1 comments/ 21852 views/ 4 favorites The Hiring Fair By: sweeteuphoria A note from the author: This story was inspired by a song of the same title. Special kudos as always to michchick98, my editor; along with baddaddy42 for introducing that song to me. To my readers, thanks for reading me, I hope you enjoy! * An early morning rap upon the door awakened Padraig from a sound sleep. "Ah bloody hell, who could it be at this ungodly hour? The roosters are still asleep for Christ sake." Sleepily, he shuffled to the door and opened it. It was then he remembered about the plans for the day. "Sorry Michael, I forgot. I 'll be ready in a moment though," Padraig said as he scurried from the room to dress himself for the fair. "Daniel kept me awake 'til the wee hours of the morn with his drunken gibberish, I hardly slept at all." "If we're going to have any luck at all today, we best get a moving along," Michael said, slightly aggravated about the delay. Padraig pulled his boots on and buttoned his shirt as they walked along the long dirt road to the grounds where the hiring fair was to be held. "I heard at the pub that there are supposed to be plenty of farmers as well as other's looking for help during this planting season. I hope I am chosen for a long, steady job," Michael said when he brushed the hair from his face and the sweat from his brow. "With the wife expectin' another little lad, I truly need the money." "Yes, you and me, both. Daniel, that lazy bloke, is going to freeload from us as long as he is able. I can see it now," Padraig spouted. A knapsack tucked neatly under their arm, easily identified the men and women seeking labor. Michael and Padraig picked up their pace when they rounded the bend and had seen the crowd. The sun beat down upon them as they mingled their way toward the front of the long line. Several rows of laborers filed in, awaiting the same; the hope for a job that would carry them through the planting and harvest season. The hiring fair was an annual event in this small town in Ireland. Partially to celebrate the end of the winter months, but also for the farmers to find seasonal help to get them through the harvest months. The farmers would wander through the crowds in search of young healthy servants. The cool breeze was a welcomed change from the baking heat on that spring day. The heat wasn't the only thing hot that day though. A woman in the next row caught Padraig's attention. He couldn't take his eyes off her. She's too beautiful to be standing out here in this heat. Perhaps if we get to the front at the same time I'll be lucky enough to have her as a neighbor. A farmer with a cart half loaded walked into the crowd and as he tapped shoulders, the blokes and maids climbed into the cart. To Padraig's delight, the woman he had his eyes on was chosen to work at the same farm as he. The ride to the farm was quite noisy, although Padraig seemed speechless. His heart beat in his throat every time that woman smiled at him. "Hey lad, what's the matter with you?" One man asked then laughed as another shouted out, "He looks like he's never seen a woman before, at least not this close anyhow." The workers on the cart busted out in laughter at Padraig's expense and he just settled in the hay, trying his best to ignore them and not show his frustrations to that one woman who had him so speechless. As the cart slowed the men and woman readied themselves to greet the farmer and his family. Michael and Padraig hoped they would be put in the fields together. "Don't let those blokes intimidate you, my friend. They are just jealous that such a beautiful woman is looking at you instead of them. They'll get over it and move on as the days grow long, I guarantee it." As the men and women jumped from the cart and brushed the hay from their clothing, the farmer's wife walked around in search of a young, healthy servant to assist with household chores. "What's your name miss?" "Finola Kelly, ma'am." "You'll do fine. Follow me and I'll show you to your living quarters." Finola smiled sweetly at Padraig as she walked past. "I think she's got a liking for ya, my friend!" Michael whispered, his head bowed and a pat on Padraig's back. "Hey, you two lads, come here," the farmer called out, pointing to Michael and Padraig. "You two seem young and healthy enough to handle hard labor. You will be in the fields. Go to that shed over there and unpack your things. We must get started immediately." Mr. McGee was sell off, however not as wealthy as some, so the lodging for the men was an unused byre with wooden cots stacked in one corner. Hay was scattered about the floor, blankets were neatly piled on bags of seed in another corner and makeshift pillows were supplied as well. The roof was solid and the building was big enough to house all the men. Padraig and Michael each took a cot, blanket and pillow then set up their bedding. They placed their knapsacks on the cots before heading back to the fields where the farmer told them to meet. "Okay men, my name for those of you who don't know yet is Mr. McGee. You can just call me McGee. I will be your master for the next seven months. If you give me a hard days work I will give you good pay and three meals a day. If you have any dirty clothing you need laundered, the women will collect them each Thursday evening after supper. All meals will be served in the dining room. You are expected to clean up after yourselves and there will be no eating unless at meal time. If you have a medical emergency, you will be taken care of here on my land…." The farmer continued with all the rules and expectations of his men while on the job and off. The men listened intently, except for Padraig, that is. Out of the corner of his eye he noticed Finola being shown around by the head maid. His eyes diverted from the fields to the back of the house and even from the distance he was away from her he could still see that warm smile, which had his heart beating furiously again, the same as it had while riding in the cart earlier that same day. "So now, does anyone have any questions?" The men