9 comments/ 9595 views/ 10 favorites Valentine's Day Renewal By: ebonynympho I extend my thank you in advance to the readers and voters. This is my first ever submitted story. I welcome all constructive criticism and I hope this story touches you the way in which I intended it. * "In my damn apartment, my bed?" "You are never here anyways!" The petite blonde was slowly edging from the bed covered in my sheets obviously trying to find her clothes. I eyed her and she froze, I don't know who she was more afraid of me, or my now very soon to be ex-husband. "As far as I know you would be spending your romantic day with your piece of shit fuck-mate Jackson, Jason, whatever!" "Jordan? My boss? You think I'm sleeping with my sixty year old boss! You're sick! I take all these extra projects so you can sit on your lazy ass all day or pick up bobble-head bottle blondes and fuck them in my bed!" He inched toward me and I stepped forward, determined not to back down, although I was certain to be knocked down. "So what, you're challenging me?" he curled his fist and sneered. "Just leave!" I lowered my voice and my body realizing that this wasn't a fight I could win and I've got enough scars to prove that. "Or what?" "I pay the rent Adrian, the bills, I buy the groceries! You have no claim to anything! Get the fuck out of MY house!" my body rose and anger seethed. I can't believe he was threatening me over my own apartment, one I had before meeting him. "You bitch!" My head felt like the worst hangovers combined with a freight truck. My eyes ached as I tried to open them. Then I realized one hurt more than the other and I could only see from my left and the right was a blur. I was on my bed and could barely see much else. I tried to move but my entire body ached. "No, no, no, don't move!" a strange voice called to me as my room door opened. I heard the footsteps move closer over hardwood floors. I turned my head slowly to see the same blonde that was crawling from my bed. "What the hell are you still doing in here? Shouldn't you have followed behind that piece of shit?" She sat on the bed and I felt a rush of cold and pain hit the right side of my face and I flinched. "I guess I am deserving of that, but I am not really deserving of it either." "Aren't you full of yourself?" I tried to grab the iced object she had put against my face to find that I could only slightly lift my arm. "He said he was single, I swear, what you think of me is by no means the kind of woman I am. You probably don't want to believe me, but what reason would I have for sticking around here if I was really a bobble-head bottle blonde?" I could hear her stifle a laugh and she had a valid point, I guess. But I certainly wasn't trying to make friends with my now ex's mistress. "Even if that is so, I'm not looking to make new friends this way!" "I'm just doing what is right. You needed help, so I am helping. He thought I was following behind but I bolted the doors. He was furious but it was the right thing." ************************************************************************************* "Excuse me. Pardon me. Sorry." Three years in New York and I still can't beat the crowd. I'm not of a small frame, about 5'9" average built, about 140lbs, nice curves, 34C bust, rounded hips, one would think I can move through the hustle and bustle to work after all this time. "Shit!" the coffee burned my hand and I dropped what remained. "I'm so sorry," a husky voice stood out in all the foot traffic. I cursed under my breath and looked up at the man almost looking down at me. "It's okay," I lied. "No, let me buy you back a cup, Black Cat right, it's just a few minutes." "It's fine!" I snapped and walked off; fortunately I was right by my office building and just slipped inside. I went to the bathroom and washed my hands, fortunately none had stained my clothes. I slowly walked to the elevator and to my office, more disappointed than one should be over a cup of coffee. Sat down, slouched in my chair and spun around looking outside. 'February 2, just about that time again.' I sighed and turned back to face my desk. I had come far in those three years, it's about time I start letting go. The day passed uneventfully and it was time to head home again to do absolutely nothing, and go absolutely nowhere. The same routine would probably depress most people but I think I have grown to accept and appreciate it. I shuffled through the crowd as always, this time no one spilled my coffee and I turned into my building. As I stepped towards the elevator a tall figure almost blocked my path, nearly causing a repeat of yesterday. "What the hell?" "I'm sorry, I just wanted to bring you your coffee from yesterday," I looked at the man and actually saw him today. At least 6'2", honey blonde hair, eyes resembling emeralds, an obvious athletic build, dressed in a blazer that looked rather expensive and dark-washed jeans. "Well sorry to disappoint but I already have my coffee." I lifted my hand as proof. "This is why I came to find out what you drink so I can purchase it tomorrow morning." "Thank you but no! Good bye." I moved around him and into the elevator that just landed and was now vacant. I pressed the button for my floor and waited for it to close. I could feel him staring and I was determined not to meet his gaze. "Well what do you know, I'm going to.........." He stepped in and looked at the laminated keypad, "The tenth floor too." "It was a cup of coffee, let it go!" I hissed as the doors were now closing. "Why are you being so mean?" "I beg your pardon? You are harassing me and asking why I am being mean! You're a pompous man who obviously thinks he must have his way! Well let me give you a little insight into life.........it doesn't work that way!" "Wow!? Pompous! What an assumption! Harassing? For being chivalrous in trying to return the coffee I spilled. You have a very interesting perception of a person's actions." "Whatever!" 