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Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 01

By: Egmont Grigor



The rising summer sun caught Victor Haig in its yellowish glow as he walked along the riverfront. 

Vic was in his late thirties – a man with nothing. Correction, he had a near clapped out car and residing in his rented room were his alarm radio, TV set and other assorted possession that packed into a suitcase and six cartons.

Two wives in quick succession – each with a child not fathered by him – had engaged good lawyers to systematically stripped Vic financially. So for the third time he moved on to once again start from scratch.

This time was different: this time Vic had a plan. He was looking for a woman who'd been through the mill herself.

Observers might dub Vic a 'loser'. Well, he certainly acted like one. Vic's problem had been he'd twice shared part of his life with two women who didn't really love him and were too smart for him. So the plan was to find a discarded woman who was no smarter than him. From this it appeared the unemployed computer technician was a capable of being a problem solver in his personal life.

Okay, let's go find this woman, Vic decided. First he tried the bars but found all the ones who responded had a husband or boy-friend in the bar who stood looking menacingly at Vic; those unattached he approached were prostitutes. Not wanting a crushed skull or an STD he decided to look elsewhere.

The 'personal' columns in newspapers and internet dating sites were as unfruitful as the bars – the women were either married and keen to have a hot night with someone new or appeared promising but specified someone tall, dark, handsome and wealthy which left him out of contention on every count. So the medium height, dirty blonde, crooked nosed guy on a social relief benefit stood at the end of the wharf looking at the rush of the outgoing tidal stream contemplating shortening his future when a in his head a hooter sounded: Patrol the riverfront at dawn!

Yes, that was it! His brain had figured that as everyone fucked at dawn – they did, didn't they? – then if he were a female discard what would he do in despair at dawn when there was no-one to plug into any more? Of course, go down to the riverfront to watch the sun rise and weep.

Two mornings in a row Vic found a distressed woman but unfortunately both were still attached although dissatisfied with their man. Both opened up to him verbally and seemed to be taking a bit of interest in him sexually, as far as he could determine. But after an earful of moans because of both women's emotional overload, Vic decided he'd have to sharpen up his selection process and not be too much in a hurry to grab some pussy. So here he was, on day three working to The Plan.

Vic looked along the stretch of esplanade. He could see three hunched females on the first six or seven seats. Time for action. In each case he nodded an early morning greeting but was ignored. The first woman was worth a miss – she looked about sixty. The second with big tits was a real possibility until Vic spotted a lap dog nestled in under those boulders. He moved on because he disliked dogs who liked women. He immediately veered away from the third target after suspecting it was a male in drag.

Well, Rome wasn't built in a day, Vic thought philosophically; try again tomorrow morning, buddy. He walked on to the wharf to watch the seagulls feeding. He sat on a seat to rest. A little later, sizing up what was about to happen he said, "Ma'am, I wouldn't advise you to jump at this moment. The tide is full so you'll only stay floating where you jump in rather than being washed out to sea with a whoosh. Wait another hour or two."

At first the woman with the long dark hair didn't answer, didn't even look back at him. Then she stepped back, turned and said, "I wasn't contemplating jumping." After a pause she added, "Will you talk to me?"

What a ridiculous question, he thought. Why waste his time with someone who hadn't yet hit the upswing from being a loser. Then he saw the tits – real beauties.

"It would be my pleasure. Come, we'll sit on that seat over there. Want me to fetch you a coffee – there's an all night bar just opposite?"

"Thank you – a touch of milk, no sugar."

Vic returned with two coffees and two chicken bread rolls, unsure whether she'd be there. Most likely she'd taken off; but no, she was there staring down to the river to the sea.

She said, slightly thickly, "If the tide had been streaming out, anyone accidentally falling off the wharf would be out there, probably crying for help."

"Nah, the sharks wait for food at the end of the sandbar. They line-up like people at a diner."

"Thanks," she said, taking the coffee. "Oh God, how awful. Sharks!"

"They're okay – just a little enthusiastic about eating anything that looks like food. Does it matter?"

"Yes it does. What if I were, um, floating down with the tide for a swim. Think of this lovely body of mine being ripped open by sharks. Ugh!"

Vic's answer was an uncontrolled reflex. "You have a lovely body?"

Instead of answering she stood, faced him and opened the light wrap. "Tell me if I'm exaggerating."

The pink lacy bra contained beautifully two exquisite orbs, two darkish nipples peeping over the top. They were among the five top brace of breasts Vic had ever come close to laying hands on. The slightly rounded firm looking belly looked ready to be licked and kissed. His eyes slid over the matching panties that outlining a plump camel-toe and then his gaze met rosy flesh bulging slight over the top of thigh-high stockings; he almost ejaculated on the spot.

"Very nice, I agree, cover it up quickly," he admonished hoarsely.

"Well, if you insist," she said a little haughtily. "I am used to being admired."

Vic recklessly decided to confess. "Sorry, it's almost a month since I've come this close to a nubile woman."

"Oh, you poor darling," she cried, a motherly tone in her voice, pulling aside the bottom of her panties. "Oh look; I'm, dripping."

"Hey you, over there; beat it. The notices say no loitering."

Vic opened his eyes to catch the malevolent red-rimmed eyes of the female uniformed Port Authority security guard. He turned to shake awake his sexy companion, but she wasn't there. Nor were their coffee paper cups and the two bags that had contained the rolls.

"Move it buster," she said, swinging her baton, her whistle in her mouth.

"Okay, I'm going," Vic said and walked off the wharf. There was no sign of the thirty-something woman and there was no twenty-four hour bar opposite either. The sign stated "Opening hours 10am – 10 pm." 

Damn sleep, cussed Vic. Dreams like that I can do without. Well, I'll try again in the morning – but no falling asleep on patrol, you mutt, he admonished. That's no way to find a woman who needs you.

Strolling along the tree-lined promenade, hearing the town clock chime 8:00, Vic saw up ahead two youths struggling with a woman who was screaming, "Leave me alone your scum."

Vic raced up, seized one of the guys around the hips, upturned him and dumped him into and empty refuse bin, where he stuck by the shoulders, his legs waving comically in the air while he yelled for help. His mate let go of the woman and crouched waiting to repel Vic's attack. 

Vic threw a very weak left; the guy grinned and unleashed a powerful swing from below his knee to Vic's jaw which Vic ducked as he kneed the guy between his legs. That guy fell to the ground, doubled up and screaming.

"Come," Vic said urgently but lowering his voice to avoid frightening the woman. "Take my hand and let's run."

They ran, not talking, and at the first opportunity went up the steps from the promenade and on to Riverside Highway. There was a diner opposite them.

"Breakfast?"

She looked hesitant.

"We'll be out of sight in there should those two hoons come looking for us."

She nodded, pale faced and wide-eyed. Beautiful blue eyes actually. She attempted to free her hand but was unsuccessful. Vic led her across the now busy highway. This time he knew he wasn't dreaming because he felt the warmth of her hand.

As they climbed the steps he asked, "Why were those hoons molesting me? Do you think they mistook me for a hooker?"

"How could they possible think that?"

She eyed him gratefully. "I'm Nina."

"Hi Nancy, I'm Vic – Victor Haig."

"My full name is Nina Alice Raymond. Thank you so much for saving me. I'm nothing but trouble. My mother died three weeks ago and my father has gone to pieces. I have been unable to console him. He arrived home last drunk last night with two women and threw me out of the house, warming me never to return."

"He'll think differently today after a good sleep and a big breakfast."

"I don't believe so. He'd doomed and has decided to die. He's drinking heavily and has been shouting that at me for days on end; it's been terrible."

"Okay, enough of that. You need coffee and something good for the soul. Have whatever you want on me."

"Oh, I really can't accept that. Besides, I owe you for saving me."

"You pay for dinner tonight."

"Then I'll be seeing you again?"

"Yes, you come and stay with me in my room."

"Just you and me?"

"Well, if you have other people with you we'll do our best, but it is a smallish room."

She saw the smile and giggled. "You're funny."

"You're cute. Take a table by the window so we can keep an eye out for those hoons."

As she demolished a small stack of pancakes, Nina asked why Vic wanted to sleep with her.

"You are very attractive, I haven't been with a woman for a month and the most compelling reason is there's only one bed, no sofa."

Her full lips turned into an unspoken 'Oh' and then, "That's perfectly acceptable to me. Far better than going to a soulless hotel."

"You have enough money to stay at a hotel?"

"Yes."

"Then that's what you should do. Don't stay with me; I'm a nobody."

"I've hit the bottom, Vic. Right now I'm a nobody. We only shifted to this town a year ago so friends are few and I was employed in my father's business." She smiled shyly, "After tonight would you consider hitting the road with me?"

"Yes, what a great question. Um, do you fuck strangers?"

Nina gasped. "Pardon me; no don't answer. I heard the question clearly."

Vic waited until she found composure and re-engaged her brain. "I am not a virgin but I'm rather inexperienced. Sex rather scares me. Why did you ask that so bluntly?"

"Oh, I was thinking about our schedule for tonight but became stuck because I don't know if you do anal."

"You're kidding me – please say you're kidding me," she pleaded.

"Yes, Nina. Just testing to see how you would handle it."

"You embarrassed me greatly."

"Oh yeah, sorry. Apart from being a nobody, I'm not a refined type of person."

"Well, as I allowed my middle aged neighbour and a cousin to fuck me I cannot be too refined either."

Vic frowned and said there was no need for confessions or to talk tough. He'd prefer her being her natural self. Nina countered that in her natural mode she was rather too weak for her liking; she'd prefer to toughen up.

"That will happen if you stick around me; but I want you to remain a lady."

"Oh, how lovely; the best of both worlds. It's a deal, Vic but we're not slumming it. You tutor me about looking after myself in the real world and I'll meet all our travel and accommodation expenses – is that a deal?"

"But that's so much on-sided." 

"Not with this extra provision: I shall require you to fuck me regularly."

"Ooh, what a lovely arrangement," the woman arriving with the coffee pot murmured.

Vic found out that Nina, an only child like him, was twenty – he'd picked her to be twenty-three. She'd been thrown out of college after attempting for the second time to offer monetary bribes to get higher marks.

"I was under pressure from my father to get top grades," she explained. "Mostly I am honest."

Vic said his parents now lived in England. After high school he studied and became a certificated computer technician and worked in the home computer sector as a trouble-shooter and upgrading systems. He not longer found the work interesting. He married at twenty-four in too much of a hurry, only finding out two months into the marriage his wife was pregnant to someone else and remained unfaithful to him. He endured that for three years until she sought a divorce to marry someone else, taking her child with her. Three months later the woman he'd befriended claimed he'd made her pregnant so they married and five months after he'd first met her she gave birth to a full-term girl, then admitting it wasn't his child. She became bored with him and returned home to live with her parents after a year. In the terms of settlement for the divorce she wanted to take the children and tabled a big claim for money for the infant's upbringing. Vic agreed to those terms, escaping near penniless but a free man.

"God, what strife you've had," Nina sympathized. "I do hope you find the perfect mate."

"Yeah, so do I. Shall we go?"

Nina inspected the room which contained a bed, bench basin, refrigerator and cooker; Vic shared a bathroom and toilet with the residents of three other rooms.

The first thing she said was, "God, do you live here?" and being crossly told yes continued her quick inspection and decreed, "Well at least everything is clean."

Vic looked at her. "Do you want to do it now?"

Nina glanced at her watch.

"Don't you do it before noon?"

"Stop it, you're making me nervous. I've told you I'm not very experienced. I was thinking after lights out this evening."

Vic's mouth fell open. So she smiled and held out her arms. "Come kiss me and work me into a state. If I get to feel nice you may find yourself lucky."

He walked over to her and they hugged and kissed sweetly. Then Vic broke away and said after lunch would be fine. They should plan for an early start in the morning. He asked did she have a vehicle.

"Yes, much better than your wreck," she said. "It's a four-wheel drive, only a year old, parked back near where you rescued me."

"Why did you leave it there?"

She squirmed. "I thought I should ride with you in case you had second thoughts about me. You seem so exciting so I didn't want to risk you running out on me."

"Nina?"

"Yes?"

"If you don't trust me walk out now. I'm not hitting the road with anyone who doesn't trust me."

"Me trusting you? What about your trust in me?"

"That's your problem, not mine. Go now if you don't trust me."

"God, you're hard. All right, I trust you and you can fuck me whenever you want. Does that give you confidence about the way I regard you?"

"Yes."

"Well, what about you trusting me?"

"With me, Nina, trust is something between two people. Now that I know you trust me, you have my trust. This isn't an issue any longer, is it?"

"No, I guess not. This is a peculiar way to begin a relationship but I must say I feel a lot more comfortable about teaming up with you, very much more comfortable. What do you want to do now?" Nina said, eyeing the bed.

Vic suggested resuming discussions about tomorrow. It was agreed they should travel in Nina's SUV.

Soon afterwards, he dropped Nina off at her vehicle. She went off to buy camping gear to be self-contained when they decided to stop out in the open. Vic went to his landlord to give notice and paid a further two weeks' occupancy as two weeks' notice was required. He then sold his vehicle for $400 at a dump of a car yard, or a hundred bucks more than he expected. He and Nina met back at his room for lunch.

"There is no food," Nina said, looking into the fridge.

"I usually just have a tin of baked beans which I heat in the can in a pot of boiling water and then eat with a packet of biscuits."

"Would you mind if we don't economize and go out and have lunch at a restaurant?" she asked "I'll pay, gladly."

They walked to the local shopping centre and choose Japanese.

"This is very civil," Vic said, impressed.

"Yes darling, you'd better get used to it. I'm afraid eating out of tins is not my thing."

"Nor mine. But since I've been unemployed and on a benefit I have been forced to live frugally. Hey – you just called me darling. Did you mean it?"

"Well yes, since we are now living together we should live in every respect like partners."

"May reach under the table and touch you?"

"Not here, darling. But that request does suggest we need to establish a code of behavior, mainly for your benefit."

"Whatever. How many times have you been penetrated?"

Hesitating for a moment, Nina said, "Six times and one near miss."

"A near miss?"

"I was in a crowded train carriage and this man lifted my dress, pulled my panties back and had his dripping penis almost into me before I recovered from shock and kneed him."

"God, what happened next?"

"He turned green and vomited over the guy standing next to me who punched out his lights. He disappeared to our feet and we all pretended nothing had happened. I left the train at the next stop and waited fifteen minutes for the following one."

Vic frowned and said it was disgusting. "Fancy everyone leaving that poor guy decked. He could have suffocated in his vomit."

"He appeared to be a foreigner and looked villainous, so sympathy was not rife amongst us. You are teasing me, aren't you?"

"Well spotted – yes."

Nina smiled and changed the subject. "You'll be gentle with me, won't you?"

"Yes, initially."

"Why only initially?"

"It depends how you react and what I must to do to properly respond to your passion."

"How will you know? I lie stiff, half petrified with my eyes shut."

"I wonder if you really have been fucked, Nina? If you had been wound up and were really cooking, you'd been gyrating around their pole and yelling."

"Me? Never, there's probably something wrong with me."

Back at the room as they talked Vic began seeing more white of her eyes and realized she was on route for a panic attack. So he went to the fridge and pulled out a bottle of wine; they'd not imbibed over lunch.

"Ugh, what's this?" she asked, looking at her glass after a taste.

"Mendoza Stables Table White."

"How much did it cost?"

"A dollar fifty on special."

"It's filtered horses' piss, I'm sure of it."

"Don't be churlish. You're imbibing for the 14% alcohol."

Soon Vic no longer saw excessive white around Nina's green eyes – in fact that now looked large and luminous and she was talking non-stop and had giggling bursts whenever he said something remotely humorous.

Vic stood behind her and began massaging her shoulders.

"What are you doing?"

"Preparing you for sex."

"Do you know what you're doing; shouldn't you be fingering my pussy?"

"That will come."

She giggled.

He leaned forward, cupped both breasts and kissed her gently behind the left ear.

"Oh God, that feels good," she sighed, reached up and holding one of his arms, her other hand resting on her stomach.

Vic reached down the front of her dress and pushed her bra down.

"Don't you have to unbutton my dress first and fumble with my bra hooks? Good heavens, how did you get you mouth on my breast like that without undressing me?"

There was no answer. "Hmmm," she sighed.

Eventually he did unbutton her dress and fumble with the bra hooks. 

"Time to stand up," he said.

"Oh God, I feel as if I'm floating," she said. "Want me to help?"

"No," he said, unbuttoning the top of her dress and pulling it over her head. Vic waggled at each of the three bra hooks and finally they parted and he pulled off her bra, drawing an 'Ouch! as one strap caught.

"You have great tits."

"I know," she giggled. "I do see them rather a great deal."

"Suck your nipple for me."

"Good gracious. No.

"Come on, I want to watch. That should then make you feel sexy; me also."


Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 01



She acted shyly but then did it.

"That turned me on," he whispered into his ear. She caught his head and kissed him deeply, opened her mouth and their tongues met.

Just as he was thinking some guy must have had the nous to teach her to do that Nina pulled away and said, "Is that want you intend doing to my cunt?"

"Eventually, yes, but first let's get you out of this gear. By the way, take note I don't care for panty hose but I love women in stockings – held up with garter belts is okay but I prefer thigh-highs as they are the sexiest leg covering."

"I'll buy some and throw out my panty hose. Panty hose is so convenient but if sexy is what you want, sexy is what you'll get. As they sat on the bed she colored and asked, "Your intention is to fuck me every day, isn't it?"

Vic looked at her concerned face and decided to tell the truth. "Yes, and then some: at least for as long mutual desire continues to embrace us. Lift up and I'll pull off your knickers." That worked fine, very coordinated. 

Settling on to his hip and working on a breast, Vic ran a hand over Nina's slightly rounded stomach; she moaned encouragingly. His hand continued down and he found, as expected, she didn't shave but it was far from being a near impenetrable forest. His finger danced around her hair-protected vulva and then one finger went prospecting. 

Nina jumped as the finger moved up the slit and Vic heard her breathing stop. It was true – she was becoming stiff, her joints locking. This was no way for a lady to act, he thought. She was nicely moist so he broke usual practice and began lightly strumming her clit, immediately feeling her begin to relax a little. Then she commented with unexpected frankness, "God, that's lovely; you do it better than I manage."

At that moment Vic knew a great sex life lay ahead of them. She knew her body and wanted him to know that. The poor darling must have been poorly treated by males – probably relatives were involved.

Nina's breathing became rhythmic and she said, "You haven't asked why I haven't had much sex?" 

"It's a sensitive area; I assumed you'd mention it in due course."

"Like during intercourse," she giggled.

"You have the type of humor I like," he grinned. He moved the massaging finger down, turned it and inserted another alongside it and her legs opened as he simulated the action of a penis.

She managed to hold some of the grin. "My mother first became ill when I was a teenager. I'd guess sex became difficult for them and gradually my father became more and more surly and began staying out late on Friday nights. Often I'd hear mom crying and staying she could smell another woman on him. But we survived. Soon after I turned eighteen he gave me a big lecture about me not becoming promiscuous, that I must save myself for marriage. Then in the early hours of the morning he began visiting my room. I had the choice of fighting him, letting him have me or leaving home."

"You poor darling."

Nina looked at Vic wide-eyed and then continued: "I refused to allow him to touch me between my legs or to kiss me. He agreed and we settled into a routine of twice a week he'd make this visits, arriving with an erection and would climb over me. He'd get me to lick his thing and then he'd either squirt off between my breasts or into my armpit. That was incest, wasn't it?" Vic smiled softly. "Technically I'd say no, definitely not." Tension went out of her face and she reached to touch his cheek as she said, "Thank you, I needed someone to say that to me."

"You've never told anyone else?"

"Only a couple of my closest girlfriends. But one was regularly having full sex with her father and the other was wishing her father would take a similar interest in her."

"Did you think about going to your mother?"

"Yes, many times, but I always decided it was best she didn't know. I like to think she never knew."

"Do you want me to stop doing this?"

"No, please don't. It feels lovely and my body feels sweet. I'm really astonished about this. Not even my uncle or older cousin ever made me feel like this."

Vic remained silent, shocked.

"Apparently my father talked to Uncle Bob and he must have let on to his two boys, one older and one younger than me. The three of them – but never together – would grab me and grope but rarely did I allow them to fuck me and never Uncle Bob or young Andy."

These disclosures were taking Vic off the boil. He thought perhaps it would be best to end the session but her breathing was becoming erratic so he decided to at least get her off. He turned over on to her and backed down until in licking position. As his tongue parted her now very wet lips she convulsed, screamed and coated him.

"Oh God, that was so amazing, by far the best release I've ever had, and I've always done most of them. Are you doing to put that thing in me now?"

"Nina, let's go slowly, eh? I think it's the best for us both."

"Okay – but give me a look at it."

Vic unzipped and his now very erect dick popped out unassisted.

"God it's big. Allow me to do something for you."

Torn between this beautiful young woman jacking him off or his responsibility of leading her gently along the path to satisfying sexual fulfillment and learning to relate romantically, Vic remained staunch.

"Just kiss it once and then it's being put away for later. There is no rush for us to do everything."

"I guess you're right, Nina said, taking her time over her kiss.

Late that evening they lay in bed, Nina fully aroused with her juices mixing with Vic's saliva drying around the tops of her thighs and his cum across her tits and face and into her hair, she opened her legs and said, "Let's do it."

Vic was in no shape to refuse such a delightful request; his dick was back to being raging hard. He rolled Nina on to her side and lifted her top leg high.

"Can we do it this way?"

"Oh yeah," Vic said, beginning to feed in his dick slowly.

Instinctively she arched her back and held her leg herself, working to provide straight-line entry and leaving Vic's freed hand to grab the other tit.

"Oh I feel so full – this is lovely," she cried, when Vic was only half in. He decided that would be sufficient this time.

"Rock back on me – oppose my action and let's try to maintain pull and thrust rhythm," he whispered, then bit lightly into the back of her neck.

"Oh God, oh God – do I like this," she cried excitedly, pushing back erratically and making it impossible to maintain good rhythm. But he just smiled, enjoying her excitement and pleased that in her choppy movements she was sucking more and more length into her vagina which reshaped to accommodate him and fit around the presumably welcomed intruder.

"Are you on the pill?"

"Yes," she panted. "One never knows my mom always told me."

"Do I shoot inside you and let fly up your back."

"I've seen DVDs. Don't we jump off the bed, I fall to my knees and gobble you."

"Gobble me?" enquired Vic, turning red in the face, veins in his neck becoming prominent as he threw his head back and shouted, "Sorry – here she blows."

As they rested she declared, "God I'm sweaty and can feel your stuff dripping out of me."

"I'll wear a condom if you don't like cum oozing out of you. Some women..."

"No, I think I'll learn to like it – it probably will make me feel sluttish."

"So you want to feel like that?"

"Yes, and depraved. I've read widely about this you know. I want to experience all these emotions but I'm not sure about anal or being your slave."

Vic's deflating dick, about to pop out of her, began to revive. The poor darling, he thought, she won't be up to multiple orgasms just yet, so pulled out. 

She reached back with a hand and grabbed it. "Your cock is all sticky, small now and ever so soft. Is some of that wetness from my cunt?"

"Yes. Tell me, who taught you to use such words as fuck and cunt? Most classy women like you use alternatives like sex and vagina. You even call your breasts tits."

"My father and my older cousin liked me talking dirty to them. Don't you?

Vic gulped. He hated the word vagina but then he didn't want her speaking like a whore when she moved on to someone else. Oh hell!

"I promise when you finish with me I'll use the proper words when I go looking for a husband."

"You definitely promise?"

"Yes, definitely."

"Right you dirty slut, always talk filthy to me. I like wallowing in it. Besides, I'll teach you everything I know so am entitled to get a little something back."

Nina sucked in her breath. "You won't do anal with me – promise."

"No promise. I'll not do it though until you request it."

"Well, that achieves the same result. I view anal as the most disgusting thing about sex, worse even than having your own father pawing at you."

To be continued...



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 02



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who mistook her for a hooker – or an easy opportunity. The previous night Nina was thrown out of home by her mentally unbalanced and recently widowed father. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her father. Vic invites Nina to spend the night in his room. They appear compatible, both describing themselves as 'nobodies'. Initial sex goes well and they in the morning they'll hit the road with no destination in mind. Nina has the cash and a good vehicle. What she wants from Vic is to be toughened up for real life and to learn about loving sex.

* * * 

Vic awoke with a great erection ready for action but lifting his head saw Nina had just showered and was drying her hair. Of course – the poor darling wouldn't be aware a dawn fuck was a great way to start the new day.

"Hi, come over for a kiss."

"Not with that thing sticking up like that," Nina grinned. "Come on, let's pack and hit the road, stopping for breakfast when the mood takes us."

"Sounds good," Vic said getting out of bed stiffly, watched by his companion who spoilt her apparently couldn't-care-less pose by staring at his erection.

Vic skirted her and went out to the bathroom shared with other tenants. He whistled as her showered, something he hadn't done for many a day.

Nina handed Vic the keys.

"Are you sure."

"For as long as you are my lover I'll always want you to drive me, providing you are sober."

"Lovers, eh?"

"After what you did for me yesterday, and to me, I now have a rather soft feeling for you. Just keep it coming."

"Aye, aye, ma'am."

They drove away without looking back at the building containing Vic's spartan rented room. Nina leaned over and rested her head against his shoulder.

"Thank you for driving me away from daddy, Uncle Bob and the boys. I'll put all that behind me now. You're on your own daddy – when you die I hope you die in comfort."

"You're not planning to see him again?"

"No, it was mom who I loved and she responded, always."

"That's really sad."

"What is?"

"The wrong one died."

Nina burst into tears, pushing her face into his shoulder. "Thank God someone thinks like me; I've been harboring that thought even since learning she was terminally ill and daddy began turning surely. I felt so guilty being judge and jury like that."

"It's very difficult to control thought. I reckon your judgment was severe but very understandable and in my book very acceptable. Rest against me and think – slowly your mind will clear and you'll become happy again."

"Then we'll stop for a fuck."

He smiled. "No, then we'll stop for late breakfast."

Almost an hour later he stopped the vehicle and remained seated. She stirred another forty minutes later, stretched and eyed him looking at her chest. She pushed it out even farther.

"I don't have to teach you about sex," he grinned. "You've had a lovely sleep."

"Where are we?"

"Half a mile up this secondary highway. Look across there."

Nina looked beyond him and saw the sprawling house set amid a flowering rose garden. She pulled up her sunglasses and read the sign: 'Farmhouse Meals Dawn to Dusk.'

"It looks lovely. Let's eat in the garden."

"No, the best place is to eat in the kitchen. The farmer's wife will have made bread early this morning and the smell of it will be still wafting through the kitchen. She'll be fat and jolly and a superb cook just dying to talk her head off, unless I'm mistaken. I grew up on farms and know this is an experience you should not miss."

"Well it seems rather wishful thinking to me – farms and farming people are no longer like they were when you were a boy. Oh come on, chin up. I didn't men to make you sad."

They knocked on the open door.

"Come in through to the kitchen," called a cheery voice.

Nina distinctly saw Vic cross his fingers. She partly held her breath.

They entered the kitchen and a plum red-faced woman with flour on one cheek beamed and said, "Hello – who do we have here? Father and daughter calling in for breakfast, I do declare."

Vic's mouth dropped open but closed quickly when he heard Nina giggle.

"This is Vic – he missed out being my father so has done the next best thing and become my lover. Greetings, I'm Nina."

"Good gracious – Vic's fallen on his feet getting you as his play thing," the woman giggled. "I'm Sinéad Murphy but everyone in this district knows me as Ma Murphy – you can call me Ma. You two will be running on low with all that sex. Bacon, eggs, pancakes and thick buttered toast – does that tickle your fancy?"

They nodded.

"We go outside if you wish – the roses are lovely, but if that's not what you're wanting stay in here and talk to me. I like company, being left along all day. Would you like some Irish whisky – my father gave it to when he was last over here from Ireland? It's reputed to keep your juices flowing – you know the ones I mean. Oh don't become embarrassed, Nina. We all know what it's for – I certainly do after mothering seven children."

"Seven!" exclaimed Nina turning white.

"Ah, you young women thinking having one child is the biggest thing you face in your face and having two ties you down for the rest of your life. The secret is to have several as they tend to look after each other as they grow older which means you are left with nothing better to do that to start working for another on."

Waving to Ma Murphy as they drove off with two loaves of fresh bread, three boiled egg, washed tomatoes and lettuce to have as a picnic lunch plus a big apple pie with clotted cream, Vic snorted, "Wasn't she fantastic – just like the old days?."

"She was like a character out of an old film. I just loved her and was almost overwhelmed by her. Thank you for making that experience happen."

"My pleasure."

"Let's go to the old mill she told us about, near where Ma was born. We could find a spot to camp out for the night alongside the stream. The nights are warm so we can just erect the roof of the tent – it's one of those with zipped removable sides. We can have our lunch to dinner."

Vic said that sounded fine and stopped at the next village and bought four bottles of wine.

The mill looked picturesque but was in poor repair, a sign warning visitors not to go inside because the floor boards were rotten. However the water-wheel had been maintained in good order and creaked away in a repetitive three-bar tune. They stood watching it, Nina leaning on the rail fence, Vic standing behind hugging her. Before long he'd cupped a breast and not receiving a caution moved his other hand on to her belly and began gently stroking that area. 

The response was almost immediate – Nina began pushing her butt back into him. His cock stiffened so Vic did what came naturally, lifting up her skirt and then unzipping.

"No, not here – not out in the open like this," she said thickly.

"It's all right, we're alone."

"What if someone arrives?" she said, now a little worried.

"I'll pull your skirt down and step back. We'll look like two innocents."

She didn't answer so Vic assumed rightly he had the green light. He licked his fingers to wet her slit but no additional lube was required. She was wet, very wet and moving her hips, indicating she was nervous and ready.

Nervous meant the possibility of a change of mind, so Vic dispersed with a little foreplay. He rubbed the tip of his dick over her puckered asshole; she gasped but that concern subsided when she realized it was moving, targeted at a lower entrance. She drew a leg apart; had she read about that or had she moved instinctively, Vic wondered. She claimed to be inexperienced and he had no reason to disbelieve her.

His dick began docking. running in smoothly until both grunting as his groin made contact with her ass cheeks.

"Lovely," Nina sighed. "It feels long and thick in me. I pull back as you pull out and then attempt to return at your speed – right.

"Right – you're very wet so don't be concerned at the squelchy noise. If we break into a sweat our thighs will collide with a slapping sound."

"Gotcha – should I pull my tits out for you?"

"Yeah. What a sport you are; thanks."

It was a beautiful fuck in a very tranquil locality. No-one drove up the road so they banged away unhurriedly until his level of panting rose suddenly.

"I don't think I'm ready yet," she complained. "You're swelling inside me." Vic reached under and flicked a finger tip gently across her clit four or five times.

"Waaaaaaugh!" she screamed, silencing the birds in the trees near them. She convulsed and Vic began pumping into her, eyes closed and breathing heavily through his mouth, dribbling slightly. When his eyes were focusing properly he pulled out and watched his cum mixed with her juices drip to the ground.

"Look at that," she said, still panting and looking under the top rail. "We've just made a lovely cocktail – want some?"

She was joking but Vic decided to take her up a level. "Yeah. Feed it to me baby."

Nina caught some of the goo and held out her fingers to be sucked. "I can't believe you are doing this."

"It's easy when the adrenalin is buzzing. Try some."

"Okay, but don't complain if I spit it out."

She sucked her fingers and went "Hmmm. It's okay but nothing remarkable."

"No, but it's the act of being watched by your lover swallowing that cocktail that makes it so special – it's the ultimate in sharing part of yourselves."

"You're kidding me."

Vic grinned and said like most things about having sex; most of it is not recommended practice. "If we really thought about it, most of us wouldn't indulge in sex – not even kissing."

Vic drove the van across a field to camp for the night within a semi-circle of trees, far enough away not to be unduly disturbed by the multiple creaking water wheel. He awoke in the morning under the canvas canopy to find Nina had packed everything not been used and was waiting to pack the tent.

"Hi sweetheart. Great sex last night – one of the better blow jobs I've had in years. Next time you must swallow."

Nina ignored that. "I've packed up. I want to go home and check on daddy; I'm worried about him."

"But you said..."

"I know what I said earlier but that's changed; my conscience is telling me to go check on him. I'll not rest until I do that and it's what mom would have wanted."

"Can't you call him?"

"In my dream he wasn't in a fit state to answer the phone."

"Well, if that's the way you feel you should go to him."

"Thank you. Does that mean you are not coming with me?"

"It does – I have left that town forever. Leave the camping gear for me; I'll stay here."

Fifteen minutes later they kissed and Nina said she'd be back around 6:00 that evening, Vic had checked the map and said the next village was approximately three miles away; he'd walk there and back to fetch supplies. The exercise would do him good and help fill in the day.

Watching Nina drive away Vic was unable to suppress the thought; he wondered if he'd ever see her again.

By 9:00 that evening Vic convinced himself Nina had abandoned him. He wished he'd taken her cell phone number then he could have called to ask why she'd done that to him. He emptied the last of the wine into his glass, sitting on the grass with his back against the rail fence looking towards the waterwheel which he now could barely see. He thought he'd better head back to the campsite and prepare late dinner.

"Ahoy there."

"Hello," he answered, knowing it wasn't Nina.

"Hi," said the woman aged about forty. Her accept was slightly foreign – Australian perhaps. She was lugging a big tramping pack and wearing boots. "I was hitching a ride which terminated a mile down the highway. I saw the sign Ye Olde Waterwheel so thought I'd take a look. Is that wine you're drinking?" Obviously she could make out the bottle and glass.

"Sorry, just finished the last drop."

"Bother, I'm as dry as the floor of a bird cage. Well it's really too dark to see much here. I'll camp under this tree for the night. Do you live nearby?"

"No, I'm camping by the woods over there against the skyline. Want to come over for a wine after you've pitched your tent?"

"Are you alone?"

"Yes."

"No thanks."

That instant rebuff annoyed Vic. "Suit yourself; I thought Australians had a sense of adventure which implies risk, but I'm not in the habit of forcing my attention on strange women."

"I'm not an Aussie, I'm a New Zealander. Did you mean a strange woman or a woman who is a stranger?"

"Does it matter?"

"To me it does."

"The latter."

She laughed and said she was delighted not to be considered strange. May I change my mind and come over to you for that wine?"

"Yes, I assume you have a flashlight."

"Yes."

"Well once you climb over the stile just across from us it's a smooth walk across grass, about two-fifty yards. I'll have a lantern up showing to direct you. My name is Victor Haig; call me Vic."

"I'm Peg Winslow, a university senior lecture in human biology, I'm in your country on a tramping holiday and hitching rides between main points of interest."

"Welcome to our country. I'm a computer technician who has become work-shy so am on extended holiday. If you decide not to come over I'll understand. If you really are brave you can come now and camp under my canopy. I pose no threat to you."

"So you say."

"Fine, please yourself."

Vic was climbing the stile when Peg called, "Wait, I'm coming with you. I'm just unpacking my flashlight."

After a steak and three vegetable dinner cooked on the camp stove they talked and drank wine till after midnight and then went to their separate beds.

Around 8:00, with the sun streaming in, Vic decided to try his luck.

"Peg?"

"Hi Vic, what is it?"

"I've woken to the new day with this erection. Is it of any interest to you?"

There was a pause then she climbed out of her sleeping bag; she was nude. "Just let me have a pee and brush my teeth and I'll be right over. Keep it up Vic; I haven't been pleasured for some weeks."

Peg's tits were large heavy hangers, but droop didn't worry Vic who believed a tit was a tit whether it was big or small, close together or far apart, high on the chest or sprouted from half-way down towards the navel. She shaved but needed regrowth cleared; that wasn't of concern to Vic either.

"Oh, nice one," she cooed, spitting into her hand and wrapping it around Vic's cock and twisting a little from side to side.

Vic sighed, now aware this was a woman who knew what she was doing.

"Any objection if I suck and wank it simultaneously?"

"Not if we do a sixty-nine and I can do anything I wish with that pussy of yours."

"Be my guest; it's crying out for attention."

They rutted all morning between rests. She refused to swallow and kept handing him condoms as if she had a dispensing machine in her backpack.

For late lunch they had biscuits, chocolate and coffee. 

Vic more or less complained, "I can scarcely stand, you're drained me."

She smiled. "What about me – I feel almost stretched in two and expect I'll be sore for some days. But I'll have fond memories of you while coping with that inconvenience. Well, I best be off to arrive somewhere nice before nightfall.

Vic walked out to the highway with Peg and she's barely started walking when a car containing two white-haired women stopped and their offer of a lift was accepted; Peg who didn't look back at Vic.

At 2:00 next afternoon Vic left the campsite tidy and abandoned it, walking out to the highway and thumbing a ride. A man and woman in a pick-up stopped.

"Where are you heading to, son?" asked the man in a straw hat. He looked about fifty, the woman a little younger.

"Just anywhere up ahead. I've been on extended holiday and my companion has returned to her home so I'm back to thinking about work."

"What work do you do young man?" the woman asked.

"I fix computers."

"Oh, I thought you might do farm work."

"I grew up on farms – cattle farms. I wouldn't want to work with pigs, sheep or dairy."

"We raise cattle."

"Herefords?"

"Why yes."

"A breeding unit or do you buy in yearlings and grow them on to sell to finishing units?"

"Hop in son, we need to talk," said the farmer who introduced himself as Joe Black and his wife said Vic must call her Hannah and not Mrs Black. 

On the 60-mile drive to the crossed T - H ranch of 32,250 acres Joe said they have sufficient wranglers but required someone to manage the arrival, accommodation and entertainment of guests with anything from four to fifteen arrivals most days with the average length of stay being three days.

"This is big business," Joe said.

It must be, Vic thought. Say an average of 10 guests on the property at any one time; that meant gross revenue of perhaps $2500 a night at the peak of the season, perhaps falling to under $1000 a night during winter. Joe said they were in a light snowfall area.

Before arriving at the ranch Vic had agreed to work on trial for a month. He'd have a woman assistant and Joe asked that he'd also take responsibility for trying to get the software they'd purchased up and running so they could take back the on-line booking system currently being administered for them by a local travel agency. 

Vic agreed to the terms of engagement. He couldn't believe he'd even contemplated a return to farm-life but as they arrived and he saw the guest cabins dotted around the big lake and the sprawling ranch-house and Spartan bunkhouse and other farm buildings, he felt he was coming home to his roots.

Vic's room was in the homestead and he ate all his meals with Joe, Hannah, their mentally disadvantaged son Roy and Vic's elderly assistant Mrs Peters.

Two weeks into the trial, Hannah came running to Vic's office.

"Vic, I've just seen an advertisement on TV of a woman on film appealing for you by name to contact her. I went off to grab a pen but when I returned the ad had finished."

"Did the woman give her name?"

"Yes, she looked about twenty and called herself Nina."

"Oh God. She's my girlfriend; I lost contact with her."

"Well she must be wanted you really bad – it costs big money to advertise on TV. I had the feeling I vaugely saw the ad earlier."

"What, are you sure?"

"Yes, I think so. Come back to the house and sit with me. Perhaps the ad is running every hour – they often do as morning rates are much cheaper."

The ad was screened forty minutes after Vic had sat down with paper and pen.

"That's her," he called triumphantly as Nina appeared on-screen appealing for missing person Victor Haig or anyone knowing him to call her. SAhe had found his campsite abandoned. The phone number appeared in large print."

"Got it," Vic cried gleefully.

"Here, use my cell phone," Hannah said. "Invite her to stay here for as long as she wishes. If she really is your girlfriend and you have been sleeping together I'm move you to a larger room. I really don't understand how anyone in this day and age can lose somebody?"

Vic said he'd fill her in later. He first called Nina who almost blasted his ear-drum asunder with her wild whoop. She cried and said she was sorry. She'd returned home to find her father unconscious in bed, a heart attack apparently brought on by his heavy drinking. He lingered on and died three days ago; the funeral was yesterday.

"I'm sorry."

"So am I but it's over now. Where are you?"

Hannah stood on the porch with Vic waiting for Nina's arrival. Nina had phoned as soon as she turned in on to the property.

"Good luck Vic. I'll just say hello and then go; you'll want to be left alone."




