes dark with anger.

'What's wrong with you, Lea?' asked Ken as he stood before her. 'You are not my Lea; you are not the girl whom I loved. My Lea always wanted to be with me. You don't even want to come home for a couple of days.'

'I am busy, Ken. Try to ...'

'Try to what, Lea?' flared Ken. 'Try to understand that you are busy with your damn office or try to understand that you have time to go and attend stupid parties but are too busy to spend a couple of days with your husband? What shall I understand, dammit?'

'Ken ...it's not like that ...' said Lea as she tried to move closer.

'No, stay where you are,' said Ken and moved back a few steps. 'Don't you dare use your seductive charms and dodge the issue.'

'Ken, that's enough,' said Lea, holding onto her temper.

'No, it's not enough, baby,' said Ken, his voice thick with sarcasm. 'You don't love me. I was a fool to believe that you loved me. You need me only to satisfy your sexual needs and nothing else. Do you think I am your boy toy? I am your husband, Lea. And don't you fucking forget this.' Ken shot her one glance and walked towards the front door.

He paused and turned around, making sure she knew how serious he was. 'Don't try to call me. If you want to be my wife and my Lea, it's high time that you moved your ass home. Take care,' and with that he opened the door, walked out and slammed the door shut.

***

To be continued ...

Feedback and comments are welcome.



Because I Still Love You Ch. 03



This is the third and the last part of the three part series "Because I Still Love You" ... 

***

You don't love me? Sexual needs? Boy toy?

Lea looked at the closed door and sank into the chair. She was hurt at the accusations that Ken hurled at her. She never wanted him as just a fuck-buddy. She needed him in every way possible -- as a friend, as a partner, as a husband and above all as a soul mate with whom she could share everything and anything. She kept looking at the closed door, hoping and praying that Ken would return back. She never meant to hurt him. He was everything she had ever wanted. And now ... Tears welled up in her eyes as she realized that may be she had lost him and she couldn't blame a third person. She was too immersed in her job and life in New York that she ignored the guy, who had been her rock support. He was only one who had been there for her -- always and anytime she needed him. 

Lea couldn't stay in the apartment anymore. The last part of their conversation kept on playing in her head. She walked towards the nearest park and sat down on one of the benches. The diamond still sparkled on her finger, reminding her of the day Ken had proposed to her. She ran her finger over the stone and tried to stop the tears from spilling down her cheeks.

'Hey, beautiful. What a pleasant surprise,' exclaimed Michael as he sat down beside her.

Lea was too engrossed in her thoughts that she didn't realize Michael's presence.

'Are you alright?' asked Michael as he laid his hand on her shoulder.

Lea flinched at his touch and moved away from him. 'Michael, what are you doing here?' asked Lea as she tried to wipe away her tears.

'I like this park,' said Michael as he looked around. 'Lots of hot chicks.'

'Hmm ... I see,' said Lea, not really interested in a conversation.

'It's a good thing that I found you,' said Michael as he ran his gaze over her body. 'Where is that husband of yours?'

'Ken left for Chicago today,' she said unemotionally, not wanting him to know her plight.

'Left? Had I been your husband, I wouldn't have let you out of the bed,' he said as he eyed her curiously.

'I gotta go,' said Lea as she stood up and started walking away.

'See you in office tomorrow,' remarked Michael as he kept ogling at her retreating form. 

What a guy thought Lea as she walked back towards her home. She couldn't believe that she had gone to the party with this guy. Michael kept ogling at her, his gaze making her feel cheap and derogatory. Ken had always been right about Michael. Only she had been a fool to believe that Michael was good enough to be trusted. She wanted to be in Ken's arms. She missed him and the encounter with Michael only emphasized this fact. She wished that she hadn't gone to the party that night, leaving Ken behind. As soon as she left the house that evening, she knew that she had made the biggest mistake of her life. And her decision that night had left her all alone ...

She walked back into the empty house, wishing that she had the time to undo the past. She could feel Ken's presence everywhere in the house. The bed was still unmade and the smell of sex still lingered in the air. She crept onto the bed and hugged the pillow close, absorbing Ken's scent on the pillow. She closed her eyes and allowed sleep to take over.

***

Lea stood outside the door of Ken's house. She placed her suitcase near the door and rang the door-bell. She didn't know what to talk and how to react if Ken opened the door. The last conversation between them had been 3 weeks back. Ken had asked her not to call him up and she had tried her level best to respect his wishes. There were times when she missed him and all she wanted to do was listen to his voice, but every time she picked up the phone, she remembered his last words ...

'Lea?' asked Caitlyn as she opened the door. 'Is that really you?'

'Mom,' said Lea a she looked at Ken's mother before her. 'I am so glad to meet you,' she said as she wrapped her arms around Caitlyn and squeezed her.

'Come on in,' said Caitlyn as she ushered Lea into the living room.

Lea tugged the heavy suitcase inside and left it near the door. 'Haven't you been eating well?' asked Caitlyn as she ran her gaze along Lea's thinned out body. 'What's wrong, honey?' 

Lea sat down on the couch and looked at Caitlyn, apprehensively. 'Did Ken talk to you?'

'About what?' asked Caitlyn as she sat beside Lea and took Lea's hand into hers. 'What happened, Lea?' she asked softly as she stroked her hand.

'Where is Ken?' asked Lea as she looked around.

'Ken and Rebecca have gone to the store to get the groceries. Now, tell me, Lea, why are you upset?'

'Am I that obvious, Mom?' asked Lea, with a wry smile.

'You are the daughter that I never had. You can share anything with me, child. You know that, don't you?' asked Caitlyn, soothingly as she leaned against the couch and looked at Lea.

'Have I lost him?' asked Lea, voicing her most important concern.

'Ken loves you Lea. I don't know what happened between the two of you,' said Caitlyn as she walked into the kitchen. Lea followed her. 'But since the day, he came back from New York, he isn't himself. He doesn't eat much, he hardly talks and he spends most of the time going through your photos. Coffee?'

Lea only nodded her head and whispered, 'I screwed up really bad, Mom. I didn't mean to hurt him. I love him. I always have ...'

'I know, Lea,' said Caitlyn as she handed Lea, the cup of coffee. 'And that is why you are here.'

'I left the job in New York,' confessed Lea as she looked at Caitlyn. 'I didn't want to stay alone. The thought of losing Ken ...' 

Her voice shook as tears welled up in her eyes, threatening to spill any moment. She placed the cup on the nearest counter and tried to walk away, when she felt Caitlyn's hand on her shoulder. She threw her arms around the elder lady and sobbed her heart out. Caitlyn stroked Lea's back as she allowed Lea to let out her grief.

