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I Fell in Love with a Ghost

By: qhml1



This is not a Halloween story. I just added the bit at the end in honor of the holiday. Hope you enjoy. 

................................................

He just showed up one day, and the bar owner did everything but kiss his ass in front of everyone. He even set up a small table in the back near the restrooms, and no one was allowed to sit there except him.

The place had been a working class bar forever, but when the economy went bad and manufacturing dried up, all that was left were the unemployed and the retirees. The owner was just about to shut it down. He must have come up with some money, because he remodeled, brightened the place up a little, and put in a state of the art jukebox with an amazing sound system. Gradually it went from retirees to young professionals, because the drinks were reasonably priced, and the place was right on the edge of the business district. We were mostly secretaries, data geeks, and very junior management. Plus, the owner and his bartenders really kept an eye on things, diffusing trouble early on, taking keys, the owner sometimes poured one of us into a cab and paid the fare.

The man stood out, especially in a place where the clientele were usually under thirty, he was old.

Not ancient grandfather old, but old enough to have iron gray hair. It was long, I mean down past his shoulders long, falling in thick gray waves. And it wasn't dirty, it kind of shined. And he was neat, always dressed in tight blue jeans and a black t shirt that featured Harley dealerships from different states. His body was not grandpa either, he was borderline built. You could see the muscles ripple across his back and in his arms, and his stomach was tight. There was even a hint of a six pack.

I saw him smile once, surprised at his straight white teeth. He saw me looking and the smile immediately disappeared.

He would come in, talk to the bartenders for a minute, then sit down. He drank three beers in two hours on average. He always had a book or magazine in his hand. How he could read when the crowd showed up and the music started was beyond me. No one knew what he drove, he seemed to just appear, and then you'd look up and he would be gone. For a big man, I'm guessing a bit bigger than six feet and well over two hundred pounds, he moved like a ghost. I was on the back deck once and he walked right by me, and the shaky old floor never creaked or seemed to move. He was within three feet of me and gone before I even knew he was there.

Of course we were intrigued. We made up wild stories about him.

He was a hitman laying low, or an ex Navy Seal hiding from the Taliban. He was in witness protection. He was a cop, he was a mobster, and so on. We nicknamed him the Gray Ghost.

We had just about worked up the nerve to talk to him when an incident occurred that changed our minds.

Eric was big, six four and over two fifty, very little of it fat. He thought he was the meanest man in the place, the one everyone else walked around, especially if he had been drinking. And he drank a lot. The bartenders had already warned him, one more incident and he was barred permanently.

His asshole buddies, knowing how he was, waited until he was half wasted and started in on him over the Ghost.

"He's laughing at you, man. Bet he could take you down in less than a minute."

"Yeah, you can tell he's not impressed. Looks like there might be a new big dog in the pound."

Eric had heard enough. He staggered over to the table and leaned down, putting his hands on the table.

"Who the fuck are you? I hear you been talking shit about me."

He looked up, calmly, while he rolled the magazine he had been reading into a tight little cylinder.

"Who I am is none of your business. I'd have to notice you to talk about you, and frankly, you don't look interesting enough to warrant my attention. Now stagger back to your table like a good little boy, and we'll forget the whole thing."

Everyone had stopped talking. It was the first words any of us had heard him speak, and the calm tone totally belied his words. Had he really just dissed Eric?

Eric was confused for a minute, trying to process his words through his drunken brain. When he finally filtered it through he turned bright red.

"Asshole! I'm gonna fuc..."

That was all he got out before the Ghost poked him in the eye with the magazine, and didn't do it gently. Eric roared and staggered back, holding his eye.

"I'm gonna kill you!", he screamed.

The Ghost stood in one fluid movement and poked him in the other eye. Temporarily blinded, Eric swung wildly.

What happened next was a sight to behold. The older man swung the magazine, slapping him across the bridge of his nose. It rang out like a shot. Eric opened his mouth to scream, and he shoved the magazine down his throat, yanking it back quickly. While he stood gagging, the older man proceeded to rake the magazine back and forth across his face, the slaps echoing through the bar. Eric finally went down with a whimper.

By now the older man was breathing a little heavier. He looked over at the table of guys who had put Eric up to the confrontation.

"This dumbass isn't smart enough to do this on his own. Which one of you assholes put him up to it? I'd like a word with that individual."

He started walking across the floor, idly popping the magazine across his thigh. They all looked at Tom, the ringleader, and realizing he had been made, he turned and fled out the door, the magazine hitting him in the head before it swung closed.

The bartender was helping Eric up, telling him loudly he and all his friends were barred permanently, and not to ever come back. Ghost hadn't even stopped, calmly walking through the door and into the night.

I glanced down and saw the magazine, and picked it up. The Smithsonian, a little highbrow for this crowd.

.................................................

Two weeks later I stepped out of my car. It was pouring rain, matching my mood.

"Great" I thought, "just great. I'll look like a drowned rat before I get to the door."

Suddenly It seemed to stop raining. I'd already had two beers at home, and it confused me. I looked up, seeing a large umbrella. I followed the handle down to the arm, and the arm up to the face. The Ghost!

He didn't say a word, taking my elbow gently and escorting me to the door. As I entered he actually smiled, before disappearing into the night.

My life was a mess. Kelly Pinckney, dweeb extraordinaire. Twenty five. No college degree. No great career. No lover. Well, not anymore.

I actually went to college, still needed a year to get my degree in finance. I loved numbers, loved the research I did, trying to determine the variables of the stock market in this economy. It was all just for my amusement. I had no money. Had no prospects to get any, holding an entry level position that was very little more than a glorified secretary.

My love life was now nonexistent. Had a boyfriend, was thinking long term when he surprised me by dumping me.

After I cried and whined he told me the truth.

"I don't want to hurt you any more, but the truth is you're boring, in and out of bed. You don't want to try new things. You haven't changed your hairstyle or bought different clothes since I met you. For God's sake, Kelly, you're twenty five, not fifty five. If we stay up past eleven you're nodding."

He waved my attempt to argue off.

"I'm sorry, I really am, but it's true. You have potential Kelly, but you won't do anything about it. I think there's passion in there somewhere, but you won't let it out and I've given up mining for it. Find an older guy, someone more your style, pop out a couple babies. Be a housewife. It'll suit you."

He didn't know how close to the truth he was. I DID want to be a housewife, with kids. But I wanted a loving husband, passionate, skilled, who could help me reach the sexual heights I desired.

In the end, I wanted taken care of. I know, terribly old fashioned and out of date. I wanted a man who would look out for me, make the hard decisions, surround me with love. Like I was ever gonna find someone like that.

I determined to drown my sorrows. My friends knew I had been dumped and were supportive, but I saw the looks they gave each other when they thought I wasn't looking. Loser. It may as well been tattooed on my forehead.

The jukebox started up, and my friends got asked to dance. No one asked me, I guess one look at my face told them I wasn't in a dancing mood.

I had switched to whiskey, not a good thing. I was getting maudlin, also not a good thing. I was thinking abut calling a cab, going home to my tiny apartment and cry into my pillow, knowing I was going to be alone the rest of my life, I could tell. Maybe I should get a cat. Wait, my lease wouldn't let me. I really was going to be alone. Damn, damn, damn.

I had to pee, really bad. I got up and semi staggered to the bathroom. Washing my face, decided fixing my makeup was a waste of time, and started back to my table, to finish my drink and wait on the cab, when I saw him.

The Ghost. Somehow he had slipped in and was at his table, reading a book.

I looked around the bar. The girls in their flirting clothes, the men, mostly professionals, in their conservative casual. Only two had on jeans, and they were designer, to be seen, not worn.

He had on Levi boot cuts, a pair I bet he had owned for quite a while, judging by the fade.

"Now there's a REAL man" I thought, and before my brain knew what my body was doing I walked to his table and plopped down.

He looked over the book in surprise, before a slow smile took over his face.

"Hi. I'm Kelly."

I stuck my hand out. To my surprise he took it gently, just holding it instead of shaking it.

"Well, good evening to you, Miss Kelly."

Even his voice was sexy. A light baritone, with a hint of a Southern drawl. He still held my hand.

"And you are?" I prompted, anxious to draw him into conversation.

He started a bit.

"Please, excuse my manners. I'm..." he paused for a few seconds before grinning, his perfect white teeth shining in the dimness of the bar, "..The Ghost."

I gave my own little start. His grin got bigger.

"People talk" he said, "and the more alcohol the looser and louder the tongue. Now, Miss Kelly, what do you want?"

I looked into those warm brown eyes, and for once in my life decided to be truthful.

"I want a man. A real man." I gestured around the bar. His eyes widened, he probably didn't expect that.

"Not like these guys. Oh, they're nice enough, but they live in their own little universe. I want to meet someone who has been out in the real world. Been places, done things. Someone to show me how life really is."

I stopped suddenly, embarrassed, realizing what I had said. I looked back at my table, to see my friends staring at me, mouths open. Take that, I though, how does Miss Pitiful look now?

"An admirable ambition, Miss Kelly. But what does that have to do with me?"

He still hadn't let go of my hand, not that I minded.

"Nothing. But you're obviously older, and you're dressed for comfort, not for show. For lack of better words, you look like you've experienced life, like you don't have to prove anything to anybody. I'd just like to talk to you, if you don't mind."

He finally released my hand, and leaned back, obviously thinking. After a bit of silence while he held an internal debate, he nodded.

"All right. Please, join me." He signaled a bartender.

"Another Shiner Bock, Sam. And an Irish coffee for Miss Kelly, minus the Irish."

He looked at me.

"I believe you've consumed enough alcohol this night. If you want to talk, you should at least be able to remember it. Now, tell me about yourself."

So for the next hour and a half I spilled my guts, pretty much going back to high school. He listened attentively, asking a question now and then. When I got to the part about being dumped, he frowned.

"Did you love him?"

"I thought I did. Now, I'm not so sure. But it still hurt, mostly because of what he said, and the fact that it was the truth."

"And what do you want now?"

"To prove to myself and the world that he was wrong. I want adventure. I want to embrace life. I need a guide. Will you let me talk to you some more?"

He held out his hand.

"Phone."

I handed it to him. He punched his number in.

"Here. If you're serious, call me tomorrow afternoon. Now, I have to leave, and you should get back to your friends. I'm sure they have questions. My advice, say I invited you over, that I'm obviously interested in you, but stop there. Their imagination will fill in the blanks."

He stood, pulled me to my feet and into a hug.

"I'm going to kiss you now" he whispered, "half the bar is watching. Don't act surprised."

He cupped my face in his hands, lowered his mouth and gave me a slow sensuous kiss, for at least five seconds. Both of our faces were flushed, and I was a little light headed.

He grinned, gave me another small kiss on the cheek, and strode away. I watched him all the way to the door.

..................................................

My friends almost dragged me back to our table.

"God Almighty, girl! What got into you? The Ghost? Is he as sexy looking up close as he is from a distance? Is he a good kisser? Never mind, I can see by the look on your face he is. Is me...."

I held up my hand.

"Slow down, Heather. He's just a man. I went to the bathroom and he struck up a conversation with me, invited me to sit. We talked, had a drink. And yes, he's a very good kisser. Years of experience, I suspect."

The girls chattered happily, and were impressed when I told them he had gotten my number and was supposed to call the next day. A lie, of course, I was supposed to call him, if I could work up the nerve. I could feel the 'L' fading from my forehead.

I only stayed a few more minutes. Now sober, I felt safe driving home. When I got outside the rain was gone, and a full moon floated serenely in the sky. I took it as a good omen.

..................................................

I woke the next morning with a slight headache, wondering if I'd dreamed last night. Checking my phone, I was relieved to see his number, under "Ghost".

I did my normal Saturday morning routine, cleaning my tiny apartment, went grocery shopping, Had my little Honda washed. Back home I stared at the clock, debating on whether to call. He seemed like a nice guy, but I didn't know him, and the little episode with Eric showed me he could be forceful if provoked.

At 12:05 I decided it was far enough past noon, and hit send. He picked up on the third ring.

"Good afternoon, Miss Kelly. How are you this fine day?"

Damn he sounded sexy. I actually stuttered a little greeting him. After that I let thirty seconds of silence go by.

"Miss Kelly? Are you still there?"

"Yes, yes, I'm here! Sorry, I just didn't know what to say. Can we meet? Talk some more? How about lunch? I'll buy. Unless of course you've already had lunch. In that case..."

He interrupted me, gently.

"Easy now. Lunch would be fine. And I'll buy, my daddy would skin me alive if he thought I'd let a woman pay. Can you be at The Bistro by one?"

The Bistro. One of the hottest restaurants in town, impossible to get into, and outrageously expensive. No way in hell we could get in on short notice, even for lunch.

"I can, but I doubt we'd get in. How about someplace else?"

"The Bistro. One. Don't be late."

He hung up.

I freaked, knowing I didn't have time to get ready, and probably wouldn't be eating there anyway. My dressiest jeans, nice top, white sandals with a two inch heel, minimal makeup. I ran out the door, and was in the parking lot by 12:55.

I didn't see him until he took my arm gently. How does he do that?

He had on black jeans, well worn black cowboy boots that were highly polished, and a peach short sleeved button up shirt. His hair was neatly woven into a braid and tied with a little leather strap. Wow.

He greeted me, guiding me along. We passed a motorcycle and I actually stopped and looked it over. I knew from watching television that it was a 'chopper'. It looked like a rolling sculpture. bright orange, yellow, and gleaming chrome. It also looked very expensive.

"Nice, isn't it" he said, with a grin.

"It's beautiful. You know, I've never ridden on a motorcycle."

"Really? I'll see if I can find someone to give you a ride."

I shuddered.

"No, no, I'm afraid I'd be too scared to be a good passenger."

"We'll see" He said cryptically, ushering me inside. 

Much to my surprise, the hostess smiled and said something in French. Some one answered her, and I looked to see who it was. Damn, he speaks French too? The hostess ignored the line, picked up a couple of menus, and led us right to a table. It was in the outside dining area, visible from the street.

He asked for water with a twist of lemon, while I got unsweetened tea. He frowned at my choice.

