10 comments/ 43308 views/ 20 favorites Generosity Rewarded By: Rediger "Come back to bed baby..." Brent stood at the window looking out over the multicolored displays of the Vegas skyline, fingering the worn string of beads around his neck and wondering what ever happened to the old man who had changed his life forever. It had been nothing; a simple act of generosity -- something that anyone would have done -- but it had triggered a series of fortunate events that resulted in him finding the needle of happiness in a haystack of despair. Nikki's moist breath tickled the back of his neck a split second before he felt her snuggle up behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist and pressing her warm, naked body against his back. She whispered, "Come back to bed baby. You've done all you can for today." She raked her manicured fingernails down across his abs as she slid a practiced hand past the waistband of his pajamas. "Let me take your mind off it for a while," she cooed. An hour later Nikki was draped naked across him, her golden hair splayed across his chest as she slept soundlessly. Brent envied the way she could just turn off her mind and fall asleep she soon as closed her eyes. He had no such switch and knew he would still be awake for hours to come, thinking of that night when the old man saved him. * * * The day had started like any other normal day. Brent had gone to work and spent most of the day on the phone trying to close a deal with a new client. He was just an average investment banker, one of those many that garnered small fees while the elite few played golf or sat in bars and managed the "big deals". He had asked many times how they did it, and their reply was always the same, "Just lucky, I guess." It was the last day of the month and at midday his boss had come by and handed him an envelope. Apparently Brent's numbers just weren't good enough and he was being let go. So were a number of other people but Brent had hoped his friends and connections would protect him. Disappointed, he cleaned out his office and then called his wife Evelyn to tell her the bad news. Evelyn was the love of his life. Brent had met her right after grad school and they had been married a year later in a lavish ceremony paid for by her parents. She was everything a budding executive could ever want in a wife; beautiful, charming, well educated, and good in bed. Lately she had been a little distant, but Evelyn had supported him through all the other ups and downs of his career and Brent was sure she would do so again. Imagine his surprise when she told him not to bother coming home; she was through with him. Bewildered, Brent called his best friend, hoping he could stay with him until Evelyn came to her senses. David was sympathetic, but said, "I don't think that will work out since Evelyn and I have been having an affair for the last six months." "Well," thought Brent, "that certainly explains a few things." After that a stunned calm came over him. Some men might have considered suicide, but for Brent the only conceivable option was to go to home; back to his roots; back to the place where he had always felt most comfortable, Las Vegas. After all, what did he have to lose? He drove to the bank, cashed his last paycheck, cleaned out his savings, bought a couple changes of clothes and a small duffel bag, and headed to the airport. * * * Brent tipped the dealer with his last $25 chip and walked away from the table. He had a surprising spring in his step considering he had lost over $5000 in the last 4 hours playing Blackjack. It might have been funny if it wasn't so depressing. He realized ironically that his luck was the only thing in his life that hadn't changed in the last 24 hours. He chuckled, "At least Evelyn will never see a penny of that money!" Completely broke except for some loose change and the two crisp fifty dollar bills he had stashed in his wallet, Brent picked up his duffle from the coat check and headed down the strip looking for a coffee shop. He needed a quiet place to hang out for a few hours while he decided what he was going to do next. It was a cool, crisp night -- typical of winter in the desert -- and Brent turned up his coat collar to ward off the chill. He had been walking for some time when he came across an obviously homeless old man huddled against a brick wall, hawking trinkets from a small cardboard box. Stopping, he squatted in front of the old beggar to see what he had. Brent was one of those kind people who were always willing to toss a little spare change to anyone less fortunate than themselves. His parents had taught him that no matter how bad things were, there was always someone you could help. Brent had always been respectful of that lesson even though Evelyn had constantly chastised him for it saying, "Why do you always do that. You know they'll just spend it on booze and drugs!" "What do you have there mister?" Brent asked sincerely. The old man appeared to be frail, but when he looked up at Brent there was a spark of life in his eyes that was somehow inspirational. He motioned for Brent to come closer and showed him the box saying, "Sacred charms." Brent could see