'It's gonna be fine, Lea,' said Caitlyn, finally speaking up. 'Everything will work out fine.' She said as she ruffled her hair and placed a kiss on her forehead. 'Trust me,' she said as she gave Lea one last squeeze.

'I am sorry, Mom. I didn't turn out to be a very good wife,' said Lea as she looked at Caitlyn, her voice remorseful. 

'You have been a wonderful daughter, Lea,' said Caitlyn as she patted Lea's cheek. 'Go and take some rest, honey. You must be tired.'

Lea turned and started walking towards the guest room, when she heard Caitlyn's voice. 'Go and sleep in Ken's room. I will let him know, once he comes back.'

'But ...'

'Do as I say, Lea. Don't argue with your mother,' said Caitlyn with a smile as she pushed Lea into Ken's room.

Ken's room ... It still looked the same. His bed was unmade, photos strewn across the floor, magazines lying on the bed, her photo on the nightstand. Lea cleaned up the room, arranging the magazines in the shelf and arranging all the photos into a photo album. She walked over to the settee in the corner and settled on it, grabbing the blanket from the bed. She didn't want to sleep on the bed, not when Ken wasn't beside her. She looked at the photo of their wedding on the wall and wondered if they could again be a happy couple.

***

Ken walked into the house, his arms full of bags. He placed the bags on the floor and stumbled against a suitcase. Lea's suitcase ... Was she here? His heart pounded in his chest as he scanned the entire living room for her presence. He walked into the guest bedroom but found it empty. That only left one place ... his bedroom ... their bedroom.

He tiptoed into the bedroom, not wanting to wake her up if she was sleeping. He found the bed empty and for a brief second, he wondered if he had imagined her suitcase outside. But then he caught her in the corner, asleep on the settee. A blanket covering her and she looked so ... tired, exhausted, dull and she looked sad, lost. Was she suffering as much as he? He moved inside the bedroom and watched her beautiful, angelic face. Her lips were parted, her breathing deep and even, her dark hair fanned out behind her. He then noticed the tearstains on her cheeks. Oh hell!

***

Lea felt someone's gaze burning into her skin. She fluttered her eyes open only to find Ken standing before her. She got up and stood before him, not knowing what to say. She looked at him and found him looking surprised and happy? She offered him a half-smile and waited for his response.

'How are you?' asked Ken breaking the silence.

'I am fine. What about you?' asked Lea as she tucked her hair behind her ear.

'I am good. How's work? '

'I don't know. I left the job,' whispered Lea and looked away.

'Why? I thought you wanted the job,' said Ken as he folded his arms and waited for Lea's reply.

'Not as much as I wanted my husband,' said Lea, her eyes misty.

'Ok,' said Ken nonchalantly. 'Wanna eat something?' asked Ken as he shrugged out of his jacket.

Lea only nodded her head. Ken walked out of the bedroom and into the kitchen. Lea followed behind him, looping her arms around herself.

'Hop onto the counter,' said Ken as he rummaged through the cabinets. 'I will dish something out.'

'Thanks,' said Lea and allowed her eyes to follow Ken's every move.

She admired Ken as he chopped the onions. His muscles flexed with each move. She still remembered the days when Ken used to work in the kitchen. She used to ogle blatantly, drooling over his well toned body. Seeing Ken after so many weeks, made her realize how much she had missed him. He looked haggard and worn-out. And as Caitlyn had remarked, it didn't look like he was eating much. She lowered her eyes, the moment Ken raised his head and turned towards her. She hung her head down and looked at her bare feet, not wanting to meet his gaze. 

'You aren't normally this silent,' said Ken as he wiped his hands on the sides of his jeans. 'Will a toast and omlette do?'

'Yes,' whispered Lea softly as she fidgeted with her shirt.

'Wanna help?' asked Ken as he kept staring at her.

'Ok,' said Lea as she got down from the counter. She reached for the loaf of bread and started cutting the slices. 'How many?' she asked, not looking at him.

'Four will do,' said Ken as he observed her.

She cut the slices and popped them into the toaster. She waited for them to pop out. Ken whipped the eggs and the vegetables. He poured the mixture into the frying pan.

'I will do the rest,' said Ken as he flipped the omlette. 'Go and sit in the living room. I will be right there.'

Lea walked away mechanically and sat on the couch. She looked around. The house was still the same. She curled her feet underneath her and reached for the remote. She switched on the television and flipped through the channels. 

'Here you go,' said Ken as he handed her a plate.

'Thanks,' said Lea as she took the plate. She looked at the food wearily. She poked around the toast, taking small bites, mechanically chewing the food. Once she completed half of the toast, she got up and walked into the kitchen.

'Why aren't you eating well?' asked Ken as he leaned against the entrance of the kitchen.

'I am eating fine,' whispered Lea as she dumped the leftovers into the dustbin. After washing the plate, she wiped it clean and placed it on the counter.

'Where is Mom?' she asked as she looked around.

'Rebecca is getting married next week. Mom went on a shopping trip with her.'

'Oh! That's nice,' said Lea as she offered him a smile.

'Take some rest, Lea. You look tired,' said Ken as he looked at her warmly.

'Ok,' said Lea as she walked towards the guest room. 'I shall take the guest room. I don't want to ...'

'... You can sleep in my room. The bed is big enough for two people,' chuckled Ken.

Lea looked at him, watching him smile. 'Can I hug you?' she blurted out.

'Come here,' said Ken as he held out his hand.

Lea walked slowly, uncertain of Ken's reaction. Ken swept her into his arms and held her close. She wrapped her arms around him and squeezed him. He stroked her hair and allowed her to hold him.

'I missed you so much,' whispered Lea and absorbed the feeling of being in his arms.

After what felt like an eternity, Lea pulled back and turned away, not wanting to meet his gaze. She didn't know if she could bear the hatred in his eyes or the love in his eyes. She walked towards Ken's bedroom and sat on the bed. She ran her fingers over their photo on the nightstand. Their conversation had been no short of a disaster. The one line answers, the uncomfortable feeling and the invisible barrier that seemed to be growing between them were too much for Lea to bear. Ken didn't look pleased with her decision to move back to Chicago. Had she made a mistake by coming back to Chicago? She curled onto her side and closed her eyes, closing her mind from all the emotional turmoil.

Sometime later, she felt a strong possessive arm around her waist and she being pulled closer. She heard Ken whisper something inaudible. He stroked her hair and held her close. She was too tired to protest or voice her opinion. She drifted off again, shutting out all the doubts and questions in her mind.

***

'What are you doing this Friday night?' asked Lea as she plopped down on the couch beside Ken.

'Nothing much,' replied Ken, giving her a cursory glance. He went back to the file that he had been reading.