shook their heads. "Okay then, you two go over there and start at that end." The farmer ordered pointing to Michael and Padraig. "The rest of you follow me. I expect to have this field cleared in two weeks time." Most of the men worked diligently with their hoes, shovels and scythes from sunrise to sunset that first week and by week's-end, they had the soil ready for the planting of the new crop of corn and potatoes. "I do thank God for this marvelous machinery. I remember doing all this by hand not that long ago," William said as he handed each man a bag of seed. "Padraig, come here lad," the farmer called out to him and he swung his tools over his shoulder. "Yes, Sir, you called me?" "Enough with the formalities, boy." "Yes, Sir, er…McGee." "I need for you to go work over by the edge of the field. I had to let some blokes go because they weren't productive enough. I've been watchin' ya son, and I'm very pleased with what I've seen so far. You're a good lad. Your father must be a proud man to have you as a son." "I'll get right on it, McGee." Padraig waved to his friend and pointed to where he was headed yelling out, "I'll meet with you for supper," then continued on his way. Fortunately for Padraig, the area at which he was told to work had a perfect view of the master's house. He'd seen Finola several times that very afternoon. Her duties had kept her indoors the majority of the time, but today, she had to carry water to the animals and then get them from the byre to the grazing field. She disappeared into the house after the last trip for water. That woman sure is a treasure, he thought to himself. That night, Padraig's dreams were filled with visions of his treasure. He'd dreamt of her body. What she might look like without all that clothing. Her curves beneath his fingertips and the firmness of her breasts excited him in his state of rest. The gentle flair of her hips when he would see her from behind as she walked away, her long brown hair cascading down her back only added to the pleasure, the torment. Knowing full well that when he'd awaken, she would be out of his grasp once again. Padraig envisioned her full lips pressed passionately against his in a heated kiss that neither expected. And these visions combined would carry him through the long hot nights. Morning came all too soon and after a hearty breakfast, the men returned to the fields to plant the remaining crops. After all the seeds had been sewn, the farmer acknowledged their hard work and gave each man the afternoon off. "I am curious what he has for us to do for the next few weeks," Michael said as he curled up on his cot for a welcomed afternoon nap. "I'm not certain, but I have seen that the byre needs a new roof and so does the house. I'm sure he has plenty of work for most if not all of us. Although I did see a few blokes leaving with pay in hand today. I doubt they will be back." "Well, I am guessing that we are in good now, since there are only a few of us left. McGee will need all of us if he's to get the crops harvested in time before the first frost." Padraig settled on his cot, closed his eyes and a smile crossed his lips, once again thinking of Finola. This time, he was in the fields and she had brought him something cool to drink. It wasn't the usual water; which was abundantly supplied; instead, a tall cold glass of lemonade. "Please forgive me for it being so sour," she said quietly with a blush. "There wasn't enough sugar left. I have to go into town with the mistress and purchase more tomorrow." In Padraig's mind it was the sweetest tasting drink he'd ever had, but it wasn't the lemonade he had tasted, it was Finola's lips, the encounter of her flesh against his tongue. He smiled in his sleep, but was abruptly awakened by the sound of the dinner bell and Michael tapping his shoulder. "Are you going to come eat supper or just stay here with that silly smirk on your face?" With a heavy sigh, knowing he had to leave his dreams behind, Padraig scooted off his cot and ran to join up with his friend. Now with so many workers gone there was plenty of room for everyone to sit and enjoy a hearty meal. To Padraig's delight, Finola was seated directly across from him this particular night. The mealtime conversation covered everything from the workers' backgrounds, family and expectations to what lay ahead for them. Everyone had contributed to the conversations; that is, except Padraig. His heart beat in his throat each time he'd opened his mouth to speak. He didn't know why he was so nervous every time he was around Finola, but he couldn't get a word out. Some of the men began teasing him. Finally the farmer's wife stood and asked everyone to simply leave Padraig alone. "When he's ready to speak, he will. Until then I will hear no more of this teasing. Is that understood?" She knew exactly why Padraig couldn't speak. The same thing happened to her husband the first time he'd seen her and again when he'd met her family. Michael also knew what was the matter and didn't harass his friend either. He'd seen this particular behavior just last summer when a group of females stopped in town during their travels. Nothing happened, but Padraig was smitten with one of the girls from America, yet he knew it wouldn't last long because they were merely passing through. "That was a mighty fine meal, ma'am," Michael offered as he stood to leave the table. "Are you sure you've had enough? There's still plenty of stew in the pot and bread in the basket, not to mention the apple barley pudding Finola made special for tonight's supper." Padraig nudged Michael before he could answer and he was unsure if he wanted him to stay or leave. Only he, Michael and Finola remained at the table. Michael returned to his seat and accepted one more bowl of the pudding. Finola served them both a generous portion then poured the heavy cream over the top before seating herself back at the table. "This pudding is just like my mother's," Padraig managed to blurt out. Finola was gracious with his utterance and thanked him, "I'm glad to see that you enjoyed it enough to have