6 comments/ 10313 views/ 21 favorites Mark and Geri By: IntrospectiveWanderer Mark met Geri at the trailhead parking lot just after dawn. It was their plan to hike into the mountains the Lake Genevieve and back. Figuring that one-way was just over 5 miles, an early start should get them back to the trailhead by midafternoon. The pair had been hiking partners for a couple of years now and they both knew their pace on the trail. One that was slower than most, but one that allowed them to capture some incredible wildlife. Mark had met Geri at a wildlife seminar that was provided by the county. She was one of the instructors. Mark's wife left him a couple of years prior after 18 years of marriage. It had started off well, going to the same college and sharing an apartment for a couple of years before they tied the knot. But, like many couples, their interests grew in separate directions over time. The divorce ended the relationship quite amicably. They were still friends that got together every now and then. He listened with intense interest as Geri gave her portion of the seminar. It was obvious that she was very knowledgeable on the local fauna. She was also funny as she related stories about experiences she had on the trails with nature and the people she encountered. Mark sought her out after the seminar was over. He waited patiently off to the side as she was surrounded by attendee's asking her questions. He finally stepped up when the last one started to leave. "Hi, I'm Mark" offering his hand. Taking it, "I'm Geri." "I was really captivated by your demonstration." "Thank you" she replied, a little cautious. She had recently broken up a long relationship and wasn't ready to get involved with another. That combined with the fact that often was hit on, which she grew tired of. "You mentioned something about trail monitors" Mark asked, genuinely interested in the county program that hired volunteers to hike the trails and monitor them. "Yes, I did. We have a program that has citizen's go out on the trails. They let us know of any maintenance needs, helps visitors with any questions they might have, and even guide groups now and then. Is this something that interests you?" Geri asked, noting that Mark's eyes never left hers. 'A good sign, maybe he's not after something else like so many others'. "I am, actually. I recall seeing something in the paper a year ago or so and forgot all about it until you mentioned it this afternoon." Turning around to grab a pamphlet off the table behind her, she handed it to him, "We've got an orientation session a week from tomorrow at the Natural Resources office in the county building. If you're still interested, come over and you can learn a little more about the program." Mark took the information sheet and looked it over. He had enjoyed the hiking trails that permeated the foothills and mountains of Colorado, just miles from what he called home. Here was an opportunity to give a little back to the county and learn a little in the process. Looking at her, he paused for a moment as he saw her smile and was captured by how her hair framed her face. "I'll be there," extending his hand once again. "See you there, then" Geri replied shaking his hand. Mark arrived at the county building on the night of the orientation anxious to not only learn more about the program, but hopeful that Geri would be there again. He wasn't disappointed. He stepped into a large room filled with chairs, a projection screen with images from the local area going by. He spotted Geri off to the side and was about to go over to her when he saw her wrap her arm into the arm of the man standing next to her and was laughing at something being said. 'Get a grip. Someone like that is happily married. You're here to learn about the program. Not her.' The presentation lasted just under an hour with a question and answer session afterwards. Unless he found out something earth shattering that would change his mind, he had already decided to sign up and go through the 80 hours of training. He was making his way towards the exit when he felt someone come up beside him. "Hi, I remember you, you were at the wildlife seminar." Mark smiled, "I was. Mark, and you're Geri. I remember." Geri smiled and put her hands on her hips, "So, did you sign up? I seem to remember that you were quite interested when we talked last." Waving the new member handout, "I did. I think this is going to be a lot of fun. I think I've been on most of the trails and really love it." "That's good to hear. It's been difficult finding people who want to go through all of the training that's required. But we're placing a lot of responsibility on them and we don't want them to fail." "Oh, I'm not terribly worried about that." With a renewed smile, "Good! So we'll see you in two weeks then." Waving his packet of material, "Two weeks." * Mark was halfway through the training and hadn't seen Geri since the orientation night. She occupied his thoughts frequently since he first met her. She appeared to be about the same age as him, perhaps a little younger. He wasn't sure. She was about the same height. But it was her radiant smile and her personality that he found the most attractive. Her figure indicated that she did in fact spend a lot of time on the trails. He had hoped to meet up with her again. He was looking at the material for tonight's training session when he heard her. "Good evening, everyone. I'm glad to see that just about everyone has made it. We're going to get started in just a couple of minutes. As always, please help yourself to the coffee, tea, juice and snacks we have in the back of the room." Mark was secretly happy that she would be the one teaching tonight. She was obviously involved with someone else, but he still enjoyed listening to her speak as well as watching her. Once class started, however, Mark became engrossed in the topic of the night's class. It was about the snakes of the area including the prairie rattlesnake, their habitat, their behavior and especially what to do to keep visitors to the area safe. He had a deep respect for the creature and actually looked forward to encountering one in the wild. It was during a break that he spotted Geri pouring a cup of juice. Going up to her, "So, those photographs, did you take those?" "I did" she replied as she put the lid back on the juice bottle. Turning to him, "They are some of the most misunderstood animals we have here. If you look at them, they really are beautiful creatures." Nodding his head in agreement, "I couldn't agree more. But those photos are pretty close up." Taking a sip of her juice, "Not really. Remember the safety distance we talked about?" Mark nodded, recalling strike distances and the fact that the local species is very timid as well. "Well, that