"What? Is it not good here?"

He grinned.

"I'm sure it'll be top notch. No, where I come from, tea isn't tea until it's about half sugar."

"You must be from the Deep South then. My company sent us down to Charlotte once for training. It was like drinking syrup. I wasn't keen on barbecue, but I became addicted to catfish. What does fish camp mean, any way?"

"Shame on you! You've obviously never been fed true barbecue. I'll have to make sure your education includes a taste of the real thing."

"In the old days, if you went fishing, it took coordination. You had to get a neighbor to watch your livestock, tend your crop. You were expected to return the favor when it was their turn."

"You went in a wagon to the river and usually spent a couple of days. You smoked or salted your catch for later eating. Of course, word would get out, and you'd have people stopping by at suppertime, to enjoy fresh fish before they went home. So, you camped and fished. When electricity came along and fish restaurants popped up, people called them fishcamps, after the old meaning. It was where you went when you didn't have time to fish yourself. There's your Southern history lesson for today."

He had ordered for both of us, without asking.

"I want you to taste this" he explained. "If you don't love it, you can have anything off the menu that tickles your fancy."

It was a roast beef sandwich, but not your typical roast beef sandwich. Herb roasted, hand sliced, thick chunks in a crusty roll, with homemade mayonaise tinged with horseradish, garlic roasted baby red potatoes and a tomato salad. There was also a small bowl of beef broth to dip the sandwich in.

The tomato salad was eight different kinds of tomato, cut into small cubes with a vinegarette dressing and basil, served in a parfait cup. It was probably the best meal I had ever eaten.

My phone vibrated and without thinking I checked it. A text message, from Heather.

"The Bistro? WTF?"

I looked around to see her standing on the sidewalk. Before I could reply there were two more messages.

Cindy: "The Bistro? Nosh?" Nosh was her shorthand for no shit.

Janey: "OMG! He's gonna get some!"

I looked up to see him frowning.

"I know we're at least a generation apart, but where I come from it's considered rude to ignore a dining companion to answer the phone."

"You're right. I apologize." I said, turning off my phone and sliding it into my jeans. Let them stew.

I was thoroughly satisfied with the meal and thanked him. He grinned.

"we're not done yet. Time for dessert."

The blueberries were in season, so we had Blueberry Fool, fresh blueberries stirred into blueberry jam, and layered alternately with creamed whipped at the restaurant, topped with fresh blueberries, in a large champagne glass. The whipped cream was tinged with lavender. I ignored the screams of my calorie counting conscience and cleaned the glass.


I Fell in Love with a Ghost



I leaned back with a sigh.

"Thank you for lunch. I think I'm going to need a nap now."

He just smiled.

"Oh no, not happening. You're here to broaden your horizons, remember? Now, run along to the restroom. I see your hands trembling, text your friends back and meet me out front. I'm about to put something exciting between your legs."

Huh? 

Before I could frame an answer, he was striding towards the door.

It took me five minutes to text back, giving cryptic messages, following his advice from the night before. Let them use their imagination to fill in the blanks.

I walked outside, not seeing him. There was some guy on the chopper we had noticed going in, wearing a black t shirt and matching bandana, talking to Heather. I walked towards her looking around for him. When I got close, I almost had a heart attack. He got off the bike and met me.

"There you are, babe. I was starting to worry. Look, it's your friend Heather. She wants me to give her a ride, what do you think?"

I glared at Heather until she flushed slightly. Claim jumping little bitch, she better back off. I reached up, pulled his head down, and gave him a nice kiss. He covered his surprise with a grin.

"We don't have time right now, sweetie. Maybe later. Now Heather, I'd love to stay and talk, but we're running just a bit late. See you at work Monday."

She stuttered through a goodbye and walked down the street.

He was pulling something off the side of his bike. A helmet.

He put it on me gently.

"Why do I have to wear a helmet?" I asked.

"Because this is your first time. You should always wear protection your first time."

He grinned while I processed the innuendo laced statement.

"Besides, it'll make you feel safer. And I'm always careful when I'm transporting precious cargo."

I blushed all the way down to my toes.

I hesitated.

"I'm afraid. What if it scares me too much or I don't like it?"

"Then I'll stop immediately. I'll go around the block first, make sure you can handle it. But you have to get on, Heather is down the street snapping pictures like mad. You'll look like the scared little girl you think you are if you don't at least go round the block."

I made a decision and took the helmet off.

"Let's give her a show then. I think I can make it around the block without a helmet."

Hi grinned again.

"Turn around."

Wondering why, I complied. I felt his hands in my hair, pulling and tugging for a couple of minutes.

"There. All done. Look in the mirror, tell me what you think."

I looked. He had done my hair in a braid, just like his, down to matching leather ties.

"Unrestrained hair doesn't work on a bike. After a mile your hair would give Jamaican corn rows a run for their money. It would take you days to get the tangles out."

"Now, when you get on, sit still. Don't wiggle, try to stay directly behind me. I'll go slow, but feel free to hold tight."

I climbed behind him, feeling the vibrations from the motor against my bottom. 

After a few seconds to let me settle, he let the clutch out and we rolled gently away. We were half way down the block when he suddenly hit the gas. I shrieked and scooted as tightly as I could into his back. He slowed down half a block later, turned the corner, and pulled over. I was breathing heavily.

"Heather was still snapping pictures, so I goosed it. I hope she got the shot, especially of you practically climbing my back."

"Asshole! You scared the shit out of me."

I realized what I said and tried to apologize but he cut me off.

"Don't. I didn't take offense. And if we spend any more time together, I expect you to voice your feelings and opinions like the confident woman you should be. Understand?"

I nodded.

"Now, do you want me to take you back to your car, or would you like a ride?"

I couldn't wait and told him so. He made me put the helmet back on, to my disappointment.

"You don't have eye protection, and it would make me feel safer. Next time, if you want, I'll get you some goggles, all right?"

I would have agreed to anything to ensure a next time.

..................................................

I was nervous, but it was controllable. Soon the vibrations and the wind calmed me, and I enjoyed it immensely. We soon left the city limits behind. An hour later he was pulling into the fairgrounds of a neighboring county. The parking lot was packed, and getting fuller.

People stopped and watched as we parked. I was taking my helmet off when a couple of young girls, late teens at best, came by.

"Nice ride" one said.

I grinned. "Yes he is, and the bike is fun, too."

Shrieking with laughter, they ran towards the grandstand. I turned around to see him laughing.

"There you go! Kind of fun saying what's on your mind, isn't it?"

"Glorious. Now where are we?"

"Carver County Blues Festival. Some nice bands, but I really want to see a new duo, Freeman Feelbad, Jr. and Sweet Thang. You should see their stuff on Youtube."

I was never into music that much, so I had no idea what the blues were. By the third act I was a fan. When the act he wanted to see came on, I was impressed. The woman looked to be about thirty, and I'd bet the man was over forty, but their voices were good, and they blended perfectly. She was a gifted guitar player, but he did things with slide guitar that was amazing. They closed their set with a Romi Mayes song, After The Show, the mans' slide guitar work complimenting her rhythm work perfectly. It brought the crowd to its' feet. They came back later, apparently they were part of a band called Hatchett Job, another guitar player, keyboard, and drummer. Almost everyone sang lead, and the harmonies were amazing.

Before I knew it I was dancing in the aisle, flinging my hair and wriggling to the beat. I looked up and saw him smiling, and just kept dancing. He bought us both tee shirts on the way out.

"Damn, I wish I'd put this on." I said, as we moved towards the dark parking lot.

"What's stopping you? Step behind that building, no one will see you. And if they do, I'm sure they'll enjoy it."

I could see the challenge in his eyes.

"Watch for me" I said, unbuttoning my shirt. I turned my back, slipping the shirt off and tossing it over my shoulder. "Catch! I giggled.

I was just slipping the tee over my head when I heard clapping and cheering. I popped my head out to see four guys and two girls standing there. I was red, but I did a little curtsey.

"Next show is at ten" I yelled, as I strutted back to my man. My man? Did I ever like the sound of that.

He gave me a big hug. "I'll have to file away you like the color pink" he said, referencing my bra.

"You peeked?" I gasped.

"No, babe. I stared. Very nice view, too."

I was hoping he didn't see my blush in the dark.

................................................

In due time he delivered me back to my car in the parking lot of The Bistro, kissed my cheek, and roared off. I was disappointed, before reality hit. To him I was just a foolish little girl, playing at being grownup.

I called him the next afternoon, but it went to message. I didn't see him until Tuesday night at the bar.

He had his usual table and stood as I approached. Damn, I could get used to manners. He kissed my cheek. I had had enough of that foolishness, so I pulled him into a long kiss.

"I'm not a baby, Ghost. Stop kissing me like one."

He grinned. "Instructions noted. Have a good day at work?"

"Wonderful! Let me tell you about it."

I wasn't at work fifteen minutes before Heather was all over me.

"Spill! Who is he? Where did he come from? Is he in good in bed as he looks?"

I grinned.

"Nosey much? We're like the military. I didn't ask, he didn't tell. We had a ball after you saw us, you should really should get someone to give you a motorcycle ride. The feeling is awesome! Look."

I showed her a photo on my phone. Me, sitting on the bike, wearing my blues shirt, the tail tied tightly below my boobs, He had put his bandana on me, I thought I looked wild and sexy, like a real biker babe.

She was awed.

"So, are you his bitch now?"

"No" I giggled, "at least not yet. Working on it, though."

She snatched my phone and sent it out to all our friends. I didn't know it, but she sent one to my ex. My phone went off all morning. I spent all my break and most of my lunch answering texts.

I called him Monday night.

"Hi." I said, suddenly getting tongue tied.

"Hey" he said, in that warm Southern drawl, "how's my adventure partner tonight?"

"Looking for another adventure. Wanna go for a drink?"

"I'd love to, Miss Kelly, but I'm out of town. I had some business to take care of. I should be back by tomorrow, but I'm not sure enough to say."

I was disappointed.

"Maybe tomorrow then. I downloaded a bunch of blues songs today, it's all I've listened to."

I could feel his smile over the phone.

"Good. I'll share some of my favorites next time we're together. I've got to run now, I'll see you later."

"Promise?"

"Promise. Sweet dreams Miss Kelly."

The next day I was surprised to see Ron standing at my cubicle. I looked at him, trying to decide if I was still sad that he had dumped me. No, not really. He was right. I was dull. But I'm working on it, too bad he won't get the benefit.

"Ron, hi. What's up?"

He stood for a minute before showing my picture on his phone.

"Was there a point to this?" He actually sounded a bit upset.

"I'm sorry Ron. Really. Heather had my phone yesterday, she must have sent it. It doesn't mean anything, the bike belongs to my date that night. He took the picture."

I don't know what upset him more, the fact that I was dating, or that I was dating someone with a cool bike. Why should he care?

"Well, nice bike." 

He stood around for just a minute.

"Anything else, Ron?"

He shook himself.

"No. See you later, then."

"Bye."

I watched him go, wondering about the whole exchange.

................................................

The Ghost grinned when I told him.

"He's jealous. He expected you to mope and feel pitiful, and you shook yourself and jumped right back into the dating game. Does he know it's me?"

"Were we on a date Saturday?"

He looked surprised.

"Of course we were. I asked you out. You accepted. We dined, attended an event. I think that qualifies, don't you?"

"Definitely. A very nice date. It was so nice I'd like another, please. Give me another nice surprise. And he has no idea who it was."

His smile was priceless.

"I'll see what I can do. In fact..."

He stopped, looking behind me. Heather. What was her deal, anyway?

"Heather" I said, noncommittally. She took that as an invitation and plopped down. Seeing it, Cindy was soon there, and then Janey. The little table became really crowded. He was polite, but I could sense his irritation. Janey was on one side, Heather on the other, and they were both bringing out the big guns, touching, flashing cleavage. Damned cows.

He stood suddenly.

"Excuse me."

He walked around the table, pulled me up, and led me back across to his chair. He sat back down, pulling me down onto his lap.

"That's better. Now everyone has a little more room. Much more comfortable, don't you think, honey?"

"Definitely" I coed, "I like the upholstery a lot better." I wiggled sensually for a second.

"But there's a hard lump in the middle. Oh well, if I wiggle enough I can find a comfortable spot for it."

The girls were glowing, and he had a slight blush, even as he grinned. I stopped wiggling, suddenly aware there really was a lump underneath me. I turned red, but his arm kept me firmly anchored. Every time I'd start to calm down he'd rock forward a little.

We talked, I don't remember about what. He would caress my cheek, and I'd hold his hand and kiss it. The girls excused themselves after a bit and left us alone.

"Don't laugh, don't laugh, don't laugh" I repeated over and over, like a mantra. One look at his face and I exploded. He gave in, and was laughing right with me.

"What was that all about?"

"Jealousy."

"Jealousy? Of what?"

"Come on, Miss Kelly. Tell me Heather hasn't always been the hot girl, used to getting the best guys and all the attention. Am I right?"

I nodded.

"She's jealous. All of a sudden you're not a follower. You've got something she thought you incapable of, and she can't understand why you have it and not her. That's what tonight was all about, to see how serious I am about you."

I started getting mad. He stopped me.

"Relax. When I put you on my lap she took the hint. But I'd bet you my motorcycle she'll wait until you're not around and make a run at me."

"I'll yank that fake blond hair out of the bitch's head!"

He took my hand.

"Don't. I think I'll string her along, make her think I'm being swayed, then dump her for you. That'll give her a reality check."

"I don't like it" I said stubbornly. 

"Why?"

Because I want you. You're mine, understand? Because I'm afraid you'll like her more and I won't be able to keep up. Her boobs are bigger, she's prettier, and I bet she knows a lot more tricks than I do.

I didn't say any of that of course. What I did say was that I wasn't comfortable being that cruel. Instead of an argument, he smiled.

"You passed."

"What?"

"You passed the integrity test. You're a lot more mature than you give yourself credit for. Now, it's time to ramp up the wow factor."

"I'm afraid to ask."

He eyed me critically.

