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Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 01

By: Mygypsy



The tall exotically beautiful woman stood outside the entrance to the jail waiting patiently in the fine misting rain. Her name was Shantanaya but most of those who knew her called her 'Tanaya. Finally the small door set into the larger doors opened and 'Tanaya watched as a rather large huskily built guy emerged from the door. He paused and glanced around before heading towards her.

'Tanaya smiled as he got closer and unlocked the vehicle she stood beside.

"Where's Brent and Matty?" he asked without preamble

"They're at work. Won't I do to give you a lift to town Brad?" 'Tanaya asked softly suddenly unsure of his welcome for her.

"I'd appreciate a lift from anyone this morning, I'm glad to be seeing the back of this place." Brad said gravely.

"Well hop in and let's get out of here." 'Tanaya said as she climbed behind the wheel.

Brad tossed his tightly packed bag over the back of the seat onto the rear seat before climbing into the vehicle himself. He shut the door and fastened his seat belt before glancing at 'Tanaya. "Don't spare the horses," he said with a grin.

Both were silent for close on ten minutes before 'Tanaya glanced away from the road for a moment to look at Brad.

"There's two beers in a little esky over the back if you want them." 'Tanaya told him quietly.

Brad glanced her way with a smile and turned to look in the back, sure enough a small esky sat on the back seat and when he opened it he saw two beers plus two cans of lemon squash. He pulled out a beer and a can of squash, opened both and handed 'Tanaya her drink. He raised his can and took a long drink before letting out a sigh of appreciation.

"I bet it tastes good, a year must be a long time to go between drinks." 'Tanaya said faintly.

"Yeah it is but that's in the past now." Brad said before taking several more deep swallows of beer.

"So are we all going out on the town tonight or are you planning a quiet night in?" 'Tanaya asked as she slowed the vehicle for a sharp bend in the road.

"Not sure, but I am planning to go out in the next few nights." Brad said as he watched the scenery go by.

"You don't need to Brad, what you'd be looking for is right here if you're interested." 'Tanaya said softly.

Brad turned his head to look at her but she kept her eyes on the road and did not turn to meet his gaze. "It's a wonder you haven't found someone else to hook up with," he commented in a soft tone.

"It's funny but none of the guys I've been around have had a hope in hell of measuring up to the last guy I was with. Granted he was too drunk to manage anything more than just holding me while we slept but there was something about him." 'Tanaya said tightly as if the memory pained her.

Brad was silent for several minutes as he remembered what he could of that night. He remembered taking 'Tanaya to bed with him but between that and waking up the next morning feeling hung over there was a black void.

"Maybe given a chance he'd like to get to know me," 'Tanaya said faintly.

Brad glanced at her and saw the slight flush of embarrassment on her cheeks, feeling compassion for her he reached out one large hand and placed it on her leg closest to him and gave it a gentle squeeze.

"You're a good friend 'Tanaya, I don't want to mess that up. I got enough mess to sort out at the moment," Brad said gently.

'Tanaya was silent as she drove for the next hour, it was hard to know what to say to Brad not only because of his year in jail but the whole complicated situation that led up to the sentence. Knowing Brad would probably be feeling the urge to use the facilities at a rest stop she pulled off the highway into a well-maintained rest stop, she parked the vehicle in the shade of a large tree and turned the motor off.

Brad got out of the vehicle thankfully and heading towards the small wooden building while 'Tanaya got out at a more leisurely pace. She took advantage of using the facilities and when she returned to the vehicle Brad was leaning against a front guard looking out at the lush green trees that covered the roadside hills.

"It seems nice and peaceful here," 'Tanaya said quietly.

"It does, doesn't it," Brad admitted without looking away from the scene in front of him.

"I packed a cut lunch if your hungry," 'Tanaya said after a few minutes of silence.

"Yeah, I could do with something to eat," Brad said as he turned back towards the vehicle.

'Tanaya walked to the rear of the large four-wheel drive and opened it to reveal a large esky. She opened it and pulled out a container of sandwiches that she offered to Brad, he studied it a moment before reaching for a sandwich thick with roast meat. He bit into it hungrily and almost closed his eyes with the bliss of finding the sandwich had lashings of rich thick gravy on the meat.

'Tanaya helped herself to a salad sandwich and watch discreetly as Brad hungrily ate all the roast meat sandwiches. When he reached for the last one he stopped and looked at her guiltily, he motioned towards the sandwich with a chagrined look on his face. 

"Do you want a roast sandwich?" he asked almost sheepishly.

"I've got my salad sandwiches. You go ahead, I remember you're partial to cold roast and gravy sandwiches." 'Tanaya said with a grin.

Brad grinned as he picked up the sandwich and bit into it with obvious relish, "It's good," he managed around the mouthful before taking another bite. 

'Tanaya finished her sandwich and washed it down with a drink of icy cold water before turning towards Brad and offering a second bottle of water to him. "There's this or cold beer. The thermos is busted or we could have had coffee."

"This'll do nicely," Brad said as he took the condensation-frosted bottle from her hand, his fingertips brushing hers as he grasped it.

'Tanaya felt the shock of the brief contact right down to the soles of her feet as she jerked her hand away hurriedly. She realised that Brad seemed to have missed the sensation of their fingers touching and her reaction to it.

"It's probably best not to make a big deal of it," 'Tanaya thought as she dried her hands on some paper towel she had packed for cleaning up with after eating. She could hear Brad drinking the cold water thirstily as she began packing up the empty containers.

"Had enough to eat? There's fruit or some cake," 'Tanaya said as she turned to face him.

"I might have something else later if that's okay," Brad said as he screwed the lid back on the bottle.

"Yeah, sure anything you like," 'Tanaya said with a bright smile.

Brad glanced at the overly bright smile on her face as he handed the bottle back to her, "All I want at the moment is to get some woman naked and beneath me and it don't matter too much who it is as long as she's willing for it to be hard and fast." He didn't give voice to his thoughts as he turned away so she wouldn't guess what was on his mind.

"Brent has a couple of places lined up for you to look at when we get back to town." 'Tanaya said as she closed the rear of the vehicle. "Let's get this show on the road."

The traffic was heavier as they pulled back onto the highway and into the flow of cars. Brad was silent as he reached for the second beer out of the small esky and savoured a long sip slowly, he lifted the can slightly when 'Tanaya glanced towards his side of the vehicle.

"Was mighty thoughtful of you to think of these," he commented.

"I figured it was one way to make sure you kept your cool with me being the one to pick you up." 'Tanaya said levelly.

Brad pretended interest in something out his window and didn't reply to her remark. "What can I say? I knew if I was stuck in a vehicle with you alone for more than two seconds I'd want to get you on the back seat and screw your brains out?" he thought as he watched the passing scenery.

"Has Brent got any two and three bedroom places lined up?" Brad finally broke his silence after nearly half an hour.

"Yeah, all three bedrooms. Though why you want a place that big is beyond me," 'Tanaya said with a shake of her head.

"Because I been promised visitation rights with Nicolas and I want to see my boy. Janey said if things went well she'd be happy for the visitations to stretch over the Sunday as well. I figured if I had extra bedrooms she could stay where I could help with Nick of a night." Brad said levelly.

"After getting put away like you did, I don't know why you're having anything to do with her," 'Tanaya snapped.

"First off, it was not her fault I got hit with a jail sentence and secondly, I happen to admire her. She's got guts," Brad said as he turned his head to give her a hard look but 'Tanaya was keeping her eyes on the road, "and any woman I get involved with will have to be cool with the situation or else get shown the door. I will not give Janey a reason to feel uncomfortable."

'Tanaya refused to let the tears of frustration well up in her eyes as she thought about the woman who was the mother of Brad's son. There was no way 'Tanaya could hope to compete with her for Brad's loyalty and affection.

"Well. Let's just concentrate on finding you a place you like first," 'Tanaya said after a few minutes.

"I'd never thought about living this far north before, but after the last year in this area I can see the benefits of the warmth." Brad told 'Tanaya.

"I sure enjoy the longer months I can use the beach." 'Tanaya said with a soft laugh.

"Full suit, bikini or birthday suit?" Brad couldn't resist asking with a throaty male chuckle.

"You'll just have to wait and see," 'Tanaya said, a smile curving her full lips.

Brad turned his head for a few moments to study 'Tanaya. From her shiny inky black hair and slightly oriental looks down her sculptured body and well toned legs to her toes tipped with pink nail polish. There was no doubt that 'Tanaya was one very sexy and sensual woman in Brad's mind. 

"Maybe if 'Tanaya would play by my rules I could get to know her better," Brad thought as he turned his head away.

"Like anything you saw?" 'Tanaya asked boldly. She had been aware of Brad looking at her and aware that his gaze had lingered on her beasts and legs.

"I'll hand it to you you got some prime real estate there but I don't think it's what I'm looking for," Brad said levelly "bloody nice scenery but."

'Tanaya pressed her lips together tightly, one more knock back from Brad shouldn't hurt, she had been putting her interest out there for him to be aware of since first meeting him. But still, it stung.

"How far away from Byron Bay is this town we're going to?" Brad asked.

"Under half an hour's drive." 'Tanaya said tightly. It felt like the mother of Brad's son was an invisible wall between them.

"Hhhmmmmm," Brad said sounding none to pleased.

"So tell me, what was it like in the prison farm? What did you and Ren do with most of your time?" 'Tanaya asked after several minutes of feeling uncomfortable.

"Wasn't as bad as I first thought it would be. Ren got a cushy job in the kitchen, being a qualified chef and all. They gave me a chainsaw and put me to work in the timber section since they didn't think I was likely to go troppo on their arses with the chainsaw." Brad said with a chuckle.

"No wonder I thought you looked like you've bulked up. Bet your all hard muscle under that shirt!" 'Tanaya said with a flirty little smile.

Brad laughed and looked away; as much as he tried to ignore 'Tanaya's flirting way she was starting to really get to him he realised as he shifted in his seat, uncomfortably trying to rearrange the crotch of his jeans discretely.

"So what did they have you doing? Cutting down trees?" 'Tanaya asked.

"Yeah, and trimming the fallen trees. That's cutting all the limbs off so they can send the logs to the mill." Brad explained.

"Oh gee! And here I was having visions of you decorating Christmas trees all year round!" 'Tanaya said with a chuckle.

Brad felt something pull tight in his groin at the sound of her laugh and grimaced to himself as he continued to look out the window.

"As a woman what do you think of the places Brent has lined up for me to look at?" Brad asked to change the subject.

"One place is in a bad area, too close to a pub. One is next door to some people who have a thousand and one animals, noise of a different kind. A couple places have real possibilities." 'Tanaya said seriously.

"Think there's much interest in things like my leather work around the area?" Brad asked with a glance.

"There's quite a few places in town and some nearby towns that would probably be only too happy to sell your stuff for you." 'Tanaya said having seen the quality of the leatherwork Brad produced.

"Good, I'll need all the money I can earn to get a decent home set up for Nicolas," Brad said. His first concern was providing for his son.

'Tanaya reframed from reminding him that he was totally at the mercy of the boy's mother when it came to anything to do with the child.

* * * * *

'Tanaya flipped the pizza box open and helped herself to a slice of pizza before retrieving a cold beer from the fridge for herself. She glanced at the clock and noted it was getting on towards ten o'clock. The night was fairly dark and she couldn't help wondering what Brad was doing while he was out with Brent and Matty at the local pub. Was he with another woman?

Pushing the uncomfortable though from her mind she grabbed the pizza box and headed for the lounge room. She sat in her favourite spot on the lounge and used the remote control to turn the tv on, she put her legs up along the lounge and turned her attention to the program on the screen.

Over an hour later 'Tanaya was in the kitchen helping herself to a cool drink of water before turning in for the night when sounds at the front of the house alerted her to the return of the three men. She returned to the lounge room and made herself comfortable and waited for the men to come into the house.

The sounds of laughter as they walked up the hallway told her they were in a good mood and she waited impatiently to see if Brad had a woman with him.

"You still awake 'Tanay'?" Brent asked as he came in and sat in the only armchair in the room.

"Certainly looks like I'm awake Brent," 'Tanaya said with a quick glance. She heard someone walk behind her chair and head into the kitchen as she sat up swinging her feet to the floor.

"You like bacon 'Tanaya?" Matty asked from behind her, the slight slur to his voice telling her he had enjoyed a few drinks.

"It makes a good breakfast on the weekends," 'Tanaya said as she turned her head to look at him.

Matty held up a large Styrofoam tray of bacon rashers, clearly he had won one of the meat raffles held at the pub each Friday night.

"Got lucky did you Matty?" 'Tanaya asked with a grin. It was impossible not to like the guy; he was younger than her and had a certain boyish innocence about him despite a rough life.

"I got the big bacon tray. But Brad got the meat." Matty said with an infectious grin.

"Is that true Brad? Matty bought home the bacon but you're the man with the meat?" 'Tanaya called.

There was a smothered sound from Brent as he swallowed his laughter but Matty let out a loud snort as he tried to contain his laughter.

Brad walked in from the kitchen with a slice of cold pizza and a grin. He sat on the lounge on the end opposite 'Tanaya, sent her a grin and took a bite of pizza.

"You'd better sit that tray of bacon in the fridge if you're going to be here for long Matty," 'Tanaya told him softly.

"Ok," Matty agreed and headed for the kitchen.

"I put my meat in the fridge 'Tanaya," Brad said with a grin.

"I'm sure you know exactly what to do ... with your meat," 'Tanaya almost purred the soft remark before turning her attention back to the television.

"Alright if I have some pizza?" Matty called from the kitchen.

"As long as you put the olives in the rubbish. No leaving them on the sink!" 'Tanaya called in reply. "You want some too Brent?" 

"I'm fine thanks 'Tanay' in fact I might just head home. Catch you tomorrow evening Brad. I'm off Matty!" Brent called as he got to his feet.

Brent paused in the archway into the kitchen and motioned for Matty to leave the house as well. 

Matty looked a bit confused but then Brent motioned towards Brad and 'Tanaya where they were sitting in peaceful companionship. Matty remembered the woman who had been coming onto Brad at the pub, he had seemed intrigued at first but had lost interest quickly.

Matty blinked confused for a moment then his eyes widened and he began to follow Brent. "I'll come get the bacon tomorrow evening, you take enough for a good feed off it!" he called as he followed Brent.

"Okay, thanks Matty!" 'Tanaya called after him.

Brad and 'Tanaya sat in silence for several minutes after the front door close behind the other two, finally it was Brad who broke the silence.

"I notice Brent has a door key to your place," 

"Things have been pretty tough for them. They had trouble getting a place, trouble getting jobs. They have the basics they need but their fridge died the other week and the one they have is only tiny. I have a deep freeze here so I let them use it." 'Tanaya explained.

" Brent did say you've been a good friend to them." Brad said with a glance at her.

"They're good people." Was all 'Tanaya had to offer. 

There was silence between the two of them for the next half an hour as they finished watching the program. Finally 'Tanaya got to her feet and turned her head to look at Brad.

"Your welcome to stay the night here, stay as long as you need to get a place of your own set up. Or Brent and Matty would probably appreciate an extra housemate to share expenses. There's the spare bedroom, the single bed in there is made up. This lounge pulls out to a double bed," 'Tanaya said then looked away, she cleared her throat suddenly nervous, " or you can share my bed."

When she looked back at him Brad was watching her solemnly.

"I'm not looking for anything permanent, I'm just after a warm willing body so I can get my rocks off." Brad said evenly.

'Tanaya was silent for a few moments as she looked down at her feet, when she raised her eyes she met Brad's gaze. "I'd be lying if I said I didn't want more than a one night stand but I'm smart enough to know that sometimes we don't get what we want and I would make do with what ever eventuates."

Brad considered her words for a few moments; he wanted her real bad, had since he had first met her. He wasn't sure if one night would be enough to satisfy his physical desires but he had no wish to make her think anything more than just physical release would come of anything that happened between them.

"I'm just going to clean my teeth then I'm off to bed," 'Tanaya said trying not to feel foolish when Brad didn't reply to what she had said.

Brad watched 'Tanaya leave the room before he turned the television set off and headed for the spare room where his bag was. He heard 'Tanaya leave the bathroom turning out lights as she moved through the house. He changed into a pair of boxer shorts he intended to use as pyjamas and headed for the bathroom. The smell of the body fragrance 'Tanaya used was thick in the bathroom and Brad gritted his teeth as he felt his need course through him. He left the bathroom hurriedly and retrieved a pillow and blanket from the other bedroom before going to the lounge room and pulling the lounge out so it turned into a bed.

He grinned to himself as he saw the size of it; it was a much bigger than the one he had used in prison. Pushing aside the thought that all he need now was a willing woman he tossed the pillow onto the bed before lying down. He had to lie diagonally across the bed from corner to corner but at long last his feet weren't hanging off the end of the bed.

Brad made himself comfortable and closed his eyes, the house seemed unnaturally quiet after being used to the cells in jail. There were no sounds from another person just through the wall and the faint light coming from the streetlight outside the window seemed alien as he turned his head and glanced that way. He tried to close his mind to the knowledge that 'Tanaya was just a few rooms away, lying in her bed and probably thinking of him out here.


Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 01



* * * * *

The soft sound of footsteps woke Brad instantly and he sat up abruptly, any unusual noise would wake him quickly. He turned his head towards the noise in time to see 'Tanaya attempting to sneak past without waking him up.

" 'Morning 'Tanaya," Brad said his voice rough from sleep.

"Oh! Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," 'Tanaya said as she stopped unconsciously to look at him.

"I was waking up anyway," Brad said as despite his best intentions his gaze wondered down her body where her silk robe revealed more of her body shape than it concealed.

"I... I was about to put the kettle on in a minute, want some coffee?" 'Tanaya forced her straying thoughts back to her morning routine.

"Yeah, that'd be great." Brad said looking away from her well-curved body.

'Tanaya licked her suddenly dry lips and headed for the bathroom hurriedly. "Oh God," she thought as she shut the door and leant against it, "he's going to thing I'm sex starved if I keep this up." 

She hurried to use the toilet and as she was washing her hands she happened to glance up and see herself in the mirror over the washbasin. The silk wrap clung lovingly to her body showing off her full breasts as well as the hard nubbins that were her nipples. The sheen of the material showed off the natural lustre of her olive skin where it was visible on her shoulders and cleavage.

'Tanaya turned away with a wry smile and reached for the door handle, she paused for a moment to school her face to impassiveness before opening the door.

"Bathroom's free!" She called over her shoulder as she headed into the kitchen. She filled the peculator from habit, replaced the filter and added freshly ground coffee beans before turning it on. She hesitated for a moment when the customary buzz failed to start and reached for the light switch; a quick flick failed to get results.

"Light bulb in here's blown. If you got a new one I'll change it for you!" Brad called from the bathroom.

"Ahhh, I think it's a black out! Which means Brent and Matty'll be over any minute to cook themselves breakfast on my gas stove," 'Tanaya replied as she reached for a kettle to fill with water and place on a gas burner.

"They only got electricity over there? No gas?" Brad asked as he walked into the kitchen tucking his shirt into his jeans. He couldn't help but admire the way the silk wrap clung lovingly to the curve of 'Tanaya's hips after being clinched in tight with a belt at the waist. Brad turned away as he felt himself growing hard.

"Instant coffee will have to do this morning. If your hungry check what's in the fridge and pantry; I don't cook breakfast." 'Tanaya announced turning around to face him.

"I'll find something for myself." Brad agreed as he turned his attention to the fridge. "Would you eat if I cooked enough for two?" he asked without looking her way.

"As long as it's not eggs, I don't eat eggs." 'Tanaya said managing to keep the surprise out of her voice.

"How about a bacon sandwich? Matty did say you could have a feed of the bacon." Brad said as he put bread, eggs and steak on the table.

'Tanaya cocked her head to one side as she glanced towards the direction of the front door, after a few second there was a loud knock then the sound of a door being opened.

" 'Tanay', power's out. Mind if we come in?" Brent called.

"In the kitchen," 'Tanaya answered as she got two more mugs out for coffee.



Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 02



Just a quick note for the readers who have been following this 'series'. An extended version of Ren-shades of grey Ch13 has replaced the first ch13 posted. 

MYGYPSY

*

Hank Scofield watched the three men as they carried the bundles of roof tiles up to the section of garage that was left to reroof. He had to acknowledge that the large man filling in for one of his usual workers was a hard worker who didn't complain about the hard work in the heat.

Hank had turned up to collect two of his usual workers and found their friend talking to them while they waited for their lift to work. Down one worker due to family illness Hank had offered their friend some casual work to fill in until his usual crewmember was back.

The guy, Brad, had been up front about being just out of jail and on parole even as he was offered the work.

Hank had not bothered to tell him that he was well aware of exactly who he was and why he had been in jail. The two men who had become a part of his crew had been honest about their circumstances when he had first hired them nearly ten months ago. At the time he had contacted people he knew and had gotten information about Brent and Matty before offering them permanent work.

Hank was an ex--con himself but that didn't mean he was any kind of a fool; just someone willing to give people a second chance.

"Okay!" Hank called loudly, "knock off for lunch!"

The five men who worked for him finished the tasks they were doing before heading over to the shade provided by a large tree. 

Hank noticed that Brad checked his mobile phone before sitting on an upturned bucket to eat.

"Expecting a call?" Hank asked curiously.

"Been hoping I'd get a message saying I would get to see my son tomorrow or Sunday," Brad said trying to push aside a feeling of depression over the lack of contact from his son's mother.

"Walsh mightn't have got your contact details to her yet," Brent said mentioning the lawyer Brad had passed the information on to.

"How old is your boy?" Hank asked.

"Nearly nine months. I've been seeing him every second weekend for the last five months but a fortnight ago he was teething and had a bad cold so his mother decided against taking him to see me. She did say something about turning up last weekend but it was a no show." Brad said and heaved a deep sigh.

"Well I hope things work out," Hank said before starting on the lunch his wife had packed.

Brad turned to his own lunch and tried not to think about his son Nicolas. Had his mother gotten cold feet and decided she didn't want him in their child's life?

There wasn't much he could do about it if that was the case he admitted to himself. No matter how much he wanted to be a part of his son's life he had to abide by his mothers choice.

* * * * * 

'Tanaya watched Brad as he rinsed his coffee cup before placing on the sink to drain.

"I'm headed for a shower, it'll be good to wash some of the dust off from working." Brad said.

It was mid afternoon Saturday and 'Tanaya knew the real reason Brad was at loose ends was that he had been hoping to get word he would see his son this weekend.

'Tanaya turned away as she thought about another woman, any woman, having Brad's child.

She heard Brad leave the room and she sat down at the table. What could she do to try to cheer him up? 'Tanaya wondered. 

Maybe a b-b-q would liven things up, 'Tanaya decided as she got to her feet to check what meat she had in the freezer. She could see if Brent and Matty wanted to come over, they were always up for company. A quick check revealed the basics for a meal, it would be nothing fancy but hopefully the company would help to lift Brad's spirits.

Grabbing her door keys 'Tanaya headed out the front door and hurried across the street to the house Brent and Matty lived in. 

An older style four bedroom home it sat on the corner of the block with over grown rambling gardens. The two men were gradually cleaning it up but they had only been living in it for the past four months.

A few quick words with Brent and Matty and they were happy to come over shortly for the afternoon. Brent said they would quickly slip to the shops to get some steaks, a loaf of bread and a few things for a salad before they arrived.

Back at her house 'Tanaya went through to the kitchen and set the meat out to thaw and made sure there was enough beers for the four of them. None of them were big drinkers but they all enjoyed a cold beer or two after a days work.

Brad walked into the kitchen wearing only a pair of low cut jeans and paused when he saw 'Tanaya over by the sink.

"I could have sworn I heard you go out earlier," Brad said as he fastened his belt buckle.

The skin on his upper arms and shoulders showed the play of muscles beneath and 'Tanaya was suddenly breathless as she saw his broad shoulders.

"What? Oh! I went over to see Brent and Matty for a minute or two," 'Tanaya said as she turned away.

"You and Brent were an item once weren't you?" Brad asked.

"Yeah, a few years ago now but," 'Tanaya admitted guardedly. "You know how to peel spuds don't you,"

"Yeah," Brad said as he helped himself to a bottle of cold water from the fridge.

"Good, make yourself useful." 'Tanaya ordered lightly as she placed a knife and some potatoes in the sink.

The two of them worked in companionable silence for a while as they prepared a potato salad.

A loud knock on the front door preceded it being opened and Matty yelling out, "Bread delivery! And I got a tray of fresh brownies!"

'Tanaya smiled as she turned to face the doorway, Matty had a lot of almost child like innocence she found refreshing. He was no fool but he also assumed the best about people until proved other wise.

"I got fresh brownies," Matty's smile was wide and his eyes bright, he knew 'Tanaya loved fresh chocolate brownies and often surprised her with one or two when he could.

He had decided five years ago when he had first met 'Tanaya not long before she broke up with Brent that she was a friend he wished to keep.

"What type?" 'Tanaya asked with a smile. 

"There's four chocolate and four caramel fudge," Matty said as he placed the large paper bag on the kitchen table. It obviously had a piece of cardboard or Styrofoam tray as a base for the brownies to rest on.

"Looks like Matty has your number," Brad remarked with a grin as he saw the way 'Tanaya eyed the bag.

"You're just mad 'cause I thought of it first," Matty told Brad with a good-natured smirk.

"I don't know about that, I'd worry what 'Tanaya would do to get those brownies if I was you." Brad said with a chuckle.

"Probably bash you with the broom if you go near them before she has the first one," Brent said as he walked into the kitchen catching the end of the conversation.

"That IS serious," Brad said with a laugh.

'Tanaya stuck her tongue out at Brent but he merely laughed at her which left Brad wondering at the relationship between the two of them. He knew that they had been a couple for a few years, had even lived together.

He had found himself mellowing to the possibility of a relationship between himself and 'Tanaya ever since arriving at her place. It was not the close proximity causing the thought to grow; rather he had been getting to know her on an entirely new level. He had actually found himself wondering about how a relationship between them would go.

"I think Brad's got designs on your brownies," Brent teased 'Tanaya as he noticed the distracted look on Brads face.

'Tanaya turned around hurriedly thinking she would find Brad trying to sneak a brownie; and that wasn't going to happen, not in her kitchen!

Brad looked at 'Tanaya startled out of his reflections by her sudden movement and blushed when he realised the object of his thoughts was right in front of him.

'Tanaya grinned cheekily as she realised she had caught Brad, she saw the tide of red rise up his neck and she moved towards him with the sinuous grace of a feline.

"What were you thinking of big boy?" 'Tanaya almost purred as she raised a hand to his cheek. She saw raw burning need burst into flames in his eyes and then his face was too close to focus on as he cupped her face in his hands and pressed his lips against hers in a hot, rough kiss of hunger.

Brad felt 'Tanaya's lips part beneath his and then he slid his tongue between her teeth and deep into her mouth as he ravished her mouth hungrily. He was dimly aware of her hands coming to rest on his upper arms before sliding up around his neck.

He was aware of the feel of her waist beneath his hands and he pulled her body hard against his own. He swallowed her breathy little sighs of pleasure and changed the angle of his kiss the better to taste her mouth. He slid his hands around behind her back and down until he cupped her tight arse in his hands. He grasped her soft but toned globes and lifted her as he kissed her, raising her hips flush with his to grind her against the hard ridge of his arousal.

"Take into the bedroom you pair!" Brents words cut through the animal like hunger in Brads mind and he immediately jerked his head away from 'Tanaya's. Gently he placed her feet on the ground once more and held her by the waist until she was steady before letting her go.

A faint sound of complaint came from 'Tanaya as she swayed towards him and opened her eyes reluctantly.

Brad was watching her with dark hooded eyes looking like he was ready to take up where he had left off at any second.

Brad could hear the blood rushing through his ears; feel the thunder of his heart in his chest. His body was so aroused from that one kiss that his manhood strained against his underwear and jeans so aroused; so hard with need that it was physically painful.

'Tanaya ran her tongue gently over her tingling and throbbing lips. She could almost still feel the imprint of his hard mouth on hers and she certainly could taste him on her lips. She saw the burning need in his eyes flare higher for an instant before he controlled it.

Brad watched as 'Tanaya licked her lips, smiled and turned away. He almost had to turn away himself to prevent himself reaching out, grabbing her and pulling her against him hard as he took up where he had left off.

"Why bother lighting the bar-bee? We could just throw the steaks on you pair and they would be cooked real quick," Brent said with a faint chuckle.

Brad looked his way not amused but Brent had turned away and only Matty was still watching him wide eyed with awe.

Matty eyed him suddenly nervous then turned away hurriedly.

Brad turned his head to watch 'Tanaya where she had resumed slicing tomatoes, he turned on his heel and headed for the shower once again. Maybe a cold shower would calm the burning need raging in his body.

He locked the bathroom door before stripping off and stepping into the shower, somehow he didn't trust 'Tanaya not to try to join him in the shower while his lust was upon him.

The cold water was a shock to his heated body but seemed to make no difference to the hard shaft that stood out from his body rigidly. Cursing beneath his breath that it had come to this impasse Brad reached down and closed one hand around his impressive erection.

Just over eleven inches long from base to tip and over three inches round, it had a large purple mushroom like head where a drop of precum already oozed from the slit.

Brad groaned faintly as he began stroking the silky smooth wet cock. He closed his eyes and leant against the shower wall as he imagined that the hand encircling his cock belonged to 'Tanaya.

His hips jerked involuntarily as he began pumping his hand in a steady rhythm. He could feel every ridge, every blood vessel as he pumped his hand up and down the hard length of his shaft. Soon that wasn't enough and he started to move his hand faster, he realised he wasn't going to last long and gritted his teeth as he thought about the woman out in the kitchen who had him hiding in the shower jerking off like a randy teenager.