along with a decent telephoto lens can make for some very nice pictures." "That makes sense. They are pretty awesome, just the same." With a slight cock of her head and a smile, "Thanks." Mark could feel his heart skip a beat as she looked at him. He didn't know much of anything about her but he was enthralled by her. She was smart, talented, and witty. And she captured his attention completely. It was during the last week of training before Mark saw Geri again. The last 4 hours of training involved going out on the trails with an experienced trail monitor. An assistant was handing out sheets of paper while the presenter was explaining the last part. "Andy is handing out the assignments for the hikes. Take a look at it and find who your partner is. Please make sure that you get with them before you leave this evening and schedule a time for your hike. Are there any questions?" A couple of people raised their hand and asked questions. Mark looked at the sheet and had to keep from bursting out. He was paired with Geri. Once class had ended for the evening, Mark looked around to find her. He waited and watched as she spoke with another trainee. He observed how patient she was as the trainee was not one of the sharpest students in the class. In fact, he was surprised they had lasted this long. Walking up to her after she had finished, he waved the piece of paper, "It looks like I'm assigned to you." Geri turned and smiled, "I know. I had them pair you up with me." Mark looked at her with a questioning look. He was thrilled to be paired with her. She had occupied his thoughts increasingly over time. "You seem to have some of the same interests as I do and you seem to be genuinely interested, more than some of these others," she commented, looking over her shoulder at some of the other students who she thought wouldn't see more than the first 500 yards of any trail. "Well, thank you. I appreciate that." "So when do you want to go?" They set a date and a trail to hike. One of the lessons that the class taught was that it was always best to hike with a partner, never hike alone. Mark and Geri became hiking partners and over the next several months would often be found spending the weekend on a trail. The winter didn't stop them as there were still die-hards who hiked year round and the trails needed to be kept in good shape. During all this time, Mark never made an advance, suggestive comment, or anything other than two people hiking together. That's not to say that there weren't a number of times that he looked at her mouth and wanted nothing more than to wrap his arms around her and place his lips on hers. * He was arranging the stuff he was going to carry in his pack when he heard a car pull up. It never failed to bring a great feeling of joy to see her. Slinging his day pack over his shoulders, he strode over to where she had parked. She had her feet on the rear bumper putting her hiking boots on. "Morning, Geri." "Hey, Mark" she replied, turning her head to face him, her eyes sparkling and that radiant smile beaming at him. "Looks like it's going to be a great day for a hike." "It does. I checked the weather and it's supposed to be mostly clear all day." Looking around the parking lot, "It doesn't look like there's that many people here today. I'm surprised." He nodded in agreement, "I'm surprised as well." Putting her own pack on and securing the waist belt, she looked at him, "Ready?" Smiling in return, "Ready." A couple of miles into the hike, the pair found an outcropping to sit and rest on for a few moments. It was a spot they had stopped at many times before. As was typical for Geri, she was wearing a pair of shorts that came half-way down her thigh, maybe a little more. A dark spot had formed on her shirt from the sweat that had formed on her chest, neck and back. Mark had similar dark spots on his shirt as well. Mark looked at her as she tilted her head back to smooth back her hair and tie it up in a ponytail. He glanced at her legs and looked for an extra moment at the inside of her thigh. He had long admired her legs and on more than one occasion, wanted to be able to run his hand on them, to feel the softness of her skin. She looked at him and smiled as she wiped the beads off of her face with a towel. "It's warm out here. I brought extra water, just in case. You?" Mark had two water bottles within reach, nestled in side pockets on his pack "Yep, got these two like I always do plus I packed an extra one inside." "Good, we may need it today." Placing her hands on her knees, she stood and asked, "Ready?" Standing "Lead the way m'lady." He never minded her leading the way when the trail was only wide enough for one person, which was most of the time. Her rear end was always pleasing to his eye. They reached the lake just before noon. They had made this hike a few times before and each time they were the only ones there. Lake Genevieve was a natural lake feed by the runoff from the nearby Rockies. As such, it was typically extremely cold. Just the same, it felt good on their feet as they sat on a rock and dangled their feet in the water. Eating the lunches they packed, Mark heard Geri sigh a little, "I could never tire of this place. It's just so beautiful." "It is," Mark said in agreement. "It's so quiet. The only noise is the brook over there and the birds." Suddenly he felt Geri's arm wrap around his shoulder and she pulled him closer, pointing with the other hand, Geri pointed to a bear and two cubs on the other side of the lake. "Look, over there," she cried out in an excited whisper. Mark looked across to see the trio drinking from the lake, looking up periodically for danger around them. But he was also absorbed in the feeling of Geri's arm around him. He wanted more than anything to wrap his around her. They watched for a few more moments before the bears sauntered off back into the trees. Geri unwrapped her arm and resumed eating her lunch. They sat there for a while longer, taking in their surroundings. Geri reached over and using her fingertips, ran her fingers up and down his arm. "Can I ask you a question?" Geri asked. Turning to face her, "Of course." "Why haven't you ever asked me out?" she asked, looking at him with a slight smile. "I know that you are frequently sneaking peaks at me." Mark was at a loss for words and it took him a moment, "I, uh, I don't know. I figured that you were already in a relationship. And well, I don't know, I guess I figured you wouldn't be interested." "You mean Pete?" Geri replied, smiling even more. "Pete's my cousin. He and I have been close since we were kids." Mark was dumbfounded. He had watched Geri and Pete together and listened to the stories that she told of the two of them. Nowhere, however, did she ever indicate that he was a cousin. "I know that you're not seeing anyone." Mark looked at Geri, his heart racing, she wanted to go on a date with him. 