3 comments/ 17999 views/ 2 favorites Jocks & Cheerleaders Ch. 01 By: steamoil He was late. He hated being late. It was maths, and he hated maths. The engineering subjects he loved, particularly the practicals. He'd been good at maths at school, but this esoteric stuff on fluid flows he just couldn't get the hang of at all. He hurried down the corridor, knocked on the door and slipped in muttering an apology. He looked blindly around and at first couldn't see a seat. Then he spotted one near the back, and his breath caught in his throat. He was sure the person occupying the other seat at the table was an angel. Translucent skin with a dusting of freckles over the sculpted nose. Full lips. Delicately delineated eyebrows over piercing green eyes. And a cascade of wavy chestnut hair. She was bored. She loved maths. But this lecture was going over old ground. Then there was a tentative knock on the door, and one of her most hated species came into the room. To be fair, he did seem embarrassed that he was late and muttered an apology. His face flamed as he searched blindly for a seat. To her surprise she felt a twinge of sympathy, knowing how difficult it is to see things when under pressure. She saw he had spotted the empty seat, and his eyes widened with a reaction that she had come to hate. As he headed to the seat beside her, she cursed the absence of her maths buddy. He sensed the negative vibes coming off the girl with the face of an angel. He did his best not to succumb to the urge to glance at her face and fill his eyes with her beauty. And he tried not to sit too close. He had to admit she was distracting him from the maths. And boy was today's lecture trying. He knew he needed to understand, but it was just so difficult. He sighed again and bent to his books, noticing that she was jotting a few notes but mostly doodling and looking around. That made him pause for thought. Maybe it wasn't just that he was sitting there that was making her annoyed. Maybe she was like the others, a bit of an air head and couldn't do the maths either. He was puzzled. He shrugged his shoulders and dragged his attention back to the maths. She was puzzled too, by his frequent sighs. She took a surreptitious look at his book, and her lip curled in disdain. Yep, he was a typical jock without a hope of understanding this level of maths. His notes showed that he'd missed crucial steps, misunderstood others, and was up a blind alley. She couldn't help grinning as he sighed again. She was delighted with the thought that he'd fail this paper even if he was a miracle at sport. He castigated himself for being distracted by a pretty face. He kept pulling himself up and willing himself to concentrate on the maths. He kept reminding himself why he didn't want to go there. "I won't speak to her. I won't." He reminded himself continually. And went back to the hopeless task of following a lecture he'd lost track of long ago. As the lecture ended, he turned to her, was stunned again by her face, and much to his chagrin couldn't stop himself opening his mouth: "I see you shared my difficulty with the maths." She laughed contemptuously at him, and said with sugary sweetness, "Actually, no. It was too easy." The surprise showed on his face. "You understand it? I wish I did. I love my subject, but I just can't do maths. Unfortunately I have to pass to graduate, and this is my third attempt." It was her turn to be surprised. First by his straightforward reaction to her sarcastic remark. Then by his obvious frustration. Perhaps she'd misunderstood. Anyway, when she stood up he'd realise and leave her alone so she wouldn't have to worry. She gave him a smile that didn't reach her eyes, "Good luck with your studies." And she stood to leave. Much to her surprise, he called out to her. "Wait. If you understand it so easily, would you mind trying to explain it to me? I really need some help here." He definitely wasn't a normal jock. If he had been, he would have left her alone as soon as he saw her very overweight figure. A normal jock might have been attracted to her face, but would have been completely turned off by her figure. She couldn't deny that he was exactly the sort of man she would love to have as a boyfriend, but she wasn't going there again. But what if he was genuine? How could it hurt if she just helped him? "OK." She couldn't believe she'd agreed to spend any time with a jock. What an idiot. He gave her a great big grin, lighting up his whole face and shining through his eyes. "Thank you. I can't tell you how grateful I am. And I'm sorry I had to sit by you. I know it made you uncomfortable. Well, actually I'm not sorry for me if it helps me get my maths, but I am sorry it made you feel bad." He noticed? Wow. Since when had a jock ever noticed how a girl felt? Ok, she was jaundiced, but even so this guy was different. He seemed to act normal, not like the world owed him a living. He wasn't put off by her gross figure. He didn't react badly to her sarcasm. She began to think she had totally misjudged him. The girl with the angel face had just agreed to help him with his maths. He was out of his mind. What the hell was he doing asking any girl to help. Seduced by a pretty face. Again. What the hell. He'd just get the coaching then walk away. She was fairly hostile anyway, so there was no danger. "When would be convenient for you?" He continued. He was asking? Why wasn't he telling her when he could fit it in? "Um. How about after my last class later today? Or same time tomorrow?" She suggested. "Fine with me. I had a practice booked, but I'll cancel it. Can we do today? I really need this." She had misjudged him. He was cancelling a practice to do maths. Now she needed to get the first strike in for where, because she definitely wasn't going to meet him anywhere alone. "How about we meet in the library at about six then?" "Thank you. I'm really grateful that you're taking me seriously." As she walked away, she suddenly realised that he had not challenged her statement about understanding maths. The bastard who'd hurt her so badly hadn't acknowledged she had a brain - ever. Who was this bloke? Why did he upset her equilibrium? Why couldn't she just carry on behind her defences and get her degree? She mused on imponderables until the lecture on quantum mechanics took her mind off them. She was fascinated by string theory, and didn't think about her appointment again until after her next lecture. As she wandered slowly across to the library, she asked herself again what she was thinking of when she agreed to this. She was just thinking she would tell him it was a mistake and go back to her room when she saw him. As soon as he saw her, a smile lit up his face, and all her resolution left. "Hell, it's only maths tutoring. What's the harm in that?" She thought. He looked up, and suddenly there she was. He was stunned all over again, and felt his face split into a huge grin. He also took in that she was overweight. "Funny." He mused, "I thought I liked tall thin girls. This one is tall, but she's not thin by anyone's standards." Then she grinned back at him. This time the smile reached her eyes, and he almost gasped. As she came up to him, he spoke: "Hello Angel. Thank you so much for coming." She was stunned all over again. He was polite and treated her like an equal. Suddenly she realised what he'd said. "My name's not Angel." "But you are to me. You're my angel of mercy. Or at least my angel of maths!" He laughed. It was infectious, and she grinned back at him. "We'll see about that." It was hard. She couldn't get through the concepts that she found so simple. Suddenly he said something about an integration, and she realised that the problem wasn't this particular method, he didn't understand the basics. "OK. So how do you calculate the area under a curve?" He looked at her with a puzzled frown. "What do you mean? I don't understand how that's relevant to this method." "Do you trust my maths?" She asked. "Sure." He said easily. "Why shouldn't I." He did trust her. And he didn't question that she had a brain. She still found that hard to accept. "OK, then let's look at areas under curves. We'll start with the most straightforward." After two gruelling hours of