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 02



"No, it's best we temper our excitement and sit with you and have coffee. She'll not be grieving her father's demise but will nevertheless feel emotional about his passing."

"That girl deserves you Victor Haig."

Vic grinned and patted Hannah's shoulder. 

Nina drove up to them one handed, wiping her eyes with her free hand. Vic opened the door for her and she virtually fell into his arms saying, "I'm sorry, I'm so terribly sorry – I should have given you my phone number. Oh you must have felt abandoned."

Remembering being accommodated between the warm and very active thighs of Peg the biology lecturer only twelve hours after the dust of Nina's departing vehicle had settled, Vic had the grace to hide his embarrassed face on Nina's shoulder while whispering sorry.

"Me – you're worried about me?" he said, genuinely surprised. "You were the one suffering all that grief; it must have been terrible for you. But tell me later darling – this is my co-employer Hannah Black. She only answers to the name Hannah."

"Hello young lady. Oh my, aren't you just the cat's whiskers. You're beautiful."

"Thank you for providing a refuge for my lover I carelessly lost."

"Refuge? Your young man has more than proven his worth in the short time he has been here. Last night Joe and I decided that if I liked the look of you I'd offer you Vic's job. Then after Vic has trained you up we'll promote and train Vic to manage the operations of the ranch on a year's contract. By then our daughter will be bringing home her husband serving out his final year of his five-year contract running a huge cattle station out of Darwin, Australia."

Vic looked as astonished as Nina.

"But why would you want to do that – we're what do you call them, um, greenhorns. I've never managed anything?"

Hannah pulled the screen door open for them to enter her and Joe's private quarters as part of the ranch-house was subdivided into self-contained suites for 'guest ranchers' who required total luxury. "Your man signs your praises – he's told me how competent and intelligent you are. He told me he forgot to ask you for your phone number – he took the rap for that oversight. It had me thinking we need business minded people who are good thinkers running out operations, not trying to convert compliant ranch-hands. Joe has had a heart bypass operations and has to slow down. Please say you accept."

"This is so unexpected," Hannah, Vic began. "I'll have a word with Nina over-night and in the morning..."

"We accept, thank you Hannah," Nina said firmly. "We both have come adrift from society and need to settle back in and re-adopt good values. At present Vic regards me as a sex object and traveling companion. I know he needs more than that."

"I could handle all the sex on offer when in my twenties," Hannah laughed. "Nina's called you, Vic. It's your move."

"I'm well out of date with ranching..."

"Joe and I reckon you have retained good basics. You talk conversationally as if you've never been off your parents' ranch and Joe's seen you helping the boys out and you ride as good as any of them on the bikes and better than most of them on a horse. We think ranching could be in your blood, Vic."

"Well, if you have that amount of confidence in me, I'm willing to commit to that year staying on here. I love the life-style."

"Done deal. Joe will sign you up after dinner tonight. Now let's have coffee. Then I'm putting you two into the Mountain View suite. Just pull the curtains shut and while away the afternoon in your reunion. Our guests won't return until around 5:00 because they're gone way out on a cattle drive and as you know Vic the incoming arrivals from 2:00 are all booked for lakeside cabins and the mini-bus of South African tourists have chosen the bunkhouse. You'll be left in your own private world for a whle."

Embracing in their suite, Vic said, "I'm glad you were there for your father's death; as you said it's what you mom would have wanted."

"Thank you darling. What a sweet thing to say. Vic, with my father's death I inherit his estate which is considerable because my mom was a wealthy woman in her own right. I..."

"If you don't mind honey, in this stage of our relationship I really don't need to know about your personal financial standing. But if you want a second opinion about anything just give me the bare details and I'll do my best to assist. I feel not knowing keeps us better balanced in my mind; as you know I was broke before I met you but now am on a reasonable salary."

"Okay, I was excited about telling you but will curb myself because I accept what you say. How many people work on this spread?"

"About forty, including part-times such as fly-fishing tutors, water sports organizers, outdoor guides, shooting and horse riding instructors and even a permanent medic. To look at Joe and Hannah you'd think they are two-bit dirt farmers and yet here they are diversified on the remnants of a spread farmed by her family for generations and running a million dollar business."

"Ranch."

"No, business. They probably gross well over $2 million a year – perhaps three."

"Wow."

Reaching for Vic's zip as she pushed Vic back on to the bed Nina asked, "Why do they value you so much?"

"Because I've upgraded their computer and purchased an easier to use booking system, so they are taking their own bookings again and that's saving them ten grand a year in fees to the outside provider. Joe and Hannah have been naïve babes with their two computers but I've purchased new farm-based software with help wizards that make it child's play for them to completely track their financial situation in both the guest and ranch businesses. As well it gives them access to the most complete analysis in the ag market, which their financial clerk can manage with ease as she's a graduate of a low-level business school running a year-old course for the likes of her. Then I supported their farm manager to upgrade from simple ear tags on every Hereford to an electronic system which records the input on a database everything done or known to have occurred to each animal including, of course, registering weight gains at weigh-ins which is the bottom line purpose of raising cattle."

"So now they are promoting you in appreciation? Oooh, look at this; I've missed you baby," Nina murmered, licking the length of the erection she'd pulled out and then dribbling on the tip like a pro.

"You might think that, but they are a very canny couple. They don't think they've drained my potential yet and will still pay me under-market rates because they know I'm here for the life-style and...Oh, baby, you're never before taken it in so deep. Flicking your tongue around it like that and you'll soon have me drained of my full potential."

When pulling away to lick from his balls to the tip, Nina said when she was home alone for a rest from sitting with her father at the hospital, she'd hired some DVDs with the intention of learning techniques. "One woman even explained to the camera how to deep throat without gagging."

"Must get your more DVDs," Vic groaned.

They fooled around for almost two hours, both pulling back at times to keep the pot boiling, sweat half-blinding them. Finally Vic sprawled on the bed, pulling Nina to straddle facing him.

"Ah, I know about this one," Nina said softly, as they watched his white dick with angry red patches disappearing into her cunt. Vic placed his hands under her cheeks and lifted her, she quickly pushing up herself. As they fell into rhythm – she doing most of the work – Nina asked, "What's this position called?"

"Cowgirl," answered Vic watching her tits flying out of control.

"Oh fuck," he groaned as his eyes rolled into the upper sockets and he began pumping a huge load up the channel of his bouncing darling with her super-active tits.

"Have your pulled a muscle," Nina puffed, looking at his anguished face as he fired the first ejaculation. "Oh God, you're coming!" she screamed and then whooped as she began to repeatedly spasm.

"Oh, that was wonderful. Can we do it again right now?"

"Mercy," croaked Vic, wondering if he would ever be able to walk again or even lift a finger. He grinned at the excited beauty smiling above him like a sexual assassin.

Oh God, he thought. Why didn't I team up with a good fuck closer to my own age?

"Rest darling," she cooed. "You've never fucked me between the tits. Can that be next?"

Vic decided at that moment all adult DVDs must be banned.

To be continued... 



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 03



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who mistook her for a hooker – or an easy opportunity. The previous night Nina was thrown out of home by her mentally unbalanced and recently widowed father. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her father. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina's SUV with no destination in mind. The next morning Nina decides to go back and check on her father and doesn't return. Vic is without her phone number so assumes she'd abandoned him. He thumbs a ride and is picked up by ranchers who end up offering him a job looking after their 'Ranch Guest' bookings and managing that side of their twin commercial operation. After her father's funeral Nina returns to find the campsite abandoned so goes on television broadcasting an appeal for Vic or anyone coming across him to call her. The co-owner of the ranch spots the ad and Vic ends up calling Nina. They reunite and she is offered Vic's job now that the computer systems are sorted and he's about to be promoted operations manager at the ranch.

* * * 

Vic awoke to find his dawn erection already filling Nina's mouth. He considered it amazing that a novice like her could become so great as deep-throating simply by watching a tutorial on TV.

"You're early on the job," he grinned, stroking Nina's hair affectionately. Presumably she considered it rude to answer with a full mouth; she settled for widening her eyes and then winking. That erotic almost caused Vic to lose it and pump a prelude to breakfast into her, but he was glad he visualized being gored in the bullring which allowed him to switch off that ejaculation because the sexy fireball would no doubt have further action in mind.

She did. She pulled away from his dick with a soft 'plop!' Sweeping her hair back into place and panting slightly she commanded, "Fuck me between the tits if you're up to it."

Vic knew what she was on about. The previous afternoon she's went head to head with him in their resumption to sex and finally had him stretched out, exhausted – in fact legless

Already she'd generated a slight coating of sweat between her breasts through the exertion of deep-throating and now she spat on her palm and added that to the valley.

"Waste of time," Vic grinned, thrusting three fingers into her nicely lubed pussy, causing her eyes to widen and mouth to drop. He explained, "Pussy juice is what we need; remember that." He walked on his knees over Nina and slicking the valley with his three fingers he added a smear around his dick and began thrusting away, watching her staring at him with wide eyes.

"God, I could fuck like this all day," he said with bravado.

An egoistical lie of course. A few minutes later he was sucking in extra air as she instrinctively squeezed her tits against his thickening dick.

"Want to swallow?" he grunted.

She nodded and opened wide. Without losing too much momentum Vic cupped her neck to lift her head up and closer; the upward thrust was now practically touching her lips. His eyes fixed on those full lips and gleaming, very even white teeth. Then she pushed her tongue out flatly; sighting that sexy organ emerge was too much – he exploded. Vic watched in awe as part of him squirted into her mouth, some of the discharge falling away from her lips, her tongue chasing after dribbles of the lumpy white fluid. Somehow she even managed to make the house-cleaning part of that action seem sexy.

"Ooh, you haven't deflated," she said with the evidence in her hand. "What should we do now?"

"Clean up and go to cowboy time breakfast then I begin teaching you about guest management systems. You'll learn most of it within a day, being you, but I have been given three days to do it."

He was pleased, thinking she'd realize his confidence in her being a quick learner would be appreciated. His mouth fell when she said airily, "Three days you say – that must be Hannah assuming we'd spend at least half each day fucking."

Vic was appalled. "How on earth could you think Hannah..." He stopped, catching the teasing look on her face.

As they walked through to breakfast Nina saw a lean tall guy in checked shirt, very tight jeans, boots and carrying his Stetson walk from Joe's office. "Oh look," she whispered, "A real live cowboy, how exiting." 

"They're call wranglers and I bet he's just been bawled out and put on warning for fighting, judging by the swelling under that right eye."

"Oh, that's my piece of romanticism shot to pieces."

"The fight was probably over a woman."

"Oh really, how exciting. One of the cooks or a room service maid, I guess."

"Or a female wrangler."

"What, this dude ranch has cowgirls?"

"Yes, they prefer the name wrangler. There are three of them, hard as nails and look as if they chew concrete."

"You're kidding me."

Vic looked out the window and saw two wranglers riding by. "Come with me." Nina followed him out the door. Vic stuck two fingers in both sides of his mouth and emitted a piercing whistle. The riders turned round.

"Betsy – over her for a minute will you."

The smaller of the two riders kneed her mount, turned and the horse trotted over.

"Hi Betsy, I'd like you to meet Nina."

"Hi dude," Betsy said, spitting out gum than landed near Nina's feet. "Is he having it off with you?"

"I beg you pardon," Nina flared.

"Suit yourself. If you don't want to converse I'm off to bring in the horses for you dudes. Horses are friendlier."

"Betsy, Nina is taking over as guest services manager and next week I become one of your two bosses."

"That's fine, at least you are cool."

Vic stared Betsy down. "So is Nina cool – she's a city girl and is probably very nervous about your horse being so close to her. And yes I was having my way with her before I arrived at this ranch. She's just buried her father."

"Oh God, I'm sorry Nina," Betsy said, removing her Stetson and holding it against her chest. Would you like to join me and the girls for a drink around 6:00? We have our own bunkhouse with a veranda that overhangs the lake. We'd be honored to have you in your grief."

"Thank you. That is very kind of you and I accept." 

Betsy said nothing to her horse, left the reins slack as she put on her Stetson. The horse turned and trotted off to join the waiting male wrangler.

"How did she do that?"

"Shifted her weight and pushed with one knee."

"You indicated they were tough cookies. She was nice as pie."

Vic didn't grin. "Only three things frighten those women – falling and breaking their back so they can't ride their horses, becoming pregnant and death. You caught her with the last one and scared the crap out of her."

"Don't be disgusting. If she's scared of some things then she's not as tough as she looks."

"Then you admit she looks tough?"

"No, whatever gave you that idea?"

Vic shook his head and sighed. "Well, Bella will scare the crap out of you."

He didn't answer when Nina asked him what was so special about Bella. 

Late that night Vic was called to the females' bunkhouse to take Nina back to her room in a golf cart. She was as drunk as a skunk, almost unconscious.

Scarred-faced Bella lifted Nina up effortlessly and placed her into the cart before Vic could dart around to assist. "You have a lively one there, Vic. She has guts. She stood to allow me to throw my knifes at her, neither moving nor whimpering and scarcely blinking. One knife went a bit astray and almost entered her waterworks. I think that was the time she blinked. Then she drank the other two under the table, but not me of course. She's welcome to bunk down here whenever she wishes."

"Gawd Bella, don't allow anyone else to hear you say that as it could ruin your reputation."

Bella grinned, swaying unsteadily and slapped him on the shoulder. "You're okay Vic. Joe told me this morning he's promoting you to operations manager which places you over me and Jake – I like being with my horses and looking after the land rather than being in the office doing the paperwork and other duties; Jake feels the same way with his cattle. We're glad to have the paperwork dumped on you and know you'll be keen to have any improvement in bottom-line profit attributed to you. We also know another revamp heads our way when Margo returns in a year's time with her husband in tow. It's sweet Vic and this is not the liquor talking. Good luck to you."

Vic ferried Nina back to their room, whistling as he went. He, too, was scared of 190-pound Bella. When in her twenties, almost twenty years ago, she did two years in the pen for killing a guy with her bare hands in a barroom brawl after he ripped her face open with the end of broken whisky bottle. Most of the guest services female workers who shared the bunkhouse were terrified of her although she never touched them. Nina only played around with and occasionally walloped the other tough wrangler, Roxanne.


The months fly by. Nina excelled at her job because she had front-on personality to deal people, was patient with them and their complaints and worked and thought efficiently. She was pro-active whenever confronted by a problem. Vic taught her to ride a cross country bike and Bella became unbelievable sensitive in teaching Nina to connect to horses so they eyed her without fear. Eventually under Bella's training Nina was in the saddle of the more friskier horses not offered to ranch guests and they treated her with reasonable obedience.

There was one harrowing moment when Nina, bolstered with the feeling she was invincible with horses, walked into the enclosure holding out a carrot to the beautiful black stallion, unaware of Broris's tyrannical reputation. Joe the rancher, Bella and Vic came out of the stables and spotted Nina's unwitting encounter with death. Boris had his ears back, pawing the ground with his right foot.

"Oh God," Joe breathed. The tension in that utterance alerting Vic to the fact something was wrong, terribly wrong.

"Don't move," Bella whispered emphatically. "This is between him and her; we're too far away to intervene and anyway we'd need a big bore rifle to stop him.

"Jesus," Vic gasped, seized by the enormity of the moment.

"Stallions sometimes act differently when confronted by women. If she ovulating?"

"How the fuck would I know that," Vic whispered frantically, bringing a wry smile to Bellas's scarred face.

"Let's hope for your sake and hopefully for Nina she's not in that state."

They watched tensely, Vic clutching at Bella and she holding his hand.

The magnificently formed stallion swooped up to Nina who stood her ground, unafraid. Boris covered her lower body with dust as he slid to a halt, a couple of feet from her. He stretched out and took the carrot. Nina attempted to pat the star on his forehead but he snorted and drew his head to the side, away from her.

Nina turned her back on him and walked to the gate. Boris snorted and trotted away to stop under the shade of an overhanging tree, looking back at her.

The three witnesses to a potentially terrible drama that Nina had defused flew to her side. 

"Boris a killer? You guys are are out of your tree. Boris is such a pet," Nina insisted.

The months rolled by. Vic and Nina learned a raft of new business skills and became accomplished at dealing with people, taking orders and giving orders. They also rode horses and cross country bikes, became reaonsably proficient at fly fishing and target shooting, learned river kayaking and white-water rafting and learned to read maps and weather conditions when distant tramping.

Vic and Nina became quite deeply attached and were living as lovers prepared to take the opportunities begging and at other times to back away when the other partner showed signs of needing space.

Nina is the best woman I've ever been with, by a long shot, Vic told himself and an an appropriate moment told Nina that innermost thought. She stoked his hair, leaning against him and not saying anything while Vic could see she was weeping. That made him feel very humble.

But what was their future together? he thought, then decidied to continue taking one day at the time. After all, she'd indicated at the outset she was searching for a man to spend the rest of her life with. He found difficulty seeing himself as that man.

Choose me Nina, he sighed fancifully. The age gap between them was ten years, not insurmountable as many other couples had made the commitment with age gaps far greater than ten years. But sadly for him, Nina knew her own mind and would act accordingly when the time came. He sniffed and changed to think about something ele. 

Finally it came time to go. Nina and Vic had discussed with Joe and Hannah when should they finish up. Joe accepted Vic's suggestion that they should just fade away to allow his daughter Margo and son to come in and to start afresh without having two 'temps' standing in their way.

"Okay, that makes sense," Joe said with a catch in his throat. You two guys sure took a load off me and that means a loan off Hannah. We'll never forget you. As my daughter and her husband arrive on Monday, why don't you two finish up on Saturday? I'll pay your off at 6:00."

Hannah whispered at quite some length to Joe. "You guys come to us at 8:00 and we'll then leave for late dinner. You can leave the next morning when your heads clear."

Vic shook Joe's hand and hugged Hannah. "That sounds lovely. We look forward to your hospitality.:

Instead of leaving the ranch just short of 9:00 for a restaurant, Joe drove Hannah, Nina and Vic to the main bunkhouse. The lights were on but it appeared strangely quiet inside. They entered to find the beds had been pushed back and the tables were laden with food and drink. Behind the tables were the entire autumn staff, not as large as the summer team and the only person who appeared missing was Bella.

The gathering cheered, whooped and whistled as the Joe led in his party.

"Bella's missing," Vic said and equally disappointed Nina said, "Oh, how sad." 

"Bella never comes to turnouts," Hannah confided. "When involved in a crowd she looses her confidence because of her scars."

After dinner when the tables were removed, a three-piece band that had been setting up – the lead, a singer with a fiddle, a keyboard player and drummer – began playing dance music.

"Will our special guests Nina Raymond and Victor Haig please take to the floor," Joe announced.

"Can you dance?" Vic asked nervously.

"Yes."

"Me too," he confessed, sounding relieved.

They danced, looking very good, and after three laps the music stopped.

"This means we pick new partners – you grab Hannah and I'll snare Joe."

And so the night continue serenely until midnight when the double doors at the end of the room burst open and in walked Bella to the bar where she shouted, "Whisky!"

The crowd left the dance floor when the band finished that number; Bella walked up to the band leader, watched by everyone.

"Play 'The Last Waltz', twice Nigel."

"No."

"Nigel, I'm asking nicely only once more."

"No, I'm running this show. We'll play 'The Last Waltz' as our last number."

Bella stuck two hands under the rotund band leader's belt and lifted him well clear of the floor; her mouth turned into a very toothy scowl. "What's it to be, Nigel?"

"A short version of 'The Last Waltz' played twice."

"Good boy Nigel," said Bella, patting his cheek once, a slap heard throughout the bunkhouse that almost sent Nigel reeling.

The bank played The Last Waltz and Bella went up to Nina and held out her hand, which Nina accepted. Bella took the lead and they danced very well.

As the music ended, Bella returned Nina to Hannah's side, kissing her delicately. "Never forsake him, little darling," Bella said loudly, and turning to Vic offered her hand which was accepted and the music resumed.

Big Bella became graceful and light-footed and she and Vic danced as if they'd long danced together. The assembly clapped appreciatively and Nigel called, "Everyone to the floor."

Bella remained on the floor embracing Vic, tears running down her cheek. Finally she said, "Never forsake her, my darling." She choked, released Vic and made her exit the way she'd arrived. Everyone stood stunned until Hannah said loudly, "Well that was a surprise revelation. I wasn't aware I had competition."

Vic walked from the floor looking pole-axed – that is until he saw the look in Nina's eyes; he'd never seen that look before and thought how adorable she was.

Supper was announced and during that break the staff presented Vic with a pair of handsomely tooled leather wrangler boots and Nina with the feminine version.

Vic nodded to Betsy and she came forward carrying a brass weather vane.

"Thanks guys for making our stay here so rewarding and memorable," Vic said. "Nina and I present this small gift to all of you and suggest it's placed on top of the stables, focal point of any ranch dedicated to cattle herding tradition."

Vic and Nina drove off quietly next morning but not before Hannah presented Nina with a bouquet of flowers, at the centre of which hung a beautiful dress ring. Joe hugged Vic tightly and gave a little speech, saying they'd always be welcomed back at the ranch, even as visitors. He gave Vic an envelope saying, Hannah and he agreed Vic's salary as a greenhorn manager had been set a little short.

"Tell me what's in the envelope you're holding," Vic requested, as they hit the main highway and turned north.

"Holy cow – it's a cheque for $24,000. Nothing like the extra revenue you have squeezed out of the operation with your fine-tunings. But it's still a generous gesture - you're very much worth it, darling."

"My attitude is it makes me feel more financially secure – me who was a bum only one year ago." 

After that emotional statement Vic wiped the corner of his eye.

Nina sighed and asked, "What now?"

"We drive. Someone will find they need us." 

* * *

Nina didn't question Vic's comment because she shared that view – there was no hurry as they had no dependants or other commitments and neither were short of money. Indeed, only hours before receiving his termination payment and the unexpected check from Joe, Vic had told her his current bank balance was the biggest he'd possessed in his life – by far. She felt very pleased for him which forced her to acknowledge to herself they had become a couple, almost without realizing it.

But Hannah had realized it, bringing it to Nina's attention over coffee one morning – Hannah liked to socialize and when the female guests were out riding for three or four hours she tended to attach herself to Nina for company over coffee, even a private lunch just for the two of them. Hannah's comment 'You two are now acting more relaxed' had surprised her so she merely agreed with the observation but analysed it later. It was true – there had been this undertone of tension between them. She'd attributed that to her depressing time as her father breathed towards his final demise. It had been terrible for her, being alone apart from acquaintances, mostly hospital staff. She now realized that had partly created the undertow between them: the other reasons, only now being identified, was Vic's resentment arising from his mistaken belief she'd run out on him and perhaps even a residual feat she'd do it to him again.

Nina had sighed her usual refrain, 'Oh God' – an expression inherited from her mom who'd picked it up from her mom. There was little she could do about this as time rather than words would be the healer.

As they drove Nina's thoughts between outbursts of conversation turned up a third factor: Vic's two failed marriages. No matter who was to blame for the break-ups that would have been hurtful and demeaning for him, lowering his confidence in women. Nina decided she must take care and not build up to gradually being everything to him. Best she should pitch her position halfway between a casual girlfriend and a lover; he ought to be able to handle that comfortably. After all, one didn't usually fuck their casual girlfriends. Or did they?




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 03



"What are you thinking?" he asked, really an admission he was not thinking anything of significance beside concentrating on driving.

Nina took the plunge. "Just wondering if men fuck all of their casual girlfriends?"

"Jesus, what rampant thoughts you have; how interesting."

The ensuing conversation during which Vic addmitted their could be some truth in Nina's assumption, gradually raised itself beyond the belt. They ended up discussing the ethics of interpersonal relationships, with Vic leading the way on that, prompting Nina to think he was teaching her far more than how to indulge in sex skilfully and introducing her to business management. At the ranch he'd proven to be great at not only teaching her business administration systems but expanding her knowledge beyond immediate needs so she obtained a wider understanding. Oh, she thought. That's what Hannah meant when kissing me goodbye and saying I now know practically all that's required to run and managed a small business. How could I be so stupid not to have already thought that myself. She grinned – of course, too much diversion such as all that sex, learning to ride and fly fish and all that. God, what a great time I had and how that year just galloped away from us. A year? Oh yes. She pulled out a map.

"There's a large service centre about fifty miles ahead of us."

"Okay, you want to go shopping to buy girlie stuff?"

"If you must know shopping is part of female culture – without access to shops a woman is capable of feeling socially and intellectually deprived."

Vic's mouth gaped. "You're kidding me." When she didn't answer he said sorry, he didn't mean to be offensive. "Want me to accompany you?"

"Sexy underwear is on my mind."

The vehicle served slightly on the empty road. She watched him swallow and he said scrubbing his chin with a palm, "Okay, I'll give that a go."

Nina smiled. She'd like to develop his softer side.

Vic said driving into town they should look out for a good camping site.

"I'd rather spend tonight in a hotel."

"Okay," he said after a slight delay.

"In the most luxurious hotel room that's available."

He glanced at her and grunted another okay. Nina allowed the silence to continue until finally he felt it necessary to ask, "Why do you want to do that?"

"A celebration. We have been together a year plus a couple of weeks – our first anniversary."

"Does that mean there will be more?"

The question caused Nina's throat to go dry; he'd put her on a spot. Her conscience ordered her to tell the truth even if the truth scared him: "I would be very disappoint if that were not so."

Nina watched Vic for reaction but apart from whitened knuckles as his fingers tightened on the steering wheel he behaved normally, saying, "That's good; I think that way too."

Seconds later he came back with a question: "A year, eh. So we're approaching four hundred fucks?"

"More like a thousand I would think."

She saw delight shine his face. "That's three years worth compressed into a year," he said proudly.

"Something like that," Nina replied, wishing he'd think more romantically.

"That's thousands of heart-beats we've shared living so closely together."

"What a beautiful thing to say to me," Nina beamed and leant against his shoulder. She was aware he'd slimmed down and his body had become very firm. That had become noticeable during the haymaking season and then he'd maintained fitness through hard riding coming home with wranglers on their quarter horses. She'd also toned up, becoming addicted to swimming in the outdoor pool and when the colder weather set in the indoor lap pool.

In the lingerie store a sales clerk attached herself to Nina and Vic and began her hustle. Her close presence made Vic feel inhibited. He managed her abrupt withdrawal by picking a pair of crutchless panties off the rack, poking a finger through the gap with his hand inside the garment and saying to Nina, "How about a couple of pairs of these for when I drop in for my quick mid-morning break?" Nina was almost as embarrassed as the sales clerk.

Nina went off and booked the bridal suite at the landmark hotel but didn't inform Vic what it was called. They entered and he was impressed; if he noticed the set-up he kept that to himself. "Can we afford this?"

"Yes, I'm picking up the tab and that includes dinner to be served in here."

"Can we eat nude?"

"If you wish."

"Good, ask for waitresses. I'll have my dick under the table-cloth but I don't want any jerk eyeing your tits – so an all girl crew, please."

"Oh darling, how considerate of you and how romantic, you not wanting other guys looking at my breasts."

"Don't you call them tits any longer?"

"Unless you insist but I will not be able to help saying the word when you have me all worked up. From today I'm working on modifying our behaviour slightly – just easing a little crudeness out of it. We both are a little too foul-mouthed."

"But everything is on in the bedroom or under the stars?"

"Yes, I would think so."

"Okay, take the lead. By the way, if we are eating under the new regime we must dress up for dinner tonight, acting like normal people.":

"Oh, I'm disappointed about the change."

"Liar," he grinned. Pulling something from his inside pocket, Vic tossed over gently a slim package wrapped in gold paper and tied with a darker gold ribbon.

"What is it?"

"While you were fixing up the hotel I was in a store buying you an anniversary present."

"Oh how sweet. Come and kiss me."

"No, you open it first."

Nina knew he was watching expectedly. She suspected it was a thin gold chain to wear as a necklace – all the female wranglers including Bella wore them. She unwrapped the present slowly, keeping her head down and smiling, knowing he'd be willing her to move faster.

"Ohmigod," she cried, looking in disbelief at the 14kt white gold necklace. She quickly counted – eight rows of weaved links; this must have set him back a chunk of money – she guessed around four and a half thousand.

"You like it?"

"I adore it."

"Put it on."

Nina said gently, "Not until I'm dressed for tonight then I'll want you to put it on me. Come – I'm buying a gown for me and a tuxedo for you."

"A tux – but that's extravagant – I'll never wear it again."

"Don't bet on that buddy," Nina smiled.

The necklace looked gorgeous above her little black dress she'd chosen over a long gown after Vic had unexpectedly declared in the store he'd prefer her wearing a short cut dress because it showed off her elegant legs; the charming middle-aged sales clerk said she agreed. Nina half-wished they were eating in the dinning room where women could see her new treasure – it was by far the most expensive gift anyone had given her. But not only that – she loved it, it was so 'her'.

Nina went to bed deliriously happy after Vic had undressed and then undressed her. She led him to the bed by his erection, know that was the secret fantasy of many men – well, some female friend had told her that.

After a slow and satisfying sixty-nine she whispered, "I'm giving you my ass tonight. His reply almost sent her into orgasm. 

"I have a better idea: you present you ass to me each year on my birthday. My birthday is six weeks away, remember?"

Not just one birthday, he'd spoken of multiple birthdays: he envisaged living with her long-term. "Eat my cunt out again," she screamed, beating him with her fists. Laughing, he dutifully obliged and soon triggered one of her bigger releases.

"All finished?" he asked, rising up with a dripping chin. 

"No, I want more. We've just done it as if I were a whore; now make love, proper love to me darling and I shall reciprocate beautifully.

* * *

Initially Vic had become a little edgy with Nina's talk about behavioural modification to lift their relationship on to a higher plane. He relaxed when she made it clear by 'higher plane' she meant a slightly higher plane. He had no wish to be what he wasn't – er – to be pushed out of character. Well, he'd wait to see how it when before deciding whether he needed to put his foot down.

He thought back to Nina asking did all men fuck their casual girlfriends, He'd regarded that as a loaded question. Would the next question be did he fuck his mother's friends, or at least any who appealed to him, or perhaps she'd be thinking what he'd do to the women Nina befriended. Vic sighed. Obviously she had the idea he roamed around thinking his dick was like a rapier, ready to plunge into any babe he thought needed a working over. God, was this because she thought he treated her like a slut – someone to have at his side ready to plunge into simply at his convenience? It wasn't like that at all, he frowned. She was just so fuckable that he couldn't help himself. Also she needed the frequency of practice to become highly accomplished at it. Despite what women may think, fucking isn't something you learn from your mother or an occasional romp at the beach or on the back seat of a car; expert fucking, that is.

At the fashion store, Vic spotted the price tag on the gown she was gloating over; fuck, almost two thousand bucks for that. So he mentioned the quality of her legs and she fell for it like a lamb, choosing what she and the sales clerk called a LBD. The ticket on that was almost nine hundred but he reserved his opinion until seeing it on her. 

While he'd waited the clerk kept eyeing him, making him nervous. She had the gall to adjust one of her stockings right in front of him, pretending he wasn't there. He didn't see much as he began studying the ceiling. Although being middle aged, she had a great body. When he next looked at her she was smoothing her dress over her tits. He meant to say nice dress, but typical of his proneness to say exactly what he was thinking in such tight situations as this, he commented, 'Love the tits'. Rather than demonstrate outrage she smiled and thanked him for what she called his most acceptable remark. At that point Nina emerged looking a million dollars, Vic aware he'd be heading for a great fuck when he pulled that dress off her later that night and the clerk no doubt thinking she'd made the sale.

In menswear, Vic felt his pulse-rate jump when he heard Nina say to the dude in a fancy business suit, "You highest quality tux in the store please." No way would he be allowing that prissy guy take his inner leg measurement.

Vic had opened his mouth to say "No Nina no; I'll take the cheapest tux when she smiled – he'd have to say adoringly – and whispered, "This is my anniversary gift to you plus the hotel stay."

That stymied him. To refuse would offend her possibly, and this was not an occasion to risk doing that. She'd indicated she had plenty of money. Unbeknown to her he'd splashed out on nearly five grand on that necklace that lay in the pocket against his chest. Why? He didn't know why, dammit, execpt that she was worth it and had virtually told him outright that she had no plan to move on. Not since he was a kid had he felt so much wanted; it almost felt as his heart was about to burst.

Now he lay in the grand hotel suite watching her sleeping. Their fucking just ended had been top shelf – ranging from unrestrained rutting to the sweetest fuck he'd ever had. For that she'd taken the lead, telling him to go slowly and gently. He was just about stuffed anyway, so taking it easy had been no problem. Her hands and tongue were all over him and she directed him how to touch places that gave her the most enjoyment. They cruised along fine until she began yawning and said she was about to come. Vic worried, thinking he might not have re-loaded. He began thinking about their new arrangement – her ass on his birthday. Ah, that was better, a build up was happening. They were in lazy Missionary, his least preferred position. She wriggled her legs and he lifted on to his toes to allow her room to move, suspecting she could be developing cramp. She settled so he dropped down, to find her thighs were now inside his and the friction had increased.

At that stage drips of sweat off Vic's forehead were dropping into her hair; she was sweating as well and began breathing faster. She tensed and suddenly pressured Vic's flagging cock, clamping and releasing her internal muscles, milking him. Within a minute she grunted and began convulsing and with easer he released his contribution to the cocktail in the making.

"Great timing," she'd yawned. "I remembered that move as one of the tips on the DVD I hired."

"Great, wheezed Vic, feeling really tuckered out. "Show me which one and I'll buy it for you."



Two days later they arrived at the coast and liked the small town where they had a great fish lunch. They found a camping ground and after setting up strolled through main street. Vic pulled Nina back and they entered a computer shop that also sold DVDs. "Come, let's see if you can find that DVD you want."

"You mean the DVD you want for me," she giggled.

The store didn't stock XXX-rated DVDs.

"Damn," said the man behind the counter.

"I hope that's not your farewell to us who haven't purchased anything," Vic laughed.

"No, sorry about that. This blasted computer is on the blink again."

"You're at the right place – the sign says computer repairs," Nina laughed and the guy looked at her bleakly, saying that his computer technician had walked out. "He took my wife with him."

"Let Vic take a look – he knows computers, Nina offered.

"Help yourself. It contains all my stock and sales records but it was backed up last night."

"Was the backup verified and then a couple of randomly selected files restored as a test?"

"No," the guy confessed to Vic.

"Then don't assume you have a safe backup."

"Oh yeah, quite right. I've become somewhat lazy because the back-up has never failed me yet. That's how amateur's think, isn't it?"

"You said it," Vic grinned. "I'll take a look."

He worked away while the guy leaned over the counter talking to Nina.

Finally Vic interpreted their tête-à-tête. "Everything checks out okay but your hard drive is running slower than it should. How old is it?"

"As old as the computer, five years."

"Then I suspect the drive is dying."

"But it's not clunking – the usual warning."

"Wait for that to happen and you may regret that you did. Toss me a new hard-drive."

"New or reconditioned?"

"New – for Godsake, this computer is the heart of your business."

"Pick the drive you want out of this cabinet," said the store owner-operator who introduced himself as David Bell. "I'll fetch the toolkit. Nina, would you like to make us coffee – Cilla my office clerk out at lunch."

Vic fitted the new drive and then went to the software shelves and returned with 'Acronis Migrate Easy' and used it to transfer the entire contents of the original hard drive to the new hard drive.

"It will take up to an hour to transfer all data, David. Then this is what I recommend: Continue with your nightly tape back-up with you or your assistant taking that tape homem away from these premises for extra security. In addition I recommend you subscribe to an off-site automatic back-up service for a monthly fee of around thirty to a hundred bucks a month depending on capacity of storage. For you it should cost you no more than a couple of bucks a day 24/7. Your data will be automatically encrypted to keep it safe from prying eyes and your hosting provider will have all levels of security in place. You can download your data from your host at any time of the day or night, any day or night of the year."

David grinned. "Well that resolves my current worries, what have you to add, Nina?

"Well, it's best I say nothing."

"Spill it, Nina," David urged, saying clearly she'd been looking around thoughtfully.

Nina looked at Vic, who nodded. "If you don't mind my saying so, David, these premises are a complete mess. Look, it's lunchtime but where are your customers? I believe customers at this time of day should be predominately women as they are on the street out there in greater numbers than men. I think women are discouraged from entering your store; the colours are all wrong for them and the interior is so messy with sub-departments not clearly defined."

"Well, that's a hammering but I did ask for it," David said ruefully. "What do you suggest?"

"Take a modern approach, but without spending a fortune. Move the sales counter to the rear so people see product as they walk in; install electronic sentinals at the door to deter shoplifters. Everyone is used to them now and know their purpose. I believe I could quickly sketch you a plan for an improved layout because in principle it's little different from a dress or shoe store. I could also suggest colours for improved décor."

"Suggest? David said. "Why don't I just engage you as an employee and give you free rein to get your concepts working for me?"

"What about this assistant you have?"

"Cilla principally works on accounts. My wife attended to sales with me walking the floor assisting customers and attending to stock including deliveries and putting out the trash for collection. My assistant is more than an assistant to me since my wife cleared out."

"Okay, I'll do it – say for two to three months but you being left free to terminate me if I fail to generate turnover to justify my additional expense to the business."

"Sounds good to me. You may as well join the staff as well, Vic. We'll return to generating big cash flow through doing computer and electronic equipment repairs."

Vic scrubbed his chin, thinking. "Our first impressions of this town are favourable but I don't do repairs; I do computer upgrades and replace components which means you'd have to our-source repairs like detecting dry joints and the like. The reality is computers have become so cheap, relatively speaking and are now designed for components to be replaced rather than repaired. That means computer repair technicians are becoming a dying breed. Advertise and you'll find one or two working from their homes."

"I agree to that," David said. "Does that mean you're hired yourself?"

"Providing the salary is at a decent level I'll work for you for as long as Nina works here."

"Right, agreed," David said, rubbing his hands. "Can you both start Friday?"

"Yes, but why Friday?"

"That gives me time to advertising we're closing this Friday and Saturday morning, re-opening on Monday as a fully serviced 'new look' business. This should help win back some of my former customers who drifted over to the opposition offering better service. We can work this Friday, Saturday and Sunday renovating the store. I can get a team of painters to work from store closing on Thursday doing the patch-up and repaint of the premises. Bert Wheeler I know from Rotary will design, construct and install a new sales counter at the rear of the premises, working over the weekend. I'll press my father who's an electrician to upgrade our lighting and his mate will do a fancy new illuminated sign over our frontage. I'll argue later with the council about not applying for permission but Alec will conform to requirements. You two have really fired me up. Vic you can reorganize the repair room out the back to your satisfaction."

"Wow, you're a man of action, David," Nina said, patting him on the shoulder. "Of course we'll work through the weekend with you."

"You'll be paid penal rates for that time, of course."

"No David, just allow us to demonstrate our goodwill. Pay us from Monday, right Vic?"

"That's a good gesture Nina. David and his piece of skirt can host us out to dinner on Sunday.

"Piece of skirt?" sounded an indignant voice behind Vic and Nina. David stood, head bent, his hand over his forward covering his eyes.

Vic turned to look at the woman he'd just insulted.




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 03



To be continued.



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 04



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who mistaking her for a hooker or an easy opportunity. The previous night Nina was thrown out of home by her mentally unbalanced and recently widowed father. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her father. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina's SUV with no destination in mind. The morning after they begin their adventure into the unknown, Nina returns to check on her father, to find he's dying and she and Vic temporarily lose contact. They are reunited and spend a year on a cattle and horse ranch which takes paying guests as ranch dudes. They move on to a small coastal town where they befriend a computer and video store owner who offers them jobs. The owner's wife has walked out on him and he's taken up with his accounts clerk. Vic makes a casual but insulting remark about that woman just as she walks in behind him.

* * * 

Vic became aware at store owner David Bell's embarrassment that the woman indicating outrage behind him was the same women he'd just described as David's 'Piece of skirt'.

"I beg your pardon – once a brat with a tendency to insult ladies grows into a man unable to throw such a despicable tendency. I've said something nasty without reason and once again apologize."

"It hurts being called something cruel like that, especially in David's presence. Who are you?"

Vic looked into the dark eyes of an attractive woman quite similar to Nina in age and stature. "I'm Victor Haig, newly recruited as David's computer technician. But if you feel you cannot work with me hurtful comment I'm out of here, never to return."