'Jeez, I'm 40 something and I'm acting like a teenager on his first time with a girl'. "Well, I can't say as I haven't wanted to." "So." He looked at her eyes and saw a little sparkle which was accented by her smile. "How about tomorrow. After work." "That's more like it" Geri replied, "I accept" and gave him that smile. She looked at her watch, "We should probably start heading back." They returned to the parking lot right about the time they anticipated. Geri changed out of her hiking boots and put those along with her pack in the back of the car. Mark followed her as she got into the driver's seat, started the car and rolled down the window. Mark closed the door for her. "Thanks for the hike today." "My pleasure" he replied. And it truly was. He had been in love with this woman for several months now but had never acted on it. He was, by nature, shy and reserved. But now, he was going to see Geri someplace other than a trail or classroom. He looked at her, "I'll pick you up at seven. That okay?" With her hands on top of the steering wheel, she smiled again, "I look forward to it." * Mark stared at the papers on his desk. Despite his best efforts, his mind was on that evening. Looking at the clock, he noted that it was just after 3. '4 more hours' he thought. With renewed effort, he dug in and worked on the spreadsheet on his screen. After what seemed like a half hour or more, he looked at his watch again. Only 10 minutes had passed. But time does march on and 5 o'clock did arrive. His commute home was short and now he found himself fidgeting around the house. Freshly showered and dressed, he climbed into his car and drove to where Geri lived. He had dropped her off a couple of times after hikes when her car was in the shop. So he was fully aware of her address. Not wanting to appear too anxious and noting that he was 10 minutes early, he pulled to the side of the curb a block away and waited. Ringing her doorbell precisely at 7, he waited as he heard footsteps inside. The door opened and he saw Geri for the first time dressed in something other than hiking gear. Geri had a natural beauty that didn't require a lot of makeup and tonight was no exception. She wore a simple summer dress that came down to her knees. Her feet were encased in sandals. A simple necklace dropped just below the collarbone and accentuated her skin. The same radiant smile that captivated him when he first saw her captivated him again. "Wow" was the first words that he spoke. Pulling at the sides of her dress just a little, "You like?" as she stepped aside to let him into the house. "You're beautiful." "Why thank you, kind sir." Mark watched as she went to the dining table and picked up a purse. He looked at the back of her legs as she leaned over to grab her coat off the table. His eyes returned to her eyes as she turned and smiled. "So, where are we going?" Geri asked. "Well, you said you like Italian, so I thought we'd go over to Gepetto's." "Ooh, I love that place." He had also been there a number of times. He requested one of the more secluded booths when he made the reservations the day before. He didn't want to share her with anyone. Mark looked at Geri across the table. She had a slight smile and her head was slightly cocked to the side. They had been on a lot of hikes together and he always thought she was a very good looking woman, but never in this type of setting. He thought she was more beautiful tonight than he had ever seen her. They listened to each other as they shared more about their backgrounds, fascinated that there were so many parallels. Geri, like Mark, had been married before. But the husband was not captivated by the out of doors. He would rather spend his time in his shop working on his cars. She didn't know what she saw in him and chalked it up to being young and foolish. Hand in hand, the couple left the restaurant and always the gentleman opened the door for her. Slowly making their way back to his car, Mark was not ready for the night to end, "How about a walk along the beach at the lake?" It was not really a lake as much as it was a reservoir. But there was a long stretch along the shore that was deemed a beach as it was very sandy and was a favorite spot for the locals when the weather was hot. Geri looked up at the moon, which was clearly full "I'd like that." She wasn't anxious for the night to end either. She had wanted to see Mark on a more social basis for a long time as she had developed strong feelings for him after spending hours on the trails together over the months. She wasn't about to let him go, not just yet. Pulling into the lot, there were a couple of other cars. Obviously others had a similar idea as they. It was rumored that it was a hot spot for dates and had a number of nicknames as it had the reputation for being a place where a lot of virginities were lost. Mark parked and got out. Going around to her side of the car, he opened the door and looked at her as she stepped out. Her dress rode up on her legs just a little. She exposed more of her leg wearing her hiking shorts, but the sight of her dress sliding up caused him to catch his breath. He hoped that she didn't notice. He did not want to ruin the night. Taking her hand in his, he could feel her squeeze it slightly. They walked down the short path to the water's edge. The moon was almost full and created a stream of light across the still waters of the lake. The silence was broken when Geri asked in a quiet voice, "Why didn't you ask me out before?" Mark thought for a moment. It wasn't that he didn't want to. In fact, he envisioned being with her on a number of occasions. "I don't know. It's like I told you before, I thought you were involved with someone else." "Yeah, you said that before." "You had also become one of my best friends. I was afraid if I asked and it wasn't something that you had any interest in, that it would ruin that." She nodded as she thought about what he was saying. There were a few moments of silence as they continued to walk along the beach. "I tried to give you signs that I was interested in you." Mark and Geri "You did?" Mark knew that he wasn't the most observant person when it came to members of the opposite sex. "Yeah. I tried to drop hints here and there. But you just weren't picking up on them. So I decided I needed to come right out and ask". She turned her head to look at him and smile, to let him know that she was glad to be with him. "I was afraid that if I didn't that you never would and, well, I'd never know." Mark tried to think of things she might have said or things she might have done. He did recall a few comments that she made and he passed off as his imagination. He