a second helping, Padraig." She wanted to learn more about him, but was hesitant to ask for fear that she'd embarrass him; so she quietly ate the rest of her pudding then watched as the men finished theirs. Padraig's heart beat wildly at the sweet sound of his name from Finola's lips. Michael let a yawn escape him and excused himself from the table for the final time that night. "Yes, I should be getting back to my sleeping quarters as well. Tomorrow promises to be another busy day," Padraig said quietly looking at Finola's hands as she cleared the table. He still couldn't look her directly in the eye and speak at the same time. He was definitely smitten with her, as she was with him. The men excused themselves and returned to their byre for a good night's sleep. "Mr. McGee informed me that we would be doing the work of a handyman until the crops sprout, so I am going to get some sleep. I suggest you do the same, my friend." Michael left the house as soon as he'd said his final goodnight to Finola. He was settled in his cot and almost asleep by the time Padraig arrived, which was a good thing for Padraig. His young hormones were raging from his time spent with Finola and he was in need of release. The heat of the night combined with the heat he'd felt when near his treasure caused a sudden film of perspiration on his aroused flesh. He walked to the byre where the cows were bedded and to the right was the well. He dropped the bucket into the hole and turned the crank, bringing up a fresh pail of clean, cold water, which he washed himself with. Knowing everyone in the house was asleep, or at least not going to venture outside any longer, he felt safe to remove his clothing to wash up a bit before he retired for the night. The water cleared the film from the dirt and the perspiration as he poured it over his body. He rubbed roughly over his chest, around his neck, shoulders and arms. The coolness of the water did nothing for his state of arousal and when his hand grazed his rigid cock he jumped. He knew he had to relieve the pressure that had built inside him. He finished washing then grabbed his clothing and jogged back to his byre. He set his dirty clothing beside his cot and grabbed his boxers. Padraig slipped out behind the shelter, leaned against the worn wood panels as he grabbed his shaft once again. A quiet sigh escaped his mouth when he pictured Finola holding his member as he stroked it. He envisioned her lips around the tender head and his hands grasping her soft locks. With these visions in his mind it didn't take him long to fulfill the urge. Padraig held back the loud grunts when his fluid let loose and when he'd finished, he slid the flaccid member back into his boxers. A smile raised the corners of his mouth with another vision of his treasure smiling her sweet smile as she licked her lips clean of his fluids. He returned to his cot, falling asleep immediately when his head hit the pillow. Dawn came all to soon for each man and they sleepily rose from their cots to greet another morning when the breakfast bell rang loudly. Michael searched for Padraig in the byre after noticing his cot had been made. "What's gotten you up so bloody early, my friend?" Michael asked, still wiping the sleep from his eyes as he stumbled from the byre. "I've been up for a while already. I heard a loud noise before daybreak and thought someone might be tampering with the crops. But, to my delight it was only Finola chasing around a chicken that had escaped her clutches in her attempt to gather the eggs for breakfast. I couldn't bear watching her chase that bloody animal or return to the house empty handed, so I gave her a hand." "It'll be a fine day, begorah! Providing we finish the roof before the night rain sets in." The farmer said when he greeted the workers as they filed in for the morning meal. The moment Padraig saw Finola enter with the platter of eggs and bacon, the memory of his activity the previous night returned with a jolt. He felt the pressure build immediately. Slightly embarrassed, he quickly seated himself and ate silently then excused himself as soon as he cleared his plate. "If you will excuse me, there's work to be done." With that, he left the dining room and headed to the tool shed. For the next two weeks the men, all given various jobs, repaired the roof of the house, byre and some things inside the house itself. The work was hard, sometimes tedious, but within the two weeks the farmer gave them to complete the work the men had done a fine job of that which the farmer requested. Padraig always chose the outside work because he knew he wouldn't be able to concentrate on his job with Finola so close. At the end of the two weeks, the men were given a day off from labor and to rest up before returning to the crops. Another dream intensified Padraig's yearning for Finola. When that morning bell rang, indicating breakfast was being served, Padraig just couldn't help himself; as the crops grew, so did his envy toward the farmer. He was envious that the farmer was able to have Finola so close whenever he needed a hand with something a female was good at. She was exceptional at mending socks and tattered overalls. Padraig knew that she was responsible for some of their meals and the woman of the house had been teaching her how to cook. He often daydreamed about what her other duties were that had kept her inside most of the day and she had always retired before him. Finola was young, barely eighteen and had come to the fair alone for the first time in her life. She was quiet and reserved. Although she'd never flaunted herself to him, he knew she was gorgeous beneath her clothing; he could see her beauty each time he gazed in her eyes. After breakfast the men were directed once again into the fields. "We need to get the crops back into shape again. The plentiful rain and abundant sunshine has fortified more than just the crops we planted." The farmer directed each man to a specific duty. Padraig's duty for the day was to go through each row of corn and pluck the unwanted plants and thin the crop of the