The woman swallowed. "No, no – you cannot do that. The store is in greater need of a computer technician than me. Shake my hand Mr Haig and that indiscretion is behind us."

"Thank you miss," Vic said, still in a bit of a sweat.

"Call me Cilla – I'm Cilla Maple. Are you attached to this pretty young woman?"

"Yes, he is. I'm his piece of skirt, Nina Raymond. I am very pleased to meet you Cilla.

The two men held their breath until Cilla smiled. "We have that in common."

"Yes and we have a closer link than that; I've been engaged to work here in sales."

"You look too upmarket to work in this old-fashion outfit," Cilla said. "I hope David has warned you we have lost quite a slab of our regular customers."

"Yes, I indicated that without being too specific," David said. "I didn't want to frighten them off. They are leaving now and start on Friday to help pull this place apart. We're going upmarket – I'll fill you after they leave," David said, taking Cilla's arm. "My impression is we'll make a great team."

"I'll look forward working with someone my own age," Cilla said. "But you sir, the jury is out on you for the moment."

"Normally he's very well house-trained, I assure you," Nina said. They all laughed and said their goodbyes.

Nina began to scold Vic as they walked along the one long shopping street. "I really don't know how you could be so careless with your tongue."

"I'm sorry. Please accept my apology for embarrassing you. I'm feeling better because I saw in her eyes Cilla has decided she likes me."

Nina sniffed. "I saw that also and think she more than likes you. I would prefer that you didn't dirty the nest."

"What does that mean?"

"Seducing her could harm our relationship with David."

"Of course, but what about our relationship; we haven't discussed either of us succumbing to outside temptation?"

"I really haven't thought about it but I know I wouldn't like finding out you'd been with another woman."

"But it's okay if you don't find out?" Vic asked, cocking his head and looking almost comical at that angle.

"I suppose so but it disappoints me that you should think like that."

"Well, I really was asking for educational purposes. Our relationship is becoming much closer and I anticipate there will come a time when I wouldn't dream of being with another woman."

Nina showed every sign of being testy, fluffing up the back of her hair and pulling at the shoulders of her top. "And when do you anticipate reaching that point?"

"If you don't mind, could I leave that question unanswered? I haven't really thought about it."

"No, that's fine. You haven't asked about my likelihood of breaching fidelity."

"I didn't think it was my place to ask you that; there's been no sign of anyone coming on to you, other than me."

"Hasn't there?"

"Who? I want to know?"

"If you don't mind could I leave that question unanswered," Nina said coldly.

"Touché," he muttered and missed her wry smile. He suspected for the first time since they had been having sex, apart when Nina was having a period and also when they became separated, he'd miss out on sex that night. 

They walked along the street, an unusually wide gap between them. 

"We should inspect the premises of David's competitors."

"Good idea – he told me there are only two outfits scaled up enough to be direct competitors."

They found nothing about the two competitors that dismayed them, Vic describing them as also lazy operations.

"Meaning?" Nina asked, still showing no signs of a thaw.

"David could make his business fly after the upgrade by paying greater attention to marketing strategies."

"I share that thought. So what do we recommend?"

"What are the two key components to his business?"

"That's easy: product and service, especially service in his type of business with its big potential for an ongoing relationship with customers."

"Indeed – a lifetime relationship with some people and even generational in some instances."

"How do you know all this?"

"We received a fully rounded education when I trained as a computer technician – it included business modeling around the computer technicians attached to a home appliance store or department in a department store. The assumption of the course designers was that some of us would elevate ourselves from being technicians to entering management and even owning the store or even a network of stores - owning or franchising them."

"So from the broad base you are able to tutor me?"

"Yes, as will David. At the ranch you learned about the front end of client relations and narrowly the workings of support administration. Now you are advancing into retailing where the client is not a captive as on the ranch – David's clients are capable of walking out if they don't find instant satisfaction. Clearly David's product and client support systems will be far more complex at the ranch. My expectation is that our arrival will re-awaken David's interest in his business and we are likely to see him performing at his best."

"Then we should encourage him to seek a divorce otherwise the risk remains that his wife will return and throw him off centre again."

Frowning, Vic said, "We can't interfere with his personal life."

"I suppose not," Nina said glumly. "That's all the more reason for you to back away if Cilla decides to target that cock of yours."

"Nina!"

"What?"

"It was your idea that we become less foul-mouthed."

"Well, that just proves to me that I'm depressed."

* * *

Not unexpectedly, Vic was made to pay for his reckless utterances suggesting if temptation came his way he could stray. Nina pushed him away that night and the next two, depressing Vic but making him realize there was more to a relationship than sex, although he was not completely convinced. The two days between those three nights were unremarkable although he and Nina remained civil; he'd describe those two days as grey days.

Dawn ending that third night brought welcome change – for both of them. Vic awoke finding it difficult to breathe but before he could panic realized a pussy was being pressed into his mouth. He dutifully began licking now aware Nina was sitting over his face; it was very unlikely to be Cilla.

The tension and resentment flowed out of him as pussy juice mixed with his saliva in his mouth. A cocktail great cocktail was in the making because Nina had the sweetest pussy he'd ever reamed.

Vic began working like a pro and was rewarded with Nina patting the top of his head, sighing and saying, "That's my boy." Her encouraged 'boy' lifted his work-rate and before long had her mewing in release as she creamed his face like never before.

"God that was climatic," he crowed.

"Help me off, I need to rest," she panted.

Vic placed her on her front, lifted her up at the waist and put two pillows under her belly. Then with a big grin, shuffling up on his knees to take up perhaps his favorite position with a woman, going slowly with long strokes. Due to her wetness this was accompanied by loud squishing sounds that really broadened his grin.

Plowing away Vic thought back on what he considered were the best fucks he could remember, rating them. Both ex-wives were in his Top Ten which was not surprising because that's what they were good at and his reason for associating with them. He blushed when placing one of his mother's friends at number nine and he was pleased to be able to slot Nina in at number eight – that rating came with her supreme performance on the night marking their first anniversary, ending in that great finale when he was uncertain whether he could perform again but she then put the squeeze on him. How could she be so lovable like that and then so soon afterward be such a cow, keeping her legs crossed?

It's you, you creep, he admonished, being surprised he could blame himself.

"You're a man, working towards turning thirty-nine for goodness sake, seventeen years Nina's senior. Seventeen years? He redid the math and was appalled; remembering he'd thought it was a 10-year gap sometime back. Seventeen! He was old enough to be her father. For a moment Vic was depressed, not helped when finding Nina had fallen asleep. He wondered about discontinuing but his balls felt so tight after three nights of abstinence that he decided to keep on the job; perhaps she would wake later if he worked her clit?

Nina my young flower, he thought. I'm too old for you but before you leave me my great hope is I will pull you into number one position in my best fuck rating list. Such competence will give the man you choose to marry a really great thrill the first time he humps you. What I'd give to be there, observing my protégé almost screwing out his eyeballs as she brings him expertly into ejaculation!

Vic glanced at the bedside clock – golly, better get going as they needed to shower and shave – yes, Nina now sported a totally bald pussy after being influenced by those lady wranglers. How the fuck they found out Nina was hairy raised interesting questions. But he left that thought hanging – he and she needed to be on the job with David at 8:00 as arranged.

He reached for Nina's clit. She stirred and murmured, "That's nice darling. Oh, you're fucking me as well? I better get into it," she said, beginning to rock. "Oh, I feel that stiff thick cock pounding me. I love the feeling of your balls slapping against me. Ooooooooh, here I come." At that point Vic knew he'd be arriving like a late train but the gap between their orgasms narrowed when Nina squeezed those slapping balls rather hard.

"Blaaaah," he blurted as he pumped in every available drop, feeling glad, feeling like a real man and knowing he loved Nina.

Love Nina? Oh you idiot, he thought, laying on her while recovering enough energy to withdraw and walk his very spent dick into the shower. Don't ruin the sweet young thing's life by loving her; she must never know.

"You've been very nice to me this morning, darling," Nina said, pushing up against his weight as if preparing to try to toss him aside. "Could I reward you by doing cowgirl?"

"Shower, I must have a shower," Vic said rolling off her. I remind you we begin work today so must have a decent breakfast."

"Well darling, I calculate we can fit another round in comfortably," Nina said but stopping as she watched his bare-ass making a hurried exit to the shower.

David watched the couple approach, Nina's tits capturing his attention first. Such a pretty thing, he thought. Those dark green eyes go so well with her olive complexion. Her dark curly hair must be wonderful to stroke. Vic, you are a very luck bloke. I bet you've been between those great looking legs this morning and every morning. You're not someone I'd want to tangle with – lean, six-two and well muscled. A big dick I'd guess, otherwise why would a 21-year-old be on the road with someone old enough to be her father?

"Hi guys, right on time I see," David called after unlocking the door and opening it for them. "I'm excited after inspecting the painting done according to your specs, Nina."

"It looks great," Nina said. "What time did they finish?"

"Eleven fifteen – there were four of them and the leading hand had it all worked out and they tore into it apart from two coffee breaks."

"Right," said Nina. "David, you open all the doors and windows – this place needs to be ventilated. I'll fix a sign 'Closed for Renovations' and hang it on a rope tied across the doorway. Vic, you begin sorting out your room."

"Good morning everyone," Cilla called, entering the premises. "I volunteer to help you Vic after you assist me shift my files and computer into that alcove behind the sales desk."

"Excellent," said Nina, assuming the role of project manager uninvited. "I'll draw up a floor plan for the logical positions of departments and discuss it with you, David, as your input is essential. We know you are the boss but it may be necessary for me to give you a lead with logical thinking; we're underway."

As David opened the high windows he thought Nina not only had great breasts but she had a great manner, such great confidence for someone so young He suspected she had great potential in management as displayed by the pleasant way she barked out orders so that they all were working to take the changes forward. He'd noted Cilla had nobbled Vic to help her with the heavy lifting. She looked great in that low cut sun dress with its built in bra. Nothing like a bit of tit wobble to stir a guy. Damn, she could stir Vic. Ah, Nina was here; be watchful Vic if Cilla decides to tempt you!

By mid morning coffee break, Vic was certain Cilla was making a play for him. She'd bent in front of him and catching him staring at her rather exposed tits had simple giggled, not saying a word or making any attempt to cover up a little. They'd also bumped together more times than seemed necessary – the two areas there were working in weren't all that confined. But he was comfortable – she was bright and chatty and Nina wouldn't have to look too hard at them to see he wasn't doing anything wrong.

During the coffee break Vic was relieved Cilla made no attempt to sit next to him. She obtained David's approval that she should store her archives of paper files above the cupboards in David's office.

"Vic, you'll find the stepladder out in the storeroom," David said, indicating Vic was to continue assisting Cilla.

Vic wondered what Nina would be thinking of this but she had her head down sketching.

Walking back to where they had been working Cilla seemed to turn childish. "Do you like working with me Vic?"

"Yeah, it's okay."

"Only okay?"

"Well yes, it's only work. But you're lively and pull your weight."

"Pull my weight. Do you think I'm overweight?"

"No, you look great."

At that point Vic realized her comments were now adult, rather than childish.

"What's great about my body, Vic?"

Time to put and end to this. "I'll fetch the stepladder."

"I'll come with you."

"No Cilla, you get the files ready."

Vic placed the ladder and began climbing it when Cilla said, "No Vic, I need to place the files in order in the right places. Please hold the ladder steady for me."

Vic's heart began racing. He'd seen this set-up in films: the babe climbs the ladder, shows her panties and stocking thighs to the guy holding the ladder, he shows an interest and she scampers down the ladder and they embrace. Either that happens or as she comes down her skirt drapes over his head and the scene fades out.

Cilla climbed the ladder, making no attempt to waggle her ass at Vic as she climbed beyond him and he grabbed the far side of the ladder to steady it. As Vic looked up his nose twitched; was that pussy he smelled?

She was calling so he looked up all the way this time and spotted self-supporting stocking tops and yes, that was pussy he'd whiffed: she was bare-ass and a tuff of auburn hair showed through the backs of her legs - the hair looked moist.

Vic's dick stirred, taking an interest in being prompted by signals from his brain.

Cilla has turned to look at him. "How's the view down there – hope it won't provoke you to pop?"

Pop? Did she mean lose his cool or to lose a load? He wasn't up to asking.

"I'd say a little cheeky."

"Like to see more?"

"No."

"Spoiler," she sighed. "Okay, pass me January and February."

The files were marked January to December and she placed them, logically, in that order from left to right. How deceitful, there was no need for her to climb the ladder at all. He could have placed those files with his eyes shut, but they hadn't been shut, had they? They stayed very open and fixed on her ass and almost totally hidden pussy as she now began climbing down extremely slowly. He pulled his left hand away to allow her to pas him. Now she had a boob out, the nipple looking red and swollen.

"Put it away and stop behaving like this with me, Cilla. I'm sorry but I have no intention of becoming between you and David and you must accept that the affection between Nina and me bonds us deeply. This is a no, and I really mean no, Cilla," Vic said sternly.

"Yes Cilla, put it away; you might catch it on the ladder."

Cilla and Vic turned to stare at Nina leaning casually against the door frame.

"That's another job well done; thanks team," Nina said and disappeared from view.

"Oh God, I'm sorry Vic. I was only after a bit of fingering."

Vic grinned, pulled up Cilla's skirt and slapped the bare butt. "It's great, I've passed the test and she'll be delighted with me. It will be full on tonight."

"Well Vic, if you ever want it full on with me, just say the word."

"Sorry Cilla, it can never be. As you saw, I'm on a very short leash and I am happy with that."

The work was completed ahead of schedule at 10:45 on Sunday morning, the premises looking very impressive. David went out and returned through the door to gain the impression that newly arriving customers would gain. He looked pleased. 

Cilla and hugged him. "Will you apply for divorce now; this is our new life underway?"

"Yes darling," he said, kissing her briefly. "Well guys, let's have lunch instead of dinner, eh?"

Vic said, "Suits me – Nina?" She nodded.

Cilla chose a seafood restaurant and she and Nina hit the wine enthusiastically. As they were walking out, the two females ready for sleep, David took a call. 

Ending the conversation David turned to Vic, an apology etched all over his face. "A half hour, as a favor...please?"

"What is it?"

"My younger sister Sharon. She's done something to the computer and now it won't boot and she's in a state. My 12-year-old niece is to present a school project in the morning and Sharon says it needs to be downloaded. I'll take you to Sharon and calm her. She's in a bit of a state."

"No, give me the address and call her, saying I'll be with her inside thirty minutes. I need to put Nina to bed first."

"Yeah, I must do the same with Cilla. Those two like celebrating. Look, Sharon's a bit toffee nosed, married to this big shot who owns a chemical plant – our town's largest employer. She acts as if she's the town's First Lady. Just don't take any crap from her. She'll pay you whatever you ask – charge triple rates as it's Sunday and pocket the whole lot. I really appreciate this, Vic."




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 04



Sharon's house put Vic off for a start – much too flashy for his taste and why with onlyh one kid did they need a four-car garage? Show-offs!He grinned, thinking if Mrs Toffy Nose was still hysterical he'd get her to suck him off to keep her quiet.

The distressed woman opened the door before he knocked. She carried an empty martini glass and looked as if she'd been crying.

"The computer has been playing up. Cal told me not to touch it until he could look at it tonight. He left for golf an hour ago taking Shelley with him as she loves driving the cart. Could you please get the problem sorted before they return otherwise those two will make savage me?"

At least Vic felt safe. Although Sharon was only around his age, her tits were already drooping – she needed a better bra than that and she was over-weight and he didn't like her fake blonde hair up like that. He of course was only a computer technician so she wouldn't be interested in him.

"Take me to the computer and then disappear."

"Oh, grumpy are we? I guess I would be too being called out on a Sunday. Were you screwing or something?"

Vic wondered if he'd heard her correctly.

"I was just finishing lunch with your brother."

"What, and with that sexy little thing he's taken up with?"

"If you mean Cilla yes, she was there."

"I'd bet you'd like to screw her?"

The bitch, she's frustrated. The husband must have a new girlfriend, thought Vic and without thinking looked at her tits again.

She pulled an arm across her chest defensively, glaring at him.

"What's wrong, not proud of your tits?" he jeered, really having no intention of saying that but it popped out because he was becoming interested. Frustrated women were usually great provided they only opened their mouth to suck and avoided crying.

"What do you think?" she asked, jerking open the front of her dress and pulling her bra above her tits with some effort. 

What Vic saw was the best pair of heavy hangers he'd ever encountered. Now he really was interested. "Fetch us a couple of martinis and then get your ass back here quickly."

"Yes sir," she said almost cheerfully, attempting to give him a great wink above the smeared mascara.

The problem was simple – the hard drive was over-loaded up with trash. He cleared away deleted files and remnants of downloads giving more than enough space for the computer to boot. He then activated defrag and waited for madam to arrive, sitting to make sure she'd noticed his bulge.

She noticed all right, spilling some of their drinks, eyes fixed on his lap. "Good heavens, is that all you?"

A ridiculous comment, Vic thought, but he loved it.

"Take a look, but hurry in case small dick hubby returns home early."

"He won't – he's only playing nine holes but he'll leave Shelley on the practice putting green with half a dozen balls and go up to find some cronies to drink with. We have two hours minimum."

"Then unzip me and take a look."

"Couldn't you drop your trousers; it would make it easier for me."

"Why?" Vic asked innocently.

"Don't be a naughty boy, give me your cock."

"Okay, providing you strip off."

"Why," Sharon asked innocently. 

"Because I want to work those tits while you suck me. By the time I've finished that your cunt will be screaming out for my cock so if you want to be really filled, so don't get me off by sucking."

"No sir, certainly not sir. I greatly desire to be properly fucked, sir. You have my permission to bang me until your jizz pours out of my ears."

"I'm good but not that good," Vic said with a leer. "I'll do my best."

Eyeing the tits coming his way he asked, "Do you mind if I nip?"

"No, my husband never looks at them these days. When he does fuck them occasionally during the night he usually calls me Lorna or June, the names of two women in administration at the factory. I suspect he's fucking them both simultaneously which is why he'd so tired these days. I'm waiting for his heart attack when he fucks himself to death."

Shocked by that outburst, at least the ending of it, Vic struggled to retain his erection.

Two hours later, late afternoon, Vic slipped into bed beside Nina, who didn't stir. As with most sexual cheats he was filled with remorse. Coping with Sharon had taken his strength, so cupping Nina's left breast he smiled off to sleep like a happy baby.

Sharon had paid him what he requested, three hundred bucks. She said he'd made her so happy she'd gladly hand him the remainder of the one thousand she had in her handbag but Vic had wisely declined that generosity, suspecting if he did accept the extra $700 Sharon would soon be on the phone demanding repeat visits. 

Returning home he'd left the three hundred on the kitchen table with a note for Nina saying to treat herself; he'd collected the cash doing an emergency computer fix for David's brother; he'd written that with a clear conscience as in effect it was true.

* * * 

A little over three months later Vic and Nina finally decided to move on. The little business was booming and they believed it had reached near its potential.

Cilla had caught David cheating on her and in the ensuing row he admitted he'd not instructed his lawyer to initiate divorce proceedings. So Cilla resigned and departed town as soon as David paid her off. He then wrote to his wife, inviting her back and saying all was forgiven. That was the final straw for Nina.

"The guy's immoral and lacks backbone; I've really gone off him." 

They were eating dinner. "I haven't noticed much change in him." Vic said. "If anything he's even more cooperative now than in the beginning when he was prone to stalling on further improvement expenditure after we completed renovations."

"He and his wife won't respect each other when she returns."

"How do you know that?"

"I've heard it happens."

"Oh, hearsay. Perhaps you are right; let's put our resignations in the day he says she's coming back."

Two weeks later David came to them very excited, waving a letter from his wife. Nina congratulated him, took two sheets of paper from her handbag, dated the resignations, and handed them to David, wiping the joy from his face.

"Couldn't you leave a couple of weeks after she returns to work, rather than the day she returns," David pleaded.

Vic went to say okay but Nina said no, and that was it.

"Don't worry," Nina said," as they drove out of town a week later. "Something will turn up, it always does. But if you worry our luck will take longer to turn up."

"Who told you that crap?"

"I made it up," she giggled.

Another mile along the highway Nina was looking pensive.

"What's wrong?"

"I was never happy working for David, not like working at the ranch"

"That's funny, I felt the same. Unfortunately the last time we talked Hannah said their son wanted to close the guest side of the business at the end of autumn and then gradually convert from Herefords to purebred Angus. You haven't heard how the voting went have you?"

"No, that was the last time we were in contact. She owes me two letters. I thing we are drifting away from them which is a pity. She told me confidentially she reckons the voting to the proposals will be three to one in favor."

"Uh-huh, Joe odd-man odd, being a Hereford man."

"Seems like it. We'll need gas soon," Nina observed.

It was hot so after filling up they sat down for early lunch in the attached eatery, sipping ice-cold beers.

Nina looked at Vic over the top of her cold bottle, resting on her top lip. "I'd like to settle down."

"Sounds okay to me."

She recovered from the quick, positive reply: "What's your choice?"

Vic palmed his chin and he habitually did when feeling he was being pushed to answer. "To work alongside you."

"At what?"

He squirmed and that told Nina she had him on a spot. Sighing, Vic told Nina she wouldn't want to hear his deep thought.

"Oh yeah? Try me."

"Locate on a working ranch with guest facilities."

"Fuck me," Nina said, beaming.

"Ma'am, we have young children just behind you," snapped the elderly waitress carrying food to that table. Nina ignored her.

"In what capacity?"

"The optimum would be equal part owner with you, the bank as our joint partner."

Nina said how exciting – for weeks she'd been attempting to create a picture of the future but nothing as substantial as that had come to her. "My only big thought was property development – but we'd be babes in the woods in that field. When can we go looking at ranches?"

"After lunch, Vic joked, still off-balance by her enthusiastic response.

"Okay."

"Okay what?" he asked, half-ready to be teased.

"We go looking for a place that fulfils our dreams."

He grinned. "May I come around and kiss you."

"You may come around and fuck me," she said, but not too loudly. Vic looked around anxiously but to his relief the tut-tut waitress, the possible owner of the outfit, was nowhere in sight. He kissed Nina and went to the counter and ordered, partly in a daze because he had to return and ask Nina what she wanted to eat. He returned to the table with a 'Please Don't Remove from the Restaurant' map of a wide area of territory. They huddled together looking at it excitedly.

Before long they'd agreed to leave the extreme west, changing direction for the first time since hitting the road together. Inland they went, excitement bubbling as they headed into real cattle country with the intention of buying a ranch.

Nina asked: "How big a spread?"

"We need a ranch operation that is economic now and is likely to keep its head above water for the next ten years or more. We'd need to proceed very carefully."

Nina said that meant paying for advice.

"If we want to do that, yes. My thinking is to buy a rundown place with potential to take us into a future, a breeding unit. We also should be within 200 miles of a really big city, one that attracts tourists so dudes are within easy drive of us."

"Of course, guest ranchers want everything easy."

"Yes. You realize of course that the ranch we buy won't have guest facilities – buying such a set-up inside a full working ranch would cost millions more than a straight, rundown ranch."

"Slightly rundown ranch."

"Okay, we don't want to spend half a lifetime working to get it right."

"Now you're cooking," Nina said, looking at their own book of maps and looked for a city that was a tourist destination near where they were and then towns about 200 miles from it.

"There – that's where will go, okay?"

"Yep, you have first call. With our luck the first property we hit could be the one we buy."

Thirteen property inspections later involving hours of travel as well, Nina and Vic were still optimistic as they continued their prospecting but now almost 300 miles from a big city. 

As arranged, they met the real estate agent at the entrance to the fourteenth property which was located a handy 12 miles from the servicing town. The agent who specialized in selling ranches was a stooped, grumpy looking guy wearing a hundred-year-old looking Stetson and similar age boots.

"Oh dear, not good," Nina said.

"Perhaps he'll think kindly of us looking like greenhorns and provide outstanding service," Vic said hopefully, calling out, "Mr Brody?"

"Who wants to know?"

"Nina Raymond and Vic Haig."

"Which one of you is which?"

Vic growled under his breath: "He's pulling our tit." That made Nina giggle.

"I'm Vic."

The agent stopped leaning over the hood of his SUV. "Come with me Mr Haig, leave her here."

"No Mr Brody, Nina and I are partners and she comes; also she makes the money decisions."

"Suit yourself. Get aboard." 

Nina disliked Mr Brody and Mr Brody remained obstinate and unfriendly so Vic confined his conversation to questions about the land, carrying capacity and its history. This initial inspection of grazing land took two hours and they spent a further one and a half hours inspecting the buildings and servicing facilities plus speaking to the tired and down-trodden owner and wife who reflected Mr Brody's indifference.

It was a very quiet drive back to their SUV.

"Well?"

Vic almost said well what? But that would be unhelpful.

"Yes, we are interested."

Nina looked dismayed and Mr Brody looked vacant until he grunted, "You'll have to pay their asking price."

"I first need to study the ranch accounts, copies of which Mr Hunger said were at your office. Then I need two days to make a thorough inspection on a horse but a four-wheeler bike will do. Then I may be ready to negotiate over price."

"They want their asking price."

That rattled Vic. "I understand what you are saying but now you understand this: After those studies I may be ready to negotiate over price."

"Suit yourself."

"What time should we come in tomorrow to look over the accounts?"

"I'm off tonight on a trip. Come back next Tuesday."

"Surely there's someone in your office who can hand over the accounts for us to inspect?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"Because you are my clients."

Nina became fired up. "Then cancel your trip and give us service."

That rattled Mr Brody who snapped, "Who asked for you to open your mouth?"

Vic spun around to Nina who was in the back seat, finger over his lips. She gritted her teeth and looked out the window. They drove on in silence.

"Well?" their surely agent grunted.

Vic and Nina left the vehicle and Nina went to the driver's window.

"Answer him, but be polite Nina."

"We have no response to that rude question of yours," Nina said, acting most ladylike.

She walked over to her vehicle, Vic following, neither looking back.

They stared straight ahead as Mr Brody's vehicle turned and roared by them. Without a word Vic went to the rear of their vehicle and pulled two cans of beer from the refrigerated storage box.

He returned, opened a can and handed it to Nina and ripped open his can. They sipped in silence until Vic said, "This is the place but it's over-priced – this I know in my bones."

"It's a dump and that agent is an asshole."

"Oh sweetie, language."

"That man is a disgrace to the profession of Realtors or whatever it's called."

"Agreed but I point out every profession has its misfits, even the clergy."

"The clergy? What has that to do with us buying a ranch?"

"I just pray we succeed in buying the ranch. But let's talk later when we're both cooled down."

They returned to their hotel. That night Nina had a near sleepless night and wouldn't allow Vic to touch her. She fell asleep soundly just before dawn and after she appeared really settled Vic wrote her a note saying he'd be back to take her to lunch.

Vic returned to ranch and drove slowly, stopping often, down its western road boundary, just attempting to acquire a good feel for the land. The feeling he ended up with pleased him. He noted the cattle looked as sleek as one would expect them to be at this time of year. Water levels in the dams were high and judging by the regrowth on the flatter pastureland, haymaking had been extensive. The time had arrived when Nina should be invited to disclose just how much money she had to invest; it needed to be heaps. 

Vic sighed, trying unsuccessfully to remember the line in a song about an impossible dream.

Entering Brody Real Estate & Appraisals Ltd, Vic asked mischievously to see Mr Brody and was told he was away for a few days, fishing. Well, fishing eh, the mean-ass grump. Vic asked to see the next person in charge. 

"That's his daughter, Mrs Masters," the receptionist said. "She has a client with her at the moment. Please sit over there and I'll fetch coffee." 

The receptionist returned with coffee in two mugs and sat down beside Vic and spoke to him pleasantly and then asked was he looking to buy a property.

He told Kim French he was interested in the Hunger Ranch. 

"Oh yes, the Lazy K Upright K." 

She acted as if she knew about the property, Vic thought, so asked what did she think of it?

"Rather run down," said Kim and rather overpriced in my opinion but remember I'm only a receptionist, although all my live I've lived on ranches. "I assisted Leigh do our appraisal."

Vic nodded. "I had an awful time with Mr Brody yesterday. I didn't put a foot wrong but he was broody and unhelpful almost to the point of scaring me off."

"Oh dear, that sounds like our Mr Brody on one of his bad days. In comparison you'll really like Leigh. She's our principal appraiser and general manager. Here she is with her client now."

Vic eyed Leigh and decided: Expressive, dresses expensively, looks to be open and is about thirty with a bastard of a father. Only when he'd been introduced to Leigh Masters and was following her into her office did her remember he hadn't appraised her tits. He grinned thinking he must be getting old, looked down and thought: nice ass.

"You are my father's client, you said."

"Yes, but I wish to sack him and appoint you."

"It doesn't really work like that. However, please tell me why you are thinking that way."

"Sit back and listen and I'll tell you why. It's the truth so don't get upset with me."

"Very well. Shoot."

Vic gave it to her both barrels.

"Sounds like one of his bad days. I am profoundly sorry you struck him like that. Please excuse me for a moment."

Leigh returned with the brown leather covered diary Vic had seen her father carrying the previous day. She put on reading glasses with bright red frames that suited her white skin and long black hair.

"Those glasses suit you," he said conversationally.

"Thank you for the compliment," she said, not looking up from reading.

A minute later she removed her glasses and smiled. "My father's notes mention a woman."

"Yes, my partner."

"I guess by now you would have learned my father believes in the old adage a woman's place is in the kitchen?"

"Hell yes. So how is it you're in business with him?"

"It's where I wanted to be. He had no option because I don't take shit from anyone and that's including my dominant, arrogant father."

She said that calmly.

Vic grinned. "That makes us both on the same side."

"I rather like you for saying that so charmingly, Mr Haig. You could have been very abusive about my father. What do you want me to do?"

Vic said he'd like to bring his domestic and business partner Nina Raymond into the office after lunch to inspect the Hunger Ranch accounts and to arrange for him to thoroughly inspect the ranch over the next two days.

"The accounts yes: I'll instruct Kim to give them to you call this afternoon," Leigh said, making a note. "Now before continuing could I clear one matter up? The note here says you appear to have the knowledge of a rancher but my father doubts you have the money for this purchase."

"We have four million so require a willing bank to top us up."

"That shouldn't be a problem."

Leigh turned to her diary. "I can give you all day tomorrow by changing to appraisals to the following morning which shouldn't be a problem to add to an appointment that cannot be changed as the client is flying in and flying out on a tight schedule. Then I can be with you from around 1:00 until dark."

"You'll accompany me for one and a half days? That's very generous of you."

"We want to sell the property to you, Mr Haig, despite my father's apparent best efforts to achieve the opposite result. Four wheelers or horses?

"Horses."

"Good, my husband and I have a ranch. I'll trailer them in. The Hungers only have two nags. I would rather your partner not come. The Hungers don't regard women as buyers or women as having money. I know and apologize; they are of my father's generation and are unlikely to change. Is that a problem?"

"I might have my head knocked off when I tell her."

"Well I can call her now; I won't be in this afternoon when you call."




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 04



"It's okay – she doesn't much like the Hungers because they were virtually inhospitable to us which means I have to sell the idea of buying this property to Nina before I turn around to negotiate its purchase."

"I see. Perhaps you should work out that problem with your Nina before we inspect the ranch."

"Pardon me, Leigh – please call me Vic. Could you join us for lunch and talk to Nina about the sad owners and their ranch.. You have a lovely way abgout you and your sincerity could turn Nina around. A half-hour lunch if you can't spare an hour."

"Very well Vic. As I told you before our company wants to make this sale. Mrs Hunger is my aunt, my mother's sister."

"I see," Vic said. "Then being related, you may be no more enthusiastic about encouraging them to drop their no negotiation stance than your father. Perhaps I'm wrong about that?"

"Vic, one more time: This company wants to make that sale. In almost every instance vendors want the prospective purchasers to pay more money than what they think the property is worth while prospective purchasers want to go the other way and squeeze the vendors. Astute negotiations effectively make the sales by drawing the two principal parties to the transaction to a mutually agreed figure; if not the prospect walks away. I already have a bank's loan appraisal on that property, confirmed twice for two other clients who failed with their offers. Unless you pay more than the current asking price, which is most unlikely, you and Nina will easily fall within the bank's lending requirements providing your financial histories reveal no concerns."

"That's great news, Leigh. I confirm all I want to achieve in any property we decided to buy is to pay a fair price. I'll commission my own appraisal on Hunger Ranch."

"I could ask the bank to allow me to reveal to you its appraisal and for the Hungers to authorize me to show you my appraisal, updated only a month ago."

"Very well. If I sight both I don't believe I'll need another appraisal but I'd have to check with Nina because most of our four million dollars is her money."

"Excellent. May I suggest 12:30 for lunch just across from us; it's reasonable quality and excellent service. It's called The Restaurant."

"Excellent – we'll be there at 12.30. It's been lovely dealing with you."

"In comparison?"

"I was simply thinking it's been lovely dealing with you because I feel I've made real progress. Your father was not on my mind."

Vic drove back to the hotel smiling. It was great being on track. He knew in his heart this was the property. There were negatives: the homestead was crap and the out buildings showed neglect and essential equipment was outdated and on its last legs. Moreover the grazing was rank because it was carrying at present just under 2500 head of cattle. He imagined it would carry perhaps 4000 plus calves when the whole ranch operation was out of crawler gear. 

Vic yelled through the open window of the SUV, "Yippee!" He was growing in confidence he and Leigh would get the job done. One thing he was sure about though: he wasn't into the reckless spending of Nina's money. The Hungers wanted $7,250,000; perhaps well worth it because of the untapped potential if he were correct in his thinking. He thought they should not spend over $5.5 to $5.8 million. The parties were a long ways apart but at least Leigh was talking negotiation.

Vic had found out the previous night how much Nina could front up with. His mouth hit his boots when she confessed to "almost $27,000,000" with scarcely any more emotion that he would have expected from her in saying $27,000. He almost wet himself and covered up, laughing, "What, have you robbed a bank?"

She smiled, looking down on to the riverside at a guy on a Palomino riding ahead of two small kids on their ponies. "My mother was a lucky heiress, the daughter of Elizabeth McCrone who inherited her millions from her parents who'd owned an entire valley in which their ranch lay, flooded the whole lot with an earth dam and sold water allowing incoming ranchers to convert hitherto badlands into solid-heart grazing land. The really big money came when my grandmother sold out to a cooperative of new generation ranchers who wanted control of that dam."

"Control come hell or high water despite the asking price?"

"Yes, but not at the outset," Nina smiled. "My grandmother was one tough lady. When she found the cooperative demanding their offer or nothing, she called in big city interests. The price shot up and earnest negotiations were underway. She ended up allowing the ranchers to pay off their join purchase over ten years at market rate interest less 1 percent and picked up on the foreclosures of the weaker ranchers because she had the vision to see potential."

"Where was your grandfather when all this was going on?"

Nina's smile didn't leave her face: "Drinking, gambling and whoring – the things men do. I'll be landing another few million when my father's estate is wound up. My mother and my father and my grandmother always made much more money than what they spent and were great at doing business; all that money mounts up during lifetimes."

Vic grinned. Nina had occasionally mentioned there was plenty of money if they ever needed it. He'd gathered from that she could be loaded but with nothing like the wealth she's finally revealed to him.

Jesus!

His thoughts had gone wild. They could buy a huge spread already well up to scratch or they could buy numerous factories and sit back and watch the money roll in.

We?

Ah, yes. Nina could, he sighed. His mind switched back to buying a rundown ranch with potential. Okay, Nina would front with the major part of their input and finance improvements but in time if his vision proved itself, he'd have the cash flow to begin paying down Nina's shareholding until they arrived at a true 50-50 partnership and then worked on reducing the bank mortgage. Oh well. He then thought about guys horning in to try to marry this sexy young multi-million-dollar baby and switched to attempting to imagine her grandfather's whoring activity.

Nina was dressed for lunch asleep in a chair in the hotel reception area when Vic arrived, but only dozing; she opened one eye as he approached. Damn, she wasn't smiling.

"Hi, he grinned. I haven't been out drinking, gambling and whoring – I went out and looked at the ranch along the boundary line and then went to that horrible man's real estate office and ended up talking to his daughter."

"And you were really taken with her?"

"No - yes," Vic replied indignantly. Then realizing how confusing that must sound he realized he'd have to explain in full his visit to the real estate office.

"Come up while I shower and change for lunch. We are taking that real estate woman to lunch. Once you listen to what I found out from her and her interest in securing that sale her father had almost blown, you'll be able to make your own mind up about her. You'll see she's not my type."

"Oh, you have a type, do you?"

"Yes – very early twenties, great smile, soft personality, adores guys in their late thirties and never talks much about herself. Oh, also loves ranching."

"That sounds rather like me," she teased. "I'll come up to the room with you but you're not getting it; perhaps after lunch if this agent woman of yours cheers me up."

"Fine," Vic said relieved. "In bed or one a chair?"

"What are you talking about?"

"After lunch activity; as a business woman Leigh will impress you greatly."

* * *

"Oh," groaned Nina late mid-afternoon when they'd returned from lunch and then inspecting the ranch accounts. Vic was sending awesome feeling through her lower trunk as he slammed into her. He had her across the chair sideways, head low down, legs high and spread, one jammed against the back of the chair. She'd began complaining of discomfort as he stood behind her. He inserted his cock and soon his downward thrusts into what she knew was her widely exposed vagina; his efforts were making her whimper in delight. They both heated up, sweating and she was about to explode.

"Aaaaaaagh!" she cried, coating his dick in new juices at the same time he'd dug into flesh just above her hipbones to pull himself into maximum depth as he ejaculated.

"You awful man, bruising and pounding me in discomfort like that."

But as he lifted her to carry her to doze on the bed, saying he'd fetch a towel, she kissed him deeply and sighed, saying, "Let's do it that way again every so often."

"You actually can purchase a rounded chair that makes it far more comfortable for the woman but it produces the same result for her."

"Good, let's go to the city Friday unless we are in negotiations. What is the chair called?"

"Dunno although I remember it actually was designed for mothers nursing their new-borne."

"Oh you men, always with one thing top of mind. I'll know where to shop."

He fetched the towel and began wiping her gently. She loved him doing that and encouraged it, teaching him that women don't really like men rolling away or even walking from them as soon as they'd ejaculated the final time.

"I feel safe with you being with that woman all day tomorrow and I really like her. I also agree she's definitely not your type – she is too severe for you, too focused and doesn't laugh much and she gave me the impression she'd happily married. They have two young children which her mother takes and collects from school."

"Thank goodness that's sorted out."

"She'll wait till the next afternoon before she attempts to seduce you."

"Are you mad?"

"I know women better than you do. She wants this sale to release her suffering aunt and uncle. They'd had four previous promising purchasers walk away."

"That was because her stupid father refused to convince his clients to negotiate."

"It appears so. But I see it in your eyes, Vic. You want that land. So we'll get it come hell or high water, even if we have to pay the full asking price."

"No – around six mil is tops."

"Then do what it takes, darling. I won't mind."

Vic smiled grimly. "Fucking that woman would not create a sale. She needs to convince her aunt this is their last chance. I'll insist you be there at the negotiations – I'll insist they be held in Leigh's office."

"She's already said they want final discussions to start over lunch in their kitchen." 

"So they did. I accept they don't want women not well-known to them because of that bitch who knifed their son in the guts for refusing to marry her and he died that horrible death in front of them."

"After hearing that I can understand why they're still traumatized after eighteen months," Nina said.

"Well, I have sympathy for them but it has to ends sometime. You'll be there for the negotiations, Nina. It's either that or no sale. In fact unless they agree to you riding with us Wednesday afternoon when I go with Leigh then we're out of here."

"You want that ranch so badly."

"Yep, for us, and unless your heart is in involvement then it's no go. That southern range is where the prime grazing lands lie; I learned that when looking across some of that land this morning. Great water supplies, tilted for good water run-out and similarly for natural water flow when irrigated in the summer-autumn dry period. Spotting where the hay is made encouraged me to look closer. The rougher north and high land is okay for cattle but also for riding trails, outdoor adventure facilities and the sales info indicates there is a 15-acre long lake which probably is great for watercraft."

"Fifteen acres – wouldn't that be better drained and turned into pasture?"