'Four.........five.................six' Could this elevator move any slower? I felt him glaring at me still. "What do you want? A date? A screw? A trophy girlfriend? Why are you so obsessed with the damn coffee?" "A trophy girlfriend wouldn't work in a prestigious accounting firm, unless she's the mail clerk, you don't dress like a mail clerk! I know where to find a hardware so I can always go buy as many screws as I like, and lastly, I would have asked for a date but you seem rather iced over despite you physical appearance!" he smirked toward me. The door rang open, "Choke on a fortune cookie you ass!" I stepped out and stomped toward my office and closed my glass doors. As soon as I stepped in my office phone buzzed. "Good morning Mr. Grisham," "Sara, good morning dear, can you bring up the Bookner accounts in a few minutes please. I want to run over it with you before they arrive." "Definitely sir, I'll be up in five minutes." "Thank you" I hung up and went to my file cabinet and got everything together, I wanted to have a few sips of my coffee but why have it linger on my breath. I sighed and headed back to the elevator. I walked across the grand lobby and nodded to the secretary as I knocked on the unnecessarily large doors. "Come in," I pushed through. "Sara, perfect timing, they'll probably be here in a half hour or so, so let's make this quick." I sat across from him and we discussed figures and statements, basically the stuff he didn't bother himself with. He liked the big picture, red numbers or black numbers. He was still a good boss and I guess with overseeing everything you hire persons like me to see the small stuff. "Thank you; I don't know what I would do without you. Always on point." "Thanks Mr. Grisham." I stood and headed towards the door. As I pulled on the door to my dismay, there was the pompous coffee ass. "Bradley, my boy, come in! Sara come here, meet my step-son!" I stepped back slowly as he stepped in and went towards Mr Grisham and hugged him. "Sara Michaels, Bradley Graham" he said motioning between the two of us. I stood a fair distance almost as though contemplating to run. "Sara is one of our top accountants and auditors here. Been making waves for the three years she's been with us, probably exec by the end of this year. She's the woman I wanted you to work with next month." "Pleased to meet you," Bradley extended his hand and smile, almost a smirk. At least he was being professional about our unfortunate meeting. I extended my own hand almost trembling. "Same here" "That project I had mentioned to you for next month, the accounts that have been neglected and almost back logged, Bradley is here to help, sort of like an entry exam," he laughed towards his son. "Help me? I thought another senior CPA was to work on these with me?" I almost sounded a bit harsher than I intended. "That was the plan but Brad is to come in as an exec, so this will give him a taste of what we have been doing before he comes to hang out with us!" he elbowed him. "Actually, since I'm here now, why don't we start now, unless that's a problem Sara?" his face showed obvious pleasure in my discomfort. "Great idea, I've got clients coming in, but Sara is always on point and she's the best person to follow. Go ahead. I'll try to check in later. Hope you don't mind sharing your office temporarily Sara?" I smiled knowing it was a command not a question. I turned toward the door and opened it and I heard the footsteps follow. I walked towards the elevator and suddenly I noticed my red bottoms echoing in the hall. The elevator opened and we both stepped inside. The doors closed with a 'ding' and the awkwardness descended like hail. I stared at the door, willing it to open as though it would help me breathe. Finally at my floor and I went to my office door and stood to the side as he entered then closed it. I walked to my desk, sat and sighed. "Thank you for being gracious about our incident, it is appreciated." "Oh my, she speaks in a tone other than bitterness!" he mumbled as he stared out the large glass windows. "You .........." "I know, pompous man who should go and choke on a fortune cookie," he burst into laughter which only made me rage even more. "Who says that; choke on a fortune cookie?" "Look, I don't know what you deal is, but I don't like you anymore than you like me but I unfortunately still have to work with you. Can we please do what we are supposed to be doing so you can be on your way and I can be on mine?" "Ah, the cold one returns," he said turning on his heels towards me. "I am willing to work, as long as you stop trying to chew my head off!" "Then don't provoke me!" "Should I stop breathing then?" 'Maybe' I muttered as I moved towards the large stack of boxes in the corner. I lifted one and placed it on my desk with a heave. "This box as well as the six you see over there are all the accounts Mr. Grisham was referencing. I wasn't to start them until next month. I would assume the deadline will be the same but I don't like to waste time. So you can take this one and I'll start working on the others." "One box of seven?" "Finish one before you start acting as though you can do it all!" I cleared my table providing space for both of us and I pulled a box to my feet on the other side of the desk. He said nothing; he just opened the box and started working. I glanced at him from the corner of my eye; he looked very pensive, as though he was actually working. I returned to my work as though I were alone. "I'm going to get a bite for lunch, I am almost afraid to offer you something!" I looked at him and tried not to be rude, "I am fine, thank you." "Suit yourself," he waved me off and went through the door. I hissed