He felt his balls tingle then tighten and his cock throbbed in his grasp as he tugged at it mercilessly. He felt his cum surge up from his balls and erupt from the head of his cock with a powerful rush. He kept fisting himself until he had milked the last stream of spunk from his body then leant against the wall beside him as his legs went weak.

He struggled to catch his breath for a few moments before straightening once more to stand beneath the stream of cold water and wash the slight sheen of sweat from his body. He checked to make sure all traces of his pleasure were washed away from both himself and the shower cubicle before turning the water off and stepping out onto the bathmat.

His towel was damp as he dried himself off and got dressed once more before heading towards the kitchen. The kitchen was empty but he could hear voices out the back and he walked to the back door to look outside.

A huge tree provided shade for half of the back yard and in one shade clothe covered corner sat a small round b-b-q barely big enough for the four of them. Plastic patio furniture sat in the shade not far from the b-b-q, the protective tarp that usually covered it folded nearby.

Brent was busy cleaning the b-b-q while Matty was chopping some kindling and small pieces of wood for use while 'Tanaya sat in the shade sipping a can of cola.

Brad walked out into the back yard and 'Tanaya turned her head to watch him for a few seconds before waving a hand at the five other chairs scattered around in the shade. "Go grab yourself a drink if you want one or just sit down and chill out." 'Tanaya invited.

Her body was still buzzing from his kiss earlier. Kiss? It had been more like he had crawled inside her body consuming her.

'Tanaya turned her head away refusing to keep watching him, she knew he had most likely jacked himself off in the shower rather than let her soothe him by hand or mouth. "Well the more fool him," she thought annoyed.

So far 'Tanaya had failed to break through his defences and reach him. For some reason he had this idiotic idea that he could not have her AND his son, did he think she would try to prevent him seeing the boy?

Angry at the turn her thoughts had taken 'Tanaya brushed them aside and tried to concentrate on the promise of a pleasant evening before her. She smiled as Matty began singing to the music on the radio; he was hopelessly off tune even if he had a nice voice.

"So what are we going to do until it's time to cook the b-b-q?" Brent asked as he settled himself in a chair with a cool beer.

"How about we sunbake?" 'Tanaya asked with a saucy smile.

"We worked in the sun all day and now you want us to sit in it voluntarily?" Matty asked with disbelief as he found a seat and opened a can of beer.

"Oh come on now Matty," 'Tanaya said with a pout, "I was thinking along the lines of sun bathing ... nude."

Matty promptly choked on his drink sending beer spraying everywhere. 

"Don't say things like that!" Matty finally spluttered, "I should have known you were about to say something that would have Brad growling at me an' Brent all night!"

Brent threw his head back and laughed the deep throaty laugh of a man enjoying himself.

"Oh I don't know about that," 'Tanaya murmured silkily, "I'm beginning to wonder if Brad has the sense to know when to snarl."

Brad turned his head to watch her expressionlessly, clearly she had been affected just as much as he by the kiss but she had not had the chance to cool down in the shower.

'Tanaya met Brad's gaze levelly and refused to be the first to look away, she felt her blood heat once again as he slowly swept his eyes over her body before meeting her eyes once again. 

Her heart was thudding in her chest, her nipples felt overly sensitive and her lips tingled as she licked them.

Brad grinned as he turned his head away, the longer he stayed at her place the more he saw the benefits of having 'Tanaya as a lover. She had a great body; he was attracted to her and she to him. He found her point of view on many things interesting as she always took the time to be well informed.

If he hadn't needed to keep his life simple and uncomplicated at the moment ... well keep his life from getting more complicated; then he would have been more than willing to take 'Tanaya up on her many open invitations.

* * * * * 

The evening had been a success 'Tanaya decided as she relaxed in her chair. 

The meal had been eaten and all four had enjoyed themselves. Even if 'Tanaya had hoped she and Brad would enjoy themselves in a different manner after the kiss they had shared several hours earlier.

"I'm just off to get another cup of coffee, anyone else want one?" 'Tanaya asked as she stood up.

"I don't know about coffee but I could do with an after dinner beer about now," Brent said as he got to his feet and started collecting empty bowls from the small table.

"I could go a beer," Matty agreed as he got to his feet to help clear away the used dishes. 

Whenever they ate at 'Tanaya's place they cleaned up afterwards saving her the trouble. It was little enough repayment for the feminine company she provided at these times.

"Yeah, I might grab a beer as well," Brad said getting to his feet.

'Tanaya watched the three men walk through the back door and smiled to herself as she relaxed back into her chair with a sigh. She knew that anyone one of them would have a cup of coffee with them for her when they returned they were thoughtful that way.

Inside Brent poured a cup of coffee for 'Tanaya and added sugar the way she liked it, Brad grabbed three beers from the fridge and Matty stacked the empty dishes and containers in the sink.

"So you getting it on with 'Tanaya yet?" Brent asked Brad.

"No and I don't plan to. I have enough on my hands at the moment with access to Nicolas to be sorted out, I don't need the complications that would come with a relationship with 'Tanaya." Brad said quietly.

"You hoping to get with Sky?" Matty asked.

"No, Janey is with the cop. Can't say I like the guy, he seems more then a bit thick about Janey to me but she seems wrapped up in him." Brad said levelly.

"You know 'Tanaya has it bad for you," Brent said quietly, a tone of warning in his voice.

"I hear you, and believe me I have no intentions of hurting her. I think she is one hell of a good person." Brad acknowledged. 

The three men headed back out towards where 'Tanaya waited outside. They had reached the back door when the doorbell rang.

"I'll go see who it is," Matty said as he was behind the two others.

"Okay, I'll let 'Tanaya know someone's at the door," Brent said and continued on his way.

Matty turned around and headed for the front door, the doorbell rang once again before he could reach it. He opened the door and looked out onto the front steps, the figure on the steps was in shadow due to the tree in the front yard.

"I'm sorry, I must have the wrong place." A hesitant voice said.

"Who are you looking for?" Matty asked, the voice sounded familiar but he couldn't place it.

"Bradley Stanton," this time it was a man who spoke and Matty noticed him slightly behind the woman.

Matty reached for the light switch for the front entry and flicked it on so he could see the people clearly; he gave a start of surprise as the woman raised a hand to shield her eyes from the sudden glare of the light.

"Brad's ... ummm ... err, he's out back Sky." Matty spluttered. She had been mentioned just a few minutes ago and it knocked him off balance that she had suddenly appeared.

"Can I speak to him please Matty?" Janey asked and shifted the restless child in her arms.

"Who is it Matty?" 'Tanaya called as she entered the back door and headed toward them. She saw Matty cast an uneasy look over his shoulder at her and she smiled, it took so little to rattle him.




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 02



As she reached Matty she looked past him to the two people standing in the doorway. A feeling of protective rage flowed over her as she recognised Janey and one of her brothers, the blonde one like her, the one that wasn't a cop.

"What are you doing here?" 'Tanaya asked tightly. She saw Janey move slightly as something shifted in her arms and a fretful cry could be heard.

"I'll go get Brad," Matty said faintly to 'Tanaya before turning and hurrying for the back door.

Janey felt her brother put his hand on her shoulder and was glad of his presence; she could feel the animosity coming from the woman in front of her in waves.

"I went to the prison today only to find out Brad had been released a week earlier than I was expecting." Janey said evenly.

"If you think you can cause trouble now he's out then...." 'Tanaya started only to stop at the sound of hurrying steps.

"Janey?" Brad called as he hurried towards the front door. He had not been able to hear what 'Tanaya was saying but he could hear the anger of her tone. He stepped up beside 'Tanaya and she hesitated a moment before stepping aside.

"I have been hoping to hear from you!" It came out sounding like an accusation, not the relief he actually felt because she was here.

"I only found out about you getting out up at the jail today," Janey said evenly and turned so Brad could see Nicolas where he rested against her shoulder.

"I've missed seeing you both," Brad said softly as he stepped outside the doorway and took Nicky from his mother's arms. "Maybe we can arrange for me to see you both tomorrow?"

Janey couldn't miss the hopeful tone in his voice and smiled softly. Her and Brad had become good friends since she had started taking Nicky to visit him five months ago.

"Well, that was my plan when I tried to find you, so toughen up! You got to put up with us tomorrow. There's a good park a few blocks from here," Janey said with a wide smile.

'Tanaya saw the way Brad held his son, the way he settled the small head against his chest and gently kissed the silky soft baby hair. The pain was almost physical as the longing squeezed at her heart.

"She can bring your boy here, if she don't like me around him I'll disappear while he's here." 'Tanaya said tightly.

Brad turned to look at 'Tanaya for a few moments.

"Everything okay?" Brent asked as he walked towards the group in the doorway, he was aware how raw 'Tanaya's feelings would be. "Hey Janey, do you want to bring the little fellow in out of the night air while you and Brad sort a few things out?"

Janey cast a quick look at 'Tanaya then looked at Brad, she was sure that the other woman didn't want her anywhere near Brad but Janey had no intention of letting her stop Nicolas from being with his father.

"Just for the few minutes it takes to sort things out," Janey agreed.

"Do you want me to come in or wait in the car?" James asked his sister quietly.

"You might as well come in James, we're all friends here." Brad said. Since getting to know James when Janey had bought Nicky to visit he had found her older brother to be a decent person, once he realised he didn't need to protect his sister.



Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 03



'Tanaya wiped the table over one last time before surveying the kitchen with a critical eye. She still felt as if there was some trace of the other woman who had been in her kitchen that day present even if it could not be seen. Stiff with irritation 'Tanaya tossed the cloth in the sink and headed for the lounge room.

Brad looked up as 'Tanaya walked into the room and sat down in the only recliner chair. Clearly she was in a bad mood the same as she had been last Sunday night after Janey and Nicolas had spent the day with him.

"Want to watch one of the video's I got out?" Brad asked.

"Might as well," 'Tanaya agreed. She was trying not to let her anger show but realised that Brad was aware that all was not well with her.

"So are you in the mood for an action movie or a murder mystery?" Brad asked as he got to his feet.

"Definitely a murder mystery," 'Tanaya muttered as she watched Brad pick up the two dvd's he had hired.

"Okay, murder and mayhem it is then," Brad said as he fed one of the dvd's into the machine and picked up the remote control before returning to the lounge. He quickly pulled it out so that it turned into a bed before tossing a pillow up one end and sitting down to remove his boots.

"Have you thought about asking if you can have Nicky without Janey around for a day?" 'Tanaya asked quietly, not wanting to make Brad realise how much she hated having Janey around.

'Tanaya considered Janey responsible for Brad and his friend Renegade going to jail, Brent and Matty getting Good behaviour bonds put on them and all the negative reactions from the town folks when they had moved here a year ago.

"Does Janey being here bother you that much?" Brad asked quietly as he looked at her, "I can take them to a park or something next weekend."

"Look, I won't deny she isn't my favourite person but I can put up with her for a few hours once a week." 'Tanaya said tightly.

"What is it you have against her?" Brad asked evenly despite the fact he felt like shaking her.

"She's the reason you and Ren ended up in jail! Or have you conveniently forgotten that fact?" 'Tanaya demanded angrily as she turned in her seat to glare at him.

Brad was silent for a few moments before looking at her once again.

"I done something damn stupid and ended up paying for it okay; you don't really know the full story so don't go judging." Brad said tightly before turning back to the movie starting on the tv.

"If she had just went home and shut up about what had happened everyone would have been better off!" 'Tanaya snapped as she got to her feet and headed to the kitchen to get herself a cool drink.

When she returned a few minutes later Brad was stretched out on his side watching the movie and didn't even glance her way as she sat down once again.

"Next weekend I think I'll go visit Ren while you have your time with your son," 'Tanaya said trying to keep her tone neutral.

"Ren'll be stoked to have a visitor," Brad commented, "you, Brent and Matty were his only visitors while I was inside."

"I might see if they want to go as well," 'Tanaya said quietly then asked, "did her visiting you cause any hassles with Ren?"

"My being the father is what caused trouble,' Brad said with a heavy sigh, "Ren has it bad for her. It hit him hard when she stayed with her boyfriend even after she had sex with Ren at the caravan park. He thought she felt the same way as he did, I guess she didn't."

"She's still with the cop isn't she?" 'Tanaya asked quietly. 

"Look, if Janey coming here is a problem just say so okay; this is your home after all!" Brad said sharply.

"Her coming here isn't the problem, but unlike you I can't just forget what she done!" 'Tanaya said tightly, "Ren, your best mate; the guy who is like a brother to you is still in jail because of her."

"Neither of us are totally innocent; and before you ask, no I don't want to go into it." Brad snapped. Now he knew the full circumstances his actions haunted him.

"So she still got the cop boyfriend?" 'Tanaya asked after a few minutes silence.

"Yeah. Her brother James isn't too happy about it but he reckons she has to work things out for herself," Brad said sounding not to pleased.

"You think he treats little Nicky right?" 'Tanaya asked with concern.

"Janey said if she ever doubted he would treat Nicky right she would be out of there real fast and from what I've seen of him with them he treats them both real good." Brad said quietly without looking at her.

'Tanaya had the feeling that Brad wasn't too happy about the presence of Adam in Janey and Nicky's lives. It wasn't anything he had said or done since getting out of jail, just a feeling she got from observing him when he had talked to Janey about her boyfriend.

"I'll try to be nicer to Janey when she's here," 'Tanaya offered quietly.

Brad turned his head to study 'Tanaya for a minute or two then turned his attention back to the movie. He was staying in 'Tanaya's house until he could get his own place but he was very much aware of the animosity 'Tanaya felt for the mother of his son. This made the weekend access visits very uncomfortable for the three adults and he knew Janey was worried that 'Tanaya may one day take her dislike out on their child.

He had spent twelve months in jail for what he had done and his best friend Ren had another eighteen months of his sentence to go. Brad doubted that his friendship with Ren would ever be the same. Fate had played a cruel trick when Ren had fallen in love with Janey and she had ended up having Brad's son.

'Tanaya looked at Brad when he gave a heavy sigh. She could tell by the look on his face that his thoughts were very dark and tormenting, the urge to take his mind off his problems at least for a while stirred within her.

"You dance?" 'Tanaya asked suddenly.

"What?" Brad asked, she had startled him out of his thoughts and he had missed what she had said.

"I asked ... do you dance?" 'Tanaya said slowly.

"I can if I have to. Why do you ask?" Brad wanted to know.

"How about we ditch the movie and go to one of the pubs? They have live music tonight." 'Tanaya said getting to her feet.

"I don't feel like it tonight," Brad said with a shake of his head.

'Tanaya grabbed one of his hands and pulled in an attempt to get him to his feet, "Come on, I want to go dancing and I aim to get my way!" She demanded as she tried to get him up off the lounge.

"Go ask Brent and Matty, they'll make better company then me," Brad said as he refused to be moved.

'Tanaya let go of his hand and stood with both hands on her hips as she surveyed him for several minutes.

"Either you get up and come out with me or I get to join you on that fold out bed," 'Tanaya warned.

Brad looked up at her through narrowed eyes, he hadn't had a woman since getting out of jail and being around 'Tanaya was stirring up his libido. If she done as she said and ended up on the lounge with him he could guarantee that neither of them would be leaving the room any time soon.

Reluctantly he sat up and swung his legs over the edge of the lounge and got to his feet.

"Well come on then if you want to go out. But I ain't dancing," Brad warned as he looked around for his boots.

"Now that remains to be seen whether you get up and dance or not," 'Tanaya said with a grin.

"I wasn't aware that any places had live music of a Sunday night," Brad commented as he hopped on one foot as he pulled one of his boots on.

"Sunday?" 'Tanaya said dumbfounded, "Sunday! Damn! I was thinking it was Saturday!" she said angrily.

Brad tried to hide the smile he felt coming but his mouth twitched and the harder he tried to control his mirth the funnier it seemed until a hearty laugh erupted from him.

'Tanaya turned around with a frown to glare at Brad but the sight of him doubled up with laughter prevented her from telling him off for laughing at her. She had noticed he had seemed to have lost his sense of humour while he was in jail and to hear him laughing was wonderful.

"So glad to be able to amuse you," 'Tanaya muttered pretending to be annoyed but she turned away before he could see the smile twitching at the corner of her mouth.

Brad heard the hint of a smile in her voice and grabbed her by the waist, tickling her instead of holding onto her. "Laugh at me will you!" he exclaimed as she giggled and squirmed in his grasp.

"Stop it! That tickles!" 'Tanaya giggled as she attempted to get away from him.

Brad felt his body jolt to life as he pulled 'Tanaya against his chest as he attempted to keep a hold of her even though she tried to wriggle free. He felt his entire body tighten as the blood rushed to his groin sending heat pounding through his body. His jeans were suddenly too tight and uncomfortable as his body reacted to the feel of 'Tanaya wriggling against him.

He held her in his arms and lowered his head as he breathed in the light floral scent of her shampoo and the softness that was her unique scent. Realising what he was doing Brad let her go abruptly and moved away from her.

"Hey what the...!" 'Tanaya exclaimed started as she was released suddenly and staggered from the sudden withdrawal of support.

Slowly she turned around to face him. She saw the way he was watching her from heavy lidded eyes, the way his chest heaved with his heavy breathing and realised why he had let her go.

'Tanaya turned away; she knew if she approached him he would reject her outright. But there was more than one way to get what she wanted.

"Well I'll just have to take a rain check on that night out dancing then since it's Sunday." 'Tanaya announced lightly,

Brad watched as she walked towards the kitchen, he shifted slightly when she was out of sight as he tried to ease the tightness in his groin. He wondered briefly what 'Tanaya was up to; he had yet to see her pass up a chance to make him uncomfortably aware of her.

"Want a cold drink? It's only lemon squash but at least it's icy cold." 'Tanaya asked as she came back into the room carrying two cans of lemon squash.

"Yeah sure," Brad agreed taking a can and sitting down once again. He shifted uncomfortably; his body had yet to calm down and he was painfully hard.

'Tanaya sat back in her chair and glanced over at Brad, she was well aware of the state he was in and smiled when he glanced her way.

"You know I can make you feel much better if only you'd let me," 'Tanaya murmured softly.

"What? Don't you think things are complicated enough as it is?" Brad demanded tightly, "You bristle up every time I mention Janey or you see her."

"Are you trying to tell me that helping you release all your sexual tension won't help you? You're ready to explode two minutes after I walk in a room." 'Tanaya said calmly.

"Leave me alone," Brad growled as he looked away.

'Tanaya looked back at the tv broodingly as she opened her can of drink and took a sip. It didn't matter what she tried to lighten the mood between them it always seemed to backfire and make the situation worse. She felt bad about making Brad feel uncomfortable around her yet again.

"I'm sorry Brad, I know I'm only making the situation between us worse but I always seem to end up putting my foot in it and making things difficult." 'Tanaya said into the tense silence after what seemed like forever but was only five or so minutes.

"Maybe I should move over to the sofa at Brent and Matty's until I get a place of my own." Brad said evenly.

"I don't mean to pressure you and I really enjoy your company, please don't feel you have to leave because you're not interested in what I so stupidly keep offering." 'Tanaya said unhappily. She was starting to doubt the reactions she had noticed in Brad. Maybe he was getting aroused but just wasn't interested in her?

"And not many men say no to you," Brad said softly.

"I can handle that believe it or not," 'Tanaya said with a self depreciating laugh, "one moment I tell myself stop it, it'll just cause trouble and the next moment ... my mind screams 'go for it'."

Brad remained silent letting 'Tanaya take her time to say what she needed to. Finally when she didn't say anything further Brad spoke.

"You're a really good friend and at the moment I need all the friends I can get. It seems like the entire town is against me, this afternoon when I picked up the milk at the corner store some woman hurried her school aged daughter out of the shop and away from me as if I was about to turn into the Big Bad Wolf and gobble her up!"

"People act like that thanks to the lies Janey told!" 'Tanaya snapped angrily.

"I have had enough! You are going to get the truth about what happened between Janey and I!" Brad held up his hand to silence her as 'Tanaya opened her mouth as if to speak, " I had helped Janey out of a bad spot with a guy called Wilson and since I though she was Hawk's woman ... I figured she should be grateful but she was just as scared of me as she was of Wilson..." Brad paused for a moment as he took a deep breath. " I stupidly told her to show me how grateful she was to me, I figured she would tell me to stop or say no if it wasn't what she wanted. Janey didn't say stop, and she didn't say no. She was too scared to; Hawk had already done some pretty rough stuff to her for saying no. I guess I always knew in the back of my mind that she wasn't totally willing but somehow I chose not to face the fact. I was gentle with her, made sure she was enjoying what I was doing..."

Brad's voice faded away for a few moments as he struggled to find the words to express himself.

"...Afterwards I realised that she wasn't experienced. I started having doubts about her relationship with Hawk, I just never realised how bad it was."

Brad got to his feet and began pacing restlessly, he turned and faced 'Tanaya before speaking once again.

"I want to know my son and Janey is willing to let me be in his life, hell she wants me to be in his life. After all I done she doesn't hold it against me." Brad said sounding slightly stunned.

'Tanaya sat looking at him speechless, she had never suspected anything like what Brad had just told her.

"I believe you made an honest mistake Brad," 'Tanaya said softly.

"Nicky is not a mistake," Brad bit out between clenched teeth.

"No, Nicky is not a mistake. Nicky is a special blessing that came from a terrible trick of life." 'Tanaya whispered softly.

Brad nodded without saying a word, tears in his eyes. He watched as 'Tanaya got to her feet and approached him silently. Somewhere deep inside him was the fear that she would hold him responsible for what had happened just like he held himself responsible.

'Tanaya walked up to Brad silently, slipped her arms around his waist and leant her head against his chest giving him the comfort of physical contact. She felt him tense at her first touch then gradually relax; his arms lifted and after a moments hesitation he wrapped his arms around her and held her.

They stood in the middle of the room for a long time just holding each other and taking comfort from the contact. 

'Tanaya felt her body begin to respond to the nearness of his body but forced the sensations to the back of her mind. The embrace was about offering compassion and understanding not physical release.

"I think we'd best turn in," 'Tanaya whispered quietly and stepped away from him. For a few moments there she had been tempted to confide in Brad why it hurt her so much to see Janey holding his child; or to even just see Janey knowing that she had given him a son. But that was a secret she held within herself not sharing it with anyone.

" 'Tanaya," Brad called as she turned to leave the room.

'Tanaya turned to face him without saying a word.

"Thanks for listening. I never voiced how I felt until now." Brad said softly.

"I can understand that. We all have our own crosses to bear," 'Tanaya said quietly before turning and leaving the room.

Brad turned and looked at the tv for several minutes not really seeing the movie that was playing, as he was lost in his thoughts. Finally he turned off the dvd player and the tv before switching the light out and climbing onto the pull out bed.

* * * * *

Brad took his key out and unlocked the door as he let himself into the house; he winced as the movement pulled at his shoulders and back.

The house was empty and silent as he made his way to the kitchen for a cool drink before heading to the bathroom to wash the grime of a days work from his body. His shoulders hurt as he removed his shirt and he frowned as he rubbed a hand over the sore muscle on top of his shoulder.

A near accident at work had seen him strain his muscles when a sudden gust of wind had hit the sheets of corrugated iron that he and Brent had been moving. The iron had been torn from Brent's grasp but he had managed to keep hold of his end and prevent the iron from being blown several feet away. Now his back and shoulders were stiffening up but he doubted that there was any real lasting damage.

The flow of warm water from the showerhead felt good on his back and shoulders as he stood beneath the water. After soaking for several minutes longer than necessary he turned the water off and got out. 

In the kitchen he took meat from the freezer and prepared vegetables to cook later when it was closer to mealtime. If he was home from work before 'Tanaya he done the vegies ready for her to cook knowing she appreciated his help even if she refused to let him cook the meal.

Grabbing a cold can of beer he headed to the lounge room to watch tv and relax, hoping his back and shoulders would ease their dull ache.

He was stretched out on the lounge half asleep when 'Tanaya got home, his half empty can of beer discarded when he found a comfortable position and decided not to move to reach for the can.

'Tanaya peered around the paper bag filled with groceries at Brad as he lay on the lounge.

"I came across Matty in the supermarket, he told me what happened at work today. How do you feel? Sore?" 'Tanaya asked.

"A bit stiff and sore but I'll survive," Brad said with a yawn. "I put out the mince to defrost and there's vegies in the saucepan."

"You didn't have to do it but thanks," 'Tanaya called over her shoulder as she headed into the kitchen. She set about putting the groceries she had bought away before checking what vegetables Brad had prepared.

She smiled as she saw he had diced the onion for the mince and the garlic Brad had sat beside it ready to be crushed just before cooking.

'Tanaya went to her room and changed out of her work clothes before heading back towards the kitchen.

"An early tea sound about right so you can get settled before you get too sore?" 'Tanaya asked as she paused in the lounge room.

"That'd be great. Do you have anything stronger than aspirin by the way?" Brad asked as he sat up slightly. 

"I'll be right back with something," 'Tanaya said and headed towards the kitchen.

Brad sat up when she returned with a glass of water and two tablets which he swallowed thankfully. He moved gingerly as he lay back down before she had reached the kitchen door. His shoulders where tight and stiff and his back up between his shoulder blades sore, it had taken quite a bit of strength to hold onto the sheet of iron when the wind had hit it.

'Tanaya set about cooking tea, Matty had told her how Brad had kept hold of some iron rather than let it fly loose in the wind towards where others were working.

When the food was cooked 'Tanaya served up two plates full and carried Brad's food and a cup of coffee into the lounge room to him.

"Why didn't you sing out? I could have come got it," Brad told her as he sat up stiffly so she could hand him the food.

"Just shut up and eat, you won't get pampered like this often." 'Tanaya said with a smile to take the edge off her words.




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 03



Brad ate silently, the food was good and he was hungry but the pain tablets were making him feel sleepy. He finished his food and sipped his coffee thankfully. When 'Tanaya took his empty plate and cup from him he went to get to his feet to help with the cleaning up after the meal but she turned and looked at him with a look that warned him that she would not allow him to follow her into the kitchen.

'Tanaya got the massage oil from her bathroom cabinet and walked into the lounge room, she looked at Brad where he was sprawled on the lounge half asleep.

"Lay on your stomach and I'll give your back and shoulders a massage to try to work out some of the stiffness," 'Tanaya said in a no-nonsense tone as she stood beside the lounge and looked down at him.

Brad glanced up at her for a few seconds then sighed with resignation then settled himself comfortably on his stomach with his shirt off. He had no wish to argue with 'Tanaya or try to dodge one of her attempts at seduction, sore as he was.

'Tanaya settled herself beside Brad and poured some oil into her hand before placing the bottle on the floor and warming the oil between her hands prior to starting to massage his back.

Brad almost groaned with pleasure as 'Tanaya slowly massaged the stiffness and soreness from his shoulders and down his back finding tender spots he didn't know he had.

He turned his face into the pillow as he felt his body begin to respond to the feel of her hands on his back as she worked all the soreness from his muscles.

'Tanaya moved her hands smoothly over Brad's back as she massaged the tension from his shoulders and then started to work her way down his back. She tried to keep her mind on what she was doing and push all thoughts of how her body was reacting to the feel of his skin beneath her hands.

Slowly she worked her way out from the points of his shoulders, down his well-muscled arms to his wrists.

"Turn over and I'll work the soreness out of the front of your shoulders and chest." 'Tanaya managed to say.

Brad gave a deep sigh and didn't move for several long moments. Finally he rolled over onto his back and lay there looking into 'Tanaya's face, his eyes dark with desire.

'Tanaya avoided his eyes as she poured more oil onto her hands and rubbed them 

Brad watched 'Tanaya's face as she worked on the muscles around the joints of his shoulders. Even though his body was taunt with desire he was content to lay there and let 'Tanaya work her magic on his sore muscles. He had to admit she certainly knew what she was doing; most of the pain and stiffness was dissolving beneath her hands as she rubbed and kneaded his muscles.

Brad closed his eyes and relaxed, enjoying the physical contact as 'Tanaya worked. He was nearly asleep when she finished the massage but didn't move or speak as he listened to her moving around. He felt her pull a soft covering up to his shoulders and tuck it in around him lightly.

"Lay down beside me for a minute," Brad said sleepily. "Am I loosing my mind?" he wondered as soon as he murmured the words.

'Tanaya was silent for a few moments as she studied his face, she longed to do as he had said but dare she? Would it break the fragile truce they had at the moment?

Finally she sat on the edge of the lounge and eased into the spot beside him. He sighed as he slipped his arm beneath her head and pulled her against his side gently.

'Tanaya waited for him to make his next move but a soft snore came from him and she turned her head to look at his face. Instead of the disappointment she expected to feel she realised that a feeling of contentment was slowly creeping over her.

"Just for a few moments," 'Tanaya murmured and closed her eyes letting her senses soak up the pleasure of lying beside him.

She could smell the soap he favoured and the scent of the massage oil mixed with the scent that she was beginning to think of as uniquely Brad's. She could hear the soft whisper of his breath as he slept and she could feel the warmth of his body even through the light blanket.

"Just a few moments," she reminded herself.

It was several hours later when Brad woke with the need to go to the toilet, he tensed as he realised there was someone beside him. He turned his head to look and was a little taken back to realise it was 'Tanaya who was asleep beside him.

He tried to ease his shoulder out from beneath her head but 'Tanaya murmured in her sleep and rolled over to throw an arm across his body.

"'Tanaya, you got to let me up so I can go to the toilet," Brad said to her softly.

"Hmm?" 'Tanaya murmured sleepily and raised her head to look around dazedly. "Oh! I'm sorry, I'll go to my bed." She said as she sat up.

" 'Tanaya..." Brad hesitated for several seconds, "..if you agree to take things slow and accept that Nicolas comes first, you be here when I get back from the toilet."