'Shall we go on a date?'

'A date?' asked Ken as he looked at Lea. 'But why?'

'Come on, Ken. Don't you know why people go on a date?' she asked with a smile, making his heart swell. 'You can afford to spend a couple of hours with me, can't you?'

'Ok, Friday night it is,' he said and went back to his file.

'I won't bite, I promise,' she said with a wink and sashayed into the kitchen.

Ken only shook his head. He tried to stifle his smile as he looked at Lea, who seemed to be damn happy as if she was been given the most precious thing in the world. What was wrong with him? He was supposed to be angry with her ... But Lea made it impossible. It had been a week since she had been in Chicago and everyday she kept melting the barriers that he had constructed between them. She kept on finding new ways to make him love her even more. The way, in which her eyes sparkled when she talked with him, her smile which she seemed to have reserved only for his sake and the casual way in which she touched him during a conversation ... How could he be angry with her? 

***

'What are you thinking about?' asked Lea as she gazed fondly into his eyes.

'You,' replied Ken as he pulled her closer and swayed to the music.

'Me?' asked Lea, surprised by his sudden confession. 'What about me?'

'Everything ...,' whispered Ken as he bent and whispered against her ear. 'Why are we here, Lea?'

'I wanted some alone time with you,' murmured Lea and pulled apart.

She tugged him towards their table. After placing their order, Lea looked at Ken, gauzing his reaction.

'Do you want to know about the party?'

'What party?' asked a confused Ken.

'The party to which I went with Michael,' said Lea, not wanting to bring Michael's name up.

'Is there something that I should know?' asked Ken, sternly.

'I don't know, Ken,' said Lea softly, 'I feel that you deserve to know the truth.'

'Ok,' said Ken, a little apprehensive about Lea's tone. 'I am all ears.'

Just then their food arrived. Lea poked at her food, almost reluctant to eat.

'Here,' said Ken as he offered her a small bite.

'Thanks,' said Lea and she accepted the bite.

'You can talk, Lea,' said Ken as he offered her another bite. 'I will feed you,' he grinned.

Lea just gave him a faint smile and took his hand into hers.

'I didn't sleep with Michael,' said Lea as she looked at Ken, wondering if he wanted to know that.

'Hey, I didn't ask you that?' asked Ken as he ran his finger across her jaw. 'I never said you cheated on me. I know you aren't that kind of a girl, sweetie.'

'I just wanted you to know,' said Lea as she caught his hand from her face and kissed it. 'I thought that ... that may be you were thinking that I ...'

'No ...' said Ken as he pulled his chair closer to hers. 'You are too innocent to cheat on me, Lea. Of all people, I know this.'

Lea acknowledged his statement with a smile. 'I am happy that you trust me.'

'I always trust you, Lea. I always will. There is no doubt about it. But it isn't about trust, honey?'

'It isn't?' asked Lea as she looked at Ken.

'No, it isn't. I felt like you didn't want me in your life. Remember, I was the one who used to come every weekend, just to spend a couple of days with you. I thought that maybe you weren't interested in me anymore.'

'You are my husband,' defended Lea appalled at Ken's statements. 'You are the only guy I am interested in and I will always be interested in.'

'We are not eating,' chuckled Ken as he offered her another bite. 'You have thinned out a lot, baby.'

'Do you want me here, Ken?' asked Lea, a little apprehensive about his reply.

'Do you want to be here?' asked Ken as he looked into her eyes.

'Yes,' said Lea as she gulped down the glass of water, needing courage of some sort. 'Why would I leave my job and come here if I didn't want to be here?'

'Hmm ... You have a point there,' said Ken and continued. 'Mom is happy to have you back.'

'What about you?'

'I don't mind having you,' said Ken as a matter-of-fact.

'Oh! I see,' said Lea, as rage stirred up in her. 'So, my presence or absence doesn't bother you ... Good to know that, Mr. Harper,' said Lea as she stood up.

'Lea ...,' said Ken as he pulled her back into her chair. 'I didn't mean that ...'

'Leave me,' said Lea as she snatched her hand back, 'I have got work to do.'

'What work?' asked Ken as he tugged Lea's hand into his. 'I think your forgot that you left your job.'

'It seems like I will have to find a new one,' said Lea as she stood and started to walk.

'Wait a minute, dammit,' said Ken as he pulled her back and hauled her into his arms. 'Since when did you become so serious?' he said as he wrapped his arms around her.

'Ken, let me go,' muttered Lea as she struggled against Ken. 'We are in a restaurant for God's sake. There are people around us ...'

'Stop whining, will you?' said Ken softly as he rocked her gently. 'Let me hold you for a few seconds,' whispered Ken against her ear.

'We still have issues to sort out. I won't let you dodge ...'

'... Shh. I missed you, sweetie,' said Ken as he led them to their seats. He cupped her face in his hands, making sure he could meet her gaze.

'Ken ..., not now,' said Lea as she looked away. 

'Hey, now don't start crying,' chided Ken playfully as he ran his thumb over her cheek. 'I can't handle it when you cry.'

'I won't,' said Lea with a smile, making Ken's heart swell with warmth. 

'I missed your smile,' confessed Ken, placing his finger in her dimple. 'And I missed your dimple too.'

'I won't sleep with you,' said Lea, forcing Ken to reel back a little.

'Where did that come from?' asked Ken as he looked at Lea, who seemed to be serious.

'I won't use you for sex. I want you to believe that I want you as more than just my boy toy,' said Lea as she pulled back a little. 'I will make sure that you know how much I love you and how much I want to be with you -- as a person, as a friend and above all, as a soul mate. So, no getting into the sack until my husband realizes that I want him to be a part of my life.'

Ken looked at her, astonished and bewildered at her statement. She seemed quite serious about the proposition and even he wanted to give it a try.

'Lea, all this is not necessary ...'

'It is necessary, Ken. I won't let you think that I love you only because you are amazing in bed. I love you as a person, accepting all your flaws.'




Because I Still Love You Ch. 03



'So you think I am amazing in bed?' grinned Ken, his ego boosting a lot higher. 'Really?'

Lea tried to stop blushing as she mentally chided herself for blurting out the compliment.

'Ok,' said Ken as he knew that he couldn't coerce Lea out of this arrangement. 'Deal!' he said as he extended his hand towards her.

'Deal!' she said as she shook his hand and flashed him a cute smile.

***

'Our room or the guest room?' asked Ken as he closed the front door soundlessly behind him.

'I am not sleeping with you,' whispered Lea shooting daggers at Ken.

'I won't let you sleep alone,' said Ken as before Lea could protest, he added. 'Let me just hold you. I know you won't be able to sleep alone.'