that they were just dime store trinkets and other worthless junk. He asked the old man, "When was the last time you ate?" The old man sighed, "The spirit of the lights provides for me." Brent gently helped him up and said, "Why don't you come with me?" There was a diner on the corner just ahead. Brent led the old man inside and sat him down in a booth despite the disapproving looks from the waitress, and then went to the counter asking for a telephone book. He looked up the nearest shelter and found that it was only three blocks away. As he walked down the street with the old man he said, "My name is Brent. What do they call you?" The old man paused as if trying to remember something long forgotten, "Most just call me names I don't understand. Long ago I was called Jacob." "Well, it is nice to meet you Jacob. Let's get you someplace warm for the night." The shelter was a typical mission run by a church. Brent led Jacob inside and became worried when he saw that the place was packed. There was an attractive young woman behind a counter doling out meals and coffee. He walked over to her and asked, "Do you have room for one more? I don't think he'll make it through the night outside." He saw the woman's face soften, and she said, "Sure. We'll find a spot for him. Just go sit down and I'll come help you in a bit." Brent found a place at one of the tables and sat down across from Jacob. He watched the young woman as she served soup and bread to those who wanted it. She was quite pretty and well dressed, obviously a volunteer. It was amazing how her smile brightened up the depressing room. After a few minutes she came over and brought Jacob a bowl of soup and a large, hot dinner roll. Then she sat down beside Brent. "Sorry it took so long but it has been a busy night." She held out her hand, "By the way, my name is Nikki Blake." He took her hand gently and shook it saying, "Nice to meet you Nikki, my name is Brent Spaulding." "Where did you find him?" "Only a couple blocks from here. I was just out for a walk and I ran across him." Nikki asked, "Do you live nearby?" Brent paused for a second, "No. I just flew in today." Nikki smiled, "Ah. I see. And how was your luck?" "Same as usual. All bad," Brent replied with a smile on his face. Nikki laughed. She had a husky, sultry, laugh that he found quite intriguing. "Well, you seem pretty upbeat about it. Where are you staying? You are quite a long way from the strip." "Oh...I am heading to my sisters place, a few miles out of town and I really should get going. Can you make sure Jacob gets this in the morning?" Brent handed her his last $100." Nikki said, "Sure. I'll see to it." Brent leaned over and said, "Jacob, I have to be going now. You'll be safe and warm here." Jacob looked up at him. Suddenly there was a brilliant fire in his eyes. "Take this," he said. "I will need it no more." He handed Brent a colorful but worn, old strand of beads. "Remember, it is a gift from the lights. Respect it always." Brent smiled and said, "Thanks Jacob." Then he looked at Nikki and said, "It was very nice meeting you, Nikki." Suddenly, Nikki had a curious look on her face. She smiled and said haltingly, "It was very nice meeting you Brent. Good luck." Brent walked out the door and into the cold, feeling quite happy and content. There was something about doing a good deed that always made his own problems seem less important. He fingered the tiny beads in his pocket and wondered what Jacob had meant when he said, "The spirit of the lights provides for me." Then he slipped the beads over his head and chuckled, "I sure hope he is right." A minute later, Nikki came running up behind him. "Brent, wait a minute!" He stopped and turned as she caught up to him. "That was a very kind thing you just did. Was that your last $100?" Brent nodded, "Yes. I figured Jacob needed it more than me." Nikki smiled, "I thought so. What are you going to do now?" Brent said, "I don't really know. I was planning on thumbing a ride out to my sister's place in the morning." Nikki thought for a moment then said, "Look, you seem like a really nice guy. Why don't you come home with me? You can sleep in my spare room tonight. Then tomorrow I'll drive you out to your sister's place." Brent sighed, "That's awfully kind of you, but I couldn't impose." Nikki smiled and said, "Generosity should always be rewarded. I insist." * * * Nikki's place was back on the strip, in one of those expensive, luxury high-rise condo buildings. Although only one floor, it was quite large and ultra-modern; obviously designed for entertaining, with a large entryway and living room with a spectacular view of the city. It was just the kind of place you expected a classy woman like Nikki to live in. Brent whistled, "This is quite a place." Nikki laughed, "Thanks. Make yourself at home. Are you hungry?" "Uh, now that you mention it, yes. I'll have something if you are." "Sandwiches OK?" She asked. "Yeah, that sounds great." Brent had been watching her closely since they walked into the place. He couldn't shake the feeling that he had seen Nikki someplace before. Maybe in the newspaper or maybe they went to school together. He asked, "Nikki, have