6 comments/ 10697 views/ 2 favorites Out of the Shadows Ch. 03 By: Iread2relax Hello, everyone. I hope you read chapter two and enjoyed it. This story is a continuation of the Shadows of Resentment series. In this chapter Darius and his team gets a short reprieve before continuing training. As I explained with chapter 2, Again, I am no expert on anything military, so I used my imagination freely here. It is not my intention to offend any of the great people who have sacrificed and served in any branch of the military. So please remember this in a fictional piece of writing and not meant to be taken literally. I hope you enjoy this chapter and remember to vote and comment after you have read it. Thank you. IR2R, Later that day, Horse and Danny caught airplanes to head home and check on their families. Marge found out the girls didn't have any family they could visit, so she offered to let them stay at their home. The ladies refused, because even though the offer was nice. They wanted to maintain their independence. So of course, Marvin, along with Marge drove the girls to a local hotel and helped them secure a room. Marge made them promise to come over and join her for breakfast. She left no room for them to refuse. She and Marvin drove home and sat holding each other for a whole. Darius offered to drive Derrick, Dawn, and DJ home, so he would visit with his twin for a while. "Marvin," Marge addressed her husband as he held her securely, "He has changed. He seems calmer. I'm glad he's home. His team, they are sweet kids." Marge sighed. "LaCynthia is really a lovely girl." "No, Marge. We stay out of their lives. I know what you're thinking." Marvin held his closer. "If he pursues Cynthia, that's between them." "I know and you know what honey." Marge added. "I like her. She's nice and she's half in love with that boy." She chuckled. "I know. He watched her all afternoon." Marvin chucked. "He could barely stand to be a way from her." "But they still have training, so we'll wait and see." Marge concluded. "I still like her." Darius drove back into his parent's driveway and sat in the car for a moment. He was thinking about the events of the day. He felt good. As soon as they made it home from the ceremony, Momma insisted that everyone change into comfortable clothes. The girls changed in Sierra's old room, and he and the guys changed in his room. When the girls walked out he recalled seeing Cynthia in regular clothes for the first time. All of them donned simple jeans and a tee shirt, but Cynthia in regular clothes caused his body to stir. He never wanted to leave her side, but he had to let her breathe. Sergeant Lee told him that if you held on to something to hard you could choke the life out of it. So he'd slow down and let things develop naturally. He thought about Deidre and his girls. She seemed happy. Much like the girl he fell in love with four years ago. Jason was good for her. Chuckling, he thought about Cameron and his coddling of Sierra. His baby sister and best friends were having a baby. He couldn't wait to tease Cameron about his pending foray into parenting. Last he thought about his twin, Derrick, his brother. He owed him. He never wanted to hurt him like he had in the past. Since he was more aware of how his actions affected those around him, he could make sure to make better choices. Dawn was due any day now. He'd check on her and make sure Derrick knew he'd be there. Darius sighed realizing that he was truly a blessed. He finally got out of the car and let himself in. On his way to his room, he checked all the doors and windows. He stopped by his parents room and checked on them. They were fast asleep. He saw the pride in their eyes and felt good. He liked that feeling and wanted to keep it. Retiring to his room, Darius climbed into his bed. Soon he was fast asleep. His last thought was of a dark-skinned beauty that took his breath away. The next morning, Darius was up early because he had made plans with the girls to meet them for a morning run. They'd meet him at the park at four and take advantage of the track. The park was within walking distance of his house, so he dressed in his sweats and headed there. He couldn't wait to see Cynthia. He would be happy to see the other girls to, but Cynthia was his. Part of him wished they'd accepted his parents offer. He had also promised his Dad, that he'd come over to the garage and speak with the fellas. He also wanted to walk over and see Sergeant Jameson at the recruitment office. He credited Sergeant Jameson with giving him an out to get his life in order. When he arrived at the park, he found his three team members already stretching and waiting for him. "What happened Officer, didn't want to let go of the bed?" Maria teased as he walked up. Darius grimaced, "Sorry guys, won't happen again." "It's Ok," Kerrie stated. "So," said Cynthia, "Let's go or are you three just gonna stand here and talk." They ran around the track for an hour covering at least ten miles, which was usually what their morning run consisted of. When the run ended, Darius's phone rang, "Hello, calm down. Derrick, I'm fine, just went for a run." The three girls stood alert "What's going on?" Cynthia asked. She liked his brother and sister. "Nothing, my brother called the house and I wasn't there. He was worried. He's almost as bad as he was when Dawn was pregnant with DJ." He tried to joke. The three ladies looked at each other and then at him. "You need to spend some time with him and talk." Cynthia said. "I mean it." "Yeah, Cynthia's right, Darius. Your brother is pretty cool. Let him know you're fine." Maria interjected. Kerrie simply nodded agreeing with her friends. Darius agreed, and made a mental note to call Derrick. Darius walked the girls back to their hotel and they informed him that they were heading to his parents for breakfast later that morning. Kerrie and Maria headed back to their room, but he stopped Cynthia. "I missed you. I'm used to you being in the room with me." Cynthia hugged