'Your room, then,' said Lea as they walked towards the bedroom.

'That's my girl,' said Ken as he walked behind her. 

'Wanna change into something more casual?' asked Ken as they walked into the bedroom.

'If you can lend me one of your shirts,' said Lea as she looked at him.

'Fine,' said Ken shaking his head and walked into the closet and retrieved one of his shirt. 'Will this do?' he asked.

'Yes,' she said and jumped into the bathroom to change.

'I will be waiting,' said Ken as he shrugged out of his clothes, except for his briefs.

He pulled back the covers and climbed into the bed and waited for Lea. A few seconds later, Lea crept onto her side of the bed and pulled back the covers, curling onto her side. Ken looked at her, sleeping far away and he pulled her close to his body.

'Ken?' whispered Lea as she rolled onto her back. 'I won't ...'

'I know. But you were sleeping too far away,' said Ken as he placed a kiss on her forehead and pulled her against his chest. 'I want you here, Lea ... more than anything else,' said Ken as he absorbed the feel of her in his arms.

'Thank you,' said Lea, pressing into his hard, lean body.

'Go to sleep,' he ordered as he stroked her hair.

'Good night,' mumbled Lea and she closed her eyes.

Ken looked down at Lea ... she seemed to be happy and peaceful. He ran his finger over her lower lip, making her curl into him further. For a brief second, he thought that maybe she would wake up but Lea was out like a light.

'I love you,' whispered Ken as he held her close.

***

'Ken, wake up ...,' screamed Lea as she shook Ken's shoulder. 'Get up, Ken ...'

'What happened? ... Why?' asked Ken as he got up disoriented at first.

'Many many happy returns of the day, baby,' said Lea as she hugged him tight.

It took a moment for Ken to actually process what she had said. By the time, he could respond, Lea pulled back and scampered off the bed.

'Thanks but where are you going?' asked Ken as he looked at his wife, who seemed to be busy searching for something.

'Just a minute,' she said over her shoulder as she found the box, deep inside the closet.

'Come over here, Lea,' said Ken as Lea seemed to be taking forever.

'Patience, Ken,' said Lea as she tore open the box and carried the package to the bed. 'Open it,' said an excited Lea as she settled down beside Ken.

'Later,' said Ken as he pushed the packet away and pulled Lea into his arms. 'Thank you,' murmured Ken against her lips as he claimed her mouth for a slow, deep eating kiss.

He pulled back when they were almost out of breath. His brown eyes had almost turned black with need and Lea seemed to be as effected as he.

'Wow, that was something,' said Lea as she touched her swollen lips. 'Anyways, time for my gift,' said Lea as she thrust the box between them.

Ken eyes the box inquisitively as he unwrapped it. He shook the box but there was no sound. Ken looked at Lea who seemed to be waiting for Ken's reaction. As the wrap came away, Ken opened the box and peered into it.

'How did you know I wanted this?' asked Ken as he looked at the first and oldest edition of his favorite Motor Trend magazine.

'You spend half of your time on the internet searching for it. I know, alright,' said Lea as she pushed his hair back from his forehead. 'I came across an auction in New York and I bought it for you.'

Ken caught Lea's hand and brought it to his lips, placing a brief kiss on her knuckles. 'Thank you,' he whispered, earnestly.

'You still haven't gone through the entire Pandora's box,' chuckled Lea as she indicated the box sitting between them. 'There is more to come.'

Ken looked into the box and found a photo album, a greeting card, a box of chocolates and a bottle of red wine.

'Come here,' said Ken as he pulled Lea into his side and opened the photo album.

The photo album contained the photos which Ken had never seen till date. Ken didn't even know when they were taken. They were the most bizarre pictures that he had ever seen. It was random and each picture had a unique tagline which Lea had scribbled in ink.

'When did you take all these photos?' asked Ken as he looked at the photo of him, sleeping on a couch in her New York apartment.

'I had been planning for a photo album since the day we met. So, whenever I got a chance, I clicked one,' she said as she ran her finger over a picture of them, together near a fountain.

They were smiling at something Lea had remarked and they looked happy, carefree and in love ... Lea pulled away from Ken as the last thought ran through her mind.

'Hey, don't think,' said Ken, immediately sensing Lea's withdrawal. He pulled her close and dropped a kiss on her forehead. 'Don't make this look like a parting gift. We will always have fun like the old times.'

'We will?' asked Lea, raising her head and looking into his eyes, hope glimmering in her heart.

'Yes,' said Ken and added, 'I will make sure that we do.'

'You didn't see the card,' said Lea as she thrust the card into his hands.

'Ok, Mrs. Harper,' said Ken as he looked at the card in his hands. 'To the most handsome guy in my world ...' he read out. 'Not bad,' he grinned and tweaked her nose.

'See inside,' whispered Lea as she flipped open the card. A small letter fell into his lap as soon as he opened the card. The more he started to read, the more his heart started pounding. 

"Dear Ken,

I don't know how you would react to this letter. Things haven't been the same between us since the day you walked out of the apartment in NY. I couldn't stay there anymore. Everything reminded me of your presence. I resigned from the job after a couple of days. I packed my bags and came here ... but I didn't realize that you wouldn't acknowledge my presence. The formal conversations, the act of smiling just for the sake of it, the awkward silences between us, and the inability to look into each other's eyes ... You hold me close when we dance but it takes all of my self-control not to press myself closer to you. I miss the closeness that we once shared together. I hate it, Ken... This isn't why I came here and it isn't the way we used to be around each other.

I miss the Ken I fell in love with. I proposed not to sleep with you because I didn't want you to think that all I want is getting into the sack. There has always been more in this relationship that just sleeping together. I am still your Lea -- the Lea with whom you shared almost anything and everything. I know that you love me because I still love you and I always will. Maybe things aren't so good between us but we can work them out ... I want you, Ken, more than anything else. Because life without you has no meaning and you are the only one who can love me and make me smile, like nobody else can.

I am sorry if you hate me after this letter. But you deserve to know the truth ... the truth which I can never voice. I don't have the courage to look into your eyes and speak my heart out because to see hatred in the eyes which were always filled with love, is too much to bear. I didn't mean to ruin your birthday. But I couldn't stew over how far we have grown apart. You have a right to know how I feel and forgive me, if you are offended by my choice of words. 

Many many happy returns of the day ... Happy Birthday, Mr. Harper. I have a lot planned for today. So, try not to sulk. I love you, Ken ... more than you can imagine."