struggling stalks. It was a tedious job, but Padraig was thankful to be left alone with his thoughts and daydreams of his treasure. Padraig worked steadily in the hot sun. The corn wasn't tall enough to provide the shade he would have liked. When the lunch bell rang he returned to the byre with a basket full of unwanted plants. He dumped them into the pile for burning later in the season. He placed the bucket back on the hook near the door before walking to the well. His shirt was soaked with perspiration from the heat of the golden rays from the morning sun, which beat down upon his back, not to mention the heat of his desire each time he had envisioned Finola. Padraig removed his shirt just as Finola walked out of the house to fetch fresh drinking water for the thirsty men. She gasped at the sight of this virile young man, shirtless. His muscles toned, his flesh tanned. She hid behind the byre when she saw him move. She didn't want to startle him, but wished she had the nerve to walk up to him, wrap her arms around his trim waste and tell him exactly how she felt. She too had visions of Padraig, but lacked the confidence to show him. She secretly wished he would approach her, yet was frightened that she would be a disappointment. While she waited for him to finish what he was doing she remained behind the byre, her legs spread slightly allowing the gentle breeze to cool the dampness between her thighs. The Hiring Fair When she saw him pass and don his shirt just before entering the house, her body responded once again. Her nipples strained against the thin fabric of her dress and the moistness of her sex seeped once again. She was mortified that others would notice her state of arousal, especially her master and Padraig. Finola slowly walked to the well, taking her time retrieving the bucket of water and returning to the house. By the time she'd arrived, most of the men had finished eating and were almost fighting over the water. She placed the bucket on the table and left the room. When she reached her bedroom and sat at the foot of her bed she recalled the speech her master gave during their orientation once they arrived at the farm. "There will be no shenanigans, no fighting and I will not tolerate any hanky panky between the workers themselves or any member of my family. If I see or hear of such happenings, those involved will be immediately dismissed without pay. Is that understood?" Finola couldn't bear to be sent home without her earnings, nor would she wish that upon Padraig either. She thought it best to just keep her distance whenever he was near. It will be difficult, but it's the only way, she thought as she tried to hide her emotions when a knock was heard outside her door. "Is everything okay, Dear?" the farmer's wife asked as she handed Finola a tissue. "I know something is bothering you, won't you tell me?" "I'm fine," she lied. "It's nothing," she lied again forcing a smile to grace her lips. "It's Padraig, isn't it? I can tell you have feelings for him. It wasn't that long ago that I felt that intense feeling of desire, of need. That craving that eats you up inside when you can't be close to the one who holds your heart." Mrs. McGee placed a comforting hand upon Finola's back and rubbed gently. "I'm sure if he feels the same way he will wait for you." With that, Finola dried her tears and returned to the dining room to finish her chores. ~~~ "Excuse me sir, we're lookin' for a young bloke by the name of Padraig MacCarthy. Would he be workin' for you?" A young man asked when he stopped in front of the farmer's house. "I do have a lad by that name here, yes. Why do you need him?" "We've been lookin' for him for a week now. I have a message concernin' his father," the young man handed the paper to the farmer and he read its contents silently. "Oh, dear God," was all the farmer voiced then headed into the fields in search of Padraig. He found him in the last two thirds of the cornfield. "Son, I'm afraid I have some bad news for you," the farmer said solemnly then handed Padraig the note from the messenger boy. Padraig read it and handed it back to the farmer. "Thank you for letting me know." Padraig returned to his work. "You have my permission to go visit with him. I have been watching you and your work is exceptional. I will grant you a leave to be with your family during this time of need." "Thank you, Sir, but my family will understand why I will not be home. I have made a promise and I intend to keep it. My family needs the money more than they need my presence while my father is mending. I have an older brother who will look after everyone." "Nonsense, young man. You will go to your family. They are more important than any job. I will have the stable lad arrange a horse for you. You will go and tend to your father's needs and return when he is stable. Is that understood?" The stable lad brought Padraig a handsome horse, equipped with a leather saddle and reins. "You will leave immediately. I will inform your friend and the other's of my decision. Now you go." The farmer assisted Padraig onto the horse and swatted its behind to get it moving. Padraig held on tightly as the horse galloped off. The commotion of the horse concerned the other workers and since it was nearly supper- time the farmer gathered everyone and informed them of Padraig's situation at home. "I have allowed the lad permission to go tend to his family. He will return as soon as his father is on his feet again." "What happened?" Michael asked, having missed the farmer's announcement. "Padraig's father had an accident. He was kicked by a horse, while helping his son, Daniel, at another farm nearby. Daniel was killed instantly. I sent Padraig home to assist his mother and father. He will return when he's able to. But until then, I'm asking that each of you pick up his slack." When Finola heard of Padriag's loss she was the first, well second behind Michael, to volunteer her services. "That's mighty kind of you dear, but this is a man's job," one of the workers spouted out as he walked away; angered that he had to do more