'Tanaya watched as he got to his feet and left the room. She hesitated a moment then got up to turn off all the lights except the lounge room light. She was back on the lounge beneath the blanket when Brad came back into the room.

Brad paused beside the light switch as he looked at 'Tanaya on the lounge in his bed; he raised his hand to turn out the light and hesitated a moment as he debated on the intelligence of the situation. Finally he gave himself a mental shake and flicked the switch to turn the light out.

'Tanaya listened to Brad move to the side of the lounge, she heard him undo his belt and then the rasp of a zipper. There was a faint rustle of material and a faint thud then she felt the edge of the lounge dip as he settled beside her.

"You understand Nicolas comes first, but I don't intend to treat this as a one nighter if we go on from here." Brad said as he looked down at 'Tanaya's face. He thought he saw movement in her eyes.

'Tanaya looked up at Brad as he spoke, she searched his face as he declared that this wasn't a casual fling for him.

"I understand," she murmured softly.

Brad looked down into her face for a few moments longer; he could make out her features but not her expression. After a few second thoughts he lowered his head and brushed his lips against hers lightly.

'Tanaya felt his lips brush against hers. Whisper soft lightly touching her lips, there for the briefest of moments before he lifted his head. She felt his breath brush across her cheek and then his lips brushed against hers once again. She sighed against his mouth as he continued to brush a series of whisper light kisses against her lips, gradually their kisses became more than mere brushes.

'Tanaya felt his lips close over hers and then the tip of his tongue trace the seam of her lips, it was there for an instant then gone. Finally he fitted his mouth to hers, his lips parted and she welcomed his gentle invasion of her mouth.

Brad took his time exploring her lips and mouth before trailing his lips across her cheek to find the side of her neck. 'Tanaya gasped and arched against his body but Brad took his time as he worked down her graceful neck. He cupped one hip in his large hand and pulled her body against his body so he felt her against him from chest to thigh.

'Tanaya moaned as Brad pulled her hard against his body, she could feel his erection against her stomach and tried to wriggle closer.

Brad groaned against her neck as he rolled her onto her back and pushed a muscular thigh between hers.

"I'm not going to last long at this rate," Brad groaned as he moved his hips against her.

"I'm more than ready for you," 'Tanaya said as she grasped his hand and directed it to the clean-shaven place at the apex of her thighs.

Brad stifled a groan as his fingers slid between her folds finding her very wet and softly swollen, ready for his entry. Brad rolled away from her and reached for his pants down beside the lounge.

"Is there anything wrong?" 'Tanaya asked breathlessly, his fingers had felt so good.

"Just getting a frenchie," Brad said huskily. "don't want no extra complications."

'Tanaya bit back her denial of his need to use the condom then realised that he probably felt the need for his own piece of mind. She waited impatiently as he rolled it on and then welcomed him with open arms as he turned to her once more.

Brad moved over 'Tanaya, spreading her thighs wide as he reached down between them. His fingers found the hard nub of her clit and he teased her until she was gasping and wreathing beneath him before guiding himself to the entrance of her passage and pushing against her until he felt the head of his cock slip past her entrance.

'Tanaya gasped and opened her legs as wide as possible, she quivered as Brad once again teased her clit with his fingers and then she began moving against his hips.

Brad clenched his teeth and forced himself to hold still as 'Tanaya moved beneath him becoming accustomed to his invasion. Slowly he began moving in rhythm with her and turned his head to kiss her as she gasped and moaned.

'Tanaya turned her head away breaking the kiss and nipped his shoulder before soothing it with little flicks of her tongue. She felt the vibrations of his slight laugh as he caught her hands and stretched her arms above her head before releasing her arms and smoothing his hand down one side in a long caress.

"Come on," 'Tanaya gasped, 'fuck me hard I won't break!"

Brad hesitated for a moment then reached down to grasp both her hips in his hands; he began to move in long strokes that barely left the head of his cock in her passage before sliding smoothly back into her. Each successive stroke buried a bit more of his cock in her wet tight pussy until he was buried in her his entire length.

He groaned against the side of her neck as he pressed his hips to hers and rolled them producing different sensations.

"Come on fuck me," 'Tanaya urged as he began moving against her once more.

Brad felt 'Tanaya hook her heels behind the back of his thighs as she bit his shoulder again. He caught her chin in his hand and frowned down into her face.

"No more of that! I'm not going to work covered in bites," Brad warned and began to set a rapid rhythm as he found her comfort zone with his size.

"Oh fuck yeah!" 'Tanaya panted as Brad pounded into her, 'that's more like it!"

Brad could feel her envelope him tightly with each thrust, each time he nearly withdrew she clutched at his shoulders and made little growling sounds of passion until he surged back into her and then she gave little breathless cries of pleasure.

'Tanaya clung to Brad as he took her body hungrily; his thrusts were hard and fast. He filled her tightly, stretching her and reaching places none of her other lovers had.

"Oh fuck, oh fuck, oh fuck!" 'Tanaya panted as she lifted her knees higher in an attempt to get him deeper inside her. "I'm gonna cum!"

"Let it happen!" Brad grunted as he began moving faster. He could feel his own climax starting to build, tingling and tightening his balls as it formed.

"Oh Brad! Oh fuck! fuck! fuck!" 'Tanaya gasped and squealed against his shoulder as something tightened in her stomach then rolled over her in waves of intense pleasure. Unable to stop herself she bit down on Brad's shoulder as she bucked beneath him.

"Shit!" Brad yelled as he felt her teeth sink into his shoulder and his own release hit him in waves.

When Brad was able to lift his head and ease from her body he moved to lay on his back beside her. 'Tanaya groaned and made a soft sound of pleasure as she rolled over to cuddle against his side.

"You're not about to bite me again I hope," Brad said ruefully as he eyed the mark she had left on his shoulder. By the morning it would be a decent bruise.

"I'm sorry about that, I don't usually get so carried away." 'Tanaya said softly as she propped herself up to peer at his shoulder.

Brad reached up to pull her down for a long slow deep kiss. When he finally let her go both of them were breathing heavily again.

"I'd better go take care of this frenchie," Brad said as he tossed the covers back and swung his legs over the side so he could stand up.

"I'll keep the bed warm for you," 'Tanaya said in a husky voice as she eyed his naked body from behind.

Brad laughed softly as he glanced back over his shoulder at her, "I bet you will."



Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 04



Brad woke slowly, he lifted his head cautiously to look at 'Tanaya who he was spooning. He looked around for his watch and spotted it on the arm of the lounge; he reached for it slowly trying not to wake 'Tanaya. The numbers on the face told him it was nearly time for him to get up and get ready for work.

'Tanaya moved slightly as cool air slipped under the cover and she frowned as she rolled over and reached for him in her sleep.

Gently Brad lifted her arm from across his lower ribs and eased it back under the covers.

"What?" 'Tanaya murmured sleepily as she sat up abruptly.

"It's time for me to get up and get ready for work," Brad said quietly, "why don't you lay back down and have a bit more sleep. You said you've got today off."

'Tanaya looked at him trying to gauge his mood, was he regretting what had occurred between them?

"No, I'll get up and make the coffee that way I can get an early start on the housework I want to do today." 'Tanaya said as she pushed the covers down to her knees.

Brad spared a moment to take a long look at her naked body before turning and heading towards the bathroom. "I'm just having a quick shower, I'll be out in five." He called back over his shoulder.

'Tanaya watched him go before heading to her room to grab her dressing gown and put it on. In the kitchen she filled the percolator and turned it on before stacking the previous nights dirty dishes in the sink.

The coffee was ready and she was sitting down sipping a cup when Brad came into the kitchen.

"Yesterday Hank was saying we'd only be doing about a half days work today to finish off the job. The crew might be stopping by the pub for a few drinks afterwards." Brad said easily.

"Okay," 'Tanaya said with a nod. She wondered if anything would change after the previous night, so far it had been the same as every other morning except for waking up in the same bed.

"How's your shoulders and back?" she asked after several minutes silence.

"Not as bad as I had expected. A bit stiff and tender when I move but other than that not too bad." Brad said as he began making himself lunch for the day.

'Tanaya watched silently as Brad made his lunch then cooked a quick breakfast for himself. She noticed he glanced at her several times but said nothing so she remained silent not sure of what to say or do.

He ate quickly and stopped to look at the dirty dishes in the sink as he went to place his plate on the sink.

"I'll do them today, no drama." 'Tanaya said from where she sat at the table.

Brad turned his head to glance her way and gave a faint nod, "Okay, but I do all the dishes tonight."

"I'll make sure to use every pan I own to cook tea," 'Tanaya attempted to joke but her lips trembled suddenly and she looked away.

Brad watched her for a few seconds awkwardly; he didn't know what to say. Wasn't sure how he wanted things between them. Last night had happened on impulse and this morning in the light of day he wasn't too sure if they could make things work with his relationship with Nicolas and Janey thrown into the mix.

A loud knock on the front door made both of them jump and Brad shrugged knowing it was Brent or Matty signalling they were out the front waiting to be picked up for work.

"I'd better get going," Brad said as he picked up the small cooler bag that contained his lunch. He hesitated a moment then paused to drop a quick kiss on a surprised 'Tanaya.

"I'll talk to you this afternoon," he promised as he headed for the door.

'Tanaya sat at the table stunned, she had thought that Brad had regretted what had occurred between them the previous night but now she wasn't too sure. She got to her feet with a sigh and looked around the kitchen at the cleaning she planned to do, she headed towards her room to get clothes to change into after a shower. No time like the present to get to work on cleaning.

* * * * * Brad sipped the icy cold beer and sighed with satisfaction; it was the hottest part of the afternoon and instead of work Hank and the crew were enjoying a cold beer at one of the local pubs.

Brad was listening to the flow of talk around the group at the table but he wasn't really taking it in. He had been doing a lot of thinking during the day and had realised it would be really hard to make things work between him and 'Tanaya.

They would just have to take it one day at a time and he would have to see if he could mediate a peace between 'Tanaya and Janey.

"Hey Brad! You listening?" Matty asked as he slapped him on the shoulder.

Brad gave a start and looked towards him to see what he wanted.

"We were talking about the blonde that works behind the bar here, I think Brent has a bit of a thing for her. He comes in here at least once a week, but only when she's behind the bar." Gerry, one of the other workers said.

Brad glanced towards the bar where a rather pretty buxom blonde was serving drinks before glancing at Brent to see his expression. He could read no hint of the other man's thoughts on the matter and turned to Gerry with a shrug.

"To tell the truth I hadn't noticed," Brad said. 

"What's your ex-missus look like?" Gerry asked with a good-natured grin.

"Pardon?" Brad asked slightly confused. 

"Come on, it's all over town. You got your ex-missus visiting you each weekend with your kid. Rumour has it she's not so ex, if you know what I mean." Gerry winked as he finished his statement.

Brad was silent as he stared at Gerry until the other man shifted uncomfortably in his seat.

"There's nothing going on between Janey and I other then me getting to see my son," Brad said in a controlled voice. 

"You're talking about young Janetta Wilkinson aren't you?" Hank said in the tense silence.

"Yeah," Brad's tone was guarded; he had learnt quickly to watch what he said in this small town.

"My oldest boy went to school with her sister and my second boy was a year behind Janey in school, from what I know of the family she's a nice girl." Hank said levelly.

"She's doing a great job with our son," Brad said with a sober nod.

"Janey is really nice. Rather quiet and shy but really nice." Matty piped up in her defence.

"Obviously not too shy," Gerry said with a smirk. He caught Brad watching him without any expression on his face and felt a chill go down his spine.

"That didn't come out right, I didn't mean no disrespect." Gerry said awkwardly.

Brad gave a brief nod before finishing his beer abruptly, "I think I'll call it quits with just the one beer." He said as he got to his feet.

"See you later," Hank said.

"Later," Brent said.

The others were silent as Brad left the table and headed for the front door of the pub.

Outside the hot air hit Brad in the face with a blast. He squinted as he glanced at the sun over the end of the street and headed in the direction of the house where 'Tanaya lived. It was hard to think of it as his home, even temporarily. 

He paused outside the supermarket, thought for a moment then headed inside to get a supply of condoms. He was realistic enough to admit that he and 'Tanaya would probably end up having sex again even though he felt it was smart to end whatever was between them here and now.

Near the checkout Brad found himself picking out a bunch of flowers for 'Tanaya and shook his head with a rueful grin. Flowers and plans to cool the relationship down just didn't go together in his books.

Brad could hear the radio blasting away from the front gate and walked up to the front door with a silly grin on his face. It felt good to be about to walk into a house where his woman was waiting for him.

As he opened the front door he realised it was 'Tanaya's voice singing along with the music and he followed the sound through the house to the kitchen where he found her taking a tray of muffins from the oven.

"I hope they're apple cinnamon," Brad said from the doorway.

"Oh! You gave me a fright!" 'Tanaya exclaimed as she turned around to face him.

"I guess I got these for you," Brad said as he stepped forward and held the flowers out to her.

'Tanaya looked at the flowers with a faint smile, "You guess?"

"Yeah, I just type of picked them up without thinking about it. Then I realised they remind me of you," Brad said awkwardly.

'Tanaya looked at the arrangement of tigerlillies, an array of golden orange and dark brown flowers surrounded by lush dark green leaves. She took them from him and carried them to the sink; the flowers in one hand and the tray of muffins in the other.

"Thank you, they're beautiful." 'Tanaya said placing the muffin tray on a cooling rack and the flowers on the sink draining board.

Brad watched as she put the flowers in a large glass jar and placed them in the middle of the table before glancing at him once again.

"The rest of the guys are down at the pub having a few beers. I had the one beer and decided to come back here." Brad told her.

'Tanaya studied him silently for a few seconds before giving a silent nod; she turned back to the stove and checked a second tray of muffins before speaking.

"So did the flowers come before or after what you got in your hand?" 'Tanaya asked curiously.

Brad looked down at his hands to find that the packet of condoms was clearly visible through the plastic shopping bag. He looked up to find 'Tanaya watching him with what looked like mild interest.

"You probably won't believe me but the flowers have nothing to do with these," Brad said as he lifted the offending bag to waist height, "I got the flowers without really thinking about them. They type of remind me of you." Brad finished awkwardly.

"So the flowers remind you of me? Or do the condoms?" 'Tanaya asked dryly.

"Looks like I really shot myself in my foot doesn't it?" Brad asked sheepishly, he looked down at the floor and then looked up at 'Tanaya once more.

'Tanaya couldn't help but notice the chagrined look on Brad's face, she realised he actually was telling the truth that the flowers had nothing to do with him buying the condoms.

"I don't know about having shot yourself in the foot but it sure looks like you got caught with your hand in the cookie jar," 'Tanaya said evenly, she didn't intend to let him off scot free.

"Well I might go put these with my stuff," Brad said with a self-conscious shrug.

'Tanaya watched as he headed for the spare room where he kept his belongings, she turned back to the muffins and found it impossible not to smile as her gaze brushed over the flowers on the table.

She was still smiling when Brad returned to the kitchen a few minutes later, she was removing the last of the muffins from the oven and humming along to the music that was coming from the radio.

"They look good enough to eat," Brad remarked smoothly.

'Tanaya turned to face him with a grin as she picked up one of the first batch of muffins and carried it over to him, she held it up to his mouth when he reached for it.

Brad tried to take the muffin from her grasp but she pulled her hand away and shook her head.

"Taste it," 'Tanaya urged.

Brad gave a defeated sigh then took a large bite out of the muffin, he almost groaned with delight as the flavour of apple and aroma of cinnamon burst into his mouth.

"We're going to dance," she told him softly as he took the last piece from her fingers, she slipped her arms up around his shoulders and smiled into his face.

Brad hesitated a moment before resting his hands on her waist, they began moving in a slow dance around the kitchen. 

"See, it's not that bad," 'Tanaya whispered as she eased closer.

They swayed to the music. There was nothing overtly gratuitous about their movements or the way they held each other.

'Tanaya's arms rested on his shoulders, her hands behind his neck. His hands stroked her long slender back in slow soothing motions as he held her close. 

Her cheek rested against his chest and his against the top of her head.

And yet, the fact that they were dancing so close, drawing strength and pleasure from each other's body without the indulging in sex was more gratifying.

Brad couldn't understand the feeling of completion he got from merely holding her in his arms even when his body was screaming to sink within her depths.

"Is this the feeling ... no!" Brad turned away with a quick jerk that trembled through his body. 

"Brad?" 'Tanaya whispered in confusion as she swayed unsteadily on her feet after being deprived of his support.

Brad turned to face her uneasily; he saw the confusion and fear in her eyes. He opened his mouth to speak and realised he didn't have the right words to say. 

'Tanaya watched as Brad went to speak and then seemed to think better of it; he turned away without saying a word.

"Brad?" she asked with a sinking feeling.

"Things were just about to get out of hand there, let's just take it one step at a time." Brad said as he took several steps to put some distance between them.

"We were only dancing," 'Tanaya protested.

"I was about ten seconds away from having you either on the table, the counter or against the wall!" Brad snapped suddenly irritated.

"And how would that be so bad?" 'Tanaya demanded.

"We need to take things slowly!" Brad ground out between gritted teeth.

"Okay, so no wild impromptu sex." 'Tanaya said evenly.

Brad eyed 'Tanaya cautiously, was she really going to do things his way or just pretend to play along until she could launch a sneak attack on his defences?

"I got a lot riding on making no mistakes," Brad said sternly.

'Tanaya nodded silently before asking, "Do you think Janey will have a problem with you and me?"

Brad walked over to the muffins and picked one up; took a bite and chewed thoughtfully before finally answering. "Well you have been radiating hostility every time she has visited."

"I can't undo the past but I promise I'll be more friendly towards her from now on." 'Tanaya said softly as she turned away.

Brad frowned a moment but they were going over old ground, things they had already talked about.

"Did you ask Brent and Matty if they wanted to go visit Ren this weekend?" 'Tanaya asked.

"We were pushing to get finished early and it slipped my mind." Brad told her levelly.

"No worries, I'll talk to them later." 'Tanaya said with a shrug as she walked over and helped herself to a warm muffin. "Hmmm... these are good."

"Yeah," Brad agreed and reached for another muffin.

* * * * *

'Tanaya fidgeted in the passenger seat of the vehicle as she watched the scenery go by; she couldn't keep her mind on the trip ahead of her.

"You going to tell me what's eating at you?" Brent asked from where he was driving.

'Tanaya glanced across at him then turned back to the view out the window.

"You been awfully quiet the last two evenings," Matty commented from the backseat, "Is something wrong?"

"No, there's nothing wrong." 'Tanaya said knowing Matty had a tendency to worry about trouble befalling any of his friends.

"Something's going on." Matty muttered in a worried tone.

"Brad just has a serious talk with Janey on the agenda this weekend," 'Tanaya said knowing they would find out sooner or later.

"Is her boyfriend making trouble about Brad seeing Nicky?" Brent asked with a frown.

"Not that I know of." 'Tanaya said and took a deep breath, "Brad and I might be getting a relationship going but he doesn't want to do anything to upset Janey or possibly stop her letting him see Nicky." 'Tanaya burst out hurriedly, she knew of no way to break the news to Brent who was an ex-lover.

"I knew that would only be a matter of time, you've had your sights set on him from before all the shit hit the fan." Brent said evenly. The thought of his ex-lover and still close friend getting intimate with one of his best mates didn't worry him; in fact he believed they would be good together.

"Like I didn't imagine that you and Brad would end up having a thing," Matty said from the backseat.

"Brad's going to talk to her this weekend, see if she has any objections to me being around Nicky." 'Tanaya said softly.

"Don't tell me you been sharpening your claws on Janey behind Brad's back," Brent said in a dry tone.

"No I haven't done anything like that ..." 'Tanaya started,

"But you sure haven't been friendly." Brent finished for her.

"Yeah, something like that," 'Tanaya muttered unhappily.

"Why would you go and be bitchy at Janey?" Brent asked levelly.

'Tanaya was silent for several minutes and neither man spoke; finally she admitted to herself that she needed to talk to Brent and Matty about what had happened between Brad and Janey.

"I thought she had tried to cause trouble for Brad, Ren and you guys. But Brad told me a few things the other day that made me realise I was wrong." 'Tanaya said quietly.

Brent cursed softly under his breath as he slowed the vehicle and began looking for a spot he could safely pull over. When he stopped the vehicle he turned in his seat to look at 'Tanaya with a look that said he clearly doubted her sanity.

"You've been a bitch to Janey while you've been trying to get into Brad's pants! You know how much that boy means to him and yet your doing stuff that could cause trouble when you and he get together?" Brent demanded in a hard voice.

"I haven't been a bitch to Janey and I haven't done anything to her! I just maybe let it show I felt she was to blame for the sentences all you guys got." 'Tanaya said evenly. She knew now that she had made a bad error in judgement but she had no intention of making excuses for herself.

"Janey doesn't like it when you go near Nicky. She watches you real close and looks like she's ready to jump up all the time." Matty stated from the back seat.

"Shit Shantanaya! You got her thinking you're going to hurt her kid!" Brent exclaimed in stunned disbelief.

"I'd never hurt Nicky! You know how I feel about children Brent! You know!" 'Tanaya said desperately in a pain filled voice as she wrapped her arms around her ribs. "I'd never hurt a child, no matter what."

"So Brad is telling Janey that you might be around Nicky a lot more and he has to convince her that you'd never hurt the boy. " Brent said slowly.

"Brad's so wrapped up in being a good father but he's putting his relationship with Janey and Nicky before him and I." 'Tanaya said unhappily.

Brent went still as another thought occurred to him, he turned his head cautiously to look at 'Tanaya and asked, "You have told Brad the full story haven't you?"

"I haven't found the right moment to tell him," 'Tanaya said unhappily.

In the back seat Matty looked from Brent to 'Tanaya and back again; there was something going on he had missed he was sure of it.

"Considering everything that's going on you need to sit down and talk to him about things 'Tanay'. Brad needs to know everything," Brent said firmly.

* * * * *

Brad hurried to open the door; he could see the outline of Janey in the frosted glass and was suddenly desperate to see Nicky. He opened the door and grinned when Nicky instantly reached his arms for him.

"Da, da, da, da, da," Nicky chanted as Brad lifted him out of Janey's arms.

"There you go, here's Daddy just like I said." Janey said with a smile.

Brad cuddled his son close and once again was overwhelmed by the rush of love he felt for the child. When he raised his head from where he had been inhaling the sweet scent of the child he suddenly realised there was no one with Janey.

"You're by your self today?" he asked surprised.

"Yeah, James had to work and I really don't want Adam here glowering all day." Janey said matter of factly.

"I'm glad you feel comfortable enough not to need someone with you," Brad said as he led the way into the house.

Janey looked around as she noted how quiet the house was.

" 'Tanaya, Brent and Matty have gone to visit Ren. They will probably stay up there tonight and see him tomorrow as well," Brad told her. He heard the sigh of relief that she tried to keep quiet and looked at her while he was careful not to let anything show on his face.




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 04



"Looks like you got Daddy all to yourself today Nicky," Janey said to her son.

Nicky frowned and looked around; he was used to more adults around. "Matty?" he queried in his little boy voice.

"Matty's not here today Tiger," Brad told his son.

Nicky wriggled and pushed against his fathers chest; Brad let him down onto the lounge room floor and watched as he crawled quickly towards the small cardboard box of toys kept in the corner.

Janey watched as Nicky reached the box and proceeded to pull out his favourite toys, she walked over to the lounge and placed the bag she carried on the floor.

"Can we sit down? I want to have a talk with you," Brad said as he sat in the recliner chair.

Janey glanced his way curiously but said nothing as she sat on the lounge and turned watchful eyes on their son.

"I know you don't feel comfortable around 'Tanaya and I know I said living here is supposed to be only temporary," Brad started slowly; he swallowed nervously as Janey looked his way with narrowed eyes. "How would you feel about 'Tanaya and I getting together as a couple?"

"I don't want her near Nicky! I don't trust her!" Janey burst out instantly; she looked at Nicky where he sat playing with a ball, attempting to chew it.

"Janey I promise I would never let her hurt him, I don't believe she would either..." Brad tried to reassure her.

"She hates me! I don't trust her not to take her hatred out on Nicky if she was upset!" Janey cut in sharply.

" 'Tanaya doesn't hate you..." Brad tried to explain.

"Oh she hates me sure enough. It's all she can do to allow me in her house. If it wasn't for you she'd slam the door in my face, probably wait until I took a step forward first as well." Janey said in a tight voice.

"Will you let me explain?" Brad asked quietly.

"What is there to explain? 'Tanaya hates me . . . " Janey started to say.

" 'Tanaya doesn't hate you." Brad cut in desperately, he reached out to touch Janey's hand hoping to connect with her on some level but Janey jerked her hand away, got to her feet and moved away slightly.

Brad heaved a heavy sigh and closed his eyes as he rubbed the back of his neck trying to ease his own tension. Finally he opened his eyes and looked up at Janey where she watched him warily. He realised it was just as he had thought, there was no way that Janey would tolerate 'Tanaya in their son's vicinity.

"I promise I won't do anything to put Nicky in danger. I'll make it clear to 'Tanaya that there can't be anything between us and I'll move out as soon as I find a place I can afford." Brad said wearily.

"Are you or aren't you involved with 'Tanaya?" Janey asked stiffly.

"It doesn't matter; I've already told her that nothing will interfere with my relationship with Nicky." Brad said heavily. "Nicky comes first."

A heaviness settled in Brad's chest and a strange thickness grew in his throat as he got to his feet and headed for the kitchen, "Cup of tea?" He called back over his shoulder at Janey.

Janey watched Brad leave the room and moved to where she could see what he was doing in the kitchen, "A cool drink if you have one," Janey told him.

"Water, juice or coke?" Brad asked as he looked at what was in fridge.

"Water will do," Janey said as she glanced back at her son, "You mean you won't have anything more to do with 'Tanaya because I don't trust her and don't want her near Nicky?"

"Look Janey, I know you don't have to let me have anything to do with Nicky what so ever but you're letting me be a part of his life and I have no intention of doing anything to make you regret your decision to let me see him. And I have no intention of doing anything that goes against what you want. " Brad said as he poured a glass of water.

Janey remained silent as she took the glass of water and watched Brad making himself a cup of coffee. She couldn't help but notice he kept turned away from her for most of the time.

"What would happen if things went well between you and 'Tanaya and you had a baby? Would Nicky get pushed aside? Treated like second best by her?" Janey asked softly.

Brad stopped what he was doing to turn and face Janey, "I would never let that happen. Nicky would always be treated the same," Brad said gently.

"I don't want to stop you getting on with your life Brad, I want to see you have more than just Nicky once a week or whatever. Just promise me you won't let anything happen to Nicky because I am his mother not whichever woman you're with." Janey told him earnestly.

Brad stared at Janey for a few seconds not believing what he had heard, slowly a large grin spread across his face and he walked over to where Janey stood watching him with large serious eyes. He kissed her warmly on one cheek and then the other before framing her face with his large hands and kissing her lightly on the mouth.

"Thank you, I can't say it enough," Brad said happily.

"Biss, biss," Nicky chuckled as he crawled over to them, a stuffed cat in one hand.

Janey stepped away from Brad and laughed as she scooped her son up, "Yes Nicky, kiss." Janey said and kissed her son's cheek.

Nicky laughed with delight and leant towards Brad, his little arms outstretched. Brad lifted him from Janey's arms and cuddled him close.

"Biss, biss," Nicky said insistently.

"Nicky wants a kiss too Daddy," Janey said with a smile.

Brad kissed both cheeks for the delighted boy and then blew a noisy raspberry against his neck. Nicky shrieked with laughter and squirmed in his father's arms.

"How could anyone not love him?" Brad asked quietly. 

* * * * *

'Tanaya watched the entry to the visiting area anxiously while Brent and Matty sat on a bench patiently. Finally she saw the familiar figure she was waiting for and smiled with relief as Ren stepped out into the sunlight.

"It's good to see yous," Ren said as he returned 'Tanaya's hug then stepped forward to shake hands with Brent and Matty; he looked around for Brad but made no comment when he saw no sign of him.

"You're looking fit and healthy," 'Tanaya said and it was true. Ren had bulked up slightly during his time in jail but it was all well defined muscle not fat that broadened his shoulders.

"They keeping you busy?" Brent asked as they settled on a seat in the shade.

"Always pretty busy in the kitchens, so it's good when I get visitors and have an excuse not to go in on the weekends." Ren said with a smile.

"Been hot here?" Matty asked curiously, "It's been a stinker the last few days at work."

"Yeah, it's been hot here. We got air conditioning in the kitchens so that helps some. Is Brad still getting a bit of work?" Ren asked.

"Yeah, the boss is keeping him on. He likes hard workers." Brent acknowledged.

"Can't blame him for not coming back here even if it was just to visit," Ren said his voice loosing it's cheer, he was missing his best friend. Had been missing him since the awkwardness over Janey's baby had occurred.

"Janey's was taking the boy to visit him, that's why he's not here." 'Tanaya said gently as if she sensed his pain.

"Does Brad get to see his boy much? Do you see much of Janey?" Ren asked hopeful to hear some news of them.

"She brings him to my place where Brad is staying each weekend and stays for the day so Brad can spend time with Nicky. He calls Brad Daddy now." 'Tanaya said brightly.

Ren nodded and took a deep breath, he glanced at the guard who was wondering around the visiting area and waited until he was out of hearing range before speaking again.

"How's Janey? She well? Still with the cop?" Ren asked almost desperately.

"She looks well," Brent said, "and she's still with the cop boyfriend but she doesn't take him along when she brings the boy to visit Brad. He doesn't seem real happy with her letting Brad see the kid."

Ren nodded without saying anything further.