him, "I missed you, too. But I need this time with the girls alright." She explained. "I know. Do you guys want me to wait? I can walk you to my parents' house." He suggested. "I thought you had plans with your Dad this morning." Cynthia stated. Hugging her tightly, Darius said. "You're right; can I at least get a kiss?" Cynthia gave him a chaste kiss on the cheek. Darius chuckled, "At some point, I am going to get you alone and teach you how I like to be kissed." Then he pulled her in a tight embraced and covered her lips with his. Cynthia loved being kissed by him. She reveled in his show of dominance over her. Her body's response fed into the blazing inferno that started deep inside of her. Her breathing became heavy, nipples hardened, and heat formed at the apex of her thighs. Darius moaned, he wanted this woman, but he had to wait. Not because she asked him but because for once he would do things the right way. They'd been seeing each other for two weeks, but had not been intimate beyond touching. He didn't have any place her could take her and would not disrespect is parents' home. When he and Cynthia made love, he wanted to make sure they were someplace where they could share true intimacy. Cynthia pulled away, "Darius, I've got to shower and change. Then we're walking to your parents' house." "You don't have to walk, I'll come get you." Darius suggested. "No, we want to walk. This town is beautiful and the three of us want to explore." She kissed him lightly on the lips, her body still yearning for him, body tingling. "I'll see you later." Darius jogged back to his parents' home, entering the kitchen he and smelled coffee brewing. "Morning Momma." He kissed his mom on the cheek. "Hey, Son. Did you rest well?" Marge asked. She loved having her son home. "I slept like a log. I went out for a run with the girls. They're headed over later." He answered. Marge then started to prepare breakfast. Darius sat and talked with his mother until his father, Marvin came out. "Son, I know you don't work there, but the guys would love to see you." Marvin said, ecstatic that Darius agreed to visit the garage. He wanted to show his son, the soldier off. Marge fixed a simple beakfast for them and stood to watch them eat. It had been over two months since she'd fixed breakfast for her two men. As soon as they finished breakfast, Marvin kissed his wife's temple and told her to take it easy today. Darius heard what his dad whispered and saw how he embraced his Mom. Something was wrong, and he needed to know what it was. He'd talk to Dad about it when they left. When he and his Dad were driving to the garage, Darius asked, "Dad is Momma sick or something? I mean I know something is wrong, she's not quite herself." "Son, I won't lie to you. I want her to see a doctor, but she says she's fine." Marvin explained to his son. "Dad, if you can get her to go see someone today, I'll stay at the garage." Darius suggested. "I'll call Dee and ask if she can bring the girls here for a while. They can play in the office." "I'll try." Marvin exhaled. "Can you also watch DJ? We could take him with us, but I don't know how long." "Dad, of course I'll get DJ. You take care of Momma, OK." Darius stated emphatically. Relieved Marvin whispered, "Thanks son. She doesn't want to worry anyone. For that matter neither do I, but we are getting older." Cynthia, Kerrie, and Maria showered and dressed and were about to head to the Granger's house. "Cynthia, what are you waiting on girl? You haven't slept with that man yet." Maria queried. Scoffing, Cynthia replied, "We are people not a couple of rutting animals. We're taking things slow." "Damn, girl. You're better than me." Maria continued. "I would have raped him by now." Kerrie laughed and told Maria to stop teasing. "You just miss Horace." Kerrie teased. "Ooooh Yes." Maria groaned. "Corn fed country boys are the best." Then winking at Cynthia, "In more ways than one." "Wait a minute, you and Horse? When?" Cynthia asked. "Right before the ceremony." Maria gloated. "You didn't miss us because you and Darius are taking things slow. "Hey, I only found out because I caught them sneaking back out of the barracks and Horse forgot to fix his clothes." Kerrie teased. "Wow! Maria, are you serious-" Cynthia starte to ask. "Cyn, I like him. He's a nice guy, not like the guys in my past." Maria exhaled, "but we're gonna separate for training and well, you know." "Hey, it's only for a little while and we can stay in touch." Cynthia reminded her friend. Then both women looked at Kerrie, "Do you need to tell us something about Danny?" "Hell no!" Kerrie answered, "I'm not Danny's type. He prefers penis." Then she walked ahead of them. Cynthia and Maria stumbled. "Uh uh!"Cynthia stopped her, "Hold up! How do you know this? Did you try something with him?" "No, we were talking one night before graduation, and I saw him checking out some guy in another battalion. He told me." She exhaled. He's afraid to tell the guys because he thinks Darius and Horse will hate him. "Wait, this is his secret. Kerrie will he be okay with you telling us?" Cynthia asked. She didn't want to violate anyone's privacy. "Yea, he called last night and we talked." Kerrie explained. "He wanted me to tell you guys he's home safe and misses you. He asked if I had told you two and I said no. So he said it was alright to let you know, but he wants to tell the guys." "Wow!" said Maria. "I'm gonna give him a hug and then I'm kicking his ass for not telling me." Before long, the girls were at the Granger's house. Deidre was just dropping off the girls as they walked up. The women were cordial and spoke when Deidre spotted Cynthia. "Hey," Deidre greeted. "You're Cynthia. I've wanted to meet you. I'm-" Cynthia rudely cut her off, "I know who you are." Crossing her arms, she waited for Deidre to have her say. Deidre immediately recoiled. The woman before her was a woman in love and she was the woman that hurt the person she cared about. Deidre tried again. "Cynthia, what happened between Darius and me, well..." Cynthia cleared her throat, "I know what he told me. You were together. You found someone else, so you broke up with him." "Why didn't you let him go as soon as you knew you liked the other guy?" Cynthia asked. She really wanted to understand. This family didn't treat this girl any different, even though they all knew what this girl did to him. Deidre knew she didn't really owe this girl an explanation, but she'd try any way. "Cynthia, can we please talk alone? This is private." Deidre asked.Cynthia looked at her sisters in arms and nodded. The other two ladies left them alone. 