work, he suddenly said, "That's it. Now I can see why I couldn't understand the flow methods. You're amazing." And he grabbed her and gave her a big bear hug. "Thank you." As if it was the most natural thing in the world, he let go of her, and asked, "You know you said tomorrow was free as well?" She was totally flustered by the hug, and braced herself for the date question. "Would you go over the flow parts tomorrow for me so that I can be sure that the basics are firmly in my brain? Or is that too much to ask?" It wasn't the date question. She couldn't believe it. It was the most normal experience she'd ever had with a bloke. He'd hugged her because of who she was, not what she looked like. She could feel the tears welling up, so she turned to pack up to hide her face, and covered by asking: "No problem. Same time and place?" "Thank you. I'd be really grateful." As she got up to leave, she could see him out of the corner of her eye looking at his watch. "Oh." His surprise was evident. "We've been two and a half hours. I'm so sorry. At least let me buy you some food." She couldn't be angry. It was a completely straightforward suggestion. It wasn't a date. It was what you would expect from anyone. Guilt at having taken so much of her time. The need to eat. And a quid pro quo for the coaching. Unbelievably she found herself accepting. As they waited for their food they were both amazed at how easily they chatted. About studying. About friends. About politics. About cooking. About music. In fact about anything. Suddenly she remembered something. "What practice was it you missed, Jock?" He coloured slightly. "Oh, it was nothing really. A couple of friends and I are doing a concert at the end of the semester and we usually practice two nights a week. It won't hurt to miss one. And my name's not Jock!" She couldn't help the shock showing on her face. Oh how much she had misjudged him. It wasn't even a sports practice. "But like you thought I was Angel, that was what I thought about you. Do you play any sport?" He looked embarrassed. "No. I run to keep fit, but no sports. I'm sorry." "Why are you sorry?" She didn't understand. "Well, you thought I was a jock. I'm afraid not." He apologised. Her laugh surprised him. He couldn't help smiling. She was laughing so hard she couldn't speak for a bit. "I .... I ...," she giggled, "I did think you were a jock. That was why I was so annoyed. I thought you were going to do the arrogant 'come on I'm irresistible' thing to me." Suddenly she was very serious. "I can't bear it." He saw tears welling up into her eyes. He reached across the table and took her hand. "Hey." He said softly. "Whatever happened to make you so upset?" A tear ran down her cheek, and he wiped it away gently. She shook her head. "It doesn't matter." "It does to me. I'd be honoured to hear about it anytime you want to tell me." More tears slid down her cheeks, and she made a determined effort to stop. "Thank you. Maybe another time, please?" He squeezed her hand and let go so that she could mop her face. Their food arriving was a welcome interruption that allowed her to recover and gave them both a chance to start afresh. "So is your subject maths?" He deliberately changed the subject to something neutral. She loved him for it. "No. I'm an astro-physicist." It was his turn to be shocked. "So not just good at maths, but seriously clever then?" He grinned at her. She couldn't help smiling back at him. "I know you thought I was just a pretty face. But I have to say you didn't stop at that impression like most. I didn't have to justify to you that I was clever, you took my word for it." He looked puzzled. "Why wouldn't I?" "You'd be surprised. One day I will tell you. Anyway, what's your subject?" He raised one eyebrow. "Not maths. But you know that. I'm an engineer at heart, but need maths to pass." Before she could stop herself, she blurted out, "Ah, so you could fix our electrics?" Then blushed bright red. He smiled again. "I love it that you know you assumed. Actually I am very practical, and might be able to help. Give me your address and I'll call in with my tools." She murmured her thanks, and smiled at him, shyly this time. When he saw the shy smile, his heart missed a beat. At that moment, he realised that here was someone of whom he did not need to be afraid. Who would let him be himself. Suddenly it was as if a huge weight had been lifted from his shoulders, and a beatific smile lit his face. "You look pleased with yourself." That wiped the smile off his face. "I'm sorry. What did I say?" She asked in alarm. "Oh. Sorry. It wasn't you really. What you said reminded me of some history. I'd like to tell you some day, but not today, please." "So where are you from?" He recognised his merciful ploy from earlier, and was grateful to her. The rest of the meal went by in pleasant conversation, and they left with a cheery "See you tomorrow". The next evening in the library he was delighted to realise that with her help he could understand the maths. Another huge relief, and he asked if she would help him to pass the exam. To his surprise, she agreed, and they went off to their evening engagements. On Saturday after a long practice with his mates, he got his tools and went to the address she had given him. He was just about to leave, thinking there was nobody in, when he heard someone answering his ring on the bell and opening the door. He stepped back in amazement. The girl who had answered the door had the face of his Angel, but was beanpole thin with straight wet hair, wrapped in a robe with droplets of water clinging to calves, beet red and stammering. "I'm so sorry. I didn't know Angel had a twin. Is she in?" Angel's twin stuttered out, "Sh...she's in the middle of a shower. Would you like to wait?" He couldn't help it. He had visions of the twins in the shower with each other. With an effort he pulled himself together and said he'd go for a walk and come back as it would be easier for them all. Half an hour later he was back, and Angel let him in. "Sorry about earlier." He apologised. "I think your twin was a bit embarrassed, like me." "Um. She's here occasionally." She coloured a little. "She's part of what I might tell you about one day." He grinned at her. "Secrets you can't bear to reveal, like mine." She glanced at him. "Yes. You understand, don't you?" That was why she liked him. Hang on, did she just think that? She changed the subject quickly. "Come and have a look at the main light in my bedroom. If I turn it on it blows a breaker." He followed her into her room. He wasn't sure he wanted to be there, but he was interested, none-the-less. It was neat, but colourful. The desk had a few open books with her laptop nestling amongst them like a grey stepping stone in waves of the printed page. The chair was covered with a multi-coloured throw. There was a small army of bottles and jars jostling for position on the top of a bookshelf under the mirror. An old TV stood on a video player, which in turn was pressing down on a DVD player. The case of Stardust was open on the floor below. He realised she was looking at him as if waiting, and realised he'd been studying her domain a little too hard. He pulled himself together and asked, "Is the breaker in or out?" "It has to be in or none of the lights work." "Right. Show me what happens." He looked up expectantly and jumped slightly when there was a bang and a flash from the ceiling rose. "Bad then!" He grinned at her, slipped out of his shoes and jumped on the bed. Expertly he twisted the rose and it obediently dropped to the bottom of the flex. It was black inside with scorch marks on one side. "Every picture tells a story." He muttered to himself. "Pass the wire cutters, please." And he held out his hand. Angel opened his tool box and pulled out the wire cutters. As she handed them to him, their fingers brushed. She jumped slightly. "Sorry – did I scratch." Slightly embarrassed, she responded, "Er, no. Must have been static." He glanced at her and realised that she must have felt the connection too. "Excellent recovery. Bright as a button." He thought, and reached up to cut the flex on the main insulation. "Hey, what's that for?" She looked aggrieved as he dropped the