"Have you heard anything further on the appeal the lawyer is working on?" Brent asked trying to change the discussion.

"No, not yet but it is supposed to be nearly ready to go before a judge soon." Ren said accepting the change of subject.



Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 05



The sound of laughter woke Brad and he sat up hurriedly as he realised 'Tanaya, Brent and Matty were walking into the house. He checked that Nicky was still asleep in the bed with him before getting up hurriedly hoping to get to 'Tanaya and the two men before they woke Nicky and Janey who was asleep out on the lounge.

"Hey," Brad murmured as he walked out of the spare room to find them heading towards the kitchen.

"We decided to come back tonight because we can't visit Ren in the morning, long story." 'Tanaya said as she smiled at Brad hopefully.

"Janey's asleep in the lounge room and I got Nicky in with me in the spare bedroom." Brad said quickly in a quiet voice.

"You did have that talk with her didn't you? How did it go? Is she okay with us or...?" 'Tanaya suddenly broke off with her excited questions as it dawned on her that Brad probably hadn't said anything to Janey for him to be staying in the other bedroom.

"We'll talk in the morning you and I, don't worry. Sorry Brent and Matty but Nicky and Janey are asleep..." Brad said softly.

"Brad? Everything alright?" Janey called in a sleepy voice.

Brad walked to the entrance of the lounge room and looked around the corner, he could see Janey sitting up in the faint light that reached the room from the toilet.

"It's just Brent, Matty and 'Tanaya getting back earlier than expected." Brad said quietly.

"Do you want to bring Nicky out here to sleep with me, so he's not in the way." Janey said softly.

"As far as I'm concerned he's fine to stay where he is." Brad said softly. "He'll be fine, I promise."

Janey looked past Brad's dark form at the end of the room but couldn't see anyone behind him, she wanted to protest Nicky staying near where 'Tanaya would be but knew she had to trust Brad. Reluctantly she lay back down and pulled the covers back up. She heard Brad move away quietly and strained her ears to hear what he was saying to the others but their voices were whisper quiet.

* * * * *

Brad watched as Janey's vehicle disappeared around the corner. It was only ten thirty in the morning but his day with Nicky had been cut short when Adam had appeared and took Janey aside for a private talk.

It didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that Adam was behind Janey having to leave, taking Nicky with her.

Brad had seen the signs of strain on Janey's face and had reframed from asking her to let Nicky stay longer. He didn't want to be the cause of trouble in her relationship even though he believed Adam was all wrong for her.

"You coming back inside?" 'Tanaya asked quietly from the doorway.

Brad turned to face her, hesitated a moment then went back inside; the house seemed empty and silent without Nicky crawling around the rooms laughing and talking to himself in his baby talk.

"You said we'd have a talk today, you'd tell me what Janey said. You did tell her about us didn't you?" 'Tanaya asked nervously.

"Yes I spoke to Janey. She's not too happy about having you around Nicky but she isn't going to make an issue out of it as long as you don't mistreat Nicky. She put several stipulations on it; her and Adam are never to be put down in front of Nicky and when I eventually settle down and my partner and I have children Nicky is not to be pushed aside or treated differently because of who his mother is. They are her main concerns." Brad said quietly.

"Janey is being quite civilised about it isn't she. And after the way I had been acting towards her, I know I wasn't rude or nasty but... I'm so glad Janey is being like she is," 'Tanaya said with a relieved smile.

"Yeah well she is being far more reasonable than I could have hoped was possible; she said she wants me to be able to get on with my life as well." Brad said recalling the long talk they had had when Nicky had fallen asleep the night before.

'Tanaya turned away with a frown as something Brad had said came to mind again, she composed her self before turning to face him again.

Brad stepped forward to enfold her in his arms; he lowered his head and sought her lips with his. He felt her lips part beneath his and plunged his tongue into her mouth hungrily. He absorbed the soft moan that came from her lips as he kissed her thoroughly.

When Brad finally stopped kissing her and raised his head 'Tanaya was clinging to him, one leg wrapped around his as she pressed herself against him. Slowly she opened her eyes to look up at him and found him studying her face with dark hungry eyes.

"So ... so what do we do for the rest of the day?" 'Tanaya asked, her voice thick and husky.

"How about we work on building a relationship?" Brad asked with a grin that spread across his face slowly.

'Tanaya swallowed unable to speak and nodded before pulling Brad's face back down towards hers, she felt his lips brush against hers before he raised his head once again.

"How about we take this to the bedroom?" Brad asked, his voice rough and husky with need. He untangled their bodies enough for him to lift 'Tanaya into his arms and carry her to her bedroom.

'Tanaya noted how gently he placed her on the bed before reaching for the fastenings of her top. She sat on the bed and allowed him to undress her. He paused after each garment taking in the sight of what part of her body he had uncovered.

Brad eased her bra off and leant close to press a gentle kiss where her neck joined her shoulder. He lifted his head to watch as he stroked a large hand across her collarbone before running his fingertips lightly down between her breasts. Her ribs lifted as she took a deep breath and he ran his hand down over them to rest flat on her stomach for a few seconds before reaching for the waistband of her jeans.

'Tanaya licked her dry lips as Brad slowly unzipped her jeans, slowly and gently he worked them down over her stomach. She lay back and lifted her hips from the bed as he pushed the jeans over her hips, one large hand skimmed under her rounded arse raising goose bumps as he leant forward to nibble as her neck just beneath her jaw.

Brad moved down the bed to slip the shoes from 'Tanaya's feet before pushing the jeans from her legs in long slow and gentle strokes. Gently he lifted first one foot then the other as he slipped the jeans off her legs. He slid his hands back up her legs slowly, skimming the outside of her hips and ribs before running his hands up the inside of her arms to her hands, raising her hands up over her head as he stretched out on the bed beside her.

Brad leant over 'Tanaya and kissed her, easing into the kiss slowly as he twined his fingers with hers. He groaned as he raised his head and sat up before pulling his shirt off over his head roughly then reaching for his boots. The boots made solid thuds as they hit the floor and then his jeans and underwear joined them.

"You got condoms in here?" Brad asked as he stretched out beside her once again.

"We don't need them," 'Tanaya said breathlessly as she reached for his shoulders.

Brad groaned and sat up, brushing her hands aside. "I'll be back in a moment," he said as he got to his feet and left the room.

'Tanaya watched the doorway apprehensively until he returned and she frowned when she saw the packet of condoms in his hand.

"Is there some reason I should know about why you insist on using them?" 'Tanaya asked firmly.

"If you mean do I have any disease or is there a possibility I could have then the answer is no, I'm clean. But I don't intend to end up a father a second time because of some mess up with the pill or an implant." Brad said as he sat down on the edge of her bed once again.

Looking into Brad's face 'Tanaya could see how serious he was about this, she decided to let him take the precautions he felt were necessary.

Brad watched as 'Tanaya lay back down and stretched with a wicked smile on her face; he felt his body harden further as he watched her long slender body move sensuously.

'Tanaya watched his face as he stretched out beside her on the bed, she smiled into his face and reached out with one hand to touch his cheek when he remained motionless.

Brad took her hand and pressed the palm to his lips before starting to slowly work his way down her arm towards her elbow.

'Tanaya could feel the heat pooling in her stomach as Brad slowly worked his way to her shoulder then across her collarbone to her throat. His progress was unhurried and it was becoming increasingly obvious that he intended to make the foreplay stretch out as long as possible.

"Enjoying yourself?" 'Tanaya asked breathlessly as Brad trailed kissed up her neck.

"Immensely," Brad said huskily as he shifted to brush light kisses over her eyelids to close them.

'Tanaya ran her hands over his shoulders, feeling the ripple of the muscles beneath the skin as he moved. She tilted her head back to allow better access to her neck as he nibbled a slow path down to where her neck joined her shoulder. She felt his teeth graze her skin lightly then he was soothing the spot with his lips and tongue.

'Tanaya sighed with pleasure as he cupped one breast in one of his hands as his thumb flicked across her nipple making it harden beneath his touch. She arched into his body as his lips found her breast, circling the nipple, teasing her.

Brad laughed deep in his throat before taking her nipple in his mouth and sucking deeply, giving her what she wanted. He felt her body quiver with reaction and he pulled his head back enough so that her breast slipped from between his lips with a moist sucking noise before turning his attention to her other breast.

'Tanaya groaned in frustration, she was a tangled bundle of need and Brad hadn't reached her waist yet. Almost angrily she pushed against his shoulders and Brad laughed as he allowed her to roll him onto his back.

"Think it's funny do you?" 'Tanaya demanded as she looked down into his face.

"Enjoyable, not many women aren't intimidated by my size." Brad said huskily.

'Tanaya reached down between them to take his engorged cock in her hand; she began pumping her hand up and down it. His hips bucked as her hand moved rhythmically.

"So do you mean this ... or the fact you stand head and shoulders above most men and have the shoulders to go with it?" 'Tanaya asked with a cheeky grin.

"Bit of both I think," Brad grunted enjoying what 'Tanaya was doing to him. He watched as she slowly lowered her head to where her hand moved; he jerked in reaction as she dragged the tip of her tongue over the head of his cock.

'Tanaya set to work slowly licking around the large purple head of his cock before working her way down the underside of it. She could feel every ridge and groove as she licked and slurped her way enjoying the task.

Every now and then Brad would groan and jerk or gasp as she found a particularly sensitive area.

'Tanaya worked her way back to the head of his cock and began licking it until she had it wet with her saliva, slowly she began to ease it into her mouth taking care not to let her teeth graze it.

"Shit woman!" Brad growled when her mouth engulfed the entire head of his cock, few women had attempted to do it and fewer had succeeded.

'Tanaya hummed a reply and felt Brad's body tense and shudder under the hand she had on his stomach. Carefully she began working her head up and down, attempting to take as muck of his cock into her mouth as she could.

Brad groaned as he watched 'Tanaya slowly engulfing the top of his cock, her eyes were on his face as her head moved up and down.

'Tanaya managed to get nearly four inches into her mouth before she started to gag and had to stop; she lifted her mouth back along Brad's cock slowly letting her tongue flick over the slick surface before the head slipped from her mouth.

She smiled as she worked her jaw for several moments before moving back up his body to kiss his lips hungrily.

"I guess I should return the favour," Brad said gruffly as he slid one hand down to cup her firm arse and press her hips against him so that his hard on pressed against her lower stomach.

'Tanaya wriggled against his hard muscular body and smiled when he gasped and rolled her beneath him with a guttural groan, she sighed and arched her neck back as he trailed his lips down over her jaw to the soft skin beneath.

Brad took his time kissing and teasing his way down to her collarbone and down over her chest to her breasts. He cupped one breast and rolled the nipple between his thumb and a finger while he pressed kisses to the underside of her other breast.

When his lips closed over her nipple 'Tanaya gasped and clutched his head to her chest as she struggled to catch her breath.

Brad suckled strongly until her nipple was a hard bud in his mouth and then he let it go to turn to her other breast.

'Tanaya eagerly guided him to her other breast and moaned with delight as his lips closed over her puckered nipple and he sucked it deep into his mouth.

"Oh fuck you're good at that!" 'Tanaya exclaimed as each tug at her breast sent pulls from her stomach down to the core of her femininity.

Brad laughed in appreciation against her breast before releasing her nipple from his lips and trailing his mouth and tongue down over her ribs. He circled her navel with his tongue before flicking his tongue in and out of the centre several times.

'Tanaya groaned and writhed beneath him as one hand slid down over her hips to skim across her mound before slipping between her thighs to run down one leg to her knee.

Brad took his time working his way down over 'Tanaya's flat stomach, he kissed his way down to the hairless mound before raising his head to look up at 'Tanaya's face.

"What are you waiting for?" 'Tanaya demanded as he paused for several seconds.

Brad merely smiled and pushed her thighs apart then moved so he knelt between her thighs. He used his fingers to open her labia so he could view her moist and swollen opening before he ran both hands down the inside of her thighs to her inner knees where he drew erotic circles with his fingertips and the tip of his tongue.

'Tanaya moaned as Brad slowly worked his way up her leg from her inner knee; she took a deep breath as he reached the top of her thigh but groaned in disappointment as she felt his fingers on the inside of her other knee.

Desire swirled and flowed low in her hips making her feel empty and throbbing as Brad took his time kissing and nibbling his way up her second thigh.

Brad finally raised his head and looked into 'Tanaya's face as he reached the top of her second thigh. Her breasts were rising quickly as she panted with barely controlled desire and her eyes were so dilated they appeared black.

Brad watched as he spread her soaked folds with his fingers and saw her opening; moisture glistened wetly and 'Tanaya spread her legs wider in reflex. Slowly he lowered his head breathing in the heady aroma of her arousal; he paused a second and then licked the length of her opening in a slow measured move. He placed his tongue firmly just below her opening and then licked in a steady move up the length of her opening and over her clit that was a hard nub peaking out of its hood.

'Tanaya gasped and nearly jerked upright at the first sweep of his tongue; she took several deep breaths and fisted two handfuls of bedclothes as she opened her thighs as wide as they would go.

Brad grinned to himself as he felt 'Tanaya's reaction and moved in for a second sweep of his tongue.

"Oh God!" 'Tanaya exclaimed as her body arched. Brad chuckled sending vibrations through the sensitive flesh between her thighs and she gasped as his tongue flicked across the opening of her passage several times before slipping into her slick passage slowly.

"Oh fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck," 'Tanaya groaned as she felt her hips jerk involuntarily. She could feel her desire tightening in her lower stomach and groaned with pleasure as she lifted her thighs to hook her heels behind Brad's back.

Brad grasped the curve of her hips in his large hands and held her body still as he flicked his tongue deep into her passage before withdrawing it and spearing it into her again and again.

When he felt the walls of her cunt tense around his tongue; grasping as if to pull him further inside he withdrew his tongue and closed his lips over the hard nub of her clit.

"Ohohohoh ...fuckin'ell!" 'Tanaya screamed as her body convulsed in an intense orgasm. She didn't realise it when she clenched her thighs around Brad's head as her body bucked with her release.

Brad continued to suck her clit until her body stopped bucking and he gently loosened her thighs from his head and shoulders. He looked down at her where she lay on the bed beneath him, the odd tremor still shaking her body occasionally.

Brad stretched out on top of her body taking care to support his weight on his elbows as he nestled his hips against hers.

'Tanaya opened her eyes to smile a very satisfied smile at Brad before slipping her arms up over his chest to rest her arms along the tops of his shoulders.

"There's more where that came from I hope," 'Tanaya purred and pulled his head down towards her.

"Whatever the lady wants," Brad murmured before taking her lips with his.

Brad controlled his desire as he kissed her gently; he felt her move beneath him and groaned into her mouth as she brushed against his rigid cock.

Now it was 'Tanaya's turn to laugh as she wriggled her hips beneath him.

"Damn woman! You're going to be the death of me!" Brad groaned as he pulled away from her slightly as he tried to calm his raging desire.

"I aint no delicate thing, fuck me and fuck me hard," 'Tanaya demanded as she hooked her heels behind his thighs.

Brad leant to one side and reached down between them, forcing 'Tanaya to loosen her hold with her legs. He grasped his rigid cock and guided it to her entrance; she was still slick and softly swollen open.

Brad groaned and tried to control his entry as he pushed into her slowly but 'Tanaya would have nothing of it as she thrust her hips up against him.

She groaned in pleasure as he slid deep into her, stretching her tight pussy making her feel impossibly full. She smiled up into his face as Brad groaned once again and she pulled his head down to hers once again.

Brad kissed 'Tanaya hungrily as her lips met his but when she thrust her tongue into his mouth and flicked it in and out in an imitation of the sex act he lost control and began to thrust into her roughly.

"Oh ... fuck yeah!" 'Tanaya almost groaned as she bucked her hips up against Brad's. 'Tanaya hooked her heels harder into the back of his thighs as she gasped and bucked beneath him.

Brad could hear and feel 'Tanaya smothering little gasps and sighs against his shoulder as he pumped into her mercilessly. Even though he had nearly lost control he was aware that 'Tanaya was enjoying the rough sex as much as he was.

'Tanaya bit Brad's shoulder as she felt his balls slapping against the sensitive skin between her cunt and arsehole. She felt him flinch from her teeth and contritely kissed where she had bitten him in apology.

"I'm not ... gonna last long," Brad grunted against 'Tanaya's ear and turned his head to kiss her lips once again.

'Tanaya kissed him hungrily then turned her face away as she panted for breath, "I'm about to cum!"

Brad turned his face into her neck and sucked at the tender skin for several seconds as he felt the tightening in his loins; he turned his face away as the tightening moved to his balls.

"Oh fuck, oh fuck!" 'Tanaya gasped as the tension in her lower stomach became almost unbearable. She pushed her hips up against Brad's frantically as she felt him reach down and cup her arse in his hands.

Brad felt the first quiver in the walls of 'Tanaya's cunt and let go of the control he was trying to keep of his own release. He felt his balls tighten one last time and then the hot rush of release as his cum shot up his shaft to be released deep in 'Tanaya's body. He was dimly aware of 'Tanaya climaxing beneath him; of her gasps and squeals as her hips bucked in his hands against him.




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 05



As Brad felt the darkness of utter release start to descend on him he became aware of the intense feelings of being inside 'Tanaya's tight wet passage.

'Tanaya was aware when Brad rolled onto his side taking her with him, she snuggled against his chest and kept her arms locked around his shoulders. She was almost asleep when Brad started to move and he slid from her body with a soft groan; she could feel that he was still semi hard.

"Tanaya, we need to talk." Brad said in a deep husky tone.

'Tanaya groaned in compliant as he smoothed her hair back from her face; she refused to open her eyes as she felt his fingertips trace across her cheek.

"'Tanaya honey, wake up and open your eyes Sweetheart," Brad coaxed.

'Tanaya reluctantly opened her eyes and looked up at Brad; she smiled a warm smile and stretched so that her body rubbed against his.

"Stop that woman! We need to talk!" Brad said huskily as his body reacted to the sensual slid of her body against his.

"I can think of something more fun to do then talk, we can talk later." 'Tanaya said softly as she ran a hand down his chest and over his stomach to reach for the hardening shaft she could feel against her thigh.

"No 'Tanaya, we talk now." Brad said firmly and pulled the quilt up between their bodies preventing her from touching his growing cock.

'Tanaya opened her half closed eyes and frowned at Brad, he seemed awfully intense and she didn't like the way he could deny both of them when both their bodies were starting to demand more physical relief. She had thought he was attracted to her as she was to him but now she starting to have doubts once again.

"We need to talk. This is serious. I forgot to put on a condom." Brad said with a worried frown.

"Is that all? It doesn't matter," 'Tanaya said easily.

"You know I would stand by you if there was to be consequences but I really don't need that right now. I have to get my life on track for a start and I don't know how another child might affect..." Brad caught himself; he didn't want to go there at present. What he and 'Tanaya had just shared was too precious to have thoughts of another woman interfere just yet.

"I want four or five kids but not just yet, ... but if ...let's just not think that yet. We can cross that bridge if we have to. If we are together in a year or two then maybe it would be time for us to be able to take the chance then, just not yet." Brad stumbled over what he was trying to say.

'Tanaya sat up and pulled her knees up to her chest as she suddenly felt naked and vulnerable.

"It's okay," Brad said as he leant close and rubbed her back soothingly but 'Tanaya jerked away from him and got to her feet.

"I need some time to myself," 'Tanaya said as she grabbed her robe and headed for the bathroom.

" 'Tanaya," Brad called after her.

"Back off Brad, just back off will you!" 'Tanaya yelled from the doorway before disappearing from sight.

Brad watched her disappear and sat up with frustration. "Hell she knows I don't want any further complications!" He thought angrily as he reached for his jeans.

In the bathroom 'Tanaya turned the shower on and stepped beneath the spray, she closed her eyes tight and turned her face up towards the water to let it wash the tears from her face.

Slowly she ran her hands over her body, washing the sweat from her skin. Her breasts were slightly tender from Brad's attentions and her nipples pebbled into hard nubs beneath her fingertips.

Angrily she jerked her hands away from her breasts; her body still craved release even though she had cum twice. She refused to give in to her body's cravings as she reached for the floral scented soap and worked a good lather up between her hands.

The act of washing the sweat from her skin helped sooth her tattered feeling and when she stepped from the shower she was in a much better frame of mind. She was in control of her emotions and felt she could sit down with Brad and have a rational conversation.

'Tanaya wrapped her robe around herself and tied the belt tightly before heading towards her bedroom. Brad was sitting in the recliner in the lounge room as she walked through it and glanced her way with a tight expression when she walked into view.

"I'll be back in a few moments," 'Tanaya said before hurrying towards her room.

Brad didn't reply as he watched her leave the room but went to the kitchen to get himself a cold glass of juice while waited for her to return.

'Tanaya wasn't sure what to expect as she returned to the lounge room in a top and shorts. She looked at Brad where he sat in the chair with a closed expression on his face.

"There's no chance of my getting pregnant just because you didn't use a condom," 'Tanaya said levelly as she moved to the end of the lounge closest to the chair and sat down.

"No type of contraception is fool proof, or should I say fail proof. Hell Janey had an implant when she fell pregnant with Nicky." Brad said unhappily.

"Don't you trust me to take precautions against pregnancy or something?" 'Tanaya asked tightly.

"It's not that I don't trust you ..." Brad tried to tell her.

"Either you trust me or not!" 'Tanaya snapped.

"It's not a matter of trust, it's just that I have learnt the hard way some things come back to bite you on the arse!" Brad said tightly.

"No, as far as I am concerned either you trust me or not!" 'Tanaya said angrily.

"It's not that I don't trust you ..." Brad tried to explain.

"If you trusted me then you would take my word that there won't be a problem!" 'Tanaya snapped angrily as she stood to face Brad.

"I don't want to fight with you," Brad said tightly.

" I got one question, are more kids so important to you?" 'Tanaya demanded.

"Actually yes, I want a family eventually. I want more than just having Nicky each weekend, every second weekend or one weekend a month!" Brad snapped.

'Tanaya turned away from Brad and stood there for a second or two before shaking her head and heading for the hallway towards the front door. She halted halfway to the front door and stalked back to stand just into the lounge room and glare at Brad angrily.

"You want, you want, you want! Everything in a relationship has to suit you! Fuck anyone else in it!" 'Tanaya yelled at him angrily, suddenly she turned away from him. "Well fuck you too!" 'Tanaya yelled suddenly before she rushed from the room and slammed out of the house.

Brad got to his feet hurriedly and turned to face the hallway; he felt anger welling up and after a moments hesitation he walked to the room where his belongings were stored and got his bike boots, gloves and helmet.

He went out the back door and to the shed where his bike had sat for the last few months. Angrily he wheeled it out into the open and suited up for a ride before straddling his bike; it took several attempts before it roared to life and then he rode it out the driveway and onto the street. He gunned the motor as he turned down the street to head out of town. * * * * *

It was well after dark when Brad rode his bike into the driveway he had left earlier that morning. He parked the bike just outside the shed it had been in before he turned the motor off and put the stand down. He had removed his gloves and was removing his helmet when Brent came striding over to the bike.

"Where the fucking hell were you? 'Tanaya has been worried sick because you cleared out on your after you got mad!" Brent snapped.

Brad turned to face his friend but couldn't read his face as there was a light on at the house behind him.

"Where I was is my business," Brad said coldly before stuffing his gloves in his helmet.

"Well when you go upsetting 'Tanaya like you did it becomes my business. 'Tanay' is very special to me and anyone who goes causing her grief answers to me." Brent fairly growled at Brad.

"If she is so special to you then you should move in with her and do whatever she wants to keep her happy. Or are you like Jake is and Hawk was and have Matty bending over for you?" Brad shot back angrily. With the light behind Brent Brad didn't see the rage flash across his face and had no warning before Brent led with a hard left to his mouth.

Brad backed up several steps with shock and the pain of the punch; he spat then wiped the back of his hand across his mouth as he tasted blood before lifting both large hands folded into fists.

"Okay boy, let's see what you got..." Brad snarled as he moved away from his bike and to the side so the light would fall on the side of Brent's face and hopefully show any reactions he had.

Brent lifted both his fists and moved cautiously towards Brad. He knew the other man had more reach then him and greater strength but he figured he was just as good a fighter as the bigger man and stood a better than fair chance.

As Brad moved closer Brent darted in, faked a punch at his chin and landed several quick jabs in his stomach instead. Brad swung an open hand at the side of Brent's head as he stepped back and rocked him on his feet as the hit connected.

Both men circled the other more warily and were unaware as two forms rushed from the back of the house.

"Stop it! Both of you stop it!" 'Tanaya yelled as she reached them.

She would have run in between the two men but Matty managed to grab hold of her and drag her backwards away from the fight.

"Keep back 'Tanaya!" Matty said worriedly as he tried to prevent her getting in harms way.

Brad and Brent seemed unaware of their audience as they moved forward to exchange several more blows.

"Let me go you idiot before they kill each other!" 'Tanaya snapped at Matty.

Matty hesitated a moment but kept hold of 'Tanaya and pulled her back away as the fight came towards them.

"We need to stop the fight before the police are called!" 'Tanaya snapped as several neighbours turned their backyard lights on.

Matty's hold loosened and 'Tanaya jerked free, she ran to where her garden hose was connected to a tap and picked up the nozzle before turning the tap on as fast as it would go. She ran with the nozzle to the two men and turned the cold spray onto them; she directed the spray first at one face and then the other.

Both men backed off slightly and looked her way warily but 'Tanaya gave both men another dose of the cold water and kept the spray running. Brent looked from 'Tanaya back to Brad and earned another dose of the cold water for his troubles.

"Stop it both of you before someone calls the cops!" 'Tanaya snapped angrily. When her order got no result she turned the hose on full and sprayed Brent in the face before turning the hose on Brad as well.

Both men backed away and lowered their fists but their hands were still clenched in fists at their sides.

"Let's go inside. Youse can talk about what ever caused the fight at the kitchen table all civilised or I'll take the broom to you!" 'Tanaya snapped as she turned the spray off and walked to the tap. She didn't look back as she turned the water off then headed towards the house.

Brad and Brent exchanged angry glares before Brent turned and followed 'Tanaya; Brad went to where his helmet and gloves had been dropped and picked them up before heading towards the house. Matty watched the others walk towards the house for a few moments before following them; he had no intentions of getting in between them if they started fighting once again.

In the kitchen 'Tanaya turned to look at the doorway and subjected both men to glares as they walked into the room.

"Brent you sit there, Brad you sit over there." 'Tanaya directed putting the length of the table between the two men in case hostilities broke out again.

"Are you two going to tell me what the hell that was all about or do I have to beat it out of you with the broom?" 'Tanaya demanded angrily.

Brent moved to where 'Tanaya had indicated but didn't sit down until Brad had moved to the other end of the table and sat where 'Tanaya had ordered. 

Brad's remark about moving in with 'Tanaya had really hurt Brent; he still loved her deeply but too much had happened and too many words had been spoken in anger for their relationship to ever work.

"It was nothing, too much testosterone probably." Brent said when Brad failed to answer.

'Tanaya turned her eyes on Brad but he didn't answer as he looped one arm over the back of the chair and stared at the tabletop.

"You're both a pair of knot heads!" 'Tanaya declared after several minutes silence.

"Why stop there Darlin'," Brad drawled, "you know you want to call us worse."

"Don't darling me!" 'Tanaya snapped angrily.

Brent growled low in his throat and Brad glanced his way, Matty cursed under his breath and skittered nervously backwards towards the door.

"Either of you start fighting again and I will make you both regret it! There'll be no more Sunday b-b-ques for you Brent and Brad I'll toss your arse out on the street and you might as well know right now the only other place who'll let you stay belongs to the guy whose face you'd be trying to rearrange!" 'Tanaya snapped as she shook her finger at the two men as if they were children.

"Uh-oh," Matty muttered under his breath as he saw 'Tanaya pointing and shaking her finger at the two men.

'Tanaya turned her head and spared Matty a glare and he ducked his head with a grimace.

"Do you both want to end up in jail? You're both on bonds and you know they'd shove Brad back in jail as quick as blink. What would Janey think if you ended up in jail for fighting with one of your mates? Do you think she'd want you around Nicky?" 'Tanaya demanded harshly.

Brad sucked in a sharp breath and Brent glanced at 'Tanaya with a frown.

"You got your baby and Sky wants you in his life, don't fuck it up." Matty said softly.

"You going to start as well?" Brad asked tightly.

"I know what I'm talking about," Matty said with growing firmness, "I got a daughter out there somewhere. I've never seen her; her mother left my name off the birth certificate and put her up for adoption. All I know about her is she has my dimples."

Brad looked at Matty with a sinking feeling; he had often tried to imagine how he would feel if Janey had had decided not to let him have anything to do with Nicky.

"Hell Matty, I never knew." Brad said softly.

"I was nearly seventeen so was my ex-girlfriend when our baby was born. Maybe her parents made her leave my name off the birth certificate; maybe she wanted it that way. The first I knew that the baby had been born was when she stopped me in the street to talk to me; she'd obviously had the baby and told me she'd put her up for adoption. Said she had fixed it so I couldn't get near her. Before she walked away she told me the baby had my dimples." Matty said in a strained voice, he was studying his shoes as he spoke.

"I don't know what to say mate," Brad said quietly.

"Nothing anyone can say or do will make a difference; just don't do anything that stuffs things up with Sky and Nicky." Matty said seriously.

Brad glanced at 'Tanaya almost guiltily and she glared at him angrily. He noticed that Brent was resting a hand over one of her hands where it sat on her hip, it was almost as if Brent was comforting her. Just the notion made Brad's temper start to rise again.

"I won't do anything that could cause problems for you where Nicky is concerned, you got to trust me on that." 'Tanaya said tightly.