'So what is it, Deidre? What do you need to say?" Cynthia asked angrily. "Look, you have to know that I loved that man. I loved him with all that I have within me, but he was too intense. He had a hard time letting me breath. At first, I loved it, but then I felt smothered." Deidre tried to explain. Cynthia scoffed, "I wished someone ... Sorry, go on." She saw how Darius looked at this woman and knew she was special to him. A part of her felt jealous, but then she realized she had Jason and he was perfect for her. Deidre felt that she needed to find a way to get along with Cynthia because she would one day be an important part of the family. "So," Cynthia interjected her heart breaking at the pain he must have felt. "You snuck around on him because he smothered you. Then you met a guy that doesn't smother you. That makes it alright for you hurt him like you did." "No, Cynthia, that's not what I..." Deidre let out a nervous breath. "Look, I fucked up and hurt him. But honestly, it was over before Jason came into the picture. I just didn't have the courage to tell him. That was my fault. I know you don't like me. And probably never will." Deidre took a breath. "But Cynthia, you are someone important to him. This means you are important in this family and will possibly be a part of our lives. Despite everything, I want him to be happy and you make him happy. So, I hope, we can find a way to get along." Cynthia exhaled, "Look, whatever happened between you two is really none of my business. Darius and I well... We're friends. That's it. Besides, he never..." Deidre smiled, "It's more than friendship. If it weren't, you wouldn't want to strangle me right now. It's fine, I know how you feel." "He's falling in love with you. Darius loves hard and everyone can see how he looks at you." Deidre chuckled nervously, "Girl have you seen the way he looks at you?" "It doesn't matter. I mean. He's a great guy, but in two weeks... Fuck! "Cynthia let out a frustrated breath. "Girl, you're gone and don't even know it, or maybe you do." Deidre could understand; she once felt the same. "Look, Cynthia, I hope we can be friends at least. I'll understand if you don't want anything to do with me, and I can respect that. But I hope you'll want to try to be friends. I want you to know, I'm not a threat to your relationship with him. Darius and I are over." Looking at her watch, Deidre declared, "I've got to head to work, but believe me, he sees you as more than a friend." Then she hopped in her car and drove off. For the first time, Cynthia felt alright. Deidre was beautiful. Short, curvaceous, light skinned, but she was real. Cynthia respected that, and she could see why this family cared for this woman. She and Darius had kids, two beautiful little girls, but she was here telling her that she and Darius were through. That's the same thing he said yesterday. So, maybe, it was true. Cynthia smiled and the two ladies parted ways on amicable terms. She could respect Darius's ex-girlfriend, because she was showed her respect in kind. Cynthia walked to the house where Maria and Kerrie were waiting. "Hey, chica." Maria asked, her Spanish accent more pronounce whenever she was upset, "What did she want? You need me too take care-" Cynthia stopped her. Kerrie too was concerned, "Are you alright Cyn?" she asked concerned. Laughing she said, "I'm fine. She just wanted to explain some things. I think she was giving me her blessing. Anyway, she seems like a decent person. I'm not mad at her." All three women exhaled as Marge walked in trailed by DJ, Cammie and Rory. "Oh good, help's here. Ladies, I've got to feed this brood. Do any of you know anything about changing diapers?" Marge asked. DJ wasn't quite potty trained yet and she could use an extra set of hands. "I've got it." Maria interjected "She picked up DJ and took the smelly toddler into the bathroom with extra clothing to freshen him up. "Kerrie, be a sweetheart and grab the milk and butter from the frig. Cyn, if you'll help me get the twins seated, I'll appreciate it." So Cynthia helped Camorra intoher seat and then she turned to help Camirra. Both girls were so polite they thanked her sweetly as Marge and Kerrie brought in their breakfast. "Mrs. Granger, how do you do this everyday?" Cynthia asked. Watching three small children seemed like a lot. "They are my grandbabies, and they mean the world to me. Today is the first day, I've had DJ all day. Dawn usually takes him to daycare. Deidre wants to put the twins in daycare too, but I'm trying to talk her out of it." Marge looked away. "I was there when each one of these angels was born." She took a deep breath. "If I can watch them for their mommas, then that's what I will do. Besides, usually Marvin is here to help me with the morning start. He wanted to show Darius off at the garage today, that's why he left." "You girls must be starving, let me get the babies settled and I'll fix you breakfast." Marge offered. "No," said Maria. "You sit and we can make our own breakfast. Have you eaten?" she asked. She found that she really cared about this older woman and she'd only known her for a few hours, but she felt like family. Marge hadn't eaten and Maria ended up preparing a quick breakfast for the four of them. As soon as the finished eating, Cyn and Kerrie cleaned up the kitchen as Darius and Marvin walked in. Marvin noticed how tired Marge was looking and