and returned to my papers. I had a few drinks of water but kept at my task. He eventually returned with a take away bag. He placed it on my side of the desk, "It's just a salad, if you don't want it its fine." "Thank you," I said barely looking up. He sighed and went back to his stack. The afternoon passed pretty quickly, quicker than I'd like with so much work to be done, I even found myself snacking at the salad he had brought. "I'm heading out, I'll see you tomorrow Sara?" "I work here so I guess so," He organised his papers and looked over at me, "Can't you answer someone without being unkind?" "I'm not unkind; I just do my work and usually need not say or do anything else." He didn't respond and headed through the doors. I gathered my own things and left shortly after. The night passed uneasily, discomfort and frustration riddled my sleep but I woke for another day of work as though it hadn't happened. This month always brought restlessness for me. I got to my office to see Bradley already there, working on his pile from yesterday. "Good morning," I tried my best to sound pleasant. "Good morning," I pulled $10 from my purse, "thank you for the salad yesterday," He looked at me, almost bemused, "It was just a salad, that is not necessary." I saw no point in trying to argue especially after the original coffee problem. I just said thank you again. He left for lunch and came back with a salad again. We worked in silence as I eventually reached for the salad. We repeated our trend for the next day to follow, as did my restless night. On Friday, I got in early and Bradley wasn't there as yet, so I put forty dollars in an envelope and set it on top of his stack. He walked in moments later and said 'Good Morning'. I slightly raised my head from my work to respond just as he was opening the envelope. 'Please don't turn this into an argument' I mumbled to myself. "I only bought you three salads," he said ruffling the envelope. "I figured since you would probably do it today, I'd pay for it in advance," He sighed and set down the envelope with the cash in the center of the desk and buried himself in his paperwork. However he didn't leave for lunch today, a fact my stomach noticed but soon got over. It was my norm whenever I had work to stay in and in most cases, not eat. We worked in silence other than to confer on problems a few times. The day passed and the office yellowed from the setting sun signalling the end of the day. "Enjoy your weekend, Sara" he called over his shoulder, probably not wanting to deal with my retort. And he was gone. I shuffled around to do the same, but then what was the point, I barely slept. I unpacked my work on the floor, took off my jacket, kicked off my shoes and settled on the floor by the window so I could see the city. I had a sandwich with some horrid coffee from the break-room and got back to work. I leaned my head against the glass and looked down, people scurried everywhere, peddlers pushing roses and cards, even my regular coffee shop had spewed Valentine's Day all over itself. As I sat on the floor, the silent tears came. I sobbed in silence but cursed at my life. Adrian had managed to ruin an entire month every year for four years, and I let him. I knew things were bad and in general, I did try. I had it all planned, I had even gotten time off for one week starting on the 14th, made bed and breakfast reservations......... all for naught. At least I'd had the week off the nurse the black eye and bruises from that evening. The sobbing broke free into a fully fledged cry in the corner of my office. My door swung open, and I looked up instinctively forgetting about my current state. Bradley. Why now? He stared at me and I looked back out the window and tried to wipe my eyes and found it was terribly futile. "I'd left my charger," he said softly. I didn't respond and kept looking outside. I heard the footsteps move towards me, then realized I was without my jacket and my spaghetti strapped silk blouse exposed the scar between my left breast and shoulder blade. I grabbed my jacket from the floor and swung it on hurriedly. The footsteps stopped and he sighed. His steps became distant, and he left, the door closing behind him. I hugged my knees and cried profusely at my state for the better part of the hour until I calmed a bit and returned to only a sob. The door reopened and I didn't bother to look around this time. I must have looked worse than before and was hoping he would just leave. The steps came closer and I could feel him almost standing over me but I didn't budge, my eyes still glued to the window pane. He set down a bag on top of my work and moved away. I glanced from the corner of my eye to see that it was take out. Papers shuffled to my right then he returned and dropped them on the ground. Moments later his back was leaned against the glass and he got to work. I slowly turned my attention to my work as well, sobbing softly now but eventually stopping as I got further into my work again. He didn't speak, I didn't feel him stare, his eyes seemed to be glued to the documents, and I realized I was now staring. He had a strong, masculine frame, one I would usually appreciate. His clenched jaw and furrowed brows, the strands of hair that fell over his left eye. I reprimanded myself and went back to work. The food between us did smell good, and my stomach snitched on how hungry I was and I felt my face redden. He set his papers aside and grabbed the take-out bag. "Cheese steak or turkey on rye?" he said holding a sandwich in each hand. I looked at him almost timidly and moved to take the turkey sandwich. He unwrapped the other for himself and dove in. I took small bites of mine, still looking out. "I'm originally from Ohio.............." he said looking at me. He paused but I said nothing. Silence. "I spent