also remembered touches here and there that he thought were incidental at the time, not realizing that there was more to them. Stopping, he turned to look at Geri. He could feel his heart racing as he gently nudged her closer and placed his lips on hers. Wary that he might be making an unwanted advance, he rejoiced as he felt her arms wrap around his neck as she stepped even closer to him. He continued to engage his lips with hers and could feel her tongue touch his lips. He reciprocated by touching his tongue to hers. He ran his hands up and down her back, savoring the feeling of her in his arms. "That was nice" Geri whispered as they looked at each other. Mark smiled as he closed his eyes as he kissed her more. The months of secretly wanting to be with each other in something more than hiking partners came flowing out and instead of the slow buildup of passion in a new couple, theirs came out in a flood of suddenly released emotions. The couple worked their way back to his car, arms wrapped around each other. Each lost in their own thoughts. Mark felt a level of joy that he hadn't felt in years. He wanted so much to tell her that he loves her and has been in love with her for a long time. But his timidity told him to hold off, at least for now. Pulling up in front of her house, he sat for a moment and looked at her, still not quite believing that he was actually on a date with this woman. Getting out, he once again opened the car door for her and held her hand as they made their way to the front door. Mark wrapped her in his arms to give her a goodnight kiss. Mark wasn't really ready for the evening to end, but he didn't want to push his luck. "I had a wonderful time, Geri. I wish I had picked up on the signs earlier. I've wasted all this time." Smiling, "It's okay. Although I was ready to give up and assume you had not interest." She said with a smirk. "Can I see you again?" he asked, hopeful that there would be future dates but didn't want to assume anything. "You'd better!" she replied as she raised her eyebrows at him. She looked at him for a second or two and said, "Why don't you come in. You don't have to leave yet. If you don't want to." "I'd like that." Geri unlocked the door, turned her head and smiled at Mark as she stepped inside. Mark followed and waited for a second as Geri closed the door behind him. It had been a long time since he was on a date. As much as he wanted this woman, he wanted to be a proper gentleman and keep the possibility of future dates. Feeling very self-conscious, he looked around the living room noting a number of wildlife photos. Some of which he recognized from the training classes. He walked up to one that had a baby bear in it. He thought he recognized the location when Geri commented, "I took that one up the Horizon trail several years ago. I was a little afraid as I figured mama wasn't too far away." Mark turned to see Geri sitting on the sofa, one leg crossed over the other and her arm stretched across the back. "It's a pretty amazing picture. Mama never showed up?" Shaking her head, "I didn't stick around long enough to find out." Mark sat down beside her and twisted to face her. Reaching up with his hand, he cupped the side of her face and leaned over to kiss her. After another lovely kiss, he felt her hand on his thigh as she whispered in his ear, "I have eggs for breakfast, if you'd like to stay." His heart was beating as fast as he's experienced in a long time. He could feel his groin tighten at the invitation to spend the night. He gingerly reached out and touched the side of her breast. His fears about rejection were eased as he felt her hand move higher up his thigh. He engaged his lips with hers once again, his tongue darting out and touching her lip. He moved his hand that his thumb was able to rub the top of her bra where her nipple would be. He felt Geri pull away. His penis grew harder as she said softly in his ear, "Let's go someplace a little more comfortable." Mark followed her to her bedroom. Before she turned around to face him, he reached out and gently pulled down the zipper on the back of her dress. Placing his hands under the material at the top of her shoulders, he slowly slid the garment off her and leaned in to kiss her on the neck. She remained still, her head tilted back as he reached down and unclasped the hooks holding her bra in place. Sliding that off her shoulders as well, he reached around and cupped her breasts in his hand, flicking the nipples with his thumb. He could feel her breathing change as he caressed her. He estimated that they were either a large 'A' or 'B' size. What he noticed the most was that the nipples seemed to be very sensitive as he could feel her shiver as he ran his fingers over them. Slowly she turned around and started to unbutton his shirt. Mark stood as she took his shirt off and rubbed his chest with her hands. Lowering herself, she looked up as she undid the button to his trousers and pulled the zipper down. He was as hard as his pants would allow. Such that when she drew his pants and underwear down, it was a feeling of relief. And worry. It had been a long time since he had been with a woman. The last few years of his marriage had been a sexless relationship. There was concern on his part that he'd be able to please her. He continued to watch as she grasped the base of his erection and took him into her mouth. The sensation of her tongue as it rubbed the head of his penis sent shivers throughout his body. His eyes closed as a warm feeling began to envelope him. Not wanting to come quite yet, he tugged at her arms to indicate that he wanted her to stand up. He forced the dress around her hips and let it drop to the floor. Clad only in panties, he laid her back on the bed and lay down beside her. "You are incredibly beautiful, Geri" Mark said as he caressed her breasts and chest. Geri was very self-conscious about her appearance, "I don't have much on top." "Shh, they're perfect. There's nothing to be ashamed of" he noted as he took one of her nipples between his lips and slowly drew it into his mouth. He slowly made his way down across her abdomen, leaving a trail of kisses in his wake. He was happy that he was doing something right as he felt her stomach quiver the closer he got to the juncture of her legs. "Ohhh" escaped her lips as his tongue reached the crease at the top of her hip. Leaving her panties on for the moment, he kissed the the wet spot that had formed there and clung to her labia as he moved to the other hip. Her hips rose a little in anticipation. Spreading her legs apart just a little, he worked his lips down the inside of her thighs, the same area that he has seen so many times before and could only dream about doing what he was doing now. Feeling her quiver under