"When was the last time you changed your hairstyle, got new clothes, shoes, a makeover? Do you own any sexy lingerie, cute shorts, belly shirts? Cast off your rags, Cinderella. Time to go to the ball."

He kissed me after another half hour and stood to leave.

"I'll be out of town again tomorrow until next week. Sorry, can't be helped. Call me, and we'll talk."

A little kiss and he was gone. The tribe was ready for me when I joined their table. Heather was a little catty. I thought it was funny.

.................................................

I called him almost every night. After the fourth call he started calling me. We talked. Talked about everything. When he asked me how I saw my dream life being I was embarrassed.

"It's kind of dull."

"If it's your dream, it can't be too dull. Spill."

I took a deep breath.

"Ron was right about a lot of things. One of them was telling me I should find a man, marry, pop out a couple babies, and be a housewife. I know it's terribly old fashioned, especially when todays' standard of living almost requires two incomes, but it's still my dream. I want to take care of the house, nuture my babies, and love my man with all my heart. You can go ahead and laugh now."

There was enough silence I wondered if the call got dropped.

"Ghost, are you still there?"

His voice sounded a little raw, like he was trying to stifle something.

"Yes, yes I'm here. And it's a beautiful dream, baby. I hope it comes true one day. I have to go now, we'll talk some tomorrow."

Before he rang off I heard something that sounded suspiciously like a sob. I stared at the phone, wondering.

The next night I told him abut my old dream of being a financial analyst, how I had to drop out of college when the money ran out, how much I hated my job. Instead of pretending to humor me, he led me into a two hour discussion on finance, the debacle Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac turned out to be, and how the housing boom, based on thin air and exaggerated numbers, spurred on by savvy Wall Street investors and terrible leadership from Greenspan had lead to our current situation.

"Damn, Miss Kelly, it's almost midnight. You need to sleep, work tomorrow and all that. Good night."

"Ghost?" I said in a little girl voice.

"Yes?"

"Would you stop calling me Miss Kelly? It makes me feel like I'm fourteen."

"Sorry, I never thought. Anything special you'd like me to call you?"

"I really like it when you call me babe, but if you just drop the miss, it'll be fine."

"I could feel his grin through the phone.

"all right then. Goodnight, babe."

I held the phone smiling for two minutes before I hung up.

He finished his trip early, to my delight. He never said where he went, and I knew better to ask.

We met at the bar. The bartenders had started treating me a little better. They would have my drink ready when I walked in the door, and would have it on his table, whether he was there or not. I could tell this irritated Heather no end.

I had always been her wingman, getting her leftovers and castoffs from college onward. The fact that I had stepped out of her shadow was something she had a hard time with.

He had called to tell me he was in town, and asked me to meet him at the bar. I wore my new black skirt, two inches shorter than I had ever owned, and it still looked conservative. I had a new blouse on, red, silky and shining. I left open two buttons more than I had ever done before.

The approval in his eyes made it worth every dime.

"Damn Kelly, you really are a babe. Nice outfit."

I laughed it off.

"This old thing? I've had it for..." I looked at my watch, "about two days."

His hug and the light kiss he gave me made me feel boneless.

"Do you have a nice evening dress? If not, get one. We have an event to attend tomorrow."

"What kind of event?"

"One that's a surprise. I'll pick you up at seven, all right?"

Before I could ask anymore questions the girls invaded. Before they could pull up another chair I hopped into his lap. Heather looked like she had kissed a pickle.

"So, are you going with Kelly to the company picnic next week? If she's busy, you're welcome to join us."

"Picnic, next week?" He had a glint of interest in his eye. I locked down on his hand.

"I was going to tell you tonight, honey. Rest up, I want to win the three legged race."

He gave them a smile.

"We'll see you there, then."

They took their cue and left.

"Company picnic?" He said, with a raised eyebrow.

"Were you going to invite me?"

"No, because I wasn't going. I never have a good time."

"Well, babe, you're going now. I'll make sure we have fun."

He turned serious again.

"Don't forget. Tomorrow. Seven. Formal."

He gave me a nice kiss and disappeared.

................................................

Back at the table, I told them I had to get a formal dress tomorrow for my date. Cindy and Jane volunteered to go, so Heather decided to come along.

"Someone needs to keep you out of the clutches of these fashion clowns."

She was smiling, but I could tell she had offended them.

The shopping trip was a disaster. Heather tried to steer us away from the best shops, and made some suggestions on dresses that looked horrible. I was about to give up and come back by myself, when Cindy held up a dress.

"This one" she said.

A little black dress, simplicity at its' best. A full skirt falling two inches below my knee, the bodice clung to me like it had been custom tailored. Even Heater was impressed, though she tried to hide it. It even gave me a little cleavage. Just to make me feel more confident, I got new lace topped thigh highs, new four inch heels, and absolutely the tiniest black thong I had ever worn.

I did my hair up in a French twist, applied my makeup three times before I was satisfied, and waited. At six fifty five a Cadillac Escalade pulled up, and a man in a suit walked up the sidewalk. Was he sending a driver? I figured we would be taking my car.

Opening the door, I stood, shocked. The suit had to be designer, and fit him very well. His hair was done neatly, minimizing the length. While I was studying him, he was gazing openmouthed at me.

He leaned in and gave me a light kiss, careful of my makeup.

"Very nice, babe, very nice indeed."




I Fell in Love with a Ghost



I glowed before returning the compliment.

"And you sir, clean up very nicely." I looked at him critically. Black suit, grey silk shirt, black and gray striped tie. I had a sudden suspicion.

"Are you wearing a Harley tee under that shirt?"

He just grinned bigger and helped me into the car.

We went to a lecture given by a very famous financial analyst. He had predicted the crash two years before it happened, and wrote a book on how to survive it as it stretched out for years. People nearly ridiculed him out of the business, now those same people were clamoring for him to handle their accounts. Tickets were limited to five hundred, and sold out in four hours. He was the Mick Jagger of the financial world.

I was fascinated, and even got to ask a question during the q&a afterwards. Thinking it odd that we had to get so dressed up for a lecture, I found there was a meal and reception afterwards, followed by dancing, to a large orchestra.

The cream of the local financial world was there, including the CEO of my company. We ended up sharing a table, with him, his wife, and two more couples. At first I just listened, but soon I was comfortable enough to offer an opinion.

After I successfully made a point, my CEO asked who I worked for.

"You, sir" I said surprising him.

"One of our new analysts, I take it?"

Before I could answer and be embarrassed, Ghost spoke up.

"She's not one of your analysts, sir. Not yet anyway. She's in support, gaining a little experience while she prepares for her final year of college."

Well covered, I thought.

"When you get your degree, young lady, make sure we have your resume. Earmark it for my eyes. And one more thing. As my employee, you are required to dance with me, and your husband must return the favor with my wife."

"He's not..." was all I got out before he overrode me.

"We'd be delighted, sir. And despite what she was trying to say, I believe I can get your wife back with all toes attached."

The orchestra was playing songs designed for an older crowd, and I shared a waltz with my CEO, while Ghost practically seemed to float along, pulling his wife with him. She was flushed and smiling when they returned to the table. 

I got introduced to practically every local mover and shaker that had been able to get a ticket. I actually got a few invitations to send resumes, which made my CEO frown.

We danced and mingled until the wee hours of the morning. He walked me to my door, gave me another nice kiss, and was gone.

We went to lunch Sunday, and he asked how I felt I was progressing.

"Famously. But I fear it's all you, and I'm just a reflection."

He squeezed my hand gently.

"Not so, little babe. I wasn't the one the guys were gawking at when you danced in the aisles at the blues show. You're very sensual when you dance, anyone ever tell you that? And I wasn't the one who charmed the pants off every man in the room at the reception last night, and most were admiring your brain as well as your body. Could the old Kelly have done that? I think not."

I glowed under his praise, before deciding he was right. The old Kelly would have died before she asked a question of such a famous person in front of a crowd, and would have been tongue tied beyond belief in front of those rich, powerful people. No, I was coming out of my shell, and loving it.

He gave me a nice little kiss, saying he would be out of town for the next few days, but would meet me Friday after lunch.

"Can you take a half day of vacation?"

"No, but I can take a full day."

"Even better. I'll see you Friday morning. I'll take you out for breakfast. Then we'll have another little adventure. I'll have you home fairly early, I want you rested up for the picnic Saturday."

He wouldn't tell me any more. 

We talked every night, for at least an hour. He still hadn't told me anything about himself, where he was from, what he did for a living. Suddenly I had a very chilling thought. What if he were married? It upset me so bad I couldn't sleep well. 

I debated for two days before I brought it up.

"Ghost, I know you don't want to talk about yourself, and I promise not to pry. You've been very good to me and I don't want to upset you, but there's not a Mrs. Ghost around, is there?"

There was a long silence. I thought maybe he had hung up, but then I heard him exhale.

"There was, babe, but not anymore."

"I'm sorry. Did she leave or did you?"

"She did."

I heard the pain in his voice.

"Do you miss her?"

"Well, it's not a searing pain anymore, more like a dull throb. But it's over, and I can't change the past."

"I'm so sorry, Ghost. I promise I won't pry. Well, not for a while anyway. I am a woman, after all."

He cheered a little.

"Yes you are. A real live, honest to goodness woman. Young, vibrant, beautiful, full of promise. I feel good just looking at you. The man who ends up with you will be very lucky indeed."

It thrilled me and saddened me at the same time. I wanted him to be the lucky one, damn it. He needed love too, I could feel it in his little gestures, his touches, his smile. Something was missing. And I latched on to the 'beautiful' part of the comment.

...............................................

I decided to cheer him up, and when he showed up Friday morning, I invited him in, the first time he had been inside my apartment. Up for three hours, I had made him a full, old time Southern breakfast.

Eggs, grits, gravy, home fries, livermush[you have to live in the South to appreciate it, and trust me, you never want to see it made or know what's in it], and country ham, served with a big plate of homemade biscuits. Homemade strawberry preserves I had picked up at the farmers' market and real butter. Hot, strong coffee. No latte here.

His eyes lit up and I swear his mouth watered.

"Eat, before it gets cold. And if you want to show me any appreciation, eat a lot."

He showed more appreciation than I thought possible. I ate a little, but enjoyed watching him more than eating.

He pushed his plate away with a contented sigh, rubbing his stomach.

"Come here" he said, patting his lap. I was there in an instant, and he pulled me down and gave me the deepest, most passionate kiss I had ever had.

When he pulled back, we were both breathing heavily. My nipples were rock hard, and there was a lump in his jeans.

"That was the kindest, most considerate thing anyone has done for me in a long, long time. Thank you."

"You're so very welcome, hon." I paused, to gauge his reaction to my calling him hon, but his smile seemed even brighter. "It's about time I did something for you, for a change."

He hugged me, to the point I was about to lose my breath, before he pulled back.

"You've done a lot for me babe, more than you know. You've succeeded in bringing me back to the land of the living, something very pricy professionals hadn't been able accomplish. I should be paying you."

He stood me up before I could ask what he meant, the grin returning.

"In fact, I intend to relieve some of my debt today. I warn you now, do not complain once, or I'll bring you home. I'll be spending a little money today, all on you. Don't worry, I can afford it. Ready?"

"Probably not, but it won't stop me. Lead on."

He took me out, and I noticed he was driving the Escalade again. He grinned.

"Hard to strap shopping to the back of a bike."

I got another surprise when he stopped and Cindy jumped in.

"I invited her. I believe she's your truest friend, even if she isn't the closest. Besides, do you really want just my opinion? I'll dress you like the sex goddess you are, and that would make it hard for you to get any work done at the office."

I glowed while Cindy giggled.

We hit almost all the upscale shops. He bought dresses, skirts, jackets, blouses, jeans, tops, all very fashionable, all more daring than I would have picked. I had to admit though, I looked damn good in them.

I got six pair of new shoes, the shortest with 3" heels. We were done, I thought, until we went by a lingerie shop. I had been in a couple of times, but it was so expensive I bought very little.

He stopped, handed Cindy his debit card, gave her his pin number.

"In you go. Buy something new to go under every outfit. Do not worry about cost. Cindy, I expect you to get as much as she does, as a thank you for your help today. If she balks, come out and get me. I'll be waiting on the concourse. Babe knows I was married once, and one thing I learned, nothing makes a woman feel better than nice lingerie. Scoot now, if you don't take too long we can work in lunch."

He was practically pushing, with Cindy dragging, so I had no choice.

We had a ball. Thongs, boyshorts, tangas, pushup bras, the pile kept growing. Cindy held up a corset, Satiny, pink, with ribbons.

"This would look killer on you."

It didn't take much to get me to try it on. It fit like a glove, pushing my 32b's up until they were almost out of the top. I got a matching thong and seamed hose. An idea hit me.

"Be bold, be bold" I repeated in my head, while I filled Cindy in. She was all for it.

He was sitting on a bench, reading a paper, when she came out.

"Can you come in for just a minute? Kelly needs your opinion."

Of course, he got up and followed. We had already told the salesgirl, and of course, looking at her commission, there was no way she was going to object.

He looked around, not seeing me.

"Kelly?" he called out softly.

"Back here. Come on, there's no one here but me. It's safe."

I had on the corset, which I had pulled down until my nipples were just visible. Already excited, I had twisted them when I heard him call out. They were hard enough to put eyes out if you got too close. I had on the matching thong, the stockings clipped to the corset, and a pair of five inch heels he had just bought.

I heard him come through the door and stepped out of the dressing room.

"Does this make me look sexy?" I asked, softly.

I think his eyes actually bulged as I did a slow turn, the strap of the thong just peeking out between my cheeks, ending in a little bow. He was actually red in the face.

"Well?"

He couldn't speak. He just stared. Then he slowly nodded his head yes, turned, and left.

I stood there for a second, chest heaving, as excited sexually as I had ever been in my whole life, before coming down and smiling a little smile. He wanted me! You could see it in his eyes.

The thong was soaked, so I left it on. Cindy came in, saw me smiling, and hugged me.

"Go get him" she whispered.