the last four years studying at Cambridge." Silence. "I love dogs but I think Chihuahua's are creepy" I smiled wearily at him and looked back outside, "I've been in NYC for three and a half years, I like dogs, but no personal thoughts on Chihuahuas." I decided it couldn't hurt to go along, he was trying but not being pushy. "How are you getting home?" "I walk, I don't live far" I looked at my phone, almost 11pm. "I actually should get going. It is rather late." "OK, I can drive you," "No, I'll walk. It's not far, and it's still busy out considering it's a Friday" "I've gathered that it's not far...............but I will still drive you." I didn't really fell like walking, but then I didn't really feel like driving with him either, but the fact that I didn't feel like arguing out-weighed it all. "Thank you," I said while putting things together. I have to admit, the silence, no questions, no pity; it made me appreciate his actions this evening. Maybe that's the real reason I agreed to go. We closed up and went to the garage and walk towards the sole vehicle in the lot. Not to my surprise, a Porshe. Typical. I made good money, but that was never in my thoughts. We got in and he logged my address for the GPS and drove out. It was really almost an hour's walk but I made my mornings better by stopping for coffee at Black Cat along the way. It was my 'ME' time, not that I was currently lacking. We drove in silence and I stared out the window. 'You have reached your destination!' He pulled toward the high rise apartments and turned into the parking. "I don't want to pry........." he started "Then don't!" I bit back. Even I felt badly after words left my lips. "You have a serious problem, you know that! Whatever IT is that's made you so indignant, I am not to blame. Apparently that scar runs deeper than the surface!" I hugged my jacket closer; I had hoped he hadn't seen it. My eyes swelled with tears, and I opened the door, "Thank you, good night!" "Sar......." My name trailed as I closed the door behind me. I took the stairs two at a time rather than the elevator and locked myself in my apartment. I sunk to the floor and cried and fell asleep in that very space. Valentine's Day Renewal The weekend passed in a blur, crying, watching television and sort of eating. Monday morning found me in my couch, sore, with a headache and bloodshot eyes with dark bags underneath. I called Mr. Grisham and requested this week off. The good thing is I am always prompt, and never missed work, he said; so he gladly obliged. ************************************************************************************* The minutes passed and Bradley noticed. Sara doesn't seem as though she had ever been late in her life. Was it because of his behavior? Haunted by Friday night for the entire weekend and now, not given the chance to make it up was really provoking his conscience. "I wonder if she called to say she wouldn't be here." He headed upstairs to his father, he should know. He knocked on the door, "Come in," Bradley pushed through to see his father motion to him while on his phone. He went inside and lingered around the award case. "Bradley, what's up? How's the work coming?" "It's good. I was actually wondering if you knew if Sara was going to be out today." "Shit! I was supposed to tell the secretary to let you know. She called in for the entire week. So unlike her though. I guess her plans for next week are far too great so she needed more time." He joked as he sat back in his chair. "Next week?" "Yeah, I guess she would have said it to you had she been here today. Sara has never worked from the 13th to the 20th of February, this to make the third year running. That was her only request when she was getting the job, she was willing to take it without pay, as long as she got those seven days off. That must be one lucky guy!" He was now laughing heartily, but Bradley wasn't smiling. Every year? She didn't seem too excited like someone with upcoming plans. "Okay, thanks. I'm going to be out today as well, is that cool?" "Yeah, you guys have almost two months, take all the time you need," the phone rang and his attention turned. Bradley headed out, now with more questions than answers and went to his car. If I go to her house, she'll probably slam the door in my face, but I have no number for her. Two weeks before she returned! He couldn't understand his fixation with her but it didn't matter. He would take the chance anyways. He turned over the engine and drove back to the apartment parking lot. There was a tenant list on the inside of the elevator. He pressed the button for her floor and the elevator roared to life. He walked down the hall, stopped, turned back then turned back again. "This is a bad idea. She'll probably report me!" he cursed to himself. "You're already here!" and he commanded his feet forward. '8A, this is her.' He knocked on the door almost timidly. No answer. Relief and frustration fought for his thoughts. He knocked again. He heard a lock being released, followed by about three more locks. 