"Oh, Miss Super Efficient. Quite right on paper but I bet it's deep enough to never go dry because it looks rocky up there – a natural reservoir. If a 100-year great drought occurs, our cattle would have water. Anyways, what's fifteen acres when we are looking at buying 63,800 acres?"

Leigh already had her two horses saddled up outside the barn when Vic arrived. He looked at the changed woman with increased interest. She had her hair tied back and was wearing a Stetson, checked shirt opened very how down, tight jeans and riding boots. He thought if he were offered it, he's have a very hard job turning it down.

But apart from the very friendly "Hi" she was all business. "Aunt Mae said it was okay to ride out with Nina as well tomorrow and she'd try to talk Uncle John into allowing Nina to participate in discussions on Friday. I'll leave these two horses here and bring the third when I return tomorrow afternoon. Can Nina ride?"

"Yep."

"I take it you can, asking to inspect on horseback."

"Yes, I thought I'd get a better feel for the land on horseback."

"You're damn right about that; I hate riding on four wheelers. Which horse do you want?"

"The sorrel."

"So you know horses," she smiled. "Take this backpack – it has our wine, coffee and a towel for you; I'll carry the food."

"Towel?"

"It will be hot-hot by noon when we arrive at Fisherman's Lake."

"Oh, the lake. You mean a swim?"

"Yes, unless like some men, my husband included, and are a bit shy of water."

"That's only in the bathroom."

She giggled as she mounted. 

Vic thought well, if sex is offered it will be up at the lake. But it wasn't, despite them both swimming nude and she glancing more than once at his half-erect cock while he attempted to avoid looking at the thatch between her disappointingly rather plump thighs, but her tits were great despite being a little droopy. He wondered if she was pleased he now sported a completely shaven cock and balls assembly.

They emerged from the water and she turned her back on him while she dried herself, with no request to have him dry her back. Vic was about to step into his briefs when he saw her crouched, full nude, over his backpack and removing the wine and two glasses wrapped in a cloth. So, it was nude lunching.

They relaxed in the sun, heads in the shadow of a tree after eating a great lunch, replete – except for sex. But they dressed without Leigh even looking as if she were interested.

"Take your horse," he offered.

"No, only the best for you, Mr Buyer."

Vic scowled wishing she'd offered him her best, leaving him to struggle between licking his lips and turning her down. Oh, what a great dilemma to resolve. He looked up to see she'd caught him scowling. Without changing her thoughtful expression she said they should head up to the summer pastures where the cattle were.

It was a mixed herd ranging from tear-away calves to bulls. A bull trotted out from a small group of cattle to greet the arrivals aggressively. Vic spotted the movement from the corner of his eye, dug in his boots and Eva the sorrel took off on almost full power as Vic cut across the front of Leigh and charged at the charging two-year-old cross-bred bull.

"Oh shit!" Vic heard Leigh exclaim as he took off his Stetson. Waving it furiously he shouted "Ee-hah". The young bull lost his bravado, swerved to the right, slowed and trotted back to its group, tail up as if celebrating victory.

"Eva's not into wrangling," Leigh sniffed a little frigidly as Eva and rider returned to her side, skidding back in speed to an easy walk.

Ignoring that Vic grinned. "What do I get for saving your life?"

"Phooey. Would a kiss suffice?" she asked leaning towards him.

He took the offer and noticed she was slow to break away, fingers hooked into his belt to keep them from drifting apart.

"Like that?" he grinned.

"I'd be a liar to say no, but that's all you're getting."

They wove between the groups of cattle.

"How did you appraise this property?"

"On the basis of 'as is' with a little added because it's rather under-stocked at the moment as any cattleman would see for himself."

"What about copies of your and the bank's appraisal?"

"Back in my vehicle ready to hand you if you're satisfied with today's outing. You'll be aware that the best is to come tomorrow when we ride the flatter pasturelands."

"The info sheet says the Hunger's often squeeze out four month's grazing up here. I guess that means six week's grazing well after the spring thaw, ninety days to spell it for regrowth then up to another eight weeks until the snows come and set?"

"Yes, that's it. Are you aware you'd double the grazing time up here with controlled grass management using electric fencing?"

"It's what I was thinking."

"Good boy. Come on, race you to that clump of alpine pines four hundred yards away – they're on the edge of a huge drop so don't over-shoot. Give me a good start because you're on Eva."

Vic swung from the saddle. "You take Eva. Give me fifty yard start on Kitty and let's see what happens – the rider's effort also counts."

"Okay," she said, flinging herself across to the startled Eva whom she kept calm by talking to her. "What does the winner get?"

"Kisses."

"And if you win."

"Oh, a lot more than that," Vic said, heaving himself up on to Kitty."

"No way are you getting that," she laughed and was away.

"You cheating bitch!" Vic yelled and she gave him the fingers crying, "Sucker."

He pushed Kitty quickly into a gallop, noting her strength so correctly assumed the difference between the two horses was simply in top end speed. To win this he needed a break. 

Well. he received two.

Leigh slowed to weave through an outcrop of rocks, expertly steering Eva with quick pulls of the reins as well as moving her body. In contrast, Vic took a risk: he booted Kitty and slackened off the reins, moving with her when she changed direction, choosing her own route. She proved herself competitive and up to the task, scarcely slowing. 

With less than a hundred yards to go Leigh turned to check on Vic's whereabouts and sighting him so close that she pulled on her left rein in shock, slowing Eva and almost causing her to stumble. Vic lowered his upper body and shouted, 'Eeeh-haw!' and although not digging in his heels felt Kitty take up the challenge. But it was no use. With twenty yards to go on the debris-free surface Leigh drew Eva's nose level with Vic's elbow; he waited for them to draw away, knowing no way was he going to get a third break. But to his amazement Eva was held to maintain that position as they reached the trees and stopped. 

The riders circled the horses while they cooled down. They then walked them to the shade.

"You could have romped ahead in that last twenty yards."

"Eva was tired."

He scoffed at that.

"Where do you wish to claim your prize?" Leigh asked coyly.

"Here will do," Vic said pulling her to the ground.

They kissed while she removed her shirt and bra.

"Here, kiss and suck these then I want to ask you something."

Vic did as he was asked then said, "I anticipate the question. My answer is no, I don't have a condom."

"That's okay; I have a five-pack. What I wanted to ask was, are you certain about doing this? Nina is obviously so much in love with you and..."

"Obviously in love with me?"

"Yes, any fool can see that. Besides she's putting up a lot of money to join you in this project, isn't she?"

"Most of it."

"Then back off Vic, you can't possibly..."

"Life is not only about love and money, Leigh. Sometimes we have the right to weaken."

"You're only saying that to soften me up."

Vic stood up, dropped his trousers and briefs and displayed his cock now at full erection and dripping slightly. 

"Ohmigod," Leigh breathed, her eyes now huge.

"You want this, Leigh. Tell me why?"

She frowned and then weakened, reaching to clutch the not yet throbbing or damp projection from above Vic's balls. "It's almost five years since I was with another man other than my husband, ane his cock is rather small. Sometimes I dream...well, you can guess."

While Leigh reached into her top pocket for the condom, Leigh said Nina would be excited when he returned so he could spare only one shot. "What is your dream position?"




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 04



Placing the condom on Vic, panting and turning bright red, Leigh told him.

They had an uneventful return to the barn. The vendors remained out of sight and eventually Vic drove off after kissing Leigh goodbye. They were positioned out of sight of the homestead and while kissing, he lightly rubbed her pussy that still felt swollen, even through her jeans.

"I shall long remember that glorious fuck," she said. Then tittering added, "So I now only have the memory of you?"

"Dead ends are part of life," Vic said unhelpfully. "Though who knows; perhaps one day I shall find you up there beside those pines, waiting for me, waving a condom in greeting."

She laughed, then clasping his head behind his ears, kissed Vic deeply.

Vic followed Leigh slowly out to the secondary highway. By the time he reached the gates she'd turned right and had disappeared. He stopped and scanned both appraisals – one done to allow the vendors to fix their selling price, the other done independently to allow the bank to fix its limit and terms for a mortgage. In both instances Vic smiled. 

He drove slowly hoping human and horse sweat would conceal any scent of a woman on him. He wanted that because he had decided Nina wouldn't ask him had he fucked Leigh and he was not about to offer such information. That's why he only wanted to discharge once with Leigh – he wanted Nina surprised tonight to find his gun was loaded.

Leigh was right, it had been a glorious fuck. She'd half-stuffed a swollen breast with very red and spiked nipple down his mouth while panting and dribble saliva on to him as she worked herself into near-frenzy. Then he ate her out and being given that release she calmed down. She loved it when offering him a scoop of her juice he licked her fingers but not only that, he scooped out more juice and fed it to her. No man had ever done that even-handed exchange with her before, she confessed.

And the dream fuck she wanted? A standing up one. She said her husband and the other two men she'd been with since her early marriage didn't have the extra length required to stop the angry red cockhead from popping out.

Leigh's eyes had bulged as Vic, standing up against a tree, had lifted her up and while helping to hold her in position, had fed the angry red cockhead so deeply into her that her eyes almost began gyrating in ecstasy. It was great for him as well, because despite being so high up it was a very hot day and they sweated copiously; he of course was a fan of sweaty wet flesh slapping together lewdly.

Despite his length it still popped out and screaming in sexual tension Leigh would feel for it and ram it back in; yes, ram it. She was on fire. He allowed her to gush twice before lowering her to the ground and then jacked off into her mouth, between greedy lips. It was so great for both of them. 

Riding back she reached across to take his hand. She'd wept in pleasure when he told her what a great fuck she had been.

"Without you I wouldn't have been the great gentleman pleaser I turn into today," she sobbed. 

Vic turned towards her to made sure she registered his expression of proud acknowledgement; she squeezed his fingers until they hurt.

To be continued...



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 05



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who either mistook her for a hooker or an easy opportunity. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her terminally ill widowed father. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina's SUV with no destination in mind. The morning after they begin their adventure into the unknown, Nina returns to check on her father, to find he's dying and she and Vic temporarily lose contact. They are reunited and spend a year on a cattle and horse ranch which takes paying guests as ranch dudes. They move on to a small coastal town where they befriend a computer and video store owner who employs them to help resuscitate his business. Three months later Nina and Vic leave and at a café late that morning decide to head east into traditional cattle country and look for a run-down ranch to buy and build up. Nina reveals she's the daughter of an heiress and inherited her mother's wealth. Although pleased she is wealthy Vic decides it's best they don't overspend as he wishes to pay his way to end up being in 50-50 partnership with Nina. They are now ready to negotiate for the purchase of a privately owned but neglected ranch of 63,800 acres.

* * * 

Vic and Nina entered the Hunger's property and drove to the barn. Nina watched Vic kissed Leigh on the cheek casually and received a warm response but nothing untoward. Without any delay Leigh turned and kissed Nina on the cheek with no apparent difference than the greeting Vic had received, which eased Nina's suspicion about those two. Well, so what if they had fooled around, she thought; she'd indicated to Vic before he left her the previous day he was welcome to do whatever was necessary to win Leigh's allegiance. 

Leigh invited Nina to pick the horse she wanted. Nina opted for the sorrel called Kitty and hoped Vic would end up with the dun called Archer; that's what happened. Nina was pleased about that because a few days earlier she'd seen a heart warming sight of a man on a Palomino riding ahead of two children on their ponies. Nina hoped that one day Vic would have two children to go riding with - Austin and Natalie, two of her favorite names for youngsters. She colored when she realized what she'd just thought; fortunately Vic and Leigh were about to mount their horses so her embarrassment went unnoticed. They set off without the reclusive vendors emerging from the homestead to wave at them.

"Oh what a great afternoon to be riding the range," Nina said, kicking Eva into a canter, the other two riders following suit.

Mid-afternoon they stopped under trees to have coffee and cookies and arrived back at the homestead just on 6:00, the vendors continuing to remain out of sight. Weird, thought Nina, who was very happy with what she'd seen after Vic and Leigh had pointed out potential. They unsaddled their horses and Leigh set Eva free to graze in the vast 'home' paddock, saying she would collect her next morning as she could only trailer two horses at once.

She looked at her clients keenly, "Well – do we enter negotiations here over lunch tomorrow?"

Vic looked at Nina and waited for her to respond. He was happy but was she?

"I liked what I saw out there Vic. I cannot visualize all of the potential that you talk about but I'm satisfied to complete the purchase, providing we come to a price that you find acceptable."

"Right Leigh, we rely on you to make your aunt and uncle more flexible in seeking their exit price," Vic said. "We want to purchase the ranch as a doing concern, they just removing their personal possessions."

"That's being positive, Vic," Leigh said. "I'll do my best to encourage an amicable resolution. Anything else I need to know?"

"Yes, tell them this," Vic said. "Unless we have reached total agreement on the sale price by 2:30 tomorrow, Nina and I are out of here."

"Is that fair?"

"You heard him, Leigh," Nina said. "Two and a half hours is plenty of time to reach agreement provided the vendors are willing sellers. The ranch is rundown, the sale price needs to reflect that so please make our position clear: a fair price otherwise we are out of here."

"My aunt and uncle are not people who like to rush into things."

"They've had plenty of time to think, what with those other offers coming to nothing," Nina said unwaveringly. "It's decision time for them, time to lower their asking price and become realistic."

"Vic?"

"I've nothing further to add except tell them we are thinking $5.5 million but could be pushed a little higher."

"They won't agree to that," Leigh sighed.

"Well talk to them; call us if we're not required to front up at noon tomorrow," Vic said. "Make a sale happen, Leigh."

"Okay guys, I'll do my very best," Leigh sighed.

As Vic and Nina drove off, Nina asked whether it had been wise to indicate they were thinking $5.5 million. Vic said revealing that established negotiating boundaries, giving the vendors something to think about over-night. He realized Leigh thought that figure was too low but it wasn't too far lower than the independent appraisal submitted to the bank. As well, Leigh's appraisal was lower than the asking price, strongly indicating there was room for both sides to adjust their stances.

"But the Hungers won't will they; they are obstinate?"

"Dunno Nina. They'll talk long and hard tonight so let's see what tomorrow brings."

Nina and Vic arrived at the ranch just on midday, wearing western gear hoping to mentally confirm them as willing buyers. Leigh came from the homestead to welcome them, smiling but there were no kisses.

"Come in. We've decided to eat before negotiations commence.

Within half an hour after a very indifferent meal, no wine and bad coffee to follow, a deal had been finalized – payment of $5,920,000 as a going concern.

Leigh called the bank and returned smiling. She told Nina and Vic, "Your application has been approved, effective from settlement day. We'll all meet at my office at 11:00 tomorrow to complete the paper work – agreed everyone?" Everyone nodded. The Hungers shook hands with Nina and Vic and left the room.

"After paying off their mortgages including late payment penalties and paying off all other debts and commission, my aunt and uncle will walk away with almost $1 million, which means they'll retire in considerable comfort," Leigh said. "Our company achieves the sale and you have several thousand extra in kitty to effect improvements. I'm happy with the outcome and wish you well. I'd like you to come and meet my husband at our ranch for dinner tomorrow night. Is that convenient? I feel we'll end up being very good friends."

Nina and Vic accepted with thanks. As they drove away she hugged Vic's arm. "We are ranchers – or will be on settlement day."

"Yes," he grinned triumphantly. "When we arrive back at the hotel and have our drinks in front of us, let's call Hannah and Joe to tell them the news and ask if we could visit them soon for a few of days. The next five weeks are doing to drag for us."

"But why there?"

"If their daughter Margo and son are going to close down the guest operation, I want to negotiate for the purchase of the smaller cabins and if the price is right having them trucked here; that ought to be much cheaper than building from scratch. The son-in-law wants to end guest ranching when the snows come."

"If that's what you want to do, let's do it."

"Thanks darling," Vic said, reaching to stroke her cheek, keeping an eye on the road. "I've done some sketching and gone into economics and possible trade, though it's difficult finding any data on that. It's also we are nearer 300 miles than 200 miles from the city. I figure we should limit ourselves to an adult only operation for up to forty guests and make it a Monday to Saturday operation, giving us every Sunday free – to stay in bed if she wish.

"Sounds good but I'd like to engage an outside consultant if you don't mind," Nina said. "We need a business plan and a marketing plan including joining guest ranch stays websites."

Vic said that made sense. "I run the ranch and you run the guest operation – okay?"

"Yes, that's what my thoughts were, exactly. We are such a great team. I'll stray outside at times because I hope to become a cowgirl. In return you are invited to stray into the guest operation."

Vic laughed, very happily.

* * *

Nina consumed a little too much wine too quickly before and during dinner next evening so Leigh's husband Dean Masters offered to sit out on the porch with her until she felt better. Vic said he'd help Leigh clear away.

"I prepared the way for a satisfactory outcome in those negotiations yesterday," Leigh said, reaching for him. "Am I to receive my little reward?"

"Are you mad?" Vic whispered, looking nervously at the door.

"The door's open; if either of them come across the room we'll hear them. I'm sure the way Nina was behaving when we finished the meal she'll be asleep. Besides, it's not uncommon for Dean to nap immediately after dinner when out there on his favorite chair."

"You're out of your mind."

"I assure you we won't be caught."

"Well, let's keep our clothes on, eh."

"I'll make it easier for you – I'll be back in a minute."

Vic piled plates and cutlery into the dishwasher, his blood running fast, but didn't turn it on fearing the noise would block out footsteps. Leigh returned giggling, saying she was only wearing her dress. She handed Vic a condom.

"I'd like to bend over the kitchen table. Kiss me and rub my breasts."

Vic had no problem with that but first stood face to face. After several kisses he pulled down the low neck of Leigh's dress and buried his face into her breasts. She groaned and unzipped him with one hand, her other hand holding his head in place.

"I'm ready," she panted, pink-faced and licking his pre-cum off her hand. Vic listened, heard no sound from the porch, and so eased Leigh over the table. After easing on the condom he flicked up her dress and pushed in his dick, a little roughly.

Instead of complaining, Leigh groaned and said that was marvelous, she felt almost ready to burst.

Vic began pumping, feeling his heat rising and he pulled her thighs together a little to increase the friction. At that Leigh convulsed and groaned as her pulled her head back by her hair. He reached under and rubbed her clit, making her convulse and groan again. 

"That's enough," he whispered.

"You haven't ejaculated," she complained. "Fuck my tits – I'll unbutton my dress front."

Vic looked nervously at the doorway. At least no-one was standing there watching. He removed the condom and placed it into a can in the trash bin under the sink bench and squeezed the can flat, burying it deep into the trash. 

Dipping his fingers into Leigh's sopping cunt Vic coated his dick, pulling her half off the table so her lower body dropped to allow him to fuck those droopy tits of hers comfortably; she squeezing them and releasing them against his thrusts and withdrawals. When his face contorted Leigh grabbed his cock in the upward thrust and directed it into her mouth just as he began ejaculating. She took half of his length down her throat and managed the exchange without spilling a drop, although gagging a bit.

Leigh and Vic were cleaned up and sitting on the sofa together watching TV when Dean came in, grinned and said, "You two look comfortable. Sorry to disturb your TV watching Vic but Nina is complaining of a headache. Want me to take her back to the hotel or will you guys stay the night?"

Vic looked at the mild, fair-headed and already balding host wondering how on earth he could keep the lively Leigh happy.

"Yes stay," Leigh urged, grabbing Vic by the arm.

"Thanks but I'll take Leigh back to the hotel; she'll sleep undisturbed in the morning for as long as she wishes." 

Vic carried Nina across to the SUV, turned and shook Dean's hand, thanking him for his hospitality. He pecked Leigh on the cheek.

"Christ Vic, even my mother kisses Leigh with more enthusiasm than that," Dean chuckled. Leigh launched herself at Vic, burying her tongue into his mouth.

Dean laughed. "As you can see, Vic, this babe of me is made for kissing. I think she's rather taken by you."

Slapping Dean on the back Vic laughed. "Thanks for the great evening; I think we all drank a little too much liquor."

"Great meeting you Dean: goodnight Leigh."

In the morning Vic sat on the deck outside their suite with a heavy heart, ashamed of himself. He accepted he was a scoundrel, traveling along the road with a sweet Nina he'd saved from molestation, fucking any women who looked at him twice while Nina went along immaculate in behavior and never denying him unless she was menstruating. He'd groaned, acknowledging his lack of loyalty, knowing it was up to him to extinguish such treachery.

Vic fell asleep with the soft early morning warming him dreaming of rustling cattle to build up his and Nina's herd. Oh what a callous, treacherous, deceitful partner of perhaps the loveliest woman he'd ever associated with and that included his mom.

A little over an hour later Vic dimly heard a beautiful sound that pierced his black heart: "Coffee darling?" 

Opening his eyes he saw the vision, Nita still in her bra and panties he'd left her in the previous night; that headache had been fierce judging by the way she appeared to be so upset, so he skipped stripping her completely.

"Hello darling; feeling better?" he enquired, taking the mug and thanking her. Oh what wonderful service he received from her, in every way.

"It's becoming hot out here, care to join me inside?"

Vic felt immediately invigorated at the possibility of being led into sex although her face looked troubled as if she wasn't yet fully recovered. Still, women around the world screwed up their faces on the bed looking at the ceiling while being pounded. At least that meant a bloke could get a shot away. He cringed: So, is that all there is to your life – getting shots away? That cringe really was absolute embarrassment although Vic would be the first to acknowledge he had no shame.

Nina sat straight in her chair, head bowed, playing with a thick strand of hair hanging over her right eye.

God, she's pregnant was Vic's first thought.

Then she choked: "I had sex with Dean last night. I'm sorry, I so terribly sorry."

Vic sighed heavily in relief and looked up to see her bottom lip trembling. "Oh thank God you're not pregnant and have breast cancer – for a moment I feared the worst.

"Vic!" she screamed, running from the room.

You idiot, you've upset her; he thought and trailed her into the bedroom.

"Go away, leave me alone," she wept.

"Oh darling, I really wouldn't have minded had you been pregnant," he said, almost believing what he was saying.

Through the tears Nina stared at him pie-eyed. "You haven't been listening to me, have you? I was telling you I allowed Dean to have sex with me last night; I committed adultery or whatever it's called when you and your partner are unmarried."

"Did you enjoy it?"

"No I did not; I was terrified that you and Leigh were going to walk in on us. I'd been feeling terrible, wishing you were holding me. Dean began holding me and before I really knew was he was doing he was sucking my breast and fingering me; you know how that turns me on. I urged him saying no, no repeatedly and the fool began saying yes, yes; I became confused and the next thing I knew he had it in me so I groaned and lay back too weak to maintain a fight-back."

Nina wailed, "But Vic, the terrible thing was I enjoyed it."

"Hush, darling," Vic said stroking Nina's forehead. "I'm glad you didn't create a scene as it may have really upset Leigh and embarrassed me in front of her. I think you did the right thing."

"You think so?"

"Oh yes, unless it was rape?"

"Oh no, no. Don't even think of that dreadful thing. He had his way with me because I was overcome with liquor, almost to the point of vomiting, and the truth is I offered no resistance. I'm very much to blame. Will you ever be able to look at me again?"

"Well, I'll try dear, very hard, I promise. But don't be ashamed of enjoying sex, you always do, remember?"

"I do? Oh yes, but only male at a time."

"Well, there you go – Dean didn't have anyone with him last night, did he?"

"No definitely not – oh what are you saying?"

"Don't over-tax yourself. There's really no issue, darling. I am aware you behave ever so responsibly most of the time so what is a tiny indiscretion here and there? Just always ensure it's protected sex – that they wear condoms if they're male."

Nina shook her head as if attempting to clear it. "Now you listed Vic: I'm not seeing sex with other men and women. Oh God, what do you take me for? I just want sex with you."

"Of course you do darling, Vic soothed. "You have a long sleep, don't worry about. We'll have late lunch when you wake up and after that if you feel like it we'll do something together, even have sex if that's what you want. All is forgiven and nothing is changed darling; I respect you just the same and remain in awe that you want to associate with me. I feel ever so lucky." 

Vic held his quietly sobbing darling until she fell asleep.

Minutes later he was dawdling along the main street, not looking at much because mostly the stores were women's shops – dresses, shoes, accessories and face and body repair outfits. Vic was vaguely thinking if women stayed at home or at work instead of going shopping retail areas could easily be cut back to the third of their present size and that raised the question of economics such as loss of job opportunities. Those thoughts became suspended when he heard a toot and his name being called.

There was Leigh with a huge dump truck almost up her tailpipe but the driver didn't look aggressive – Vic checked that out and found the truck driver was a woman who was combing her hair. Leigh leaned over to talk to the SUV driver through the passenger's window.

"Hi," Leigh said, thrusting a million dollar smile at him.

"Hi – you're holding up traffic."

"Oh, am I? Then jump in."

He hesitated and thought why not, they were in mid-town only two blocks away from the hotel where Nina was sleeping; nothing was going to happen.

Leigh began pulling away before Vic had his door shut and the air horns of the dump truck gave a two-bar gentle hoot of 'Thank you.' He thought weren't women charming.

"How yer doing partner?" Leigh drawled.

"Nicely, thank you kindly," he said, lifting his Stetson a couple of inches.

"How's Nina?"

"Sleeping."

"Oh, want to fill in time coming with me to appraise an office block."

Vic said he'd like that to see how it's done.

It was a three-level vacant building. He expected he'd be asked to hold a tape but Leigh used a laser distance meter to check rooms against original plans for any alterations that may have reduced net letting space and also took digital camera shots. She worked quickly but managed to find time to chat. They finished in the top floor in the boss's office presumably because it had the best view, a bathroom with wardrobe and the old-fashion leather-topped desk and chair had been left behind to on-sell. 

Casually sitting in the chair Vic attempted to swivel round to look out the window behind but the mechanism was seized. Then followed a little piece of theatre: fluffing up her hair up and then locking her fingers together and holding them below her tummy and pretending to look very cute, Leigh said she was Miss Smith and had come about the job.

Vic picked up quickly. "Oh the job," he said gruffly.




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 05



"Yes the job," Leigh squeaked.

"Can you take shorthand?"

"No."

"Use recording machines and pocket digital recorders?"

"No."

"Then how good are you on a computer?"

"Hopeless."

"What about a typewriter?"

"What's a typewriter?"

"Oh dear, but you can make coffee?"

"Everyone says I ruin it."

The boss sighed. "Then what good are you to me?"

"This," she cooed, dancing up and sitting on his knee, turning up her face to be kissed.

The boss grumbled, "My wife won't approve of this; she's High Church."

"Well she's not invited to participate, is she?"

They began kissing. Vic thought it was safe to do that. But coming out of a deep kiss he became aware of his hand been lifted on to a bare breast. He attempted to drop but it but Leigh was holding his hand in place, trapping his palm right over the nipple. For a second he had this ridiculous thought the nipple was licking his palm.

Vic groaned; this simply would not do. You're out of here my boy, he resolved, becoming aware she must have thrust her hand between her own legs to be in position to pull down his zip like she was doing.

"Fuck, there goes one of my stockings," Leigh exclaimed. 

He thought presumably it had ripped as he was trying to roll her off him. Leigh grabbed his shirt to hold on and popped off two buttons.

"This is ridiculous," he growled. "I'm sorry, I can't."

"Why can't you?" she asked, some how now out of her shirt with one breast hanging out of her bra.

Leigh froze, swore and said the lift was coming up; it must be a salesperson from her office bringing someone on an inspection. She began gathering her clothes and told Vic to grab her leather bag that contained her diary, sketchbook and laser measurer and camera.

"Then quickly, into the bathroom." 

Vic had time to find his two shirt buttons before darting into the bathroom and closing the door.

"Why do we have to hide?" he asked. "We could have cleaned up and been above suspicion doing the measuring up when the arrived."

She giggled. "Look at my hair, the tear in this stocking, your dribble down this silk shirt and you are sweating with lipstick all over your face and on your shirt over your nipples. Quickly, into the wardrobe."

A few seconds later they heard the salesperson say, rather inexpertly, "This is the managing director's office, this desk and chair is not included in chattels but can be purchased, that is the view out the windows – lovely isn't it – and over here is a private bathroom."

"Oh that's a nice touch, isn't it John?" commented a women.

John said he supposed so.

"And this is the bathroom," said the salesperson. "There is the washbasin and the toilet and even a rather nice shower. And this is the wardrobe," she said, opening the door, the sudden burst of light making Vic blink. Leigh had her face buried in his chest and she was shaking, either from laughter or extreme remorse or perhaps both.

"Ah, unexpectedly deep, very nice," said the woman who was accompanying John. The doors closed and the 'intruders' walked away, leaving naughty Leigh and Vic in the left-hand side end of the wardrobe with only an empty dry cleaning bag between them and discovery plus some old telephone books largely concealing their legs.

"Oh, I was so mortified at the thought of being brought before a disciplinary board to face charges of unprofessional conduct," Leigh gasped. "At the same time I couldn't help laughing as it seemed so funny; I was thinking about their faces had they caught us out. We best stay here for a while – they could come back."

"What a bore."

"No Vic, fuck me."

Well he sure didn't want to tell Leigh that Dean had fucked Nina last night; she might go crazy or on the other hand be pleased and suggest they start going as a foursome. What a mess. "Okay, give me a condom."

"Oh damn, my handbag is under the front seat of the SUV. I know I wanted rubber in case of STDs but you're clean aren't you?"

"I believe so. What about you?"

"The same, I believe so."

"Neither of us really knows, do we?"

"That's true. Damn."

"It's okay, I'll give you a full on fingering."

Just before Leigh blasted away furiously Vic had worked up to having three fingers inside her, turned upwards and parallel. He shoveled as if there was no tomorrow and held a hand lightly over her mouth as she screamed her way to release.

Tidying up afterwards, they both agreed having her go off like that had been awesome.

Fifteen minutes later Vic went quietly into the hotel suite wearing his new shirt. He changed into his board-shorts, wrote a note to the still sleeping Nina that he would be at the rooftop pool, and went off for a couple of beers. 

Vic was pleased with himself as his gun was fully loaded. Leigh had felt too exhausted to suck him off before they finished that damn foolery in that office. Amazingly though, she'd come out of the dress shop in a new dress looking great, as if nothing but some light duties had happened in her day. He sighed: women were so magnificent at being deceitful.

* * *

Looking exceptional curvy yet trim at the right places, Nina sauntered out to the roof-top pool aware she'd stopped a few conversations but well used to that; a bikini was invented for her body type. 

She found Vic talking to someone; amazingly it was a guy yet the babes outnumbered the guys probably 4:1. She had an implausible thought: was Vic turning gay?

Vic jumped up from his sun loafer and as he closed around her to kiss her possessively – actually with high voltage. Nina glimpsed the older guy looking at her as if electrocuted; his eyes bulged.

"Sparking wine?"

"No, a lemon soda to start off darling."

"Oh, this is Shaun Love. Shaun, may I introduce the love of my life Nina."

"Hi Nina."

"Hi, no don't bother getting up," Nina said, reclining on Vic's loafer. "Stranger in town Shaun?"

"Not exactly."

They watched Vic walk across to the bar, Nina thinking a person either had to be a stranger in town or not. Vic's love handles were beginning to re-appear. He needed to be doing some cowboy work – she was glad cowboys were called cowboys in these parts with wranglers attributed to those folk who worked horses. Nina was becoming a fan of the cowboy tradition. She was also getting over the shock of Vic a few seconds ago describing her like that; he called her all sorts of lovely names but rarely in public and never had referred to her as the love of his life. He must have been shocked out of complacency by her stupid carry-on last night, thinking he'd almost lost her.

"Almost a stranger in town?" she asked, breaking the silence between them.

Shaun grinned. "Almost a day's ride from here." 

"Oh, really," she said, her voice displaying a flicker of interest.

"Yeah, within five miles of the spread you and Vic have purchased. Kate and I have a piece of dirt where she raises horses and because it's river flats with good feed she also buys in horses looking poorly and returns them to good condition before on-selling them."

"I thought horses were sliding into oblivion and Vic and I were living in the past by preferring them?"

"No, you're not alone. Even the smallest spreads in these parts are not without horses if only for the kids. Those damn bikes are efficient and can be just as treacherous as riding a horse, but they don't warm you up and look at you like a horse does and they can't move sideways as a horse can."

"So horses, eh. Do you do the cooking?"

"Pardon me?"

Obviously the guy had no humor. "You said your wife Kate raises horses, so what do you do if you don't do the housework on a small place?"

"It's actually almost 350 acres and being lush country I could make the investment and grow alfalfa for a tidy sum. But no, my specialty is building replacement homesteads and anything else people want building in this part of the county. I'm kept very busy and run anything from one to three gangs as demand flows and ebbs."

"Oh really?"

"Yes and Vic showed similar interest. That old dump the Hungers live in needs major surgery."

"You told Vic that?"

"We were discussing it when you, um, walked up."

Nina grinned. "You appear to be handy to have around." That turned Shaun's color.

She changed the subject. "Do you think Kate could find me a Palomino?"

"If there's one to be found she'd probably find it. They're not all that common around these parts and folk who have good ones tend to hold them."

"I want a big, strong one – the best."

"That would cost big money and you might have to go a long ways for it. Kate could search the Net for you and negotiate on your behalf."

"Could you ask her to do that for me – here's my card?"

"Ask her yourself; here comes Kate."

Nina looked up and noticed the only woman in street clothes. She was laden down with shopping bags, wearing a beautiful smile like the triumphant huntress returning home. Vic was cutting across at an angle, eyes focused on her butt and that was understandable – Kate was only a few years older than she was, Nina observed in delight. A neighbor around her own age; everything appeared falling into place.

An hour later Nina and Kate had broken away from the men who were talking football and they preferred staying out in the sun. Nina talked to Kate about Palominos. Kate pointed out the Palomino was a color, not a breed, which surprised Nina. She settled as first preference for a registered horse, golden in color with a flaxen main and tail. They'd buy quarter horse crosses as their working horses and would probably secure those from Kate. 

"I'd really like it at the end of next month, only five weeks away. That's when we take over our ranch. Bare horse only as Vic has his gear stored at the guest ranch where we both worked."

"So the horse is for Vic, not you?"

"Yes, I want to mark this special occasion of him becoming a real rancher even if he rides a flashy horse."

"Won't you require a horse?"

"Oh yes Kate. Please be my agent and find me a good one; she must be placid and feminine."

"That sounds easy. I'm bringing along several in that category at present. You haven't asked for much?"

"She must be capable of out-running the Palomino when really pushed."

Kate giggled and called Nina a sly one. "Let's have a Mae West."

"Okay, but I'm limiting myself."

"Oh, why's that?"

"Because I was a naughty girl last night."

Kate laughed and went off to fetch the cocktails as poolside service didn't begin until 4:00. She returned and handing Nina her drink said, "Please tell me all."

Nina sucked her bottom lip, sizing up Kate and then decided if she was trusting Kate to sell her two horses she ought to trust her with a little story. She checked that the men were still yarning on the other side of the pool.

"Let it rip," Kate urged.

Nina obliged, using no names but still managing to widen Kate's eyes. 

To be Continued. 



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 06



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who either mistook her for a hooker or an easy opportunity. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her widowed father, now dying. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina's SUV with no destination in mind. They work on a dude guest ranch and a year later help the proprietor rebuild his computer and video business. They leave the coast and head east into traditional cattle land to search for a run-down ranch to buy and build up. Nina reveals she was the daughter of an heiress and inherited her mother's wealth. Although pleased socially emerging Nina is wealthy, Vic decides it's best they don't overspend as he wishes to pay his way to end up being in true 50-50 partnership with Nina. They purchase a run-down privately owned ranch of 63,800 acres and their adventures continue while waiting to 'hand-over' day of the property. Vic is having sex on the side with Leigh Masters and he and Nina meet the Loves.

* * * 

A couple of days after first meeting the Loves, Nina received a call from Kate inviting her to lunch with Vic included Vic if he didn't mind being in the company of two chatterbox women; Shaun was away working. Nina laughed, saying that the word 'chatterboxes' would scare Vic away but actually he was occupied looking around for ranch suppliers and signing up with selected ones.

"I have something to show you," Kate said, a touch of excitement in her voice, leaving Nina mysterfied.

The ranch-house was typically a builder's home – the extensions covered in and not finished. 

"Shaun will finish the work if we ever go to sell or if he breaks a leg or I put him on rations."

"Oh, you poor girl," Nina chuckled, watching her new friend placing the flowers Nina had presented her into a vase. "Actually it looks a very comfortable home for a working couple" and that earned a thank you smile.

After coffee they walked arm-in-arm to the corral on the far side of the barn. 

"Well, what do you think?" Kate asked casually.

"Which one?"

Kate laughed and said the other two were geldings.

Nina studied the sorrel roan and felt her heart reach out to her. Perhaps the mare would look better after Kate had worked on her.

"Well?"

"Yes, thank you. I trust your pick. It doesn't matter if she's a bit of a slouch."

"Oh, just you wait. I see Nell..."

"Nell?"

"She's not registered, is working ranch-bred of parentage unknown and came to me nameless. Change Nell if you wish. Kate, I know horses and see her as a pocket rocket. Her head's still down but at least she's beginning to gain weight. In five week's time you'll be looking at a different horse."

"I'll take her. How much?"

"My wee gift to you. I'm picking you two will be regular clients. Unfortunately I can't give you my pick for Vic – the price tag comes high."

"Why?"

"Because the Palomino is registered and exceptionally classy."

"What, to breed from?"

"That's over to you guys; it will give you a fantastic new interest if you do and sell off the progeny as riding horses, not workhorses of course."

"So how much?"

"Quite a lot as I said but he looks beautiful; we'll take a look at his picture first."

"There's so much to learn – we're babes in the wood, really."

"But you both have had some experience; you told me Vic spent his first eighteen years on farms."

Nina agreed but said working on farms and one ranch was somewhat different to running the ranch. 

As they re-entered the house Kate said perhaps there was someone who could be encouraged out of retirement to become foreman-consultant. He'd probably do it for food, shelter and spending money.

"You have someone in mind?"

"My father, if you don't mind his constant talking. My mother Pearl nicknamed him Gabby before I was born and just loves not having him around her for longish intervals."

"Vic and I should meet him."

"Come to lunch Saturday – he spends his weekends with us, mainly to tell Shaun what to do; he acts as if he were Shaun's father."

"Well, why not? Thank you. I have the feeling you and I will become great friends."

Kate laughed and said she'd picked that the moment she learned Nina was coming to live close by.

For a moment Nina wondered how could Kate size her up so quickll. But then, "Of course, you know horses."

They both grinned as Kate brought the laptop out of 'sleep' mode and Nina found herself looking at Kingston Nobel Arc.

"What a name, what a horse," Nina breathed.

"Oh yes – the working name is King and the price he comes at is not chicken shit but Vic will be invited to lead local parades and whatever on him – there's nothing like owning one of the best looking horses in the territory if you're that way inclined."

"So, how much.

"Sixty thousand delivered; he's almost three, has tested perfectly and is worth it Nina."

"Wow, I have money but sixty grand on a horse seems rather extravagant."

"To put it in perspective, if you want a top sire as foundation for your ultimate herd, that could set you back $200,000 and that's on a year's lease."

"Jumping hot cats!"

Kate laughed and cocked her head. "Present King to him as a wedding gift."

"Wedding gift?" Nina faltered.

Kate said Nina would find it difficult to do better that marry Vic. "You're young and he's entering his prime and you're about to lock yourselves into big business – the timing is perfect."

"But he hasn't asked me to marry him."

"So? Then you ask him."

"But the age difference?"

Kate grinned and said Vic didn't look the worrying type.

"But what about me?" 

Kate told her. "When he becomes too old then you have the choice of moving on without him. But chances are you'll be attached to him like an old saddle pleased that you didn't marry a young buck because all they think about is sex."

"But that's all Vic seems to think about."

"Shaun too – aren't we lucky; sex and experience in the one package."

They fell about laughing.

Lunch was served outdoors under shade. 

Kate sighed. "I've been thinking about having an affair."

"Oh really?" 

"A nice safe reply. I thought I would mention it since I know you're not actually prudish after telling me about the experience you had the other evening."

"Well, I wasn't recommending it."

Kate said she realized that. "I have this client who I notice flicks occasional appreciative glances at my body. It's worked me up a few notches and now I'm thinking lust is beginning to raze my mind."

"Well if you do break out insist on a condom and remember the possible consequences could go all the way to total marriage disintegration."