We dressed, and he did take us to lunch. He was awfully quiet, it took him most of the meal to center himself. I caught him looking at me when he thought I didn't notice, and he flushed every time. It was the first time I had ever seen him without his trademark self confident look.

We took Cindy home, and she kissed us both, thanking us for the day.

I thought we were done, but he turned away from my apartment.

"Where are we going now?"

His cocky little grin was back.

"Now the adventure begins. How much do you trust me?"

"Completely" I said, holding his arm and resting my head on his shoulder. He never offered to make me move.

We passed the dealership where he got his bike serviced, and into a little strip mall. A tattoo parlor, a specialty clothing store, and a sex shop. I started freezing up. We stopped in front of the tattoo parlor.

I had a death grip on his hand when we went through the door. He seemed to know the owner, apparently they rode bikes together.

"Here she is" he said. "a blank palette."

He looked me over.

"Do you know what you want?" he asked me.

"I didn't even know I was going to come in here until five minutes ago. I'm not so sure about this, it's awfully permanent."

They both smiled.

"The asshole didn't tell you, did he? What I'm going to do isn't permanent. I'll be painting them on. I'll be using an ink that will last about a month before it fades. It was designed to let people see if they were going to be comfortable with a tattoo before they committed."

I stuck my tongue out at Ghost. His grin was a mile wide.

"I thought it would be fun, give them something to talk about at the picnic."

I looked at the owner.

"He can be an asshole, but he's a loveable asshole, and as long as he's MY asshole, I can live with it."

I watched his eyes closely as I stressed my, but his smile never changed.

I looked at his wall of designs while they talked.

"If you don't see something you like, I can free hand just about anything."

I had an idea.

"Can I have two?"

"Sure babe. Anything you want."

"When you pick them, depending on where you want them, go into the the dressing room and take off your top and bra, if necessary. There are wraps on the shelf. wrap one around and clip it, and we'll be ready."

"Excuse me" I said, running to the SUV, snatching what I wanted from the lingerie bag. I ran into the dressing room, removing my top and bra, donning the purple, low cup one I had brought with me. I clipped the wrap and went back out into the shop.

"I want the Tasmanian Devil, there, just the torso and arms, and I want you to make it look like he's climbing out of my bra. Can you do that?"

"I can make it look like anything you want" said the tattoo artist. "Drop the wrap a little so I can make a mark, and we'll get started."

Surprising both of them, I took the wrap off. He made the mark, and I surprised them even farther by pulling the bra down to just above my nipple, which was hard as rock, by the way.

It'll be quicker this way, and we can judge the finished product better."

He had me sit, and sat on a stool that made him eye level with my breast. He painted carefully, small strokes that felt like a massage. It was all I could do to keep from squirming. When he finished it really looked like the devil was trying to get out. I clipped the wrap.

"Honey, I need you to step out. I want this one to be a surprise."

Grinning, he walked out. I told the man what I wanted, and made him swear not to tell.

Twenty minutes later I was out the door. He was standing in front of the clothing shop.

"Come on" he said, practically dragging me in.

It should have been called Sluts R Us. To say the stuff was risque would have been a conservative opinion. The salesclerk had short spiked hair, black with pink tips, a pierced nose, lip, belly button and other places, I was sure.

She was friendly though.

Ghost knew just what he wanted.

It was the female version of a wifebeater, the white ribbed material scooped out in the back and sides, a low front, with a wide strip of material for a back. The straps of my bra were visible, and the bra itself was plain to see under the shirt. You could just barely make out the tattoo on my breast. I had a large bandage over the one on the shoulder. It also exposed about an inch of belly.

We walked towards the sex shop, and I stiffened up.

"Relax, babe, We're not going in there."

Hr grinned that grin of his.

"We'll save that for another adventure."

We stopped back at the bike shop, where he bought me a black leather jacket.

"It'll be awfully cool tomorrow morning, if you ride in just that shirt."

I thought we were done until we pulled up at a beauty salon.

"You have an appointment. Be bold, babe."

The hairdresser and I talked for thirty minutes. She took my picture, scanned it into a computer, and showed me how I would look with different lengths and styles.

I really loved the one I picked, because of its' versatility. I could go from conservative to bold in a few minutes, with a little gel or mousse.

I cringed while my shoulder length hair disappeared, but rejoiced at my saucy, short locks. Nowhere more than three inches, it framed my face perfectly. I had her spike it just a little, before showing off to him.

He was speechless for a bit.

"Not what I expected." he said, "not at all. It's much better."

He was quiet on the way back to my apartment. It took us thirty minutes to get everything out of the car, and I left it piled in the bedroom, getting him a beer and snuggling into his lap.

"I still have on the thong from this afternoon" I whispered, smiling into his neck as I felt his excitement grow under my bottom.

I looked up, and pulled his head down, locked my lips onto his with the intent of never coming up for air. I flicked my tongue across his teeth, rewarded when his mouth opened a bit. I jammed my tongue into his mouth as far as it would go, surprised when he pushed it out, only to do the same to me. Reaching down, I took his hand and guided it to my breast and aching nipple. I felt his large hand tighten, completely covering it. I was wriggling frantically, reaching for his shirt, when he stopped me, standing suddenly.

"I'm sorry, Kelly, I didn't mean..."

I stopped him with a finger on his lips.

"I'm not. And I did mean to do what we were doing. I want to continue. Is that all right?"

He was pacing back and forth.

"I want to. I really do. You're the first woman since my wife I've been sexually attracted to, and she's been gone two years. But I think you're confusing gratitude with emotion. Plus I'm a lot older, I feel like I'm robbing the cradle. You don't want an old man like me, babe."

I couldn't stand it. I jumped up and slapped him, hard. He stood in stunned silence as I went into a rant.

"You think I give a fuck how old you are? You're the first real man I've ever met. I'm a goddamned grown woman, and I choose you. If you're playing with me, stop, now. If not, don't let that Southern sense of honor I love about you get in the way of your feelings."

I stopped, panting heavily.

"You've almost ruined the best day of my life. I want you to go home, think about what I said. And don't even think about missing tomorrow. I expect you, on your bike, at ten sharp. If you're not, I'll hunt you down and kick your ass."

I grabbed him, gave him a kiss I hope scorched the bottoms of his feet, and literally shoved him out the door. When I heard him drive off, I went into the bedroom, threw the bags in the floor, and collapsed, crying like a baby. And I wasn't really sure why.

.................................................

It was a beautiful day. The sun was shining, there was just a hint of breeze, and it wasn't too hot. I heard the bike roar up, and not giving him a chance to get off, came bouncing out the door. He handed me my goggles and a bandana to cover my hair. Soon we were off. We were a bit early, so we rode around for a bit. I snuggled up to him as tightly as I could, enjoying the feeling. I might have stroked his chest a time or two, purely by accident, of course. We hit a bump, and my hand slid down to his belt. I left it there until he gently pulled it back up to his chest. Spoilsport.

Everyone noticed when we pulled in. I got off, slipped my bandana and goggles off, running my fingers through my hair. I casually unzipped the jacket, shrugged it off, and lay it across the seat. People, mostly men, were staring.

Ghost just grinned until I turned around, showing him the other tattoo. A small ghost, gray and outlined in red, with two dots for eyes. Words actually failed him.

Cindy came bouncing across the parking lot, towing her new boyfriend along. We hugged, while she raved about my hair and new look. She saw the tattoos and her eyes got wide.

"How long have you had those?"

I shrugged.

"I've had the devil for a while now, but the ghost is recent."

While we were talking, Ghost slipped out of his jacket. I had my back turned to him, but when Cindy stopped talking I turned around to look.

He had on his trademark tight jeans, and a black wifebeater, which showed his muscles off to perfection. He had taken the braid out of his hair, and it shone almost silver in the sun. I swear I think she started to drool.




I Fell in Love with a Ghost



I locked down on his hand, dragging him along, making the rounds, introducing him to everyone I knew and a few I didn't, as my boyfriend.

The effort it took to achieve my look was paid off in spades when we came up on Heather, Janey, and to my surprise, Ron.

We chatted, while Cindy bragged on my look. Ron had grabbed Heather's hand possessively, like he was trying to prove something. Heather looked at Ghost like she wanted to throw him down right then.

It really got away from her when people around started paying me more attention than her. The icing on the cake came when the CEO came by. He almost did a double take when he saw me, and I had a thought maybe I had gone just a bit too far.

"Kelly, is that you? Wow! You looked great in that evening gown, but in that outfit you look like you should be on the pages of my Harley calender."

I was glowing, Heather and the rest had their mouths hanging open, and Ghost just grinned. 

His wife came up just then.

"Stop drooling, dear. It's not appropriate. However, I'll forgive you if you let Mr. Ghost escort me to our table."

She was smiling, stroking his bare arm and chest. I looked at her and we both burst out in giggles. I took Reg[he insisted I call him that, since it was away from the workplace] by the arm. His wife Stella grabbed Ghost, and we walked to the VIP table. I saw Ghost jump slightly while Stella giggled, winking at me. He told me later she was rubbing his butt.

I was ready to go back to our table, when Reg started talking about his Ultraglide. Stella just rolled her eyes.

"May as well sit, dear. It'll be an hour before he winds down."

So to the surprise of the whole company, we ended up staying at the table. Ghost invited them to go on a poker run the next Saturday, and they happily agreed.

She asked me if my tattoos hurt, and I whispered in her ear they weren't real, they were just paint. I was almost speechless when she asked who did them, she was thinking about surprising Reg with one for his birthday.

I looked at her, hoping I would look that good when I was in my midfifties. Instead of dyeing her hair, she had let it turn, until it was almost silver. She had a good body too, the result of four times a week gym work. She reminded me of a shorter, more attractive Emmylou Harris.

We agreed to sneak off sometime in the next two weeks. I wanted my ghost to be permanent, just like I hoped for the man.

I didn't have any older relatives or friends, and I felt so comfortable with Stella I poured out all my insecurities while our men were looking at his motorcycle. She patted my hand.

"I wouldn't worry, young lady. You don't see him looking at you when you're not watching. He's desperately in love. Reg is almost ten years older than me, and we've been together over thirty years."

We ate, we laughed. I won a trip to a day spa in the raffle. It was for two, and Stella surprised everyone when she told me to tell her when we went, she wanted to help cover Ghost in hot mud. He actually blushed while the women laughed.

We almost won the three legged race, but were 'accidentally' bumped by Ron and Heather in front of the finish line. Everyone saw it was deliberate. Didn't help them, though, I made sure I tangled them up during the fall.

"I saw Ghost's eyes tighten, but I held him close, kissing him hard in front of everyone before I let him up.

Heather really needs to look in the mirror and try to control some of her expressions. That, or quit gargling with pickle juice.

As they say, revenge is sweet, and during a stupid games for couples where we had to hold a raw egg between us as we walked from point A to point B, I had mine.

It was a struggle for us, between his hard chest and my small breasts. We were doing quite well, I thought we might win until Heather and Ron went by us. 

They didn't have to strain much, the egg was firmly nestled between her huge udders. They would have to pry it out in the end.

I 'accidentally' stumbled, pulling Ghost with me, into the back of Ron. It pushed him forwards, hard, and the next thing you know there was a gooey mess dribbling all over her designer bra and chic tee. Miracle of miracles, we managed to retain the egg and crossed the finish line first.

Heather was still screaming at Ron on the way to their car.

"You're a vindictive little vixen, aren't you?" he asked, grinning.

I shrugged.

"Not really. It seems I've started seeing Heather as she actually is, and honestly, I've outgrown her. She'll probably end up a trophy wife, cheating on him just because she can. I hope he has a good prenupt."

He squeezed my hand.

"You really have grown up, I see it in your gestures, your mannerisms, and your attitude. I like it."

I couldn't resist.

"You know what the best part of being mature is?"

"What babe?"

"It makes me closer in age to you."

Before he could speak, I kissed him hard, and ran off to tell Cindy goodbye. We all ended up going to the bar. Reg and Stella even made an appearance, where Stella won a sixty dollar pool on who could drink a mug of beer the fastest. I don't think she actually swallowed, just let it flow down her throat.

"That's awesome!" I said, while she wiped her mouth delicately with a napkin.

"Reggie thinks so" she laughed, while he glowed.

I'd like to say this magical day ended with us making mad, passionate love until we passed out from exhaustion, but I had too good of a time, and before I knew it, I was plastered.

Not falling down, puking drunk, but trashed enough there was no way I needed to be on the back of a bike. Cindy took me home while Ghost followed. He looked a little aggravated as he propped me up to unlock my door. As it opened I fell into him, tripping him to the floor, where I refused to let him up until he gave me ten good kisses.

"Damn it Kelly, we're in the doorway. People are walking by, watching us."

"Good" I said. "I want everyone to know you're my man. In fact, I think I'll mark my territory."

Before he could react, I bit his neck, hard, sucking like a vampire. I think I actually drew blood.

I rolled off, giggling, dropping on to the couch.

He got up, rubbing his neck.

"Damn, babe. That hurt."

"Don't care. Marking you, making sure everyone sees you belong to me. Never giving you up. Never leaving you." My voice was getting more slurred.

His eyes got misty. He was about to say something when my stomach started rolling. He just barely got me to the sink. I made a terrible mess in the bathroom, and all over me.

Ghost just sighed, wiped me down a bit, before sitting me on the counter. I leaned back against the mirror while he pulled off my boots. He stood up, unsnapping my jeans, and tugging my zipper. I wanted to help really bad, to hurry him along. I raised my arms like a child while he pulled my top off, throwing it and the bra into the sink. He then stood me, and tugged the jeans down, taking my thong with it. Soon I was bare as the day I was born. I hope he likes my closely trimmed pussy, I did it just for him.

He had turned the shower on, and while I sat, he stood and took his clothes off. Damn, what a body. I needed to ask him where he got those scars, and that very nice cock.

When he was naked he gently lifted me and carried me to the shower. He stood me as the warm water flowed, and I leaned into him, luxuriating in the feel of his skin where it touched mine. And the way I started wiggling, he touched a lot.

Gently, he washed my hair, my face, my neck. I stood on tiptoe, trying to get his hands to my breasts. After a slight hesitation, he massaged them gently. I could feel him rising to the occasion, and I reached around greedily.