"Sometimes things happen that are out of our field of control and they cause trouble. All I been trying to tell you is we have to be extra careful." Brad said tightly.

"Why can't you just trust me on this?" 'Tanaya demanded upset.

Brent glanced from 'Tanaya who was nearly in tears to Brad and glowered at the other man; finally Brent cleared his throat and Brad looked his way warily.

" 'Tanaya would never do anything that could cause you to loose touch with your kid because she knows what it's like to loose a child," Brent said tightly.

"Brent!" 'Tanaya snapped angrily but it had no effect on Brent as he held Brad's gaze levelly.

Brad looked at the way 'Tanaya was now holding Brent's hand and he narrowed his eyes in distrust, was there something going on between Brent and 'Tanaya?

"Just how many men are you sleeping with?" Brad snapped before he thought wiser of it.

Brent growled almost feraly as he released 'Tanaya's hand and launched himself along the table at Brad. 'Tanaya screamed with fright and took an involuntary step backwards as the two men met with an audible thud.



Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 06



'Tanaya paced backwards and forwards agitatedly in the kitchen for several minutes as she tried to work out what to do and say. Brad was leaning back against the sink watching Brent who was standing just outside the kitchen doorway in the dining room.

She couldn't believe that the two men had actually come to blows in her house; they had only stopped when she had managed to get in between them. Matty had grabbed Brent and pulled him back away from Brad where he was sprawled on the floor while she had literally sat on Brad to stop him getting to his feet and going after Brent.

'Tanaya glanced at her kitchen table where it sat canted to one end. One leg slanting back under the table broken while the other leg was bent at an angle semi detached. The chair Brad had been sitting in was on the floor with the seat broken and the front legs folding in towards the underside of the seat.

"I don't believe it! Youse have broken my kitchen table! And that chair ... that chair is fucked!" 'Tanaya exclaimed angrily.

Brad touched the back of one hand to his bottom lip and pulled his hand away to look at the smear of blood it now sported. He sent a dark glare at Brent where he stood in the other room and Brent grinned back savagely.

"You got it wrong with what you're thinking about Brent and I," 'Tanaya snapped at Brad.

Brad didn't make a reply but he had realised he had it wrong the moment he had been uttering those damned words. Some instinct had told him that 'Tanaya wouldn't have reacted to his lovemaking like she had if she had been involved with another man as well.

"'Tanay' and I share a history. We share something that nothing can diminish." Brent drawled baiting Brad.

'Tanaya turned to glare at Brent but he was busy watching Brad and didn't see the rage and hurt on her face.

"Oh I already figured that out," Brad said insolently.

Brent frowned in anger but glanced away from Brad as 'Tanaya stamped a foot hard with a harsh sound of anger.

"Brent!" 'Tanaya said angrily, she took a deep breath before continuing more mildly, "Matty, go back to your place. I need to talk to Brad and sort this out, once I've said what I have to say then he can please himself whether he stays or gets the fuck out!" 

Brent hesitated a moment as 'Tanaya met his eyes and there was a moment of silent communication between them before he turned and headed for the front door.

'Tanaya waited until she heard the front door close behind Matty and Brent before she turned her attention back to Brad.

He was still leaning back against the sink but he kept touching his bottom lip with his fingers gingerly.

'Tanaya pulled an unbroken chair from under the intact end of the table and pushed it towards Brad roughly before sitting down on a chair herself.

"Sit down and shut up and let me say what I got to say. I'll start at the beginning so you can understand everything," 'Tanaya commanded and looked away out the kitchen window at the clouds that were slowly drifting across the blue of the sky.

Brad moved the chair clear of the table that was kneeling like an injured behemoth and sat down gingerly; he watched 'Tanaya warily until she turned her face back towards him.

Her expression was tight and closed as she looked past him and focused on the wall behind him. It was clear that what she was about to tell him pained her greatly.

"I runaway from home on my thirteenth birthday. My mother was part American Indian among other things but that was the heritage she liked to claim; looking back I guess to her it explained her weaknesses. She was an alcoholic who brought home whatever drunken man she was with at the time. I was feeling particularly put upon on my birthday, she was drunk and the bastard she was with didn't like me in the flat when he was there ..." 'Tanaya's voice trailed away for a moment and she cleared her throat before continuing,

"...I went to my best friends place but she was out with her parents for the weekend and only her big brother was home ... I wont go into details but I stayed in his room with him for the weekend and he relieved me of the burden of my virginity. He left for his home in the next town on the Monday, went back to a wife he hadn't bothered to tell me about.

I can't say if it would have made a difference if I had known he was married at the time but he was. I snuck home, grabbed my gear and cleared out. I lived on the streets most of the time for the next year and a half, stealing, going to refuges, whatever I had to do to survive.

My friends brother came across me one weekend, he'd split from his missus and decided on the spot he wanted me.

To cut a long story short I lived with him for nearly six years ... it was bad at times but at least he wanted me and I wasn't on the streets..."

"What's all that got to do..." Brad started to ask.

"I said sit down and shut up! Just listen, while I got the strength to tell you everything!" 'Tanaya snapped and turned away for a few seconds, she took a deep breath then continued.

"Then I met Brent and I left Robby, we were together about three months when Robby found me and dragged me back with him. He belted me so badly I lost the baby I was carrying, I hadn't even known about it until I ended up in hospital from the beating Robby gave me. When I got out of hospital and healed some I ran away, found Brent and we kept running and hiding. I ended up pregnant again, Brent and I were thrilled but we had to stay in one place ... I was too sick to keep moving. I was only about two weeks away from my due date when Robby found me..."

'Tanaya broke off for a few moments and seemed to be finding it hard to swallow.

"Robby had a gun and said if I didn't go with him he'd kill Brent when he got back from work, he made me write a note saying I didn't want him following me and then dragged me to the town where he lived. I knew Brent would look for me no matter what.

Ro...Rob...bee ...Robby was so rough with me that ... my ...I... my water broke while he was fucking me; he refused ... to take me to a doctor or hospital. I ended up having my little girl by myself ... on the bathroom floor. Three days later a neighbour rang the police on us. Robby kept yelling and threatening me because little Amy wouldn't stop crying.

The police called an ambulance; Amy and I were rushed to hospital. Amy had caught an infection from being born on the bathroom floor and I had an infection because not all the afterbirth had come away. While I was in surgery ... Brent had found us and rushed to the hospital, he was holding our little girl when she died ..." 

'Tanaya broke off with an audible sob but jerked away when Brad tried to take her hand. She met his gaze with anger filled eyes and looked away once again before continuing.

"... when I came around the doctor said it is very unlikely I will ever be able to have another child because of the damage the infection did and then I found out about my Amy. I blamed Robby but most of all I blamed Brent for not being able to find us. I said a lot of horrible things to him and hated him every time I saw a baby or a small child. Then I met Rory in a bar and woke up one morning in bed with him and sober.

When Amy died something in me died as well, the part that let me love another person. Well I thought it had until I watched some big brute of a guy watch his mate's back while he kicked the arse of some bastard and then I found I had started feeling again."

Brad sat in silence for a few minutes not sure what to say or even if there was anything he could say. He bowed his head and felt tears start to flow down his cheeks. He didn't try to stop the tears as he cried for the little girl who had died before she should have and he cried for the pain 'Tanaya must have felt.

"I can't give you more children but I would never do anything that endangered you seeing Nicky." 'Tanaya said softly.

"You don't hate Brent any longer," Brad said quietly.

"No I don't. I've made my peace with him and every year we go and put flowers on our daughter's grave." 'Tanaya said very faintly. "That bond is still there but I don't love him, at least not that way. I still hate the fact he got to say goodbye to our daughter when I never did; she was buried before I recovered from surgery and the infection."

Brad nodded his head and raised his head to meet her eyes.

'Tanaya smiled a watery smile and Brad got to his feet slowly; he could still feel the wetness from his own tears on his face as he held a hand out to 'Tanaya.

'Tanaya hesitated a moment before letting Brad take her hand and gently tug her closer. She closed her eyes and leant her head against his chest as she realised she was trembling with remembered emotion.

Brad closed his arms around 'Tanaya and shut his own eyes as he held her gently. Suddenly so much about 'Tanaya that had troubled him made sense; she flirted incessantly with men because she had no self-confidence. Never having had a chance to grow emotionally because of a dysfunctional family and then an abusive relationship. She no doubt believed herself un loveable.

Of course she would feel threatened by Janey. Not only was Janey quite beautiful but she also had his son; something 'Tanaya would never be able to do.

"My brave and beautiful woman," Brad murmured softly.

"I'm not either," 'Tanaya denied and Brad could tell she really believed it.

"Well to me I see you as beautiful and you just showed me how brave you are," he said softly before he brushed a kiss beside her mouth. "and sexy as hell."

The next kiss was slow and sweet, gently brushing lips together in long lingering caresses. When Brad finally lifted his head 'Tanaya was clinging to him and he slipped an arm behind her knees to scoop her up into his arms and carry her to her room.

'Tanaya rested her head against his shoulder as he carried her into her room and placed her gently on her bed; he knelt at the edge of the bed and gently lifted her face to meet his eyes.

"Have you had something to eat?" He asked her.

"I'm fine, I had a sandwich earlier. Are you hungry?" 'Tanaya asked as she went to get off the bed.

"Don't worry about me, I'm not hungry for food." Brad said huskily as he sat on the edge of the bed. "Do you feel up to talking more?" he asked softly as he took hold of both of her hands.

"Not really but I think we really do need to talk about things more," 'Tanaya said as she lay back against her pillow with a sigh.

Brad brushed his thumbs over the back of her fingers as he tried to make out her expression in the dim light. He released her hands and got to his feet slowly; he was starting to feel the results of the fights with Brent.

"I'll just go and get us some cold soda's and then come back. Is there anything you want?" Brad asked softly.

"Just for you to hurry back and hold me," 'Tanaya said softly.

Brad heard the vulnerability beneath her light tone and reached out to give her hand a slight squeeze before he hurried off to lock up for the night and grab the drinks.

'Tanaya quickly skimmed out of her clothes and slipped beneath the covers; she was aware of how fragile her position with Brad was. She knew that sometime in the future he would meet someone who could give him children; fall in love with them and then he would walk out of her life. She intended to make sure she had plenty of memories to keep her warm once he left her.

'Tanaya remained awake in Brad's embrace long after they had stopped talking and he had fallen asleep. She couldn't credit that he was still interested in her even after they had talked about how she had survived as a teenager and her inability to have more children.

'Tanaya had not long drifted off to sleep when Brad began to stir and wake for the day ahead. Seeing 'Tanaya asleep and the dark smudges under her eyes he climbed from the bed; tucked the covers around her carefully and set about preparing for a day of work. As he was leaving he walked quietly into the bedroom and whispered to 'Tanaya he was leaving for work, she didn't stir as he brushed a light kiss on the corner of her mouth before leaving the room.

* * * * *

Brad glanced across at Matty and Brent where they were gathering their esky's for lunch. They grabbed discarded paint tins to use as seats and headed to the patch of shade where he sat.

"Boy am I glad it's not as hot as yesterday," Matty said as he set his paint can down and sat on it with a relieved sigh.

"Yesterday was a bit on the hot side," Brad agreed.

Brent sat down without making a comment and opened his esky; things had been tense between the two men for the last three days after the fights at the weekend.

"Janey is trying to set up Nicky's christening so it's at the little country church just outside of town. Her normal Father from her church does a service there once a month." Brad said before taking a bite of his sandwich.

"When would it be? I'd like to go if that's okay with Janey," Matty said.

"It'll be in three weeks if the minister is willing," Brad answered and spared a quick glance at Brent.

Brent met his eyes but didn't say anything; Brad knew he still had reservations about the things that had lead up to the fights between the two of them.

"Do you think her boyfriend will object to having the christening there?" Matty asked with a frown.

"Only if he knows I'll be there." Brad answered in a clipped tone.

"Of course he doesn't want you near his woman," Brent spoke up at last.

"If he was half as smart as he thinks he is then he would realise that I'm not a threat to his relationship with Janey." Brad said with a shake of his head.

"Maybe it's not you he's worried about but whether or not Ren will be around when he gets out." Matty said quietly.

A rueful smile curved Brad's lips at the though, "Oh I think we can safely bet Ren will be around when he gets out. And it won't be where his friends are that will be influencing him, it'll be where the woman he wants is." 

"Be interesting to see if Janey stays with the boyfriend or gets with Ren." Matty said quietly.

"Things seem pretty solid between her and the boyfriend even though he's a bit of a waste of space." Brad said evenly.

"You obviously hadn't been paying that much attention to the way Janey acts then," Brent said almost sounding pleased.

Brad looked his way with a puzzled frown.

"Janey always is so tense when he's around, like she has to watch every move she makes." Brent commented.

"Talking of Ren has 'Tanaya heard when his appeal goes before the court yet?" Matty asked.

"A hearing date has been set for the week after next, 'Tanaya is going to make sure she has the day off so she can go as moral support for him. I plan on going if I'm not working as well." Brad said.

"Have you thought about seeing if Janey would go up to the prison farm and let you introduce Nicky to Ren?" Brent inquired.

Brad gave a snort of amusement before speaking, "Do you honestly think her boyfriend would let her go near the jail to visit when Ren's there? I don't think he'd let her out of his sight if he even suspected it might be on the cards, and I'm not sure what James would say about it. Her brother has supported her in all her decisions even when he hasn't agreed with them." Brad pointed out.

"Yeah, James is a cool guy." Brent acknowledged.

"What are you lot gossiping about?" Gerry asked as he walked over from where he and his two friends had been eating.

"Nothing much," Brent said casually.

"So tell me Stanton, who was that sexy little blonde you took to the supermarket on Saturday? I mean the chick you're shacked up with is hot but that blonde, now she is a different story." Gerry said and gave a wolf whistle.

All three men got to their feet and Hank hurried over as if expecting trouble.

"Ready to go back to work are we?" He asked as he glanced at the stormy expressions on the faces of Brad, Brent and Matty.

"Yeah boss, ready when you are," Brent said stepping between Brad and Gerry and breaking the eye contact between the two of them.

Hank watched his crew go back to work, he was aware of the growing problem between Gerry and Brad. Gerry had worked for him for three years and had a reputation around town as a bit of a bully, picking on those weaker than him. And although Hank had only known Brad since he had started working for him nearly a month ago he considered Brad a bigger asset to his work crew then Gerry. Hopefully it wouldn't come to having to fire one of them to prevent trouble in the crew.

* * * * *

'Tanaya unlocked her front door and walked into the house, the air inside was hot from the day's heat and she went around opening windows to let the cool evening breeze work it's magic on the stuffy house.

With all the windows open she went to the kitchen and put the peculator on and buttered herself a cinnamon bun while she waited for the coffee to be ready.

The faint odour of burnt meat reached her and she wondered who could be b-b-queing this early in the afternoon.

The percolator stopped and 'Tanaya poured herself a cup of the fragrant brew, topped it off with milk and sugar and took her bun and fresh coffee out to the back porch so she could sit and relax.

The shade from the garage was turning the lawn into a pleasant place to sit in the evening as 'Tanaya settled herself in a plastic chair and leant back to relax. Again the burnt meat smell reached her and 'Tanaya looked around her neighbours backyards curiously wondering who was cooking out and making a mess of it.

A strange flickering light in the kitchen window of the house next door was all she noticed and she turned her attention back to her drink. A prickle of unease ran down her spine and she turned to look at the window once more.

The light seemed to have grown brighter and with a sudden shock 'Tanaya realised she was seeing flames licking at a stove across the far side of the room. Jumping to her feet 'Tanaya raced into her house to the phone, she picked it up and dialled 000. Hurriedly she talked to the operator and got put onto the fire department. 

With the fire department notified 'Tanaya ran out the front door to the neighbouring house and pounded on their front door, when there was no answer she raced along the far side of the house to the back of the house. The back door was open but the screen door shut and she peered into the smoke filled interior worriedly.

"Mrs Brinkley! Mrs Brinkley! Are you all right! Mrs Brinkley!" 'Tanaya yelled frantically.

"Has anyone called the fire brigade?" The owner of the house on the other side asked as he huffed and puffed to the back of the house.

'Tanaya looked around and noticed with a start that there were several people there now. "I called before running over here. Does anyone know where Mrs Brinkley is?" 'Tanaya demanded.

"Gloria said she was going to cook Gerald a roast for tea. Said she was going to put the meat on and have a nap before adding the vegetables. Oh dear! I hope she's not at home." The wife of the fat neighbour said as her hands fluttered in near panic.

"Mrs Brinkley! Mrs Brinkley!" 'Tanaya resumed yelling at the doorway. There was a sinister crackle coming from inside and the distant sound of sirens before the loud shattering of a glass window made everyone jump.

For a moment 'Tanaya fancied she could hear someone calling from inside the house and she glanced around the people who stood around the backyard. Several of the men had the garden hose running and were trying to hose the kitchen window but the heat was keeping them well back. Again 'Tanaya fancied she could hear the faint sound from inside and the woman beside her gasped in shock.

"Oh no," She moaned softly in horror.

'Tanaya ran to the clothesline and yanked a towel from the line then ran to where the men where hosing the side of the kitchen futilely. "Here! Wet this!" 'Tanaya demanded as she grabbed at the hose.




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 06



The man holding the hose done as he was ordered before turning back towards the flames coming out the window.

'Tanaya ran back to the rear door and jerked it open using the wet towel as a glove before throwing the towel over her shoulders and holding a wet cover over her mouth and nose. She could hear people yelling at her as she rushed into the smoky room and dropped almost to her knees as she listened for the faint voice she was sure she had heard.

The smoke made her eyes burn and her lungs smarted even with the damp towel. Ruthlessly she moved further into the house refusing to think about what she was doing.

"Help me...someone...help me!" the voice was faint and racked by coughs as 'Tanaya scurried forward.

The heat reached out with red-hot fingers and seemed to almost scorch her skin on her face and hands as she headed for the faint voice near the ominous crackling sound. 'Tanaya wasn't really sure of what she found at first as her fingers touched something knobbly and rough, then she made out the shape of a hand and searched for an armpit.

The heat was intense and seemed to press down on her as 'Tanaya struggled with the dead weight of Mrs Brinkley. She managed to get a hold on her but realised she would have to let go of the corner of the towel she was using as a mask if she was to be able to move the woman.

Gasping a last breath of the hot air through the wet towel 'Tanaya dropped the corner and began dragging the inert body back towards where she believed the door was. The heat and the smoke combined to make a deadly combination that dazed the senses and soon had 'Tanaya gasping for breath. She paused as she coughed and choked, trying to get air into her starving lungs before trying to head towards the door once more.

Finally she bumped something with her feet, she was dimly aware of something red hot burning her feet and then she was being dragged out of the smoke filled air. 'Tanaya struggled weakly as she lost hold on Mrs Brinkley and then she was choking as she tried to breath the fresh air outside.

'Tanaya felt herself being carried by two people clear of the house; she wanted to protest but didn't have the strength or oxygen to speak. Every breath was torture as she coughed her lungs full of smoke; someone pressed a mask over her face and she struggled as she continued to choke.

"Keep the mask on, it'll help you to breath." Someone ordered near her ear.

'Tanaya struggled to open her eyes but they stung as if red-hot embers were buried in her skull.

As if sensing her distress someone soothed her face with a damp cloth and 'Tanaya winced as her cheeks, forehead and the bridge of her nose stung. Whatever she was laying on moved and she grabbed at the ground with stinging hands.

"It's all right, we're taking you to hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation, I'm Anthony, an ambulance officer. Try to relax."

'Tanaya tried to nod but she was racked by a rasping cough as she tried to breath; she was dimly aware of a sharp pain like a thick pin prick in the back of her hand. She tried to jerk her hand away but it was held steady and someone was talking to her in a soft voice. Unable to do more then cough and choke as she tried to breath slowly and evenly she was barely aware of the ambulance starting to move.

* * * * *

"Holy shit!" Hank exclaimed as he turned into the street where Brent, Matty and Brad lived. The road was closed and two fire trucks appeared to be parked outside the house where he picked up the three men.

"What the hell's going on!" Brent exclaimed as he looked through the front window to see the fire trucks, one of which was parked on 'Tanaya's front lawn.

"I can't get any closer," Hank said as he was stopped by a fireman directing traffic.

"Let me out!" Brad demanded as he reached over Gerry to jerk the rear door open.

Both Brad and Brent climbed out of the vehicle fast, leaving Matty to follow with the lunch esky's. Brad took off up the street at a run dodging the police officer who would have stopped him.

"He lives where the fire truck is parked on the lawn," Brent said as the police officer stopped him.

"The fire was in the other house. You might want to get up there with your mate, the woman who lives in that house ran into the house that was on fire..."

Brent didn't wait around to hear the rest of what the officer had to say, instead he raced after Brad with his heart in his throat.

Matty was stopped by the police officer and when he identified himself and where he lived he was allowed past but with strict instructions not to go near the fire scene.

Brad raced around the back of the neighbours house looking for 'Tanaya; the fire brigade was still checking to make sure they had the fire out properly and the neighbours were standing around in stunned groups.

"Where's 'Tanaya, the woman that lives over there," Brad demanded of one group as he barged up to them.

Several people turned stunned faces to him and finally one man more collected then the others spoke.

"They've taken her to hospital, she was in the house." The man said.

Brad swallowed hard and headed towards one of the fire fighters, surely the guy had it wrong. Brent came up beside him as he approached the fire fighter who appeared to be in charge.

"Excuse me but the woman who lives next door, is she here?" Brad demanded harshly.

"Hold on there young fellow," the chief fire fighter said, "who are you looking for?"

"Shantanaya Redwolf, the woman that lives next door. About five ten, black hair, dark brown eyes," Brent said describing 'Tanaya.

"Oh yes, I know who you mean. The young lady has been taken to hospital suffering smoke inhalation and burns, if not for her the woman who lives here would most likely be dead." The fire chief said.

"The hospital here in town?" Brad demanded.

"Yes ...hey wait! Can you give some details to that police officer over there!" The fire chief called after Brad but he had already left the yard to jump the fence and head for the garage where his bike was housed.

"I'll give the officer all the details I can," Brent said and headed towards the police officer indicated.

Brent really wanted to go to the hospital to see 'Tanaya but someone should talk to the police officer and give what details they could. He knew that Brad would make sure he got in to see 'Tanaya. Giving a sigh of frustration Brent began talking to the officer barely noticing when Brad roared out of the next-door yard on his bike in a hurry.

Brad rode through the town quickly and headed for the hospital parking lot; he parked his bike not far from the front door and hurried inside looking for the emergency department.

Brad found himself forced to wait in the waiting room until 'Tanaya was put in a room in one of the wards near the nurses desk. When he finally was allowed to go into the room to see her he walked into the room with his heart in his throat.

'Tanaya lay motionless in the bed with an oxygen tube beneath her nose. There were singed patches in her hair and her face had the shiny look of heat scorched skin. 

Brad settled into the chair beside the bed as noiselessly as he could and just sat there watching the bedclothes rise and fall rhythmically with her breathing. Now and then she coughed slightly but she didn't stir or wake.

Brad ran his eyes down over what he could see of her face and body. One side of her head had more singed hair and there was a light dressing of gauze on her right hand.

"I'm here Darling, I'm here." Brad said softly.

'Tanaya moved slightly in her sleep as if she heard him, a slight frown marring her brow for a second before she sighed softly and seemed to ease into a deeper sleep.

Nearly an hour later Brent and Matty came to the doorway very quietly, Brad turned his head at the slight noise and got to his feet and went to the doorway; the three men went out into the hallway so they could talk without disturbing 'Tanaya.

"How is she?" Brent asked with a worried frown.

"She's sleeping at the moment, which is good. Lets the body recover. She has one or two minor burns but nothing serious, just mainly a mild case of smoke inhalation and exhaustion." Brad said quietly.

"We locked the house up for youse. We're going to get some tea, you coming or do you want us to bring something back for you to eat?" Brent asked.

"I should go eat and get some sleep, it's not likely she'll wake up tonight but I want to stay here with her, just in case." Brad said worriedly.

"Okay, you stay here and we'll bring a feed back for you but at nine you're going back to the house to get some sleep. You won't do 'Tanaya any good if you're exhausted from sitting up with her all night." Brent said firmly.

Brad looked back towards the hospital room with a worried frown; he wanted to be here when 'Tanaya woke up but commonsense also told him she would need his help over the next few days until she recovered.

Brent also looked towards the hospital room and even though he wanted to be in there with 'Tanaya he knew that it was Brad she would be wanting to see when she woke up. The kindest thing he could do for 'Tanaya would be to take a step back and let Brad be there in the morning.

"We'll be back shortly, you go make sure 'Tanaya sleeps." Brent said quietly.

Brad didn't give his friends a second look as he turned and headed back into the room where 'Tanaya was. He sat in the chair at her bedside and once again watched as she breathed steadily. 



Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 07



Hi to all the readers, here is the next installment of Brad and 'Tanaya's story. I think there will only be another 1 or 2 chapters of the story and then I will have to turn my attention to Racers which I have neglected for far to long.

MYGYPSY

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

'Tanaya limped into her house and looked around almost expecting there to be a mess since she had been in hospital two nights. Along with the smoke inhalation and a slight burn on her right palm she had a second degree burn on the arch of her right foot from where her foot had touched the metal screen door on her way out of the burning building.

Brad hovered at her side anxiously and she let him guide her to the lounge to sit down.

"Is there anything you want? Or need?" Brad asked, "A drink, something to eat? A book or magazine?"

"How about you put on a movie or something and just sit down and hold me? I missed you terribly the last two nights." 'Tanaya said with a smile.

"You think you missed me? Let me tell you I missed you badly, this house is like a tomb without you here." Brad said as he put a DVD into the machine and switched on the tv.

'Tanaya watched Brad as he started the movie and made his way back to the lounge. She snuggled against his side as he sat down beside her and turned her face towards the television; she wasn't really watching the movie as she listened to the rhythmic sound of his breathing.

Brad cleared his throat and glanced down at 'Tanaya where she rested her head on his shoulder.

"I know you've said you can't have children, and I know we been over this before you were in hospital but is it certain you can't have children?" Brad asked quietly and he felt 'Tanaya tense beside him.

"Brent and I tried to for another baby for nearly six months before we broke up and I was with Rory for nearly four years and I wasn't using any birth control; he has two kids with his ex but I didn't get pregnant. I went to several doctors and one doctor done some tests and shit...told me the infection fucked everything up inside me. " 'Tanaya said quietly.

"I was just thinking is all, maybe there might have been some way for you to have a child one day." Brad said softly.

"It took some doing but I finally faced the fact I can't have children. If you want kids you'll have to find someone else." 'Tanaya said stiffly.

"I got you and that's the main thing for now. Maybe if we wanted kids some time in the future we might think about fostering or adoption but at the moment I am only too happy to know that we are together; the thoughts that went through my head when I saw the fire truck on the front lawn..." Brad's voice trailed off and he swallowed as if something was stuck in his throat.

"Well you're stuck with me, at least for now." 'Tanaya said lightly.

Brad made a noise deep in his throat and leant close to kiss her cheek near the corner of her mouth. 'Tanaya turned her head and his lips closed over hers gently; he brushed his lips back and forth for a few moments then settled his mouth over hers and opened his mouth slightly.

'Tanaya turned towards him more and opened her lips to allow his tongue entry to her mouth; his tongue traced over her teeth then across her bottom lip before he changed the angle of the kiss slightly and repeated his explorations.

His lips left hers to trail lightly over her cheek before he nuzzled the side of her neck as he worked his way up to her ear lobe. He took the lobe of her ear between his lips and she shivered in delight as his breath brushed over her ear. He chuckled and repeated his actions smiling as she gasped and shuddered.

"I could do this all day," Brad growled against the side of her neck.

"Ten minutes of this tops and then I am taking your clothes off," 'Tanaya warned.

"I got something else I want to talk to you about before we get side tracked," Brad said as he lifted his head.

"Oh?" 'Tanaya said curiously.

"Brent asked a question a few days ago and it's been playing on my mind. I thought I'd run it by you and see what you think, Brent asked if I had thought of trying to get Janey to go to the jail with me so I could introduce Ren to his Godson." Brad said quietly.

"Ren would love that, especially seeing Janey and of course seeing Nicky. But do you think she would go?" 'Tanaya asked curiously.

"I'm not sure to be honest. But I do know if her boyfriend knew about it she wouldn't go." Brad said with a frown.

"You really don't like seeing them together do you," 'Tanaya said uneasily.

"The guy is always telling her how she's safe with him and so on, he's saying all the things he should be saying but ever notice it only seems to remind Janey that something or other might scare her or upset her. When he's around she needs his reassurance but when he's not around she copes quite well. It's like the guy is under mining her confidence." Brad said worriedly.

"Yeah I noticed it too but I did wonder if I was imaging it," 'Tanaya confirmed.

"Hmmm," Brad murmured.

"You thinking of trying to get Janey to visit Ren?" 'Tanaya asked softly.

"You seen what they were like together at the caravan park that night," Brad said with a throaty chuckle as he remembered the sounds that had come from the caravan.

"Playing matchmaker are you?" 'Tanaya asked curiously with a smile.

"Maybe I just want my best mate to be as happy with a woman as I am with you," Brad said lightly before dropping a kiss on her smiling lips.

He felt her lips part beneath his and he slid his tongue past her lips and teeth to caress her tongue; he could taste the sweet taste he associated with her and finally lifted his head to rest his forehead against hers breathlessly.

"Promise me you won't go running into anymore burning houses will you," Brad said thickly.

"It's not something I plan to do ever again." 'Tanaya said softly.

Brad groaned and lifted 'Tanaya so that she sat sideways across his lap, she turned towards him and put her arms behind his head to pull him into another open mouthed kiss.