grew concerned. He knew she didn't want to upset the kids so he pulled her to him gently and kissed her temple, letting her know silently that he was there. Darius watch Kerrie and Cyn joking as they finished cleaning and saw Maria reading to the kids. He walked in and hugged his daughters and nephew. I have two more nephews on the way. he thought cheering deep down inside. Cyn and Kerrie came out and saw that the men had returned. They greeted them and sat to figure out what they'd do for the day. Kerrie and Maria knew that they'd stay close to the house. Although they'd just met Marge, and sensed something wasn't right. Marvin convinced Marge to go to the doctor's. Darius called Deidre and had her to make sure Mom was on the list to see someone when she got there. Darius also called Derrick and Sierra to let them know something was wrong with Mom. Within minutes, Derrick came to get DJ along with Dawn who had another appointment at the doctor's. When Marvin made it to the clinic, Marge was taken straight back. Marvin was terrified. He didn't let Darius come with him. He didn't want to be seen as weak. His wife, his lover, his heart was ill and there was nothing he could do. "Papa Marvin, Momma Marge, come on back." Deidre called them and placed them in a room. She then took Marge's vitals. As she wrote the information onto her chart, Marge spoke. "Don't you think about putting my grandbabies in a daycare. I'll get over this and be fine." She said to the younger woman. Deidre smiled, "Momma Marge, wouldn't dream of it. Sit tight and the doctor will be right in." Out of the Shadows Ch. 03 The doctor read her chart and ordered a battery of test. He noted that her blood pressure was slightly elevated, but not high enough for medication. He ordered her to go home and rest, and said he'd call when the results of the test came in. When Marvin made it home, everyone was waiting. They were relieved that Marge was alright. Sierra told her mother she was taking the kids for the day. So she gathered the twins and DJ and was headed out the door. Cynthia stopped her and asked that she wait a moment. Maria would go with her to help with the kids. Kerrie volunteered to stay with Marge so that Marvin could go on to the garage. Marge refused at first; she didn't need anyone making a fuss over her. Cynthia volunteered to drive Dawn to her appointment, thereby giving Derrick and Darius time to talk. "Honey, Cynthia will drive me. I can give her directions and we will be fine." Dawn assured her husband. She knew he was anxious, as was she, but he needed to talk with Darius and this time was perfect for them. The two guys decided to head to the park and talk there. The only person missing was Cam. The two recalled when the three of them were kids and the antics they'd get into. Then the mood turned sober. They recalled the fight that ended their friendship and Saria's death. Derrick became silent. "Darius, I should have said something back then. I should have stood up to you." "Wait, man, are you serious?" Darius queried. "We were kids. I put you guys through hell and was too stupid to realize it." "Derrick, I manipulated you. I used your love for me against you. I made you feel you had to choose and that was wrong." Darius exhaled. "I was an ass. I ask your forgiveness, because I hurt you the most. I'm sorry." Inhaling he made a solemn promise too his brother, his twin. "I will never, treat you, or anyone else like that again. You have stood with me and by me through everything, and I promise you it wasn't in vain." Derrick wiped away his tears as his heart filled with pride for his brother. Darius Granger had finally grown up. "Now, let's talk about my new nephew. First, what are you planning to name him. He needs a guy name, remember that." Laughing two men gave each other dap. Bumping there fist together in a show of solidarity. The guys played a quick basketball game with Darius winning of course. "Derrick, man, you're out of shape." He teased his brother. Then they walked back to their parent's home. "Man, Dawn is as good a cook as Mom" Derrick chuckled. "I can't help it." Marvin was waiting on them to return. He'd decided to take the day off and asked Darius to run the garage for him, so he could stay home with Marge. So the two men were preparing to go to the garage. Then they decided to ask Marvin to let Dawn know Derrick went with Darius. Kerrie and Marvin spent the day pampering Marge. "Kerrie, I know you didn't have to do this. Thank you. You girls are-" Marvin started to say, but Kerrie cut him off. "Darius went out of his way to look out for us Mr. Granger. He's our brother. So if his Mom needs me I'm here." Kerrie took a breath sniffling. "See, my mom died and Mrs. Granger reminds me of her. I'm sorry, sir. Um, let me..." Marvin pulled the young woman in a tight embrace, as she sobbed softly. Darius and Derrick walked in and wanted to know immediately what was wrong. Marvin laughed, "Nothing boys, but I think you have three new sisters." Kerrie looked confused, Derrick and Darius chuckled. As Marge walked into the kitchen, She admonished them for making Kerrie uncomfortable which made them laugh even more. Soon Cynthia and Dawn were back, and Derrick took his beautiful wife home. Thanking Cynthia for taking care of her, Derrick teased Darius and told him to watch out for their new sister. Over the next week, everyone got to know the members of the team really well. At the beginning of the second week, Horse and Danny came back. Each guy called Darius to make sure he would meet them the airport. Not wanting to take his Dad's car, in case he had to go out for some reason, Darius called Cameron for a ride to pick up his friends. While driving to the airport, Darius and Cameron had a chance to talk. "Darius," Cameron told his friend. "I am so glad you're back. Sierra was worried sick, but I see you really benefitted from going. I can tell that you've changed." "Well, I haven't been around for ten weeks, so-" Darius chimed in. "No, Darius, you're