you always lived in Vegas?" She said, "No. I retired a couple of years ago and moved here." Brent thought, "Retired?" Then he said, "Nikki, I know this sounds crazy, but have we met before?" Nikki laughed, "I was wondering when you were going to ask that." She tossed him a beer and said, "Check out that bookshelf beside the TV." Brent walked over and looked at the bookshelf. It was filled with skin magazines, and a number of XXX Rated DVDs. Brent looked closer and saw that the cover of several of the magazines featured, "Nikki Lust." Even though she looked quite different on the covers, he instantly realized it was the same Nikki who was making sandwiches. "You're Nikki Lust?" She smiled, "I used to be Nikki Lust. Now I am just plain old Nikki Blake again." She brought out the sandwiches and said, "Let's eat." They sat quietly for a moment, munching on the sandwiches and Nikki appraised Brent. He looked like stereotypical business man; obviously well educated, maybe thirty years old, six feet tall, with a handsome face and athletic build. He had a full head of dark, wavy hair to go with his hazel eyes and a cute smile. But it was the touching way he had worried about the old man that had sparked her interest. She asked, "So what brings you to Vegas, besides the gambling that is?" Brent thought for a moment and said, "Well, I needed a change in my life. I was born and raised here, so I came back to start over." "Any family?" Brent shrugged, "Just my sister; my parents are dead. My wife...let's just say that part of my life is over." He wasn't her usual type, but Nikki felt attracted to Brent even though they had just met. There was something special about him that she couldn't put her finger on. She thought, "Well, I'll just have to get to know him better." Brent asked, "What about you? Do you have any family nearby? Nikki said, "My family are all still back in California. I see them at Christmas, but otherwise I stay out of their lives, for obvious reasons." Brent took another bite of his sandwich and said, "I think I only ever saw one of your movies. I am not even sure I remember it." Nikki said, "That's not surprising, I only made 10 movies." Brent said, "Why did you stop?" "That's easy. I good friend of mine in the business contracted AIDs. It scared the shit out of me, so I quit." "What happened to your friend?" "She died last year." Brent said sincerely, "I am sorry to hear that." Nikki said quietly, "Yeah, me too." Brent asked, "I thought everyone in the business was supposed to be tested..." Nikki said, "They are. But somehow someone slipped through. I've had myself tested a bunch of times since I quit. So far I am good." There was an awkward silence and Brent asked nervously, "I hope you don't think I was being too nosey." Nikki smiled and said, "No. It's OK. I don't mind talking about it. Some day I hope to make my story into a movie -- a real movie -- if I can find someone good to write the script." "If you don't mind my asking, how did you get started?" Nikki's eyes lit up, "Well, not the usual way. Most of the girls in porn have either been abused or were prostitutes before they got into film. But I got into it simply because I enjoy it when people watch me having sex. Does that shock you?" Brent said, "I guess so." Nikki continued, "It started while I was at Berkley. Would you be surprised to know I have a Masters Degree in Economics? Anyway, my boyfriend and I were doing it in his room one day when his roommate walked in on us. At first I wanted to stop, but my boyfriend just kept going. His roommate sat on the bed opposite from us watching. Then he took out his cock and started jacking off right there. My boyfriend kept right on pumping away at me but I couldn't tear my eyes away from his roommate. When I saw him cum, I had the most powerful orgasm I had ever felt." Brent sucked in a breath and said, "My god." He was already feeling uncomfortable, and now his cock was starting to get hard. Nikki laughed, "That's just the start of it. It was so exciting for both of us that my boyfriend and I began looking for ways to do it in front of other people. Every time we did I came harder than the last. Once we did it in broad daylight in the middle of a crowded park. I was completely nude and sat on him, riding him like a crazy cowgirl." "Eventually we discovered video. We taped ourselves doing it in every possible position and then showed it to our friends. Sometimes I would cum just from watching their reaction. After we broke up, my boyfriend was nice enough to let me keep the tapes. One day after I graduated, I walked into an adult film producer's office and showed him the tapes. He hired me on the spot." Brent gasped, "That is an incredible story. You have obviously done very well for yourself." Nikki replied, "My degree taught me the value of money so I have been careful and a bit lucky. I certainly made out better than most. Those movies sometimes pay a lot, but a girl needs to have something really special if she expects to earn the really big bucks. Pretty faces and big boobs are a dime a dozen in that industry." "So what was your something special?" Nikki looked at him with a wicked grin on