"Yes, I've thought that through. As you can gather, I married rather early so had few partners. This guy is beginning to attract me seriously – just for a fling of course, perhaps only the once. Who supplies the condom – me or him?"

"Who's him?"

"You won't know him. He runs a ranch to the north – Dean Masters."

Nina choked and Kate hurried to her with a glass of water.

"Oh dear, Nina said," eyes watering. "Thanks, now where were we – oh yes, don't count on the guy having condoms so carry your own as backup; you know what guys are like."

They grinned and raised their glasses in an unspoken toast before drinking, their dancing eyes locked.

After lunch they saddled up, Kate giving Nina a solid bay, noting how Nina handled it and took her seat. "You've had a good teacher."

"A very patient one, Vic."

"So he's taught you other things beside?"

"Besides what?" and only then did Nina become aware a sneaky trap had sprung. She giggled and urged her horse into a gallop. She veered to skirt an outcrop and watched Kate who was riding so smoothly wave and bend forward. Nina kicked the bay; the race was on. 

She came to the rounded end of the outcrop to Kate waiting nonchalantly. 

"You're fast," Nina acknowledged.

"I start everyone on my left so they always veer left at the outcrop. My way is the shorter route but I must say you cracked the pace on very well. You'll become a very good horsewoman."

"Become, aren't I okay already?"

"You're an excellent rider but I bet you can't cut and rope and do the others things one needs to do working as a cowgirl alongside her husband."

"Partner."

"Oops, sorry, partner. Come and stay with me a couple of days and bring Vic. While I'm teaching you early morning and evening, he can be finishing our dinning room extension for me; we both could pitch in with him some of the time. You could have your wedding here; would you like that?"

"Kate, stop it. You're making me nervous."

"But you two will stay?"

"Yes, oh yes." 

"Well bunk down for this weekend and stay for a couple of working days as well. That will give you time to get to know daddy. let Nell become familiar with you and help me get my house completed as with you here Shaun will stick around."

"Sounds great. We're heading back west on Wednesday to stay with our ex bosses on the guest ranch where we worked – Joe and Hannah Black."

"Christ, Joe Black; you should have had Joe teaching you cuttingm roping and group penning."

"You know Joe?" Nina asked needlessly.

"He comes from these parts. When I was a kid he was a hero and is in our county hall of fame for winning national titles."

"Joe was that good?" Nina sighed and added: "Sadly he's quite crippled now."

"Many of them end up that way darling, what with broken legs, shot hips and busted backs."

"Joe, a real cowboy."

"Indeed, and get him to explain range riding theory in detail while you are staying with him Nina because he'll forgotten more about it than I'll ever know and yet I fancy I know it all."

"Why doesn't Joe talk about his great past?"

"Because of Hannah. She came here from somewhere and started high school with mom. She sometimes looked after me when I was young. I remember her well. She would have worked the ranch while Joe's bones were mending or ripped muscles re-attached during healing. Don't think it was only Joe who had the hard life. The day he retired she should have told him no more rodeo talk in her house ever again."

"So I best lure Joe well away from her to talk?"

"Smart thinking, Nina."

Nina went out and helped with the chores. Towards the end Kate kept looking into the distance in one direction.

"There he is," she said happily, pointing to the spike of dust trailing behind Shaun's truck. "He likes to walk in with a beer and a sandwich on the table and me standing beside his chair waiting to be kissed."

"How enchanting."

"Don't joke – it really is rewarding after being here all day without company unless I'm out riding out with temporary help to do extensive fencing or working on horses with assistance."

"I rarely joke about relationships. In your position I see it as enchanting."

Kate looked kindly at Nina: "Stand beside me and get kissed if you want."

Shaun came in hot and skicky, "Well, what a surprise – extra beauty to this kitchen," Shaun grinned, tossing his grimy Stetson on to the sofa and kissing both women. Nina noticed Kate scored a much longer kiss.

"I spotted Nell walking out to rejoin the herd. Why was she in?"

Kate colored and asked Nina if she wanted coffee. Shaun pressed: "Well?"

"I'm giving Nell to Nina in the expectation she and Vic will become big clients of mine."

"But you selected her for your replacement top horse."

Nina's face flamed: "Shut up Shaun."

"Oh no, I can't take your horse."

Kate transformed from being feminine to tough rancher. "Nell's not my horse, never was. She may have been but I've taken a different course with her now. Will you two please accept that?"

Nina rushed into Kate's arms looking upset. 

"Oh Christ, I'm sorry," Shaun said. "You're your own boss Kate."

"Thank you darling, and please watch your language in my house – my unfinished house."

"My apologies."

"Thank you. Now tell him about Joe Black, Nina."

Nina jumped at the opportunity to ease the tension. Shaun listened, seated and sipping his beer, not taking his gaze from her face.

When she finished Shaun flicked blew his nose. "That guy was a legend around to us kids. Dad sold him some of his best horses. Joe had promise to sharpen up my riding but before he could do that he took a very bad fall and retired; he and Mrs Black moved out close to the coast. I'm happy to know that guy is still mobile."

Nina smiled. "Well, you'll be able to meet him in a little over a month – they'll want to inspect what we've purchased."

"Hah," snorted Shaun. "He'll be more than interested – Joe was lead horse wrangler when that Hunger Ranch was four times the size it is now in the days when cowboys on the open range were king."

Nina almost sank through the floorboards when Kate whispered: "Perhaps you could have Joe Black give you away?" 

NinA glanced nervously at Shaun; fortunately he was busy swatting at a fly and appeared not to have heard. Nina gave Kate the fingers and Kate grinned, obviously back to better mood again.

* * *

Vic had a great time calling into ranch supply depots meeting owners, managers and dispatchers to learn what range of stock they carried, how they operated, delivery of big orders and opening account at the businesses which impressed him. He test drove a couple of ATVs (all terrain four-wheeler bikes) for general ranch work with the plan of increasing the number when the guest facilities were operating. 

In mid afternoon he saw an attractive sight on the main street – Leigh Masters, taller, better dressed and more attractive than the half dozen women she was with, chatting outside a restaurant. She spotted him and waved so he waved back, feeling safe with the wide street between them. But glancing back he saw her excuse herself from her group and head towards him, so he waited.

"Hello handsome," she called softly as he raised his white dress Stetson to her. She kissed his cheek filling his nostrils with perfume; he stepped back quickly when noticing her companions across the street looking at them curiously.

"Slumming in town instead of riding the range?"

"Walking the streets begging for money to pay the fortune in commission a certain real estate company is charging us."

"Oh, my poor vagabond. Allow me to donate."

"You just go back to your girlfriends. You are so wicked"

"Forget them, that's part of the luncheon club. I've been missing you, especially a certain part of you."

Vic steered away from that. "Did you father's fishing trip go well?"

"Very well."

"Was he irritated I bypassed him and went to you?"

"Oh no, he said he expected you'd do that as an alternative to slugging him one. He accepts he was grumpier than usual that day."

"He said that?"

"I just said he did, didn't I?"

"Yes, of course. I didn't mean to sound if I doubted you. The scoundrel was playing with us."

"Yes, because he didn't think you two had the money. Old and experienced he may be but he's not always right, you know."

"Agreed. I must push on, I'm thinking about buying a one-tonner."

"Oh, take the next turn right and at the next street crossing you'll see a dealership. Ask for Art, he's my brother. Tell him I said he'll give you a good deal on a pick-up and suggest he turns his one over to you. He'll offer it at a great price if he likes the look of you – it's a demo vehicle and he's due to replace it according to what I heard him tell Dean the other day."

"Gee Leigh; you really are a great person to know. Thank you."

"Well, it's the least I can do. As you know I'd like you and Nina to become good friends of Dean and me and our two kids."

"In that case we better stop messing around; friends tend to get caught out."

"Oh huge big sigh and expletive and I weep and tell the handsome hero he's right. You are right I must admit."

Vic looked a little sad. "Except very occasionally and under special circumstances."

Leigh brightened and said she had no idea what Vic was talking about but she'd agree, absolutely. She kissed him goodbye saying, "Go buy your truckie thing."

* * *

Nina arrived back at the suite tired but exhilarated. She found Vic at the pool swimming and watched his power and quite good style. He seemed good at everything he put his hand to, including her; she pressed her thighs together in anticipation. He stood after finishing that length, spotted her and smiled. She went to him to be kissed.

"I had a great time with Kate. She runs all horses and will be giving me a scruffy mare called Nell."

"What's wrong with it?"

"Nothing, although she's rundown from being worked too hard and then being neglected. Like all women she'll bloom in the hands of someone with loving care."

"Then Kate must already be a friend to give you a horse; I though I was your only friend?"

"Oh darling, don't be jealous. I'm not jealous that you have a lady friend."

"Who?" Vic asked indignantly.

"Leigh Masters."

The feeling of being hit by a brick warned Vic not to be evasive.

"Oh yeah, quite right," he smiled and yawned.

Nina had been watching him intently for the reply. When it came she sensed it suggested there was nothing to be alarmed about.

Nina hauled Vic by his upheld hand from the pool and he fished out his wallet, watch, keys and sunglasses from under his towel and, putting on his robe without drying said, "Come with me." They walked to the edge of the roof with its high netting fence and he pointed to a vehicle. "Go take that white pick-up for a test drive. It's done 1875 miles as a demonstration vehicle and we've bought it for $4500 under list price."

"Wow – a good buy. But why didn't you ask them to store it until we move to the ranch?"

"Because when I go out you are left without a vehicle but also when we go to the Black's next Wednesday we could pick up useful gear along the way if we see foreclosure sales and the like. We'll get more on to that baby than into the SUV unless we take some seats out." 

"Well I'll go down and look at it while you change quickly and fetch something to drink and a rug."

"Why a rug?"

"Because I feel like being seduced on a riverbank; any more questions?"

"No, wine, glasses and rug coming up, ma'am – oh, and a towel."

Well, you've been a good boy today, Nina thought, aware that he'd ejaculated powerfully. It was all over her front which meant her clothes as they'd done it half dressed because people walked through the tree-lined riverbank. God, it's even in my hair, she sighed, toweling that. Well, it was her fault urging him to pull out and spray her. What had she been thinking about – that he'd only plop a load on to her bare belly? Well, at least she'd given him the chance to feel manly; he also knew he liked being given that opportunity - the bull.

Yes, the man was a bull. She was dimly aware other women might receive attention from him, Leigh Masters almost certainly. She pushed such thoughts deep because she didn't want to know about it or even think who they were. Only Hannah Black would have been safe from him. Or would she? Nina gurgled in shock brought on by that rogue thought. How could she think that of Hannah? 

God, weren't thoughts so cutting at times? No way but no way did she want to think about who Vic fucked at it would leave all their female friends and acquaintances under suspicion. Leigh Masters – oh the sexy, beautiful Leigh Masters and morhter had received attention of the rutting kind from Vic – she was sure of that; absolutely. She had no proof of course; they were as cunning as she'd been not even been presented with the smell of Leigh's distinctive perfume on Vic's shirts that she took to be laundered.




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 06



Nina sighed, noting that Vic was dozing. Well, what did she really need think about it? Her mind challenged her asking if she wanted the truth so she made no attempt to block that challenging line of thought. You're acting in your best interest girl. In all your life you haven't met a man who's treated you so well and made you love him so much despite his treacherous streak. 

Love? 

Is it really love? She rolled slightly in despair not knowing how to answer and then deciding they'd advanced a few steps beyond simply being partners with a healthy inclination to share in sex. Well, in her book that was love and even more so when she was prepared to be tolerant of him messing around with other women, or fucking other women as he would call it. Some women would question her mental capacity to be thinking like that – she was sure they would. A few would urge her to flee from him. Well, perhaps that was good advice. She could abort the sale, face the music and pay the financial penalties and then head in the opposite direction her financially busted Vic proposed taking. 

Her Vic? Yes, quite. Any critics would do well to think about that: if she thought possessively about Vic and allowed him to access her body, what was that: casual friendship? Oh yeah, what about the possessiveness? She expressed that emotion these days because she now loved him, and just because he lifted up the skirts of other women that didn't mean he didn't love her. Take the purchase of the ranch – she was putting up a slice of her money whereas he was on the way to investing his last cent apart from spending money. He had courage and conviction and in his own way probably love her. Well she loved him and felt the need to increase her possessiveness.

Nina's heart leaped. Kate – Kate and Shaun; they don't have children but is that their wish? Oh that would be ideal if she and Kate became pregnant at the same time. Nina's mind went onto a higher plane and romantic images began replacing the uglier side of realism. She briefly thought of loaning Vic to impregnate Kate if Shaun was firing blanks – either via test tubes or going on holiday to the coast or lakes with Kate for a few days. That thought faded and she saw the vision of Vic on his Palomino riding ahead of a little girl and her younger brother on their ponies and Vic was urging his daughter to stay back with her brother, knowing she was as fearless as Kate and could ride like the wind. Then she was in another scene and there was her other great friend Leigh – she now had three dear children; was the new one Vic's or her husband's. Twice a month Leigh and Vic disappeared for a night. What a coincidence it always was the same night. No-one ever said anything but everyone knew; everyone! But guess who had Vic for those other nights of the month1 God, how could she cope with him by herself. Vic was a bull. 

Nina's mind slipped into another scene: a bull was charging her. She jolted from dozing. Her head was almost touching Vic's. "Vic, let's get married."

Vic's breathing stopped but he didn't even say 'Huh'.

"Vic, let's get married."

His breathing resumed and he said "Huh?" but turning to her said what she wanted to hear: "Okay, when?"and he yawned.

She turned, smothering his face with kisses and yapping like a lap dog, consumed in excitement. She was aware she should have held back and extracted a proper speech from him: in years to come their fiery daughter would berate her, screaming, 'You allowed him to get away saying Okay, when? Oh mother!' and Nina would grin and say that was not quite right, it went, Okay, when – then a big yawn.

"The Friday before we take possession. I want to be married in Kate's sitting room."

"Kate's sitting room?" he said, sounding confused. "Don't all women want to be married in white in a church ringing with hallelujahs?"

"Not this woman. I will be married dressed as a cowgirl. You wear what you want."

"But you're not a cowgirl. All you can do is ride a horse."

"What this space buster, the woman you're fucking so regularly is becoming a cowgirl."

"You language is becoming quite common."

"Oh yeah, I wonder where the wellhead of that degrading influence lies."

Vic was sounding confused again. "What's got into you?"

"I'm getting married, that's what is embracing me. Oh, I've just thought this: you're not getting my ass on my birthday. Sorry, you'll have to go elsewhere."

"Why, what are you talking about?"

"Our stroppy young daughter would take to you with an axe if she found out you ass-fuck me."

"Nina, are you on dope?"

"No, I would have fucked you senseless had I been on that kind of high."

"You're a worry Nina. Let's go. I'm taking you out to dinner – you choose."

"Thanks partner, now we're getting married you're no longer a worry to me."

"It's my third wedding darling, remember?"

"Upon learning that our stroppy daughter will brand you a rutter of women."

Lifting up Nina looked down on the hugely embarrassed face of her man, lover and husband-to-be. "You'll be able to keep her under control by turning her into daddy's girl. To such girls daddy is beyond reproach forever. I won't mind because I'll have Nigel. Our timid Nigel ultimately will grow out of that awkward state imposed on him by the unstoppable combination of daddy and daddy's girl."

"Nigel?" what kind of name is that?"

"My kind of name; you name our daughter."

"But I don't know any girls' names."

"Oh, the typical male brain collapse. You'll think of something but call her Leigh and I'll scratch your eyes out."

"Why?" He sounded even more confused.

"One Leigh is enough around these parts. That's all I have to say. Now kindly kiss your bride-to-be soundly – a loving kiss."

She then told Vic they were staying a long weekend with the Loves to meet Kate's father and for Vic to work on finishing the house - with him flinging a hammer Kate figured Shaun would be shamed into joining the building crew. Her father would assume the role of foreman.

"This Kate, I'm not sure I like the influence she's having on you."

"Oh, really? You'll change your mind when you set eyes on King."

"King - what king?"

"Oh, never mind for the moment."

"Nina - was it Kate who suggested we get married?"

"Kate - Kate who?"

"Oh fuck, this has become too much for me. I'm going for a walk."

"Don't trip over Leight Masters."

"What?"

"I didn't say a word; enjoy your walk darling."

* * *

Kate and Shaun would be the first two people to be told, Vic thought, although Nina was bound to tell the breakfast waitress at the hotel whom she's befriended. Walking back to the hotel to rest with Nina before going out to their celebatory dinner, Vic came across Leigh who hugged and kissed him quickly more or less like a normal greeting between friends on a busy sidewalk. He blurted out the fact that a wedding was coming up. 

Leigh's eyes shone and she asked him what he wanted for a wedding present. Not unexpectedly Vic's mind went blank. 

"I'll think of something – you're always giving me something," she giggled.

Vic have been surprised how well he felt about this marriage before realizing it had been natural progression, unlike his previous two ill considered ventures. That pleased him and was aware that these days he was looking at Nina in admiration and knew she'd become aware of that – it sparked her eyes. He worried about what to give Nina for a wedding present.

The next day he called Leigh who astonished with her suggestion. That resulted in Vic going out to the Hunger Ranch with their permission with Leigh, an architect and an engineer.

The four of them stood in a tight group looking at flat land that within 400 yards began rising sharply into high country.

"I favor the site for the new homestead away from this present site," Vic said. 

Leigh looked across to a knoll a couple of hundred feet above them. "What about up there?"

The architect said it would be a magnificent site provided it met engineering standards. The engineer said site access costs would be high as a long track would be required which would involve cutting through rock.

"That's okay, your new clients are not short of money," Leigh smiled.

The architect pulled a sketch plan from a folder he was carrying. "Perhaps something like this. It's a plan been awaiting a client with money."

"Oh my," Leigh breathed. Vic was impressed and said it suited him fine.

"Oh no, the woman of the house must have her say," the architect said.

"Right – we'll leave finalizations till after the wedding," Vic responded with authority and decisiveness. 

He continued: "Thomas, I want the concept of site development fine-tuned and engineering plans plus environmental report rushed though approvals – I'm prepared to pay a penalty payment to authorities to make that happen. That access track and the building pad must be formed before the 30th of next month – so there are five weeks to go. Can do?"

"Normally I'd say no, but if Leigh can do the people pushing for me I'd say we'd at least have something in the way of ground works started by the wedding."

"Great. Lance can you give me a couple of hours tomorrow morning on that plan? I know the way Nina thinks and have clear knowledge of some of her preferences. The winds will be strong up there so we'll need a nook offering some protection if we want to eat outside on windy days. When it's still, she'll want the whole front of the house to open up, fireplaces in lounge, living room and master bedroom – old Western style. That means outside can look modern, but inside must appear traditional although not to the extent of log walls and imitation candles on suspended wagon wheels. I'd describe it as modern cowboy."

"Modern cowboy," Lance noted. "Modern Western is my interpretation and this is what this sketch is – okay?"

"Sounds good, Lance. I want to present Nina the draft plans and specification at our Wedding Breakfast but with a note from you saying she's free to change anything without requiring my consent as I'll not be at those meetings because a free hand is a free hand."

"Oh, aren't you sweet," chuckled Leigh and everyone laughed.

"I'd really appreciate you rooting for us to push rapid approvals through Leigh. By the way, I've suggested to Nina she invite you to be our matron of honor."

Leigh curtsied and asked demurely would there be any reason why Nina wouldn't ask her. Vic answered with a sly grin and the engineer and architect looked at each other, eyebrows raised.

"Guys, I want this kept tight-lipped for the moment," Vic said, pressing on. "Do your best on this project and you're on our team. Nina is coming up with ten million to begin development on this site of an adult only guest rancher complex around an artificial lake. We'd need advice on whether that's the way to go or to raze everything and to start afresh. At present that scheme is on hold until we get a replacement house sorted. I've decided to expedite development so will be back to you on this with Nina soon after the wedding. Leigh you'll get some crumbs – we'll want your company to become our master booking agent and develop a marketing strategy and create our website, links and manage it."

"Well, well. Haven't you woken up Vic. Holiday over, huh?"

"That's it, Leigh. At long last Nina and I have something to get our teeth into. That's all from me."

"I'm late for an appointment so must fly," Leigh said, kissing her two friends but taking longer to kiss Vic.

"Come back to the office for coffee you guys," invited Thomas.

An hour later Nina walking by on the other side of the street saw Vic shaking hands with two men outside the offices of engineers specializing in civil engineering including site development. Well, she thought, at least he's consorting with men rather than a woman. He must want our dams checked.

Vic was in the shade by the pool reading the morning newspaper waiting for Nina's return to prepare to leave for the Love's place for dinner when Leigh phoned.

"Hi, I'm back at the hotel waiting for Nina," he said, replying to her greeting.

Leigh ignored that. "I'm not fucking you to extract business favors."

"It never entered my head," Vic replied truthfully. "But from me you get what you deserve; I was repaying kindness with kindness."

"Glad to hear that. Look, this doesn't worry me too much but Thomas and Lance are friends of Dean's."

"Dean, is that his name? When you are with me I only ever hear you call Dean, quote, my husband, unquote."

"Stop clowning around. Thomas and Lance may have sensed something between us – you and I weren't actually on strict Sunday school behavior."

"I bet you were no saint, even as far back as Sunday school."

"Vic!"

"Sorry, you tend to bring out of the worst and best in me. Don't worry about Thomas and Lance – they are professional men who know all about client confidentiality. They also know that if they were responsible for screwing up anything between you and me and Nina they could well kiss goodbye some very fat fees."

"Well, I trust you are right. You know those people who say women are deceptive – they really are innocents when it comes to you."

"You're lavish with your compliments today."

Leigh giggled. My husband is away the first couple of days next week. Do you fancy anything?"

"Yes, Nina is having advanced riding lessons with Kate on Monday and Tuesday and we set off on Wednesday for a few days. Could we meet at your place for lunch Monday; it's my birthday? There's something I promised myself for my birthday."

"Oh great, I'll buy you a present."

"Okay, a soft liner for the floor of my new pick-up. Nina will assume I brought that – she could become suspicious if she found a personal gift she'd not bought me."

"God, you are a master of deceit, Vic. Yuk, a floor liner, how sexy."

"Rub some of your juices on it; that's sexy."

* * *

Dinner at the Love's ranch that Friday night was memorable for both couples. When Vic produced two bottles of French champagne Shaun and Kate assumed their guests were simply being socially very generous. That is until the glasses were filled.

"Cheers," Shaun said, preparing to take a gulp.

"Er, please toast the bride and bridegroom-to-be," Vic said, presenting a face that was a good imitation of an over-ripe tomato.

"What!" Kate shrieked.

Nina nodded. Kate put down her glass and went to her, the men rolling their eyes.

*

To be Continued...



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 07



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who either mistook her for a hooker or an easy opportunity. The previous night Nina was thrown out of home by her mentally unbalanced and recently widowed father. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she’s sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her father. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina’s SUV with no destination in mind. They work on a dude guest ranch and a year later help the proprietor rebuild his computer and video business. After three months they head east into real cattle land and look for a run-down ranch to buy to build it up. Nina reveals she’s the daughter of an heiress and inherited her mother’s wealth. Although pleased she is wealthy Vic decides it’s best they don’t overspend as he wishes to pay his way to end up being in 50-50 partnership with Nina. They purchase a run-down privately owned ranch of 63,800 acres and their adventures continue while waiting to ‘hand-over’ day of the property.


*  *  * 


Vic and Vic Nina turned into the Levett’s horse ranch in the new pick-up. Vic preferred it over the SUV and Nina didn’t mind – a vehicle being a vehicle to her although she seemed to prefer the intimacy of the pick-up despite its aggressive-looking exterior. 

Vic’s preference wasn’t based on the look of the vehicle, its V8 power for pulling a load or its versatility. No, it gave him the feeling of being a rancher although he knew he wasn’t one – not yet. He accepted he had some ways to go for that hat to fit, so to speak.

Nina had stopped saying, “You look so happy driving this vehicle” but he guessed she still thought it as whenever they started off in it he’d be aware of her looking at him, smiling softly. God she was a great kid, he thought; fancy liking him.

He had this thinking time because Nina was dozing. Why she was tired was anyone’s guess – his guess was mental fatigue: thinking about the wedding and life ever-after. Oh, and shopping. He found shopping a bore rather than fatiguing. Well my girl, once out on the ranch you’ll have to toughen up or hide indoors.

Vic was glad they would be spending the weekend with the Levett's as he wanted to build a trusting relationship with Shaun and to have Shaun to supervise all building at the ranch which Nina was insisted be called Haig Ranch. That was fine with him because when they walked on to the property as new owners she would be Mrs Haig the 3rd, although he’d be stupid to mention that tag; she and everyone else would regard her as Mrs Haig the lst – and fair enough.

Checking around, Vic had found Shaun had an excellent reputation and he’d called on Shaun on a job when spotting Shaun’s building sign at the entrance to the property. Shaun showed him around and was all energy and information and related well with everyone including the owners making an inspection. The Twill’s took a keen interest in Vic as he was a newcomer to the district.

“I’ve heard your wife is young and very beautiful.”

“She is both of those things but we don’t marry till another three weeks, ma’am.”

“Oh please – Trinity.”

“And I’m Alan.”

“Everyone knows you as Vic,” she said.

“Everyone, Trinity?”

“Well, the ladies I take coffee or lunch with in town,” Trinity said. “You are rather striking and are seen walking around town a great deal – staying at the hotel I believe. But there is talk about you – appreciative talk I might add – because you are a rare man.”

“Rare man ma’am, I mean Trinity?”

“You accompany your partner when she shops for lingerie.”

“Doesn’t every man do that?” Vic asked but his straight face was too obvious and everyone within earshot burst into laughter.

Chatting away with Alan Twill over coffee reminded Vic he lacked depth of knowledge about cattle ranching and if the truth be known what he knew about horses wouldn’t fill much beyond the first page of a notebook.

“Rearing young cattle for on-sale like the rest of us?”

“Yes, that rather appealed to me?”

Alan looked at Vic and laughed, not sure if Vic understood. “You don’t have much choice – we have great land for growing bone here but the beef is put on elsewhere. You were aware of that, where you?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Is that a yes or a no?” Alan asked closely.

Shaun intervened. “Vic grew up on small farms, one place almost a ranch according to what Kate told me. He’s just spent a year working for Joe Black.”

Alan became really interested. “Not…”

“One and the same – his ranch is over by the coast for the easy life.”

Alan spun back to Vic. “You know he’s the greatest guy to have ridden on this land around here in modern times?” 

“I do now; Kate filled us in. But the truth is he never mentioned being a rodeo hero – in fact he never mentioned rodeo.”

“Good God, has he gone mental?”

“Ease back, Alan,” Trinity said, the fifty-something wearing a light grin on her leathery face. “That will be Hannah riding him short rein.”

“I’ll be damned,” Alan said, scratching his head under the brim of his black Stetson. “That guy’s a legend around here to folks like us – unfortunately now a forgotten legend.”

Trinity walked with Vic to his vehicle. “Look, please arrange for me to meet your partner. Everyone is talking about you two, fact and fiction. First Mr Brody lets it known you people were attempting to buy the Hunger’s place for a distressed price but having no money and then his daughter Leigh absolutely refutes that saying you’ve signed up, the money is there and you’re planning to spend big money on development. Then the story comes out that your partner is an heiress and you two will marry when her divorce comes through. All this could harm reputations so I need to sort it out.

“Those luncheons in town appear very influential.”

“You know about our luncheons?”

“Heard about them and have seen women on the sidewalk after attending them. I figured not all the talk would be about the weather, children and latest dress designs.”

“I’m going to like you Vic, I can see that. You’re a man who actually has something between his ears. I’m president of the Ladies Town Club which holds those gatherings you are alluding to. Although I’m only fifty-six I’m considered the matriarch by the younger women because I went to university and headed the school here before Alan arrived on my doorstep and wouldn’t leave until I accepted his proposal. He stayed three nights before I caved in, losing my puritan reputation in the process. I’ll have great pleasure inducting your partner into the club.”

“Her name is Nina.”

“I know that Vic; I’ll call her that after I’ve been introduced to her.”

They shook hands and Vic was stepping into the cab when she called softly, “Oh Vic?”

“Yes Trinity.”

“Be very careful. There’s a rumor about you and a certain real estate lady.”

Vic’s mouth dropped, not that mattered as he had no reply to that comment.

He looked up to give little more than a weak grin – hopefully with an innocent edge – to Trinity but she was already walking away. He sat in the cab of the vehicle, mopping his forehead. Finally he smiled – he was safe providing they were never caught actually going at it and he was save from Nina’s wrath because she suspected. That could change if she caught them at it. Best that Nina kept away from that stupid women’s club.

*  *  *

Nina had awoken from her nap beside Vic when he shook her, having great confidence in his driving, and as they arrived was delighted to see Kate and Shaun on the porch waiting for them. Of course, they would have spotted the dust plume of the incoming vehicle.

She jumped out and the two women rushed each other, the two men grinning.

Shaun circled the vehicle and gave his opinion: “Nice wheels, makes you look like a rancher.”

“Which I’m not.”

“Give it time. Outward appearances fool most people,” Shaun said, digging in under the tray cover to pull out a grip. “You guys travel light.”

Vic sighed: “Nina’s stuff is all on the other side.”

Shaun looked at the uncovered bags and packs. “We’ll be all night carrying this lot in. I think we should just toss a match on to it and go onto the porch for a beer.”

“Leave it,” Kate said brushing Shaun aside. “I shall attend to my guest’s necessities. She won’t have brought a single thing she didn’t require.”

“A toothbrush, hairbrush, lipstick and a couple of pairs of knickers are all that’s required for a few night’s stay,” Vic alleged, earning two pink tongues poked in his directions from Kate and Nina plus  a violent thrust of fingers airwards from Kate.

“Er, beer on the back porch I reckon Vic. We are edging into deep shit being here.”

Ninety minutes later came the call from upstairs: “Shaun, are you two washed up?”

“Come on,” Shaun said, kicking aside beer bottles as he stood up. “That’s Kate fully revved up which is something not to be ignored.”

With washed hands and faces, clothes unchanged but hair done, the two men waited for twenty minutes before two visions floated down the stairs.

Shawn looked beyond Nina to the lady in a satin dress, her scruffy fair hair all clean and tidy, piled on top of her head with sexy little bits dangling over her temples.

“God Kate,” he choked.

“Down boy, Kate giggled, “Please be seated; Nina tells me she has an announcement to make and I think I can guess.”

Nina nodded to Vic. He went to the refrigerated box plugged into the tray of the pick-up and returned with two bottles of champagne.

When they had clinked glasses Nina said Kate had offered their front room for the wedding.

“Guys, may we take up that offer and be married here the last Friday of next month.”

“Yes,” Kate screamed and Shaun beamed. 

“Good one guys,” he said, emptying his glass.

“Sip it – you sip champagne,” Kate said crossly.

“Just because someone’s dolled you up and modified your wedding dress it doesn’t mean you have to take on airs and graces.”

“Oh darling, sorry. Fill your glass up and SIP.”

They chatted excitedly and Kate told their guests they could invite as many people as they liked, not that they knew many.

Nina thanked Kate and then said, “I appointed someone to give me away this morning, I called Joe Black and he said it would be an honor.”

Kate looked at her and said, “Oh Christ.”

“What’s wrong, what have I done wrong – you know who Joe Black is?”

“A legend!” Kate yelled.

“Yes, well you can’t help being what you are,” Nina said defensively.

“The wedding will have to be switched to the Dome,” Kate said. “Most of the county will want to attend.”

“No!” Kate said firmly. “I accepted your beautiful invitation to be married in your front room Kate, and that’s what I want. Please don’t make me cry.”

“Oh baby, I wouldn’t do that,” Kate said, going around the table to comfort her. “You’ll have the little quiet wedding here, but that’s all I can promise as the town will want to see the bride that triggered Joe Black’s homecoming. We’ll go to town for the wedding breakfast. Please excuse me.”

Kate returned smiling triumphantly. “It’s all resolved. The Ladies Town Club will arrange the wedding breakfast to be preceded by the Parade – like all towns, our town loves a parade.

“But I was told Joe Black doesn’t come from here,” Nina said.

“Phooey, a minor detail,” Kate said dismissively. “He worked on the Hunger Ranch when he won his first national title. Everyone knows that.”

“But I was told recently he’s a forgotten legend,” Vic added.

“Legends are never forgotten,” Kate said, eyeing him coldly.

Nina asked what was the Ladies Town Club.

Vic jumped in. “You won’t be interested.”

“She will be extremely interested,” Kate snapped. “You mean men are all the same. I’m just off the phone talking to Trinity Twill who…”

“Who’s Trinity Twill?” Nina asked.

“You won’t want to know,” Vic said in a touch of desperation.

“Shut up Vic, you don’t know her.”

Shaun said yes he did, he met her the other day.

Kate asked “Where?” in a very disbelieving voice.

“At the Twill’s new ranch house. They were on an inspection and Vic called in for…um…”

“To take a look at the project,” Vic said smoothly.

“Why would you be interested in a new ranch house?” Nina asked.

“I wasn’t,” Vic protested. “A beer – I saw the builder’s sign; it was hot so I called in to have a beer with Shaun.”

“But Shaun doesn’t allow alcohol to be consumed onsite during working hours.”

“Coffee,” Shaun said.

“Yes, coffee,” Vic said with relief. “This seems like an interrogation. Call Trinity and asked her to confirm that I had coffee with her and Alan.”

“Alan – you know her husband?” Kate asked, looking puzzled.

“Yes, but I only had just met them after seeing Shaun’s sign and turning in to say hello. You want us guys to be friendly, don’t you?”

“Hell yes,” Kate sighed. “I really don’t know why you guys are making such a big deal about having coffee.”

Shaun and Vic looked at each other half-bewildered and sighed.

“You asked me who Trinity is Nina,” said Kate, picking up the conversation thread. “She came into the area to take charge of the school in town and Alan wooed her. They now live on Skyline Ranch which he inherited from his father which is twenty miles north-east of your ranch. We younger women dubbed her the matriarch because she’s a little bossy and seems to know everyone and everything. She heads our club that most ranch wives belong to give them a focal point when they visit the town. I have particular affinity for her because although she’s old enough to be my mother she’s the only woman in these parts who comes close to out-riding me.”

“She must be quite a lady?”

“She is Nina and it was she who more than twenty years ago nominated Joe Black to be honored in the County Hall of Fame, not that there was any resistance to Joe achieving such status as she’d just won his second national title.”

“I’d like to meet her.”

“Will tomorrow do? I’ve invited Trinity and Alan for lunch.”

At that disclosure, through Vic’s mind ran the image of a hangman carrying a rope with Vic’s name on it. 


Just after 11:00 next morning Vic went to the bedroom window and looked out. He’d heard bottles clinking and saw a man with a limp walk away the half dozen or so bottles and dump them in a barrel.

“It’s my father, cleaning up after you two men,” Kate said, entering the room. “God, my head.”

Vic turned around to see his hostess, most of her hair still piled on her head but wearing only panties.

He dived both hands over his genitals but too late.

“Ah, built like a pony I see?”

“Horse?”

“No pony,” she giggled.

Nina stirred. “Good gracious Vic, why are you exposing yourself to our hostess? Put on your pants – Kate you jump in here with me. Vic, we will soon meet Kate’s father. She thinks he could be persuaded to be ranch boss for us until our wheels are well-oiled.”

“But I’m ranch boss?”

“Nominally, yes. But you have gaps.”

“That’s not all he has,” Kate said, sending them both into giggles.

Vic turned his back to dress. “Why would he want to work for u?”

“Because he has a soft heart and is a sucker for a pretty face. Most of the women around here look like me – average or less.”

“I think you are pretty good for a skinny woman – last night you looked great.”

“Oh thank you Vic. Kate may I have a piece of him?”

“We’ll see, in fact that’s something I want to talk to you about. But first Vic you be on your best behavior with Mr Clayton and don’t pretend to know what you don’t know.”

“For goodness sake don’t call him Mr Clayton,” Kate urged. “Start off with Ryan and switch to Gabby once you feel he’s taken a liking to you, though don’t expect him to rush into that with you Vic; you take some getting to know. Perhaps if you show him what you’ve got he’ll have greater respect for you.”

“Kate!”

“What Nina?”

“Oh nothing except you talk like a man at times.”

“Oh sorry, mummy. I’ll roll over and you may smack my butt.”

“I think you best go Vic,” Nina giggled. “Kate is breaking loose; she’s turning into a lesbian.”

“Yikes!” yelled Kate, jumping out of bed. “I’m out of here.”

Nina suggested Vic go down and meet Kate’s father. “I want to talk to Kate alone.”

“About babies?”

“What babies?”

“Leave it Vic. If you see her send her back in here.”

Kate was coming from her bedroom buttoning up her shirt.

“Hi Mr Pony,” she giggled.

Vic reddened which intensified her giggle. “Where’s Shaun?”

“I sent him out two hours ago to do my essential chores. When I’m nice to him he’ll do anything for me. Despite my awful head I was very nice when waking him.”

“I bet. Nina wants to chat.”

“What about?”

“Wouldn’t have a clue. See you later.”


The weathered-face man looked at Vic closely. “You Vic?”

“Yes Mr…I mean Ryan.”

“She told you not to call me Gabby?”

“Actually she told me not to call you Mr Clayton if I valued my balls.”

She said that?"

“Not the bit about my nuts.”

“But you thought that was in her mind?”

“She’d a spunky woman, Ryan. I did think that was in her mind but probably out of respect for her father she shut her mouth.”

The man laughed and held out his hand. “An accurate assessment. Call me Gabby and yes, I’ll come and work for you. Kate said your woman is a good looker with great tits.”

“What, she didn’t mention the legs?”

Gabby laughed and asked when it would be suitable for him to start and invited Vic to walk to him to check on a couple of horses in the corral with leg wounds.

“We take over at the end of next month. You can start on handover day.”

“Why not before?”

“It’s not our ranch.”

Gabby said that didn’t matter. The Hungers hadn’t been farming it for eighteen months. He’d look around and start on repairing fencing.

“But you’ll be out there all alone?”

“Son, why do you think I want to work on that ranch? It’s a paddock compared with the real ranches of bygone days but these days it’s the biggest ranch within fifteen miles of town. I’ll have my cell phone – the boy Hunger installed the beacon thing or whatever they called it to put the ranch on the network linking town.”

“But won’t the Hungers throw you off the property; they want no-one there.

“Nah, I’ll call Leigh and get her mom to call on the Hungers. She went to school with them and I used to have my time with Jane, like once a week. Adultery it was called then and perhaps still is. If you ever meet Leigh’s father you’ll know why.”

“You mean Leigh Masters, the real estate agent?”

“The company’s appraiser actually. Yes, Leigh thinks of me as a kindly godfather. She knew what was happening and came to the conclusion when her mom came away from me she was happy.”

“This is an odd thing to be telling me.”

“There’s a rumor that you’re doing the same thing with Leigh, my boy. I bet that sort of takes your breath away, me knowing that?”

“Oh hell.”

“Take my advice, Vic. Keep on the dangerous path but don’t get caught. Even your woman will tolerate it providing there’s no evidence as everyone knows how unreliable rumors are.”

“Thanks for that, Gabby. Resuming where we were, what about terms of employment?”

“Don’t need any except you take out accident insurance on me. I’ll work for all found – that is food and accommodation – as your consultant, but I want to work to keep in trim and feel the good earth through my boots, if you know what I mean. I come and go as I please unless I have appointments with you. If I get peacefully drunk you accept it and if I have a woman in my room who’s not my wife you keep your mouth shut like a good boy, otherwise Kate or her mother will have my balls out and mounted on the door, nails driven through them.”

“Jesus.”

“Well, almost as bad as that.”




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 07



“Is that all?”

Gabby rubbed his chin. “Wouldn’t mind being handed spending money when I request it – say $100 bucks a time. Most days I’ll be on the ranch or at home doing odd jobs for Maggie and servicing her – you know what women are like.”

Vic said he agreed to all that and once Gabby began work could he keep in touch because he felt responsible for him. Gabby grinned. Vic then asked how Gabby had managed to take to him so quickly.

“Well, I heard that you had worked for Joe Black and Leigh is accommodating you romantically. As soon as you walked up to me I could feel your presence which was enough for me. Those two are great judges of character; all three of us can’t be wrong.”

“You’re putting me on, right?”