flex, fitting, and rose, shade and all, on her bed. "Got to get rid of the bit that's caused the problem." He was busy undoing the screw terminals, and the remaining wire dropped into his waiting hand. He stepped down off the bed and opened his hand to show her. "The insulation has split where the wire went round that post. That, and the fact that the installer didn't route the other wire round the other way, caused the short." He noticed a slight colour in her cheeks. "Oh god. I'm sorry. You installed it." She nodded, embarrassed. "Don't be sorry. I may be good at theory, but I'm not so good at the practical stuff." "Hey. If you knew, I'm sure you would have done it right. Experience is the name Man gives to his mistakes. Look," He pointed up to the block on the ceiling. "The wires have to go round the posts on each side. Not only does it separate them in case of insulation failure, it allows both wires to take an equal load." "Oh. I see." She was amazed. None of the supercilious smile and chauvinism. He'd just explained it to her as if she had a brain. As if she could do it herself. As if she wasn't stupid. He was rummaging in his tool bag, and finally emerged triumphantly with the wire strippers. "Used these before?" He asked. "No. I just used a knife or scissors." He grinned at her. "Just wait till you see how easy these make it." He was busy stripping back the outer insulation, and when he'd finished he held the flex for her and gave her the strippers. "Choose the hole you think is about the same size as the wire, then simply squeeze when the wire is at the point where it matches the length of bare wire you want." Angel did as he said, then looked up at him and grinned delightedly. "Wow. It does all the hard work. Look, a perfect end." He grinned back, delighted by her success. "Now the other one, then up it goes again." She stripped the second wire, and he stepped up on the bed to hold the weight of the fixture and shade while she screwed up the terminals. As she stepped up, the tilt of the mattress made her wobble, and he held out his spare hand to steady her. They both jumped slightly at the contact, and he let go as soon as she had her balance. She reached both arms up to put the wires into the terminal block and screw them tight, as his gaze skittered away from the sight of her top moulding to her breasts. He watched as she fed the wires round the opposite posts and screwed up the ceiling rose. "I'll just go and put the breaker back and we can test it." She went out and he used the time to look around her domain again while he put away the tools. He looked up as she came back in and flicked the switch. The light came on. She smiled at him, and he felt the impact right down to his boots. "Thank you so much." "It's no recompense for all the maths tutoring!" He mumbled. "But that's just it, it is to me." She grinned at him. "Come on, let's get something to eat. Would you prefer to cook here or go out?" "Here, if you don't mind." His heart sang. She'd asked him to stay. She wondered at herself. It had felt so natural offering him the choice of here or out. She actually wasn't worried by his choice, although she couldn't completely get rid of the feeling of unease that things might turn bad. But she reasoned that he wasn't a sports jock, so her previous experience surely wouldn't be repeated? Jocks & Cheerleaders Ch. 01 They had such fun in the kitchen, producing food between them. Brushing against her in the small space was an embarrassing delight. Embarrassing because he found himself hardening each time, and was terrified she notice and think he was just interested in sex. She did notice his problem, and was touched that he tried so hard to hide it from her. She was pleased he knew his way round the kitchen and could cook. Truly an excellent trait in a man. She noticed his relief that he didn't have to try to turn from her once they sat on the settee to eat. The food was good and, putting their dishes on the floor they sat back with their wine. Once again chatting was easy, and ideas flowed between them. At one point he was telling her how bad he felt about the maths before she came along, and she put her hand on his arm in sympathy. His reaction was simple and beautiful. He picked up her hand, and drawing it to his mouth he leant down and kissed it gently. Angel forgot to breathe, and unconsciously lifted her head. His lips moved slowly from her hand to her lips and they kissed. Fire pulsed through Jock at the exquisite touch of her lips. His hands reached out to hold her and pull her to him. As the kiss deepened, Angel was fighting the fog of passion in her brain. Why was this such a bad idea? How could it be? It felt so good. Then she realised his hands were reaching for her, and the shock cleared her brain like a douche of cold water, and she pulled away blushing furiously and panting. "Angel?" His concerned query made her feel even worse. "Jock, I can't do this. I'm a living lie." He froze. It couldn't be happening again. Then he pulled himself together. Of course it couldn't. Living lies didn't tell you that's what they are. She noticed his shock, and nearly broke down. "It's my twin you want, not me. She's the pure one. I'm the lie." "No. You're wrong. It really is you I want. I don't know your twin. I've only seen her once. The girl I've fallen in love with is right in front of me." Angel burst into tears and sobbed uncontrollably. Jock pulled her into his arms and soothed her, rubbing his hand up and down her back and murmuring consoling words into her ear. She gradually subsided. He gently mopped her cheeks with his handkerchief, then handed it to her. She blew her nose and wiped her eyes, still hiccoughing and sighing. Then she straightened her shoulders, and looking as though her heart was breaking, told him, "I'm sorry, Jock. I can't do this. You must go and find yourself someone who isn't living a lie." His response was to kiss her soundly. "I'm not going anywhere until I've heard about it and made my own mind up. Let me tell you about me, then maybe you'll feel safe telling me about you." He laughed. "Or maybe you'll want to run a mile." Hope flared in him as she laid her head on his chest and her breath became more even. "When I arrived at my last school, I was nervous joining in with a crowd of my year and above who had been with each other all through school." Her hand was stroking his arm, comforting him. "There was the usual established crowd of jocks and cheerleaders, but my nerves were greatly eased because this really beautiful girl kind of took me under her wing and introduced me to them all. It turns out she was the head cheerleader, and I was immensely flattered that she wanted to go around with me. We started dating, and I was a fair way to thinking she might be the one." His throat started to close with emotion as he re-lived his experience, and his voice wobbled. Angel cupped his cheek in her hand, and said quietly, "Go on." "It was about six weeks into the term, and she asked me to a party. I didn't know, but it was at the quarterback's place. She'd thought I would be the new quarterback, and she had suddenly realised that I wasn't in the running. We went together to the party, and she said we had to go in under a line of players and cheerleaders because it was a tradition. When we got to the start of the line, they were all there, player and cheerleader with joined hands making an arch, and she pushed me forward, saying, 'I'll be right behind you'. She was ..... but, ...." His voice suspended, and he struggled to continue. Suddenly she realised he was crying, and she reached up and kissed him, wiping away the tears with her thumb. She strained to hear the whisper. "She was with the quarterback, and she'd organised for them all to chant." He was silent for a moment, struggling to regain some semblance of calm. His voice was stronger. "I walked the whole length of the line, then just carried on walking out of there." Her heart was breaking for him. The strength it took to do that. And she knew there was more he wasn't telling her. "I vowed I would never go out with a cheerleader again." There was silence for a long time as they both processed their thoughts and reactions. Finally Angel said