He shifted sideways but I kept after him.

"Mine" I kept telling him, until I locked down on it, amazed, even as drunk as I was, how much stuck out past my little hand. He finally got me to stop yanking on him, telling me it was time to go to bed. That was the best idea I'd ever heard, so I didn't object as he scooped me up, dried me, and carried me to the bedroom.

He put me under the covers, caressing my cheek. I immediately got sleepy, but the part of me that wasn't drunk thought this was wrong.

"Want you, Ghost, want you bad. Please love me. Please."

He lay down beside me, snuggling while he stroked my hair and made little soothing noises. Soon I couldn't keep my eyes open. Just before I drifted off to sleep, I said it. What I had been wanting to say for weeks.

"Ghost?"

He was still stroking my neck.

"What, babe?"

"Love you."

His hands stopped stroking for a few seconds before he started again. When he thought I was out, he leaned in and whispered in my ear.

"Babe?" I was too out of it to respond, so I just lay there. I felt his breath on my ear, as he leaned in and whispered.

"Love you, too."

I smiled, and went to sleep as tears trickled down my cheek. A little while later I felt a sudden pain in my neck, then little shushing sounds as I tried to wake up.

.................................................

God, did I hurt. I lay there for a half hour, trying to get this tremendous weight that turned out to be my head off the pillow. Only the need to pee really bad drove me off the bed. Sunlight streamed in, hurting my eyes. 

I was naked. When then that happen? I peed, brushed my teeth, gargled, washed my face. There seemed to be something wrong with my neck. I must have stared at my reflection for three or four minutes before I figured out it was a massive hickey. That triggered a whole flood of memories and I slid down, sitting with my back to the wall. I was about to feel hugely embarrassed until I remembered the last words he had spoken.

I didn't care if I felt like shit, or had a hickey the size of Rhode Island on my neck. He loved me!

He had left a message while I was still out of it. He was gone again, be back by Wednesday. He hoped my head didn't hurt too bad, but hoped the hickey hurt like hell.

"Damn babe, you nearly bit my head off."

I grinned at that, but was disappointed I wouldn't see him for a few days. He had told me Friday, but I had forgotten. Actually, I intended to trap him in my bed, hide his clothes, and use him as a sex slave all day. Oh well, the best laid plans.....

..................................................

Heather was a cast iron bitch Monday to everyone, but especially me.

"I hope your gorilla of a boyfriend was proud of what he did to Ron. Our clothes were ruined."

"Actually Heather, I was the one that stumbled, just like you did in the three legged race. Guess we both need to be more careful on uneven ground."

Her eyes flared. I had just told her it was payback, and she didn't like it. I changed tack.

"Do you like my outfit? My best friend Cindy helped me pick it out, and of course my honey paid for it. You know on what we make I couldn't afford it."

She had on one of her oldest outfits, and I was dressed in a light blue A line skirt, matching jacket, and white silk blouse, seamed hose and four inch heels. The outfit probably cost half what I would usually spend on clothes in a year, and Heather knew it.

She colored slightly at the implied insult, turned in a huff, and stomped off, hard to do in heels. Before she left she snarled at me.

"Clothes don't make the woman. And I can look at your neck and see how you paid for them."

I grinned, which infuriated her farther.

"You're right. You should see the mark I left on him. Yeah, he spent a bunch on me, but I made it very, very worth it. I intend to keep doing it until the debt is paid, but the way he spends on me, I'll never get even. Oh well, the things we have to bear."

Janey had watched the whole exchange.

"Damn Kelly, where did the take no shit attitude come from? You know she's not going to leave it alone, right?"

I grinned at her.

"She'd best. She had no idea what I'm like now. I won't put up with much before I go straight to her ass. There won't be any girly slaps and hair pulling, I'll knock the shit out of her. She deserves it for all the mean things she's done to me and the rest of us, if you'd admit it."

She just grinned.

"I want the popcorn concession if it ever happens. I'll make a fortune."

We didn't sit together at lunch, for the first time in two years, even though there was an empty chair. When she sat at another table with Ron, I invited a new girl to sit with us, introducing her around and making her feel at ease. I remembered well what it felt like to be shy and intimidated.

Thanks to talk about the lecture, and the picnic, upper management noticed me a lot more. I was always good at my job, and now that I didn't mind speaking out, they actually listened. Out of the blue I was offered a chance to coordinate our part of a project to streamline procedures companywide, and I jumped at it. Heather had thought with all the boob and leg she had flashed lately to the managers, she would be a shoo in for the position. Seems they'd rather have a brain than eye candy, even though now that I had better clothes and a more professional hair style, I wasn't exactly hard on the eyes. It widened the rift even more between us.

Ghost came back on Wednesday. He was quieter, more reserved than usual. I was not letting him go back int his shell.

We met at the bar. I started to kiss him and he drew back.

"Kiss me!" I hissed, "Hard and long. Or I'll make you miserable all night. I won't leave you alone, won't let you run away. I wasn't quite as drunk as you thought, and heard what you said. Now prove it."

He looked at me, then suddenly dipped me deep, smothering me with kisses for about a minute. Most of the bar applauded, except Heather, Ron, and her new followers. I plopped down on his lap.

"Expecting Heather and the girls?"

"The girls maybe, Heather definitely not. We haven't been on the best of terms since the picnic. Not my fault, I offered to make peace but she shut me down."

He grinned, and waved at the table. Janey started to wave back, but Heather snarled. She looked at Heather for a minute, got up, and joined us.

"Mind if I spend a little time with you guys? The conversation isn't all that cheerful over there."

Ghost stood and held her chair for her. Cindy came in and walked by Heather on the way to us. She surprised us all by giving Ghost a huge kiss.

"That's from my boyfriend. Well, not all of it. He said to make sure and thank you, but I don't think he said kiss, exactly. That's from me."

"Thanks for what?" he asked, smiling.

"For the new, uh, foundation garments. I had to give him a little fashion show, and explain how I came to have all the stuff. He said to thank you, and feel free to include me in any future shopping trips you guys take."

I jumped in. 

"Oh, I think next time we'll leave him at home. Keep it a surprise. Got to keep the passion up, you know."

I glowed when he went along.

He had a death grip on my waist when he said "I really appreciate it babe, but it doesn't matter how you wrap it, it's still the best present I've ever had."

Cindy and Janey shrieked with laughter. Glancing up, I saw Heather watching us. If looks could kill, Sam would have had a hell of a mess to clean up.

Janey sat openmouthed.

"Damn it, Kelly, where can I get one of those?"

Ghost grinned a little wider and called Sam over.

"Sam, you're off duty the rest of the night. I'd like to introduce you to Jane. She likes to be called Janey. Janey, this is Sam. I'm sure you two will get along fine."

I knew Sam owned the bar, and that he was single, but other than that I knew nothing about him. He was not in my honey's league, but he was a nice looking man. He was thirty four, Janey was twenty seven.

They were tremendously awkward at first, but soon the talk turned to the poker run coming up Saturday. Sam had a bike and was going, but didn't have anyone to ride with. Janey pretty much volunteered, saying she loved motorcycles. I looked back and could not recall one instance where she had ever said anything about riding. 

Cindy wanted to know if only Harleys were allowed, and when they told her all bikes were welcome, she called her boyfriend. Seems he had been restoring an early seventies 750 Triumph, and it was almost complete, and road worthy. We agreed to meet early for breakfast.

I could tell Ghost was uncomfortable, so I let him off the hook.

"Don't worry. I have to work tomorrow and what I'm gonna do to you will take time. Lots and lots of time. Take your vitamins and get plenty of rest. Saturday is the day. Understand?"

He actually looked nervous. Cindy and I left. I looked back, and the Ghost was gone. Janey and Sam were in deep conversation, and she laughed, running her hand over his arm. He looked gobsmacked. Go get him, Janey.

.................................................

Stella surprised me by dropping by my desk Friday morning.

"Reg likes to visit the branches unexpectedly" she explained, "but I think there's a certain young lady he wanted to check up on. I hope you get good reports, he's scared he may lose you, so he intends to bend the rules just a bit. You know the company gives scholarships to children of employees, and he's thinking of branching out to include junior employees. I'm sure they'll be a employment clause, but it will probably be very liberal. Know anyone who would be willing to serve as our guinea pig?"

I was almost speechless. It was a golden opportunity. Then reality hit.

"I'd love to, but I would still need to support myself. I don't see how I could do both."

Stella patted my hand.

"Silly child, don't you think he's considered that? The scholarship would keep you at full pay, with insurance and benefits, as long as you keep a 2.5 grade average."

I was suddenly suspicious.

"Tell me, how much input did Mrs. CEO have in this?"

She looked down, admiring her sculpted nails, before answering.

"I might have mentioned a few things in passing. I reminded him of the impression you made at the reception, and the invitations you got. Said it would be a shame if a bright young thing like you got her degree and then went to work for a competitor. Just in passing, mind you. I have no control over my husbands' business decisions."

"Stop it!" I said, trying to keep my voice controlled. "If you looked anymore smug you'd be choking. Thank you."

"You're welcome, honey. I don't think I told you, but Reg and I couldn't have kids. It makes us feel good to help bright young people better themselves. Now, be a dear, and try to act surprised when your manager calls you into his office for a chat. Promise?"

"Cross my heart. And I don't know if I told you, but I lost my mother when I was very young. It's nice to have a role model I can look up to."

I think I saw a tear in her eye, and she quickly changed the subject.

"Do you get off at five?"

"Yes, most days."

"Well, today is the day. I'll be waiting for you outside. I want you to introduce me to the artist that did your work. I've been thinking about it, and I want to try the temporary thing first. His birthday is Sunday, and I want to surprise him tonight. We may stop somewhere else, like the lingerie shop in the mall. Have you ever been in it?"

I grinned. "Oh, I've walked past it once or twice. Do you mind if we take a friend? She's interested in some body art too."

"I've got a Hummer. The big one. I really need to get something newer, but I like it so much I can't make myself go car shopping. Bring a small army, if you like. It will hold them. I have to go now. See you at five. And remember, act surprised."

I called Cindy and she was on board, promising to be in the parking lot at five. Janey waffled a bit before she decided to come too.

"Not to get anything, mind you. Just to watch."

Sure enough, I got the call at four. The managers' office, now.




I Fell in Love with a Ghost



I really tried to act surprised, and I was, a little, at how liberal the terms were. My sole responsibility was graduating, and I had to agree to work for them for three years after graduation. I couldn't wait to tell Ghost.

Cindy and Stella were chatting when we came out, and my legend grew when we hopped in the Hummer in front of most of our coworkers. I didn't see Heather, but Ron was standing with an odd look in his eyes.

I called Ghost and told him I was having a ladies' night out, but I would be home early.

"You should come by. If you spend the night, look how much easier it'll be to get started. That is, if you've got enough energy to crawl out of the bed."

I called him a coward when he demurred, told him I loved him again, and hung up before he could respond.

...............................................

We had a ball. The tattooist had agreed to close the shop when I called him for a private session, especially when I told him the older lady was loaded and had a lot of friends.

We all looked at the designs. Cindy saw one she wanted and went first. A small rose on her right breast.

Janey found a bunch she liked, but settled on her own design. She wouldn't tell how she came up with it or what it met. It was an armband, with the candy portions from the cereal Lucky Charms. You know, orange moons, yellow suns, green shamrocks, etc. Underneath she had him write "I'm magically delicious." She refused to discuss it.

That left Stella. She asked Janey and Cindy to wait in the Hummer, telling them it could be a while. She wanted me to stay.

She had picked out a tramp stamp. An intricate design of vines, flowers, and birds. with REGGIE'S in the middle. Then came the shocker. She pulled out a picture and handed it to him. JoJo[the only name I ever knew him by]grinned.

"Where?"

She stood, looking nervous. Steeling herself, she slipped out of the simple skirt she had been wearing, revealing lace boyshorts.

"Stella, he has wraps you can use to cover up."

She grinned.

"Not to do what I want."

Before I knew it she dropped her panties and stood, naked from the waist down. She was completely smooth, no hair at all. Laying down on the table, she spread her legs, pointed at her pussy, and said "Right here".

I looked at the picture. Winnie The Pooh, with his arm buried to the shoulder in a honey jar.

It took him thirty five minutes. I held her hand the whole time. When he was done, Winne ran across her stomach, and it looked like his arm was buried inside her.

"Reggies' honeypot" was captioned over it. 

Giving it a few minutes to dry, she sat up, slipped her skirt on, and shoved the panties in her purse.

"That was the first man in thirty two years beside my husband to touch my pussy. He was professional, but I'm so horny now I wish I had my vibrator. The big one."

Ever done this? Open your mouth and talk before your brain kicks in? I did it then.

"There's a sex shop two doors down."

"Oooh, let's go look."

We stopped by the Hummer. There was a liquor store right around the corner, and the girls had bought two pints of cinnamon schnapps to keep them occupied while waiting. One was almost gone.

Stella grabbed the second bottle, twisted the top off and threw it out the window. I knew then it was going to be a wild night. She chugged almost a third and offered it to me. I declined, it looked like one of needed to be sober enough to drive.

Cindy and I had never been in a sex shop. Janey had once, while she was far away on vacation. Stella wouldn't say.

We walked through the door. There were two women working. One came over and greeted us.

"A night out, girls? Having fun? looking for anything specific, or just browsing? We've got a few specials running, I'll point them out."

I looked down in shock. She obviously had a strapon under her short skirt, and it was sticking straight out. I looked at the other woman, she was tugging at her clothes and her face was red. Stella didn't miss a beat.

"Oh, just browsing. Tell me, is that a strapon under that skirt, or are you just one of those 'special' girls, glad to see us?"

That did it. We all howled, even the clerks. Soon the other clerk was with us, explaining the pros and cons of different vibrators and dildos, their favorites, the most popular sellers. We could have been discussing shoes. She even lifted her skirt so we could see her strapon.

Cindy was the most conservative next to me, and she seemed shocked at the openness of it all. She got over it, especially after Janey chased her round a few displays with a really large vibrator. Schnapps kicking in, I guess.