***

By the time Ken finished reading whatever Lea had penned down, she had moved away from him and was standing near the window, looking at the twinkling stars. After reading the letter, he glanced at her profile with a different angle. He now realized why she had asked him to go on a date with him. The smiles which she had offered to him were all fake. But she still had managed to put up a brave front even when her heart was breaking into pieces. He studied her face -- she looked lost, frightened and sad and it pained him to see her in such a state. He got up and walked towards her. He stood behind her and looped his hands around her waist, drawing her close.

She gasped as she felt Ken's presence behind her. She felt Ken's hot breath brush against her ear. Being so close to him, made her entire body tingle ... She tried to move away, but Ken held her close, not wanting to let her go, after all that he had read.

'I love you,' he whispered and slowly turned her so that she faced him. He placed a finger under her chin and lifted it, looking into her eyes. Her sparkling eyes had become dull and they spoke a million things ... things which Lea didn't want to voice. He bent and allowed his lips to touch hers for a few seconds, before he snaked his hand behind her neck and angled her mouth, so that he could kiss her, making sure she realized how much he loved her and how much he missed her. His tongue ate at hers ... meeting, teasing and then scorching it with heat. Ken groaned when he felt her tongue lick his, equally eager to taste him. She tasted sweet, soft and just like his Lea. Ken pulled back, not wanting to, but he knew that both of both were short of breath.

Lea looked away, not wanting to meet his gaze. She was not sure what Ken would make of her. The letter contained all her pent up emotions and she didn't know how he would react If he didn't like her being so upfront ... 

'I will kill you if you don't stop thinking,' said Ken curtly as he pulled her into his arms. 'What's wrong, baby?' asked Ken as he ran his thumb over her cheek.

'Nothing,' said Lea and looked away. Before Ken could question her further, she tried to get out of his hold but Ken had a death like grip on her.

'Stop moving away,' thundered Ken as he dropped a flurry of short, soft and sweet kisses on her face. 'Thank you for the card and the letter,' he whispered between the kisses.

'You are welcome,' she said, too flushed to answer anything else.

'Why didn't you talk to me about how you felt?' asked Ken as he walked towards the armchair and sat down, before pulling Lea into his lap.

'I didn't know ... I didn't know how to make you understand ...,' faltered Lea unable to voice to her feelings.

'Do you hate me?' asked Ken as he ran his hands over her arms, trying to soothe her frayed nerves.

'No, I will never hate you, Ken,' whispered Lea as she looked into his eyes, losing herself in the love that she saw.

'I am sorry, Lea. I am sorry I shouted and said stupid things. I wish I could undo the past,' said Ken as he squeezed her hand and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

'I deserved it, Ken. I ...'

'Shh ... don't say that,' whispered Ken as he silenced her. 'You didn't deserve such treatment. I am so sorry. I promise I will make it up to you,' said Ken as he kissed her knuckles. 

'Can I sleep?' asked Lea as she laid her head against his shoulder. 'I am too sleepy,' she mumbled.

'Shall we go back to bed or ...?' Ken allowed the question to hang in the air.

'Let's sleep here,' answered Lea as she looped her arms around his neck. 'I like being this close to you.'

'Just a second, baby,' said Ken grabbing a sheet from the bed and draped it over them. 'Comfortable?'

'Hmm ...,' whispered Lea as she brought his hand and wrapped it around her. 'Hold me,' and with that she drifted into sleep.

Ken repositioned her, making sure that she was comfortable. Her head was on his shoulder and he tucked the wild strands on her hair behind her ear with a sweep of his hand. She was still a tiny thing. He still remembered the night in Texas when he had rushed to her house when she had a nightmare. He had held her in the same way, whispering sweet nothings and that night had changed his life completely. That night she had opened up to him, told him everything about her childhood. It evoked an immediate urge in him to protect, love and cherish her even more. He stroked her back and cradled her close to his heart. His Lea ... and he wasn't going to let her go anytime soon.

***

'I am sorry,' said Lea apologetically as she walked towards him, closing the front door behind her.

'Why?' asked Ken as he looked at her, 'For throwing a surprise party or for smearing the cake all over me?' he asked cocking his head to his side.

'For making you sleep on the armchair with me on top of you,' whispered Lea as she looked at him. 'I didn't mean to ...'

Before she could complete, Ken walked towards her and silenced her with a finger. 'Shh ... You don't know how nice I felt having you where I wanted you to be, completely surrounded by me and surrendering to my touch. Don't apologize and ruin my happiness, sweetie.'

'I like it when you call me that,' admitted Lea as she raised her head and looked into his eyes, which shone with love.

'I know,' he smiled slyly as he placed a kiss on the tip of her nose. 'And that's why I use it frequently or rather, used it frequently.'

'I have still one last gift for you,' said Lea as she took hold of his hand and dragged him into their bedroom.

'Lea ...,' sighed Ken as he walked into the bedroom and pulled Lea into his arms. He brushed her lips with his and said, 'I don't want any more gifts, baby. Let's get into the bed and ...'

'I won't sleep with you,' said Lea curtly.

Ken grinned and ran his finger over her lips, enjoying the feel of her soft lips beneath his calloused fingers. 'Ok, don't sleep with me. But let me just hold you ... Come on, it's my birthday, Lea ... You want to be happy, right?' asked Ken, knowing very well that Lea would succumb to his plea.

Lea knew that Ken was trying to emotionally blackmail her. But to be in his arms was a temptation which she couldn't resist.

'Fine,' she said and pulled back the covers, waiting for Ken to join her. He lost no time in losing his clothes, except for his boxers. As she began to remove her T-shirt, Ken reached to her side and helped her undress, leaving her in her sexy underwear. He whistled as soon as the lacy, black bra bobbed into his view.

Lea looked at him sharply and he shrugged and replied, 'I am just a guy, baby. I can't help it.'

He walked to his side of the bed and climbed in. He pulled Lea into his arms and ran his finger over her face, before cupping her face for a scorching kiss. As soon as he pulled back a little, Lea pushed him, making him reel back a little.

'What the hell, Ken?' she screamed. 

'Come on, I didn't promise that I won't kiss you,' he grinned, making her even more angry.

Ken tried to pull her back into his arms but she pushed him away. Upon a lot of cajoling and promises, Lea allowed him to hold her. He tucked the covers up to her chin and held her close. He turned her towards him so that she knew how serious he was. She gave him a questioning glance as she looked at him with sparkling blue eyes.

'You are the best thing that has happened to me, Lea. I love you,' he whispered making her heart swell with love.

Lea pressed herself closer and murmured, 'I love you, too. And happy birthday, Ken.'