diffidently, "Not all cheerleaders are bad." After a bit, he said flatly, "You were one." It was more of a statement than a question. She nodded. She started slowly. "I was going out with the quarterback. I was the head cheerleader. Like you, I thought he might be the one I ended up with." As her story unfolded, she gained in confidence. "To start with, he was lovely, and we had a good time. But he started to want me to do things I wasn't comfortable with. I realised that he didn't know I was intelligent, and didn't want me to be because it would threaten him. Then he took me to a party." She smiled up at him, acknowledging the similarity to his story. But the smile was chilled with the emotion of what was to come. "We went upstairs part way through the party, and we were making out. He was being really sweet, and I let him undress me a little so he could touch and kiss my breasts." Her face flamed. Partly at telling him, and partly with the memory. "Then suddenly all his mates came into the room, and I ..." Her voice broke, and tears were streaming down her face. He held her again and soothed her. "I ... I .... c c .... c..an't tell you." She hid her face in his chest. He lifted her into his lap, and drew her close. He poured his love over her until she calmed again. "His eyes were shining with anticipation, and I realised that they were .... They were .... They were all ... going to ..." "Bastards. Bloody bastards." He said vehemently. She was immensely cheered by his reaction, and managed to choke out. "I woke up in hospital." "Oh God." Was wrung from him. "I'll kill them." She could feel the tension in him, and she loved him for it. "The police pressed charges, the doctors matched DNA and testified, and they all went to jail for a very long time. The police counsellor and doctors helped me to come here away from it all." She felt the tension lessen slightly and a smile. She looked up in amazement to find him grinning at her. "That's the only good bit. I wouldn't have met you otherwise." She smiled back at him, despite the awful memories. "Mum always used to say every cloud ..." He very gently kissed her, then pulled her back into his arms and dropped a kiss on her hair. They sat again, thinking, coming to terms with what had happened to them. Suddenly she stiffened and sat up. "That's not all." She could see that he was horrified. "Angel, surely nothing worse happened to you?" There was no help for it. She plunged in. "I wear a fat suit." "I'm sorry?" His blank astonishment almost had her running from the room. Then understanding dawned. "Ah. I did wonder about the industrial strength underwear I thought I felt, but I don't have much experience." She punched him on the arm in retaliation for the underwear remark. "And I don't have a twin." His eyes widened. "That was you?" "So now you know I'm damaged and a psychopath, you can run away." His face was deadly serious. "Angel, if I run anywhere, it will be to get a marriage licence." Angel's mouth dropped open, the shock evident on her face. "How ... how can you say that?" In answer, Jock picked her up and stood her on wobbly legs next to the settee. He held her hand and went down on one knee, "Angel, I love you. Will you marry me?" Tears steamed down her face, which still showed shock. "I can't." She whispered. Jock's world came crashing down round his ears. His face crumpled, and he sat back against the settee breathing hard. Angel was horrified at the effect her answer had on him. She sat in his lap, tears still streaming down her face. "Jock, I can't because I'm damaged." She explained. A tiny hope sprung up as he listened. "Can I take that as a maybe?" He whispered. "Will you let me ask you again when we know each other better?" As Angel felt the pressure recede, she calmed and realised that her shock reaction had nearly scuppered the whole relationship. Then she was amazed as she realised it was her reaction to his proposal that had done that, not the terrible things that had happened to her. "Jock, I'm sorry. That was not well done of me. My fear got the better of me. Yes please." They held each other as the world kept turning, and eventually sleep overcame them. He woke later stiff and cold. Very gently he picked her up and carried her to the bedroom, snuggling them both under the quilt. She burrowed into him and sighed in her sleep. For a long time he lay awake thinking. He'd actually proposed marriage to a cheerleader, a species he'd despised for years. Of course in theory he realised that they weren't all bad, but in practice that had been his reaction. OK, she was an ex-cheerleader, and her experience had been so much worse than his. His heart broke all over again as he tried not to imagine what she'd been through that had put her in hospital. Suddenly he thought how strong she must be to be as normal as she was. He grinned to himself as he thought of the genius stroke of wearing a fat suit to discourage attention. How the hell had he managed to get past her defences? As he drifted off to sleep, immeasurably comforted by her warm presence in his arms, he thought how glad he was that he had. He woke later than usual, gradually realising where he was, and opening his eyes to see Angel's breathtakingly beautiful face a few inches from his own. A pair of enchanting green eyes were looking into his. Full of fear. "Angel, I didn't do anything. We just held each other and slept." Her face relaxed slightly. "How did you know that was what I was worrying about?" "After what you've been through, I'm surprised I'm here at all. I was thinking in the night how lucky I am to have broken through your industrial strength defences." A reluctant laugh broke from her, as he had intended, and she whacked him on the arm again. "You have no memory of what happened that put you in hospital, or how you got there. So it's not surprising that you are afraid things might happen to you that you know nothing about. Look at me Angel." He said seriously, and gently held her head between his hands. "I would never do anything with you or to you without you knowing, and if you ask me, I will always be completely honest with you and tell you exactly what happened. Then you can compare it with your memory of what happened. Eventually you will trust that they are identical, but after so much hurt it will take many many comparisons before you start to believe it." She looked into his eyes, and saw such caring she could feel the tears forming in the corners of her eyes. His thumbs caressed her cheeks, and he leant forward slowly and brushed her lips with a kiss which rocked her to the bottom of her soul with its tenderness. "Tell me what happened last night and this morning." "You were shocked that I wanted to marry you. You cried, and we held each other for a long time while we both calmed down, and eventually drifted off. I woke up much later cold and stiff, so I picked you up and took you to your bed, cuddled us up together and covered us with the quilt. You sort of burrowed into me and sighed in your sleep. Next thing I knew was when I opened my eyes just now to see a breathtakingly beautiful face a few inches from mine." "Oh God. You carried me to bed and I didn't wake up." Her face flamed and he could read the shock in her eyes. "Angel, it's no big deal." "But don't you see, it is? I didn't know you'd done it. You could have done anything and I wouldn't know." She was becoming hysterical and very frightened. "Angel, you would have woken up if I had made any sudden move, or done anything other than carry you gently to bed. I'm really sorry. I should have thought about that and woken you up." "You really think so?" "Yes, I really do. Tell you what, we'll try it tonight." He had suggested it as a way to calm her fears, but he suddenly realised the benefit for him if she accepted. It would indicate that she trusted him and didn't want him to leave. "OK. I like that idea. And it gives us a chance to get to know each other better. I know I liked being cuddled by you." Her honesty and straightforward talk was disconcerting, but you certainly knew where you stood. He tried to match it. "You have no idea what a privilege it was to cuddle you last night. And to wake up next to you this morning was