her face, "Why don't you let me show you?" Brent practically held his breath while Nikki loaded a disc into the DVD player and started the movie. It wasn't long before he saw what had earned Nikki so much money. She was simply magical on the screen, extremely sexy, and powerfully erotic. Every scene seemed like art, and it was clear that she enjoyed her craft. When it was over, Brent was powerfully aroused and unable to hide it. He looked over at Nikki and said, "My god, you are so sexy on the screen. I can't believe how turned on I got watching that." Then he quickly regretted it. "Oh, please forgive me. I didn't mean to say that." Nikki smiled and said, "It's OK. I was hoping that you would feel that way." Then she took Brent by the hand and led him into the bedroom. Sitting down at her makeup table, she applied some lipstick and eye liner, and then let down her hair. Finally she stood again and slowly stripped off her sweater and bra, after which she shimmed out of her jeans and kicked them aside. When Brent saw Nikki's naked body, he felt his pulse quicken and his breathe catch in his throat. She had carefully transformed herself into Nikki Lust; a blonde haired, blue eyed sex goddess with mischief on her mind and sin in her heart. Her body was simply spectacular with firm, full breasts, a slender waist, long shapely legs, and perfect, heart shaped ass. Smiling seductively, her tongue slid slowly over her half parted lips as she spread her legs slightly as she struck a provocative pose. Brent gasped, "Oh my god." Nikki moved closer to him and helped him undress. Then she shifted him slightly and knelt before him. When she wrapped her warm, wet, slippery lips around the head of his swollen cock, he thought he was going to pass out. As she slowly began to suck and lick him, Brent realized she was watching his reaction in the mirror. Brent groaned loudly as Nikki worked her magic on his hard wand. She gave the best head imaginable; a long, slow and extremely wet blowjob that was as erotic to watch as it was to experience. She moaned and hummed constantly as she licked and slurped, bringing him close to the edge several times, building his orgasm to a level he had never felt. Not only did she swallow when he came, but she kept on going afterwards, keeping him hard until he nearly came a second time. After that, Brent hungrily ate her sexy, naked pussy, determined to return the pleasure she had given him. Nikki softly encouraged him, guiding his slippery tongue and fingers with gentle moans of support until she exploded in a body thrashing orgasm, crying out his name. "Oh Brent, Ahhhh...It's so good." She was soon ready for more and hissed, "Oh Brent, give it to me now. I need to feel your hard cock inside me." Then Brent learned the most amazing thing about Nikki. She could fuck even better than she sucked. When he penetrated her, it felt like his cock had slipped into a hot, slippery glove that was perfectly formed just for him. When he began to move, she moved with him, kneading and gripping his throbbing dick, extracting pleasure from it and returning it multiplied. She had such control over the muscles in her cunt that Brent was convinced she could make a statue cum. And cum he did, spurting again and again until his balls ached and his poor, tortured cock would rise no more. Exhausted, he gathered Nikki into his arms and slept like a dead man. Lying in Brent's arms, Nikki listened to his slow, even breathing and the rhythmic beating of his heart. She had been with many men in her life, and a number of them had actually been lovers, but what she had experienced with him surpassed anything she had ever known or even imagined. It was as if Brent somehow knew her needs and desires better then she did. Nikki was an intelligent, logical, educated woman but right now she felt like a cliché in a bad romance novel. Even though they had only met hours ago, she suddenly couldn't imagine her life without this man. She knew virtually nothing about him but she also knew her place was with him, caring for him and being cared for by him. It defied all logic and common sense, but she didn't care one bit. The last thought she had before drifting off to sleep was "I think I am in love." Generosity Rewarded * * * "Good morning. Or should I say good afternoon?" Nikki said. Brent cracked open one eye and saw her standing at the foot of the bed, hands on hips and smiling brightly. Although no longer the irresistible goddess that had ensnared him last night, she still managed to look incredibly hot in a tight, sexy exercise outfit. Brent cracked a smile, "Good morning to you too." Nikki said, "You will find clean towels and your duffel in the bathroom. I also put a fresh razor and a tooth brush out for you. I am going down for my work out." Brent teased her, "Exercise? Why? How can you improve the body of Venus?" Nikki smiled, "Cute. I only have the best body money can buy, and it won't stay that way if I don't work out. Make yourself at home. I'll be back in about an hour." Brent started, "B-but...," not really knowing what he wanted to say. Nikki walked over and stopped him with a kiss. "We'll talk when I get back," she said, and