different. There was wildness in you. It's still there but it's under control. I mean for example last week, when Jason drove up. The Old Darius might have done something, you stayed in control and welcomed the guy like it was no big deal." Cameron smiled at his friend. "I'm proud of you. The way you handled it was the right way." Darius nodded, "Cameron, the truth is I needed to take ownership for my actions and reactions. I needed to take back control. Deidre and I were finished a long time ago. A part of me wanted to blame him, but truthfully I was just too stubborn to admit it." Cameron was silent for a moment. He thought about that horrible night years ago. "You know I don't hold what happened that night against you. You didn't mean to hurt me. I know that. I hate that you still feel guilty. But you shouldn't, because it was just a horrible incident" Cameron sighed. "There's no need too." "But, hey, you named your girl's after me, right. For that alone I can forgive you." Cam snickered. " Now, just to let you know, I'm not naming my son Darius, alright. I asked your sister and she saidNO!" he explained to his friend. Both guys laughed. "So, you're gonna be a Daddy in a few months. Huh, how does it feel?" Darius teased Cameron. "Good man, but I'm scared as hell." Cameron confided in his friend. " You'll be fine. You might not get to see the baby the first few weeks. Hell, Dee, Jasmine, and Momma wouldn't let me near my girls alone when they first came home." Darius chuckled, recalling how he was barely allowed to touch the twins when they first came home. The women were very overprotective. "You already know it's a boy?" Darius asked. " "We don't know for sure. Everyone keeps calling the baby he. I don't care as long as the baby's healthy." Cameron stated with a goofy smile on his face. "Hmmm, I should insist you name him or her Darius. Do you have any idea what I had to do to convince Deidre to name my girls after you?" Darius scoffed. "She wanted to name them Laquesha and Naquesha." "Ouch!" Cameron cringed. "Dude, you're welcome. Glad, I did have a cool name." At this point they were at the airport, as the plane carrying Horace and Danny was descending. Before they got out of the car, Cameron stopped his friend. He had one more thing to say.. "Look, Darius. I'm glad you did something for yourself. Sometimes, you have to take yourself out of the situation. I want you to know man, I'm proud of you. The attack was a long time ago and as far as I'm concerned it's over." Darius looked at his friend, his other brother and smiled. He knew joining the Army was the right choice. On the way back to the Granger home, Cameron stopped at the local hotel and helped Horse and Danny to secure a room. Danny knew Kerrie had told the girls his secret. Now he had to tell Darius and Horse. He'd wait until they were alone, that way no one could hear the hateful words his friends might spew. When they arrived at the Ranger's home, the girls were there to greet them. Darius noticed that although Horse hugged each of the ladies, he hugged Maria a little bit harder and a little bit longer. Not to be one to miss an opportunity, Darius taped Horace on the shoulder, "Ummm, do you two have something to tell us?" He joked. Horse, never one to miss a beat, smiled "Yea, Boss, this little lady here is all mine." As he and Maria's eyes never left one another. Danny stood and quickly moved away. Now he knew, he had to tell his two brothers, and he prayed they didn't hate him when he told. Kerrie followed him. "Hey, Danny. It'll be alright." She assured her friend. "Kerrie, what if they hate me? I mean you guys are family to me." He wept softly. "I don't want to tell them." Kerrie hugged her friend, "Then don't." she whispered. While everyone else was greeting the two guys, Darius wanted to spend time with his lady. Walking up the Cynthia, he wrapped his arms around her waist. He hugged her tightly from behind and whispered in her ear. "Come with me. I want to show you something." Darius led her to his secret place. He and his brother had a tree house when they were kids. Cynthia laughed when she first saw the little building in the tree. Soon she and Darius had climbed up the small ladder and were together sung inside the old building. Holding her close, Darius nuzzled her neck and inhaled her scent. "Um, you feel so good." He whispered. "So do you." She replied as she held him close. Darius began to nuzzle her neck causing Cynthia's body to ignite. Darius lay back and allowed her to lay on top of him. Laying on top of him, Cynthia rubbed her body against him. Darius' body was hot and hard. He wanted this woman. Cynthia adjusted and straddled his body. The hot moist apex of her thighs, came in direct contact with his hardened member. The feel of his arousal drove Cynthia crazy and she rubbed her crotch against his protruding member that was encased in his jeans.Darius helped her remove her top revealing her perfct chocolate covered globes with thick dark nipples. Darius slid his hands over her stiff nipples and caressed her breast. Cynthia groaned. She made short work of removing his shirt from his body. Pressing her breast against his chest, the young wanton couple was oblivious to the world around them. Darius moaned, loving the feel of his woman on him. Cynthia was completely wild, lost in her passions. He had to taste her and pulled her up to cover her nipple with his hot hungry mouth. "Hey! Darius. Where are you?" he heard someone calling. "Darius!" the voice got closer. "Cynthia, baby. Stop." He whispered. "Someone 's calling me." "Darius!" the voice insisted. "What?!" Darius yelled back clearly annoyed. Cameron cracked up. "I know you didn't sneak in the treehouse to make out." Cynthia was mortified,Oh goodness! What will these people think of me? She quickly sat up and fixed her clothing. Darius looked at her face and was ashamed. He put her in this embarrassing position. "Um, Cam. Give us a minute. We'll be right there." He stated. "OK, but hurry