'Tanaya moaned with pleasure and turned so she could press herself against his chest, she ran her hands across his shoulders and then down the front of his body trying to find bare skin to touch. His tongue darted into her mouth and duelled with her tongue as he kissed her deeply.

"I'd like to sit here for a while just holding you," Brad said when he lifted his head.

"It feels so good to be in your arms," 'Tanaya said and snuggled against his chest as if to make her point. She could feel his erection beneath her bottom but at the moment simply being in his arms was what she wanted.

Brad sat holding her as he watched the movie; one hand was continuously stroking her thigh from hip to knee in long steady movements. Now and then he would press a kiss to whatever part of her head was turned his way.

When the movie finished Brad glanced down at 'Tanaya and was surprised to find she was asleep. Carefully he eased her off his lap and onto the lounge, arranging her so she lay comfortably on the lounge and he got up to turn the tv and dvd player off.

Leaving 'Tanaya to sleep he went into the kitchen and set a pot of soup on the stove so it would heat slowly then set about getting some grilled cheese on toast ready to cook for when 'Tanaya woke up.

Brad glanced at the clock wondering how to get in contact with Janey and asking if she could bring Nicky to visit on Sunday instead of tomorrow, Saturday. He frowned as he remembered he was not to contact Janey because of the court order and wondered if there was a way around it. Finally he gave a shake of his head and decided not to worry about it, hopefully Janey would ring as was becoming her habit before bringing Nicky over.

* * * * *

'Tanaya smiled to herself as she limped into her kitchen and placed the bag of groceries on the table. It was nearly a week since the fire and she was surprised at the reaction of the community to what had happened. There were people who had shunned her before Brad had came to town due to her involvement with Brent and Matty and now these people had suddenly decided that she was someone they could say hallo to.

Several people at the small supermarket had insisted on helping her with her shopping and a woman who lived four houses up the street had even given her a lift home saying it was the neighbourly thing to do.

"Where do you want the rest of your shopping Luvie?" Gerald Brinkley asked. He had seen her arrive home and had come over to talk to her. He had been a regular visitor of an afternoon since the fire and he got on well with the guys.

"Oh just on the table here thanks Gerald," 'Tanaya answered him. She sat down on a chair at the kitchen table happy to get off her burnt foot and pulled a bag of groceries towards her. Quickly she sorted through the different bags working out what she needed to put away and what would wait for Brad to put away when he got back from work.

"Will you be alright until your man gets back from work?" Gerald asked as he placed several more bags of groceries on the table.

"I'll be fine thanks. Say hallo to your wife when you visit her for me." 'Tanaya said as he headed for the front door; she limped to the kitchen doorway to watch him as he left the house.

With the house to herself once again 'Tanaya returned to the kitchen, put the meat in the fridge and the frozen items in the deep freezer.

She picked over the shop on the table, decided it could wait until Brad got home for him to put it away and picked up a magazine and an apple before limping into the lounge room. She sat down on the lounge with a relieved sigh and turned so she could lift her legs up and rest her feet on the lounge; she opened the magazine and began turning the pages idly as she bit into the apple.

A soft noise disturbed 'Tanaya and she was surprised to find she had fallen asleep, she glanced at her watch and realised it was the time that Brad usually returned from work.

"That you Brad?" 'Tanaya called, her voice still thick with sleep.

"Yeah it's me, Matty and Brent are here as well. They wanted to make sure you're still on the mend." Brad called from near the front door where he was removing his work boots.

"Hey 'Tanaya!" Matty called enthusiastically.

"Hey yourself Matty," 'Tanaya called back. She heard footsteps coming down the hallway and sat up so she could see whom it was.

"Have a good day?" Brad asked lightly as he came into the room. He put his lunch esky down on the floor and came over to give her a soft lingering kiss on the lips.

"Yes, I had a nice day. I did end up going to the supermarket. Wait!" 'Tanaya cautioned when Brad frowned angrily and opened his mouth to speak, "I called a taxi to get there and only intended to get a few things but everyone was so nice and one of the staff got me to do a list and they gathered the stuff for me while I sat on one of the seats at the front of the store. Maureen from a few doors up was there and she insisted on giving me a lift home; Gerald from next door carried the shopping in. The meat is in the fridge waiting for you to put it in lots and in the freezer, frozen stuff is in the freezer... the rest is waiting on the table for you to put away." 

"I told you I could do the shopping for you after work," Brad frowned at her.

"And I was a good girl this afternoon and spent all afternoon with my foot up," 'Tanaya said as she motioned at her leg where it rested on the lounge.

Brad gave a slight nod, he knew there was no use in arguing with 'Tanaya; she was stubbornly independent and would do what she wanted when she wanted.

"Misbehaving is she?" Brent asked as he walked into the lounge room behind Matty.

"Something like that," Brad agreed reluctant to leave her side at the moment. Since the fire and the fright he had received when he had found out she had run into the burning house he had realised how much she meant to him and how precious time spent with her was.

"Do you need a drink or anything?" Brad asked her.

"No, I'll just go to the toilet and I'll be right. I had something to eat and drink at three this arvo." 'Tanaya said with a smile.

Brad scooped her up into his arms without a word and headed towards the bathroom.

"I could have walked, although I must admit I love the way you tend to just sweep me off my feet," 'Tanaya said in a throaty whisper.

Brad felt his body tighten in response and when he set her on her feet in the doorway to the toilet he dropped a quick kiss on her lips.

"I won't be long," 'Tanaya said and shut the door behind her.

When 'Tanaya came out of the toilet and washed her hands Brad once again picked her up and carried her back to the lounge room.

"You sure got Brad trained," Matty laughed and ducked back out of reach when Brad looked his way.

"Yeah I have haven't I" 'Tanaya laughed softly.

Brad growled deep in his throat but made no comment as he sat on the lounge beside her and draped an arm along the lounge behind her. 'Tanaya snuggled against his side and rested one hand on his thigh as she turned her attention to the two men in the room.

"So what are you pair up to?" 'Tanaya asked with a contented smile.

"We thought we'd stop in and see how you are." Matty said happy to see 'Tanaya looking so much better than she had Sunday afternoon after Janey had left with Nicky.

"Well sit down you're starting to make the place look untidy." 'Tanaya said with a smile.

Matty laughed at her and sat in the recliner chair; Brent glanced around and then got one of the kitchen chairs to sit on.

"So how is your foot healing?" Brent asked.

"Not as quick as it would if she stayed off it," Brad said with a frown at 'Tanaya.

"It's going fine, despite what grouchy here says," 'Tanaya said ignoring Brad.

"He does have a point." Brent said with a motion towards her foot.

'Tanaya groaned with frustration but said nothing more.

"Obviously 'Tanaya can't go to Ren's hearing, at least not by herself," Brad said evenly, "I'm seriously considering taking the day off and going myself. I think Ren would like the support."

"Yeah at least one of us should go," Brent agreed.

'Tanaya lent back against the lounge and closed her eyes, she was content to sit there and listen to the conversation flow around her as the three men talked.

* * * * *

" Coming," 'Tanaya yelled in response to the loud knock on her front door. She limped towards the front door wondering who could be calling on this late in the afternoon. As she approached the door she could see a vague silhouette through the frosted glass but it was not clear enough to tell her who it was. She opened the front door and paused in surprise when she saw Janey standing on the other side of the door.

"Uh, hi. Brad's not home from work yet, he's working late." 'Tanaya said knowing that Janey would only be here to see Brad.

"When do you expect him home? I'll come back after that." Janey said with a quick glance over her shoulder at the car parked out the front.

"He should be home in half an hour or so. You can come in and wait, it's no trouble." 'Tanaya said with a friendly smile. She didn't want Janey to leave; maybe they could make their peace while they waited for Brad to get home.

"I don't think that would be a good idea," Janey said tightly with a step backwards.

"I'd like for us to try to be friends," 'Tanaya said in a hopeful tone.

Janey looked at 'Tanaya with a look that clearly said she didn't trust her.

"I've said some things I shouldn't have and I didn't really understand several situations." 'Tanaya said with a grimace.

Janey folded her arms across her chest as she sent 'Tanaya a disbelieving look and raised one eyebrow sarcastically.

"Won't you come inside and sit down? Brad should be home in about half an hour. Where's Nicky?" 'Tanaya asked with a forced smile.

"My parents are minding Nicky so I could come talk to Brad," Janey said levelly.

"Please. Won't you come in? It would be better for Nicky if we could all get along." 'Tanaya offered.

Janey didn't answer 'Tanaya's remark but 'Tanaya was relieved when Janey walked past her into to house and headed towards the kitchen. She was standing at the sink facing the doorway when 'Tanaya limped into the room.

"Would you like a drink? Coffee? Something cold?" 'Tanaya asked as she pulled out the chair closest to the door and paused ready to sit down.

"I'm right," Janey said as she watched 'Tanaya suspiciously.

'Tanaya limped to the fridge and got herself a can of coke; she hesitated a moment and then grabbed a second can. She returned to the table and placed both cans on the table before sitting down; she opened one can and pushed the other one towards the other end of the table.

"Would you like me to explain to you why I seem to keep changing my mind as to whether I like you or not?" 'Tanaya asked softly.

"Oh I'd like to hear this one," Janey said tightly.

'Tanaya watched Janey for a moment and then gave a faint nod as if to reassure herself of something.

"As you know Ren, Brad, Brent and Matty are friends of mine. And when I first met you all I saw was you jerking Ren around, blowing hot and cold with him but he put up with it all. Even with you being with ...Adam," 'Tanaya said reframing from calling him 'the cop' as she usually did, "I even felt a bit sorry for you; you obviously were caught in a situation you didn't want to be in with all the shit going on with the police and everything."

"Oh you felt sorry for me did you? I suppose that's why you were calling me a bitch the last day of their trial." Janey said sarcastically, remembering how it had added to her misery on the day.

'Tanaya looked towards Janey and had the grace to blush and look ashamed of herself, "I stupidly thought it was your testimony that put Brad and Ren in jail and put Brent and Matty on good behaviour bonds." 'Tanaya said softly.

"So it was my fault was it?" Janey demanded tightly with disbelief. 'How could another female believe what I had went through had been my fault?'

"I wasn't thinking. Brent who is a very dear friend had gotten into trouble and Brad... hell even then I was that crazy about him I couldn't think let alone think straight. So I stupidly blamed the first thing that came to mind or I saw, I'm not sure which." 'Tanaya said unhappily trying to explain what she had seen had seemed like to her at the time.

Janey made an angry sound in her throat as she watched 'Tanaya through narrowed eyes.

"And when I had heard you had visited Brad and the connection with Nicky I was scared you were going to jerk him around using Nicky. Then when he got out and you come here you've always had either your brother or A-Adam in tow although there has been once or twice it's been you by yourself..." 'Tanaya said but Janey cut her off.

"You think I would use my son against Brad? As for having someone with me most of the time, do you think I ever feel safe by myself after what Hawk done to me?" Janey demanded angrily. "Some days it's so bad I can't even walk outside my house alone!" she yelled at 'Tanaya.

"Yeah well I'm scared you'll end up hurting Brad and I love that guy so much it hurts me when he hurts." 'Tanaya gushed out.

"I don't trust you, you're two faced as far as I am concerned." Janey said tightly, she couldn't believe the gall of the woman. "And I will never give you a chance to turn on Nicky, not if I can help it."

"Nicky is a part of Brad and I would never willingly hurt Brad and the same can be said for his son!" 'Tanaya said anxiously. "I know you don't believe me, I haven't given you any reason to trust me but it's true and I hope that one day you can see that." 

Janey continued to glare angrily at her and 'Tanaya lowered her head so she was looking at her hands and not the fear-fuelled anger in Janey's eyes. Suddenly all Janey wanted was to leave the house.




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 07



"Brad's been talking about getting a swing set for Nicky, I'm not sure if it's something he thinks Nicky needs or if it's something he wants to be able to push Nicky on." 'Tanaya said into the tense silence between them, she could almost see Janey looking for a way to escape from the conversation. 

'Tanaya saw a brief softening in Janey's eyes at the mention of her son and hoped she could bridge the gap between them somehow in the future. Nicky was Brad's son and as such a part of Brad, 'Tanaya already had a deep affection for the boy even though she had yet to get the chance to so much as hold him.

"Brad want's to have stuff Nicky will eat on hand here when he visits, he eats strawberries and apple that we've seen. Banana? Rusks?" 'Tanaya probed hoping for a response. It had actually been her suggestion to Brad about having food on hand for Nicky.

"Grapes the white seedless variety, watermelon, bananas, arrowroot biscuits and sliced cheese." Janey said grudgingly.

"Ever tried him with that special baby yoghurt with added calcium?" 'Tanaya asked faintly.

"I got some this week but so far he hasn't eaten more than a mouthful or two," Janey admitted almost reluctantly.

'Tanaya managed a faint smile, "Maybe he'll get used to the taste, I know Brad loves yoghurt."

Janey eyed 'Tanaya suspiciously for a few seconds before turning her head away dismissively, she really didn't want to talk to the woman any further but felt trapped into being civil in her house.

"I think I'd be better leaving and coming back in half an hour," Janey said abruptly and headed towards the kitchen door.

'Tanaya got to her feet and realised Janey had slowed her pace and was watching her warily as she approached her. 

"Brad should be home any minute," 'Tanaya said as she glanced at her watch.

"I'm leaving." Janey said tightly.

"Okay," 'Tanaya said softly when she realised the other woman fully intended to leave.

The sound of someone opening the front door startled both of them and they moved out into the lounge room so they could see up the hallway to see who was coming in the door.

"Oh hey Janey, I thought that was your car out the front. Where's Nicky? Asleep?" Brad asked as he walked down the hallway towards them. Suddenly he noticed the tension between them and looked at 'Tanaya inquiringly.

"Janey dropped by to speak to you," 'Tanaya said evenly.

"Nicky's at home with my folks." Janey said warily.

"Oh okay, what's on your mind?" Brad asked as he walked by them to put his esky in the kitchen.

"I came to see if you wanted Nicky for a few hours tomorrow night because we won't be here at the weekend." Janey said firmly.

"I was hoping we could do a picnic with Nicky, go on a special outing for the day." Brad said with a frown.

"Not this weekend, maybe after the christening next weekend," Janey said dismissing it casually.

"I got everything set up to do it this weekend..." Brad began.

"Not going to happen we won't be here," Janey cut in abruptly, she shifted uneasily before continuing to speak. "Adam is taking me away for the weekend and he wants Nicky with us."

Brad's gaze flicked to 'Tanaya alarmed before meeting Janey's gaze once again.

"I made special plans for this weekend, it's important..." Brad said with an intense look on his face.

"Either you want Nicky for a few hours tomorrow evening or not! Your chance to have him by your self like you've wanted for overnight access." Janey cut in harshly.

Brad wasn't sure what to make of Janey's behaviour, it was almost as if she knew he didn't think much of Adam either that or she was hiding something.

"Okay, I'd love to have Nicky for a few hours tomorrow evening. And if you want to use the time to do something special for yourself well and good," Brad said softly trying to soothe Janey.

"So have you got something special planned for tomorrow evening?" Brad asked after several moments of awkward silence.

"Adam and I are going out, he's asked me to marry him." Janey said almost defiantly. She knew Brad didn't approve of Adam, she could tell by the way he looked at him and the tone of his voice when he spoke to him. He wasn't hostile or disrespectful; it was just a something ... different Janey had picked up on.

"And you've said yes." Brad's voice was flat and 'Tanaya put a hand on his shoulder as if in support.

"I've got no reason not to!" Janey burst out sounding defensive, "and he wants more children which is what I want as well!" 

A prickling of unease started behind Brad's neck and only got stronger as he met Janey's defiant gaze. She wasn't sure about what she was doing he realised, she wasn't sure if it was the right thing to do.

"Whatever makes you happy Blondie," Brad said using Ren's pet name for her and saw the slight jerk as it hit home, "you need to be able to move on with your life too." 

Brad felt 'Tanaya squeeze his arm frantically and glanced towards her, placing his hand over hers where it rested on his bicep's.

"Just take it slowly and you'll do the right thing for you," Brad said gently.

Janey made an annoyed noise in her throat and flicked her fringe back out of her eyes with a graceful movement of her hand.

"So what time do I expect you tomorrow evening?" Brad asked lightly, "about this time?"

"Yeah," Janey said grudgingly and glanced up the hallway, "I gotta go Mum can't be expected to look after Nicky all evening."

"See you tomorrow afternoon then," Brad said evenly, "and thanks for not just saying I could miss seeing Nicky this weekend."

Janey looked at him shocked, 'How did Brad know what Adam had said about his seeing Nicky?' she wondered.

The look an her face giving her away Brad glanced towards the front door, his temper was getting hotter and hotter with each inadvertent word she let slip.

"I gotta be going," Janey said and hurried towards the front door.

Brad remained silent as she left in a hurry without looking back; he waited until he heard the car start and drive away before moving away from 'Tanaya and kicking his esky viciously.

"The bastard!" Brad swore and looked around for something else to take his temper out on.

"Brad?" 'Tanaya asked worriedly.

"I'd bet nearly anything on the fact Adam believes Ren will win the appeal and be out of jail for the Christening so he's making sure of having a hold on Janey, even if it's the oldest trick in the book!" Brad spat furiously.

"I don't think Janey is even aware that the appeal is going to court," 'Tanaya said, "she didn't breath a word of it to me."

"Of course the bastard would keep it from her," Brad said before adding sarcastically, "wouldn't want to upset her."

Brad turned to face 'Tanaya and she saw the fear and anger in his eyes.

"Adam will do everything he can to keep Janey from bringing Nicky here if Ren gets out next week." He said flatly.

"And so much for taking Janey and Nicky up so Ren could see his Godson," 'Tanaya said quietly.

"It wouldn't have been Nicky he was focusing on," Brad said flatly.

"And you believe Adam wants the visits between you and Nicky to stop as well don't you," 'Tanaya said worriedly.

"Anything that connects Janey to Ren," Brad agreed.

"And if you say anything to Janey he doesn't like or that makes her question him he'll try to use it to turn her against you or make it look like you're just trying to make trouble." 'Tanaya said more to herself then to Brad.

"The bastard is smart, I'll give him that." Brad growled angrily.

'Tanaya walked up to Brad where he was pacing the kitchen looking for something else to kick, she slipped her arms around him and cuddled close. Brad let out a weary sigh and she felt him gather her close and then his lips were searching for hers.

'Tanaya sighed and gave herself over to the kiss; his lips were soft and tender against hers as he brushed his lips back and forth before deepening the kiss. He broke the kiss off quickly still angry about what he had heard.

"Heya handsome, need some tension released?" 'Tanaya purred in a seductive voice and Brad paused to look at her.

'Tanay smiled and lifted her arms to run her hands up under the back of her short hair; she licked her lips and arched her body towards him as she slowly stretched her arms above her head.

Brad narrowed his eyes as he felt heat start to flood his body as 'Tanaya arched her body towards him provocatively.

Slowly she swung her hips in a circle and shimmied in a very sensual move as she placed a hand on his chest and pushed him backwards towards a chair.

Brad reached out to catch hold of her but 'Tanaya laughed soft and huskily as she evaded his grasp.

"Uh, uh big boy. House rules, you do not touch the entertainment." 'Tanaya said as Brad sat down abruptly.

She kept just out of reach as she swayed and gyrated to silent music; her hands were moving constantly as they caressed her body erotically. One hand slid across her lower stomach to slip beneath her top, pushing the material up as her fingers skimmed across her ribs.

'Tanaya turned sideways as she continued to dance, her movements sensual and suggestive as she moved in an imitation of hip thrusting gyrations.

One hand trailed fingers across her lips and she took the tip of one finger between her teeth as she moaned softly. Her other hand trailed down over her shorts to cup her groin as she moved her body sinuously.

Brad watched as she continued to move her body erotically; slowly she moved both hands to the hem of her top and moved it up her body in a smooth rhythm of movements that had his breath catching in his throat. She slipped the top off over her head to reveal her black lacy bra that cradled her breasts sexily.

Brad almost groaned aloud as 'Tanaya lifted her injured foot to rest it on the edge of the seat of the chair he sat on; she reached down to run her finger tips from her toes across the top of her foot and up her calf. At her knee her hands moved to different sides of her thigh, one caressed up the outside of her thigh while the other slid up between her thighs and with a wicked smile she reached beneath her edge of her shorts.

Brad went to cover that hand with one of his but before he could do more than lift his hand 'Tanaya had her foot down and was out of reach.

"Tut, tut, tut," 'Tanaya scolded gently her voice low and husky, "you know the house rules sir, you may not touch."

"In a strip joint are we?" Brad asked huskily as he decided to play along with whatever game it was she was playing.

"Oh a very exclusive entertainment establishment sir, as you should well know," 'Tanaya murmured in a throaty pur and commenced to shimmy out of her shorts.

Brad watched as each sway of her hips had first one side of her shorts inching lower then the other side following suit. He swallowed hard and gripped the sides of the chair seat as 'Tanaya artfully manoeuvred the shorts down until they pooled around her ankles.

She stepped one foot to the side and out of her shorts and then daintily raised the foot still in the shorts so that her foot was chest height to Brad in front of him where he sat.

Brad reached out slowly and eased the shorts from her ankle to toss them aside; he longed to reach out and caress her leg but reframed from interrupting what was turning out to a most entertaining dance.

He groaned as he turned his attention to the scrap of lace that passed for nickers and when 'Tanaya turned around to shimmy and shake her hips he took a sharp breath as he saw the taunt and toned globes that were separated by a single strap that attached to the waist of her g-string.

Brad found his eyes drawn upwards as 'Tanaya turned around and leant towards him; her breasts ended up inches from his face and he groaned as he caught a brief glimpse of her puckered nipples through the lace of her bra. He licked his lips at the thought of closing his mouth around one of the taunt little buds and glanced up at her face.

Her eyes were dark with arousal, the pupils so dilated that they nearly hid the rim of colour around them. Her lips were slightly parted and her breath was coming in soft little pants.

Brad felt his jeans tighten uncomfortably and when 'Tanaya reached behind her neck to move her hands above her head and arch her body he came out of the chair quickly and caught her before she could evade him.

"Hey! Hey! No touching!" 'Tanaya protested but Brad silenced her protests as he pinned her body to the kitchen wall with his. Her eyes went wide as the hard ridge of his arousal pressed against the softness between her legs and she wrapped her legs around his hips as she raised her face for his kiss, reaching up behind his head to pull his mouth down to hers eagerly. 

Brad's lips were hard as they covered her mouth, his tongue swept across the seam of her lips and she opened her mouth obligingly. His tongue speared into her mouth processing and conquering the soft wet warmth as he dominated the kiss.

'Tanaya moaned against his mouth as she felt one of his hands slip beneath her arse; his fingers found the wet lace covering her slit and pushed it aside ruthlessly.

His fingertips found her clit and her hips bucked between the wall and his body as he ruthlessly flicked it; then his fingers moved to her wet slit and he plunged two fingers into her slick entrance. 

Brad swallowed her gasps and moans as he kissed her roughly; his tongue twisted around hers, plunging back and forth as he mimed what he intended to do to her body. He felt her lips purse around his tongue and then she was sucking at his mouth strongly; he gave a ragged groan and pulled his hand from beneath the lace at her crotch.

'Tanaya nearly cried out with disappointment as she felt his fingers slip from her body but then his hand moved between their bodies and she dimly heard the rasp of a zipper. His hand moved against her for several moments then she gasped and bucked her hips against his hand as his fingers brushed against sensitive flesh.

She whimpered against his mouth as she felt the pressure of his cock pushing into her slick but tight passage; then his hands were grasping her hips allowing him to enter her only as much as was comfortable for her.

Brad tensed and forced himself to take it slow as he realised that although 'Tanaya was wet and slick she wasn't fully aroused.

He moved his hips withdrawing until only the head of his cock was in her pussy before sliding back into her tight wet heat, again and again he withdrew only to plunge back in a little further each time until he was sinking into her so deep his balls slapped against her pussy.

He had to fight hard to keep control of his body as the heady sensation of being deep in her soft warm body flooded his senses.

'Tanaya whimpered against his mouth as Brad continued to kiss her hard and deeply. She could feel her hips slap back against the wall with each thrust of his hips and the erotic mix of pleasure and pain had her whimpering and gasping as she felt the tension start to build low in her stomach. She gasped and clutched him tighter around the shoulders as she tried to move her hips faster.

Brad groaned against her lips and pulled away to trail his lips down the side of her throat. He breathed deeply as he tried to remain in control of his lust.

"Please, please, I gotta cum!" 'Tanaya begged as the tension grew tighter leaving her gasping and trying to move faster despite Brad's firm grip on her hips.

Brad made a sound that sounded somewhat like a feral growl in his throat and began pumping his hips faster, his fingers dug into her hips as he tightened his grip moving her in time with him.

The increase in his speed shattered his control and with a guttural cry he slammed into her mercilessly; he felt the tightening in his balls explode as the sensation boiled through his cock and exploded out into her waiting womb.

A cry of pure pleasure burst from 'Tanaya as waves of pleasure spiralled out from deep within her body. Tingling tremors reached even her fingers and toes as she groaned softly with pleasure and nuzzled against the side of his face.

Brad staggered to the chair he had been sitting in and sank onto it gratefully, he lifted her slightly so that he slid from her body. He felt her nuzzle deeper into his shoulder and he folded his arms around her tighter, anchoring her securely to his body.

"You're one hell of a woman," Brad murmured huskily.

"Mmm," 'Tanaya murmured something indistinctly against the base of his throat.

Brad loosened his hold and eased her head away from him so he could tilt her face up to his; he lowered his head and gently closed his lips overs hers. 'Tanaya moaned softly and kissed him back; he felt her smile against his lips and raised his head to look at her.

Slowly 'Tanaya opened her eyes, they were heavy lidded and hazy with sated passion.

"I love you so God help me," she uttered softly.

Brad smiled tenderly down at her and brushed his lips over hers with a feather light touch.

"I think it just may be mutual Darling," he murmured gently as he folded his arms around her and cuddled her close.



Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 08



Hi readers,

here is the next installment of Brad's story, only one chapter left after this.

Please take the time to vote and leave your comments.

Mygypsy

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 

'Tanaya sat cross legged on her bed waiting for Brad to come to bed, he was turning all the lights out and double checking to make sure everything was close to hand for work tomorrow.

She looked up as she heard his footsteps approaching the doorway and watched as he walked into the room.

"Not in bed yet?" Brad asked with a smile as he saw her sitting in the middle of the bed. He was feeling pretty mellow after two sessions of sex that evening; there had been the one in the kitchen after 'Tanaya's impromptu lap dance/ strip tease act then another later in the bathroom when she had joined him in the shower.

"I think it's time I had a serious talk with you," 'Tanaya said levelly.

Brad raised his eyebrows at the tone of her voice but made himself comfortable sitting back against the headboard of the bed.

"Is it about you having worked as either an exotic dancer or a stripper?" Brad asked with a half grin.

"The dance was a bit of a give away I suppose," 'Tanaya said then took a deep breath and continued, "I worked in a strip joint when I was thirteen. I stripped, pole danced, gave lap dances and I even went into one of the backrooms with guys who liked little girls."

Brad looked away for several moments; there had been no note of apology in her voice, just a flat matter of fact tone.

"Well I can't really be mad at you about it, you were little more than a kid. I suppose you had to survive somehow. But I am a bit pissed that you HAD to do it, it couldn't have been easy." Brad said slightly tense.

"It beat starving," 'Tanaya said softly as she remembered that time in her life, "and it's not as if I am going to do it while I'm with you. Except for private entertainment."

Brad glanced her way at the teasing tone of her voice. He could see the vulnerability in her face as she watched him waiting to see if he had any further reaction to what she had to say.

"I did get arrested twice when I was with Robby for prostitution but the charges were dropped both times,"

"I take it you've had all the tests done for STD's, Hep's and Aids," Brad said tightly.

"Yes back when I miscarried and then later on as routine to rule it out." 'Tanaya said quietly.

"Well I type of worked out you weren't a virgin before I slept with you the first time," Brad said flatly.

'Tanaya sat watching him waiting to see how he felt about what she had revealed.

"Well the past is in the past and it's the present that matters," Brad said finally.

"Yes it is," 'Tanaya agreed.

"Just so you know, I don't share my women with other guys." Brad said as he reached for her.

'Tanaya went into his arms eagerly; she cuddled up to his chest as he settled her against him and lifted her head eagerly when she felt his breath brush her cheek.

His lips were reassuringly familiar as he kissed her gently. She pressed her body against his as much as she could and reached down between them to stroke his semi hard cock through his track pants.

"Haven't you had enough today?" Brad asked when her hand quickly roused him for a third time.

"I can't get enough of you," 'Tanaya said as she worked her way down his chest and over his flat hard abs. She pushed his track pants low on his hips and freed his rigid cock; she gazed at it for several seconds before lowering her head and kissing the slit of his cock lightly.

Brad took a deep breath and gently pulled her away when she went to slip her lips around the head of his cock.

"As much as I agree with the thought I have to work tomorrow and then we get Nicky for several hours so I do need to get some sleep tonight because after the two times earlier I could go for a good length of time before I cum." Brad told her seriously.

'Tanaya looked away as she retreated to her side of the bed.

"Hey, just because we aren't making love doesn't I don't want to hold you." Brad said as he reached for her.

'Tanaya went into his arms eagerly and snuggled into his hard body as he folded his arms around her gently. She pressed a quick kiss to his shoulder then turned her head to rest her cheek against the spot where she had kissed. She couldn't ever remember feeling the way about someone the way she did about Brad, not even Brent who she had loved deeply. Had what she told him coloured the way he felt about her? 