his touch, he reached up with both hands and tucked his fingers into the side of her panties and slowly drew them down. Her vulva was engorged with blood and stuck out just a little from the tufts of hair that covered her pubic area. He was pleased to see that she didn't shave herself totally, just trimmed up enough and shaved in the right places. Pulling her lips gently apart, he was able to see the pink flesh hidden by her lips, her clitoral hood covering her most sensitive spot. Reaching in with his tongue, he gently licked the stretch of skin between her vagina and her clitoris. With one hand caressing a breast, he could feel her chest rise and she took in a large gulp of air. It had been a while, but he concluded it was like riding a bike. By paying attention to her reactions as his tongue probed and touched different parts, he was sure that the intensity of the feelings she was experiencing were increasing. Using two of his fingers, he gently probed the inside of her tunnel. It was incredibly wet as he rotated his fingers, locating the rough spot on the top of her vagina. Her hips started rising and falling off of the mattress and she tugged on his hair, pulling him in tighter. With a cry of "oooooh" and a torrent of liquid streaming out of her, some into his mouth and some hitting his chin. Mark rejoiced in the knowledge that he was able to bring her to an orgasm. It also made him a little harder knowing that he would soon be inside that very same tunnel. She lay there, breathing rapidly as her orgasm slowly died down. Mark rested his head on her thigh and gently massaged her labia with his fingers. He would periodically just touch her clitoris which would cause her hips to jump and for her take a sudden breath of air. He smiled to himself; it gave him a warm feeling. Feeling her attempt to pull him up, he crawled up so that he was able to give her a deep and passionate kiss. "Mmm, I've never tasted myself before. It's strange." Mark smiled "I think you taste pretty good." Geri smiled as she reached down and positioned his erection at her entrance. . "Protection?"Mark asked. He realized that he probably should have thought about this sooner. But he hadn't anticipated making love to Geri. At least not tonight. "Shh, it's okay. You said the last woman you were with was your ex-wife and that's been several years. I'm protected. Besides, I want to feel your naked cock inside me." Mark looked at her funny for a second as he had never heard Geri use any word that wasn't 'proper' let alone cuss. He looked into her eyes as he pressed forward, little by little, until he was fully embedded inside her. Her vagina wrapped around his penis as if it was made just for him. Mark slowly moved his penis in and out of her, never taking his eyes off of her. He wanted this feeling to last forever. His pace quicken a little until he felt the familiar sensation building inside him, indicating that he was close to coming. He stopped several times as he felt he was about to come. He'd wait until it died down before continuing his strokes He reached a point where he couldn't do it anymore and it felt like his cock grew just a little more. "Come for me, dear. Come" she instructed him, her eyes looking deep into his. Feeling like his cock grew and little bit more, he clenched his teeth and emitted a little grunt as his come raced up his shaft and into her womb. Although coming inside a woman was not something new for him, coming inside Geri was an intense feeling physically and emotionally. For him it was not only a physical release but an intense emotional experience as this was someone that he was deeply in love with. He watched as she slowly closed her eyes and a smile formed on her face. Her arms wrapped around his neck as the last of his semen left him. Spent, he tried to avoid collapsing on her, afraid that he would crush her. But she locked her ankles around his waist and drew him in tighter. The words were out of his mouth before he realized it, "I love you." It was a feeling that he had for her long before tonight. He had fallen in love with her some time ago but never figured that he would have the opportunity to tell her how he really felt. Her eyes opened and Mark was momentarily afraid that he had ruined everything. But the smile never left her face as she replied, "And I love you." They lay there several minutes as Mark kissed her forehead and ran his fingers through her hair. His penis softened and eventually slipped out of her, the sheets becoming wet from their combined come. Rolling off of her, he cradled her in his arms, her head on his chest. Very few words were spoken as they were each lost in their own thoughts. The both knew that their relationship had changed and each hoped that the other was happy. Geri's hand made its way to his crotch and she started to slowly caress his penis, periodically cupping his balls. It took a few minutes of her massaging for him to respond and become fully erect. Getting up just a little, Geri straddled his hips and rubbed the head of his penis up and down her slit before finally letting it slide all the way into her. Mark watched as she not only moved up and down his shaft, but back and forth so that her clitoris would rub along his pubic bone. She seemed to know when he was close to blowing and stopped so that he would calm down just a little, allowing her orgasm to build. While it wasn't a simultaneous orgasm, they both came within moments of each other. Neither had experienced anything quite so exhilarating. * Mark woke up just as the sun started to come into the bedroom window. It was a moment before he realized that he wasn't in his own bed or his own room. He looked over to see the woman that he had been, up to recently, secretly in love with. Now it was not a secret and she told him that she loved him too. Mark was not typically a very emotional person, but he could feel a joy and love in his heart that he hadn't felt in a long time. He was feeling like he was on a high, he never wanted to leave this woman. He slowly eased out of bed so as not to disturb Geri. Looking at her as she lay there, he thought that she still looked beautiful. The sheets were drawn up around her shoulders and her hair was draped across the top of her forehead and across her cheek. It almost brought tears to his eyes thinking about her, last night, and his hope for the future. He was as happy as he recalled being in many years. Having found a washcloth and a towel, Mark cleaned himself up. He didn't quite feel at liberty enough to make himself further at home. But he did want to get the residue from last night's lovemaking off of him. He sat in the living room reading a magazine that was on the coffee table when he heard rustling in the bedroom room, followed by the closing of what