“On this occasion it’s gospel.”

*  *  *

Kate stood at the bedroom window as Nina dressed, watching the two men walking back to the house.

“Dad’s taken him on.”

“Don’t you mean Vic’s offer of a job has been accepted?”

“If you wish.”

“But you don’t mean that do you?”

Kate said her father was a little unconventional, regarding people a little like he regarded horses. “There are horses you like, a few you both like and know that would take you to hell and back. The rest you don’t bother about. That’s why I wanted dad to meet Vic here rather than at your hotel. Dad is always on about the feel of the soil coming up through his boots. Some people hearing that would think he’s weird.”

“I don’t. I’ve heard gardeners get that feeling.”

“Yes and the sick. Dad’s walking back with Vic, hip to hip. If dad didn’t have a good feeling about Vic they’d be walking with a foot gap between them, no matter how much Vic attempted to close the gap and despite dad’s shot hip.”

“Shot hip?”

“Thrown from a horse on to rocky ground. Doc Harrigan said he feared dad would never walk again but added, “Expect he’s a tough coot.”

“So in and out of hospital and the tough coot walked again?”

“Yes, that was almost ten years ago.”

Nina stood watching the limping man. “But back on a horse he’s a man again.”

“It hurts him like hell, but yes.”
Nina asked had he considered going to the city for an artificial hip operation.

“Dad’s never been to the city and never will.”

“I see. And also scared of the knife and doesn’t want any foreign stuff inside his body?”

“You know my father and yet you’ve never met him. Who are you, Nina Raymond? You think you will see me pregnant and now you’re thinking of giving my father a new hip?”

Nina flushed and said she hadn’t said that. When Kate charged than Nina had thought it she flushed a deeper red and shrugged.

“It’s not the money – I could sell one of my top stallions and that would pay for the operation and recovery in hospital.”

“I know Kate, but just let me work on it. My mother always said there’s a solution to almost everything and my mind is now fixing on this, perhaps in my desperation to repay you for your kindness in some tangible way. I know you would refuse a gift-horse, so to speak. I like to think I could find someway to get your father riding and walking again without pain.”

Kate gave Nina a look she’d never seen before; if she had to describe it she’d have to say open-hearted kindness. It probably was the look horses received from Kate.

“You do what you think you have to do, Nina. But be warned: at the end of the day he’ll say no. My father can be so unmovable.”

“Okay, thanks for that,” Nina said, sounding carefree. “I’ve finished here, let’s do down and meet this stubborn old cuss you call father.”

Kate led Nina out on to the back porch and they stood arm-in-arm, acknowledging Vic’s wave and sighting Gabby’s strange expression.

“You’re stunned him; he’d a sucker for a beautiful woman – these days only to look at.”

“Aren’t all men that ways inclined?”

“With my dad’s intensity, I rather think not.”

“Dad, please meet my new friend Nina. Nina, this is my father…”

“Gabby, Nina. Call me Gabby. Mind if I take a good look at you?”

Without waiting for a answer he began circling Nina.

“Dad – you’re rude and repulsive. Nina is not a horse.”

“If you say so, Kate. You really are some woman, Nina.”

“Dad!”

“What?”

“Go to your room.”

Everyone laughed.

“Come, we’ll have a drink Nina while Kate prepares lunch and Vic goes to find Shaun. Be ready to open the corral gate for him Vic – he’ll be bringing in a horse or two that look poorly.”

*  *  *

Vic went off and Kate poured wine for herself and Nina and a beer for her father. Standing at the stove frying chicken, preparing the salad and with the pancake mix already waiting, she watched her father and his captive maiden. She could hear them but made no effort to interject: those two were lost in their own little world. Her father had long lost his good looks, his body was battered but his spirit had survived and his tongue could still charm the pants off a lady, figuratively speaking. At least she was under that impression.

Her father drew a quick potted biography from Nina and then was on to Nina’s likes and dislikes, her attitude towards horses and the land, what she really thought of Vic and whether she was convinced she was doing the right thing spending all that money in this part of the world and attempting to settle down with Vic instead of continuing along the highway when they became restless.

In half an hour Kate realized that thanks to her father’s rude questioning, she’d learned more about Nina than in all the time she’d spent with Nina talking. There was one comment she picked up just ahead of her father: “It’s only money, what I’m doing is investing in Vic because I want him.”

“You wouldn’t have to buy Vic; he must know quality,” said her father.

“True, but we’re buying a future together and he hasn’t been told my reasons for yet but I’m a woman in a hurry – I want him to have it all to enjoy while he’d in his prime.”

“Jesus, you must really love the guy,” Gabby said, obviously impressed.

Kate was intrigued – what did Nina mean so he could have it all? That must mean development of the property – pasture improvement and building up the cattle herds, new machinery, hiring ranch hands. But Nina appeared to be excited beyond that. A new ranch house perhaps? If so it was very likely Shaun would be in charge of that project which would please him. Shaun found it difficult to make friends and it had delighted to see how well he and Vic blended, both pretending it wasn’t happening but clearly a bond was developing.

Kate’s mind took a great leap, back to the astonishing conversation she’d had in the bedroom with Nina. Nina had asked casually, “When do you intend starting a family?”

Instantly Kate gave herself away, becoming tense and she heard herself mutter, “Probably later rather than sooner; we’re in no hurry.”

“Tell me Kate.”

Kate gasped, she physically gasped, giving herself away completely, making her feel like a rat transfixed in front of drooling dog out to play. This woman, the gall of her, only twenty-one. What age had to do with it Kate was unsure, but someone was to blame for this!

“We can’t have children; don’t feel sorry for us,” Kate blurted.

“Sorry, why should I be sorry? I’m attempting to be the cavalry. Tell me what the problem is?”

“You’re only twenty-one.”

“Is that relevant?”

“No.”

Nina smiled, making no attempt to reach out and hug. “Tell me Kate.”

“Tests have confirmed its Shaun. For god’s sake, don’t mention this to him; he’s shattered although maintains a brave face.”

“That’s great.”

“What?”

“All is not lost. My heart reaches out for Shaun though.”

“Not lost? But it is. He refuses to adopt and with my mares I use stallions, not AI. I’m not in favor of assisted conception.”

“But why not?”

“That’s my business if you don’t mind. Oh sorry, that’s rude. I’m a believer in the natural order of things.”

“Then use Vic to impregnate you. I won’t mind.”

“What! Oh God, what are you saying to me?”

“Just re-arranging the order of things.”

“I can’t believe I’m having this conversation. If I allowed that to happen I’d never be able to look you two in the face ever again.”

“Nonsense, if there is a child make us her godparents.”

“Her?”

“Well, my thinking is it will be a girl. A strong-willed adorable girl and you’ll love her and she’ll ride like the wind.”

“Ride?”

“Yes, and exceptionally well because he mother’s a great teacher.”

Kate began crying, claiming Nina was seducing her mind.

“Well, someone has to do it.”

“Why, answer that conclusively and perhaps I’ll begin taking you seriously.”

“But you already have the answer. It’s in the natural order of things, only with a slight readjustment.”

Kate began laughing through her tears and that’s when Nina moved in and hugged her.


Thinking back about that, Kate had decided she wouldn’t do it. But then she kept seeing a small girl on a big horse riding like the wind. She didn’t know what to do. Then she realized she did know what to do: talk to her father.

After lunch Kate decided to advance Nina’s training, so they went out and she began tutoring Nina the basics of controlling her mount to work cattle. They returned both dusty and Nina sweaty as well as she’d been on the horse, performing hard to carry out Kate’s instructions.

After that Kate went outside and sat in the shade on a rickety old seat, in deep conversation with her father.

Nina returned downstairs from her shower feeling great when Kate come in through the door and looked at Nina shyly. Nina held open her arms and Kate ran into them. “I’m on, two or three months after your wedding…”

“Let’s make that a week after the wedding – I don’t want you becoming pregnant too far ahead of me.”

“You mean together, or thereabout?”

“Yes, wouldn’t it be great?”

“Oh yes, of heavens yes. When will you ask him?”

“We – I want you there.”

“No, I’ll die of embarrassment.”

“Scarcely embarrassment considering what he is expected to do. Unless you do it full on Kate you may not become pregnant.”

“Oh God, to think you people could be looking?”

“No-one will know, he’s a master at subterfuge.”

Kate looked shocked. “You’ve heard the rumor?”

“Yes.”

“It may not be true.”

“Yes, but then again it may be true.”

“Don’t you mind?”

“No, providing I don’t catch them at it. Beside, I really like her and have asked her to be my matron of honor. She wanted to decline but I said my friendship with her was more important than rumors. She’s accepted.”

“Oh my, did she give even a hint that she was Vic’s fancy woman or attempt to deny it.”

“No, she just smiled and said I had a wonderful husband-to-be and we kissed.”

“Oh God, now this is absolutely tight-lipped information, forever. Agreed?”

“My lips will remain sealed.”

Kate braced herself. “My father and her mother were long-time lovers. Leigh found out about it as a teenager and accepted it and began regarding dad as her godfather, or stepfather I rather fancy.”

“Good God, the webs people spin. Actually having met Leigh’s father I can understand why his wife went astray and why Leigh came to look upon the liaison kindly. No-doubt she would have seen a happier side of her mom exposed.”

“Exactly. Why is it you know so much about relationships for one so young?”

“Neither of my parents displayed any love to me and they both behaved like animals, each attempting to maximize hurt to the other but without ever coming to blows. It was so horrible and when I exited from my teens the men around me assumed I was like my parents and attempted to treat me accordingly. That also was horrible. Two months after my mother died and my father ordered me from the house I took to the road, was accosted by two drunken young men and a stranger called Victor Haig waded into them like a hero and rescued me.”

“Oh God, how utterly romantic. But don’t you suspect you may have been caught in a dream rather than reality and over-exaggerated the impact on your life of Vic?

“I did think about it for a while but my affection towards him grew, especially after I realized I no longer needed his protection. At the same time I was aware if it ends it ends. Please don’t ever mention this to Vic but my love and respect for him soared when he cut me off, refusing to allow me to disclose just how wealthy I am.”

“So the rumor is true. You are wealthy.”

“Yes, and this is for your ears only. I have $27 million, all in liquid assets and if my father’s business sells on valuation I will have up to another $9 million added to that.”

“B-b-but this is unbelievable. You don’t act at all like a woman of great wealth. You appear no different to me.”

“That’s where I want to be darling.”

“But you have no diamonds, you drive only a stock SUV, not even an over the top model?”

“But I’m buying a ranch and I do have a most beautiful necklace, one that Vic bought me to celebrate our first year as a couple when on the way to this county.”

“B-b-but why buy the rundown Hunger Ranch?”

“Because Vic was hoping we could stretch ourselves and purchase it. In that land he saw a dream.  He’s never had much from life whereas I grew up in a wealthy household. So why would I want to pull him away from his dream? Actually I found it easy to share his dream, Kate. He pointed it out to me.”

“What exactly? All ranches farm cattle or horses.”

“Ah, what a selfish use of ranch land. That’s all I wish to say at the moment.”

Kate looked aghast and clutched her bosom. “Oh God, you two want to develop a dude ranch. Your fellow ranchers will be up in arms against that – they’ve always succeeded in extinguishing similar projects.” 

“I guess there are rumors about that too Kate. But let’s get the wedding over before there’s any talk about this, huh?”

“Okay, I won’t breathe a word, not even to Shaun.”

“We are hoping to persuade Shaun to take on the role of guest facility project management.”

“Make a fair offer and I’d imagine he’ll accept. Folk around here just want to preserve this lifestyle and have nothing that spills strangers in great numbers into town. I just breed and sell horses and act as a horse rejuvenation refuge for over-stressed horses.”

“You know and I ask you to keep your mouth shut about this Nina. For some eighteen months the club has been talking about the need to groom a successor for Trinity – our vice-president is older than Trinity. I have the feeling Trinity’s successor has been discovered. I’ll watch with interest how you two related tomorrow. If she sees it in you I’ll know.




To be Continued. 












Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 08



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who either mistook her for a hooker or an easy opportunity. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her father. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina's SUV with no destination in mind. They work on a dude guest ranch and a year later help the proprietor rebuild his computer and video business. They leave the coast and head east into traditional cattle land and look for a run-down ranch to buy and build it up. The purchase of a run-down privately owned ranch of 63,800 acres becomes possible when Nina reveals she's the daughter of an heiress and inherited her mother's wealth. Their adventures continue while waiting to 'hand-over' day of the property. In this episode the couple sort out friend Kate's conception problem and make a return visit to the guest ranch of the 'legendary' Joe Black and his wife Hannah.

* * * 

Kate Levett's premonition that it would be embarrassing talking to Vic about using him to impregnate her was correct. Nina, Vic and Kate has ridden out to look at horses when they stopped under shelter of trees for coffee and Nina opened the subject delicately, Kate nodding approvingly, when Vic removed his Stetson, swept his hair back and said, "What, the two of you at once?"

The two horrified women looked and then took the only sensible way out: they burst into laughter, shaking their heads and attempting not to hurt his feelings.

"If that's a no, what then?"

Nina proceeded carefully. "You go off with Kate once a month at her prime time for a couple of nights, treat her gently with loving care and returned her home safely."

"What, without Shaun's knowledge?"

"No, if we secure your agreement, Kate then talks to Shaun."

"And if we all agreed, then Kate and I can rut into exhaustion."

"Darling, I think you two will have to establish rules of engagement and to approach the entire encounter with dignity – as a medical assignment I should think Kate?"

"I should think so."

Vic fiddled with his hat. "How many times a day?"

Nina colored and asked, "Kate?"

"Whatever it takes, I should think. We'd need to seek advice Nina."

"Nah, you read up about it on the internet guys," Vic suggested. "Those consultants will give you a thermometer and temperature chart and as she nears the peak of ovulation they'll require me to spread a white sheet over her midriff and insert as she counts down. I'll be so nervous I won't be able shoot until Kate pulls me out of her, too late."

"Vic!"

"Leave him Nina; he's doing his best. From what he's just said I've gotten the image of men in white coats circling us with stop-watches and leading Vic up to me by a head halter."

"Oh, how ghastly," Nina said, unable to giggle like Kate. "We're not serious about that, are we?"

"No, Kate laughed nervously and the three of them almost scared the horses off with their laughter. "What do you suggest, Vic – be serious."

"Act like a couple aiming for conception."

"Yes," Kate cried excitedly but then lost her smile. "W-w-what if we fall in love?"

Vic quickly doused that concern. "Do you have a small pussy?"

"I think so."

"Think so? Oh, okay. Then it won't be a problem. You'll be practically legless after I've finished with you that you'll be glad to see the last of me."

"Nina?"

"He could be right; I believe you two are not too competitive to fall in love. Rather being cooped up with him for three or four days you'll sort him out – probably reducing him to visiting hours."

"Should we conduct a trial now?" Kate suggested.

"What, the three of us?"

"Yes Nina, I'll feel happier with you here."

Nina looked at Vic who shrugged; he was no help at all.

"All right," she said unbuttoning her shirt, "This could be fun."

Kate's radio hanging from her saddle horn burst into life.

It was Dean. "Kate, Lorna Macdonald is here for you to fit her saddle properly."

"Right, coming. I'm ten minutes away."

"Understood. Bye."

"But sadly I'm not coming here," Kate giggled. "Perhaps we were not meant to experiment."

"Perhaps so," Nina sighed. "You go. I best help my man with this lump he's developed."

That night in bed Nina and Vic could hear the low tones of Shaun and Kate talking, no words distinguishable. They were drifting off to sleep when there was a knock.

"Come in."

Shaun entered and turned on the light.

"Shake my hand Vic, what a hero," Shaun said, wiping his eyes. Vic sat up and the men hugged, slapping each other on the back.

Shaun leaned over and kissed Nina, saying her consent was greatly appreciated.

"I think it's wonderfully brave of you to allow this to happen, Shaun," she said supportively. "You may not be aware of it but you are the real hero."

Shaun was standing at the end of the bed wiping his eyes when Kate came into the room, looking very concerned. "Oh baby, what's the matter," she cooed, running to him. 

"It's Vic and Nina, they have been so nice to me. Nina just told me my action is heroic."

"Oh, and so it is, darling. I told you what a wonderful woman she is; our county is already being enriched by her presence and she'd only just started."

"Hey, what about me?"

"Oh, and you too Vic," Kate said, running around the end of the bed to hug and kiss Nina. 

"Is what we are intending to do legal?" Kate asked.

None of them knew. Nina took charge. "Perhaps it's best that we don't enquire. There could be complications over the legal claims to any offspring and over the offspring's biological status legally, but we have no intention of making any sort of parental claim now or into the future, have we Vic; we'd agreed on this."

"Yes, absolutely," said Vic. "Our involvement is plutonic – that's the word you used, Nina. We do it and if we succeed we keep our mouths shut, forever. We did suggest continuing involvement by being named godparents."

"Oh yes, oh I'm sorry, guys. Shaun, that was mentioned before you came into discussions."

"I think that would be a great idea. It really has me excited to hear you guys talking so positively about this."

"Okay, here's a biggie and think carefully before you answer Shaun," Kate said. "Would you think any less of me having been with Vic and then knowing Vic was the father of any child from that union?"

"I've already thought hard and the answer is no, at least not as far as I can tell. My attitude is Vic with Nina's support is giving us a great opportunity to enhance our lives. I wish you guys every success. This is what I think; instead of going off somewhere you and Vic could stay here and do it. Kate you will be happier being in proximity to your horses – you're never one to leave home overnight if you can help it."

"That makes sense, where will you stay?"

"With me," Nina giggled.

"Thanks Nina but one of the hotels in town will be fine."

* * *

The Twill's arrived in their 'town' car – a stretched Jaguar. Kate had warned the visitors would be dressed formally and was correct, justifying everyone including Gabby to look tidy.

"A couple of bottles of French champagne for the table my dear," Trinity said, kissing Kate. "Good gracious – your hair, your dress. Is someone looking after you? And that make-up. If you don't mind me saying so, you don't smell the slightest big horsy."

"No Trinity, anyone else but you saying that to me would have been bopped, hard into the tits."

"Oh dear, dear Kate – looking such a lady but retaining the common touch. Alan, please hand across the stuffed chickens, fruits and cheeses. As you know Kate, it is our family tradition never to go anywhere empty handed."

"Thank you darling, I under-catered expecting your generosity."

"Oh darling, kiss-kiss," murmured Trinity moving in and kissing Kate again. If only I had a daughter like you instead of those two cold-faced bitches back east."

"Trinity!"

"Sorry Alan, I must not defame family. Oh look at your father, with a tie on! What a sight. Come and kiss me Gabby. Hi, Shaun, we love the house and look here – it's the fine bodied man, Mr Haig I believe, I've temporarily forgotten you name, a difficult one I seem to remember."

"Vic."

"Oh indeed. Difficult did I say? And where is this lovely lady of yours?"

"Nina, time to make your entrance," Kate shouted.

"Why, why should she do that? Ohmigod. Look Alan."

Even Vic was startled. He'd never seen Nina with her hair pulled almost her right eye like that. She was wearing a dress that wasn't hers, split up the left leg almost to the waist and the front plunged almost down to her belly button and held more or less together with black lacing. Obviously by the bulging breast she had some kind of under bra thingy on but there was no sign of it. Her olive skin seemed more olive that usual and her lip coating looked painted in shiny red. Vic decided it was the closest woman to a film star he'd ever seen.

Gabby began clapping and the others joined in, causing much merriment.

A hairdresser and beautician came down the stairs, looked at their creation and departed, calling "Bye Kate, good-afternoon Mrs Twill."

"Kate, how do your know Rebecca and Chrissie – I believe you never have set a foot in their premises?"

"True, but their families buy their horses from me. Wink, wink."

Trinity laughed and looked fondly at Kate. She turned to the stranger.

"Oh, it's Nina, isn't it? The town talks about you and your husband."

At that Vic stuck a finger down his neck to loosen sudden pressure on his collar.

"Yes, I'm Nina, Mrs Twill. I'm hoping to be your very good neighbor. I'm sorry about this get-up but Kate insisted and she can be very persuasive."

"Don't we know, don't we all know. Alan, champagne for the ladies, the men if they wish otherwise the drink of their choice. Shaun, please assist Alan."

"Certainly, Trinity. I do like that beautiful dress."

"Flattery will get you everything, Shaun."

With the men out on the porch drinking, Kate said to Trinity, "I had Kate dressed up to show you her potential."

"Potential for what?"

Kate remained mute.

"Answer me Kate...Ohmigod, you think you've found my successor? You clever girl."

"Chat to her Trinity while I organize lunch. If you don't see and hear class I'll go out to the car and fetch your glasses and hearing aid."

"Cheeky bitch," Trinity snorted quietly, and the three women laughed.

Half an hour later, with the liquor working, Nina was seated at the table between Trinity and Alan. Nina had finally decided to be bold.

"Mrs Twill, I mean Trinity?"

"Yes my dear?"

"Kate says you are a registered marriage celebrant."

"Yes my dear, in the powers vested in me I pronounce you wife and man."

The other conversations had halted and everyone laughed.

"Will you kindly officiate at my and Vic's wedding next month."

"Oh gracious, you want me to perform in front of all those people?"

"No, it's just a small wedding in this room?"

"But the plan is to repeat the ceremony in front of everyone in the Dome."

"What crowd, what Dome? I know nothing about this?"

"Darling, I have been advised that our First Citizen Joe Black is coming here for your wedding. So it was necessary to make appropriate arrangements so planning is well under way. You would have been informed in due course, being the bride and so would Kate."

"But I wanted a small wedding, with some of my new neighbors in attendance."

"Oh, this is far better darling. You have your wee wedding here and then you and your bridal party and guests will be whisked into town by a fleet of helicopters. You and Vic will then head the street parade – so I advise a short wedding dress darling. On the chuck wagon at the tail of the parade will be the Mayor and me with Kate and Shaun and a few other distinguished persons surrounding our First Citizen Joe Black who'll be standing on platform in the centre of the open chuck wagon waving to his adoring fans."

"But no-one will know who he is; he's a forgotten legend."

"Who told you that – it's absolute rubbish?"

"It's a rumor."

"Well, our town is awash with rumors, none of them true. If you believe any of them you run the risk of being incarcerated."

"Really?"

"Yes my dear, always remember that," Trinity said, with a grateful Vic hanging on to her every word.

"Then at the Dome your wedding ceremony is repeated simply because everyone loves a wedding and everyone will love seeing Joe Black giving you away. It will be assumed you are one of his illegitimate daughters."

Nina began laughing uncontrollably until finally Kate smacked her face.

"Thanks Kate, I needed that," Nina said weakly. Kate fed her a full glass of champagne.

"Well?" Trinity asked.

"Trinity, you and the town can have its wedding on one condition and that is you and your friends undertake to quell any opposition to Vic and I developing Haig Ranch into an adult only guest ranch, maximum occupancy eighty guests so that the interlopers mingled unnoticed when in town."

"A guest ranch, but no-one wants a guest ranch in this county," Trinity said weakly.

"We do."

"Yes, but I'm talking long settled families who covet the traditional ways."

Nina, now on a roll thanks to the champagne, winked broadly at the startled Kate and said in a very firm voice, "Joe Black has been running a guest ranch; I managed it for almost a year."

"I don't believe it."

Nina pushed her chair back and looking grim said, "Are you calling me a liar Trinity?"

"No, no – of course not. My apologies. Ohmigod, I believe you – why would you lie?"

"Quite."

Nina pulled out her phone and selected a number. "Press 'Go' Trinity and if we have coverage here you'll get straight through to Joe. I want to make sure you believe me."

Trinity pushed the phone back as if it were electrified, saying she believed Nina absolutely. 

Conversation lurched until Gabby raised the ante. "Trinity, you and I go a long ways back; we used to have some flings, didn't we?"

"Before my marriage, yes," Trinity managed, face very red.

"Oh, was it?"

"I welcome these two young people into our community, Trinity, and hope you do the same. I also hope they can develop their property without any untoward interference from neighbors. Nina has offered you a deal Trinity – you get your parade and a big show at the Dome in return to eliminating unjustified opposition to their project – by that she means emotional opposition but not legal opposition. Got that?"

"I hear what you say, Gabby."

"What I'm saying Trinity do the deal with her – it has more upside than downside for you personally. But if you agree to deal and later think about reversing that decision be very careful Trinity. That tricky action just could result in me remembering something concerning your two daughters and Joe Black one night when they were snowbound in O'Leary's cabin up there in Blue Vein Gulch."

"H-how did you learn about that?"

"I swore to keep my mouth closed, Trinity, unless I was ever forced into a corner."

"Gabby, I've always liked you – my mom loved you and wished you were the son she never had. Sleep easy, Gabby. I shall honor my commitment to our beautiful Nina."

Everyone lined up on the porch to farewell the guests. Kate went with Trinity and opened the car door for her.

"Your father was a bit rough on me, Kate."

"My apologies but you always admired him for being a sharpshooter."

"Oh so I did, kiss him goodnight for me, darling. I'm not sure if I've ever told you this but it was he who took my virginity."

"No, you only told me he left you three weeks away from the altar."

"Well, he did find me in bed with Harold Walters."

"Oh yes."

Kate waited but no declaration appeared forthcoming. She was so disappointed.

The car glided forward then stopped and the passenger window rolled down.

"Oh Kate, thanks for everything. Most enjoyable time. Yes, she's the one."

Kate was ecstatic. Trinity had a few more years left in her, but she now acknowledged her protégé was in place. Kate went inside and found Nina clearing away, assisted by Gabby of all people.

"Are you all right dad?"

"Yes, fine. I'm attempting to show my best side to the boss."

Kate slid in behind Nina, clasping her arms around Nina, cupping her breasts.

"Nina, is that you," Kate began nervously.

"Rest easy, I just want to feel your power – your spirit I mean. I think you'll find no-one in the county has ever taken Trinity apart like you did here today."

"I was simply been defensive."

"Fuck girl, I'd sure hate to be in your way when you're on attack."

"Stop been silly, Kate. I'm just a sweet, compliant girl."

"Oh really?"

"Stop it – that's my favorite saying."

"Oh really?"

"What's got into you Kate?"

"Madam has just told me you're the one – you're her protégé.

"Oh really. Is the position all that significant?"

"It's placed after law enforcement, city administration and Chamber of Commerce darling, but when the Town Ladies Club rumbles over an issue, its become clear who rules the roost in Clarkesville."

"Clarkesville – is that the name of our town?"

"Yes, but everyone dislikes the name. That's why it's simply called The Town."

"Oh really?"

Kate and Nina changed and went out for another training lesson. Already Nina was learning the difference between the horse being in control and when she had to be in control. She had two more full training days to go, with rests in between when she'd help with the chores.

"How long will you stay with Joe Black?"

"They just said come and stay, giving no time. I guess a week is tops."

"Nina, don't be shy – as soon as you arrive ask Joe Black to look you over on a horse and give you some tips. Tell him you're dedicated to becoming a cowgirl – he'll respond."

"Kate."

"Yes?"

"Why does everyone around here call him Joe Black all the time, even after the first mention of his name?"

"I guess it's a combination of things."

"Really?"

"The name Joe Black is a combination that seems to go better than separately, if you get what I mean. Then of course he'd a legend – saying Joe Black in a small localized way is akin to saying Richard the Third, Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar or even that wonderful horse, Man O' War."

"You've had too much to drink – God you were holding my breasts before. Are you gay?"

"I don't think so, but I really do like you Nina Raymond, perhaps better than any friend I've ever had. My heart melts when I think of you wanting me to have a baby, the extent you are willing to make that possible, and that you want a baby when I'm having my little girl."

"Oh really? I thought it was I who was to have the little girl."

"Take that as a sign, Nina. We both will have girls."

"Well, first we have to get pregnant," Nina yawned. They laughed.

"Kate?"

"Yes."

"I suggest you be very, very kind to Shaun. He will be feeling gutted, despite any denial."

"I know. May I squeeze your tits again?"

"No, get away you animal. Gawd, we're drunk. Goodnight darling."

"Goodnight Mrs President."

"Oh really, you are such a tease Kate."

* * *

Late afternoon on Wednesday the white pick-up pulled up outside the ranch house.

Hannah came out and shielding her eyes against the sun said, "Excuse me, the guest office is over there."

"Oh sorry, I thought we were house guests Hannah?"

"Vic?"

"That's me. Good afternoon ma'am," he said, easing his long frame from the vehicle and hugging Hannah who showed no inclination of letting him go. 

Hannah asked, "Where's Nina?"

"Right behind you."

"Oh Nina, I'm sorry. It's just that I've really missed this boy. We haven't been having a happy time since the changeover, I'm afraid. Our son is not a fan of the tradition, the cowboy way. Oh you lovely lady, just look at you. I do declare that you are brimming, ready for pregnancy."




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 08



"Oh Hannah," Nina said, blushing.

"Vic, I need you to tell me about networking our computers via radio. I really can't understand it."

"Excuse me," Nina said, but neither of them heard her. She'd seen a familiar figure on horseback approaching. She ran towards him.

"Oh Lordy, what a sight," called the horseman. "Have I died and gone to heaven."

"I've heard all about your smooth-taking and broken hearts of ladies Joe Black and much more besides. You never spoke a word to me about rodeo."

"Shhhh, Nina. Watch your tongue. Where's Hannah."

"In the office with Vic."

"Sorry about that," Nina. "I'm really pleased to see you again honey. Things around here went down pretty fast after you two left. Our daughter is besotted with her husband and can't see that he's taken a wrong turn here. Margo has forgotten everything she'd every learned and won't even ride a horse because he doesn't want her to risk injury."

"Is she pregnant?"

"No. And that's the trouble. My son is a young guy who has yet to learn humility."

"Can't you teach him Joe Black?"

"Why do you call me Joe Black rather than Joe?"

"Because that's what you're called in Clarkesville and beyond."

"Where's Clarkesville?"

"Are you going senile? It's the town that services your old Hunger Ranch."

"Oh, you mean The Town."

Nina sighed heavily. "We got there at last, Joe Black. Yes I do. And you know something odd, Joe Black. Vic is playing around with Leigh Masters who was a Brody, just as you used to play around with her mother."

"Now just a minute young lady," Joe said as he dismounted. "This is slander of two fine men. How do you know Vic has anything to do with Leigh?"

"I've heard it rumored."

Joe's face creased into smiles. "Rumored Nina? Have you any idea how accurate The Town's rumor-mill is? I've heard said it's alleged the last time it rumored something accurately was back, way back, in 1937. I didn't even know Leigh had a mother."

"Liar."

"Nina, you've toughed up. If you were a man I would have walloped you for calling me."

"Teach me the finer points of riding then working cattle, Mr Rodeo Hero."

"Nina, for goodness sake close down that loud voice of yours. If Hannah hears you saying that I'll be run off the property."

"Well talk about that later."

"Well, you'd show me very little or learn little new on Boyo here. He's a trail horse, I've been checking fence lines," Joe said, holding out his hand. "Swing up behind me and we'll put you onto a cow pony – something more your size but the cattle don't seem to notice the difference."

Anxious this mounting would not rekindle Joe's old injuries Nina grabbed his hand and leapt, imagining herself being as light as a feather as if that thought really could achieve something. She landed without losing skin or bruising, managing to avoid the saddle and the only reaction from Joe was a grunt which was to be expected.

"Lean against me tightly Nina – there's nothing like the feel of a woman's softness against your back."

She pressed hard and laughed, "Don't you mean tits?"

"If you were a whore, yes."

Swept by embarrassment Nina pulled away but responded instantly when Joe commanded, "Return to your position; you're no whore Nina."

In good grazing land of perhaps 40 acres beside the barn were eight horses in the mid-distance. Joe sent out a piercing whistle and three of the horses came rushing in. A bay mare pushed closest to accept Joe and as Nina swung the gate open Joe led Juna through into the barn just by the mane.

"She so well trained, so docile," Nina said admiringly.

"Juna's also firecracker if I want action from her; she's one of my string. I take it you've been working on your riding since being at The Town?"

"Yes, under the eye of Kate..."

"Maggie and Gabby's daughter?"

"Yes, I didn't think you'd remember her."

"One of the best kids I've seen with horses – I'd swear she talks to them and they talk back."

"I guess you knew her mother?"

Joe gave Nina a dry stare, and then added, "And Gabby – salt of the earth he is; an old-style cowboy or was before he was crippled. You've fallen among good people."

"I know. When I called asking you to give me away you were in a hurry so we didn't get to talk about the wedding party."

"Well, we're in a hurry now. We'll talk later – there's her saddle pad and saddle, put them on – I want to see how you do it."

"Which is her bridle?"

"She's doesn't mind in what order she's dressed and it doesn't matter – I've never seen anyone ride off forgetting to put on the bridle."

Under Joe's watchful eye Nina began by introducing herself, allowing Juna to sniff her forearm and then Nina pushed her palm into Juna's nose.

"Let me see what you've got," Joe said as soon as Nina had saddled up. "Try without the bridle. Juna expects you to mainly control her with your body."

"Can't we do this outside where there's more room."

"No, this is fine. Go right to the far end and ride Juna through that machinery; you'll be fine as she has no wish to walk into heavy metal.

"You're a hard man Joe Black. It's a wonder you're not asking me to gallop back when I turn and end with a sliding stop."

"You have great anticipation, Nina. That's exactly what I want to do."

"Oh holy hell."

"There's no such place," he grinned.

They walked back to the house just ahead of a large group of guests coming in from a whole afternoon's round-up to shift the cattle to another section of summer pasture. Bella and Betsy escorting the group waved excitedly and both charged up on their horses to welcome her.

Joe watched his protégé being greeted warmly by the two cowgirls who tended not to show much emotion. That reunion pleased him.

As the cow girls rode away, he said, "You can prattle on now, Nina. Tell me about your wedding party."

Nina beamed. "Kate will be my bridesmaid."

"I understood Kate is married."

"She is, but that makes no difference to me; she's the one. But how do you know that – you severed your connections with county."

"Trinity Twill writes once a month which keeps me up-to-date."

"Why would Trinity...oh please don't bother answering you wicked man," Nina teased, increasing Joe's embarrassment.

They walked on chatting, almost touching, walking much like a father and daughter who was daddy's girl. Nina only now was in the process of learning she loved Joe Black as a substitute dad.

"Oh look at you," Hannah fussed. "Fancy Joe allowing you to become sweaty in those lovely clothes."

"I'm fine, I told Joe Black I wanted to ride a real cow pony and he introduced me to Juna."

"Yes, a sweet horse and great worker. Joe can command and she'll go down on to her knees for him but she'll not do it for anyone else. But tell me, I'm curious. Why did you call him Joe Black instead of just Joe?"

"Did I?" Nina said vaguely. "Is that apple pie I can smell?"

"Yes but I'll fetch a muffin – apple pie is for dinner. Margo and Mr Know-all are joining us to meet you."

"His name's Kevin, isn't it?"

"Yes Nina. Thank you for pulling me up; it's so easy to slip into bad ways. Shouldn't you be kissing Vic hello again?"

"Oh yes, being with your personable husband allowed Vic to drop from my mind. Come here and kiss me please darling."

"You men get your own coffee," Hannah snapped. "I'll fetch you coffee and muffin Nina and then you go straight along and wash up. I've told Margo so much about you that she'll be expecting something great when she meets you. Please don't let me down."

"Of course not Hannah, I regard you almost as my mother."

Hannah gasped and hurried from the room. Nina turned to be kissed by Vic and her enthusiastic "Hello darling, how's my big boy," turned Joe's slightly sour face into a grin.

"You know guys, Hannah's dreading going back to The Town. She keeps muttering on about a thousand deaths and hopes she doesn't see anyone who recognizes her. It's going to be a small wedding, isn't it? That's what you said Nina."

Nina looked at him squarely. "Joe Black, I'd never lie to you as to me you now totally represent the cowboy way. I have been in search of something to replace family and believe I'll find it in Western tradition. But putting that aside, yes it will be a small wedding in Kate and Shaun Levett's front room. But you better get used to this Joe Black and find someway to pacify Hannah. I assure you the rest of my wedding day has been taken from me. The wedding party will then be transported to town in helicopters to take part in a Street Parade with you as returning town hero. We then go to the Dome for a re-enactment of the wedding followed by a ceremonial welcome home to you."

"Jesus, that will be a heart-stopper for Hannah."

"And for you?"

Joe shuffled his feet. "I admit to kinda liking the sound of it. I won't cooperate if you believe all this extra will ruin your wedding?"

"No, it's cool and rather nice to think the wedding and hero's welcome back home have been integrated into a joint event. I'll probably have the most memorable wedding in the town's history."

Joe asked Vic for his opinion.

"What Kate wants and agrees to is okay by me."

Joe said that was great and asked did they realize The Town wasn't his home town? 

Vic said the organizers were aware of that it appeared a celebration greater than the 4th of July was long overdue. 

Vic then asked, "Who explains this to Hannah?"

"I'll tell Hannah," Nina said firmly, aware of the gratified look she was receiving from Joe.

"Tell Hannah what?" Hannah asked, arriving with Nina's refreshments.

"Give me ten minutes to run a bath Hannah and come in and sit with me while I soak. I'd like to talk to you about the wedding. Could you bring a couple of brandies?"

"Brandies, it's rather early for alcohol."

"We've much to celebrate Hannah and believe me you will appreciate having a stiff drink in your hand."

To be Continued.



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 09



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who either mistook her for a hooker or an easy opportunity. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her father. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina's SUV with no destination in mind. They work on a dude guest ranch and a year later help the proprietor rebuild his computer and video business. They decide to leave the coast and head east into traditional cattle land and look for a run-down ranch to buy and build up. The purchase of a run-down privately owned ranch of 63,800 acres becomes possible when Nina reveals she's the daughter of an heiress and inherited her mother's wealth. Their adventures continue while waiting to 'hand-over' day of the property. In this episode Nina receives advances training from the 'legendary' Joe Black and Nina's bravery in rescuing the Black's egoistical son leads to the family bringing their relationships on to a more even keel.

* * * 

Hannah Black's scream from the bathroom could be heard across range land for 100 miles – actually it was confined to the house and reached the front porch where Joe Black and Vic Haig were sitting watching the tired guest wranglers trudging to their cabins or superior accommodation.

"That Nina has guts," Joe said, a little tensely. Vic replied in similar vein adding, "And that's the truth."

Nina had warned Hannah gently that she might not like everything she was about to hear and said gently, "Just remember dear Hannah, you will be my special wedding guest and none of us can turn back history."

* * *

Hannah set her face, expecting to hear something bad, but what? There was no way Nina could have had a child in the short time she'd been away from them – what was it, just three weeks?

The wedding in the front room sounded so charming, traditional Western actually. When Nina named the short list of guests she squirmed, recognizing names with connections with Joe she'd tried so hard to erase from their memories.

Then Nina began talking about how Trinity Twill and the Women's Town Club of which she was president became anxious to have the return of Joe Black acknowledged because memories of his exploits were fading. But that's the very thing Hannah had hoped would happened. Her chest tightened in dread and she prepared to burst into rage as Nina spoke about the wedding party being transported to town in helicopters.

In panic Hannah looked pleadingly at Nina but the young girl plowed on, stopping only to say, "Brace yourself for this bit, Hannah – only half listen and it may not seem so bad."

Hannah attempted to follow that advice but into her brain drilled words such as street parade, re-enactment of the wedding for the town to witness and ceremonial welcome to the return of Joe Black.

Hannah screamed, her loudest scream ever.

She looked scathingly at this terrible young woman who simply smiled at her and told her to drink her brandy.

Hannah threw the drink down her throat and chocked and spluttered her way into tears. That damn Nina then had the audacity to enquire, "Feel better now?"

Hannah heard herself using a string of oaths, not quite directed at Nina but out on the porch Joe and Vic heard clearly the words, 'My fucking Romeo husband'.

"You can't turn back history Hannah," Nina intoned. Hannah sobbed, "Don't keep saying that."

Hannah cried herself out and wiping her eyes heard Nina ask, "Feeling better?"

She nodded and began walking away, turning at the door to state quietly: "Joe can have his day. But I won't be there."

"Not even at the wedding."

"No." She left the room to hear Nina call tensely, "Then there won't be a wedding."

Hannah went to her bed and cried herself asleep.

Almost two hours later Hannah went down, dressed for dinner, hoping that Nina had the brains to supervise the cook-housekeeper and to set the table.