"Any idea's on what we can do with Nicky tomorrow evening?" Brad asked, "Maybe take him to the park so he can go on the swings or the sandpit?"

"He'd love that, notice how he likes being pushed on the swings? Nice and high no sissy stuff for the boy," 'Tanaya said with what sounded like a proud chuckle to Brad.

"Definitely not scared of heights," Brad laughed softly. He felt 'Tanaya stir in his arms as she moved to get more comfortable.

"And we can have a picnic on the back lawn. The cooked chook I got today, salad and fruit salad for Nicky." 'Tanaya volunteered.

"Brent and Matty would probably like to come over, I know Matty loves to get down on the floor and let Nicky wrestle with him." Brad said.

He nuzzled against 'Tanaya's hair and sighed softly in contentment.

"Are you going to turn out the light or are we going to sleep with it on?" 'Tanaya asked when Brad was silent for several minutes.

Brad yawned and got off the bed reluctantly, he had nearly been asleep but knew if he didn't turn the light out then 'Tanaya would get up to do it and he had been so comfortable with her in his arms.

He hurried back to bed pausing long enough to remove his track pants before slipping beneath the covers, he smiled to himself as he felt 'Tanaya cuddle up against his chest once more as he wrapped both arms around her.

* * * * *

Brad watched Nicky holding onto the lounge as he turned his head to look at 'Tanaya and giggle as she popped her head around the corner of the door playing peek-a-boo.

Matty and Brent were enjoying an after dinner beer as they sat in the lounge room watching Nicky play. Nicky stood near Matty as he watched 'Tanaya, when she disappeared again he frowned.

"'Nay! 'Nay!" Nicky demanded.

"Boo!" 'Tanaya said popping her head into the room again.

Nicky began giggling and let go of the lounge, he took several steps and then realised he wasn't holding onto anything. He sat down with a plop and began crawling towards 'Tanaya eagerly.

"Nay! Nay!" Nicky called excitedly.

"Nicky, Nicky, Nicky!" 'Tanaya called to him and moved forward to pick him up.

Nicky put his arms around her neck and pulled her close to plant a sloppy open mouthed kiss on her cheek in the same manner he did with his mother and grandmother.

"Ahhhhhhhhhhh," Nicky murmured fondly as 'Tanaya cuddled him close.

Nicky liked this woman who his Daddy cuddled often, not only did she smell nice she always had nice things for his Daddy to share with him.

"What are you doing Nicky?" Brad asked with a smile.

"Daddaddaddad," Nicky said slurring it into one word as he wriggled to get down. As soon as he was on the floor he crawled over to Brad and pulled himself up using Brad's track pants as hand holds.

"Wasn't Janey supposed to be back by now?" Brent asked quietly.

"She's out with the boyfriend," Brad said in explanation with a dark frown.

"Just means the longer you have Nicky," Matty said as he watched Brad lift Nicky up into his arms.

Nicky sighed and rested his head on his father's chest before rubbing his face on Brad's shirt tiredly.

Brad began patting his back gently like Janey had shown him and soon he felt Nicky relax against him and he felt heavier in his arms. Brad turned so 'Tanaya could see Nicky's face and nodded towards the child with an inquiring look.

"He's asleep," 'Tanaya said quietly, "put him in on our bed." 

Brad followed 'Tanaya into her room and carefully put his son in the middle of the bed. Nicky stirred slightly and whimpered but 'Tanaya put a light blanket over him and rubbed his back gently, soon Nicky was asleep once again. Quietly they left the room tip toeing out to the lounge room.

"Well I might head home, catch you pair tomorrow." Brent said as Brad and 'Tanaya came back into the room.

"Yeah, me too." Matty said getting to his feet.

"Okay, tomorrow. We leave at six agreed?" 'Tanaya asked.

"Sure thing," both Matty and Brent said in unison.

'Tanaya listened to the two men as they walked to the front door with Brad, they were talking quietly among themselves, she sat down on the end of the lounge thankfully.

"Looks like Nicky's got you worn out," Brad said softly as he came back into the room.

"He is full on isn't he," 'Tanaya said with a smile.

Brad chuckled softly as he sat beside her and put an arm along the back of the lounge behind her, he leant close and dropped a quick kiss on her lips before leaning back against the lounge with a sigh.

"You're not to tired I hope," Brad whispered near her ear as he lent close.

'Tanaya laughed softly and turned her face up to his; he took the hint and kissed her deeply.

'Tanaya sighed against his mouth as he finally lifted his head; his eyes were dark with arousal and his breathing heavy.

"Having Nicky here has one major drawback," Brad said huskily.

"No, having to wait around not knowing exactly when the front doorbell will ring is the drawback," 'Tanaya murmured against his lips as she leant close to feather kisses across his lips and jaw.

Brad groaned as he returned her kisses, he cupped one breast through her top, rubbing his thumb back and forth over the hard nub of her nipple.

"Damn I hope Janey hurries up," Brad groaned against her throat.

"It'll be worth waiting for no matter how long she takes," 'Tanaya promised huskily. She shifted to straddle Brad's legs, kneeling on the lounge astride him.

Brad ran his hands up her back and pulled her close for a deep kiss; his tongue thrust into her mouth causing her to moan softly and press herself against him. He cupped her arse with one hand and slid the other up to the back of her neck to hold her head steady as he kissed her deeply.

When Brad eventually stopped kissing and touching her 'Tanaya slipped from his lap and took several steps away from him shakily.

"I might go make us a cup of coffee," 'Tanaya said huskily.

Brad shifted and adjusted the tightness at his groin as he watched 'Tanaya walk into the kitchen; he knew that when she returned with their coffees the drinks would be put aside and forgotten while they kissed once again. He shifted uncomfortably as he imagined exactly what he would do to her once she returned; a wicked grin curved his lips into a smile and he stretched his arms above his head.

The doorbell rang loudly startling him out of his thoughts and he got to his feet quickly.

"I'll get it," he called to 'Tanaya as he headed for the hallway.

He opened the front door to see Janey and Adam standing outside, Adam nodded and Janey sent him a slightly embarrassed look.

"Sorry about being so late but we lost track of time," Adam said calmly.

"It was no trouble, in fact Nicky not long went to sleep." Brad said matching the other man's tone.

Adam walked past him and into the house, Janey followed silently and Brad noticed her tussled hair and wrinkled skirt as she walked by. 

When he reached the door to the bedroom he saw Adam picking Nicky up while Janey gathered up the diaper bag and his soft toys.

As Janey turned around Brad noticed the faint love bite on her neck and realised that Adam had obviously stopped somewhere on their way from the restaurant and had sex with Janey in the car. Not only was her hair untidy and her skirt wrinkled but also her top was buttoned up unevenly.

Adam saw him looking at Janey and caught his eye with a smirk, clearly the bastard wanted him to know that he'd had sex with Janey Brad realised.

Adam walked past him to get out the door and Brad glanced back towards Janey as she looked around the room.

"I think I got all Nicky's toys and clothes," Janey said as she licked her lips nervously.

Brad realised she had had a few drinks as he looked into her eyes. He gave a slight nod and stepped aside as she headed for the doorway.

"Guess we'll see you Wednesday," 'Tanaya said as Janey came out of the bedroom.

"Why would you expect to see me Wednesday?" Janey asked confused as she looked at 'Tanaya.

"At Ren's appeal, did you forget about it? I thought you'd have to go." 'Tanaya said quietly.

A nerve jumped beneath Janey's right eye and she turned away quickly, "Yeah, I had forgotten about it tonight." She said faintly.

Brad walked followed her to the front door and watched as she made her way to the car where Adam was closing the back door; he spoke softly to Janey and Brad heard her tense tone but not what she said.

Both Adam and Janey got into the car; clearly something was said before Adam started the car and took off abruptly spinning the wheels and spraying gravel behind them.

Brad went back inside shutting the door behind him and headed for the bedroom where he was sure 'Tanaya would be waiting.

'Tanaya was sitting on the bed in a very sexy green lace teddy when Brad walked into the room; he paused for a few seconds to take in the sight before him before turning out the light and heading for the bed.

"I hope that thing is easy to get off, I'd hate to ruin it," Brad growled huskily as he shed his clothes as he moved towards the bed.

"Oh you'll find it very easy to take off," 'Tanaya almost purred as she felt the bed dip beneath his weight as he sat down to pull his track pants off his feet.

Brad turned to stretch out on the bed and reach for 'Tanaya, he felt her roll closer to him and press close eagerly. He found her lips with his and thrust his tongue into her mouth as she suckled at it eagerly.

'Tanaya pushed against Brad's shoulders until he rolled onto his back and then she pulled away from him; swung around to face his feet and straddled him so that her hips where over his head and shoulders and she was looking down at his rigid cock.

"Want a sixty-niner do you?" Brad asked with in a husky tone before lifting his head to lick the inside of her upper thigh.

'Tanaya groaned and reached down between her legs to undo the snap fastenings of her teddy and expose her wet pussy to his lips and tongue before turning her attention back to his cock.

Brad opened the petals of her woman's mound and took a deep breath enjoying the sweet heady smell of her arousal for a second before lifting his head to lick at the moisture hidden within her folds.

'Tanaya found it hard to concentrate as she circled the head of Brad's hard cock with her tongue before trying to engulf it in her mouth; the sensations caused by his mouth and tongue on her pussy kept distracting her.

She felt his lips close over her clit as he sucked it strongly, she gasped and tried to hold her hips still as his tongue thrust into her passage.

'Tanaya lifted her head and pulled away from Brad to turn around and straddle him, her hips above the hard shaft that jutted up from his groin. She leant down and kissed him on the mouth; her body rubbing against his erotically as she sighed and moved in imitation of the ancient rhythm of sex.

She felt his hands skim up her back to her shoulder blades before tracing down over her spine lightly. A groan worked its way up from deep within her as she ground her hips against his; she felt him sliding within her wet folds and moved to catch more of the feeling.

His hands clasped the tops of her hips and she allowed him to lift her slightly so that the head of his cock brushed against her entrance. She shuddered as pleasure washed through her from the teasing contact and moved her hips impatiently.

"Do it now!" 'Tanaya demanded huskily and nipped his earlobe with her teeth.

"Not just yet, wait a little longer," Brad groaned worried he'd hurt her.

'Tanaya took matters into her own hands as she impaled herself on his rigid cock; she gasped as he slid deeply into her body and she held still for a few seconds.

"You'll be the death of me yet woman!" Brad gasped as he forced himself to hold still. The tight walls of her passage gripped his cock making the blood rush to his head and pound in his ears.

'Tanaya began to move slowly; grinding her hips in circles against his. She smiled as she heard Brad gasp and tense beneath her as he held still letting her set the pace. She leant forward and was rewarded when Brad reached up to cup her breasts, she leant further forward until she could kiss him and traced the outline of his lips lightly for several seconds before kissing him hard.

Brad groaned against her lips and began to move slowly, he felt 'Tanaya moan softly against his mouth and then she was moving with him in a slow steady rhythm. He could feel her pussy trying to pull him deeper with each downward stroke; her inner muscles gripping him tightly as she moved.

'Tanaya felt the familiar tightening building in her lower stomach and switched to grinding her hips against his once again to try to prolong her pleasure but Brad's hands gripped her hips and kept her moving in long slow thrusts.

'Tanaya pulled away from his kiss and sat up straighter and began to bounce up and down faster; she heard Brad grunt softly beneath her as he matched her pace and then she felt the slight swelling of his cock that signalled he was close to cumming as well.

Brad gasped her hips tighter as their rhythm sped up, he was tempted to roll her beneath him and pound into her but 'Tanaya seemed happy to be on top this time. He felt the tightening in his scrotum coil tighter and fuller then it flowed up his cock in a tingling flood. He gasped and pulled her hips down against him hard; dimly he heard 'Tanaya cry out as her pussy seemed to tighten around him in waves, milking his cock.

'Tanaya collapsed against Brad's chest panting softly; she could hear his heart racing in his chest and it seemed to keep time with her own. She lay where she had fallen for several minutes before Brad eased them apart and laid her beside him on the bed. He carefully pulled a sheet up over them and cradled her against him as he closed his eyes.

"I swear, it keeps getting better each time," 'Tanaya whispered softly.

Brad made a soft sound of agreement in his throat as he rolled towards her and gathered her closer.

'Tanaya heard when his breathing changed to the steady rhythm of sleep and turned away so her back was to him; he gathered her close even in his sleep and she smiled as she closed her eyes and waited for sleep.

* * * * *

Brad looked around the inside of the building that was attached to the visiting area of the prison; it was odd to be entering it from the visitors door and he felt uncomfortable as he nodded to one of the guards he knew.

"Surprised to see you here again Stanton, I would have thought you would come here even to visit." Jeffery's said with a smirk.

Brad gave him a dry smile and then headed out into the area where 'Tanaya, Brent and Matty had disappeared ahead of him.

Brad paused on the top step as he looked around the visiting area; the others were standing in a group over by one of the picnic tables and as they moved Brad saw Ren shaking Brent's hand. He saw 'Tanaya say something and nod in his direction and then Ren turned towards him.

'Tanaya gave Ren a quick hug as he stopped in front of her.

'It's good to see youse," Ren said as he shook hands with Matty and then Brent.

"There's someone else here to see you," 'Tanaya said with a nod towards the visitors building.

Ren turned towards the building curiously; he was surprised to see Brad standing on the top step watching him guardedly. 

Was this what their friendship had come to, them acting more like mere acquaintances instead of best friends? Their friendship destroyed by a stroke of fate?




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 08



Brad met his gaze over the short distance and realised how much he had missed his best friend since his own release; in fact how much he had missed Ren since their estrangement when they had found out who the father of Janey's baby was. Not only had they been best friends since their first day of school together but also they had been more like the brothers neither of them had.

Ren watched as Brad walked down the steps and across the grass towards him. He watched as the larger man smiled hopefully and put out his hand to shake hands.

"Damn but I've missed you mate!" Ren said with heart felt feeling as he clasped Brad's hand and pulled him into a quick backslapping hug.

"I should have come before this," Brad said ruefully.

" 'Tanaya says you been busy with your boy," Ren said evenly. It was the first time they had really openly talked about the situation since Brad had informed him of Janey's first visit.

"Yeah, I get to see him most weekends, Janey is pretty good about it." Brad said with a guarded glance at Ren.

"I always thought she had a good head on her shoulders," Ren said evenly.

"How about we sit down? My foot is sore." 'Tanaya said as she took Brad's hand.

Brad immediately turned worried eyes on 'Tanaya and picked her up before she could take a step towards the seats beside the picnic table. He carried her to one of the seats and sat her on it gently.

" I could have walked," she told him.

"You're supposed to be resting that foot." Brad said with a frown as he sat beside her, put an arm around her and pulled her close.

"I see you two finally got together," Ren said as he sat on the seat on the opposite side of the table.

"Yeah, best thing that's ever happened to me." Brad said with a fond glance at 'Tanaya.

"Anyway how is Janey?" Ren asked as he looked away towards the guards.

"She's fine, when she's away from the cop. When he's around she's nervous and scared looking." Brad said trying to keep his tone light.

Ren looked at him trying to read his expression, "You think he mistreats her?" he asked worriedly.

"Not so much mistreats as doesn't let her forget all the bad stuff that could happen," Brad answered tightly.

Ren gave a brief nod and looked away for a few seconds.

"So what does Graeme think your chances are at the appeal?" Brent asked as he sat down while Matty squatted out from the table and benches.

"Roy and Zane are up for parole the week after next and Graeme believes we got a sympathetic Judge who'll see things from my side," Ren said quietly.

"That really stinks that those two bastards would be up for parole before you!" Matty snarled.

"They didn't break a no contact order," 'Tanaya said with a frown at Ren, "You want to be a good boy if you get out on Wednesday." She warned.

"Not if, when. " Brad corrected in a hopeful tone.

"So what's been going on? You no-goods still are working?" Ren asked with a grin.

"No-goods?" Matty demanded with mock offence, "I'll have you know we are good, well we must be good at something. The boss still keeps us around and 'Tanaya hasn't given us the flick yet."

"Who would cook the weekend bbq if one of you didn't?" 'Tanaya asked wide-eyed.

The conversation ebbed and flowed around the group; all were glad to see things back to normal between Ren and Brad, none gladder than the two friends themselves.

Lunch was a fresh salad 'Tanaya had picked up on the way through the local town and high quality steaks that Ren grilled on one of the bbqs supplied for inmates and their visitors. 

At the end of the day they left the visiting centre and headed for a local hotel while Ren returned to the main area of the jail, the following day they would visit again.

* * * * *

Brad pulled uncomfortably at the neckband of his shirt and fidgeted before finding a slightly more comfortable spot on the chair.

The courthouse comfortably warm and the lighting bright but not harsh; the steady procession of cases before the Judge was tedious and boring but Brad and 'Tanaya were waiting for Ren's appeal to go before the Judge.

"Look, isn't that Janey's brother? The one who's the cop?" 'Tanaya asked in a whisper as she nodded towards two men who had just came in to sit in the public gallery.

"Yeah, that's him." Brad confirmed softly, "There's no sign of Janey yet."

"And Adam just walked over to speak to the Police Prosecutor," 'Tanaya whispered.

Brad looked to where she had indicated and watched as Adam clearly had a serious talk to the Prosecutor.

"I don't like the look of it," Brad growled softly.

The court bailiff announced the next case and Ren was ushered into the court wearing a suit and surprisingly no handcuffs. Ren sat down in the chair beside Graeme Walsh; Graeme got to his feet and approached the Judges bench with the Police Prosecutor.

There was a quiet conversation between the Judge and two Lawyers for a few minutes then the Judge made some notes on the paper in front of him; seemed to read for a moment then spoke quietly to the Prosecutor.

Both men moved away from the Judges desk and Graeme motioned for Ren to get to his feet.

Whatever the Judge said was lost in the vastness of the courtroom leaving Brad and 'Tanaya none the wiser as Graeme and Ren left the room followed by the court Sheriff.

"I'm going to see if I can find out what exactly happened," Brad whispered and edged out of the bench seat with 'Tanaya following him.

Outside the courtroom Brad checked several of the small rooms until he found Graeme and Ren at the counter of an office while someone behind the counter taped away at the keyboard of a computer.

Ren glanced towards the doorway at the sound of their approach and grinned widely when he saw them.

"I though I caught a glimpse of youse in the back of the public seating but couldn't be sure," Ren said happily.

"So how did it go? We couldn't make out what was said from where we were sitting." Brad said with a worried frown.

"Both sentences to run concurrently and parole granted effective immediately," Graeme Walsh said with a pleased smile as he turned to face them.

"So Ren's free to go? He doesn't have to go back to the jail?" 'Tanaya asked hopefully.

"As soon as he signs the paperwork he can pick his stuff up from the police station and you can head off where ever you like." Graeme said with a grin.

"We'll go out for a slap up feed and then back to the house for a few cold ones," 'Tanaya said as she sat down and began to mentally plan the evening.

"How about a few cold ones at the pub and then a simple meal with just our friends?" Ren asked as he leant against the counter comfortably.

"Yeah, we can do that." Brad agreed.

'Tanaya frowned but didn't argue as she knew they would go along with whatever Ren wanted for the evening.

Within half an hour Ren had signed the necessary paperwork and went to collect his belongings from the police station while Brad and 'Tanaya bought the vehicle around to the police station so Ren could find it easily.

'Tanaya climbed into the back seat letting Ren sit in the front with Brad, she turned slightly sideways so she could put her injured foot up on the seat and glanced happily between Brad and Ren.

"How about we grab some take-away for lunch before heading off?" Ren asked with a glanced over his shoulder at 'Tanaya.

"Sounds like a plan," 'Tanaya agreed as Brad started the vehicle and headed for the main road.

"I didn't see Janey here today." Ren said quietly.

"We didn't either," Brad concurred, "Adam and her brother the cop were there but."

'Tanaya met Brad's quick glance in the rear view mirror and darted a nervous glance at Ren, he seemed unaware of the silent exchange between Brad and 'Tanaya but there was a certain tension emulating from him.

Brad turned into the drive-thru of the first fast food place and they ordered their food, paid for it and picked it up at the outlet window. Brad had driven back onto the main street before anyone broke the silence in the vehicle.

"What is it that you guy's aren't telling me?" Ren asked evenly.

"Ahhh..." 'Tanaya struggled to find the words.

"We got a surprise visit from Janey Thursday evening, seeing if I wanted Nicky for a while Friday night since she had other plans for last weekend. It turns out Janey and Adam got engaged and are working on a playmate for Nicky." Brad said evenly without looking at Ren.

Ren was silent for nearly ten minutes before giving a slightly bitter laugh, "Well there's many a slip between the question and the alter." He said tightly.

"Janey's been really good about letting me see Nicky. Most of the time one of her brothers James, is with her. Occasionally it's Adam and once or twice she's been able to make it by herself." Brad said lightly trying to divert Ren's thoughts.

"Is there a hidden message in that?" Ren asked with a glance at Brad.

"No. Just saying how it is. Janey doesn't go out by herself much but she has managed to bring Nicky to see me by herself several times lately. So she's been doing pretty well. But I got a feeling that Adam will be poking his nose into things a lot more after today." Brad said evenly.

"Thanks for the warning," Ren said as he looked out the window.

There was silence for several minutes as all three ate their food, when they were washing it down with cans of soft drink 'Tanaya sighed with relief as she finally let herself believe that Ren was out of jail.

"So do you want to stay at the house with Brad and I or bunk at the flat with Brent and Matty?" 'Tanaya asked curiously.

"Where ever there is some room, I'm not fussy. Hell after where I been just the floor in a normal room would be welcome." Ren said.

"We can do a bit better than that. There's a choice of two bed that you can stretch out on, no feet hanging off the end to worry about." Brad said with a grin.

* * * * *

Gerald Brinkley watched as his neighbours parked in front of their garage and got out of the vehicle; he noticed they had a visitor with them as he walked over towards the fence separating the two houses.

"Hallo there Brad!" Gerald called in greeting.

Brad turned towards the fence and nodded in greeting as he saw their older neighbour, "Hallo Mr Brinkley, it's a lovely day to be out in the yard today."

"Yes it is. Ahhh, your ex-wife was here about ten minutes after you left this morning. She seemed upset and she's come back several times since then." Gerald said.

"Ex-wife? Oh! You mean Janey, the one who has my son." Brad realised, "Did she say what she wanted?"

"No, she only asked me to tell you she wanted to speak to you. She didn't seem to be in the best of moods either." Gerald said with a touch of worry. He hoped there wouldn't be any trouble; he and his wife enjoyed seeing the little boy in the backyard most weekends.

"Oh well if it's important she'll either ring me or come back later," Brad said trying not show his concern.

"She did say she would be back," Gerald agreed.

"I hope you don't mind if I go in, we got a visitor." Brad told Gerald with a half smile.

"I'll see you later," Gerald said with a wave of his hand.

"Yeah, see you later." Brad agreed as he turned away and followed Ren and 'Tanaya into the house.

Brad found 'Tanaya and Ren in the lounge room, Ren had already placed his few things in the spare room and was looking around with interest.

"Ren was just saying he wouldn't mind going to the pub and having a few games of pool while we waited for Brent and Matty to get off work." 'Tanaya told Brad with a smile as she slipped an arm around his waist and lent against his side.

"Sounds like a plan," Brad agreed.

"Tomorrow I'll have to do something about getting some more of my gear here." Ren said as he glanced down at his clothes.

"You look fine, you'll have all the single women and some not so single flirting with you all evening." 'Tanaya said with a smile.

"Yeah, you've always had more than your fair share of luck with females," Brad grinned.

"Well how about we head off for the pub? I have really missed being able to play pool." Ren said and headed for the front door.

Brad and 'Tanaya followed him outside; Brad forgetting that Janey had been looking for him in the pleasure of having his best friend back.

* * * * *

'Tanaya sat in the kitchen chair watching as Brad put the food in the oven to cook, Ren was still at the pub with Matty and Brent enjoying a last game of pool before heading back for the evening meal.

There was a loud knocking on the front door and Brad grinned at 'Tanaya, it seemed that the three guys had finished their game of pool quicker than they had thought they would.

"Door's open, come in, we're in the kitchen!" 'Tanaya called with a smile for Brad.

Brad glanced towards the kitchen door as he heard the front door open then turned his attention back to the stove where he was settling saucepans on the stovetop.

"Where have you been? I've been looking for you all day!" Janey accused from the doorway sounding very angry and agitated.

"Oh hi Janey, we been..." Brad was startled as he remembered Gerald telling him she had been looking for him.

"I don't want her near Nicky! Not ever!" Janey exploded suddenly.

Brad heard 'Tanaya give a sharp gasp as he kept his attention on Janey. "What's this all about?" he asked guardedly.

"Don't tell me you don't know what kind of person you've let near my son!" Janey retorted angrily.

"Exactly what is that supposed to mean?" Brad asked starting to get annoyed.

"Her!" Janey retorted pointing at 'Tanaya, "That drug-dealing whore!" Janey almost yelled in her anger.

"Oh no!" 'Tanaya sobbed as she covered her mouth with both hands, tears streaming down her face, "Oh God no,"

"You had better start explaining," Brad growled angrily as he glanced from 'Tanaya to Janey to 'Tanaya once again not sure whom to talk to first.

"It's all in there!" Janey said loudly and angrily as she slammed a folder on the table and sheets of paper cascaded from the folder. "I will not have her near Nicky! Ever!"

"I was a kid! It's not what it looked like!" 'Tanaya sobbed in self-defence as she stared at Janey in horror.



Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 09



Brad stood dumb struck for a few moments staring at the sheets of paper on the table, he recognised them as copies of police arrest and charge sheets. He realised with a sinking feeling that either Adam or Janey's brother had been digging in 'Tanaya's past; apparently somewhere back in her teenage years according to the age stated on one of the sheets.

Drugs.

He had seen no evidence of drugs or drug use in the time he had known 'Tanaya, hadn't even heard any whispers of drugs all the times he had heard about her before actually meeting her.

"Janey sit down and let's talk about this," Brad said trying to control the anger that was growing in him.

Janey glanced from him to 'Tanaya and took a step backwards as if she expected him to try to physically force her to do as he said.

"She is never to be near Nicky! Never!" Janey exploded forcefully.

"Janey..." Brad tried to control his anger as he tried to reason with her, he recognised that someone was clearly trying to make trouble between them.

"I WILL NOT HAVE THAT DRUG-DEALING WHORE NEAR MY SON!" Janey yelled with growing agitation.

" 'Tanaya isn't the problem here..." Brad began angrily.

"I am not having someone like HER near my child! And if you're going to be letting her near Nicky then..." Janey was nearly hysterical as she all but screamed at him.

"Stop right there!" Brad roared breaking into Janey's ranting; he turned his head towards 'Tanaya, " 'Tanaya, could you..."

"I won't let you have that...that...THAT SKANK NEAR MY SON!" Janey yelled close to hysterics.

"That is it!" Brad said tightly, "Get the hell out of this house! You will not come into 'Tanaya's home and start calling her names like that!" Brad ordered hotly.

Janey took several steps backwards at his tone, fear flashing across her face. She was trembling as she shook her head.

"I will do whatever necessary to protect my son from people like her!" Janey said defiantly despite her fear.

"GET THE HELL OUT NOW!" Brad yelled outraged as he took a step towards her one arm raised as he pointed towards the front door.

Janey took one look at Brad then turned and ran towards the front door; all the way she expected to hear him behind her but there was no sound of pursuit as she reached her brother's car where James was standing at the driver's door with a worried look on his face.

"Get me out of here!" Janey said as she got into the passenger seat and promptly dissolved into tears.

Inside the house Brad walked around the table to squat in front of 'Tanaya who was crying uncontrollably.

"Do you want to tell me about it?" He asked gently.

'Tanaya shook her head wildly and tried to pull her hands away from Brad as he took her hands in his but he refused to let go.

"I thought it was all locked away, in my past, over and done with! It's not supposed to be able to come back and haunt me like this!" 'Tanaya sobbed as she jumped to her feet finally pulling her hands free from his hold. She left the kitchen and hurried to her room leaving Brad to stare after her for a few moments before glancing at the papers on the table once more.

He hesitated only a moment before following after her and stopping in the doorway of the bedroom they had been sharing to stare at the scene before him.

'Tanaya was pulling his clothing out of her dresser and throwing them on the bed in an untidy mess as she cried, wiping her tears with the back of her hands now and then.

"What are you doing?" Brad asked with a sinking feeling.

"We're finished! Over! I won't cost you your son!" 'Tanaya managed then broke down crying so hard she was unable to pull anymore of his clothes from her dresser.

Brad felt a hard lump form in his chest as his heart felt like it stopped; the pain spread until it felt like it engulfed his chest and stomach.

"No 'Tanaya! No!" Brad begged, "Don't you see? It's not about you! It's not even about me! That bastard Adam want's Janey to himself! He want's her past gone!"

Brad tried to pull 'Tanaya into his arms but she refused to let him as she let herself fall into a heap by the side of the bed.

"I won't cost you your son!" She sobbed.

"If it's not over you it'll be over something else he stirs Janey up about! I can only hope either Janey wises up or sometime in the future Nicky wants to have something to do with me! But if I loose you I loose MY future, don't do that to me Darling. I love you, I don't think I could stand to loose you." Brad said desperately.

"How do you know I'm not what she claims?" 'Tanaya demanded tearfully.

"Your not a bad person, I just know it." Brad told her gently as he lowered himself to sit beside her and brushed her fringe back off her face.

"You can't be sure! You hardly know me! You don't know everything from my past!" She protested. " I was nearly sixteen when I was arrested for possession of drugs, they were Robby's but he made me carry them because he already had drug convictions and I was just a minor so I'D get off a lot lighter than him. They weren't my drugs and I never used drugs."