he assumed was the bathroom door. Having located what he needed in the kitchen earlier, he stood up and started making the eggs that she mentioned she had for breakfast. Slowing scrapping the spatula across the pan of scrambled eggs, he heard a "Hey" behind him. Turning around, he saw Geri in sweat pant type shorts and a shirt. She was running her hand through her disheveled hair and was looking at him, with that same radiant smile. Smiling in return, "Hey." He watched as she slowly walked up to him, "You said you had eggs for breakfast. So I thought I'd make you some. I hope you like them scrambled." "That's perfect, that's how I usually make them" she said as she stood up next to him and put her arm around his waist. She watched for a moment as the eggs curdled into their familiar shape before he dumped them onto a plate next to the stove. He reached for the coffee pot which had finished brewing just before she came out, "Coffee?" "I'd love some." She let go of him as he reached for a couple of mugs and poured each of them a cup. He carefully observed how much cream and sugar she put in so that he could make it for her the next time without having to ask. Setting plates down on the table, Mark pulled out a chair for Geri to sit in and then sat in his own chair. The room was quite with the only noise coming from the silverware hitting against the plates. Geri was the first to speak, "Did you mean what you said last night?" "What's that?" he replied, thinking it was about his declaration of love, but he didn't want to assume. "That you love me." Pausing to look at her, "Yes, I did." Geri looked at her plate and nodded her head. A momentary knot formed in his gut, afraid that perhaps it was the wrong thing to say at the wrong time. He really didn't want to anything to be ruined. Geri put her fork down and looked at him. He could see that the corners of her eyes were moist. This didn't do anything to calm his concerns. "Was it just last because we were in bed?" she asked as she looked at him. Mark knew then that she was afraid that he just said that he loved her just because she let him in her bed. "No" was all he said. Geri continued to look at him. Mark set his fork down and said "Geri, I have been in love with you for a long time. I've never said anything because, well, it's like we talked about the other day and my not asking you out. I was too afraid." "And now?" Feeling his own emotions building up, "Now, I told you last night that I love you and I'm telling you again. I am very much in love with you, Geri." She smiled and said softly, "And I love you too. Like you, I've loved you for a while now. I just reached a point that I figured you'd never say anything so I felt I had to before something happened and you went away." They resumed eating their breakfast when Geri asked, "When did you first know?" Mark thought for a moment, "Do you remember that day that you and I came across the field full of bighorn sheep and we had a bunch of other hikers with us?" Geri nodded, recalling the day. She and Mark were on one of their weekend hikes when they had come across the herd. Someone asked a question about the animals and she ended up giving a short session on the creature. "I remember." "Well, I watched you talk. I was listening to what you were saying at the start. But the more I watched you the more that I knew then that I was in love with you. I wanted to take you in my arms and hold you tight and kiss you." She looked at him, "I thought something had changed that day. You seemed to be distracted most of the day." Turning up the corner of his mouth just a little, "Yeah, I was. I was wrestling with the joy that I felt in my heart and my wanting to say something. " In a quiet voice, "I wish you had" she said, looking at him. Mark didn't say a word. He regretted that he didn't say anything to her then and thought the time that was wasted. "I was already in love with you. I was just hoping that the feeling was mutual" she said as she smiled. He took her hand in his, he looked at her eyes and could feel his heart pounding, his emotions were bubbling, and declared once again, "I am in love with you, Geri. Very much." She broke into a smile and used the napkin to wipe her eyes. Looking around as if she was searching for something, she looked at him and said "Don't forget, we have that trail guide to do today." Standing up, Mark started to grab the dishes and take them to the sink when she stopped him, "I'll get those. Don't worry about them." She came around the table and wrapped her arms around him, resting her head on his shoulder. "Thank you for telling me." He stroked her hair, "I just I hadn't waited so long." He tugged at her shoulders so that he could see her face. Letting his lips touch hers softly, he rubbed her back as he took her lips into his. Without warning, her mouth attacked his in a fervor that left little doubt to her passion. Breaking away, Mark saw the biggest smile on her face that he recalled ever seeing. She rubbed the tops of his arms as she told him, "You probably need to get home. We're supposed to be at the trailhead in a couple of hours." Smiling himself, "You're probably right. Want me to pick you up?" Shaking her head, "I'll meet you there. I have to make a couple of stops on the way." Geri watched as he pulled on the clothes he wore the night previous. A bit wrinkled from lying on the floor all night in a tangled mess, but he didn't care. One last kiss as he went out the front door, Mark proceeded home, not totally aware of his surroundings. He was lost in an emotional high that was the greatest feeling in the world; he was in love with a beautiful woman and she loved him back. Mark and Geri * Mark was late getting to the trailhead. He made the mistake of checking his email when he got home and it held him up. He walked up to the half dozen people that made up today's group. It had become almost a routine for the two of them; about once every three or four weeks, they would guide a group of people on one of the area trails and help get them acquainted with the local flora and fauna. Today was no exception. "Good morning everyone" Geri called out to the group who responded in kind. "My name is Geri and this is my boyfriend Mark." Mark's ears perked up as being referred to as her boyfriend. A smile formed on his lips as he looked at Geri who smiled in return. "The two of us will be leading you on a short hike today. We'll be stopping along the way at various spots to point out some of the more interesting plant life that exists in the area. With any luck we will also see some wildlife. I do need to point out that you need to stay on the trail. Are there any questions before we start?" Geri looked around to see if anyone had any. Seeing none, "Okay, let's get started." Geri