I won't bore you with details of our purchases, but we all egged each other on, to try something new. I will say Stella bought something I'd never seen. It kind of looked like an octopus with legs of different lengths.

Keeping with the theme of my mouth outrunning my brain, I told the girls the shop next door was where I purchased the top I had worn at the picnic. Of course, we had to go in. They all made purchases. We had the same salesgirl, and she recognized me. By the time we were done we were on a first name basis, and I had her card. Candy Cain. Really? I bought a really skimpy pair of Daisy Dukes, that hugged my little 34 inch bottom like a second skin. My tiny waist, 23 inches, enhanced the look.

When I finally got them out of the shop, I decided since we hit all the others, we may as well hit the bike dealership. I had something specific in mind, something that I had seen when he got me my jacket.

Stella bought matching tees for herself and Reggie. We thought it was a great idea, and did the same. Janey said it would make a great getting to know you gift for Sam. When the salesman found out we were going to wear them at the poker run, he gave us a nice discount because we were advertising for him. He also gave us a bunch of 10% off coupons to give away.

I looked at what I wanted long and hard, finally trying them on.

"Girl, wear that and those new shorts, and every man there will have trouble riding from the boners they'll have." Stella laughed when she said it, but that was my plan all along. I wanted Ghost to know I was hot, but I also wanted him to know that no one but him would get to take them off, ever again if I got my way.

Shiny black leather chaps. I adjusted them so they fit me like a glove. I couldn't wait to show them to him.

Stella bought a pair with a gleam in her eye.

................................................ 

They all wanted to stop at a club that featured male strippers, but I talked them out of it.

"We all have to be up at seven tomorrow and be straight enough to sit on the backs of bikes. I want to have fun tomorrow, not feel like crap every time we hit a bump."

They all called me a partypooper. Stella just grinned.

"Pact, girls. The first one of you who gets engaged gets to have her batchelorette party here, on me. Deal?" 

We all agreed, and I got them all home fairly early.

...............................................

I'll never forget the look I got the next morning when I strutted out the door wearing the chaps and tiny shorts, I twirled around, bending over slightly for effect.

"You like? And before you say anything, it's all yours, and only yours. Do you understand? Also, I'll never wear this in public again, just for you, in private. I plan to wear it tonight, when we do cowgirl. Think you'll like that?"

He nodded, mouth hanging open. He actually ran his hand over my bottom, and I pressed back into it. He finally found his voice.

"Damn girl. I'm going to have to watch you like a hawk. Fights will break out at every place we stop as guys try to get to you."

"They can look all they want, but I'm private property, and I'll make it clear to them if I have to. I'll tell them I'm your bitch and you don't share, all right?"

"Exactly right" he said, surprising me by picking me up until I was eye to eye with him.

"Mine. Understand? If we finish this day like I think we are, you'll be mine, forever. I don't love lightly. So if you're unsure, now's the time to back out. And if you want to go ahead, promise me now if there ever comes a time you change your mind, you will look me in the eye and tell me. I can't abide women who play games or lie, so be warned."

He was dead serious, and it was almost cold the way he said it. But I keyed in on the forever part, and almost dragged him back into the apartment.

I answered just as seriously.

"No worries, my love. I'll always look you in the eye, always be true. And I'll always, ALWAYS, be right beside you, up until the time one of us passes. I promise."

I swear he had tears in his eyes.

"Tonight is about us, but tomorrow, I want to set aside some time to talk. I need you to know my history, know how I think, what I value. I don't want you to be surprised down the road. All right?"

I kissed him, long, passionately, with all the love I had. 

"All right. Now, can we please leave. The sooner the day ends, the sooner the night begins."

I wrapped my arms round him as we rode. My hand slipped down to his belt, and when he tried to push it up, I opened a palm to him and he glanced down.

"MINE", written in bold letters. I slipped it down again and he made no more offer to move it.

We met at a diner as planned. Apparently we weren't the only ones, there must have been twenty five bikes there. Conversation came to a standstill when we entered. Then our group went into wolf whistles and catcalls. We had a new member. JoJo was there, with a woman that had almost every inch of visible skin tattooed.

"Damn, man, you must have nerves of steel. One look at my woman in something like that, and we would never have left the house." said Sam, grinning.

Stella was grinning like mad. Reggie looked tired. I knew she had sprang her birthday surprise on him last night, so I needled him a bit.

"You look tired, Reggie. Not get enough sleep last night?"

He went red, Stella laughed and mouthed "later".

Cindy and John rolled in, and the guys went out to admire his bike. After breakfast, we all met at the rally point.

Poker runs are usually charity events, sponsored by clubs or dealerships. You ride from point to point, drawing a card at each stop. The card is recorded, and totaled at the last stop. The winning hand gets a small prize, and there's usually a party afterwards.

We rode in our own little subgroup, with us on point. At the second stop, we gathered off to the side and banished the men for a few minutes.

"Okay, Stel, spill. What did you do to poor Reggie last night?"

"Gave him the best loving of our lives. You guys didn't see all the things I bought, and Babe[my new nickname]is the only one that saw the tattoo. I went home, lit candles, set the bedroom up. I put the chaps on, and a leather bra that was mostly straps. I knelt in a submissive position, put on a collar, and tied the leash to the bed. I was facing away from the door, and had an envelope taped to my back, his birthday card."

She paused, savoring the memory.

" He came home. I heard him calling me, but remained quiet. After what seemed to be forever he finally opened the bedroom door. He spoke, but I remained silent as he approached. I felt him pull the card off my back. It said:"

"One submissive biker slut, tonight only, to be used anyway you want, as often as you want. Happy birthday, my husband."

Underneath there was a little postscript.

"Take the pill. If there is a spot you miss using I'm going to be very disappointed."

We were all sitting openmouthed, turned on, and Cindy was actually squirming.

"Did he do a good job?"

Stella got a dreamy look in her eye.

"Did he ever. Most of the night, from one position and opening to another. I thought the night was over, when he tied me to the bed and used my new toy on me. One finger three inches up my bottom, the main trunk five inches up my honey pot, and a little two inch finger stroking my clit, all of them on high. He actually walked out and left me, took a shower, and came back twenty minutes later. I was on overload by then. He unstrapped my legs, removed my toy, and surprised me with one more good pounding. Thirty two years, girls, and it just keeps getting better."

We were all quiet when we rejoined our men, all with wet panties, I'm sure.

..............................................

The next to last stop was a restaurant that served us a buffet meal. I had been getting looks all day, but one look at Ghost and most stayed clear. And I stuck to him like wallpaper when I wasn't with the girls.

We solved the mystery of Janey's tattoo over lunch. Seems they were telling each other their likes and dislikes, and Sam admitted that Lucky charms was his favorite cereal. He got the hint.

Cindy told why she chose hers. Seemed Johnny's dad owned a flower farm, specializing in roses.

The last stop was a large bar, where the post ride party was to be held. By then it was early afternoon. It was a huge place, and there were people there not associated with the run. Five guys were in the back shooting pool, a small club that fancied themselves outlaws. You've seen them before in different places, guys desperately pretending to be different, more than they actually are. They were pissed that management wouldn't let them fly their colors. You had to go by the pool room to get to the bathrooms, and one of them noticed me.

"Damn what a hot piece of ass. Who you with babe? Interested in an upgrade?"

I got pissed.

"I doubt that I could ever get better than what I have, but if you see any real men come in here, would you point them out to me?" Stella laughed out loud while the rest of the girls giggled.

"What are you laughing at, grandma?" he demanded, trying to cover his embarrassment.

"Why you, of course. Was that the best line you have? If it is, I bet you spend a lot of time jerking off, huh?" She looked the others.

"Then again, you have each other. I can see it now. A bottle of liquor, a bonfire, and a couple tubes of lotion. Quite the romantic scene, wouldn't you say?"

There were a lot of women around waiting for the restrooms, and most of them heard the exchange. Laughter rolled around the area, and they all got red.

"Back off, Gino" yelled one girl, "I've seen her old man. He don't look like he'd be all that friendly to anyone messing with his woman."

Gino sneered.

"These guys don't scare me. Weekend warriors, wearing suits all week and trying to be bad on the weekends. Bunch of pussies. Most would be thrilled if their bitch got fucked by a real man."

I should have left it alone, but I was pissed.

"That sounds like the voice of experience talking. Your old lady leave you for a real biker? The thrill of riding on the back of your Honda 350 not enough for her? And don't worry, I wouldn't need my man to straighten your sissy little ass out. While you'd be trying to pull my hair out I'd be kicking the shit out of you. But let's not fight. We could be friends, compare thongs, talk about the latest in feminine hygiene products, the cutest pair of high heels you own. Oops, the bathroom just opened up. Gotta go. See you, bitch."

All right, the beer made me brave. He was actually a pretty big guy, and he was passed redfaced, more a medium purple over the diss I had handed him. Women was screaming with laughter, as I went into the restroom. Janey was right behind me.

"Damn girl, what got into you?"

"I guess he was just the straw that broke my back. You're a big girl, Janey. Five eight, nine maybe?" she nodded her head.

"Well take me out of my high heels, and I'm five three. One hundred five, if I've had a full meal. I've always been the little girl, and I'm tired of it. I've decide since I can't grow any taller, I'd just grow a set of balls instead."

"Think he'll leave you alone now?"

"Yeah, these types of guys are all talk."

Cindy had heard them talking while waiting for the bathroom, and didn't think so. She went to get the guys.

They were standing there when we came out. For the first time I felt a little fear.

"Think you can talk shit like that and get away with it? We're gonna take you outside, teach you a little manners, make you a good little slut. If you're good enough, we'll take you with us."

I could see the guys coming. Ghost did not look happy. I smiled at them.

"You just seriously fucked up. My man is on his way, with our friends. You'll be drinking tea with your pinkies stuck out when they're done with you."

"Think I'm scared? What is he in real life, an accountant?"

I smiled my sweetest smile, not even fighting when one of them grabbed me from behind.

"No, he's a ghost. Hi, honey. Meet my new girlfriends."

The leader turned, took a look at Ghost and backed up, before he realized the whole bar was watching. He decided to bluff it out.

"There's five of us. Five of you, and one looks like a grandpa. Back off."

Ghost just smiled. Then he moved faster than I thought humanly possible, kicking the closest one in the gut, burying his riding boot in deep. He dropped like a rock, gasping.

"Now there's four. Not a fair fight now, huh?"

The guy holding me relaxed his grip, watching, not perceiving me as a threat. I raised my leg and drove my stiletto heel into his instep. He howled and let go of me, bending over. I whirled around, grabbed his head, drove my knee into his face. He fell, and I kicked him in the balls. He was out of it for awhile.

Ghost grinned when I apologized.

"Sorry honey, I just had to have one. Will you share another?" 

"No, Babe. You know how greedy I can be."

The leader, realizing he was in a no win situation, raised his hands.

"Hold on, dude. We'll apologize, and leave. All right?"

He hadn't stop grinning.

"All right. What's your club called?"

"The Reapers" he said, with a touch of pride.

"Okay. Here's what I want you to do. Get up on the bandstand, take a mike, and repeat after me:

Hi. We're The Reapers, a bunch of sissy bitches who like to take their dresses off on the weekend and pretend to be men. If you want, we could meet any man who's interested out back, and become real good friends. Anybody interested?"

The crowd roared while they flamed red.

"No fucking way, asshole!"

Ghost actually laughed.

"All right then. We'll make it fair. There's still three of you. I'll fight you, alone. No need for my friends to get dirty. But I'm warning you, fight like you mean it, or I'll drop the panties of everyone of you, and spank your little asses on the bandstand. If you put me down, you walk, free and clear. If I win, well, if I win, you'll know."

The owner showed up, grinning.

"Take it outside. I hate having to replace shit."

He looked at the three still standing.

"I'll have someone help get your sisters outside. When it's over, leave. You're barred. Permanently. If I let you hang around I'd be mopping up your blood on a regular basis. Learn a lesson here. You don't have what it takes to run with the big dogs. Best lay on the porch and growl. OUT, NOW!"

You'd have thought they were going to an execution. The whole bar emptied out. The owner had them cross the street to a mostly empty parking lot, off his property.

The leader got a little swagger back.

"Back off now, or after we kick your ass I'll fuck the little bitch right in front of you."

Ghost just grinned.

"Somebody say go."

Before he had it out good Reggie yelled "GO!"

It was ugly. He put one down right off the bat, but the other two managed to tackle him down. I couldn't see exactly what happened while they rolled around, but one fell away, holding his crotch. Ghost bounded up, kicking him again before turning to the last.

The guy came up in a crouch and launched himself. He got a face full of knee for his trouble. His nose just sort of spread out over his face. He went back down. The first man was smart enough to stay down. Ghost was breathing a little hard, and had a scratch on his face. He snatched the leader up.




I Fell in Love with a Ghost



"If I ever see you or one of your crew again, anywhere near my woman, you won't get back up. Understand?"

He was nodding his head like a bobble doll when he let go.

Ghost looked at me and grinned.

"I'm thirsty. Let's set the bar up, Babe, what do you say?"

"Line up, bitches! And bring your women along too."

All everyone could do was laugh on the way back in.

They tried to get us drunk. After the second beer, I jumped up on the bar.

"No more beer for us tonight. I got plans for him, and I'll kick the shit out of anybody that messes with that."

The crowd roared, and the girls grabbed me and delivered me to him, on their shoulders.

They all piled out when we left.

"Don't do anything I wouldn't do!"

I looked at the girl who yelled, grinning.

"I cant promise that. I don't know what you won't do."

Ghost squealed tires out of the lot, to peals of laughter.

.................................................

It seemed like forever before we got back to my apartment. He killed the engine, and sat, looking at me.

"Are you sure?"

"If you don't get off that damn bike right now, I'm going to start without you."

I yanked off my top, throwing it in his face. I had my bra unhooked by the time I was at the door. He practically threw me into the living room.

"Nobody gets to see you except me, ever again. Understand?"

I giggled.

"Yes dear. Now, help me."