work for the same amount of pay. Finola was angered as well; not because of the extra work, but because of that statement and she set out to prove the man wrong. After she had finished the supper dishes she walked up to Michael and asked him to show her what needed to be done. She walked into the field and with her bucket in hand began pulling weeds where Padraig had left off. She worked past dusk, until she could no longer see the weeds in front of her. Without a word to anyone, she walked to the byre and dumped the bucket into the pile then returned to the house. She walked directly to her bed and without undressing, lay down and almost instantly fell asleep. She dreamt of Padraig and felt him close to her even though he was so far away. ~ ~ ~ Three weeks passed before Padraig's return. He was thin and appeared withdrawn. He rode quietly to the byre and tied the horse to the post before entering the house to announce his return. "I'm back to make up for my absence, sir," he said in a low tone. The farmer and his wife had heard the sad news before Padraig returned. "I'm very sorry about your father, son," McGee said in a soothing tone with a comforting hand on Padraig's shoulder. "Thank you, Sir." "What about your mother, Padraig? You didn't leave her alone did you?" The farmer's wife questioned then handed him a cup of tea. "No, ma'am. I sent her to stay with her sister until my return after the harvest. She will be well taken care of there. Her sister has a large family and they were always better off then my family. She will not need for anything in my absence." Padraig insisted on returning to work immediately upon his return and the farmer knew it was best for him to do so. Mrs. McGee, however, felt he needed more time to grieve, but he wouldn't have any of that. He was a strong young man and now had to be even stronger being the man of the family. It was just after supper when Padraig returned and most of the workers had already retired for the night. All but Michael and Finola. They returned to the fields for there was still light and work to be done. "Padraig will be pleased with your thoughtfulness, Finola." As Padraig gathered his tools in the byre, Michael was informed of his return and knowing how he felt about the woman at his side, convinced her it was time to stop for the night. Finola agreed, she was quite tired and sore from all the extra work. She said good night to Michael and headed to the house. Meanwhile, Padraig was on his way to the field. "Aah!" he gasped, startled when Michael walked out into the path that led to the last few rows of corn. Without a word, Michael embraced his dear friend in a sympathetic hug. "What are you doing back already? I didn't expect you so soon." "There wasn't much else for me to do there, especially without money. I took mother to stay with her sister. I made a promise to Mr.McGee on that first day that I would give him full measure. I can't very well do that if I'm not here, now can I?" "Well, my friend, it's been a long day for all of us. Let's retire and start refreshed in the mornin'," Michael convinced Padraig not to push himself upon his return and together they headed to their lodging. "It looks like a storm is headed our way," Michael muttered as the two exchanged conversation quietly. Padraig hoped to get a glimpse of Finola before retiring for the night. He was unaware of her passing him in the field, but the visions of her were as clear as daylight when he was away. ~ ~ ~ Michael was correct in his statement; a wicked storm passed through overnight. When Padraig awoke in the morning, the air was cooler than normal. He scooted to the edge of his cot and instead of his feet resting on dry hay, he heard the sound of water splashing. He lit the lantern beside his cot and to his astonishment; the ground was saturated. A thick mud oozed between his toes. Immediately he righted himself, pulled up his soaked overalls and with one hand holding the lantern and the other holding the bib of his overalls, he ventured outside to check on the crops. The potato crop fared much better than the cornfield. The stalks were blown over and many were broken off near the root. He was devastated, to say the least. All that hard work. And for what? Wondering what would happen when the farmer awakened and saw the damage to his crops, he warned Michael. "Well, what do you suppose is going to happen now?" Padraig asked when Michael observed the flooded fields. With both hands on his face, Michael rubbed his eyes as if hoping he was seeing things. However, when he removed his hands and opened his eyes, the problem still presented itself. "Well, my friend, I suggest we start packing our belongings. From the looks of things out here, McGee won't be needin' us anymore. It's too late in the season to replant these crops and without the crops he won't be able to pay us; much less support his own family." Sadly, Padraig agreed and returned to their lodging to pack up the few things he'd brought with him. He sat at the edge of his cot, his head cradled in his hands. He felt sick to his stomach and his heart ached. He wasn't concerned about himself, but he was troubled by what the future held for the farmer and his family now that the crops were destroyed. He also felt ill at ease with the knowledge that he'd probably never see Finola again once they were all dismissed. He was too proud a man to allow others to see him in agony so he quietly finished dressing and folded his blanket neatly on his cot. He had to prepare himself to face the farmer, as well as the woman to whom he'd secretly given his heart. With his head held high he walked from the byre he had called home for the past couple months and met up with Michael and the other men who'd recently learned of their future on the farm. As Padraig approached, he saw the farmer walking away, his head hung low, fists clenched in anger. "What's the word, blokes?" Padraig asked one of the men who lagged behind. "Well, it seems there isn't enough work for all of us and McGee had to let some blokes go early because of the heavy rains