***

Ken soon realized that Lea had no trouble whatsoever in keeping her end of the deal. She seemed to be a pro in controlling her urges or whatever they were called. But he ... He had to go through hell everyday and every night. Lea was driving him crazy by doing nothing at all. Looking at her in an old, faded T-shirt or just watching her load the dishwasher made him hard. She never tried to tease him or flaunt her assets before him. She talked to him as she always did. But he just couldn't stop staring at her perky little breasts or the way her perfectly round ass swayed every time she walked. His own wife was driving him wild and there was nothing he could do about it. He didn't want to be the first one to approach her. And he very well knew that Lea would never come to him. Thanks to his useless accusation and her stupid decision, he was going to have blue balls.

He looked at her as she moved swiftly on the dance floor. It was Rebecca's wedding reception and here, he was sitting like a dummy -- dreaming and ogling at his own wife. Enough was enough he thought as he walked onto the dance floor. And it seemed like a perfect moment, Lea's dance partner was off to get a drink.

'Care to dance?' asked Ken as he tapped on Lea's shoulder.

She was wearing a light purple colored, off-shoulder gown which had a knee length slit. The dress cupped each and every curve of her body, making her look even more irresistible. Her strappy white heels made her look tall. She had left her hair lose and the wild strands, teased her shoulders every now and then, making Ken want to run his fingers through them.

'Sure,' said Lea as she walked into his arms.

Ken held her close, looping his hands around her waist. He breathed in her scent, wanting nothing more than just to take her away from all the crowd and noise.

'You look sensational,' he whispered against her ear, his breath hot against her skin.

'Thanks,' murmured Lea shyly as she pressed herself closer to him -- her soft breasts pressing up against his hard chest. He lowered his hands to her bottom and was about to try something, when Lea guided his hands back up to her waist. 'Behave,' she said as a warning and continued to sway to the beats.

'Do you know what you are doing to me, baby?' asked Ken as he looked into her sparkling blue eyes.

'What?' asked Lea as she looked up at him, wanting to run her fingers through his well combed hair.

'I love you, baby,' confessed Ken sincerely, hoping that his voice conveyed the right emotion.

'I love you too, Ken. I want you to believe me,' said Lea as she looked into her deep brown eyes. 'If you think otherwise ...'

Ken silenced her with his finger on her lips. 'I trust you, sweetie. I always did and I always will.'

'Thanks,' said Lea as she leaned against his chest. 'But I still won't sleep with you,' she added.

'Oh God! Baby, this is heights. I can't survive another night if I don't have you in my bed. My balls are turning blue ...'

Lea burst into a laugh at hearing Ken's words. She tried to stifle her laugh but Ken's wretched face, made her laugh again.

'I am serious, Lea,' said Ken as he took her hand and placed it over his crotch. 'I am hard all the time.'

Lea took her hand back and shot Ken a heated glare. 'Behave, Ken. There are people around us,' she said and looked away.

'Dammit, Lea. Do you want me to beg?' asked Ken as he took her face into his hands. 'I can do that.'

'Just to get laid?' snickered Lea as stepped back and she looked at him wearily. 'Why beg? I think there will be many girls who are more than willing to get into the sack with you.'

'Lea ...' said Ken as he pulled her back into his arms. 'I want my wife in my bed. Not some random girl. Got it?'

'Yes, but I won't be a sex toy with whom --'

He leaned down and kissed her, kissed her hard, ignored the way her hands rose and pushed at his shoulders, the way she tried to twist her mouth from his, kissed her until she melted under him, until her whimpers of protest changed to whimpers of desire. Her mouth opened to his. He allowed himself one long, deep taste before pulling back.

She went limp against his body. She laid her head against his chest and breathed in his masculine scent and letting go of their problems for a few seconds. He held her close and she was thankful for it, because it looked like she couldn't trust her legs anymore. They had turned into jelly the moment Ken had placed his lips on hers.




Because I Still Love You Ch. 03



'Damn you, Lea. I love you. The past one month has been hell for me ...' he whispered as he stroked her back. 'I miss you, sweetie ... so much ...'

'I wish I could change things ...,' said Lea dreamily as Ken dragged her towards his table.

'Like?' prompted Ken as he took her hands into his. 'Our marriage?'

'No, never that,' replied Lea as she squeezed his hand. 'I wish I had never left you and gone to New York. I should have been stubborn and followed my heart.'

'Lea, what happened, happened baby. You can't change that,' said Ken as he held her gaze. 'I am happy that you are here, now. That's all that matters to me, cutie pie,' he completed and placed a kiss on her knuckles.

***

Although they had spent some time together during the reception, Lea had been reluctant in spending the night with Ken. She had taken the guest room and Ken was forced to spend another lonely night in his cold bedroom. Ken tossed and turned in bed unable to sleep, thanks to the thunder and lightning outside. And while he was awake all he remembered was the feel of his wife in his arms. The way in which her breasts pressed against him, her lips -- sweet and soft under his mouth, her smile which lit up his world and the way in which she had looked at him the entire night. He could never forget the love which reflected in her blue eyes. And she still was the same -- his Lea, cracking the same stupid jokes, pulling his leg whenever she got the chance and she still loved him. He was certain about the last thing. That was his last thought as he flung away the duvet and walked towards the guest bedroom, forgetting the fact that he was almost naked. To be with her being the most important need of the hour.

***

Lea looked at the rain that lashed against the windows. The weather was perfect for love-making. If only she had allowed ... Ken wanted her and it was her own foolishness that made her ask him to spend the night in separate rooms. She remembered how right she had felt in his arms when they were dancing. The protective way in which Ken held her as if she was the most fragile thing on Earth and his whole life depended on her. And the kiss ... She still shivered as she remembered their heated kiss -- the way in which his mouth had possessed hers, the feel of his lips against hers. She ran a finger against her lips wishing that she could just re-live the moment again ...

And suddenly, the bedroom door flew open. As it did, a jagged streak of lightning illuminated Ken, standing in the doorway, shoulders filling it. 

'Lea.' 

His voice was rough. The sound of it, the sight of him, a beautiful predator, fueled not by rage but by desire, and she knew she was lost. 

'Ken,' she whispered as she sat up. 

Their eyes met, and she flew to him. 

His arms wrapped around her. He clasped her face in his hands and kissed her, angling his mouth over hers again and again as he pushed her back against the wall. 

'Tell me what you want,' he growled. 

'You,' she said, 'you, you ...' 

He groaned, kissed her again and she opened her mouth to his pillaging tongue. He nipped the soft flesh of her bottom lip, nipped her throat and she moaned and rubbed herself against him, wanting this, wanting him, more than she wanted life. 

She reached between them, cupped her hand over his erection, felt it straining against the rough denim of his jeans. 

He said something low and urgent, told her what he was going to do to her in blunt, hot terms that made her lift her mouth for another soul-shattering kiss. 

Then he unzipped his jeans, dragged down her sweatpants, lifted her in his arms and thrust into her. 