up. We gotta go." Cameron answered as he headed back in. He explained that Darius was showing Cynthia their childhood hangouts. "Cynthia, I'm sorry.This is my fault and no reflection on you." Darius whispered. Cynthia looked at him, and gasped. She saw desire in his eyes. "Darius, what-" He stopped her, "I want you so much, but I don't have anyplace where I can take you so we can be alone. I just wanted some time with you. I'm sorry if you're embarrassed. I didn't mean-" She kissed him, first to stop his apology and the second reason because he was hers to kiss. "Darius, it's alright." She whispered when she ended the kiss, "Let's head back." Darius walked back into the kitchen where there was a frenzy of activity. Hugging his sister, he asked, "What's going on?" Darius asked. "Dawn is in labor and we're heading to the hospital." She explained. Everyone was excited, but everyone could not fit in the cars. So the team insisted that Darius go be with his brother, and they walked back to their hotel after locking the house. Horse and Maria went to Horses's room and spend some time together. Danny, Cynthia, and Kerrie decided to hang out in the girl's room. "You know, Danny and I can go see a movie or something so you and Darius can spend time alone." Kerrie suggested. "Thanks, Kerrie. I'll see." Cynthia answered. Hoping Darius would agree. Three hours later, Darius called and told them he had a new nephew. The baby and new mother were fine. Everyone was happy for Dawn and Derrick. Later that night, Darius came to the hotel to speak Cynthia. She met him in the lobby and they sat on one of the couches to talk. He apologized for the position he'd put her in earlier and offered to buy her breakfast. Soon he left and went back home. When he got home, he found Marvin sitting up reading the newspaper. "Dad, what's going on?" Darius asked. Marvin didn't want to add to his son's burden, so he tried to act as if nothing was wrong. But he was afraid of something happening to Marge. She was just exhausted and need rest this time, but she didn't tell him. She didn't want to worry him. What if something serious happened? Would she tell him or try and protect him. He didn't want to lose his wife. "The incident with your mother made me realize I need to make sure we have everything we need. You know how I am son; I'm a planner." Marvin joked. "Dad," Darius addressed, "Derrick, Sierra, Cameron, Dawn, Jasmine, Nick, Deidre, hell even Gunther are here for you. You know they will do anything for you. I'll be away at training, but I'm just a call away of you need me." "I know, son." Marvin said. "It just spooked me, that's all. Besides the doctor said she just needed rest. The tests were clear. I just ..." Marvin exhaled smiling, "I'm fine, son. Did you see your handsome new nephew? Handsome little guy. Marcus Granger, a nice, strong name." "I know." He answered smiling, "Now, Dad, go to bed. You need rest." Darius suggested to his father. Marvin nodded and retired for the night. Darius was happy for his brother, but he could not sleep. In two days, he and his team headed to AI training. He and Cynthia were going to different parts of the country. Although, he knew they'd keep in touch, it was not the same as seeing her everyday. He knew the whole group would be broken up for a while, but he didn't want to be separated from her. The next morning the team ate breakfast at a local restaurant, and Darius had to go get his girls. He'd kept the girls everyday since he came home. Often his team would help, and the girls loved the attention they got from everyone. He knew he'd be gone for a really longtime before he saw them again, so he spent as much time with them as he could. The girls spent several nights with him, but tonight, Deidre was picking them up. His parents were going out to dinner. Derrick was home with DJ because Dawn and the baby hospital were still in the hospital. Cameron was spoiling Sierra and wasn't up to going out. So he wanted to see if his team wanted to do some stuff. Darius drove to the hotel and headed to Danny's room. He saw Danny in the lobby and stopped to speak. Danny explained that Horse and Maria were using their room and he had no idea what Kerrie and Cyn were up to. As soon as their names were mentioned, Cyn and Kerrie walked up. "Hey Darius" Kerrie greeted. "Hey, " Cynthia greeted. "Um, guess what. Danny and I have plans." Kerrie interjected. Danny looked confused. Darius was perplexed. "Well, hey. Um we can go with-" Kerrie cut him off. "I need time alone with my friend, right Danny." Danny smiled finally catching on. "Yea, Kerrie promised to buy me a new CD, and who am I to disappoint." He added smiling. Kerrie shot him the look. Cynthia knew what her friend was doing. She just hoped Darius would for once shed his responsible role. "Yea, come on Danny. We'll be back in three hours." Kerrie told them as she pulled Danny out of the hotel. Laughing as their friend exited, Cynthia turned to look at Darius. "So, I have an empty hotel room with a big bed for three whole hours." Cynthia paused. "I wonder what can happen." Then she stood, crooked her fingers at him, and walked away. Darius being ever the gentleman, had no choice but to follow. She unlocked to door to her room and led him inside. He kissed her immediately. Cynthia kissed him back just as fiercely. She needed to feel his skin, so she started pulling at his clothes. Within seconds he was shirtless with a spitfire in his arms. Darius need to slow things down. He had to stop. As much as he wanted her, and he did want her, he didn't have protection. So he stopped her. "Baby, stop." Darius whispered. "Damn it Darius. We always stop. For once, please." Cynthia pleaded. "Baby, do you think this is easy? I see you and I'm hard as steel, but I have to stop. We don't have protection. We leave in two days for AI training on different sides of the country. We cannot take a risk." He explained gently. Cynthia sighed, "What you're saying makes sense up here?" She pointed to her