The kitchen was fine, cook was happy and the table was set immaculately.

"Hi Hannah," Nina said walking into the dining room with her drink and one for Hannah. "I'm really looking forward to meeting your Margo and making my own mind up about this husband of hers. I believe we are in for a lovely evening."

Hannah managed to hold back the tears. Oh why wasn't Margo as soft and beautiful as this woman?

"Where are the men?"

"On the porch, spruced up a bit."

"You look lovely in Western clothes but I had imagined you in a silk dress."

"I brought one with me, perhaps another night. We would like to stay a full week with you if we may?"

"A week? I want you here much longer than that."

"We must prepare for handover day."

"Oh yes, of course. Let's go through to the men, one of whom appears to be a gentleman."

"I'm working on Vic."

"You think my husband is a gentleman?"

"Yes, in his own way with his old fashion courtesy to women, I think Joe Black is very much a gentleman. I think you acknowledge that deep down."

"There you go again with Joe Black."

"Get used to it – you'll hear it all the time back at The Town."

"But I won't be there."

"Hannah, I'm calling your bluff. You are too much of a lady to deny a girl her wedding."

"Nina Raymond, you are a complex package – under that lace and spice hovers a woman of steel."

"Lace and spice...woman of steel," Nina laughed. "Hannah, you've been reading too many old-time Western paperbacks."

"Come on," Hannah smiled. The gentlemen will be eager for our company."

Both men stood, their grins not wide, and Hannah felt responsible for that. She kissed them both and after Nina kissed them she kissed Nina and patted her back in a motherly fashion.

"Joe Black, I want you to do well when you return to The Town and I'll be there to support you."

Both men whooped and as that died they heard an excited woman's voice cry, "What's going on over there?"

"Hi Margo, Kevin," Joe called. "I'm teaching Vic to whoop. Come inside for pre-dinner drinks and introductions."

Hannah watched the two young women size each other up in a flash, Margo being outclassed in height, looks and charm by the visitor, but perhaps not unduly so – she appeared to be doing her best. Nina complimented Margo on her beautiful auburn hair – it did look lovely – and took Margo in linked arms to introduce her to Vic. 

Margo would never attempt physical contact with anyone on a first meeting. Well judged, Nina, Hannah thought, by not attempting to kiss my rather stiff daughter.

Kevin was a little taken aback when introduced by Nina by Joe and she grinned and said, "G'day mate, How're going?" 

"Good evening," he said eyeing her, noting her eyes did not fall away. "Do you find Australians amusing?"

Hannah wondered if she should intervene and Margo looked nervous.

Nina took the rather unfriendly retort unruffled. "I would think no more amusing that other nationals, though more relaxed that most. "I loved Australia."

"You've been there?" Kevin asked, looking a little more interested.

"Oh yes, four times actually, but never to the Territory where Joe Black says you and Margo were stationed. My father was in Australia on business so mom and I did the touristy things."

"Oh, the malls?"

"Yes, naturally, but also she and I traveled across to Perth by train on one trip, from Adelaide to Alice on another, went on outback safaris, explored the Great Barrier Reef, went to old towns like Charters Towers and hiked for a week out of Cairns. I'm not a person much into galleries and museums – I like it live and outdoors, preferably very outdoors."

"Do you ride? I'm aware you worked here for almost a year but that was in guest management."

"Yes."

"I was thinking of asking you to ride with me tomorrow to shift some bulls but it will be a tiring day, at least six hours."

Joe cut in, "Nina is up to that, take Juna."

"You ride Juna?"

"Yes why?"

"Well no-one is allowed to ride Juna."

They turned to look at Joe but he was walking off to pour himself another drink.

"Will you be coming with us Margo?"

"No, we've hit a snag installing the radio network on our computers. I have to work on that and mom said Vic is a bit of a wiz with computers so I've seconded him. But if you want Vic to ride with you as chaperone, that's fine. I'll plug along unassisted."

Nina laughed and said it would be fine riding without Vic.

"Well, at the barn at 6:00 then," Kevin said. "You'll have to saddle Juna, none of us are allowed near her, Margo included," he said pointedly. Nina turned to Margo and shrugged helplessly. Margo acknowledged with a smile, saying, "That's dad."

During dinner Nina seized an opportunity to whisper to Joe: "Why won't you allow Margo to ride Juna or at least make it known she's free to ride Juna; I'm so embarrassed about this?"

"To Margo a horse is a horse. You are attempting to become one with a horse, any horse that will bond with you like that. I've sometimes thought of Juna and you, but I could never part with her. If she survives my riding days, she's yours."

"Stop it, you'll make me cry."

"See what I mean? Margo rarely emotes. I believe horses know people through the feel of people and by that I don't mean just an appreciative pat on the forehead. On a ranch we ride horses cruelly at times and the ones that feel appreciated work hardest, always giving their best. There are horses of course that can be just as lazy as people."

* * *

They rode out at 6:20, Nina arriving to find Joe had already saddled up Juna who offered no recognition of her. Nina kissed Joe a thanks and walked Juna out, her head alongside Nina's shoulder. She walked the horse in figure-eights until Kevin came out and they were away. Once clear of the stables they broke into a canter.

Slowing the horses for a rest when they went through the one-mile gate the riders chatted. Eventually Nina said, "I see you carry a rifle – incorporating brass thingy where the bullets are side-loaded."

Kevin drew it out and fired at an imaginary target. "It was the first thing I bought apart from necessities when arriving in this country," he said. "It's a replica and I'm very proud of it. It's called a 19 inch, which is the barrel length, Yellow Boy saddle ring carbine, based on a gun of 1866."

Kevin said it weighed only seven and a half pounds. "Here, feel it," he said tossing it to Nina. She caught it in one hand and swung it into position.

"I thought it would be much heavier."

"Many of them are, especially sporting rifles. This is a cowboy's gun. Fire off a round if you wish; it's loaded with twelve."

"Some other time; I've never fired a gun."

"Please yourself," he said, taking the rifle back.

Three hours later they were forcing the last trio of poll (hornless) Angus bulls out of a thicket when the trailing bull fell. Kevin had been riding up close behind it and was watchful but was given little time to react. The bull had slithered round and regained its feet at right angles to Kevin's horse, very close up. The bull took the couple of paces forward and lowering its head and soundlessly tossed the horse. The bull trotted off as Nina came charging in.

The horse was screaming in pain and Kevin with a head wound had lost conscious momentarily and was groaning, opening his eyes again.

"Are you okay?" Nina asked, anxious and sweaty.

"For the moment – shoot the horse."

"What?"

"Shoot the horse – either his leg or back is broken."

"But you're half trapped under him."

"We'll come to that problem later. Shoot the fucking horse, it's in agony. Careful not to shoot me."

Nina struggled with all her strength to worm the rifle free and listened as Kevin told her what to do. The heat was searing in the rocky bowl and Nina had to wipe the sweat from her eyes to see properly after wrestling to free the rifle. She imagined that was pain in the horse's eye and not terror as she pulled the trigger, blood splattering on to her.

"Are you okay," she called calmly.

"Doing fine – that was a truly great horse; I could cry. I'm very grateful that you're stayed calm."

"Did I have a choice?"

"Many women may have fled, at least for a while, I reckon."

"That's conjecture. Women are tougher than what men are prepared to acknowledge. What now?"

"Dunno. Oh shit, I'm going to vomit."

Nina rushed to him, tearing off her shirt and cradled his head while her vomited, mainly bile. She thought he'd lost consciousness again but he grunted, "Sorry for the mess; fortunately I eat only a light breakfast when I ride. Why are you nude?"

"I took my shirt off to wipe your face, silly. Here, allow me."

"You're a tough chick, Nina. Little wonder Joe idolizes you and has high regard for Vic."

"What are you talking about?"

Kevin winced in pain and was silent for a couple of seconds. "When we first arrived Hannah and Joe talked on and on about you two; they made us feel almost of if we weren't wanted, that it should have been your two here running the ranch, not us."

"Oh dear, sorry. Vic and I are naturally open and friendly which tends to win friends."

"Joe idolizes you, Nina. Unfortunately finding out that has rather hurt Margo."

"Oh dear, of course it would. I'm sorry, we'll leave tomorrow."

"Like hell you will. I hope I have a tomorrow."

"What do you mean?"

"My vision is going blurry. Could be internal bleeding. My head hit a rock."

"No, no – it's concussion, yes that's what it is," Nina said desperately. "How can I get this dead horse off you?"

"You can't, my left leg is all the way along to his front leg, still in the stirrup I think. It will take two perhaps three men to move him."

"I'll get a log and use it as a lever."

"A log, out here? You have to be kidding. Oh God, my sight is going, so am I. Fainting I think."

"Kevin, Kevin! It will be concussion; this is your brain closing down to assist healing."

"Or hemorrhaging," Kevin sighed. "Try to build a shelter over me but don't bother keeping me awake. Nobody will be coming any time soon. Spend time trying to think our way out of this."

Seconds later Kevin was no longer answering Nina. Her tears were flowing but she refused to allow herself to really cry, to fall into heartbroken sobbing. She accepted the futility of crying.

She tried her phone but there was no signal as they were behind mountains. She wondered would a radio could have make contact and recalled the old rule recommending working or riding in inhospitable conditions in threes, allowing one person to stay with the victim, the other to ride for help. Well, none of that mattered right now.

Nina put their food and liquids into the shade; some food and water were in Kevin's saddle bag under the horse. Oh well. She checked the time and at least that was on their side – just after 10:00. Hours and hours of daylight left. When they failed to return by 1:30 perhaps 2:00 someone would come looking for them. Joe knew the sector they were working in. How could she reduce that time before they were found? What had Kevin said – try thinking us out of this mess or something like that.

She looked at Juna and Juna, head low, looked back at her.

"Juna!"

She removed the saddle, tied the reins together, swearing because she didn't have paper or pen to attach a note. Frustrated, Nina stomped off in a rage and found herself looking down at a dried water course. She wandered down, frustrated and spotted a type of wildflower she couldn't recall ever seeing. That would have to do – perhaps miraculously it would survive the journey on Juna and Joe would recognize the locality of the rare plant. Rare? In all probability it was everywhere, in clumps of an acre of a time. Then again it could be some sort of surviving water weed: that would cut down places to look.

Nina wiped dried blood off the side of Kevin's head with her dampened handkerchief, put the plant inside the handkerchief and then attached it to the reins with a leather leg ties from the bundle on Kevin's saddle, kissed Juna on the nose, telling her to do her duty and then sent her on her way with a slap on the rump.

Returning to Kevin Nina lifted her smelly shirt laced with vomit off Kevin's head – his breathing was ragged, but she expected that. Her worst fear was infection – that could kill him before he reached hospital. She accepted she'd down her best and replaced the shirt, making sure it didn't touch his wound. Nina sat beside him, pulling the saddle blanked off Juna over her face as protection from the burning sun.

Just as she was drifting off, Nina groaned and began weeping in frustration. It was all range to the one-mile fence – the fence one mile out from the main barn. The gate would be shut; Juna would have to wait for it to be opened, by someone - but when?

Nina heard the sound while still asleep. She became absolutely certain of that. She awoke and knew it was the sound of an incoming helicopter. She screamed with delight and looking down realized Kevin was not saying anything. Fearfully she reached down and began sobbing again, this time with relief as a beating heart was under her hand.

Scanning around she picked the flattest piece of ground, believing if she pranced around she'd be more noticeable than on a rocky top. Her white bra should stand out against her olive skin and the background of browns. She was also wearing white pants so off came her boots, off came her jeans and she hauled her riding boots back on. She waited and waited, initially very upset because rescue was not coming rapidly. She then realized the helicopter was flying a systematic search pattern, probably in overlapping grids. She'd seen that search pattern portrayed in films with maps showing such grids. She smiled, and sat on her ass, feet drawn up, and her jeans over her shoulders for some sun protection. The search was thorough: they'd be found.

* * *

Joe came out of the bard and his eyes narrowed and his chin thrust forward as he prepared to bawl out this rider coming in with the horse almost on to its knees in fatigue. He recognized the black gelding and mouthed the rider's name, Betsy. Betsy would have reason for riding like this.

"Boss, trouble out on the range. I found Juna at the one mile fence, unsaddled, reins tied. There's this blood-stained handkerchief with a weed wrapped in it."

"Great Betsy, look after your horse. This is Nina's work, she and Vic arrived in last night and she and Kevin went out to the south-west quadrant this morning to shift those new Angus bulls."

Joe rode a four-wheeler to the house, rushed in and yelled, "Kevin's hurt – no details."

He called in a helicopter with stretcher and then alerted the nearest hospital, hushing Margo who was crying almost hysterically.

"Sorry darling, no details. Betsy found Juna at the mile fence, a bloodstained handkerchief with this plant in it."

"What's the use of that?" Margo screamed at him. "It's that know-all girl; she's got herself into trouble and something's happened to Kevin attempting to rescue her." "Maybe, maybe not. My thinking is the girl's acting according to script."

"What script, what on earth are you talking about daddy? You said you have no details. Are you mad?"

"Calm down baby," Joe said, almost squeezing the breath out of her. She clung to him, sobbing.

"What's wrong," Hannah called, barging in and trailed by Vic.

"Kevin's in trouble. I've called a chopper. I was told they will be here within fifteen minutes."

"It's Nina who's brought trouble on him," Margo called and resumed her sobbing.

"Hush baby, you're overwrought," Joe said. "You say that and I say Nina's in the process of really becoming a cowgirl. Neither of us knows for sure but Nina's style is written all over this."




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 09



"What are you talking about," Hannah asked.

"He's been talking like this ever since he gave me the news mommy."

"Joe?"

"It's all supposition we have no details – take a look at this Hannah, I'm counting on you."

"Oh my lord, it's that swamp flower I planted years and years ago. I thought none survived."

"Great, I was hoping it was that plant. What kills it?"

"It's pretty drought resistant but cattle love it."

"Bingo, that's where we'll go, to the part of the south-west quadrant where cattle find it tough going, so avoid it. We searched the dried up water courses."

"How can I help?" asked Vic.

"Drive these women to the hospital, but there's no rush. We won't find them in a hurry but your Nina has given us a huge break with this message."

"What message?"

"By wiping blood on to her handkerchief Nina has told us Kevin is hurt, perhaps hurt badly, certainly he's not well enough to be left alone so she attempted to send Juna in to hasten a rescue. That suggests hospital attention is required. Then she scouted the local landscape attempting to find something perhaps native to the area. Well what she found is rarer than she thought and she sent it to me as a message, not having paper and pen."

"She did that?"

"Yes Margo. Makes it kinda difficult to regard her as a greenhorn, doesn't it sweetie?" 

"Oh it does. I'm so ashamed I acted so jealously knowing she's won a bigger place in your heart than the slice I hold."

"I have a big heart, sweetie, just like my horses. There's plenty of room in it for you to expand; I'm your daddy, Margo. I would like it if you could love Nina like a sister."

"This is drivel," Hannah snapped. "Shouldn't you be driving out at least to the one-mile fence to ensure a faster rescue?"

"What, save one minute perhaps two minutes' flying time and then perhaps have the pilot over-shoot me? Here he can at least see the house."

"I'm sorry for snapping darling. I'm thinking of our son-in-lay out there, perhaps dying."

"Oh mommy."

"She only said perhaps Margo – be brave," Vic said.

"Oh Vic, what's your feeling?"

"Simple – Nina won't allow him to die."

"How can you be so sure?"

Vic paused then said, "Sometimes we have to draw on faith."

"Amen," Jo said as he took a phone call.

He turned to Vic. Sorry, we can't bring Nina back with us. The only chopper available with stretcher is a two-person one."

"Well, I riding out to fetch in Nina," Margo said.

Joe squeezed her affectionately saying, "Your place is at the hospital when Kevin is brought in. I have a strong feeling he's alive Margo."

"Thank you daddy."

"Anyways, Betsy has almost a half hour start on you."

"What did you tell her to do?" Hannah asked.

"Nothing – she'd been told either Kevin or Nina or both were in trouble somewhere in the south-east quadrant. She'd saddle a fresh horse and two more and ride out looking for Bella for support and head out waiting for the flight path of the chopper to give them the heading."

"And you expect them to know all that and do it?"

"They're professional cowgirls, Hannah, who fear broken backs and a lonely death but that's about all. They know what to do, believe me."

The helicopter landed, Joe climbed aboard and they were away, all inside a minute. Joe pointed the direction they should take as he put on his headset.

"Simon, is that right?"

"Yes Joe, Simon Crow. My dad was a big fan of yours."

"Is that right? Well Simon first we pick up two riders with two spare horses, and then we give them the heading to follow. They don't know what lies ahead and neither do we."

"Got that Joe."

"Good. Do we have a full load of fuel?"

"Confirmed."

They spotted Betsy and Bella leading a horse each. Joe pointed the exact course for Simon to follow and looking out his window saw Bella waving her Stetson. It was back to business. 

"Right, when we enter the area I want you to pattern search the dried water course crossways. It should be quite easy to pick up from the air by the little ribbons of finer stone and grit left behind by drying water flow."

"Confirmed."

"We will be looking for a woman attempting to be conspicuous by movement and whatever else she may think up."

"What is she dressed in?"

"Oh Christ. Brown shirt and brown riding trousers – I watched her ride out."

"Confirmed. So we watch for movement?"

"I guess so," Joe said glumly. He was looking at vast terrain that virtually looked the same – a landscape of multiple browns.

Twenty minutes later Simon said, "There she is, on your left, now straight ahead. Locate the way she's pointing."

"Good heavens, you picked her up by her white underwear?"

"I have a fetish for fancy lingerie Joe. Hers happens to be plain white by it's certainly worked for me."

"She's pointing roughly at 2 o'clock."

Simon said he'd got that and would head the rocky area beyond her.

Joe spotted something. "There's a downed horse at 11 o'clock, two hundred yards away. Ah, I can see my son. Looks bad, he's not moving. Christ he's dead, a shirt over his face."

"Probably it's there to shade his face from the sun if he's injured and she couldn't move him."

"Oh yeah. Christ, I mustn't scare myself like that. This horse has him pinned. Christ, Nina must have shot it as Kevin carries a rifle. She'll be traumatized."

"Keep calm Joe. I'll drop you off touching on top of that big flat rock. As soon as you're clear I'll lift up and lower the winch. Wrap the wire round the back legs of the carcass and I'll slew it off him; you try to lift some of the weight off the guy."

"No go, you'll have to lift the rear of the horse. My thinking is his left leg will still be in the stirrup."

"Makes sense Joe. Keep clear of the carcass as much as you can in case the wire pulls off. Lifting is no problem for this baby."

"Confirmed. Put me down Simon."

The carcass had been lifted clear by the time Nina arrived, gasping for breath.

Joe embraced her.

"You've done incredible well, Little Darling. He's breathing a little ragged but his color is quite good. I've seen cases much worse than this, although hidden injury has to be considered. I have to ask you to do two more things Little Darling. The first is to help me lift Joe on to the stretcher; it may appear terrifying being under a chopper like that but the pilot appears to be a steady guy. I trust him."

"Then I do, Joe Black. What's the second thing?"

"Wait to be retrieved. This chopper is only a two seater. I need to be back at the hospital with Margo in case things become grim."

"I understand. Let's get lifting."

Joe looked up and indicated to Simon they were ready to load the stretcher.

Joe and Nina had a great struggle with the deadweight and attempting to avoid touching the injury or having it scrapped. They appeared oblivious to the blue and white screaming helicopter and soon had Kevin strapped in. Joe doubled checked the strapping for firmness and pulled the front of the stretcher pod over Kevin's face. Joe shouted that Betsy and Bella would less than an hour away.

"Goodie, we'll have a reunion party here," she shouted back.

Joe waved and stood on the skid and as arranged Simon lifted the craft up a bit to increase the margin of safety before Joe opened the door and climbed in. Putting on the headset Joe said, "Our new passenger appears to have concussion. Backtrack to give the riders a direct line in and then off to the hospital."

"Confirmed. How's the babe in the white underwear?"

"Giggling, fucking giggling. She knows the two women coming in for her and is talking about have a reunion party before they head back home."

"She appears to be a little ripper."

"She's a cowgirl, Simon. A real cowgirl, needing only some fine-tuning!

* * *

The two riders approach.

"What's this, some kind of fashion show?" inquired Bella.

"Vomit and blood has rather killed my interest in my shirt."

"Good for you. Doesn't she look pretty, Betsy?"

"Yeah, great tits. Pity about the make-up – mostly dust and dried tears. I think she needs a beer."

"Oh Besty, Bella. I'm so glad to see you," Nina cried, bursting into tears.

The cowgirls sat on their horses, faces inscrutable as Nina exercised her right to cry.

"Finished?" asked Bella, on the flats as Nina had come down from the rocks.

Nina nodded.

Bella reached into her saddlebag and tossed Nina a can of beer.

"Do you have a comb?"

"Yes and a compact," Betsy said. "God you're sun burned. At least the heat's going from the sun now."

"No sex for you tonight with that sunburn."

"Oh I don't know – we'll probably do it standing up."

Bella and Betsy laughed and said they would be back in a few minutes. They would retrieve the saddle, bridle and anything else salvageable. 

"Are you okay to be left alone?" Betsy. Nina said yes, she knew they'd be close by.

Half an hour into the ride they heard the sound of a helicopter.

"Pilot boy is coming back to see if he can get that bra off you."

"Something's wrong, Kevin is dead," Nina moaned, becoming edgy.

"Nah, those two men would have realized you have bad sunburn and are probably close to being hydrated," Bella predicted. "You are on your way to hospital. Boy are those doctors going to rush you as well as some of the gay nurses."

"Stop teasing her Bella," Betsy snorted. "Here darling, take my shirt."

"B-but you're not wearing a bra."

"Oh, aren't I? Bella will have a lovely time licking me on the ride back,"

* * *

The pilot waved to Nina and held out the headset for her to put on. "Hi, I'm Simon. No news about our patient except he's in the best of care. Tests are continuing. You look better than expected."

"Thanks, Simon. I'm Nina. Please take me to the homestead."

"But my instructions are the hospital."

"The homestead please Simon. Be a good boy."

"Well, I can't take you anywhere against your will. The homestead it is."

Nina waved goodbye to Simon as he lifted off. She entered the house and called out to the cook-housekeeper Mrs Drake who came to the entrance hall rubbing her eyes.

"Oh, my poor child. The sun has burned you. Come, I know how to treat you. We have aloe vera cream and something to relieve the pain. I shall sponge the worst parts very softly – I have baby tissues in the store. Thank God you managed to protect your face."

"My Stetson protected me, helped by the block in my make-up cream, Mrs Drake."

"There's been quite a commotion around here while you were away, Nina. I have no idea what has happened except Mrs Black said they were rushing to the hospital – something bad had happened out on the range and Mr Kevin was hurt."

"I'll tell you about the accident in a moment Mrs Black," Nina said, as the middle aged woman, mother of three, returned with a bowl of water and tissue pads. "What do you know about Mr Black?"

"Not much, I work for Mrs Black. If you don't mind me saying so I think Mr Black is grumpy and lazy – he loves bawling out people, me included."

"Well Michelle – may I call you Michelle? I'm Nina to you, always."

"Yes Nina and you call me Michelle, always."

"Michelle, let me tell you about a man who's lost his past and is about to get it back, a man named Joe Black."

To be Continued...



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 10



THE STORY SO FAR: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who either mistook her for a hooker or an easy opportunity. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her father. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina's SUV with no destination in mind. They work on a dude guest ranch and a year later help the proprietor rebuild his computer and video business. They then decide to leave the coast and head east into traditional cattle land and look for a run-down ranch to buy to settle down while they build it up. The purchase of a run-down privately owned ranch of 63,800 acres becomes possible when Nina reveals she's the daughter of an heiress and inherited her mother's wealth. Their adventures continue while waiting to 'hand-over' day of the property. In this episode Nina is hailed as a heroine and she works to unite the Black family and to start Joe Black on the road to reclaiming his lost past.

* * * 

Nina awoke on the leather dining room sofa to find herself surrounded by smiling faces, the closest being the face of Joe Black; how on earth could he get down on his knees like that, she thought – the pain in his back and hips must be killing him.

"Vic, where's my Vic?"

"Here darling," Vic called. She focused and saw him standing between Hannah and Margo, arms around them both.

"We became caught up with whisky, celebrating news the surgeons believe the skull fracture is minor, there is no sign of infection, internal bleeding and brain bruising is minimal. They are confident Kevin will recover fully," Joe said.

Nina was on her back, dressed only in panties. Mrs Drake pushed through to cover her with a sheet.

"We all think you are a heroine, Nina," Joe said taking her hand and kissing it. "My understanding from the medics is your action in not allowing anything to touch that wound including when you had your shirt over Kevin's face and not moving him the slightest bit contributed significantly to his well-being. Wetting his lips constantly with water and resisting the urge to make him drink was also considered praiseworthy. The media is clamoring to have you and Kevin together so a media conference has been authorized for 5:30 at the hospital. Everyone at the hospital is amazed at the effort you made to attract help quickly to Kevin."

"What is the purpose of the media conference?"

"The story – the public loves a great story," Joe said.

"It will be good publicity for the hospital and great publicity for helicopter rescue without which Kevin may not have survived," Hannah said, wiping her eyes.

"Right, I like Hannah's reasoning. I'll do it."

Joe began the effort to regain his feet, Vic moving quickly to assist him.

"We are all halfway drunk," Joe said responsibly. "I'll find someone to drive us to the hospital."

"I'll drive Nina and your lot," said Mrs Drake.

"Thank you Michelle, I'd like that," Nina said.

Hannah looked at Nina then Michelle Drake without comment.

"Right folk, let's clean up and then hit the road in thirty minutes," Joe said, taking command. He turned to Nina, "You're beyond belief Nina. Please get her ready, Mrs Drake."

"Her name is Michelle," Nina said, holding Joe's gaze.

"Thank you for caring for her Michelle," Joe said, smiling. "You heard that Hannah, there's been a change around here and my thinking Nina has more changes in mind."

"As you wish, thank you for attending to our heroine so well Michelle."

"Thank you Mrs Black."

"It's Hannah, please. How is your family?"

Margo stepped forward and kissed Nina every so softly on the forehead. "Thank you for saving Kevin."

Nina grinned. "Don't miss the point, Margo – it was a team effort. I don't know who decided not to throw away the dried plant but I guess that saved a couple of hours minimum."

"Betsy," Joe said.

"And you Joe, for referring the plant to me."

"Me Hannah? It was you who identified it and knew where it might have survived."

"See Margo, a team effort," Nina smiled. "Then there's the helicopter dispatcher, the pilot and the medics. A beautifully functioning team effort I do declare."

"Agreed to a point Nina," Joe said. "But it was you – your enterprise and focus that was the centre of this fantastic resuce. Margo and I believe without you being there the chopper would have brought back a body."

"I believe that too," Hannah said, placing an arm around Joe's waist.

"Me too, as I have been told the story first hand," said Michelle.

"Oh this is too gooey for me," Nina giggled. "It's much like the end of a sentimental old-type Western. Where's Trigger?"

Only Vic laughed.

"Oops. I have nothing against Trigger's memory or old Westerns."

The other faces looking at her relaxed.

"And I've greatly relieved Kevin appears okay."

"Ease up, Nina, you've done fine," Joe said. "We folk in these parts have high regard for Trigger and old Western movies."

"Of course."

* * *

Kevin sitting up in bed with a heavily bandaged head greeted Nina with open arms and everyone but hospital personnel instructed her how she should rest lightly against Kevin as they told their story.

"Margo?" asked Nina, apprehensive of being made to cuddle in against Margo's husband.

"It's fine Nina, just go with the flow."

A media circus eventuated in the race to record and edit interviews for the evening news and radio and news programs and next morning's newspaper reports.

Nina smiled with delight when a TV crew took Joe Black aside to film a clip. Everyone was slapping him on the back, even asking for autographs.

Michelle raced everyone back to watch the TV news. The second-rate station's presentation was superior to the very basic presentation of the prime news station but at the conclusion of prime news the news reader announced that the news documentary scheduled at 9:00 that evening would be screened at a later date. In its place would be a news backgrounder being taken up by the national network "describing in detail the amazing rescue today in ranch badlands when a courageous young woman sent back a rare weed tied to her horse. That ingenious action brought the legendary former rodeo champion Joe Black to the rescue with pin-point accuracy, saving a life of an injured Australian cowboy."

"That's impossible, snorted Joe. All they filmed was at the hospital." His phone went and he answered, the others not being able to hear the person calling him:

"Really – why?"

"When?"

"Who authorized it?"

"No, of course I'm not mad at you – it was your call."

"Right, I agree. You arrange that with Michelle."

"Who's Michelle? Ooops, orry – Mrs Michelle Drake."

"Right Bella, we'll be there by 8:50. Save us the best seats in the house – six of us counting Michelle."

Joe told the people watching TV: "That was Bella. She and Betsy have organized everyone on the ranch including guests to assemble in the main bunkhouse by 8:45 to watch the doco. Apparently two film crews were out here filming on the ground and by chopper. The word is Juna is likely to be nominated for the Horse Hall of Fame. I've authorized Bella to set up a bar under your supervision Michelle. Just rustle up some cold food for us and then you'll be free to support Bella and Betsy. Damn, I'm sorry those two are going."

"Going, going where?" Nina asked.

"They're working till the middle of next month. Kevin doesn't like gay women and those two don't like Kevin."

"It will be different now," Margo urged. "Betsy is a heroine."

"Where are they going," Nina asked, bottom lip trembling.

"They're still looking."

"Change their minds daddy," Margo sobbed.

"I could swing Betsy around, but not Bella. Bella don't take shit from no-one – you know that Margo. I was practically crying before I could persuade her to finish out the month."

Nina looked at Vic knowing if it was a signal for sex he'd be tuned in absolutely. But this?

Vic nodded back and winked.

"They're coming to work for us," Nina said firmly. "They can stay at the hotel if Kate won't have them. I can't see Kate missing an opportunity to host two real cowgirls for a fortnight. Bella will ensure Shaun proves to be a gallant husband and pulls his weight to support Kate as wedding venue hostess."

"Oh Nina and Vic – that is a magnificent gesture but it will upset your plans," Joe said with real concern.

"Oh now way," Nina said. "It just means we hit the gas pedal sooner that expected. I'm all for that."

"Do you think you can handle Bella?" Joe asked.

"I've observed you – give her instructions then get out of the way; if there are complaints about her, disappear into town."

Joe grinned and Hannah looked at Nina with even more respect that before. She told Joe to let Nina break the news to the girls – "Though do it before they become drunk Nina."

Joe led his party in just before 9:00 and we met with not quite the welcome they expected. 

"Where's Nina?" called somebody."

"She's decided to slip in after the lights are turned down," Joe answered. "She's embarrassed by all this fuss."

Some of the guests began chanting, "We want Nina; we want Nina."

"I'll fetch her boss," Bella grinned, people parting nervously as she walked through them. "Take your seats, we don't want to miss the show," she growled. Everyone headed for the seats, carrying their drinks.

A minute later Bella came into the hall with a beautifully formed woman but only half her size.

Everyone stood and clapped and Bella proudly marched Nina to the front row and sat Nina between Joe and Hannah.

"Thank you everyone for coming," Betsy said, emerging from behind curtains and looking at her watch. "We have the loan of a giant screen so people at the back will see everything. This has been a great day for this ranch, the heroic rescue of Joe and Hannah Black's son Kevin Hazelwood. We're told the program we are about to see is being beamed to his homeland of Australia. You are about to see a real life Western – I know because I worked much of afternoon with the scriptwriter and the narrator. The program stars are Joe Black and Nina Raymond. I'll let the film tell the story. Dim the lights more, Bella."

Nina wriggled in acute embarrassment, heating her sunburn, when the title 'Nina Wannabe Cowgirl' screened to the tune of 'Red River Valley'.

A guy in full cowboy regalia rode on a Palomino into shot in a lush green valley, entered the stream and stop midway; the camera remained fixed on him.

"Ohmigod, look at that horse," Nina heard Vic exclaim.

"Hi, I'm Roddy Westerman riding O'Mar. This and the scene behind me is how many folk visualize the cowboy tradition. Yep, some ranch land is lush but tonight we see it's not all sweet wine and roses. It can be really tough out there with cowboys going where even highly focused dudes debate whether to follow or if they do decide to venture they first pray for their survival. But let's have Nina's story...

The film introduced Nina, showing her stepping out of the SUV outside the hospital, the camera positioned on the roof. It zoomed in.

Roddy's narration began: "This is Nina Raymond, twenty-two, who took to the road after her widowed father died just over a year back. A guy Vic Haig traveling with her after having saved her from being roughed up or worse by a couple of drunks. Nina and Vic were without family ties and romantic gravitation seemed inevitable; that has proven to be aa they've fallen in love and marry at the end of next month."

"Watch Nina – who's a little wobbly on those high heels because she's become addicted to cowgirl boots. The textured cotton dress is hurting her because she's very sunburned beneath and we'll tell you why later. She's beautiful isn't she. Always wears sun protection on her face when out riding, her Stetson worn low. The tall guy is her lover Vic, the other young woman is the near-widow Margo with her mother Hannah, the family's cook-housekeeper Mrs Drake and we zoom right in on to her famous father, former rodeo champion Joe Black who runs a very successful dude ranch, scene of today's drama.

"We switch to a close of cowgirl Betsy Rivers and really right in to focus on those strands of dry weed in Betsy's hand. Victim Kevin Hazelwood – a tough horseman and ranch manager from Australia's Northern Territory – owes his life to this plant. This is Kevin – looking to be recovering well and look at his teeth flash as her sees the angel walking towards him, all smiles – Nina, the wannabe cowgirl who saved him from certain death out there in the badlands."

"If you believe badlands on a ranch are a myth, take a look at this. It's near-desert and now as our chopper flies lower you can see very rocky badlands. That's the remains of Kevin's horse. Kevin and horse were tossed by a bull weighting more than 2000 pounds, the horse crashing itself and Kevin against rocks, Kevin suffering a fractured skull and multiple body lacerations, the horse broke both front legs."

A clip showed fifty or more large bulls scattering as the helicoper zeroed in on them.

The narrator condinued: "Fortunately Kevin carries a replica model of a cowboy carbine. Still conscious, his brain yet to temporarily shut down, Kevin ask Nina to shoot the horse and try not to shoot him as his left leg was pinned right under it somewhere. Nina who'd never fired a gun shot the horse, releasing it from terrible agony. Nina cried, but only because she'd just shot a beautiful horse. Here they were, a two and a half hours to three hour ride from the homestead in the badlands, one horse, two people one of whom was trapped and now unconscious. No telephone connection and they had no radio. So where was help? Here were are looking at their best chance, Nina wannabe cowgirl, coming from the hospital, crying in relief that her ordeal is over and held by Kevin's wife Margo who thinks heroine is too inadequate to describe Nina's great feat today." 

The narration continued along that style and the film ended with a fade-out of Joe Black winning his final title and being acclaimed as everyone's hero.

* * *

During the next few days Vic scarcely saw Nina during daylight hours – she was mostly out riding with either Betsy or Bella or both. The cowgirls were thrilled to be heading for a couple of weeks with Kate, attending the wedding and three days later beginning work on Haig Ranch.

Margo and Vic had become friendly and watching them interact Nina sighed and thought, give them time and they will succumb. Hannah had been taking Margo in most days to sit with Kevin for an hour, to go for a long lunch with Margo and then leave her back with Kevin for another hour. Vic substituted for Hannah one day when she went to lunch with a group of women and again the second-last day before he and Nina headed home.

It began innocently. Kevin picked up Margo to take her to lunch and realized she was looking at him doe-eyed.

"You've been so kind working between me and daddy; I really feel he's relating to me again like daddy of old."

"I wouldn't know, but I've seen change occurring within you."

"I had to act, he's besotted with Nina."

Vic laughed: "Once a ladies' man, always a ladies' man."

"He wishes Nina was his daughter."

"Well, we're away to tomorrow – you'll then have free range."

Margo sighed and said she'd do her best to truly bond with her parents. "But enough of this – let's book into a motel?"

"Why."

"I've seen you looking at me."

"Can't a cat look at a queen?"

"Not with that sort of look. I'm missing that sort of attention."

Vic asked her was she certain. She said very certain and directed him to a motel she knew had an hourly room rate if one offered payment with a wink.

The clerk saw the wink. "I'll just zap your card," she smiled. "Just notify me when you leave and you'll be billed the hourly rate."

"Hello Margo – I saw you on TV. I trust your husband is improving satisfactory."

"Coming along nicely, thank you Linda. You won't recall ever seeing me here, will you?"

"Good heaven's no. We have no desire to lose our reputation as being a reputable comfort stop. Enjoy."

They entered the room and Margo seized Vic and kissed him deeply. "We have almost two hours – just do it lovingly and slowly Vic."

"That's fine with me – I don't wish Nina to find me under powered."

Margo said if he had misgivings he could walk now with no hard feelings.

"No, I'm fine," he said, slapping Margo's butt. She squealed happily, throwing her carry-bag on the floor.

"Change of clothes – smart girl; you left the ranch with this in mind?"

She just grinned and began unbuckling Vic's belt, licking her lips. An hour later, after going very slowly, Margo mounted Vic in reverse cowgirl position and went for gold, sweating herself into a satisfying climax that left her almost in a faint.

Margo went out to her father's SUV while Vic went to notify Linda they were away.

"She's smart bringing a complete change of clothes," Linda said.

Without thinking Vic commented: "Margo must have done this before."

"That's not a gentlemanly thing to say," Linda smiled. "Come back anytime you wish – preferably without Margo. Just give me a call if you'd like new company."

"I'll remember that – what a great offer."

After dinner that night Margo said she was off to bed with a good book, knowing that the other two couples had business to discuss.

Vic addressed Joe and Hannah. "You've confirmed before dinner you're closing the guest operation three months from now. Nina and I are interested in taking eighteen of your best cabins."

Hannah asked if it would be worth it, what with the high cost of transport. Vic said yes but that depended on purchase price. He'd measured up and been in to see Nixon Haulage and Peter Nixon had said they could haul two units at a time on truck and trailer and had given Vic an estimated cost per haul including pilot vehicles.

"We are prepared to offer $20,000 per cabin," Nina said. "If you can get more that fine, we'll understand. On site they are worth much more than that."

Hannah excused herself and went over to Joe and whispered to him. She returned to her chair and said, "Joe and I agree you select the cabins you wish to take. You'll be busy so we'll arrange delivery at this end. You will have plenty of time to secure the approval of all authorities for your guest development – a month from date of filing application should be tops if it's similar to this county. Nixon Haulage can then unload straight on to the concrete pad for each cabin. Now this is non-negotiable – the only price we'll accept is $10,000 a cabin. After what you have done for this family Nina we feel mean asking for money but agree the money received should go to Margo and Kevin as they now have a half share in everything here."

"Not negotiable?" Vic queried.

"Yes, absolutely," Joe said. "Furthermore, Hannah and I have been talking about retiring to The Town and once we look over your ranch and development plans we could be interested in being invited to buy into the project."

"We'd love that, wouldn't we Vic?"

"Sure as night follows day," Vic responded. "We're aiming to provide facilities, services and adventures that will earn the Haig Guest Rancher operation five-star rating and we'll run at 80-percent plus occupancy. Advice we've been given says 'word of mouth from satisfied guests' will keep our accommodation full."

"That's what to aim for, but don't expect to get there overnight," Hannah said excitedly. "Market hard, polish your facilities and deliver great value for money. Everything else will take care of itself."

"My advice is keep the enthusiasm going, keep everything up to scratch and don't over-expect – guest and dude ranch facilities are becoming a dime a dozen," Joe said.




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 10



"Thanks for the advice, guys," Nina smiled. "You guys already have an investment in us – you gave us great management experience. Now it's over to us."

Late next morning Joe, Hannah and Nina went to the hospital lounge as Kevin was up and walking and due to be assessed that afternoon to determine when he might be discharged. Margo and Vic had gone off to fetch something at Robertshaw, the local town. They collected a big heavy package from a freight depot. Kevin loaded it in Nina's SUV.

"Don't get excited," Margo said kissing him gently. "You've had your reward. It's a painting for Nina – Kevin put up half the money and mom and dad contributed the remainder."

"Then it's not a print?"