unbelievable. I don't want that to end." The significance of his statement was not lost on Angel, and it gave her both a warm feeling and a dread that she couldn't do it. "Listen, you stay there. Relax and recover a bit, because you've had a terrible shock. I'll make us some tea." Jocks & Cheerleaders Ch. 02 "OK. I like that idea. And it gives us a chance to get to know each other better. I know I liked being cuddled by you." Her honesty and straightforward talk was disconcerting, but you certainly knew where you stood. He tried to match it. "You have no idea what a privilege it was to cuddle you last night. And to wake up next to you this morning was unbelievable. I don't want that to end." The significance of his statement was not lost on Angel, and it gave her both a warm feeling and a dread that she couldn't do it. "Listen, you stay there. Relax and recover a bit, because you've had a terrible shock. I'll make us some tea." He got up and went out to find the tea things in the kitchen. Angel lay there. She felt relaxed and dopey in the warm bed, thoughts drifting slowly through her mind in random order. Slightly bereft that he had left, much to her surprise. Glad of the warm indent next to her where he had been. Jumpy about the unknown midnight move. Confused about her feelings. Glad he couldn't do maths. Aware that she was still fully dressed and in her fat suit. Loved. Hey that was surprising, loved. Suddenly he was back with steaming mugs of tea and bacon rolls. The delightful smell of the bacon roused her and made her mouth water. It was deliciously well cooked. She sat up and plumped the pillows behind her, feeling the mattress tilt slightly as he came to sit beside her. Their legs touched, and she realised she liked the feeling. He handed her a roll, and she picked up her mug of tea which he had put down on the table beside her. A gulp of tea cleaned, and her mouth watered as she bit into the luscious bacon in the soft roll. "Mmmm. Thanks. This is wonderful. How did you know?" "I saw the bacon in the fridge when I was finding the milk, and couldn't resist. How are you feeling?" She looked up at him and grinned. "Pampered. It's lovely." He whispered, "It's you that is lovely. Inside and out." A tear tracked its way down her cheek, and he reached over to wipe it away, kissing the top of her head. "I'm sorry. Too far too fast." "I'm just not used to it. It's the fact that you care." "Well, you have to be open to it, or you wouldn't have an emotional reaction. Thank you." He said gently. They finished their bacon rolls and tea in companionable silence, then she rested her head against him. He dropped a kiss on top of her hair and settled back against the pillows. After a few minutes in which they both visibly relaxed, Angel roused herself and looked up. "I'm going for a shower, but don't get any ideas." "My brain's not getting any ideas, but other bits of me are." He laughed. Angel blushed slightly and scooted out of the room. Jock absentmindedly took the mugs and plates to the kitchen and cleared up. Then he had a quick lick and a promise at the kitchen sink, straightened his clothes as best he could, and sat down to wait. It wasn't long before he heard Angel coming into the room behind him. When he turned, he gasped. She wasn't wearing the fat suit and looked so stunning in jeans and a spaghetti top that he was breathless. Angel was well aware of the impression she had made on him, and his awed "wow" made her smile. With some amazement, she realised she was happy being herself in front of this man. Again to her surprise she walked over and kissed him. His hands came up to cradle her face, and his kiss back was so reverent and gentle she felt goose bumps on her skin. When they finally came up for air, they were both panting a little and slightly dazed. He looked up regretfully into her eyes. "I'm really sorry, but I have to go. I need a shower, and I've got a practice I need to get to. Can I come back after the practice, or would you prefer that I came late evening?" "Can I go with you to your practice?" Jock's face lit up in obvious pleasure, and Angel was gratified to get that reaction. Then she panicked. She'd have to put her fat suit on, but she didn't want to. That was a first. He saw the panic in her eyes. "It's OK. You don't have to come. It was lovely that you asked, though." His reaction warmed her again. "I'll be OK. But I still need my protection from others." His hands caressed her cheeks and his lips touched hers. Suddenly he was being pulled into a hard embrace -- touching from thigh to breast -- and her lips were urgent on him. The feel of her slim body crushed against his was electric. His hands moved to run through her glorious curls and down her back to rest gently on her other cheeks. Their lips separated, panting for breath again, and the pleasure of her kisses on his neck made him twitch. She was giddy with his touch. Lost in his kisses. Revelling in the feel of his hands in her hair and on her ass. She could feel him hard against her and was elated as her kisses made him twitch. Reluctantly she broke her hold and stepped back. Giving him a quick kiss on the mouth, she whispered, "I need to get ready or I'll make you late." And she was gone. Leaving him breathless and dazed. He sat down to recover, resting his head against the back of the chair. Angel was back after what seemed like seconds. Her impish grin was a delight to see as she gave a twirl to show him the effect. She still had amazing dress sense, and looked good, even fat. Her hair shone in the light, and he grabbed a passing hand to pull her down into his lap and kiss her thoroughly. Angel grinned shyly up at him. "You like me fat as well as thin." It was a statement, not a question, and said in a wondering tone. "It would be more accurate to say that I love you fat as well as thin." He laughed. Angel's cheeks went pink. She ducked her head and whispered, "Thank you." The practice was amazing. She just sat there in a corner, gobsmacked. It wasn't really her type of music, but boy was it good. His mates were lovely too. Their admiration of her was obvious , but there was no innuendo, just plain straightforward conversation. He was discussing a difficult part with two of them. From the look of them, they must be twins, she thought. The third, John, came over to her. "I'm dying of curiosity! How ever did you get him to go out with you." Angel laughed. "I didn't. I did everything I could to turn him off. We just grew on each other." "So where did you meet him?" "He's in my maths class." "Maths! My God, he's always moaning about the maths. Makes him surly as a bear. He must have been as off putting to you as you were to him." Angel grinned. "Something like that." John started shifting and looking down. He was obviously unsure about something, embarrassed even. "Umm. I don't quite know how to say this." Angel looked at him in confusion. "You see ... Umm ... What I mean is ... He ... well he had a bad experience ..." Angel surprised herself by reaching out to touch John's arm. "He told me about it." John's look of surprise was comic. "He what?" He almost shouted, and was immediately bright red to the roots of his hair. The others looked over. In a much quieter voice, he went on, "I'm sorry. That was an appalling reaction. It's just I don't think he's looked at a girl since, and telling anyone apart from his closest friends is about as likely as snow in the Sahara." Angel was immeasurably cheered to know. She had guessed that to be the case, but it was a boost to her own sadly damaged morale to hear it confirmed. "You could say we are two of a kind." Had she really even hinted at her experience? Wow, what an effect Jock had had on her already. John was immediately sympathetic. "Please forgive me. I was going to warn you not to let him down. But you already understand. Did you enjoy the music?" She was grateful for the change of subject. "It was amazing. I've never really appreciated that kind of music. You seemed to do two very different types?" "Yes. The second set we practiced was much older music that the first. We like the more recent stuff, but the older music is stunning, both to play and to listen to." John grinned at her. "Do you play