Brad closed his eyes as he tried to think what he could say to her to convince her that he knew that whatever was in her past was exactly that, in her past.

"I love you and I believe you." was all he could think to say.

'Tanaya was still in the bedroom while Brad had returned to the kitchen when Brent, Matty and Ren returned to the house nearly a quarter of an hour later.

The folder was still sitting on the kitchen table but with the papers tucked away inside of it unread; Brad didn't want to read it, he trusted 'Tanaya to be able to tell him what it was inside the folder.

"I'm going to put on some music, liven up the place." Matty announced oblivious to the strained atmosphere in the kitchen.

While he was in the lounge room at the stereo 'Tanaya came out of the bedroom to the kitchen door. Brent was the first one to notice her and was quick to spot the tear stained cheeks and red eyes.

"Something wrong 'Tanaya'?" Brent asked softly as he walked over to her.

'Tanaya shook her head silently but more tears started and Brent wrapped his arms around her as she buried her face in his shirtfront.

"What did you do to her?" Brent demanded accusingly as he glared at Brad.

"It's not Brad's fault," 'Tanaya sniffed as she managed to halt her tears when she felt Brent tense.

"We had a visit from a very upset Janey, seems someone has been feeding Janey a heap of stuff she has taken the wrong way and she now thinks 'Tanaya shouldn't be allowed anywhere near Nicky." Brad said quietly.

"Fucking stupid idiot!" Brent swore tightly and released 'Tanaya when she pushed away from him.

"I refuse to let her use me to stop letting Brad see Nicky so I've broken up with him." 'Tanaya said faintly.

"And I keep telling you you're not the cause, only a handy excuse Adam or her brother Robbie has used to get to her. There will be another excuse some where down the line if you must insist on this silly idea of breaking up with me and we loose what we have for no reason." Brad insisted.

"I won't be responsible for you not being able to see your son." 'Tanaya said tightly.

"So you're going to drive me crazy instead?" Brad demanded angrily.

"Hey, calm down now!" Ren said stepping in between the two of them, "We are supposed to be celebrating tonight. If you two are arguing then who ever gave that folder to Janey is getting what they want, for both of you to be miserable. And just a thought, if that folder contains police records then I believe it is illegal for anyone not a police officer to be shown them." 

'Tanaya looked at Ren as the information got through to her, she walked over to the table and picked the folder up to quickly skim through the contents.

"There's stuff in here that I was told would be sealed in my juvenile record and not looked at as it would have no bearing on an adult conviction." 'Tanaya said as she glanced towards Ren startled.

"So who-ever gave that to Janey not only made it so she wouldn't let Brad see Nicky, not only broke you pair up but also invaded your privacy and made public some stuff I'm sure you believed was in the past and over and done with." Brent said flatly.

"You didn't piss anyone off did you?" Ren asked curiously.

'Tanaya and Brad glanced at each other as both of them remembered 'Tanaya mentioning Ren's appeal to Janey on Friday night. Was this what all this was about? 

"Janey couldn't have had that information to long, she would have freaked out as soon as she read it. That's why she wasn't at the appeal today! She was too busy freaking out over this to remember the court was today!" Brad exclaimed and glanced towards Ren.

"And I told her about the appeal Friday night." 'Tanaya said aloud.

"Was lover-boy there?" Ren asked dryly.

"He was out at the car at the time but I don't doubt she had something to say to him because she didn't seem to know about the appeal but covered it up by saying she had forgotten about it." Brad said quietly with a quick glance at 'Tanaya.

"Just like Janey is always on edge here when he's with her but okay by herself or with James." Brent said with a shake of his head.

"What are you going to do about what's happened?" Matty asked worriedly.

"Well my son is getting christened on Sunday and I aim to be there, don't know about anyone else." Brad said tightly.

"You could ask Graeme Walsh what the law is on your records getting handed out like that," Ren said to 'Tanaya, " it borders on harassment in my books."

'Tanaya glanced towards Brad only to find him watching her; she looked away hurriedly. Had she thrown away the best thing to happen to her in a long time for nothing?

* * * * *

Brad sat back in the recliner and looked at his can of beer moodily; Brent and Matty had headed off to their flat leaving him, 'Tanaya and Ren in the lounge room but 'Tanaya had been quick to head off to her bedroom shutting the door with a pointed glare when he had tried to follow her to talk things over with her.

"You're pretty serious about 'Tanaya hey?" Ren asked quietly breaking into his thoughts.

Brad gave a slight start before nodding and glancing towards the door of her bedroom. "Yeah, I can see myself settling down with her. Not moving around, staying in the one place."

"So what's my Godson like? He a good kid?" Ren asked suddenly.

Brad smiled as he thought of Nicky. He was like a bright ray of sunshine on a rainy day.

"Nicky is full on. Lively, bright, he can say quite a few words. Even strings some words together to make sentences." Brad said proudly.

"So is he as ugly as you?" Ren asked in good-natured teasing.

"What do you mean ugly?" Brad asked with a laugh, " I'll have you know he's one good-looking boy. Got my facial features but eyes the same colour as Janey and definitely Janey's smile."

"He must be cute then," Ren allowed with a grin.

"I hope you're inferring you fancy Janey, not me." Brad said with a chuckle.

"No way, you're butt ugly!" Ren laughed, "I don't know how you managed to hook up with 'Tanaya."

"I got lucky." Brad said soberly.

"Yeah, that you did. She's one decent woman that one." Ren acknowledged.

"I got to find a way to fix this mess between us," Brad said tightly. 

Just the thought of what was going on between them pained him greatly; he didn't want to contemplate how things would be for him if 'Tanaya persisted with her belief that breaking up with him would get him back to seeing Nicky. They both were realistic enough to know that Janey wouldn't bring Nicky here to the house with 'Tanaya about.

"Might be smart to give it a few days and see how things pan out," Ren advised.

"I don't know if I can, each moment there's trouble between us is killing me." Brad said hoarsely.

"And you're so mad about what's happened you want to punch someone in the face or kick their arse but you know it won't help matters any." Ren said quietly.

"Exactly!" Brad said bitterly.

"I think we both got the same problem Brad," Ren said after a few minutes silence.

"Yeah?" Brad asked sceptically.

"Lover-boy," Ren said with a narrow-eyed glance.

"Don't I know it." Brad said bitterly and glanced at Ren with a worried frown, "Don't tell me you're going to do something stupid like try to go see Janey."

"No, but I am going to the Christening Sunday." Ren said with a grin.

Brad smiled as he thought about how Janey would react, she probably wouldn't be able to stay away from Ren and if that was the case she would see the truth about 'Tanaya for herself.

"I guess I'd better let you get some sleep. Lucky bum that you are you have work in the morning." Ren said as he got to his feet.

"Yeah, 'night." Brad said faintly, he didn't relish being left alone with his thoughts.

"Catch you tomorrow." Ren acknowledged as he headed for the spare room.

* * * * *

'Tanaya watched Brad as he sat on the bottom step to the back yard; he had been quiet and withdrawn all the previous evening and now he was spending the morning staring out at the back yard instead of enjoying himself.

"You got your clothes ready for the christening tomorrow or would you like me to iron something for you?" 'Tanaya asked quietly.

"I've got everything ready but if you want to sit with me for a while I'd appreciate the company." Brad said softly.

'Tanaya moved down to stand beside him for a few seconds before sitting down; her foot was nearly healed now but was still tender.

Brad reached out and caught hold of one of her hands; she attempted to pull it from his grasp but he refused to let go.

"Don't make it any harder than it is all ready." 'Tanaya whispered softly.

"Don't make it any harder? It's damned impossible for me as it is!" Brad said angrily before getting to his feet and heading inside the house.

'Tanaya sighed unhappily and blinked back tears as she looked around the back yard; it seemed impossibly empty without Nicky playing there. How would her house seem as soon as Brad found another place to live?

The image of rooms empty of human company plagued her mind until she got to her feet and headed inside.

She found Brad in the kitchen making himself a cup of coffee; she sat down at the table and folded her hands in her lap to hide their shaking.

"I don't know how much longer I can take this situation between us," 'Tanaya said faintly.

"You want me to move out." Brad stated abruptly without turning to face her.

"That wouldn't change the fact that I actually hurt physically believe it or not," 'Tanaya said miserably.

"We don't have to break up! You're only being used as an excuse you're not the cause!" Brad protested as he turned to face her.

"I wish I could believe that," 'Tanaya said as tears welled in her eyes.

"Why is it you place so little value on yourself? You're the one who has done so much for Brent, Matty, Ren and myself and yet you're ready to abandon us all at the first sign of trouble?" Brad demanded angrily. 

"I won't do anything that will cost you your son!" 'Tanaya said and then let out a harsh sob, "I know what it feels like to loose a child!"

"You're not going to cost me my son but you will cost me my sanity!" Brad said angrily as he stalked over to the table and hauled her to her feet angrily. He hesitated a moment before lowering his head to kiss her roughly and angrily.

'Tanaya froze for an instant then she was kissing him back, meeting each angry thrust of his tongue with one of her own until his anger abated leaving only desire in it's place.

When Brad finally raised his head he looked around the kitchen for a second before lifting her into his arms and heading for the bedroom hurriedly. He put her on the middle of the bed and stretched out beside her quickly before she could protest. He kissed her again, lowering one hand to cup a breast through her blouse.

'Tanaya reached up behind Brad's head and held him close as she kissed him back fiercely, she threaded her finger through his hair and arched close when he moved over her to thrust a thigh between hers.

Brad thrust his hips against the cradle of 'Tanaya's thighs, the layers of material between them annoying in his state of desperation. He groaned softly as he trailed his lips over her cheek and then worked his way down the side of her neck to her collarbone. He slid his hand down from her breast over her ribs and across to her hip to pull her more fully against him.

'Tanaya moaned as Brad moved rubbing the ridge of his arousal against the softness between her thighs; she gasped as his lips found a nipple and she arched back thrusting her breast towards his mouth.

"We got to many clothes on!" Brad muttered as he sat up and began to remove his clothes hurriedly.

'Tanaya sat up as well and quickly removed her clothes; she lay back down and watched as Brad turned back towards her and stretched out beside her once again.

Their separation had honed both their desires so that they explored each other's bodies hungrily, seeking out each sensitive area and giving it special attention.

'Tanaya groaned softly as Brad's lips grazed her navel and then moved ever lower until he reached the slickly wet folds between her thighs. The first touch of his tongue and lips left her gasping for breath even as he continued his assault.

Brad felt the hard bud that was her clit like a pebble in his mouth and he suckled as he probed her passage with one finger. She was slick with her own juices and his finger slid in easily as he began pumping his hand back and forth.

'Tanaya moaned and began moving her hips against his mouth and hands, she was unable to stop herself moving as pleasure built quickly beneath his touch.

Brad raised his head as 'Tanaya's moans escalated and the feel of her inner muscles warned him she was close to climax.

"Get on your knees I want to do it doggy style," Brad commanded huskily.

'Tanaya blinked at him dazedly for a second or two before rolling over onto her stomach and getting onto her hands and knees; she turned her head to peer back over her shoulder at Brad with a sexy pout but his gaze was fixed firmly on the globes of her well toned butt.

"Damn but you've got a hot arse!" Brad said almost reverently as he reached out to stroke the soft curves.

'Tanaya moaned softly at the contact and leant forward to rest her head on the mattress, positioning her legs apart so that Brad was sure to get a clear view of her wet pink slit from behind.

"Damn," Brad muttered again as he traced the curve of one side of her arse down to the top of her thigh before sliding his fingers across towards the shinning moisture that was on the inside of her thighs and higher still.

Brad watched as his fingers slid between her moist folds and into the gently gapping passage he found there; he felt 'Tanaya jerk and then push back against his hand as he began pumping his fingers in and out of her hole.

Unable to bear watching his fingers disappearing and then reappearing he turned his gaze to forwards to find her watching him over her shoulder. He saw the tip of her tongue appear and sweep across her bottom lip before disappearing once again. 

Brad took hold of his rock hard cock and guided it to the moist slit between the soft round curves; slowly he pushed against her entrance and felt the wet flesh part giving way before the purple head of his cock.

"Oh shit!" 'Tanaya gasped as she felt herself being stretched to accommodate his large cock. The different position from usual allowed his cock to rub against places usually not stimulated and she groaned into the mattress with suppressed pleasure as he began to slowly pump into her; getting a little deeper with each successive stroke.

Brad leant forward over her crouched form; he reached beneath her body to fondle her breasts even as he continued to thrust into her strongly. He released one breast to run his hand down over her stomach and find her folds with his fingertips.




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 09



"Oh yes! That's it!" 'Tanaya panted as he teased her clit making pleasure shoot through her from where he was embedded in her body. She ground her hips back against his, thrusting back each time he thrust into her and pulling forward as he backed out.

Brad groaned as he felt her body start to tense and her inner muscles pull at him more strongly; he could feel his own release building but feared she would beat him to it.

"Oh yes, yes, yes," 'Tanaya moaned as Brad grasped her hips and worked her backwards and forwards on his cock. She felt the first tingle deep within her body then streaks of pleasure darted out from her pussy to her nipples and her clit, fissions of pleasure even reached her fingers and toes as she gasped and pressed back as hard as she could against Brad's cock.

Brad felt the ripples of her inner muscles pull at his cock and then his own pleasure reached a crescendo as it spiralled from his tightened balls and scrotum up through his pulsing cock and out into 'Tanaya's warm and inviting body.

Brad collapsed onto the mattress, managing to roll onto his side to avoid putting his full weight on 'Tanaya and took her with him as he settled so that they were still joint intimately.

"Are you okay?" Brad asked softly when he got his breath back. He could still feel the occasional tremor running through her body.

"Hmmm, better than I have been for the last few days." 'Tanaya whispered softly in reply. She reached a hand back around her side to find one of his hands and hold it.

"So where do things stand between us? I'm afraid I need you to spell it out to me." Brad said quietly.

"You're right, I'm being used as an excuse to come between you and Nicky. I won't be used to punish you, I'll stand beside you proudly." 'Tanaya said softly, finally admitting to herself what she had known all along.

"It was driving me nuts thinking I had lost you. I love Nicky, he's my son and nothing will change that but I need you in my life, you are my life." Brad groaned against the back of her neck and pressed kisses to the side of her neck.

"Just hold me like this. Us together," 'Tanaya said thickly around the tears in her own throat.

* * * * *

Brad surveyed his appearance in the mirror one last time before stepping out of the bedroom and heading towards the lounge room; he found 'Tanaya and Ren waiting there in their good clothes ready for the christening.

"Aren't Brent and Matty here yet?" Brad asked in annoyance.

"They've already left for the church. Matty's bike is running a bit rough so they thought they'd get a head start." Ren said as he reached for his leather jacket and helmet.

The group had decided to go to the church on their bikes as the 4WD was in need of a service.

"Well let's get going then. 'Tanaya you still happy to ride with me?" Brad asked with a fond glance.

"I'll be glad to." 'Tanaya smiled and took his hand after tucking her helmet under her other arm.

"Come on then you pair," Ren called from the back door. Since hearing of how he had missed Janey's visit the evening of his release he had been waiting impatiently for today so he could see her.

The three were soon on the two bikes and heading towards the small rural church where the christening would be held as part of the Sunday service; as far as they knew the christening would still take place there despite the argument between Brad and Janey.

Half an hour later they sighted the small church and slowed so they would be able to make the turn into the church parking lot. As they pulled up they could see Brent and Matty standing at the entrance to the churchyard; they were facing two other men while two more men were walking towards them.

"I think there's trouble," 'Tanaya said as she got off the bike and removed her helmet when Brad had stopped his bike.

Brad paused in removing his own helmet to turn and look towards the gateway to the churchyard where Brent and Matty were still standing face the other four men.

"I'll soon find out what the hell is going on," Brad growled in a low voice as he placed his helmet over one end of his handlebars. He reached for 'Tanaya's helmet and put it on the opposite end before glancing across at Ren.

"Just take it easy mate, stay calm." Ren warned softly as he fell into step beside 'Tanaya who was in between him and Brad.

"There a problem here?" Brad asked tightly as he arrived at the gateway to recognise Adam and Janey's brother Robbie the cop standing just inside the churchyard while James and Jim; Mr Wilkinson Senior were coming towards them.

"You're not welcome here, I don't want Janey upset." Adam said firmly.

"Hey Adam, Janey won't like you sending Nicky's father away." James said before Brad could react to Adam's statement.

James and his father reached the gateway and Jim motioned Robbie away from the gate.

"Come on son, you know your sister better than this." Jim said softly to his older son.

Robbie glanced from one person standing the other side of the gate to the next before taking several steps back from the gate.

"They'll only upset Janey," Adam said stubbornly.

"Now don't you worry about that Adam, Janey is much tougher than she looks." Jim chided softly.

Adam frowned as he glanced at Jim before switching his attention back to those outside the gate.

"I suppose it won't hurt if they sit up the back where Janey doesn't have to see them all the time, hopefully she won't get too upset." Adam said tightly.

"Well actually Adam it was Janey who asked me to come out here and make sure Brad got into the church." James said with a level look.

Adam frowned at James then glanced quickly at the five outside the gate; his gaze flicked back to Ren a second time before he turned away.

"I'm going inside to make sure Janey's okay," Adam said tightly before striding away.

Robbie glanced at James and their father before shaking his head, "I'll head inside as well."

Brad watched the two men walk away before turning his attention back to James and the man who was obviously his father.

"Thanks for that James, much appreciated. I'm Brad Stanton, you must be Janey's father Mr Wilkinson." Brad said as he stepped forward and held his hand out to shake the older man's hand.

Jim glanced down at Brad's hand and then back into his face, he made no move to shake his hand. "I know full well who you are." Jim said before turning away and heading back into the church.

James glanced after his father then looked back at Brad who was standing there uncomfortably, "Don't worry too much about that, Dad's just very protective of Janey and Nicky."

"James, this is Gabriel Renford, better known as Ren. Ren, James, Janey's brother." Brad introduced the two men.

James glanced towards Ren and shook his hand when Ren held it out towards him, "I suspected as much, there's been a few murmurs this morning." James said with a shrug.

"Yeah? Who?" Brad asked quickly.

James raised an eyebrow before turning towards the church, "Adam and Robbie of course."

Brad led 'Tanaya through the gate and followed James towards the church, he could hear his friends behind him and felt comforted by it.

James paused just inside the church to allow his eyes to become accustomed to the inside lighting before heading up to where he had been sitting with his girlfriend Lydia. He heard some of those behind him stop and presumably take seats but there was still at least one person heading for the front of the church.

Brad paused while 'Tanaya slid into a bench seat with Brent and Matty before he headed for the front row where he could see Janey sitting holding Nicky next to a woman who looked very similar to her , who he assumed must be her sister.

Brad could hear Ren behind him as he reached the end of the seat and carefully made his way towards the centre of the seat where Janey sat with Nicky wriggling on her lap. He could tell she was aware of him beside her but she was very pointedly not looking his way.

"Daddaddaddad!" Nicky slurred the words out as he reached out towards Brad.

"Hey little man," Brad said softly as he sat down and reached for his son.

Janey turned her head towards him as Nicky leant away from her; she gave a startled little gasp and went pale as she looked past him.

Brad took the opportunity to take his son from her arms and then she was turning away back towards the minister who was in front of the congregation and talking.

"Dad! Daddaddaddad!" Nicky chuckled with delight as he settled into Brad's arms and Brad wrapped his arms around him securely.

"Hey there little fellow," Ren said very softly as Nicky looked at him curiously. It was strange to see his best friends face in miniature. The child blinked and Ren realised that he had his mother's shaped and coloured eyes; and as the little boy smiled Ren felt a tug at his heart.

Nicky turned in Brad's arms and looked back over his father's shoulder at the people behind them. He could see his Grandparents and waved happily before looking further beyond them, he chuckled happily as he spotted Matty and then noticed 'Tanaya with delight.

"'Nay! 'Nay! 'Nay!" Nicky yelled loudly as he wriggled to get down.

Brad patted Nicky gently on the back and tried to distract him, he had recognised the name that Nicky had called and knew if Janey realised who it was there would be trouble.

"Nicky, shhh, be good now." Janey whispered shakily to him as she stroked his hand softly.

Nicky turned his head to look at his mother and smiled a toothy grin, he turned his attention back to the people behind him and waved his hands at 'Tanaya once more. " 'Nay! 'Nay!"

Janey turned her head to glance over her shoulder to see what Nicky was yelling about; she caught sight of 'Tanaya and turned towards the front of the church quickly.

Brad glanced at Janey and saw the angry look she cast his way, then her eyes slid past him and she almost flinched as she turned away hurriedly. He could hear Ren whispering to Nicky and was relieved when the little boy turned his attention to him rather than those behind them.

The service was short, as the minister knew a small child wouldn't be able to sit through a long one and soon it was time for the actual christening.

As Brad got to his feet and moved to where he had to stand with Janey and the Godparents he was acutely aware of Nicky's weight in his arms. When it came time for the minister to hold Nicky Brad watched with pride as a feeling of love and tenderness welled inside him for the little boy.

Then the christening was over and the minister handed Nicky to Ren to hold; Nicky leant back in his arms as he surveyed this strange person. He decided suddenly that he liked this person with the lopsided smile, gentle voice and hair around his mouth. Nicky put his arms around Ren's neck and burrowed his face in against his neck suddenly sleepy.

As Brad sat back down again he glanced across at Ren and was surprised to see Nicky had fallen asleep in his arms, his little head resting against his shoulder. The look on his friends face was full of pride as he met Brad's glance and he stroked the little boy's back affectionately.

A few minutes later the service was ended and Brad turned towards Janey as they rose from their seats.

"We'll take Nicky outside and be in the shade," Brad said softly.

Janey nodded without looking at him before she replied," I'll be out to take him shortly."

Outside the day was considerably warmer than when they had entered the church and Brad was glad of the shade afforded by several large trees near the church. Brent, 'Tanaya and Matty walked over to join him and Ren where they stood with Nicky still asleep.

"He was such a good boy," 'Tanaya said happily as she brushed a hand over Nicky's hair.

Brad glanced around to check where Janey was and was relieved to see she had her back to them at present but he wasn't happy to see Adam standing beside her clearly talking to her and glancing their way every few seconds.

"Looks like there's trouble brewing," Brad said trying to keep his voice quiet to avoid waking Nicky.

'Tanaya glanced at him uneasily and Brad smiled reassuringly.

"Lover-boy keeps looking over here while he's talking to Janey, you can be sure he's trying to cause trouble one way or another." Brad explained.

'Tanaya glanced over towards them and caught Janey glancing their way uneasily; Janey looked away hurriedly and 'Tanaya noted how Adam quickly resumed talking to her.

Brad glanced back towards Janey and was relieved to see James heading their way with a woman; Brad knew James was reasonable and his presence there would hopefully calm Janey.

"Nicky was a good boy," James remarked quietly as he halted near the group.

"Yes he sure was," Brad agreed happily.

"You look comfortable there holding the little guy," James directed his remark to Ren who still held Nicky.

"He's one cute kid," Ren said and genuine affection for the little boy could be heard in his voice.

"This is my girlfriend Lydia, these are ... Brent, Matty, Ren?" at Ren's nod James continued, " 'Tanaya and Brad."

"And Nicky but I've already met him," Lydia said with a smile.

"Here comes trouble," Brent muttered and Brad glanced up to see Janey headed their way with an angry look on her face.

"I've told you I don't want her near my son!" Janey snapped as soon as she was within talking distance.

" 'Tanaya would not hurt Nicky and you'd realise it if you'd be rational for a few moments." Brad said tightly.

"Something going on that I'm not aware of?" James asked with a glance at his sister.

"Someone had handed Janey sealed police documents that should never have been allowed out of an official building let alone be seen by a civilian." Ren said quietly.

"I'll take my son thank you!" Janey snapped and reached for Nicky. She gave a slight gasp as Ren's hand brushed her body as he handed the sleeping child over and then she turned and hurried back towards Adam and her parents.

James frowned as he followed his sister with his gaze, he had no doubts as to who would have handed Janey police documents and the thought angered him.

"Look I don't want to get involved in any arguments between you and Janey, but is there any reason she has to worry about Nicky?" James asked with a level look at Brad.

"I would never do anything that would endanger my son, nor would I let anyone near him who might endanger him." Brad said tightly.

James considered him for a moment then gave a quick nod, "There's going to be a cup of tea and a cake around the side in a few minutes, come have some. And if Adam looks like causing trouble I'm sure Dad would be only too happy to put him in his place."

"So Adam's not real popular?" 'Tanaya guessed from the tone of his voice.

"Let's just say our parents would like to see Janey with someone better suited to her and better for her." James said before walking off with Lydia.

"He's not a problem?" Ren asked quietly with a quick look after James.

"No James is fine, very protective of his sister but there's no friction between us." Brad said and glanced over to where Janey had stopped beside Adam. Adam was saying something to her and she glanced back over her shoulder at them clearly uneasy.

"I see what you guy's mean, Janey seems more scared now she's with him then she was when she stormed over here." Ren said quietly.

"How about we head around the side like everyone else?" 'Tanaya asked quietly in an attempt to distract the two men who were brooding over Janey's behaviour for different reasons.

The group made their way around the side to where refreshments were being served; they soon were mingling with other people who had came to the service and Brad was surprised when Hank Scofield walked over to him and 'Tanaya.

"Fine looking boy you got there," Hank said with a nod.

"Hank! I didn't expect to see you here," Brad said surprised and pleased.

"My wife Maureen is a distant cousin of Marina Wilkinson, they grew up together and are still quite close." Hank said with a shrug as he looked at the red haired woman talking to Janey's mother.

"It doesn't matter the connection, I'm just glad someone I know came." Brad said with a grin.

Hank stayed and chatted for nearly half an hour before his wife wanted to head home; by this time a lot of the others from the service were heading home and the refreshments were being packed up.

Brad walked over to where Janey was standing with her mother and sister and cleared his throat beside her.

"What do you want?" Janey asked guardedly as she turned to face him. Nicky reached his arms out towards his father and Brad lifted him out of Janey's arms to give him a cuddle.

"Will you be bringing Nicky over this afternoon or will it be next weekend?" Brad asked levelly.

Janey glanced across to where 'Tanaya was standing with Brent, Ren and Matty; she turned an annoyed look back to Brad. "You heard what I said Wednesday afternoon, I really mean it Brad. I won't take my son where I don't believe he is safe." She said tightly as she reached for Nicky.

"Please be reasonable Janey. How about you come over and we can talk this over between us, just you and I. Work out what's best for Nicky." Brad pleaded softly.

"Are you implying I don't know what's best for my child?" Janey demanded angrily.

"I just mean you might like to know all the facts," Brad said quietly trying to keep things calm between them as Nicky began to fuss upset.

"Here Janey, let me take Nicky over to see Grandpa," Marina said gently as she reached for Nicky.

Janey released her son to her mother and watched as she walked away with him before turning to face Brad once more. "I will not have Nicky near 'Tanaya!" Janey snapped angrily, not trying to control her tone now that Nicky was gone.

Brad took a deep breath trying to control his own anger knowing that if he raised his voice it would only upset Janey and have her family rushing to her aid. "Don't you want to know both sides of the story?" he asked tightly.

"You're made it quite clear you're picking her over your son!" Janey snapped before hurrying away.

Brad was left standing there stunned; he looked across to where Nicky was wriggling in his Grandfathers arms and he could hear the little boy calling out "Daddaddaddad," in his childish voice.

"You alright mate?" Ren asked with concern when Brad returned to the group.

Brad nodded unable to force words past the lump in his throat.

"Okay if we head off now?" Matty asked with a glance around the emptying churchyard.

"Yeah," Brad managed faintly.

The group had reached the gateway into the parking lot when Ren stopped in his tracks.

"I forgot something," Ren said and headed back the way he had come.

Brad glanced back and was surprised to see Ren walking directly towards Janey where she was heading towards the parking lot with Adam, her parents and her sister.

Ren grinned his cocky grin as Janey stopped and raised her eyes to his face for a few seconds before looking away nervously.

"Hey Blondie," Ren's voice was as soft and sexy as Janey remembered it, the familiar goose bumps raising on her arms as she turned her gaze back to his.

Before anyone could stop him Ren stepped forward and cupped one side of her face in one hand; he lowered his head and kissed her unresisting lips. He felt her lips part beneath his and she sighed faintly as his tongue flicked into her mouth for a moment before he broke off the kiss. He brushed his thumb across her bottom lip and smiled down into her stunned eyes.

"I'll see you soon," Ren said faintly before lowering his hand and turning toward Adam who was stepping forward furiously, "you're on notice boy, I'm out and I'll be reclaiming anything that may be mine."

Ren's gaze flicked towards Janey's face for an instant before he nodded politely towards Janey's parents and sister; flashed Janey one last grin and headed back towards his friends with a spring in his step.




Brad & 'Tanaya Ch. 09



Janey slowly raised a hand to her lips, they tingled and she could still feel Ren's lips against hers. Her body felt more alive than it had for over a year and her heart was pounding in her chest.

"It's alright Janey, I'll make sure you're safe. I won't let him hurt you again, I'll see to it..." Adam was saying furiously, the grip he had taken on her upper arm annoyed her and Janey shrugged free.

"You don't know what you're talking about Adam," Janey said startling everyone, even herself. 

She stood motionless and watched as the group containing Ren reached their bikes and got on them; even after he had pulled his helmet on she could feel his eyes on her before he started his bike and they rode away.

# # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # 

Hi All

Okay that's the last chapter for Brad and 'Tanaya and YES I will be doing atleast one chapter for Ren now he is out.

But first I have a holiday planned so there probaly wont be anything posted for a while.

Hope you enjoyed Brad's story and aren't too disappointed he chose as he did.

Mygypsy.