last night." "Who's to be stayin' and who's to be leavin'?" Padraig questioned the man, but he didn't answer, he just held his head high and walked back to the byre, somberly. Padraig didn't want to bother him anymore, knowing exactly how he'd felt. That same fate could be his within moments, but first he had to find Michael to learn the truth. "There you are," Padraig shouted as he sloshed through the muddy field in search of his dearest friend. "So, what's the word? Should I put on my walkin' shoes?" "No, that won't be necessary, my friend. McGee has told me that he has enough work to keep us busy along with a few others, but he had to let most of the men go." Padraig was happy with the news regarding himself and Michael, but his gut wrenched once again for word of Finola's future. "Did he say who was stayin',?" He asked as he paced the field; his fists clenched and arms crossed over his chest. "Calm yourself, bloke. She's stayin'! McGee said that the misses would need all the help she could get to clean things up inside. I didn't see much of anything that needed to be cleaned in there, but I think she had other reasons for her decision." Michael smiled as he patted Padraig's shoulder. "Come now, there's still plenty of work to be done." Michael and Padraig returned to the house to see what the farmer wanted them to do first. With all the commotion of the morning, they missed breakfast. Actually, breakfast had never been made, but when they stepped foot inside the house the smell of fresh bacon wafted through the air. "Are you lad's hungry?" the farmer's wife asked as she hurried around the large kitchen preparing their meal. Both men smiled and Michael rubbed his stomach as he took his seat at the table. Padraig on the other hand seemed hesitant. His eyes panned the room then the remainder of the house that he could see from where he stood. No sight of Finola and his heart sank. After the food was placed on the table, the farmer's wife walked over to Padraig. With her hand on his shoulder she pulled him down so that they were face to face and she mouthed, "she's still here," then simply walked away. By now, the farmer suspected something was happening between those two. However, he had a fondness for Padraig and he recalled a feeling when he'd seen Padraig gaze at Finola; the same feeling he'd had oh so many years ago when first he lay eyes on his beloved wife. He knew he could trust the lad to get his work done first so he excused his behavior and invited him to the table. As the days passed the farmer learned his crops weren't a total loss. The corn stalks straightened with the heat of the sun and the rains held off long enough for the ground to dry out once again. The potato crop faired better than the corn because that soil had been dry to begin with; the irrigation machine had malfunctioned a few days prior to the storm. ~ ~ ~ Time passed quickly after that last storm. The days flew by as if only hours had gone by. The men woke with the sound of the breakfast bell. Sleepily, they rose to their feet, dressed for another days labor and headed to the house. Surprised by the farmer's words that it was harvest time, the men ate quickly. "There's no time for lollygagging now lads," he said, righting himself and heading toward the byre. He stood at the door and began handing out orders. "This will be a heavy task and I will need everyone working together on this if we are to get the job done on time. We only have a week's time, so let's get busy. The cows need to be fed and the trough filled, Finola can do that. When you are finished you will meet us in the fields." "Yes, Sir," she said quietly then went on her way to complete her tasks. "The rest of you, follow me," he said as they headed toward the potato field. Each man took a section, pulling the tubers from the soil and placing them in a bushel basket. When the basket was filled, it was carried to the storage bin and the men would return to fill another basket until the crop was harvested. "We can stop at the next row me friend," an older man told Padraig and Michael. "That crop 's not ready for harvestin' yet." When they finished with the last row, they took their baskets to the storage bin and then located the farmer for another job. "We will need help with the corn. You two go over there," he said, pointing to the edge of the crop, "and start your way back here. We'll meet in the middle." Michael and Padraig each grabbed a burlap bag and swung it over their shoulders as they headed for the farthest corner of the lot. "This shouldn't be all that hard, at least we get to do it standing up," Padraig said then laughed. The cobs were easy to remove from the stalks and the men made it look easy as they pulled and dumped ear after ear into their sacks. "Oh bloody hell, what do you think you are gonna do with that, lad?" Michael questioned as he yanked a knife from another workers hand. "I'm usin' it to cut the corn off if it doesn't come easily." "You're gonna get someone stabbed if ya do it like that. Here watch me, lad," Michael added, showing the young boy how to properly harvest the corn to save the husk and not bruise the kernels beneath. It would take the men too long to harvest all the corn so the farmer called for everyone to join in. This meant the women worked side by side with the men. Padraig didn't think they should have been forced to work in the hot sun, but when he saw Finola, he quickly changed his mind. As the women removed the remaining corn from the stalks, Michael and Padraig worked with their scythes to remove the remaining stalks so a new crop could be planted. This second crop was to feed the animals throughout the coming winter; when the fresh grasses and hay were no more. "Slow down there, bloke. 