He knelt down, unbuckling my chaps, kissing each bit of flesh exposed as he went. When he ran his tongue all the way to the bottom of my shorts, I almost lost it. I wiggled out of my shorts. They were so tight it took the thong with it, damn it. It was the one I had shown him in the shop.

"You're overdressed for this" I said, tugging at his shirt. It came off, and I marveled again at his muscles. He had picked me up by then, heading towards the bedroom.

He tossed me on the bed, and before I could move, he had my legs spread, nibbling my thighs. I tried to protest, to move, but his strong arms held me down, and when his tongue hit my little honeypot I stopped, and starting moving around, moaning. I screamed after five minutes, gushing into his mouth, the very first time I had ever squirted. I thought he was done, but he kept up his assault, and then minutes later I gushed again. I had both hands full of his hair, tugging him up.

"In me. Now!"

I had to wait until he got out of his jeans. I helped tugged them down, and surprised him by putting as much of him as I could in my mouth. I actually gagged, trying to go deeper. I kept at him for a few minutes before falling back, gasping.

"I'll finish that later. I need you honey. Bad."

As worked up as he was, I expected him to slam into me. I had had only three men in my whole life, and he was easily at least an inch and a half longer, and thick. I was afraid I couldn't handle it. Surprising me, he eased in gently, pausing a few times to get me used to him.

By the time he was fully inside me, I was almost delirious. I hunched forward, wrapped my legs around him, and screamed out:

"My God! You've stuffed me. Now do it. Fuck me. Claim your woman! I love you!"

The last came out as a shriek as he started moving. It probably wasn't fifteen minutes, but it felt like a lifetime. I didn't know it was possible to come that much. When he finally collapsed, gasping, I was almost unconscious. He flipped us over until I was laying on top of him, still impaled.

"Love you, Babe."

That's all it took. I started crying. He just held me, stroking my body and kissing my hair until he softened and slipped out.

I raised up and started kissing him, determined to cover every square inch of his body. I got to his waist when he scooped me up, carrying me to the shower. We touched, becoming intimately familiar with every square inch of each other. In no time he had me up, my legs wrapped around him, filled by his lovely cock. He took me, while the warm water flowed until it became cold. I think I passed out, because I woke up in the bed later, his large arms wrapped around me as I spooned into him. I just snuggled tighter and drifted back off.

.................................................

I woke up early, as was my habit, watching his chest rise and fall in sleep. I gently eased out of his grasp, thrilled when he frowned in his sleep, feeling around for me. I showered, fixed my hair, did my makeup, and got dressed.

Well, maybe dressed isn't exactly the right term. I put my chaps back on, and my pink corset. It had removable cups, and I felt like they'd be in the way, so I left them off. I looked at myself, wishing briefly I had a cowgirl hat, before going back int the bedroom.

I kissed him gently awake, twirling around when he was fully cognizant.

"Like my outfit? I'm a cowgirl, looking for a stud to ride. Know where I can find one?"

He nearly tore the sheet getting out from under the covers. I jumped him, playing with his hardness a little before easing down on him.

I rode him to three orgasms before he threw me off, rolling me over and mounting me from behind. I was screaming at the end, I couldn't help myself. We were both exhausted, and tried to take a shower together. That lasted until our hands started roaming, and we ended up back in bed again. We gave up, and just stayed in bed until hunger drove us out that afternoon.

................................................

After we showered again, separately, we ordered a pizza.

While we waited, he talked.

"I need to tell you some things. About my past. But first, any questions?"

I rubbed the scars on his chest.

"Where did these come from?"

"Two years in the sandbox."

"Which one?"

"Both."

I sighed, sorry he had experienced the pain.

"Tell me about your exwife."

He was really still for a minute. I began to think he wasn't going to talk. Then he got his wallet and handed me a picture. I was instantly jealous. She was everything I wasn't. Tall. Blond. Beautiful. Built.

"That's Jennifer. And she isn't an ex. She's a past."

There was pain on his face. I wanted to comfort him so badly I ached, but intuition held me back.

"We were married for seven years. She was everything I wanted and way more than I expected. I wasn't anywhere near her league but she loved me anyway."

He went silent, and I had to ask.

"What happened?"

"Cervical cancer. It hit the first year we were together. They did surgery, and she cried for three days when she realized we could never have kids. She begged me to leave her. She was my life. I convinced her we would be all right. We would adopt, there were lots of children out there that deserved a good family."

He was pacing. I could see the tears leaking down his cheeks.

"She agreed, but wanted to wait, afraid the cancer would come back. Finally, after five years, she felt safe. We signed up with every agency we could find."

"She decided to have a physical, the agencies were a little leery of her history. She'd religiously kept a schedule of three month exams, so we weren't worried."

He stopped. I've never seen anyone look so lost and alone.

"It was back, rampant, and had spread throughout her body. The prognosis was grim. Maybe six months without treatment, a year with. She made the decision on the spot she'd rather have six months with me functioning, than a year as a bald, pain riddled husk."

"It was hard. She lasted four and a half months, so we had time to say goodbye. Didn't make the pain any less, or any easier when she passed. I mourned, for almost two years. Then I met you. I think the fact that you're nothing like her physically helped. But I have to tell you, emotionally you could be a clone. You're sweet, loving, the best person I've met since her. You, babe, gave me a reason to want to live again."

By now I was crying uncontrollably, and we sat on the couch and shared tears until the pizza came.

.................................................

The next two months went by in a blur of happiness, except for one thing. He still wouldn't tell me his name.

I threw a little temper tantrum after about three weeks.

"Goddamnit! You know everything about me. I don't know what you do for a living except that it apparently pays well. I don't know how old you are, where you're from, I don't even know your real name."

He did it deliberately, I think he enjoyed tormenting me, a little. What was worse, I knew that Sam, JoJo, and the Harley dealership knew his name and wouldn't tell me. Then he did the one thing that would calm me down.

"I tell you what. I make a deal with you. Stop pushing it, and you'll know, real soon."

"When?" I snapped, still pissed.

"When we fill out the application for the marriage license."

I stopped ranting, turned, went into the bedroom and locked the door. I sat on my bed, so shocked I couldn't even cry. Then the reality hit.

He wanted me to marry him! 

I had a sudden vision. Me. Him. Sitting on a deck somewhere, my hair as silver as his, surrounded by small children. Grandchildren. Hugging, laughing, while young adults wheeled out a cake that had a 30 on the top.

Then the tears started.

..................................................

He still left me for days at a time, saying all would be explained shortly. I didn't like it, but then I'd look at the rock on my finger and it just didn't matter. 

I asked him what kind of wedding he wanted.

"One that ends with us saying 'I do' at the end of it. Nothing else matters to me. Make it as grand or small as you want. And never, ever worry about the cost. We can afford it."

I told Cindy first thing, then Janey, and Stella. they were all thrilled. Stella reminded me of our pact, and tell her the time so she could make it happen. Cindy was to be maid of honor, Janey was a bridesmaid, and Stella cried when I asked if she and Rodney would act as parents of the bride, including Reggie giving me away. Stella cried openly and Reggie seemed overcome.

My real father, who I saw about every two years, was in the first month of a six month assignment with the Merchant Marine, so he wouldn't be able to make it. He called, and wished me well, actually promising to come see us when his duties were over.

Heather took one look at the ring, burst into tears, and ran out of the bar.

Sam killed the power to the jukebox and made the announcement. At the end of the evening he had to call almost every cab in the city to carry everyone home.

................................................

We had set the date. Six weeks away. I was in turn deliriously happy and agonizingly frightened. I would have probably fallen apart if it weren't for Stella. She kept me centered. It came down to me not believing my good fortune.

Me, small and plain[at least in my eyes], marrying a genuine Prince Charming. I kept waiting for disaster to strike. And when it did, it was all my fault.

He had been gone almost two weeks, saying this was the last trip he'd have to take, and all would be revealed. We talked daily, usually more than once. I bet he said 'I love you' at least a dozen times in every conversation, trying to keep me calm.

It all fell apart two days before he was supposed to be home.

I was getting a little stir crazy, but didn't want to go to our usual place. The congratulations were getting a little old. I needed to decompress, refocus, still my nerves. I picked a place I hardly ever went to, for a quick drink.

I walked in, sat at the bar and sipped my drink, watching the crowd, enjoying the mating rituals I would never have to go through again, when the crowd parted and I saw them.

Heather, my old friend, holding hands with a man across the table. She leaned in and kissed him. He got up, held her chair for her, and they walked out, hugged together. Heather, with the man I thought was mine. He wasn't even trying to hide it, smiling as he walked out.

I went a little crazy, trying to get to them, but the crowd was too thick, and by the time I got outside they were gone. I heard a familiar rumble fade into the distance.

I didn't know what to do, so I went home. My phone must have rung a dozen times that night. I let them all go to voicemail, lying there, crying.

I finally passed out. Waking up late, I decided to blow off work that day, not even calling in. Cindy called a few times. I finally answered one about four that afternoon.

"Where the hell have you been? Your boss is really pissed, you were supposed to do a presentation an hour ago. Your soon to be husband called me. He sounded kind of frantic. Seems he can't get hold of you either. What's wrong with you?"

"Nothing. Everything. I'll call in, say I was too sick to even talk this morning, and I'll be out tomorrow too. And tell that bastard the wedding is off, and to stick Heather up his ass!"

I disconnected, and didn't answer it again. Fuck him! Fuck them all. I'm done. He wanted a confident, assertive woman, I'd show him one. See how he likes it.

..................................................

He called about a hundred times over the next three days and I never answered, just deleting them after he left a message. Then he just stopped calling.

I was in a daze. I refused to talk to my friends or let them visit. I went to a motel a town over, just for some peace and quiet. The only one I talked to was Stella, and that was just once.

"What the hell is wrong? He's called me and every other friend he knows trying to find out what's going on with you. The poor man is frantic. You need to talk to him. Whatever happened can't be that bad, and even if it is, you owe it to him to tell him."

"I don't owe him shit!" I spat, not even realizing how angry I was.

"He fucked up, not me. I saw what I saw. There's no need for an explanation. If you hear from him again, tell I said go to hell and leave me alone."

There was a bit of silence before she spoke.

"I'll do no such thing. If you want him to know that, tell him yourself. You kept telling me how much he had helped you mature into a better person, yet this is how you act. Are your actions those of a mature, thinking woman, or a badly hurt girl? I'm here for you, honey, if you need me. But I'm telling you now as someone who loves you, you're making a huge mistake. But you're the one who has to live with it, so do as you see fit. I won't bother you anymore."

She almost hung up before saying one last thing.

"I won't bother you again, but if you need me, day or night, call. I'll be here for you."

She hung up.

I felt like a child who had been reprimanded by her mother for having a temper tantrum, and maybe I was. But the anger and pain kicked back in. Fuck her. Fuck them all.

I brooded. I cried. Then I started planning. Let's see how he likes it when the shoe is on the other foot.

It took me a bit, but I finally connected with Ron. He was a little wary, but I convinced him I was now a free agent, and would like to see if the spark was still there, maybe show him a new trick or two I had learned. When I said that, I could practically hear him salivating. We agreed to meet at Sams', the next night.

I went back to see Candy, telling her I wanted the sluttiest outfit I could wear in public.

"A treat for your old man?" she said, laughing.

"Does he have any brothers? If he doesn't, let me know if you two split. I wouldn't mind test driving that ride a few times."

She was teasing, of course, but it didn't make me feel any better. I knew Ghost could hook up every night if he wanted.

I met Ron at the entrance to the club. He looked nervous.

"You sure you two are over?"

"Absolutely" I assured him, "no worries."

"WHAT THE HELL!?"

I looked around to see Janey and Cindy standing there.

"Are you crazy? Ghost has been in there every night until closing hoping you would come by, and you show up like this, and with him? Have you lost your fucking mind?"

My eyes were blazing. "You don't know the whole story. He's the cheating asshole, not me. I'm gonna tell him so, as soon as I see him."

They had gone quiet, looking past me. I turned, and my heart broke.

He was standing there, I could see the pain in his eyes, and suddenly felt very small.

"Ghost, I...."

That was all I got out before he was in front of me.

"This" he said, looking me up and down, "This is what my heart has been breaking over? I never knew you at all, did I? Did you have fun, fucking around with me, tricking me into loving you?"

"I..." was all I got out again before he grabbed my roughly. Ron started to say something and he looked over at him.

"If you got any brains at all, leave. I'm about five seconds away from ending your shitty little life. Run. NOW!"

No fool, he took off. Ghost turned back to me.

"I get the message. We're through. I only want one more thing, and you'll never see me again."

I felt him reaching for my left hand. As angry as I was, I never took his ring off. I tried to ball my fist, but his strong fingers pushed and pulled until he got it off. He dropped it on the sidewalk in front of me, grinding it to a mangled mess with his boot.

He shoved me roughly into Cindy and Janey's arms.

"Hold her until I leave. If she tries to follow me I won't be held responsible."

It didn't keep me from struggling, screaming for him, as he strode off. I collapsed, actually fainting.

I came to, lying on the sidewalk, to hear Janey and Sam arguing.

"No, she's not coming in. She's barred, I never want her in my place again, understand? Never."

Janey had her hand on his chest, pleading.

"Please, honey. Let us get her together and take her home. It'll be the last time, I promise."

He grumbled for a minute.

"All right. Just for a few minutes, you understand?"

He strode off, anger apparent in the stiffness of his back.

They got me off the ground, and half carried me in, getting us a table in the back. Not his, I noted.

"All right, honey, spill. What happened to you?"

In between sobs, I got my story out. Cindy looked at me strangely, before leaving. She came back immediately with HER. The bitch. Heather.

"What the fuck is she doing here?" I screamed, trying to break their grip. She sat, looking me up and down for a minute before talking.

"I never expected to be in the presence of the stupidest woman on the planet, but here I am. Wanna know why? Because of your new ex. Let me tell you a little story."

"Once upon a time there was a girl who had it all. Any man she wanted, just with a snap of her fingers. Good friends who followed her lead without question. But she wasn't happy. She could get the guys, but they were after the package, not the person."