was at the lead of the group and as was customary, Mark brought up the rear. This made sure that no one got left behind and it helped the group stay together. As they had done this type of hike a number of times before, they easily fell into their routine where Geri would stop and point out things and Mark would answer questions from some of the stragglers. Today was different however, in that they couple kept stealing glances at each other. Not wanting to over exert the visitors, the group returned to the trailhead two hours later. Unlike previous hikes, they put their arm around each other as the guests stopped to say thanks before making their way to their cars. "Well that was fun. This group seemed a little livelier and interested than some we've had" Geri commented. Nodding in agreement, "I agree." "So," Geri started to ask, "Do you have any plans for the rest of the day?" Mark looked at Geri. What he really wanted to do was take her home and spend the rest of the day in bed. "No, not really. Did you have something in mind?" "How about we go back up the trail?" While he really wanted was to take her home and make passionate love to her. But anything that would let him continue to be with her was okay with him. "Sure, we can do that" he answered with a smile. "I need to grab something from the car and we can go" she said as she kissed him on the cheek before jogging to her car. Mark watched as she opened the back hatch of her car and set her backpack in it. Looking at the deep blue sky, the brilliant green trees, the hills that made up the valley that they were in, Mark could have sworn that everything seemed brighter and more brilliant than usual. "Ready?" Geri said as she came up towards him. "Ready" Mark answered, giving her a kiss. The couple hiked for about a half hour with just some small talk between them. Walking single file on a narrow trail didn't always allow for lots of conversations. When they did stop for water, the conversation was light. It wasn't until they reached the top of a knoll that the conversation become more. Pointing to a clump of trees about 500 feet off the trail, Geri said "I want to show you a spot I found when I was up here a while back." Marked nodded, "Okay." While they encouraged visitors to stay on the trail in order to avoid creating what are called social trails, off trail hiking wasn't prohibited. Mark and Geri often went off trail when they spotted something that might need the attention of maintenance crews. They arrived at the spot she had pointed out. It was several trees that grew in a semi-circle with a spot in the center of short grasses. It was such that it was protected from the breezes that flowed down the valley and off the hills. It was also well protected from the beating sun which can get hot during the summer months, just bits of sunlight peeking through the branches here and there. It also felt very secluded. Taking his hand in hers, "Isn't this beautiful? It's so quiet and peaceful. I've actually come up here a couple of times just to wash off the hassles of the week." Mark had to admit, it was a pretty incredible spot. "And no one has ever bothered you?" Shaking her head, "Never. It's why it's so great. It's like my own private spot." Turning to face him, "I remember the last time I was up here," Geri said in a soft voice, "I was sitting here imagining what it would be like to have you make love to me here." Mark felt his penis respond almost immediately. His heart rate picked up a little bit. Without a word, he pulled her closer and kissed her. Geri was able to feel the bulge that had grown in his pants and pushed her hips into it in response. Geri broke away and pulled her back pack off of her shoulders. She opened the main pocket and pulled out a blanket. "I went back to the car to grab this." Mark watched as she laid the blanket out on the ground. He dropped his back pack to the ground and watched as she turned to him and slowly took off her clothes. When the last of her clothing had been dropped to the side, Mark looked at the nude figure before him. Little bits of sunlight poked through the trees and shined on her. It seemed to find the right spots to accentuate. Her nipples were erect and her bush looked lusher. He hoped that she would never shave it away completely. There was just something about the natural look versus being clean shaven. "Make love to me, Mark" Geri said in a soft voice. Mark quickly stripped out of his clothes and laid her down on the blanket. Where the previous night was slow and sensuous, this time it was the unbridled passion of two lovers letting go of all their emotions. New positions were tried as the two lovers started learning about each others hot spots and how to bring pleasure to the other. One included taking her from behind. She was on her knees and rested her forehead on the blanket. Mark felt like he was in further than he had before. It created new pressure points on his shaft that he hadn't felt before; ones that triggered a quicker release than he anticipated. But the timing still wasn't bad as she came right after him. Geri was lying on her back, her legs spread slightly as drips of come continued to seep out of her and onto the blanket below. She turned her head to look at Mark, who was lying on his side looking at her. Rolling on her side, her gaze drifted down to his limp penis which lay against his leg. "I sometimes wonder if you would have ever gotten around to asking me for a date." "I don't know. I might have. I can be a little dense sometimes." He looked at her and thought that he might have lost the opportunity to be with her if was any less observant. Reaching out and slowly stroking his penis, "I've wanted you for some time. I started getting afraid that if I didn't say something, someone else would have come along and snapped you up." Looking into his eyes, "And I didn't want that." Mark smiled, "I wish I wasn't so oblivious to the signs and I wish that I'd a said something sooner. But I thought you were already involved with someone and I really didn't want to intrude." "Well," Geri smiled, gently pinching his cock, "that's all behind us. I have you now and I don't intend on letting you go." Laughing just a little, "Well that's good. Because I have no intention of letting you go." They lay there for a while longer before deciding it was time to return to the car. This spot was 'their' spot and they would return here many times over the coming years. They also discovered a fondness for sex in the great outdoors. * Fall was in the air, a number of trees had leaves that were on the verge of turning. Geri and Mark pulled into the trailhead parking lot. Today was to be the last guided hike of the season. They had arrived a little early and theirs was only the second car in the