Her cry of pleasure, the almost instantaneous contractions of her muscles as they spasmed around him, almost destroyed his control. Sweat beaded his knotted muscles as he held her against the wall, as he drove into her again, put his hand between them, found her slick heat and caressed her until she sobbed his name and came again in his arms. 

Then, only then, Ken let go. Came on one long, impossibly long rush of ecstasy, his head back, his lips drawn away from his teeth. Spilled himself into her until logic said there could be nothing left. 

To hell with logic. 

'Lea,' he whispered, and he lifted her in his arms and carried her to the bed, still inside her, still hard... 

Still wanting her. 

***

The bedroom was silent, except for Lea's soft moans as Ken made love to her. 

He withdrew from her slowly. God, so slowly it made him tremble. She reached for him but he took her hands, kissed the palms, kissed her mouth and told her they had all the time in the world now. 

Time to make things right. Time to take things one at a time. 

To taste her honeyed mouth, her skin, and her throat, there, just at the hollow and there, at the juncture of neck and shoulder. That made her purr with contentment and he did it again, nipping her lightly, and then soothing the small hurt with his tongue. 

And, all the while, he cupped her breasts with his hands, ran his thumbs over her nipples. He groaned at her swift response to the gentle torment and, finally, lowered his mouth to taste their sweetness, to taste her nipples, pale rose and beaded ... eager for the heat of his mouth. 

God, she had beautiful breasts. 

He loved the silken feel of them. The way they fit his hands. The way she arched her back when he sucked her nipples into his mouth. 

And those sounds she made. 

They were enough to take him over the edge but he wouldn't let that happen. Not this time. He wanted to make this last. To kiss all of her. Taste all of her. Then, only then, would he kneel between her thighs and possess her again. Slowly, he moved down Lea's body, kissing, sucking, and licking her flesh while she twisted with excitement beneath him, taking the clean, woman-scent of her deep into his nostrils, stroking her belly, circling her navel with the tip of his tongue. 

'Ken,' she whispered. She reached for him again, her hands clutching at his shoulders, and there was something in the whispered word, in her questioning touch, something so sweet and, yes, so innocent that it sent a shudder of pleasure through him. 

'Yes, baby,' he said softly, and slid his fingers through the soft curls that guarded her feminine heart. 

And touched her. 

A wild cry that started in the very center of her burst from her throat. He looked up at her face, watched the shock, the pleasure turn her eyes wide, and something fierce roared in his blood. 

'Do you like this?' he said thickly. 

'Oh God,' she whispered. 'Ken. Ken ...' 

He parted her with his fingertips. Saw how beautiful she was. The petals of her labia. The pink bud of her clitoris. 

He cupped her bottom, lifted her to him and stroked her with his tongue. Her cry rang out in the silence of the room; her hands dug into his hair. 

Her taste was exquisite; it rocketed through him and when she cried out and came against his mouth, he thought his heart might explode with pleasure. 

He lifted his head, wanting to see her face at this moment, wanting to see her eyes, yes, dark like that. Her hair, yes, wild against his pillows. Her skin flushed and damp and, God, he wanted more, more ... 

She reached for him. 'Ken.' Her voice shook. 'Come into me. I want you inside me.' 

The soft plea, the touch of her hand, pushed him to the edge. He kissed her, deeply. He whispered that she was beautiful. And then sank into her as slowly as the fever gripping him would allow. He wanted this moment to last forever ... the heat of her around him, the softness of her beneath him and her little cries as he filled her. 

When he was deep, deep inside her, he began to move. 

Slowly still. Each stroke almost more than he could take. 

He could feel the thud of his heart and hers. The contractions of her body as she rose to his thrusts. The world was fracturing around him. He couldn't think. There was only this. This. This... 

Lea cried out and clung to him. 

'I can't,' she said. 'I can't ...' 

'Don't be afraid,' he whispered. 'I am here. I am with you. I won't let you fall.' 

He felt it happen ... The pulsing of her womb. And as she cried out, he let go, let go of everything and flew with her into the starlit universe.

***

Lea knew something was terribly wrong as soon as she opened her eyes the next morning. The space beside her in the bed was empty and cold. She put on a robe and walked out into the living room. She walked into the living room and the smell of coffee was fresh in the air. She walked into the kitchen only to find Ken busy with the coffee maker. He seemed to be engrossed in some deep thought and it looked like he didn't even see her enter.

'Good morning,' whispered Lea as she stood with a smile on her face.

'Good morning,' said Ken casually, not even paying her a glance.

'I will freshen up and be right back,' said Lea as she waited for Ken's reply.

'Ok,' said Ken busy measuring the amount of decaf to be used.

Lea rushed into Ken's bedroom and shut the door. She went into the shower and whipped off the robe. She allowed the cold spray of water to cool down her rising temper. She thought that things would be good after last night. But Ken didn't even give her a cursory glance. She felt dejected and lonely. Dammit, what the hell was wrong with them?

***

'What's wrong?' asked Lea as soon as she sat before him, with a cup of coffee in her hand.

'Nothing,' said Ken as he kept reading the morning newspaper.

Lea slammed her cup on the table and snatched the paper from him. And before Ken could react, she scrambled into his lap and looped her arms around his neck.

'I have had enough of your "nothings". Now, time for a proper answer,' said Lea as she looked into his eyes.

'Everything is fine, Lea. Trust me, nothing is wrong,' said Ken as he tried to pry her hands away.

'Since when did you start lying?' asked Lea as she pushed his hands away and ran her fingers through his hair. 'I love you, baby. Now, tell me,' she ordered.

'I love you too.' His mouth twisted. 'Lea, if I allow my feelings to rule my life, something will happen. Something like what happened in New York. And if it happens, Jesus, if it does—' 

She caught his face in her hands, drew it down and pressed her mouth to his. 

'Nothing will happen, Ken. Not with me to take care of you.' 

A muscle knotted in his jaw. 'Don't underestimate me. Just because you got through my barrier doesn't mean that it can happen again ...' 

She clasped his face more tightly, as if she was afraid he would turn away. 'Ken. It won't happen again.' 

'The hell it won't. That is why we are having this conversation now.' 

'We don't have any more issues between us. Everything is settled.'

'Settled? Nothing is settled, Lea.' 

'All right.' Lea's voice rose. 'You are again going to be a pain in the ass. But I don't think so. And you would never hurt me. I know you wouldn't.' 

Ken's face hardened. He caught Lea's wrists and brought her arms to her side. 

'Let's not talk about this, okay? You can't underestimate me. Do us both a favor and leave it there.' 