anything." "The fool." She came back so fast that a crack of laughter escaped him. "Hey, what's so funny?" Jock asked as he joined them. "Your girlfriend is lightening quick." "Bright as a button." Angel was pleased with the compliments, and struck by the fact that Jock's friends treated her like a real person. She also liked it that they were protective of him, and wished she had friends like that. For a brief moment her spirits dropped like a stone, remembering the two real friends she had had to leave behind. Jock squeezed her hand, ever sensitive to her mood. "Let's go get some food. We usually go to John's for grub after the practice. Will you come with us?" Angel smiled her thanks and nodded. The five of them went off together, laughing and chatting. Anthea giggled as Angel told her about the light in her bedroom. "I'm useless with practical things." She revealed. "I can't believe you were able to make it work." She poked Angel gently in the ribs. "I'm so glad it went wrong." Angel coloured, but grinned back. "He's a real sweetie." She realised she'd found a friend in John's wife Anthea. They were also perfect foils for each other. Angel tall, normally slight, with chestnut hair. Anthea petite, curvy and blonde. She was such fun. Anthea got up. "I need to go and dish up. Come through in a couple of minutes and help me carry." Angel got up too, and spent a few moments roaming round the room looking at the incredible paintings, drawings, sculptures, and admiring the wonderful way the room was furnished. She suddenly realised how clever Anthea had been. The chair she had been sitting in was old, threadbare and comfortable, but a strategic splash of colour in a throw, and contrasting cushions, made it look like it was from an expensive interior design shop. Angel felt a hand on her shoulder, and jumped, giving a squeak of alarm. The person stepped back to give her room, a courtesy she much appreciated. It was one of the twins. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you. My name's Jo." Her hand experienced a firm, dry handshake from a slim hand with long fingers, and she was aware of the long dark hair, elfin features, beautiful long neck and slim body. "Angel." Now why on earth had she introduced herself as that? She supposed it must be because Jo was Jock's friend. She decided it was a rather nice feeling to be known by a different name. It somehow mattered that it distanced the connection to her other self and the whole experience. "How did you get into playing like that?" Jo laughed. "A long story, starting with being made to play the piano, but getting better!" Angel grinned, then remembered that Anthea had asked her to help. "Sorry -- I need to go and help Anthea carry the food -- I promised a few minutes ago." "S'OK, I'll come and help too." They both walked through to the kitchen. "Hi, Jo, Angel. Here, take anything from the side there through, would you?" They both grabbed what they could carry and took it through to the table. "What's your work?" Angel enquired diffidently. "I'm doing graphic design. I met him through Anthea when she married John, a friend of his. In case you hadn't realised, she's arty too." Jo had answered her unspoken question. "We realised we all had music in common, and we started mucking about together. Then we did a charity gig in aid of the local homeless centre. Then we graduated to local halls, like our next one. It's fun." As they wandered back to the kitchen for more, Angel said over her shoulder, "It looked fun and sounded wonderful. Oh, Anthea, whatever that is it smells wonderful." Anthea gave her the oven gloves. "Jo, could you cut up that bread and take it in. Angel, can you call the others when that's on the table." When they were all seated, Jo's twin, whom she hadn't really met, said "Let's all hold hands." It felt a bit strange, but very friendly. "Thank you for good friends, companionship, interests in common, Angel, and this mouth watering food." They all chorused, "Thank you." Angel was blushing bright red, and Jo's twin gave her a wicked look. "This is my irrepressible twin, Steph. Steph, this is Angel. Out with it -- why did you do that to her?" Steph had the grace to look slightly sheepish, but stayed quiet. The others joined in pestering her. Finally she gave in and turned to Angel. "I'm sorry. That was mean of me. I was pleased for Jock, and I did want to welcome you, and ... um ... well you see ... I was jealous. I want someone to talk about me the way Jock was talking about you." She smiled at Angel. "Not very adult I'm afraid." Angel couldn't help smiling in return. She whispered back, "You don't know how lucky I am." Steph gave her a quizzical look, and tucked the response away to ask about privately later. The meal was fun, Angel reflected. The conversation was lively, ranging over so many subjects. She realised that whenever it was scientific, they all instinctively deferred to her after Jock had asked her to arbitrate in a discussion about moon landings. She felt Jock's gaze on her frequently, and was immeasurably comforted by it and Steph's words about him played at the back of her mind. "I had such fun." She told Jock as they walked back. "It felt so good sharing such good friends." A shadow of sadness crossed her face. "Why does fun and friends make you slightly sad?" "I couldn't help thinking of my best friends. They are twins too, and very similar to Jo and Steph." She twinkled mischievously up at him. "In fact I think I'm going to invite them over to stay. Oh." Angel stopped dead, a stunned look on her face. Jock put his arm around her. "What's up?" Angel looked up at him in amazement. "I've never felt able to contact any of my old friends. I just cut them off because I couldn't face anything, let alone them." She said in a wondering tone. Suddenly she reached up, flung her arms round him and kissed him so thoroughly he thought he might die of happiness and lack of oxygen. She drew back for a moment and laughed up into his face. She was stunning, and this happy she was heartstoppingly lovely. "Yes." It was a strong word, said with great conviction. "What do you mean, Yes?" She giggled and looked up at him under her lashes. "Yes please." "Angel, what do you mean ..." He gasped as the import of what she was saying burst on him. He picked her up and twirled her round and round. "Oh God. Oh God. I'm so happy." They were both giddy when Jock put her down, and they clung together kissing and laughing. Eventually making their way to Angel's place. As Angel let them in, Jock was saying excitedly, "We'll go out early tomorrow -- well, not too early," he grinned, "and buy a ring together." Angel smiled up at him, "I'd love to choose it with you. That will be a fun outing to look forward to." Later that night they went to bed together, Jock holding her in his arms until she was asleep. What could he do to prove the memory was there? Ah -- that would do it and be a great pleasure for him too. He grinned wickedly to himself and reached out to caress Angel's breast through her night clothes. As he had hoped, she woke up fairly quickly. "What are you doing?" "You tell me." "You were feeling me up." Angel said indignantly. "Ah, so you remember." Angel looked confused, then her face cleared. She pulled him into her arms and gave him a big kiss. "So you've proved your point. Thank you." She grinned wickedly at him. "You'll have to do it again to prove that my memory and my waking always works!" Jock could feel himself hardening at her words. He wondered if he could get away with skin contact. As they dropped off again, his mind was pleasurably engaged. When she was fully asleep, he moved his hand gently under her top and caressed her tight stomach. Once again, she woke fairly quickly. "You see, you wake up as soon as I start. And here was I hoping to get much further!" To his surprise, Angel laughed. "Shame. Now let's get some sleep." Later the next morning they went out an chose an engagement ring. It was fun going round the shops together, and he was proud to have her on his arm. He had another practice that afternoon. Angel quite wanted to watch and listen, but decided she wasn't ready yet to face them without her fat suit. Anyway she had an assignment she needed