"Then one day one of her friends, the quiet little one, did something amazing. She got the man we'd all wondered about, the one she had fixated on. She was jealous, a new emotion for me. She was mean to her friend, threw herself at him when she wasn't around. But he had eyes just for her."

"She ended up losing her and the rest of her friends because of it, found myself lost and alone. She didn't even go to the same places anymore. She made new friends, but it wasn't the same. She heard they were getting married, and was actually glad for her."

"Then one day, the man calls her out of the blue, tells her he wants to talk. She jumped at the chance, hoping against hope that he had dumped the other woman, and might be interested in her."

"But no, he was so in love with her it was sickening. He wanted to talk to her about mending fences, seemed the little girl actually missed her friend. He wanted us to make up, be in their wedding. He talked about life, love, told her what she needed to hear, holding her hands to keep her focused. She was so happy when he was done she kissed him. Out of gratitude, nothing more. She was so emotionally worn he walked her out of the club and into a cab to make sure she was all right."




I Fell in Love with a Ghost



"She was so happy going home. She had a chance to get her friends back, maybe find someone. Janey did, Cindy did, maybe she could hope too."

She paused, tears in her eyes. Then she grabbed my head roughly, until we were eye to eye.

"And that, you stupid little girl, is what you saw that night. A man that loved you so much he went an extra mile to get us back together. Just to make you happier. You have no idea how much I hate you right now, for breaking his heart, for not at least having the decency to talk to him. That being said, anything, and I mean anything, that I can do to help you, I'll do."

She didn't say another word, just strode out the door. The enormity of what I had done finally hit me, and I passed out again.

................................................

I was in the hospital for three days, being treated for stress. Stella, Janey, Cindy rotated staying with me. Heather was there almost constantly. We mended fences.

................................................

I went back to work, doing the best job I could.

One night I was whining yet again to my friends when Stella slapped me.

"What was that for?" I whimpered, holding me jaw.

"That was for being a sniffling little bitch. You fucked up, royally. Now, are you gonna whine the rest of your life like a little girl, or are you going to act like the woman we got a glimpse of and try to fix this?"

"How?" I asked, shocked. "He hates me and I don't blame him. What can I do?"

Janey spoke up.

"He's a mess. Sam told me he was back home and in therapy, something he hasn't done in a long time. If he didn't still love you, he'd be doing better by now. But, Babe, if you give him time to get over you, he will. What did your mantra used to be? Be bold? Well, live up to it. Find him, and make him listen."

"How? I don't know his name, where he lives, and the people that do won't talk to me."

Stella jumped in.

"I know where he is. So does Janey. Our men told us. But don't ask, you have to do this on your own. You need to earn this, to make it mean anything. That being said, we'll help you where we can, keep you going in the right direction. Are you woman enough?"

For the first time in three weeks, I felt hope. I squared my shoulders.

"Damn right I am. And I'm starting right now."

.................................................

It took me eleven weeks. I think Stella and Janey almost gave up on me, but I kept plugging.

I begged Reggie and Sam, but they absolutely refused. Sam was a little brutal with me.

He let me back in his bar one night, talked to me between customers.

"Let me start with how we met. We had something in common. Our wives were dying of cancer."

He showed me a picture. A smiling young woman, very pretty, holding Sam.

Amy, my wife, and Sarah, met in a support group the first time they faced cancer. They were close in age, and hit it off. We socialized, became good friends. We didn't live close, so we didn't get together often, but the girls talked constantly.

Two years before Sarah relapsed, it hit us. I was a mess. Sarah stopped working and moved up to help take care of here, and he was there every weekend, supporting me. He was a pallbearer, and Sarah sang her favorite song at the funeral.

I went into a depression. I knew I was going to lose the bar, I had bled all I could off it for her medical bills, and they stepped in, giving me the money to remodel and carry on until it became profitable again. They did it in part to give me a reason to live, I'm sure. I insisted on repaying them, so they set up a schedule. Twenty five hundred a year, no more, no less. I figured it up once. Without interest, it'll take me eighty three years to repay him."

He paused for a moment, the pain in his eyes at he put the photo up.

"I know you know he was in the war, you've seen the scars. He never talked abut it, but I got the feeling he was into some pretty hairy things. You've seen him in confrontational situations, so you know how tough he can be. When Sarah died, he cried like a baby. All his friends had serious doubts he would recover. We got him into counseling. It helped a little, but after eighteen months he decided he needed a change, so he came to see me. He wasn't ready for a lot of interaction, but he needed to be around people That's why he came and sat in the bar."

He paused for breath.

"Then you sat down at his table, and I saw him slowly come back to the land of the living. You know he always worried about the age difference, but what you don't know is that I'm the one who convinced him it didn't matter. To be honest, I've regretted that, after what you did."

He looked me in the eye and I felt like backing up.

"If it was up to me, I'd say he was well shut of you, but Janey, bless her heart, convinced me you really do love him. I'm sure you don't need to hear this, but if you find him, you better be able to tell him honestly you've actually grown up now. If you can't you don't have a chance. Here."

He handed me an envelope.

"He wanted you to have this. I almost didn't give it to you. Another thing you can thank Janey for."

I opened it when I got home, too afraid to in the bar.

"Kelly,

I've thought about this a lot the last few days. And while I'm tremendously hurt and disappointed by the way you behaved, in one way it was a blessing. You still haven't matured, and I was an old fool for thinking you had.

You have the makings of a terrific human being. Warm, compassionate, and capable of being very loving. The man who ends up with you will be lucky indeed. Too bad it wasn't me.

But, I made it clear when we first got together I wasn't into games or lies. What you did was juvenile and extremely cruel. The very lack of maturity you exhibited made it clear you weren't ready for an adult relationship. Think next time, communicate, never assume. It often turns out badly if you do.

That being said, I want to thank you for the time we spent together. It showed me love was still possible, and there was hope for me yet. I'll always treasure you for that and the time we spent together.

Go back to college. Set the financial world on fire. I expect to read about you in Forbes or Money Magazine one of these days.

I wish you the best,

Ghost"

Will I never stop crying?

.................................................

In the end, a mechanic at the bike shop fingered him. I had been in several times, trying to get them to give me his name and address. I was refused every time. In desperation I posted a picture of him and his bike on their bulletin board, asking for information and offering a reward.

He called, we negotiated a price. For two thousand dollars and a solemn promise to never divulge how I got the information, I had his name and home address.

I called the girls from the road, putting it on three way. Janey and Cindy were together, and Stella was on the other line.

"I found him!" I screamed, listening to the whoops and cheers.

"I'm on the way now. Wish me luck."

They gave me their well wishes and solemn advice, with instructions for updates.

It was fourteen hours from my house to his. I drove eight before getting sleepy, finding a motel an crashing for the night. I was up and off early the next day.

I missed him at work by ten minutes. I walked into the office and everyone stopped and stared at me.

"You're her!" gasped one girl, in wonder.

The office manager collected me and rushed me into his office.

"Does he know you're here?" he asked.

"No, I wanted to surprise him."

It took forty minutes of begging before he gave me his home address.

"I'm his past wife's uncle. We all feared for him after she passed, but he went away for awhile, and when he came back he was happier than he had been in a long time. He still has a picture of you on his bike as a screen saver. You're not going to hurt him again, are you? He's still in love with you, you can see it in his face."

"No" I cried, "Never again! Please, I have to talk to him."

He gave me directions, printing them out.

................................................

The man known as Ghost sat in his car and sighed. It had been a rough three months. 

"Damn, when will I stop missing her?" he thought, as he slowly got out, walking up the steps to his porch, where he dropped his briefcase and sat in the big double rocker that had been left when he bought the place. He had bought it as a memorial to his deceased wife, because she had loved this lake. He would often sit and rock, watching the boats on the water and the changing leaves. He shut his eyes, and a vision of children cavorting on the edge of the water came to him, with a beautiful woman standing with them, smiling and waving. The woman was Babe, and the children were his.

He idly pushed at hair that was no longer there, He had shorn his locks off into a sensible business cut, and he still wasn't used to it. Seemed he had a lot of trouble sleeping lately, so he wasn't surprised when he started nodding off in the heat of the afternoon sun. Maybe he'd have a happy dream.

..................................................

I saw him, sitting in the rocker, obviously asleep. I cut the car off, glad the little Honda was so quiet, and slipped up on the porch. He looked so much older, and I hated his hair. I eased into the chair beside him, leaned in and wrapped my arms round him. He shifted in his sleep, mumbling something that sounded suspiciously like 'love you', before wrapping an arm around me. I was afraid to move, and held as still as possible, savoring the feeling. I even managed to cry quietly.

He woke feeling something wet on his chest. He had an idle thought he'd spilled tea on his shirt, and looked down. It couldn't be.

"Babe?" he asked quietly being rewarded with a tightening of her arms, and snuffles beginning in earnest.

"What are you doing here?"

"Sorry, so sorry" Came out brokenly. That was the best I could do? I looked up at him, scared to death. He had tears in his eyes, too, but he hadn't let go of me. That's when I knew. He was going to forgive me, and I'd never do anything that stupid again.

I kept trying to talk as he tried to shush me. Finally he just leaned down and started kissing me. Deciding to let my tongue do the talking, I gave in. We must have kissed for twenty minutes before he stood, scooping me into his arms. I held on tightly as he unlocked the door and carried me through.

I'd love to say he had a beautiful house, that the layout was impressive and the furniture tasteful, but I only had eyes for him. He had a nice big bed, though. We collapsed on it, still kissing.

Bet this is the part where you think he ripped my clothes off and we screwed our brains out, but you'd be wrong. We kissed for another twenty minutes, before we caught our breath and started talking.

We talked for two hours. I got everything I wanted to say out. We finally got around to talking about my childish behavior, and I assured him I would never do that ever again.

"How do I know that?" He asked, gently.

"Because I had an idiot alarm installed" I said, pulling a gold chain out of my sweater. The crushed engagement ring dangled at the bottom.

"Any time I think of not talking or doing something stupid, I'll pull this out and look at it. It will make me think."

He frowned, then said something that made the rest of my life.

"Need to get that replaced. We'll go....."

That was all he got out before the banging like bunnies part of the program began.

................................................

We talked for two days. I was surprised to find out he was only thirty six.

"Men in my family start graying early. I have a cousin, twenty two, grayer than I am."

He was surprised when I told him I was twenty five. He thought I was twenty one or two.

I got around to calling my friends, putting them on speaker. There were cheers and congratulations.

"Now that that's settled, tell us your name" said Janey, laughing.

I put my hand over his mouth.

"You'll have to wait for the wedding" I laughed.

I had only one condition for the wedding. His hair had to grow back out before vows were exchanged.

So on a beautiful spring day five months later, under a bower by the lake at our home, Kelly Anne Pinckney and Aaron Neville Brown became one. Reggie walked me down the aisle while Stella cried, despite trying not too.

His extensive family welcomed me with open arms. My Dad managed to come back three weeks after the service. They seemed to get along well. If we had known he could have come, we would have waited, but in the end it was a good thing we didn't. We didn't know it, but I was six weeks pregnant when we said I do. A girl. Followed by two boys, but little Stella had her daddy wrapped around her finger from the time she was born.

.................................................

I sat in the living room, surrounded by family and friends, and looked out at the deck, remembering the party last spring, for our thirtieth wedding anniversary. My Ghost, in his mid sixties now, still had long hair, but it was white now. Mine was silver.

It was Halloween, and we had all our friends and family over. We had hired two local teen girls to herd the grandchildren around the neighborhood and then to the basement for a little party of their own. The adults were dressed. I was an Angel, and Ghost had on a long flowing white robe and held a staff. I think he was supposed to be Moses.

We have a good life. Seems his first wife inherited a string of offices from her father, specializing in investment and insurance services. Ghost sold them to Reggie, who was anxious to get into the Southern market. He saved money because I went to college on our money, but he did hire me to run a local branch, after the kids were all in school. Ghost took part of our money and bought a Harley dealership to keep himself busy.

We named our first son Reginald, and he and Stella were godparents to all of our children. They even spent time with them in the summer when they got older, much to their delight. They called them Grandpa and Nonnie, and didn't know for years they weren't actually related. When Reggie died the tears couldn't have been anymore heartfelt if they had been blood. Stella bought a house close enough to us the kids were there almost constantly. She developed a relationship with a man ten years her junior, but never remarried. He loved her, though, and when she passed we thought we might have to sedate him. She left him their home and a small fortune. She left her financial empire to her grandchildren.

Janey married Sam, and they're still together. They have five children.

JoJo still lives with Mona, his tattooed mistress. They never had any children.

Heather married Ron. It lasted eleven months before they had it annulled. She stayed single for four years, before meeting a man twenty years her senior, who swept he off her feet. They had one child, a son. So she did indeed become a trophy wive, but she loved him and never strayed. When he passed two years ago she retired and moved down to be close to us. She and the man Stella loved have developed a relationship based on similar loss, but who knows if it will go anywhere.

Cindy married Johnny. It lasted three years before he left her. After a few years, she developed a relationship with a woman. And her husband. We accepted them, and she had a daughter a few years later.

I was brought back to reality by Cindy's daughter, as she told her tale.

"So what do you think I should do, Aunt Babe{I never shook the nickname. I was kind of proud of it}?"

Seems she was desperately in love with a man eight years her senior. She was twenty two, he was thirty. The age difference bothered him. He was here, and her eyes followed him as he mingled. He kept glancing at her. It was pretty plain what was going on.

I took the cute little devil by her redgloved hand.

"JJ[Janey Junior, we developed a habit of naming our children after each other], let me tell you a ghost story."

The women, young and old, collapsed in giggles.

..................................................

Well there it is. I hope you liked it.

Just a note. I just got home from a lengthy stay at the antiseptic hotel. They wouldn't let me have my laptop, so all I had to do was think. It led to me completely scrapping the third installment of Finding An Editor, it was just too saccharine. I went in a different direction, and hope to have it out soon. I'm a little slower, if that's possible, now. My keyboard skills, never great, are diminished slightly now due to a numb left hand. 

Thanks for your time, comment and vote if you want.

QHML1