'Tis not a race and there's no finish line," one of the workers shouted to Padraig as he swung his scythe with all his might. He was nervous having the woman of his dreams so close to him, watching his every move. He could feel her eyes upon him, even when she wasn't looking his way. Eventually, he had to stop swinging that tool to pick up the stalks that had fallen and toss them into a pile. By this time Finola had caught up with him and she assisted with gathering the stalks. Padraig felt like a schoolboy whenever she was near. Every time he went to speak he couldn't. He cursed beneath his breath because of his tongue-tied youthfulness, but also prayed she could read his mind and would know what he'd felt in his heart for her. With the mere mention of her name, every part of his being shivered. His skin craved her touch, her heat. His heart skipped a beat whenever he heard her sweet delicate voice. He never felt this way about a woman before but often heard his mother tell stories of how she and his father had met. And when he recalled the description of the feelings she first had, he knew it was love he was feeling toward Finola. He was unable to concentrate the closer she'd gotten to him and he hardly spoke a word for fear that everything would come out wrong and he'd end up looking the fool. He was courteous to her though and nodded when she spoke to him, smiling brightly each time he'd blush from her words, or when he'd gotten caught looking at her form from behind. The way her dress clung to her hips, the way her hair framed her lovely face. And when her breasts pushed against the stalks when she'd gather a bunch and carry them out of the way, Padraig envisioned his chest and loins against her instead of those stalks. It had taken the workers the better part of the week to clear all the land for the next crop but when all was safely gathered, they were finally able to rest. Padraig wandered to a clearing where fragrant wild flowers continued to bloom. He sat and stared into the night's sky. The sun had almost set but the view was amazing. The hue of oranges, red's and pinks blended together to form a tapestry in the clouds. Although that view was amazing, it wasn't nearly as breathtaking as the vision that appeared beside him. Padraig was pleasantly averted from the heaven's masterpiece when Finola crept up quietly and sat beside him. Her smile was gentle, yet seductive and for the first time, Padraig felt her longing, her desire to be with him. His trembling fingers touched her arm when he attempted to brush a fly from her dress. She grabbed it gently and placed it on her breast. Her heart skipped a beat with him so close and finally able to feel his warmth radiate through the material of her dress. She wanted him so badly she could taste him when the breezes blew his scent her way. Her need to have him closer intensified with each breath and she seized the moment. She turned to him and slid closer, so close she could feel his breath on her cheek. She leaned in towards Padraig and all his senses reeled. He could hardly breathe, but that didn't stop him from showing Finola his true feelings. The Hiring Fair Startled when she pulled away from him, his head bowed, his face sad. "What did I do?" "It's nothing you did Padraig, but I --- we, I shouldn't do this yet. I am horribly dirty and this is not the scent I wish for you to remember me by." Finola scooted away from Padraig, embarrassed by her appearance. Dirt smudged on her face and embedded in the crevices of her skin. She smelled of earth and thought it to be unpleasant for Padraig. He cupped her face in his hands and as he lay on the scented ground then placed a soft kiss on her parted lips. His desire was going into overdrive but he controlled himself enough because he wanted this first time to last. " "You will do no such thing, Dear. I want you now. I want you just the way you are. I'm not letting you out of my sight tonight. You are the most beautiful thing on this planet and if you don't get over here beside me, I'm going to burst." Finola's returned to his side. Her contours glowed with the setting sun. Her touch was like fire on Padraig's sensitive flesh. And with each touch, she delivered a greater passion. Her moves were erotic and Padriag was in heaven. He allowed her to take the lead and that she did. When he released her face she tore off his shirt. "I want you terribly right now. I haven't time for all these buttons. I'm sorry Padraig," as he heard the buttons popping from the force of her desire. Finola leaned toward him and trailed soft kisses of fire down his neck to his shoulders and beyond. Padraig's hips rose to meet hers as she inched her way down his form. Planting kisses strategically on her journey. When she reached his chest Padraig let out a heavy yet contented sigh. He was in turmoil because she was taking her sweet time to reach his special place. His cock throbbed in anticipation of her moist lips, but more, her soft pussy. He'd never in all his days had a woman treat him this way and he loved each delectable thing she was doing to him. She continued on her journey south. Her lips and tongue caressed Padraig's burning flesh. Every touch of her tongue to a new spot had him jerking and groaning in pleasure and torture the same. "I want to make love to you, Finola. Please let me make love to you," he pleaded between groans. With each attempt to pull her off him, he failed miserably. He wasn't miserable though, quite the contrary. She was insistent upon her delivery of his first orgasm. At least she hoped she was his first. She scooted back up his body as he trembled uncontrollably. He reached for her dress and yanked as hard as he could to remove the top part. He was unaware that she had already unfastened the buttons that confined her breasts beneath the dress. When the top fell freely to her waist she stood to let it fall to her ankles then stepped from it. Padraig watched with the eyes of a child on Christmas day. He panted to keep from fainting; she was so breathtaking. Her dark brown hair cascaded softly over her shoulders and down her back. When she removed her undergarments, he also removed his clothing. His cock sprang to attention when his union suit fell to the ground. He kicked them aside hurriedly, almost tripping over the leg when it caught under his foot. Padraig's desire raged now and he wanted nothing more than to take this woman before