'Wow, talk about guarded' he thought inwards. The door finally flung open. As soon as her eyes met his it was on its way to being slammed closed. He gently pushed against it with one hand. "Wait! Please!" "Leave!" "If you give me two minutes, please, I won't come back, I promise!" She stopped pushing against the door, but she didn't let me in. "What?" she screamed with her body blocking the small gap in the doorway. "May I come in first?" I knew I was pushing my luck. At this rate I'd lose my seat with the company before starting. Her eyes were dark and red but made no hesitation as they bled poison with her glare. Wearing a camisole there was that scar she'd tried to hide. I drank her in further, even with no bra, her breasts seemed rounded like two globes and her nipples clearly outlined, sweat pants, her hair pulled into a messy ponytail. She reluctantly stepped backwards, barely opening the door. I had to almost squeeze through. She slammed the door and walked toward the couch. I notice a few marks across her back above the line of her blouse, however not as prominent as the one on her chest. I continued to stare; she had quite the curves, a firmly rounded ass, probably no underwear! She sat down with a plop and I slapped myself mentally for letting my mind stray. I walked around not being sure where to start. I analyzed her immaculately kept apartment. Very modern, open concept, probably a good view behind those black-out drapes. It was like walking into a magazine set-up but for a very depressed scene. "Why are you here?" I sighed, "I wanted to apologize about Friday," I inched closer to the couch, almost too timid for a man my size. "I was out of line and I felt horribly about it, and when you didn't come to work............" "Aaaawww, you felt like you were the center of my thoughts and your words cut me so deep I couldn't bear to come to work?" her sarcasm stung more than it probably should. My jaw clenched, she really couldn't take a damn apology, a favor, anything kind! 'You're here to apologize Bradley. Calm down!' "No, I just didn't want to wait two weeks to say that I am sorry." He moved to sit on the couch and she drew to the other end. 'What could cause someone to be so timid' he questioned looking at her with concern. "Don't waste your time staring at me with pity!" she barked. "It's not pity! Its concern and worry! You're not a woman that wants or need pity, I'm very aware of that!" She didn't respond, just shrugged. "Well, my father thinks you have big plans for this weekend like you do every year!" I laughed awkwardly. She scoffed and shook her head in disgust but still said nothing. "It's apparent that that's not the case, do you want to talk about it?" "Nothing to talk about," "Can I ask you a question?" "If it's unrelated" "Do you want to go out?" "No" "Do you want to stay in?" "That's why I'm home," "Well I could bring food, or cook. We could catch up on the work we have left" "I don't want to do any work; I'm not in the mood." "Well that's fine; I'll go out and get something for us!" I was almost out the door hoping she wouldn't continue to decline my offer. "Bradley," she said walking towards the door. "I don't want any food, I don't want any dates, I just want to stay home. I've got a lot going on. You can't help me, and needn't try. You are probably very nice but I am anything but, I am bitter and frozen and this is who I am. So don't come back. I'll see you at work" she looked to the floor and opened the door slowly and stepped back. "I'll be back with lunch in a bit," I moved to push a strand of hair back and she stepped away. I don't know why I did it, but her almost fear of even my hand fell hard on me. I went into the hall and she slowly closed the door and I heard her close her multiple locks. I walked away, thinking about the shell I had seen just now versus the fierce woman whose looks could kill. It was such total opposite it was almost unbelievable. ************************************************************************************* 'Why is he being so persistent? He's going to come back with lunch and want to talk. I won't have a moment's peace if he thinks he needs to pity me. He seems to be one of those who wants to fix everything, like a charity case.' I lay in the couch and stared mindlessly at the TV while hugging a pillow. Sleep didn't come easily nor did it stay. There was an incessant knocking on my door. "Sara, I know you are still home. Open up" it wasn't aggressive but it was obvious he wasn't leaving. "I'll stay out here until your neighbors hear me. Just open the door please. I brought Chinese food for lunch." Maybe if I let him in, he'll eat in silence like the other night. I shrugged and got up, released all the bolts and turned the handle. He had a smile on his face although I don't understand why. I stepped back and he let himself in closing the door behind him. He went to the kitchen and I went back to the couch to embrace my pillow. Moments later he approached with a dish and placed in front of me on the coffee table. He left and came back with drinks and a dish for himself. I shifted slowly on the couch and reached for the plate and fork. I could see a smile form on his lips. We ate in silence much to my pleasure but that ended eventually. "What are you debating in your head?" "What?" "Whenever you are stuck you twist your left brow and you bite the right corner of you lip. Then when you figure it out a half smile forms on the left side of your mouth, like an inside joke." I didn't respond, I just uncurled my lips, not having noticed it before and stared at him. "Are you in New York alone?" "Yes" "What are you doing for Valentine's Day?" My face fell sour in an instant. I saw the look on his face change as though he saw exactly what nerve he touched. I decided not to bite at him but softly said, "Nothing," "What caused the scar on your chest?" Now he was really pushing. Still trying to stay calm, I replied, "Why do you want to know? What is telling you about me going to do for you?" "It bothers you, and you try to hide it. You don't hide it now because you know I've seen it but I'd like to about you in general, which includes that. I like you even though you are not necessarily warm towards me," he chuckled softly to imply no insult. "People want to pity you, or play nice when they know about you. I don't like it, so I don't talk about me," "Do I strike you as the person to pity you after all, your bark is as bad as your bite, you can hold your own," now he was in a full on laugh. I smiled barely, not sure if it was more an insult or a compliment. I sighed