'Damn you,' she said, her voice rising with anger. 'Listen to me. I am not you mistress. I am not your fuck buddy. I am you wife. I am the one whom you married and I will make sure that this marriage works. I will do anything and everything to make sure that you are mine and I am yours. I will fight, Ken and even if it means that I will have to fight with you.' 

'Fight with me?' The scorn in Ken's voice stung, but she ignored it. 

'Exactly. I love you. I didn't just sleep with you, for God's sake! I ... I wouldn't. Because ... because ...' 

'Because?' 

Lea took a shuddering breath. 'Because I don't sleep around just for the sake of it. Because I am not that kind of woman. Because there isn't a single guy out there who can make me feel, like what I feel when I am with you, like what you make me feel ... There was nothing between me and Michael. He is just a friend. You have got to trust me on this, Ken. You are the only one who ... who ...' 

Ken muttered an oath, pulled her into his arms and held her close. He tried to kiss her, but she turned her face away. 

'If you can't accept me as who I am,' she said in a shaky whisper, 'if I am going to see doubt in your eyes whenever we make love, then what happened last night was a mistake.' 

A man expected ultimatums from women before. Tell me you love me, or it's over. Ask me to marry you, or I am out of here. But never had an ultimatum been delivered with such quiet dignity. And he loved it. Loved the angle of Lea's chin, the pride of self in her eyes, loved ... loved ... 

'Ken?' 

He dragged his mind back from wherever it had been going. 

'You are right,' he said softly. 'I had no right to question you or doubt you.' He smiled. 'I am sorry, sweetheart. I promise it won't happen again.' 

Some of the stiffness went out of her. 'I would never lie to you, Ken. Not about anything.' 

He loved the way she said his name. The way she met his eyes. 

'So,' he said gently, 'you will answer any question I ask you? The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth?' 

He smiled, to make sure she understood that he was teasing. After a second or two, she smiled in return. 

'Uh-huh.' She put her hands under his T-shirt and spread them over his chest. 'What do you want to know?' 

He lowered his head to hers and nibbled lightly at her mouth. 

'For starters,' he said softly, 'how did you come to be so beautiful? And so stubborn?' He smiled. 'Most women would walk right away if a guy behaved like a possessive bastard.' 

Lea laughed. 'You have had experience with that sort of thing before?' 

'Trust me,' Ken said solemnly, 'I never had a woman with whom I could trust as much as I trust you.' He locked his hands at the base of her spine. 'And here you are ... sitting before me ... promising me that you will make things work by hook or by crook.' 

'Because I wanna be with you and I still love you, Ken. This fact is not going to change.' 

She said the words with such simple conviction that they made his heart swell. 

'I am sorry,' he said softly. 'Not that I don't want you with me.' He kissed her gently. 'I am sorry I was so rough on you, baby.' 

'You were just doing what you thought was right. It happens, baby.' 

'No.' He cleared his throat. 'I was judging you. And I had no right to do that.' He hesitated. 'I am too possessive about the people whom I love. I can't bear to see them with someone other than me. When I saw you with Michael in the university for the first time, that's when things started ...' 

'You thought I was falling for Michael?' she asked, her voice low. 

'No,' he said roughly, clasping her shoulders hard. 'Not that. I never thought that you were interested in Michael. But I thought that if you weren't mine, I could lose you to him or to anybody else ... You are ... you are the most important thing in my life, you are special to me.' He hesitated, wanting to tell her how he felt but not wanting to hurt her again. 'Lea, I spent a long time waiting for a girl to love me as much as I loved her and may be that is why I still feel that I may lose you if I let you go ... You understand?' 

Lea nodded. Her face was pale, but why wouldn't it be? God, he was an idiot! Lea was his wife; this was some insane part of his mind that he was talking about ... a part Lea wasn't aware of. 

'Baby. Forgive me.' He gave a little laugh. 'Talk about morning after conversation ...' 

'No. Don't apologize. I am glad you explained. I want you to remember something, Ken. You are the only one for me. I want you in my life. There is no place for a third person. You are the only one for whom my heart beats,' said Lea and tugged his hand, placing it on her heart. 

He smiled into her eyes. 'I know.' His voice roughened as he opened the sash of her robe. 'And it's the same here.' He swept his gaze over her, felt himself harden as he did. 'Have I told you how lovely you are?' 

She smiled. Better still, color crept back into her face. 

Gently, he kissed her throat. 'Lovely. And delicious. Here. And here,' he whispered, cupping her breasts, then sucking a nipple deep into his mouth. 

She gave one of those sexy little moans he loved. 

'You don't need this,' he said, drawing the robe from her shoulders. 

'Ken ...' 

'Shh, sweetie. Let me make love to you. No. Don't do anything. Just let me touch you and watch your face. I want to see what pleases you.' 

Everything, she thought, everything he did. 

'Spread your legs for me,' he said, his voice thick and slurred. 'Yes. That's right.' 

She whispered his name but he didn't answer. His eyes were hot on hers; just looking at him made her tremble. Slowly, she obeyed his honeyed command. She could feel herself weeping against his palm. 

'Do you like this?' he whispered. 

His fingers sought out her clitoris. Stroked it. His thumb was on her nipple. Then his mouth. It was too much. His hand. His lips. He was fully dressed and she was naked, at his mercy. Naked and loving what he was doing to her. Loving the feel of his hand. Of his mouth. Loving this... 

Loving him. I love you, Ken, she thought wildly, I love you ...

A cry tore from Lea's throat. Her legs gave way; she tumbled forward, into her lover's strong embrace. 

'Shh,' he whispered, and kissed her. 'You are safe. You are safe, sweetie. I have you, right here in my arms.' 

He lifted her, carried her to their bedroom and lay her down on the mattress. Slowly, his eyes never leaving hers, he undressed, baring his beautifully sculpted body. 

Lea held out her arms. 

He came down to her. Covered her. Took her hand and brought it to his silk-over-steel erection. Caught his breath as she guided him to her, lifted her hips and took him deep inside. 

'Ken,' she said on a little sob as he began to move. 'Ken ...' 

Sensation coursed through her like quicksilver. Ken groaned, whispered her name and took her with him into sheer white mind-blowing pleasure.

'I missed you, Lea,' whispered Ken as she settled on his side. 'I love you.'

'I missed you too, baby,' said Lea as she clasped his shoulder and laid her head on his chest, snuggling into him. 'I am not letting you go so soon, Ken. I won't.'

Ken smiled as he listened to Lea's words, silently thanking God for the precious woman in his arms. He ruffled her hair as she murmured his name, and cuddled closer. 

'I love you,' he mouthed and dropped a kiss on her forehead, making her sigh and drift into sleep. He had her in his arms, she was his and all the other things can be worked out because she still loved him ...

***

THE END

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