"Oh no, it's not a print. I purchased it off the web from a southern gallery. Here take this and don't let Nina know. It's the documentation and insurance receipt. The painting is insured for $130,000. If you incorporate the insurance under your domestic policies you ought to get a reduction in annual premium."

"Jesus – many people live in houses and apartments that don't cost $130,000."

"We think that's a small amount to pay in honor of what Nina did to save my Kevin's life."

"Yeah, right. What price life?"

"We'll never answer that," Margo aid. "Thank you for my beautiful seduction. I'd like you to know that it's the only time I've strayed since my marriage and it was worth it, if only to find that Kevin measures up in all respects. Tension between me and mom and dad has all but disappeared – Nina contributed to easing that but it really was you who swung dad back to re-connect with me. I'll never forget that nor forget Nina. Never."

In the hospital lounge Margo made a small speech following by Kevin and Hannah. 

Margo motioned to Vic who went to the doorway and beckoned in two male nurses who pushed in a lecture room easel mounted on wheels. The rectangular object on it, covered in bed sheet, faced Nina and appeared to be a blackboard. Margo and Kevin went to either end and unveiled the oil painting called 'The Cowgirl'.

"It's magnificent, Nina breathed. Is this for me?"

"Yes, from mom, dad and especially Kevin," Margo beamed. "It's very old, believed to have been painted between 1900 and perhaps 1910. It was purchased by the gallery from an estate and the signature of J.B. Meadows has been authenticated. He was an itinerant English artist in this country during that period. The artists' biography is taped to the back of the painting."

The background was indistinct, the entire focus on the rider, with the paint pony in a foot of water drinking. The woman was perhaps about thirty and wore a dirty white Stetson, cowboy shirt, black skirt and black boots with a leg hooked over her saddle horn and looking at a small bunch of wildflowers in her hand.

"Oh thank you, thank you," Nina said, walking up and kissing the family. Standing beside Vic she said, "I shall treasure this for the rest of my life. I feel the spirit of this woman. I just adore it."

The painting was rewrapped in its transportation packaging and Nina and Vic departed to an emotional farewell, everyone talking excitedly about being reunited again for the wedding. The farewell between Nina and Joe was poignant but was outshone as a tearjerker of the goodbye between Kevin and Nina; Kevin hugged her intensely and had difficulty letting go of her. "Our daughter will be called Nina. It's Margo's idea and I am wildly in favor."

"Grand-daughter?" Hannah asked, wide-eyed.

"Yes, I'm six weeks on and everything is fine. In my heart I know it will be a girl, mom."

Tears and congratulations followed.

* * * 

"Well, what a long farewell but a beautiful, moving one," Nina yawned. "I want our first baby to be a girl."

"I wonder why that's no surprise to me. Stop taking your protection and I'll do my best."

"I want Kate to become pregnant first. You know that."

"Okay, you call the shots and I'll fire them."

They kissed happily. Nina became even happier when Vic said he was absolutely taken by the painting.

"There's already an alcove for a painting above the main fireplace – it may need to be made bigger."

"What alcove, what fireplace?"

Vic realized his goof. "Oh, it's just a sketch of a modern Western-style house that's floating around my mind." Well, that was true.

"We should start talking about the house. We need that sorted before we can properly plan the guest rancher operation."

"Leave it love, just after the wedding will be fine. We don't need to rush into everything.

"Oh, I forget – have you asked Shaun to be your best man yet?" she asked.

"Yes, it's all sorted."

Six hours later they entered The Town. "Stop Vic – reverse about fifty feet – we need to read that billboard.

The sign stated: 'This is an advance notice of the celebrity wedding of Prominent Cowgirl of TV fame, Nina Raymond to Victor Haig at the end of this month coinciding with the triumphant return of The Town's famous son, the legendary Joe Black, Joe is a former national rodeo multiple championship winner. Nina's wedding followed by Joe Black's welcome home will be celebrated at the Dome on Friday the 29th. A sell-out crowd is expected so reserve seats with $10 donations now! Nett proceeds will go to the Emergency and Welfare Fund of the organizers, the Ladies Town Luncheon Club.'

"They've got it wrong, it's next month, not this month, and it's a confirmation wedding at the Dome, not THE wedding."

"That's splitting hairs and anyways, it is this month – it's the 1st today."

"Oh God," Nina cried, "The wedding. So much to do, so little time to do it."

"There's very little to do," Vic smiled. "Kate has sent out invitations to the wedding at her house – she discussed the list with you."

"Oh yes, right. I thought I was to send out the invitations?" She received no reply, Vic wanting to keep the pressure off her.

Vic said on the coming Friday they were flying to the city to choose their clothes for the wedding. "You said you wanted traditional cowgirl, so you'll get the right fits straight off the racks. I reckon we choose black."

"White. Are you going cowboy as well?"

"Yes, we may as well establish our identity of who we think we are. Black."

"Victor Haig. Unless it's predominately white I'm keeping my legs crossed."

"White's fine by me Nina. We'll look great in white. Black trim for me." We'll put Joe in the same outfit – Hannah gave me his measurements."

"Will it be a charter flight?"

"No, there's a regular Friday shopper's flight, I've checked. Margo is paying for the flights and our wedding outfits as her thank you for you saving Kevin."

"Oh what a lovely gesture," Nina said, bursting into tears.

"Come on. You are over-wrought. On to the hotel – that was nice of them keeping our suite and not charging us, saying it was a quiet time of the year for them. I'll order you dinner in bed. No sex for you tonight unless you calm down."

"Yes dear."

* * *

Vic sat in the bar and sat in front of a beer, thinking. One month to go. Nina – incredibly brave Nina – was flirting with meltdown judging by her behavior this evening. He'd not expected this; neither of them could afford to hit a speed wobble as they wed in a small house and then to be thrust under the spotlight for their wedding re-enanctment and for Nina to be acclaimed locally for her bravery. 

He know accepted a big crowed would be there. People had two celebrities to honor - Joy Black and Nina. The population of The Town was just over 18,000 and the Dome seated almost 30,000 and it was filled with people arriving from the hinterland for big events like night regional rodeo, regional football final, the annual interdenominational religious revival gospel convention and an occasional visit by a rock super-star. At least that's what Shaun had told him.

Shaun had also said "Who'd turn out to see you guys get married for the second time within an hour? Nobody but Kate and I know you, although some women would roll up being suckers for a wedding. And Joe Black – at least a third of the population weren't alive when he had his last big rodeo ride and another third are so old they don't attend big events any more. Of the third left, perhaps 20 percent will be women who used to think they were in love with Joe Black so their husband's won't want them to go and the husbands won't go without their wives, some people will be sick or out of town or unable to take time off work, so think of those thousands and thousands of empty seats."

Who to believe? Kate reckoned the Dome would be unable to satisfy the demand for seats. Nina was an overnight sensation because of her ingenious initiative in the rescue of Kevin Hazelwood but the combined event would be held a month after that dramatic rescue. Did most people have memories that long? Ask anyone over the age of thirty what they watched on TV the previous night and they struggle to remember with a few even not sure whether they have TV.

Well, does it matter? Vic thought, turning away a woman who enquired whether he wanted to buy her a drink. His bottle was empty so he held it up to be replaced. The bartender wobbled her surgically enhanced breasts as she opened his beer in front of him and smiled; an opportunity for a test.

"Are you going to the Dome at the end of the month to see Joe Black?"

"Who's Joe Black?" asked the thirty-something.

Well, well, Vic thought. Here's a woman working in an environment of hot gossip and she doesn't know of Joe Black. 

"Every-one I know is going to the Dome late this month to see Nina Raymond marry some bloke."

That shocked Vic. So he tossed her another question to trip her up. "Who's Nina Raymond?"

"Where have you been – on a trip to the Moon? Nina Raymond is the greatest cowgirl alive today. Listen to the talk, buddy, and radio and the papers are full of it. There's even a rumor that she will be nominated for the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame."

As the woman carted her over-size top to the other side of the bar Vic placed his hands in his face and groaned, "How will Nina be able to handle this?"

Three bottles of beer later Vic had decided he must accept that Nina was the best thing in his life and that he should be faithful to her and excel at being a great business partner. Neither of those commitments should be too difficult to maintain provided he could resist these other women who wanted him. Of course he had the obligation to Kate and there was no way he could give up Leigh.

A hand momentarily touched the back of his neck and a husky voice said, "Hullo Mr Haig."

"Oh hi, Britney. You're looking glamorous."

"Yes, just back from a cocktail party where I was a hostess. I guess Nina is back and is asleep, exhausted?"

Vic said she was right about that.

"Well, I guess I'll see her in the morning when I'm waiting tables. Well, goodnight Mr Haig...unless...We are prohibited from drinking with guests in the bar. Would you care to join me for a drink in my room?"

"I better stay here, although your invitation is very tempting Britney."

"I could make a visit very worthwhile."

"Why this sudden focus on me, Britney?"

"You're the fiancé of the famous Nina Raymond. I would be honored if you do to me what you do to Nina."

"I'm about to be married, Britney; I cannot blot my copybook."

"That's sad, oh so sad, Mr Haig. Good night."

Vic sighed as he watched Britney walk away not even thinking 'Nice ass'. His problem was he had too much time on his hands; the sooner he was buried in work the better. Working on Kate's house had sharpened him up a little as had riding on the Black's ranch.

An alarm sounded in his brain – house...birthday...Leigh. He slapped his forehead hard. Damn – he'd forgotten to go to Leigh's for lunch on Monday of last week; how could he have been so forgetful. Although he'd been working on Kate's house he could have slipped away for a couple of hours under the cover of any flimsy explanation.

He called Leigh, thinking she could be home now, or picking up her two kids from her mother's home. Dean answered, saying "Leigh's phone."

"Hi Dean, it's Vic."

"Vic!" So you two are back. We saw the news item about Nina's brilliant feat in rescuing that guy and then the documentary later that evening. Wow, what a babe. What she did stretches the imagination."

"You're so right Dean, I'm very proud of her."

"And so you should be. By the way, thanks for the wedding invitation and making Leigh part of the wedding party. I know she became your first friend after you arrived here. Look, you'll need to be stocking up when you take over Hunger Ranch. I'm a bit overstocked to be going into late autumn so could let you have fifty head from the herd I would be culling from – you can pick the ones you want at the fair price per head we agree on beforehand."

"Thank you Dean – I'll take you up on that; it's very neighborly of you."

"Good – here's Leigh coming in from checking on her horses now; I have the kids in the bath and dinner under way. Catch you later."

"Hello Vic, husband of the famous Nina. We thought she acted wonderfully and fully deserved the media attention she received. She's the resourceful type of woman to have beside you on a ranch. How's Joe Black?"

"Fine. Look Leigh, I'm calling with an apology and to tell the truth. I simply forgot to be with you for lunch Monday week ago."

"Forgot? Well, that's a novel excuse, almost believable."

"I was working on Kate Lovett's house extensions while she was giving Nina advance riding instruction. I was head down banging away and time just flew."

"Banging away - how interesting?"

Vic heard that comment with relief; it didn't appear he was going to be put over the rack. He laughed. "With a hammer."

"I just assumed something more important than lunch with me came up. Women in my position have to learn to understand exactly what that position means."

Vic felt humbled. Leigh was behaving magnificently under the circumstances; she'd chosen the option of letting him off the hook.

"I am truly sorry Leigh."

"Accepted, I can hear it in your voice. I'll take the tray liner to the office; you may call to pick it up any time you wish but call first."

Vic had an idea. "Look, bring it with you tomorrow night. Tomorrow is my birthday. Come with Dean to the hotel at 7:00 for a drink with Nina and me and I'll also invite the Lovett's and then I'll take you all out for dinner. Please say yes."

"Just a moment."

Vic stared dully at his beer bottle until Leigh was back at his ear saying yes, that Dean looked forward to the occasion.

"Leigh, you have melted my shame."

She giggled and said goodnight.

To be Continued.



Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 11



THE CONCLUSION: Twice divorced, unemployed computer technician Victor Haig is searching for a real soul mate when he rescues Nina Raymond from two louts who either mistook her for a hooker or an easy opportunity. Nina (20) admits to 37-year old Vic she's sexually inexperienced. He learns the young woman has been abused sexually by the few men in her life including her father. They leave town, taking to the road in Nina's SUV with no destination in mind. They work on a dude guest ranch and a year later help the proprietor rebuild his computer and video business. After three months they leave the coast and head east into real cattle land and look for a run-down ranch to buy and build up. The purchase of a run-down privately owned ranch of 63,800 acres becomes possible when Nina reveals she's the daughter of an heiress and inherited her mother's wealth. Their adventures continue while waiting to 'hand-over' day of the property. In this final episode Nina and Vic marry, in style.

* * * 

Returning to the suite the previous evening Vic had found Nina deeply asleep so went out and dined on two hamburgers. He joined Nina in bed, taking care not to disturb her and wondering what his other woman, Leigh, was doing or thinking right now.

Vic awoke in the morning – the room flooded in sunlight – with Nina straddled over him singing 'Happy Birthday'. He grinned, greeted her warmly and tentatively licked at the freshly showered vulva that was positioned just on the limit of tongue reach. Nina went "Oooh" and thrust it forward into perfect position, moaning in soft delight as Vic's tongue worked into lapping rhythm. After that Nina gave Vic the treatment in her favorite position – Cowgirl. She watched as she lit up birthday boy's face.

No tangible present was offered.

Vic succeeded in not allowing his disappointment to show and they went down to breakfast, hand-in-hand. Britney rushed over and said happily, "You're back, what a wonderful surprise."

Vic rolled his eyes thinking yet another instance of a deceptive woman – Britney learned last night they were back. He watched Nina step forward and hug Britney and actually kiss her.

When seated Vic said, "I was surprised at your emotional reunion with our table waitress."

"Oh yes, and why's that?"

"A table waitress?"

"Just because she doesn't have partnership status in a real estate company doesn't mean she's nobody. Leigh became your first friend on our arrival and Britney was the first person to make me feel welcome and our relationship has continued to meander."

"Meander?"

"Going nowhere at present. You may have noticed she is my own age." "Meaning?"

"We could become girlfriends but not of the kind that stirs you sex-saturated mind."

Vic let that rev-up fly over his head. "Oh. Does she have a guy?"

"Why are you interested in that?"

"I was thinking if you like her so much then invite her and the boyfriend to our wedding."

Nina flushed and placing her hand on Vic's arm and said that was a lovely thought – she'd write the invitation before they went out.

Britney returned to their table with the coffee pot.

Nina smiled and asked, "Have I seen you with a guy Britney?"

Vic admired the phrasing of that question – so um clever.

"I don't think so. His name is Justin and he's away completing an MBA. He comes home every second or third weekend to see his parents – and me of course."

"What does his father do?" Vic asked.

"His father is city planner and my father is public works director – we met through their connection. My mother is a city commissioner while his mother heads the city legal department so we as families are very much into city administration."

Vic scratched his had. "City, I thought this was a town?" 

Britney laughed and asked what did it matter? "This place has been called The Town for as long as older residents can remember but its status is 'city' albeit a small one."

"A city without real identity," Vic offered. 

Britney laughed and said, "Try telling that to the three city commissioners, the Historical Society and especially the all-powerful Ladies Town Club."

That final comment provoked Vic. "What, that little outfit – it has no mandate so no power, surely?"

"Excuse me," Britney said, losing her smile, "My mother is a member and takes the club very seriously. At least half the women in this county are paid up members of the club. You wait till the end of the month when that parade is held – many women will march under the Ladies Town Club banner – it will easily be the largest section in the parade and all dressed in their formal attire of black hats, white shirts – I think older women call them blouses – black skirts and black boots. They look quite a sight – their uniform links back to Suffragette days."

"How fascinating, how does one become a member?" Nina asked.

"In earlier days one had to be adjudged a lady but today if you are female, aged at least twenty-one and can afford the $10 annual subscription, membership is assured. But don't bother joining – you soon will be inducted as an honorary life member for bringing distinction to the women of this town."

"By why, the service I performed was several hundred miles away from here?" 

"Nina, your place of residence on TV was given as this hotel. The owners of this establishment will honor your connection with them on your wedding night. Dignitaries will move from the Dome to this hotel for a grand dinner beginning with cocktails at 5:00; this event will combine as your official wedding breakfast."

"My wedding, what is happening to my wedding?"

"All's well, Nina; please relax. We have time the Street Parade for noon and put your wedding back to 9:00 to allow you and your small group to have a proper intimate wedding and enjoy a brunch before the wedding party leaves to prepare for the parade."

"We? Are you involved?"

"Oh yes, I'm chief executive of the Ladies Town Club."

Vic thought this was becoming ridiculous, taking on a rolling snowball effect, and obviously it was rattling Nina.

"Why wasn't I consulted about this interference to my wedding plans?"

"Oh Nina, please be fair. This was going on while you were away becoming a national heroine and coping with the aftermath."

"Well, why wasn't I informed when I arrived back here last night?"

Glancing at Vic, Britney said, "When I found you were back in town I was reliably informed by staff who turn down beds at evening that you were in bed, exhausted and asleep. When you return to your suite you will find a folder from my office detailing everything, apologizing for changing the previously approved schedule, mentioning I'd consulted Kate who approved of the changes but that she emphasized she could not speak for you. I attempted to do my best."

"Of course you have," Nina smiled thinly. "I'm sorry. Although recovered from fatigue I'm a little edgy. I guess it really doesn't matter that this whole business is out of control – at least I'll have my real wedding and will be legally married."

"I'll promise – the club will not interfere any further with your arrangements with Kate Love. Oh, included in my folder in your room is an invitation for you to fly out by helicopter at 8:00 that evening to Mansville where we have another hotel. It's a lovely hotel and you'll be out of the limelight there. The owners are arranging this at no cost to you, with our compliments."

"Who are the owners?"

"My parents, Nina. They think you are simply wonderful."

As Britney walked away Nina caught the look on Vic's face. "Why are you grinning like that?"

"Don't you see darling – our development proposals are now assured of being fast-tracked – mummy is a commissioner, daddy is city works director and his buddy, father of Britney's boyfriend, is city planner."

"Vic, I would be far more impressed if you sympathized with me about all this interference with my wedding. It's becoming a circus."

Before he could answer, Nina's phone went. Vic heard her say after the usual pleasantries, "At 11:00 then. We'll be there Kate. By the way, can you and Shaun come to the birthday celebration this evening – just a wee group of us? Oh great – casual dress will be fine. Bye."

"Kate's invited us to lunch but wants us there at 11:00. That's okay isn't it?"

Vic nodded.

"Now, where were we?"

"You were saying how excited you are that your real wedding retains its intimacy."

Nina eyed him, knowing that wasn't correct but the fact was indisputable. She smiled and said, "Teasing and subterfuge are in your nature, aren't they?"

Vic scratched his head and remaining straight-faced. "I have no idea what you are talking about. Good, here comes breakfast."

After breakfast Nina went shopping till 10:00 so Vic had an hour and a half to fill so he went up to the roof-top; it was deserted. His phone went.

"Hi."

"Hi. I'm just calling to say have a relaxing day and I'll see you any time soon. Everything okay for you and Nina?"

"Yep, her nerves are on edge but she's still laughing and being nice to me."

Leigh said that was good; Nina would be looking at him for support."

"Are you busy, Leigh?"

"I have a diary pretty well filled up."

"What about me filling you up?"

Vic heard her lungs near empty and new breath being sucked in. 

"I could be tempted."

Vic said the window of opportunity was now as he, too, had a full day.

"Where?"

"On the hotel rooftop. I'm here alone."

"It's far too open. Remember our motto, "Don't get caught."

"We have a sauna up here, lockable from the inside."

Leigh laughed and said how cozy; she was on her way.

Fifteen minutes later Vic had her stripped and with her heavy tits in both hands was working her nipples enthusiastically while Leigh was fingering herself and ended by smacking just above her clit with some firm slaps.

"Here lover boy," she said, handing him something she'd taken from her handbag. She climbed on to the second of three level seats, resting her chin and tits on the level above while Vic read the label: "Excitable Lube."

He didn't have to ask, Leigh was spreading her ass cheeks. Like a whore, he thought. But she's doing this for me, so what does that make me? Even worst I'd say. She and I are made for one another, cheats and selfish, residents of the sewer.

With that inexplicable moment of guilt fading fast from top memory he grabbed one of her hands and squeezed a very large dollop on to her fingers to keep her busy while he coated his very ready cock. He shoved it into her, plunging in and out four or five times. Both when together like their sex rough and ready, because one stimulates the other. They each had a partner to explore sex sensitively and sedately.

"Wrong hole, silly," she hissed, having lubed and opened up with two fingers and now the third was squeezing to join its two companions. 

He pulled out dripping and lubed up again.

"Have you done this much?" she simpered.

"Years ago, a couple of times on my first honeymoon. And you?"

"I suppose you are wondering if I've been with my horse, and that's why I ride a stallion?"

"Would I think that?"

"Possibly, but my husband also exercises a fetish very occasionally."

"You said also?"

"Oh did I? That could mean a number of things."

"I guess so – coming to get you."

She giggled.

Gawd, she was tight, Vic groaned, feeling as if his dick had been run over by a truck. Obviously a horse had not been visiting and hubby must be on the small side.

He pushed, halted and smacked both sides of her butt. She moaned and slumped and that allowed him to push in quite some distance. 

"No need to go all the way," panted his consultant. "I'm experiencing huge feeling. Come right out after a few thrusts and you'll find plenty of sensations to set those big balls of yours into motion."

"Love you talking to me like this," Vic grinned. He slapped her right butt and she groaned, "I've just come over my fingers." 

Later she squeezed Vic internally with muscles and finally got him off powerfully. Although he soldiered on to produce her climax the attempt was unsuccessfully.

He was disappointed but giving him a tit to suck like a dummy, Leigh told him not to worry, that she'd only ever had two anal ejaculations after infrequent anal encounters over more than ten years. "The important thing is that I've gotten you a good backdoor experience. Happy birthday."

"What a great friend you are," Vic said, putting Leigh into the elevator and pressing the button. "See you tomorrow, lovely lady."

"Bye handsome," she said, waving her fingers at him cutely. It had been the first time he'd ever seen anyone other than himself put a finger up a woman's ass; Leigh had three up hers. Little wonder he'd shot such a huge load into her back passage.

* * * 

On time at 11:00, Vic and Nina arrived at the Love's house and Nina said Kate would be down at the barn.

"How do you know that?"

"Because women know a lot of things men don't."

They arrived at the barn where there was no sign of Kate.

"Wait here," Nina said, looking so excited with her chest puffed up that Vic thought she was in danger of popping her shirt buttons.

Kate emerged from the barn and picked up a camera from the top of a post.

"Vic, go to the entrance and say hello." 

Anything to amuse the ladies thought Vic moving forward and found himself looking at the magnificent head of a Palomino. He choked "Hello", thinking the horse was very close to being fifteen hands high.

"Happy birthday and happy wedding, darling," Nina said taking his hand. "Isn't he a beauty; it's the first time I've seen him."

"He's mine?" Vic mumbled, oblivious to the camera flashlight.

"Yes darling. You are to lead the street parade, flanked by me on Juna – she's being brought across for me by Joe Black; Kevin will be on the other side of you. His surgeon has agreed him riding at a walk but Kevin must wear a helmet. You're being given Kingston Nobel Arc early to become buddies and to ride him through the streets a couple of times to get King used street noise and activity."

"Wow, thank you darling this is...this is so special."

"I know, take him for a walk."

"How old is he?"

"Three."

"I see."

That puzzled Nina; she asked what did that mean. She blushed when Vic said, "Me on my Palomino riding ahead of two children, eh?"

"Nina and I are going to the house, Vic," Kate smiled. "You need time alone with your new buddy."

As they left, Vic heard Kate say to Nina those two would look great together. Vic agreed with that, absolutely.

He and Nina returned to Kate's ranch a couple of days later to be there for the arrival of Bella and Betsy who enjoyed the reunion but were a little shy of Kate until the conversation switched to horses. Kate showed them to their rooms and left them to settle in. Betsy appeared a few minutes later and asked to speak to Nina.

Oh-oh, a problem thought Nina but it was a manageable one – the cowgirls were uncomfortable about sleeping in a real house. Kate understood immediately, saying, "Come on your girls, I know exactly how you feel. We have a closed off area above the barn – we'll sweep and dust that out and you can bunk down there. Unfortunately there's only a toilet and cold running water."

"No problem," Bella said. "We come to your kitchen for meals and we take our bath on Friday nights – right?"

"Er, right," Kate said, looking a little worried. "But if you require a bath any more frequently, just roll up, okay?"

"Sure boss, but that won't be happening. We're cowgirls."

"Oh yes," Kate giggled. "I'm becoming too comfortable living here. When I worked on horse ranches gaining wider experienced we considered working out in the rain, becoming soaked, was the same as a bath, right?"

"Right boss," Bella said straight-faced. "Nobody wants a drought to break more than cowgirls whose armpits are rotting."

Everyone but Bella laughed.

* * * 

At last the great day – wedding day – arrived. Brave Nina was in a state, feeling almost ready to vomit. Her nerves were in a mess. 

"As soon as you see him, darling, you'll put all this behind you."

"I won't," Nina sobbed, clinging to Kate for comfort. Kate was nursing a hangover, but one that she accepted with good grace.

Thirty hours earlier Dean Masters had arrived unannounced with two friends, experienced handymen when it came to building, to join Shaun and Vic. Dean strolled around the house then pulled out his phone and called in three more handymen. 

"Let's give Kate a finished house for the wedding," Dean said. "Shaun brief 'Dodge' here where to pick up supplies and while he's driving there phone the orders through. Vic, go find Kate and get her to come here on the double. You know what to say to her Shaun."

Kate came running. "No time to wash and groom that pretty horse of Vic's darling," Shaun grinned. "Dean has arrived with these guys and three more are on their way – we're going to complete the house extensions in time for the arrival of wedding guest who'll be staying on. You make a list of everything including full furnishings you require, and then phone through your orders and demand delivery pronto."

"Oh Dean," Kate said, rushing to kiss him. Then remembering she had a husband returned to kiss Shaun's happy face.

"I have all my guys at the Dome making special staging and special effects, darling," Shaun said. "There's no way I can pull them off – they are working 12-hour days at it is."

Even so, Shaun showed his leadership, racing between his men at the Dome and back to his home to supervise the volunteer gang racing to finish the extensions. The volunteers worked through till 11:00 that first night and finished just after 11:00 next morning. They then sat drinking beer, watching Shaun's regular team of decorators staining wood walls after the flooring extensions were sanded and awaited their multiple coatings. By 2:00 everything was finished and the decorators and Kate joined the party. As the afternoon wore on wives with children rolled up for the cook-out. The last party-goers left at 10:00 when the very tipsy Kate hauled her exhausted Shaun off to bed. Vic and his wedding clothes went off with Dean and his wife and children who were already asleep, Leigh being overcome after eight hours drinking wine.

"You navigate, I'll drive," Dean slurred. 

"No Deano, you navigate and I'll drive; I've not had as much to drink as you," Vic hiccupped.

"Okay, then let's go."

Vic complained, "Can't find the steering wheel."

"Seems to be on my side buddy; we best change places."

Vic dimly knew the consequences of making a stupid driving mistake so they crawled home at a top speed of 15 miles and hour and arrived safely.

At 7:30 Vic awoke to find his cock being stroked gently.

"Wake up Big Boy," Leigh said, licking his ear. You have a wedding to attend; I've run a bath for you. Cover that thing as the kids are running through the house."

After breakfast everyone went off to get ready. 

Vic came into the sitting room dressed in white satin with black trim and black leather boots with white detailing. Dean gaped and said, "A wedding? You look dressed for the lead role in 'The Cowboy Musical'."

"Nina's idea," Vic said embarrassed.

Leigh came in, looking stunning in green silk and matching green lace including her hat, and relaxed Vic. "Oh, you handsome dandy; may I be the bride?"

They drove off slowly, timing their arrival for 8:45 on Kate's orders. She would stay in her bedroom with Nina until 8:59.

Dean made Vic embarrassed by saying, "The gay boys will be after you Vic." Vic's alarm was softened when the celebrant, Trinity Twill stole Leigh's line and asked if she could be the bride. 

Whiskies were poured and Britney from the hotel came forward, kissed Vic rather immodestly and introduced him to her boyfriend Justin, a fine looking young fellow. Then Joe Black's party arrived and Vic was swallowed up in that reunion and had to be marched away from them to stand in front of Trinity with best man Shaun.




Thoroughly Loving Nina Ch. 11



The CD began playing the 'Wedding March' and in came Kate and Leigh both dressed identically followed by Nina on the arm of Joe Black, both dressed identically to Vic's outfit.

Nina said later she'd not seen Vic in his wedding gear until that moment and her knees gave way but Joe Black was up to the task of steadying her. No longer was she nervous.

Vic would say later Nina just had to be unequalled as a Western bride and he had felt so immensely proud of her and remained amazed she'd chosen to marry a jerk like him. These comments came during short speeches during the Wedding Breakfast. Some of the women shouted Vic down when he indicated he was not good enough for Nina.

"Stop abusing yourself Vic," Kate shouted, causing many to erupt into laughter.

Kate, immensely proud, had led everyone into her newly extended dinning room where four women from nearby ranches were lined ready to serve food and their husband ready to uncork the champagne. It was a great and happy time and after a bit of liquor Bella and Betsy lost their shyness. The happy gathering began to disperse with the arrival of three helicopters to take the bridal party into The Town.

* * *

The parade started, led by the chief of police followed by cheerleaders and then Nina, Vic and Kevin. As it turned into Main Street Nina called to Vic – "They've decorated the street – doesn't it look magnificent."

The street was lined with people, mostly people unable to secure tickets to enter the Dome. Nina was thrilled that many of the people calling 'Nina' were actually calling 'Nina, Juna.' She'd wept at the assembly area when with fatherly pride Joe Black handed her Juna's reins and said, "My gift to you, Nina. Never sell her."

Later they'd see the parade on local television, clips from which went nation-wide. The Ladies' Town Club was easily the largest sector with 760 members turning out to march.

Twenty minutes later the parade began entering the Dome and another Twenty minutes would pass before the tail of the parade entered the area to continuing applause.

The wedding ceremony was replicated and provided some moving moments for people keen to shed a tear. Then, to great applause, Nina was called to ride up the spiral ramp to halt in front the box where the dignitaries were seated. As she began her ride Kevin was introduced and then asked to follow. Finally Joe Black was called to a huge and sustained welcome. Joe rode Vic's Palomino and waving his old black Stetson from competition days to the crowd, was acknowledging this as one of his finest hours.

Commissioner Mel Jones, speaking on behalf of the City's three commissioners, welcomed everyone and acknowledged of organizers and sponsors and then announced the three nominations would now be detailed.

Trinity Twill welcomed Joe Black back to his 'adopted County' as she called it and cited highlights of his distinguished career in rodeo. Stating that Joe's feats were already enshrined in the county's Hall of Fame she then announced her organization, the Ladies Town Club of which she was president, was pleased to announce it would take immediate steps to sponsor the nomination of Joe Black to be inducted into the national Rodeo Hall of Fame.

Joe received a standing ovation.

Nina was asked to dismount and lead Juna forward. Kate Levett reminded everyone of the outstanding contribution to the fame of the Quarter House Juna had made in assisting Nina Alice Raymond or Nina Alice Raymond-Haig as she was now to go riderless to summons help for a stricken cowboy. She then announced that she and friends would be nominating Juna to be inducted into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame.

The crowd clapped and cheered.

Nina was asked to remount and to ride to the perimeter of the arena of the Dome. The master of ceremonies urged people in the parade to move in tighter towards the center to allow Nina to demonstrate a giant leap in skills to perform as a cowgirl since making her dramatic contribution to the rescue of Kevin Hazelwood. Her tutors had been the last speaker, Kate Levett and master horseman, Joe Black. 

Joe Black took the microphone.

"Okay Nina, an easy trot to warm up."

Away she went.

"You're looking too comfortable Nina; look where you've been."

The crowed applauded as Nina rose on her stirrups and performed the difficult maneuver of balancing while kicking free of her stirrups and turning to move down the saddle – for a moment on one hand, while she swung her legs to drop on the saddle riding backwards.

"Back you go, taking the easy was Nina."

In a great feat of balance she stood on the saddle and spinning around dropped back into her seat, riding forward again.

"Okay Nina, into a canter and test the cinders."

Nina kicked Juna into a canter and gracefully dropped off the saddle to hit the dust-free surface and bounce off it and pulling on the saddle horn regained her seat.

"Nina, there's a mad bull broken into the Dome arena and is threatening everyone there. Contain that danger, Nina."

She pulled out her lariat, the crowd laughing as a clown wearing the fake head of a bull trotted on to the area bellowing and then broke into a run. Nina ran him down, roping him to the accompaniment of great laughter.

"Okay Nina, finally to end your exhibition. There's a drunken jerk on this side of the arena clowning around with a whisky bottle. Take it off him please. Don't hurt him as you're not insured."

Juna broke into a gallop and leaning out of the saddle Nina snatched the bottle from the drunk – he was on his back, feet in the air, the bottle between them. The crowd cheered and then groaned when they saw the bottle arc ahead of Juno to hit the ground and stop in a spin. Juna skidded to a halt and under Nina's direction went on to her knees, Nina reached down, recovered the bottle and returning upright kicked Juna into a canter and waved the bottle triumphantly as she returned up the ramp to sustained applause.

The master of ceremonies said, "Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls – a fine exhibition of riding, don't you think?" 

The crowd roared its approval.

"Ladies and gentlemen. I now give you Mrs Hannah Black, who's in our County Hall of Fame for her feats in horse endurance racing when she was a young woman. She's wife of Joe Black and with Hannah is her daughter who'll speak first. I give you Margo Hazelwood."

Margo received a polite clap as she took the podium.

"You've just seen a wonderful riding exhibition from a lovely lady who just over a year ago was a greenhorn from the city who's never ridden a horse, never fired a gun. On Monday Nina and husband Vic take over their 60,000 acre ranch to rear horse and cattle and to sink millions of dollars into creating one of the best introductions to the cowboy and cowgirl way that dudes can buy for a six-day stay-over. Nina as most of you know saved the life of my husband Kevin – that's him down in front of me with my father, Joe Black, and Nina Raymond-Haig. Gritty Nina hauled out Kevin's rifle and shot one of the finest horses my father has raised. It had been writhing in agony with two legs shattered, trapping my Kevin. Nina put the horse out of its misery, thus beginning a most remarkable rescue operation involving numerous people and, of course the gallant Juno who you've just seen has been ridden by Nina in a partnership that would make better-than-average cowgirls green with envy. Thank God you came to work for my parents for a year, Nina and happened to be visiting them at the time of Kevin's near-fatal incident. And thank God you were the person riding that day with Kevin, Nina. I totally endorse what the next speaker is about to say. Thank you everyone."

There was a moment's silence then a huge response of clapping – no whistles or cheering – as the crowd acknowledged the auburn-hair cowgirl who'd just spoken from the heart.

"Hi everyone. What a huge turn-out – we are overwhelmed. I'm Hannah, wife of Joe Black, former co-employee of the remarkable Nina Raymond-Haig. I stand here today to announce on behalf of my small group of cowgirl friends the start of the process to nominate Nina Alice Raymond-Haig for induction into the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame."

Waiting for the cheering to die, Hannah continued. "Yes, it's true Nina is a so-called 'five-minute wonder' into cowgirl fame. She's not made a name for herself at rodeo, working with horses, demonstrating skill working cattle or performing outstanding service in cowgirl organization administration. In fact she's not currently even a member of a cowgirl association. But dammit, so what? Ask around anywhere in the country, even abroad, for a name of the best known cowgirl alive today and I'll guarantee the names mentioned of cowgirls who actually are alive today will include the name Nina Raymond many times over. In that day of glory, saving the life of my son, Nina has immortalized herself as one of the great cowgirls. The nomination remains for life, so if the hierarchy determines that in its opinion Nina has to do more before joining the legendary cowgirls, then so be it. Nina hasn't finished yet, not by a long shot. We'll be lodging our nomination during this coming week. Thank you."

Hannah was applauded and the call began, "Nina, Nina, Nina!" It died as the master of ceremonies leaned over and handed Nina a cordless microphone.

"Hi folk, this sure is one funny wedding day I'm having. My husband may be unlucky if I'm not unconscious from huge emotion, alcohol intake and exhaustion by the time I arrive in bed."

She waited for the laughter to die.

"Thank you Hannah and friends for the nomination. I'll accept the ruling of the powers that be because no way do I wish to diminish the high standard met by those girls who have been elevated to the great Hall of Fame. Thank you Margo for your lovely words – we both know saving the good guys is what we do in life!"

More cheers, especially from women, were near-deafening.

"I could stay here all afternoon thanking everyone, but will spare you. I just want to especially thank my friend Kate Levett for giving me my real wedding, President Trinity Twill and her Ladies Town Club for sponsoring and organizing this tremendous gathering at the Dome and the parade – oh, there's just so many of you wonderful people to thank soundlessly. But I must mention one more. When I learned of the legend of Joe Black from his top cowgirl Bella Jones, the next time Joe told me to straighten my back I knew I wanted to be a cowgirl. Bella and Joe and Kate set pretty high standards to follow, huh? Bella has already started work for Vic and me as wrangler boss with the horses and her great friend and another Joe Black protégé Betsy Marks will be cattle boss. With Bella being so strong we really don't need another man around apart from Vic and our consultant cattleman who is Kate's father most of you guys know as Gabby, so whenever we hire only cowgirls need apply. Thank you."

As arranged, the bands in the arena grouped as Joe rode King down the ramp to allow Vic to mount and return up the ramp to collect his bride. The combined bands then played 'The Grand March from Aida' as the Bride and Bridegroom went down the ramp, cantered one and a half times around the perimeter of the area to loud cheers and then turned and waited as the mass of people, horses, props and vehicles from the parade parted. A gun fired, the gates at the far end opened and Nina and Vic kicked their horses and galloped from the arena. They handed over their horses at the hotel, they showered and changed into fresh clothes before going down to the wedding breakfast due to commence at 5:00 with cocktails.

"I love you Nina, not in the perfect fashion, but in my own way I love you deeply."

"She knew what he meant. He had a wild bronco for a dick. Well, if he lost his desire for other women and just kept Leigh in the shadows; that would do her. She looked at him adoringly and opened her lips slightly, moving in to kiss her husband.

*

EPILOGUE

Six months after the wedding Kate is three month's pregnant thanks to Vic's intervention and his tireless efforts – although he'd say no effort really.

Nina has just learned she's pregnant. She knows the father can only be Vic. 

The new homestead on the knoll at Haig Ranch is under-way; the cabins from Joe and Hannah Black's ranch are all in place and are being renovated following cleaning up the mess made by the blasting and excavation through rock to form the new artificial lake. 

Approval has been secured for the conversion of the former homestead into hotel-style luxury suites. It will be next summer before the first dudes arrive.

The old barn and outbuilding became firewood and the replacements are grouped two hundred yards closer to the better pastureland.

Not unexpectedly, Bella is boss in the bunkhouse down there.

Leigh received a bit of a surprise recently but found she was only a few days late. It gave her quite a shock to realize when thinking she might be pregnant she didn't mind whether her husband or Vic was the father.

There has been a switch in primary roles. Nina is now running the ranch and has become a multi-skilled cowgirl while Vic has taken over ranch administration including responsibility for the ranch guest operation. He is also stud master with Kate buying in mares to allow King to produce progeny likely to qualify for registration as Palomino horses.

Nina comes out as cover photo on this month's issue of 'Cowgirl Magazine' with an extensive interview with her. One of the photographs illustrating the story shows Nina surrounded by school children. Third and fourth graders from schools in the region visit Haig Ranch as part of school studies, with focus on Nina and Juno. The growing legend of Nina as a truly focused cowgirl had led to her just being nominated as 'Cowgirl of the year'. Just about every dude arriving at the ranch asks, "When can we meet Nina."

Nina is now vice-president of the Ladies Town Club and her next best friend after Kate Levett is club junior vice-present Leigh Masters. Those two combined to loan finance for the construction of Kate's indoor riding school which is managed by retired rancher Joe Black.

Everyone in The Town and its hinterland who gossip – which is almost like saying everyone – agrees that it was a great day for the County when Nina Raymond-Haig and her husband came looking to buy a ranch. 

THE END