to get on with. When she opened the door to him her genuine smile of welcome rocked him to the core. She looked adorable with her hair messed and an ink smudge on her cheek. He reached out and smoothed his thumb over it. She stood on tiptoe and kissed him. Without them realising her arms snaked up around his neck and his closed round her back, and what started as a gentle brush became passionate as they clung to each other. When their lips separated, they were both breathing quickly and slightly flushed. "Wow." Jock whispered. "More than wow." Angel whispered back. They rested their foreheads together and smiled. He felt her fingers playing in the hair at the nape of his neck. His hands were gentle, making whorls on her back. They were both so relaxed in each other's company that it was quite shocking. Suddenly he realised something. "You're not wearing your fat suit." She grinned up at him with a slight lift of her eyebrows. "As you know, I don't wear it around the house. Apart from anything else, it's hot and slightly uncomfortable to wear. If I get caught out..." There was a wicked look in her eye, "...I just pretend to be a twin. But I knew it was you." He grinned back, and said seriously, "You know I like you in both guises." She looked wonderingly up at him, and said slowly. "Yes, I know. I can't quite believe it, but I know it's true." "But you're not wearing the fat suit to our wedding. I want our kids to know how beautiful their mother is." Once again tears streamed down her face. "Angel, I'm sorry. My big mouth." She was shaking her head, obviously wanting to speak but not quite able to through the tears. "I .... I ... don't know if I can have kids after ... what ... happened." Jock pulled her to him and cradled her in his arms. "Shhh. Sweetheart, it's you I love, and kids are a bonus, not a requirement. Listen, the guys are eating at John and Anthea's again, and asked us to join them. Do you want to? Or shall I ring and tell them we're not coming?" "You know what? I'd love to show them all my ring. Have you told them?" "Yes. They pried it out of me because I was so happy. Sorry." "Actually, I think that's easier for me." Angel said thoughtfully. "I'll go and tidy up." A few minutes later they left for John and Anthea's. On the walk, Angel asked how the practice had gone, and told him she'd finished her assignment. Anthea answered the door, and was so excited to see the ring. Suddenly she stopped dead. "Hang on a sec. You can't have discovered a diet that works that quickly! Explain what's going on." Angel looked embarrassed, but Jock took her hand and explained to Anthea that she'd been raped badly, and had been wearing a fat suit to protect herself and ward off unwanted attention. "Brilliant idea. But surely you wear it all the time?" "Well, I did until I met Jock." Angel blushed. "He's given me the confidence to take it off, and you are the first people I've trusted with the real me." She took Angel by the hand and practically dragged her in to see the others. "Guys, you have no idea. Angel is SO brave and we are the first to see her without her protection, and the first to see the ring." They all crowded round and exclaimed. There were kisses and hugs all round. John appeared with a tray of glasses and when everyone had one in their hand, he spoke, "I've been friends with Jock," He twinkled at them both, "for too many years. In turn, he has become friends with Anthea and these two reprobates." He indicated the twins. "We have comforted him in his misfortune and frequently, though not to him, bemoaned the fact that he was anti-female. So we were all delighted to meet Angel. Now Angel it seems also suffered misfortune and adopted a most ingenious protection in her industrial strength underwear..." Jocks & Cheerleaders Ch. 02 They all laughed, and Angel looked daggers at Jock, who smiled seraphically. "...namely a fat suit. We are really touched that she has chosen us to reveal her true, and if I may be allowed the licence on this very special occasion," He nodded briefly to Anthea, "most stunningly beautiful self. So please raise your glasses to Angel and Jock." They all drank and laughed together, while Anthea moved them seamlessly into another delicious meal. Angel found herself sitting next to Steph. "What did you mean when we first met about being so lucky?" "Sorry? Did I say that?" Angel was puzzled. Yes she was lucky, but what had she meant? "Yes. When I embarrassed myself and you by putting you in the grace. I'd confessed that I was jealous about the way Jock talked about you. And you responded, just to me, "You don't know how lucky I am." I've been wanting to ask you what you meant ever since." "Ah. Well I was raped, and had a huge fear of men after that. Hence the fat suit. But Jock somehow broke through. After what had been done to me, I was sure no one would ever want me again. But somehow Jock broke through. After wearing a fat suit and pretending I had a twin who was thin to explain when people saw me thin, I was convinced I was a living lie and no one would ever want to get close to me." "But somehow Jock broke through, right?" "Right. So you can see how lucky I think I am." Steph looked down as if considering a weighty problem. Suddenly, taking a big breath, she spoke very quietly, "I am not what you think I am either. That's partly why I'm jealous, and partly why your phrase stuck in my mind. You see although I look like a girl, I have a dick. Every relationship I have had has ended because of that, and I would so like someone to care for me as much as Jock cares for you." A tear slid down her cheek. "I've tried dating both men and women, but I think I'd like to be cared for by someone like you. By the way, Jo is identical to me in every respect but that. She's a girl." "Hey. You're a lovely person. I'm sure you'll find someone." Angel was flattered by the confidence and by her declaration. Unbidden, she thought of her twin friends again, and determined to ask them for the concert. It was the night of the concert. Angel had invited the twins to stay, and had bought them all tickets. She'd explained that the music was unusual, but that they'd probably enjoy it. The main reason for them coming was to meet Jock and his friends. The twins were delighted to be back in contact. They'd known what had happened, and that Angel had moved away, but had not known where. Jock had immediately seen that Angel's twins were similar to Jo and Steph. He thought there might just be fireworks when they met. They were both tall, slim with fine blonde hair. Nicole wore her hair loose, and it framed her delicate face. Both twins had piercing blue eyes and ready smiles. Dick's hair was the same length as Nicole's, but worn in a pony tail hanging down his back almost to his waist. It was something of a surprise to all who met him that it made him look more of a man. During the concert, Nicole and Dick sat either side of Angel, entwined in an arm each side as if they never wanted to let go. Angel felt so supported and loved, protected and comfortable. She noticed that, like her, the twins were spellbound by the music. Unfortunately Anthea had been unable to come, as a valuable commission had to be finished off and delivered. But she'd promised that there would still be a meal for them all afterwards. Angel had agreed with Jock and the others that she and the twins would go straight from the concert to Anthea's to help finish off the meal. John, Jock, Jo and Steph would follow after the usual conversations with the excited audience and the inevitable clearing up. As they walked, they discussed the music and the wonder of seeing it performed live. Angel noticed that "her" twins asked slightly more questions about "Jock's"twins while trying to appear disinterested. She was delighted, but was really unable to help much, as she'd only known them such a short time. Later while laying the table, Angel found herself with Nicole while Dick was helping Anthea in the kitchen. "Nicole." Nicole looked up with a question face. "I don't know how to ask without upsetting you." Nicole came round the table and gave Angel a hug. "Ask away. I might not want to answer, but I won't be upset!" "You seemed to be,uh, sort of, interested in Steph and