and looked out toward the heavy drapes blocking the light. "I was married for three years, back in Arizona, worked a lot, my husband didn't like it, my bedroom became his hotel, my body became his sparring partner, and on the 13th of February he beat me for telling him to leave and the mistress in my bed was the one who looked after me until I was conscious. I moved to a few cities over six months, landed in NYC and decided to stay. The one in my chest is from a broken bottle; the ones in my back are from his rings or counters and cabinets, depending on what I fell against. Do you want to start the pity party now?" he slid closer but I had no further to go on the couch. "I don't intend to pity you" his thumb grazed my shoulder but I didn't move this time. "Let's play scrabble...........I saw it on your bookshelf on my way to the kitchen." "I'm not really in the mood," but he was already halfway to the shelf. He really didn't take no for an answer. He set up the board and even with ignoring him, he just continued on as though I'd agreed. I gave in and we played for the rest of the evening, talking of mindless topics, eating more Chinese food and eventually ordering pizza. We hung around like friends, awkwardly, but I enjoyed it. I haven't had that since Adrian I had just gotten married. He looked at his watch, "It's getting late, I probably should get going." "Yeah, I guess it is. Thanks for hanging around." I got up and headed towards the door and he followed. "I'm glad you let me," before I could respond he pulled me inwards and hugged me firmly. My body tensed and then relaxed when I inhaled and met his subtle cologne. His chest was broad and firm and his arms were thick and enveloped me. I melted against him for a moment, forgetting my own inhibitions. It'd been a while since I felt a man this way. He pulled loose hair from my face and kissed me on my crown and pulled away. "Good night." "Bye" I closed the door behind him and settled back in the couch and thought a little more about him. His body enthralled me now, and I wanted to feel close to him again. Then the thoughts of my scars came, my past and my eyes filled with tears and it accompanied me to sleep. I slept a little more sound for the first night in a while. I got up and showered and stare at myself in the mirror. Everything but the scars...............that's the one thing ruining my body, physically. I sighed and pulled a large towel around my chest and began to run a comb through my wet hair. Then there was a knock outside. I ignored it thinking it could be across the hall. It wasn't even 8am yet. "Sara, its Bradley." I went towards the door and pulled all the bolts and turned the knob. Bradley looked down at me, wearing jeans and a blue polo shirt that fit and defined his chiseled muscles. I hadn't even realized I was standing in the doorway, in my towel. "Morning. Can I come in?" he smiled. My embarrassment was probably apparent. I think I mumbled 'good morning' while stepping backwards. "I know I didn't ask to come by this morning, but I thought you might feel sorry for me if I was already here" he smiled at me as I closed the door. He stood less than a foot from me as I leaned against the door. He closed the space between us with his hands against the door. There was that scent again. "I like you. I really like you Sara. I don't want to push you or frighten you but I really want to kiss you right now. Can I?" I wasn't sure what to say. Lord knows I wanted to, but what would come after that? "Just one kiss. Nothing else, I promise," as though I'd said my thoughts out loud. I nodded my head shyly and he smiled at me warmly. The space closed between us and his gaze never left mine until his eyes closed when his lips brushed mine. Slowly his lips closed against mine and everything stopped. My breathing, my heart, time.............it was the kind of kiss they wrote cheesy books about. I could feel the tip of his tongue against my bottom lip and my mouth slightly parted, beckoning to him. His tongue found mine and heat flushed my body. His hand moved from the door to the base of my neck and his finger stroked my face. His lips finally pulled away but his forehead rested against mine. "I think you should get dressed," "Mmhm," but neither of us moved. His lips closed down again and it felt more intense but somehow still as soft. He backed off and ran his hands through his hair in obvious frustration. "I'll be right back," I headed towards my bedroom and swung the door behind me. I pulled away my towel and felt a coolness between my legs; something I've had no reason to feel in years. I put on a pair of old jeans and a T-shirt. I went back outside to see him moving around in the kitchen. "Let's have breakfast," he said while closing a cabinet. I headed toward the kitchen and we flowed. Cooking and talking, like it was meant to be. The next couple days went by quickly and we shared a few kisses throughout the days. Nights were warmer with him around. I felt sadness each night he left. But reality was drawing near for me. "I'll see you tomorrow?" "No, you can't come here tomorrow!" I pulled away from his embrace. "Why not? Because it's the 13th? That's not a good reason Sara," "I'm not ready; I'll see you in a few days. I'll call, I promise." He kissed me deeply and passionately and I fell to his touch. "I will see you tomorrow," he whispered against my lips. Before I could speak, he'd gone through the door. I went to my couch, my safe haven and began to cry. I had nightmares still, I was moody, and I didn't eat; I didn't want to be with anyone for the next couple days. I slept restlessly, my eyes confessed. I showered and found my way back to the couch and looked at my phone, 11:30AM. Maybe he decided to respect my wishes after all. I settled against my cushions and browsed the TV channels. A