temple. "But in here," pointing to her heart, " it feels like you don't really want me." Darius moved to hold her, "You have no idea, how much I want you? I'm gonna be hard and uncomfortable for a long time. But we can't risk a pregnancy Cynthia." Cynthia shrank away from him, with tears rolling down her brown cheeks. Darius sat and took her hands, "Cynthia look at me. I want kids with you. But, you have to be my wife. We are committed to the Army and a pregnancy right now would not be a good thing." Then he held her, and kissed her. After a while, Cynthia started to pull away and he could not let her go. "Darius, please let me go." She whispered. "How much time before they come back?" he asked. Cynthia looked at her clock, "Two and a half hours." "I'll be back." And Darius rushed out of the room. Knocking on Danny and Horses' door, he willed his friend to answer. Horse answered, but he wasn't too happy at being interrupted. "Horse, condoms. I need condoms." Darius stammered. "Be right back." Darius heard Horse and Maria talking, and then Horse was back with an entire unopened box." "I bought a case." Horse explained and then as Darius was walking away, he heard his friend yell."Go get her." Darius walked back in the room and Cynthia was on the balcony. Darius joined her and pulled her in his arms. "I've got to love you tonight. I know I gave the whole spiel, about being responsible and risk, and waiting. Honestly, Cynthia, I need this. I need you." As he was talking pieces of clothing was dropping. He stood before her completely naked. Cynthia could breathe, he was amazing. "Baby, please. Come here." He whispered. Cynthia rushed into his arms. He kissed her and slowly removed her clothing. He kissed every inch of her skin as he removed each garment, before long, she stood before him as naked as he was. Darius caressed her body with his eyes. Slowly his eyes traveled landing on the thick black bush at the apex of her thighs. "Fuck," Darius whispered, his cock leaking precum, "You don't shave." Cynthia moved to cover her body, but Darius grabbed her hands, "No. let me touch it. Then very gently he touch her body for the first time. Leading her over to the bed, Darius had to explore her body, with his hands and with his tongue. When he parted her thighs admiring the thick dark hair that was wet from her arousal he kissed her intimately for the first time. Cynthia's hips shot off of the bed. Darius licked her slowly, gently kissing, sucking, and nibbling, indulging in the taste that was his sweet Cyn. Next he laid on the bed and let her climb on top of him. He took a condom out of the box, and passed it to her. She wanted to stroke his member but they only had a little over an hour and other things to get to. Darius hadn't been with a woman in a while, but he prayed he didn't cum just from her touch. "Um, Cynthia. Just to let you know. The last time I was this excited and used a condom, it broke. So just wanted -." Darius ended with her kissing him passionately effectively ending his spiel. Out of the Shadows Ch. 03 Slowly and sensuously, she slid the condom onto him, and then carefully positions her hot opening over the tip. Then she slid down. "Oh God!" Darius screamed at the feel of her hot tight sheath encasing him. "Baby please, don't move. Give me a minute." He held her hips. Opening his eyes he saw her beautiful brown breast directly in his face and he had to taste. LaCynthia love the way he felt inside of her. He filled her and she needed to move. She pumped once. "Baby, baby, Cynthia please! Baby don't move." Darius begged her not to move right away. Then he moved and sucked her left nipple into his mouth. When he tugged on her nipple, fire shot straight to her hotbox causing it to spasm and grip his protruding member. "Uuunnggg, Darius," Cynthia groaned sensations flooding her senses, , "Baby I need," and she rode him softly. "I need to move." She whimpered. Unable to wait any longer, Cynthia began to ride him. By her third stroke, her pussy clamped down on his cock and they both screamed as they climaxed simultaneously. Darius and Cynthia held each other until they stopped shaking. Then she started to climb off of him. Darius stopped her. Stroking her cheek, he looked her in the eyes and whispered, "LaCynthia Knicks, I love you." She lay on his chest and whispered, "Darius Granger, I love you too." Then realizing the time, they cleaned up and dressed. Soon Danny and Kerrie were walking in the door. Kerrie smiled as she watched her two friends hold each other with an all knowing glow. The two weeks, break ended and each person had a plane ticket in hand to their destination for training. That Sunday, Marge insisted on preparing them a home cooked meal. Everyone was invited over, but the other member s of the family refused to let Marge do all of the cooking. So every one brought a dish. Jasmine prepared three dishes, Nick prepared two along with Deidre and Sierra. Derrick made lasagna because Dawn refused to let him go to the dinner empty handed. Dawn dressed comfortably in her pajamas held Marcus as Derrick dressed DJ. She knew he was worried for his brother again. "Derrick," she whispered. "He'll be fine. It's mechanical and repair training. Don't worry about him." Derrick was amazed that this woman loved him. He tried to hide his concern but he should have known he could not hide anything from his wife. "Baby, I'll be alright. Letting him go is hard. I won't deny that, but this is what my brother needs and I will be strong for him." He replied kissing his wife gently. "I just want to say bye to them and I'll be right back. Do you want DJ to stay with you too?" he asked "No, I'm fine. I just wish... Hug all of them extra hard for me," she told him. Derrick arrived at his parents' home where Darius's team was back in fatigues and heading back to training. Darius saw him and quickly rushed over to hug his brother. "Hey, Derrick, I'll be alright. And I will call you as soon as I can. You take care of Dawnie and those babies. Oh