Jo." Nicole laughed. "Were we that obvious? Yes, I think both Dick and I were interested. Why?" "Well, I think Steph might suit you." "What, more than Jo? They both look identical." "Just don't ask. But please be gentle with her." "You know something." It was a statement, not a question. "You could say that I have a certain sympathy with her. She's been hurt loads of times." To her surprise, Nicole found herself getting very hot under the collar and angry. "Tell me who did it and I'll stamp my best stilettos through their foot." It was said with some passion. "Wow, I'm obviously more hooked than I thought." Nicole mused. Angel was quick to jump in. "She's not been hurt physically, just dumped too many times by people she thought cared about her. "Bloody hell, Angel. Why? She seems really nice. How could they?" "Hey, steady on, Nicole. I'm sorry, I can't tell you why, just as you have to let me tell my story." "Ok. Ok. I'll make sure I'm not another one like that." "Please don't say that I hinted. You've got to let her confide In you when she's ready. That's why Jock and I made it. He sensed that there was something, but just said he'd be glad to listen when I was ready." "Hey. We were both so thrilled to hear that you are dating again." Wordlessly Angel lifted her hand. Nicole was gob smacked. "You're engaged! Way to go." She grabbed Angel in a crushing bear hug and swung her round. "Hey, we've got to go and tell Dick." She stopped. "Does he need to know anything?" "Not if he goes for Jo." Angel smiled. "Thanks for not blowing me off." "Come on. You've got to be cooed over!" Nicole dragged her towards the kitchen. Dick had just put her down from another crushing hug when the players came through the door laughing. Angel noticed that Nicole and Dick were struck dumb. She had to admit that the two laughing brunettes were striking. She also noticed with some amusement, that both sets of twins seemed to know instinctively which were their match pairs. Soon Dick was chatting animatedly to Jo, and Steph and Nicole had their heads together. Angel resolved to speak to Steph and reassure her that Nicole would be gentle with her. Angel wasn't to know, but she also looked striking after emerging slightly ruffled and laughing from Dicks hug. Jock immediately gravitated to her side, took her face in his hands and gave her a gentle kiss. "You look gorgeous. More than that. Alluringly beautiful and happy." Angel felt her slight blush, and grinned happily at him. "And you too." Jock touched her hand and smiled into her eyes. "John, can you go and get whatever we're going to drink. Angel, can you take the juice and stuff in from the fridge. Jock, help me in with the starters, please." Anthea was in dishing up mode. But Angel noticed that she'd carefully organised for them all to leave the kitchen on legitimate errands to give the two sets of twins a bit of time alone. She mentally blessed her sensitivity, and bustled about helping to get the starters away. When they'd set everything up in the dining room, Anthea gently commanded again: "Right, let's have a before dinner drink, and you can catch me up on the concert." "And you can tell us about your rich patron!" John grinned at her. When they'd dissected the concert and heard about Anthea's good fortune in being commissioned again because her patron had liked her first work so much, Angel set off to get the twins from the kitchen. She hoped so much that they were going to get together, but realised that it might not happen. Opening the kitchen door, she was greeted by slightly flushed faces and entwined hands. She laughed her relief. "I was so hoping you four would make it together. I am so pleased for you." "Hey, it's early days yet, but it's a good start." Steph cautioned. "Come on, we're all going to eat." Angel led the way into the dining room, calling out for the others to join them. Angel found herself sitting between Jock and Steph. Predictably, Nicole was the other side of her, and Jo and Dick were sitting together too. In a moment when all the others were talking and Steph was not involved, Angel leant over: "I know Nicole will be gentle with you, Steph." She whispered with a serious look on her face. Steph was grateful. "Thanks. I can see she's kind as well as fun." They smiled at each other. Nicole noticed the shared smile, and felt a prick of envy. Then she thought, "How can I be envious. I know that Angel is engaged, and that she has my best interests at heart." Then she realised again that her anger at Steph's hurt and this prick of jealousy just showed how much she'd come to care about Steph in the short time they'd known each other. Nicole took Steph's hand and looked serious. "Steph, I find I really care about you and about us." She whispered. Steph looked afraid, which wasn't the reaction she's expected. "I'm so sorry. What have I said?" Steph whispered back, "It's not you. I'm just afraid that you won't like me once you know me better, and I couldn't bear it." A single tear tracked down her cheek. Nicole squeezed her hand. "I don't think so. Can you tell me what makes you so sure?" Steph grinned briefly at the thought of telling her in front of all their friends. "Not now. Later, please." "It's a promise." Not long after dinner, Angel noticed that Nicole and Steph were missing. She hoped and prayed that the outcome was good for them both. She was overjoyed when two slightly dishevelled grinning girls came into the room. Steph made a B line for Angel. "She loves me! Oh God Angel, I can't tell you how lucky I feel now." Angel grinned. "As lucky as me, then?" Steph laughed. "Now I know why you said that." On the way home, Jock and Dick were chatting, giving Nicole a chance to talk quietly to Angel. "She's just what I always hoped for, but more so. I could never feel comfortable with boys, but I loved the way they were built. Now I've found a girl with a dick. It's magic. But the best thing is that she likes me too." Bubbled Nicole. Angel just hugged her. "I'm so pleased for both of you." At Angel's door, Jock made to leave for his house. "Where do you think you're going?" Angel quizzed. "Home to bed." "You're right about home to bed, but that means here, not at your house." Angel smiled at him. Jock was hard. "Wow." "Hopefully more than wow." Angel cracked back. And it was. Jock couldn't believe how wow it was to sleep with a soul mate. It was obvious that his previous experience had been with girls who were not fully committed. But it wasn't just that. The electricity between them was searingly beautiful. A simple touch produced a mind blowing arousal. Actually joining made them both groan with pleasure, their breath hissing, their bodies shaking, until they both cried out in ecstasy. When Jo and Steph went off to visit their parents, Nicole and Dick were a little down for a few days. One day that week, Nicole and Angel were having coffee. They found themselves discussing the subject uppermost in their minds, the loves of their lives. They both confessed that it was indescribable. For both of them having their partner inside was such a turn on. Angel felt brave enough to ask: "Just how big is Steph?" "Well, she's about the same height as me, and the same weight, I think." "Um, I mean, how big is she?" She blushed. Nicole laughed. "It feels huge to me and fills me up beautifully. But then I've always been very tight. So spill, how big is Jock?" Angel blushed again. "Same thought. It feels huge to me and I feel ecstatically full. I wonder how they compare?" They giggled. "Well, Steph is about six or seven inches, and smaller than my wrist." "Wow. Your wrist sized! Show me." Angel took Nicole's hand and clasped her wrist. "Look, my finger and thumb don't meet. That must be about the same as Jock. He's about the same length too." "So we both have the same luck. Ideal sizes for us, which just happen to be the same." Nicole looked thoughtful. "You know, I am so lucky. I've go the best of all worlds:" She ticked off on her fingers, "A girl who loves me; A girl with a dick; Someone I love; Someone who fills me up; Someone to care for me, and for me to care for them. I never thought I would find it. Like you before Jock." Angel's eyes filled. "I am so happy for you ... and for me."