lot. They could just make out the figure of a hiker on the trail as he disappeared behind the trees. They grabbed their backpacks and other materials that they would use on the guided hike and went to where the trail started. Leaning against a railing separating the parking lot from the trail, Mark said "These have been fun. We should plan on doing them again next season. What do you think?" Nodding her head, "Only if it's you that I'm partnered with." "Count on it." Geri looked at her watch to see that it was just about time for the hikers to arrive. "I thought last week's hike was the last one of the season. Didn't you?" Geri noted as she turned to Mark. "I don't know. All I got was the same email as you asking if we'd take one last group." Cars started pulling into the parking lot and people of all ages started milling around. It wasn't a large group and the ages went from senior citizens to a couple of kids that looked like they weren't even 10. As was their routine, Geri stepped forward and announced, "All those here for the guided hike, please gather around." A group slowly formed a semi-circle around the couple. "Good morning, everyone. My name in Geri and this is Mark," pointing to where he stood behind her. He gave a slight wave of his hand. "We're glad that you were able to come out today for our last guided hike of the season." Mark watched the group as Geri gave her welcoming speech, telling people about what to expect, to stay on the trails, to make sure everyone had water. As was also their routine, she led the way up the trail with Mark bringing up the rear. It was just a few hundred yards into the trees when Geri stopped the group and pointed to a spot 30 yards off the trail. There was a fox and her kits. It was a sight that neither Geri nor Mark had seen before. The group was able to watch them for several minutes before the animals bounded off into the trees. Geri looked at the group, "Folks that was truly amazing. It's not something I've ever seen before and I've been hiking for years." Many in the group looked at each other with big smiles and whispered amongst themselves. Leading the group down the trail a little further, Mike was rubbing the side of his nose when one of the older women in the group stopped and pointed to a plant, "Dear, I see these all over the place. What are they?" Geri had stopped and turned around to see what the woman was pointing to. In the meantime, the rest of the group had gathered to see what the woman was pointing to. Geri looked at the plant and said, "That is called a Common Mullein. It's a noxious weed." "Does that mean it's poisonous?" "No, it means that it's not native to the area" Geri started explaining how the decorative plant native to Europe made its way here. Mark looked up the trail and watched as the hiker that started on the trail before them appeared a couple of dozen of feet away and set some items down alongside the trail. Mark and the other hiker nodded to each other as the hiker disappeared back into the trees. Geri was just finishing up when he turned his attention back to the group. "So, part of our volunteer program has us trying to kill the plants whenever we can." "I see, thank you" said the woman. "Are there any other questions?" Geri called out to the group. Seeing none, she turned around and started walking up the trail. Geri had only gotten a little ways when she was heard saying "What the?" The group gathered together behind her but remained a few feet behind. Mark made his way forward until he was right behind Geri. He looked where she was looking and there was a dozen roses lying bundled together with a bow. A small box rested next to them. Geri didn't say a word as she bent down and picked up the box. Thinking that it was something that a previous visitor left, she opened the box to find a ring inside. She turned to find Mark so that they could take it to lost and found. But before she was able to say anything, Mark took the box from her hand and dropped to one knee, "Geri, I have been in love with you for a long time. I thought that I would never feel this way about a woman again. Having you in my life is the best thing that has ever happened to me. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?" Geri's eyes were soaked with tears as she brought her hands up and covered her mouth. Looking at the crowd of people standing behind and then back to Mark, she nodded her head and said "Yes." Mark stood up and slipped the ring onto her finger as the group of people behind her clapped. Wrapping her arms around his neck, "I was hoping that you would ask me this time, instead of my having to ask you." Holding each other's shoulders, Mark looked at the radiant smile that drew her to him in the first place and gave her a long and passionate kiss. Suddenly embarrassed, Geri turned to look at the group and whispered, "Mark, these people are watching." "I know" Mark said as he let go and turned to face the group. "Geri, this is my dad Harold and my mother Helen" pointing out the older couple in the group. Pointing out a couple behind them, arms wrapped around each other, "That is my sister Erica and her husband Steve." Pointing to a third couple who had a teenaged girl with them, "That is my brother Jack, his wife Mary and my niece Amy." Looking at the group and then to Mark, "All these people are your family?" "Well not all of them. My aunt and uncle couldn't make it. But yeah, they are." He watched as she took in the group of people before her. Her parents had already passed away. Her only brother lived in upstate New York and they didn't talk much. Geri realized that the whole day had been set up. The reason for the last minute group was now clear to her. Looking at the ring on her finger, she broke out in tears again and again wrapped her arms around her fiancé and buried her face in his neck. The gathering of Mark's family broke out into applause and came up to the couple. * Spring was edging its way into summer as the newlyweds exited their honeymoon suite. The sun was just peaking over the tops of the mountains across the valley. The couple emerged from the tent on a rise above Lake Genevieve still naked from their previous night of lovemaking. It would be another day or two before they would dress again. The wedding was a small affair with family and a few close friends present. Even Geri's brother flew out for the occasion and gave them the opportunity to heal wounds. As was fitting for the couple, they exchanged vows at the trailhead and enjoyed a small cookout at one of the many picnic tables that populated the area. Leaving the group shortly after 1, they started up the trail and reached their camping spot in the late afternoon, setting up their camp above the lake, above the spot where they first became a couple.