knock woke me from my usual restless sleep. I looked at my phone, 5:30pm. I should have figured. I got up and opened the door. "Good afternoon," he stepped in and placed a deep kiss against my lips. "How was your day?" "The same depressing way it's been for years." I closed the door as he set down his briefcase on the floor. "You went to work today?" "Nope. I just had some things to deal with so I had it this morning. How about you let me take you to dinner?" "I don't really feel like going out, maybe another night." "I've watched you enjoy the darkness of the house this past week. Tonight we go out; anything you want, even if it is burgers and fries. So get dressed." I went to my room and found a green sleeveless turtleneck blouse and a pair of black trousers and laid them against the bed. I moved into the shower but didn't spend very long. I undid my horrible ponytail and attempted to pull it into a proper looking one. I put on low wedge heels and stepped into the living room. His attention was on the TV. "Ready," He turned to face me and stood slowly. His eyes sparkle and I felt my face flush. "Beautiful," he took two strides and closed the gap between us, "Just beautiful!" He held me in a firm embrace and kissed my crown, what I've now accepted as his habit. "Let's get going," he nudged me. True to his word I was allowed to choose and we went to my favorite pizzeria. We ate and laughed and for the first time in three years, I forgot what day it was and all the things associated with it. We talked all the way home just like we had all week. I poured us both some wine and he cuddled me as I sat on the couch with him. We relaxed into the night watching TV. We were aware of nothing but each other. It was the perfect evening. He pulled me closer and kissed my ear and neck. I turned to face him and found his lips, but he didn't accept me. "It's probably a lot for you right now, but I'm so in love with you Sara. The way you glare at me with raw fury and the way you look at me like friend you hold dear. I love your wit, and cunningness, your beauty and class. Sara, I love you and I needed you to know." His lips took mine before I had to me to react or respond. It was clear he did not desire a response, at least not now. His kiss deepened and his pull strengthened. In a fluid move, I found myself straddling him, now pressing against steel. He moaned against my mouth as his hands roamed over my back and down my hips. I found myself wondering how he would feel inside me. I leaned forward seeking more from him, my nipples hardened as my chest pressed against his. His hand caressed my outer thigh upwards until it met my copious ass and I was compelled to grind my hip against him when he squeezed like it was a stress ball. His hand wandered along my waist and under the hem of my blouse and his thumbs grazed against my stomach as it went higher. "We don't have to," he mumbled against my lips. I didn't respond but kissed him harder and pull him closer from the base of his neck with my fingers tussling with his hair. He stood and I wrapped my legs and arms around him more firmly. He found my bedroom and switched on the lights. "No! Turn them off, please," I almost sounded like a child begging. His lips pressed against mine. "Stop hiding from me Sara, I love all of you, I want all of you. Please let me have you, entirely," he waited for no response but locked our lips again and placed me down on the bed gently. He understood my want, probably my need and continued to pull my blouse higher, as our kiss deepened. I groaned at having to pull away from him to be relieved of my top. He stared down at me; I suddenly became very aware of the other marks from more unfortunate encounters and my hand moved to cover my mid section. But his eyes emitted lust, love and intensity as he pulled my hands above my head and rejoined our lips. He moved along my neck, "Are you sure you want this?" I kissed the line of his ear, "Bradley I need you!" I whispered and bit his ear lobe. He groaned against my neck and started kissing me with more aggression, as though he'd truly been waiting on my permission. His kisses softened as he covered the swell of my left breast while undoing my bra. He kissed the length of the scar and around it. He tossed my bra to the side and his right hand cupped my breast as he flicked his tongue against my now taught nipples. He danced around my areola then nibbled at me gently as he continued to massage my breast. His left hand found my inner thigh and trailed so closely to my core, I couldn't help but squirm beneath him, groaning in my throat, the only way I could inform him that I needed more of him. He pulled his hands away slowly then switched to apply the same pleasurable assault to my right breast. But this time his right hand found the waistband of my pants and started to undo the belt and zip. He slowly moved away from my breast and started kissing along the center of my stomach and his other hand went to assist in removing my pants. He looked down at me and I felt like a spread in magazine that all men wanted. He drank me in as he ran his hand from my knee to my inner thigh, stopping short of the edge of my lace underwear. He resumed kissing above my navel and then trailed downwards. His hands tugged my underwear down as I slightly lifted my hips to assist. He pulled away to remove them. I felt vulnerable but I felt good. I expected him to remove his now tented jeans and take me; instead he ran his hands along the inside of my thigh as his lips followed suit. I could feel my juices running from my slit as he got close to my now very swollen lips. Never had a man put his lips so close to my pussy. Anticipation riled in me with the thought of what I would be lucky enough to experience. He slid backwards as he spread my legs just a bit wider. He