and Derrick, you guys check on Mom and Dad a bit more. They don't always tell you when something's wrong." He added thinking about his mom's episode. Derrick assented making a mental note to stop by daily to check on them. He'd tell Sierra to stop by more too. Soon it was time to head to the airport. Marvin, Marge, Deidre, and Jasmine, drove the recruits to catch their flights. After a while, all six team members were standing in the airport waiting on the planes to be called. Darius and his team had hugged every single person in the family. There were even more hugs and tears at the airport. Deidre tapped Cynthia on the shoulder and told her to be safe and make sure she called. Cynthia smile, and agreed and was embraced by the other woman. Another hard part was saying good bye to Marge, but Marge made her promise to call and check in. "Horse's flight was first. He held and kissed Maria and told her he'd call her as soon as he could. Then Danny and Darius' flight was next. Cynthia forgot to breathe, watching him walk away almost crippled her. Surprisingly, the one that understood the most was his ex-girlfriend. She rubbed Cynthia's back and assured her it would be alright. Soon Maria's flight was called. And the three girls shared a tearful goodbye. Finally, Cynthia and Kerrie boarded their plane. Marge, Marvin, Deidre, and Jasmine stood stoically as they watched the last two members of the team's plane disappear into the sky. Soon, everyone headed home and prayed the kids would be safe. By the next morning, all six kids had called and let the family know they had arrived safely. AI camp mirrored BCT in that they followed strict schedules and had to work hard. The team had been separated for six months when tragedy struck. Marge had a light stroke, but she was recovering. All of them wanted to go home, but since she wasn't a blood relative, they couldn't leave. Darius was granted temporary leave to spend time with his family. He wanted Cynthia. He missed her. One night, while he was home, she called and they talked for as long as she could before she had to hang up. His mother getting that sick, scared him, but he'd stay strong. Eventually, she was better, but he made his siblings promise to watch both their parents more closely. Soon after she was released from the hospital, he returned to base. Cynthia and Kerrie were having a hard time. They were placed on an accelerated training schedule. So they had to learn in two months what most army nurses learned in six. "Officer Knicks, I want you observing a lung surgery today." LaCynthia's lieutenant commander, Dr. Lowell Manson informed her. The man was ruthless, but he was good. Cynthia had gained more under his leadership in four months than most surgical nurses in one year." Cynthia originally wanted to be a doctor, but changed her mind when she saw how interesting the jobs of the nurses were. She was assigned to one of the toughest surgeons in Manglady Army Medical Center. When Lt. Manson, called her name, everyone cringed. Kerrie worked at the same facility under another lieutenant. Lieutenant Keith Garner. He was a psychiatrist and Kerrie was becoming a psychiatric nurse. Lt. Gardner was a kind, fair leader, who treated his students in a firm but fair manner. Unfortunately for Cynthia, LT. Manson did not do nice. She hated working for him, but he was the best. She wanted to learn from the best. On the weekend, Cynthia and Kerrie at least tried to get together, but most weekends Manson required Cynthia's presence at the hospital. One free weekend, Cynthia had a chance to talk to Darius. He was so happy to talk to her and encouraged her to stick to her guns. She only had four more months to go, before her AI training ended and she'd be back with her team. As soon as she ended the conversation with Darius, she quickly called Marge and Marvin. She explained she had to go in but asked them to relay her well-wishes. Three more months passed, and Kerrie and LaCynthia were nearing the end of their tenure. This was a special weekend. Kerrie and Cynthia were leaving the base with some other women to celebrate completing their programs. Kerrie and Cynthia were really excited, they would finally get to reunite with the rest of the team. The girls didn't stay out late because they both had one more day of duty and then it was done. Lt. Manson called Cynthia into his office. He spoke to her solemnly "Knicks, you should have gone into surgery, you're too damn good to waste your talent on nursing. You were the best I've trained. Congratulations." Lt. Manson stood to shake her hand when they heard a loud commotion on the floor. Both Manson and Knicks raced out onto the floor, so did Garner and Masters. Recognizing the patient as a combat officer suffering from PTSD, Lt. Garner tried to talk him down. Kerrie was standing right next to Garner and Cynthia's heart was in her chest. If something happened to Kerrie, she couldn't handle it. The soldier had heard enough and started swinging his weapon wildly. Someone screamed get down, and all Cynthia heard was gunfire, and she felt a sharp pain as she fell to the floor.. Kerrie, where's Kerrie? She was standing in front of the guyshe thought frantically, then she passed out. Within seconds the soldier managed to plow down everyone that was on that floor. At the end, the gun man place the barrel of the gun in his mouth and shot himself. Marge was watching her favorite game show, when the show was interrupted. The headline read"SHOOTING AT MANGLADY ARMY MEDICAL CENTER". Marge lost it and was screaming, sobbing, uncontrollably. Marvin ran in and all he could find was his wife screaming and pointing at the television. Confused for a moment, Marvin wondered what was going on. Then Marge sobbed, "Cynthia, Kerrie, Oh God Marv!" as he held her. A sense of dread fell in the pit of his stomach as soon as it registered that LaCynthia and Kerrie were assigned to that facility. Thank you again for reading this chapter of the story. Please remember to comment and vote.