him and throw her down to the ground, however, he knew if he did that she would protest and probably reconsider her advances toward him. Slowly, he guided her to the scented ground. One arm about her waist, the other supporting her shoulders, they descended. Hearts pounded with excitement at the first skin- to-skin contact. Padraig felt his blood boil when her soft curls touched his abdomen. His hips immediately rose to greet her and their heat intensified once again. The passion in her kiss and the heat of her touch almost sent Padraig over the edge, but he held on. Reaching for his overalls he opened them as best he could for her to lay upon when he'd roll her beneath him. Straddlig her thighs he devoured her with his eyes before following suit with his eager tongue. He needed to taste her, to inhale her to pleasure her the proper way this first time. She deserved more than that, but Padraig was set for time and the situation wasn't as he envisioned his first time being, but he made the best of what he'd had. With all the passion his heart held, he slowly grazed his hot tongue over her form, lavishing her in erotic pleasure. As his tongue moved over the curves of her breast he slowed his movement, causing Finola to gasp and beg him not to stop. Her body writhed beneath his. She clenched her fingers in his curls and pushed his face against her straining breasts. He gasped for air but after a deep breath he continued his assault. Moving down her body he teased and tortured her by taking his sweet old time to bring her the pleasure he so wanted to deliver. All his nervousness banished the closer their bodies came to becoming one. As he moved down her form teasing and pleasing, she urged him on. "Please Padraig, take me. I want you so much. I want to feel you inside of me. I want to make love to you, now!" Her breath heavy, her voice rang with lust. To urge him on, she wrapped her legs around his waist and raised her hips. The tip of his shaft grazed her pussy and she gasped then moaned as his voice calmed and soothed her. "Relax, love. It will feel better if you just relax and not rush this. I will not hurt you, I promise." Padriag was amazed at how natural everything seemed as he made love to his treasure for the first time. For only having overheard discussions of a woman's body and what happens during sex, he was astonished how terribly wrong the older blokes were when it came to satisfying a woman. He slid further down her body; his chest passing over her moist curls. He shuddered with the first whiff of her sweet scent. Propped up on his elbows he slid one hand against the outer region of her sex and she moaned appreciatively. Her hips rose to his hand, pleading for more. Padraig happily obliged. With his tongue, he went down once more lapping slowly. The combination of his saliva and her juices created a slick path in preparedness of his insertion. Once more over her tender pink lips and her body stiffened. A look of fear covered her face momentarily but was quickly replaced with lust, desire, need to be taken instantly. Padraig lapped faster and harder at her wetness and couldn't help but smile as the waves crashed through her. Her legs stiffened then convulsed involuntarily for several seconds. When she regained control of herself she raised her legs over his back and pulled him closer, tighter to her sex. When her convulsions ceased, he returned to her face for a kiss incomparable to that of any other she'd experienced, even with Padraig. Moments passed before Padraig pulled away from her and inserted the tip of his manhood at her opening. She was so slick and hot. She felt him hesitate and pushed her hips against him, forcing his rigid member to penetrate her. Slowly he'd thrust into her warmth. Her muscles milked him ad begged for more. One last cry for mercy, "Please Padraig," was all it took for him to thrust one final time and he was past her protective sheath. A soft whimper escaped, but had quickly been replaced with a warm satisfying smile. The need to see her face during their lovemaking forced Padraig to pull his throbbing cock from her tight slickness. He pulled her up and repositioned her across his lap. She straddled his legs, facing him she slowly eased herself back down over him; accepting every inch of his thickness deep inside without hesitation. They slowly rocked in unison until she could hear his breathing deepen, then pant. Finola bent her legs and rode Padraig until his seed erupted deep inside her warmth. She continued until he collapsed to the ground. She remained still on him and felt his shaft slowly deflate; a look of sadness covered her face, yet remained in position. When she felt Padraig's breath return she writhed against him a second time and within moments he was ready for more and his rigid tip pressed against her secret spot. She smiled and the heat intensified once again. Padraig thrust into her fiercely and she in turn writhed against him and their orgasms peaked simultaneously. Short of breath, they collapsed against the soft earth. Perspiration glistened in the moonlight as the new lovers caressed and cuddled. Padraig cradled Finola in his arms until both had regained their strength. The night was peaceful and all was quiet until, from the barn, drifted the sound of a violin. "We should be getting' back, Love," Padraig whispered, his treasure still safe within his arms. He reached for her clothing and helped her dress; tasting her once more before her flesh was covered and out of reach once again. As she sat to put on her shoes, Padraig dressed and pulled on his boots, laced them then helped Finola to her feet. When they entered the barn all the workers, the farmer and his wife, even a few neighbors danced in the lantern light to celebrate a successful harvest as the music filled the air. Padraig pulled Finola close to him when the violinist played a slow song. He escorted her to the sawdust-covered ground and as they swayed to the music, he closed his eyes and prayed, "Thank you God and the stars above for the harvest moon and the girl from the hiring fair!"