kissed the last space between my lips and my inner thigh. I am certain I was about to cum right then, feeling his warm breath on my slippery lips. I moaned and my mind drifted but I was awakened with a rush of pleasure as he flashed his tongue against my pussy lips in a quick movement. My body went rigid for a moment and his stare bore down on me as he realized that he had me. He smiled an almost evil grin had I not known better, and slipped his tongue into my wet slit and parted my folds. I was now assaulting the covers and arching my back. I wanted to scream but my mouth failed me. He ran his tongue upwards stopping short of my now pulsing clit. His tongue slipped over my lips and then into my pussy. Then in a sudden move his mouth clamped over my clit and it was over for me. Valentine's Day Renewal "Oh Fuck, Bradley!" my upper body flew from the bed but he didn't relent. He sucked and nibbled at my clit aggressively. My hand found his hair and I ground my cunt against his face. I felt a finger parting my lips as he released my nub and his tongue followed his digit. He slowly went upwards to circle my nub and I felt his finger slip into me. I could feeling pushing against my wall, eliciting a feeling I'd never felt before. He clasped harder on my clit and worked his finger furiously inside. "Stop, please, Oh god Bradley, please! FUUUUUCK!!!" he pulled away his lips and finger suddenly and my body tensed as cream began to release from my cunt. "Bradley! Ahhhhhhhhhh!" I screamed on top of my lungs. "Fuck yes!" he said as he put his lips to my pussy and sucked all of me. My body quaked and trembled and I slowly lowered my back to the bed. He released his grip on my cunt and its tenderness made me quiver again. He placed feathered kisses against my lips but I shook and jerked away. He conceded and slowly rose up licking his fingers and wiping his mouth and staring down at me. He stood and tossed his shirt, loosened his belt and pulled off his pants and boxers, exposing the rod causing his tent. 'Oh god he's tall, at least 7", and that girth........it's been so long!' I worried my mind. It was probably apparent on my face. He climbed back over me and kissed my neck, "We'll go slowly, alright," he whispered, then covered my lips with his. My mind cleared, I tasted myself on him and felt my body cave beneath his. He moved slowly and his bulbous head found my opening and I flinched. He put his head to the side of my neck, "I'll be gentle, I promise. I love you." Then I felt it brace against my opening and force its way in. Pleasure outweighed pain, or maybe the pain was the pleasure. I have no idea. "Shit, you're tight!" his body tensed and he froze before slowly inching inwards. It felt like he was expanding towards his base. My body struggled to accept his rigid mass. He kissed my lips and started to ease in and out slowly. My fingers glued to his back, trying to draw blood. I moaned against his mouth. I began to feel a tremor move over me as my juices coated his cock and he slipped in and out of my cunt easier. "Bradley......I'm going to cum!" "Mmmhm, Sara, I can't hold back! Aaaahhhhh!!!" he pushed forward trying to reach further within, sending pulses of hot cum within my walls. "Oh God Bradley!" I rocked through my own wave of pleasure but along the way our bodies moved together. I felt more of his weight against me before he rolled to his side and his cock still rather firm slowly slid out. He pulled me closely and kissed my neck, "I'll be right back, I need some water." My body felt cold and incomplete as he moved away. I found myself beneath the covers just as he was re-entering. He walked towards the bed with one hand behind his back, his muscles still tensed, his cock swinging as he strode. "Why are you hiding your body?" "I was actually cold," I smiled knowing we both knew my self-consciousness presided. He slid beneath the covers as well and he gently tugged the comforter from my breasts. "God I love these," he smiled kissing them all over. "What's in your hand?" I asked curiously. "A surprise," "I don't want to go down this road. Can we pretend it not the weekend it really is?" "Sara, I love you, so stop talking," he laughed and kissed my forehead. He put the rectangular black box on top of the covers. "Open it," he smiled against my shoulder. I looked at him, almost to tears. "I'm doing it tonight, so it's technically not 'that day'. Don't cry. Just open it." I moved my hands to pick up the box, they were obviously trembling as I was struggling to open it. Against the tan interior lay a slender necklace appeared to be covered in tiny diamonds with a square pendant of more diamonds surrounding a sole red stone. I moved my fingers to touch it but drew back as though I was a child about to break something. "The core is surrounded by the colder and more common diamonds, your past and what you believe to be the most relevant part of you, but the truth is that it enhances the beauty of the center Painite, a piece far more rare and valuable than a regular diamond. Never take it off, and see it on the days you only see your scars." He kissed my shoulder as he took the box from me to remove the necklace. I was still frozen, just sitting there, quiet tears rolled down my face. He placed the necklace around my neck and kissed above it, "I love you, Sara." I turned to face him finally, "I am not there yet, but I know I can love you, and I will, please wait for me." "You have my word, besides I'm persistent and pompous," he chuckled and kissed me. We held each other firmly, and my eyes glanced to the wall clock across from the bed. It was 1:15AM; he'd given me a Valentine's Day that would conquer all my others without my knowing. I held him tighter if even possible, closed my eyes and welcomed a day of loving memories and a new meaning for this day.