then walked out of the room. Brent flopped back onto the bed and closed his eyes for a moment wondering if this was all just a dream. He was still too beaten down to think that maybe his luck had changed. Certainly meeting Nikki was very fortunate. She was an incredibly beautiful, intelligent, and sexy woman, and he sensed a powerful bond between them already. But when she learned he had no money, no job, no home, and no future it would definitely become embarrassing for both of them. The last thing he wanted was to cause her any pain, so he decided reluctantly it would be best for both of them if he was gone when she got back. Twenty minutes later Brent came out of the shower, freshly scrubbed and shaved, wearing the last of his clean clothes. Hoping to pack and leave quickly, he was quite surprised to find the bed was made, the drapes had been drawn back, and his clothes from last night were missing. Curious, he walked into the living room and found a somewhat plump woman dusting and straightening up. Brent said, "Oh, hello. I didn't know anyone else was here." The woman smiled, "Good afternoon Mister Brent. Miss Nikki said I should make you some lunch." The smell of fresh coffee wafted through the air. Brent said, "That coffee smells great. If you can put it in a paper cup I'll take some with me." The woman looked puzzled for a moment, then said quickly, "Oh no. You cannot leave. Miss Nikki will be very upset." "But, I need to be going." The woman insisted, "No. You cannot go. Your clothes are still in the wash. Please, it will make Miss Nikki very unhappy." Brent knew he should just walk out. As he slipped on his jacket, he suddenly felt Jacob's beads rubbing against his chest. Against his better judgment, he abruptly changed his mind and decided to stay. He took off his jacket and asked, "What is your name?" The woman said, "My name is Maria. I keep house for Miss Nikki. Please sit. I'll bring the coffee." Brent sat at the table and Maria rushed off, returning a few moments later with a coffee tray. He poured himself a cup of the hot, black liquid and two sips later, he realized he was ravenous. Maria asked, "Will you have lunch now, Mister Brent?" He smiled and said, "Only if you sit down and keep me company." Maria nodded and said, "OK Mister Brent." She walked back into the kitchen and after a few minutes came back with a steaming bowl of hearty chili and some home made corn bread. She sat and waited while Brent had a couple spoonfuls, then smiled proudly when he nodded his head and said, "Very good!" They started chatting and Brent learned that Nikki had rescued Maria and her three children from a shelter five years ago. Nikki had given her a job, helped her divorce her abusive husband, and then loaned her the money to buy a house. Maria told him proudly that next year her oldest daughter was going to UNLV on a scholarship that Nikki had helped her win. Right after that Nikki walked in, "So I see you've met Maria. Be careful, that stuff will grow hair on your chest," she said, pointing at the chili. She snagged a little scrap of corn bread from his plate and said casually, "Don't go anywhere. I am going to grab a quick shower." Brent relaxed and had another cup of coffee while Maria wandered off to finish the laundry and her other chores. When Nikki came back, she sat down at the table and poured herself a cup of coffee. There was an uncomfortable pause while she took a couple sips. Finally Brent broke the ice and said, "You are a very mysterious woman, Nikki Blake. You are incredibly beautiful, intelligent, obviously wealthy, and by far the sexiest woman I have ever met. But you take in strays and do volunteer work in a soup kitchen. How is it that a wonderful woman like you isn't married?" Nikki blushed. Then after a short pause said, "Just so you know, I didn't plan what happened last night, and I also don't regret a minute of it. Something about the kindness you showed Jacob last night touched my heart deeply. After that I felt a connection with you. I know you felt it too." Now it was Brent's turn to blush. "So where do we go from here?" Nikki sighed and got serious, "Brent, if you still want to drive out to your sister's place, I'll be happy to take you. But if you can stay for a few hours more, I would like to introduce you to someone first." Brent asked, "Why?" Nikki smiled, "Because I know you won't take charity from me, and because I think you need a job, and because I'd like to see you again." Brent thought for a moment then said truthfully, "Nikki, that's very kind. But you don't know what you are getting into with me. I am still married, although not for much longer. I am not lazy, but my track record in business isn't so great. I am broke, unemployed, and lately my luck in everything has been just plain bad." Nikki smiled softly, "I don't care about any of that. All I know is you are smart, honest, kind, and loving. Besides, maybe your luck is changing. After all, you met me didn't you?" * * * A couple hours later they pulled up in front of a small office building on the outskirts of the city. The sign on the building said 'JL Security Innovations.' As they walked inside Brent said, "Maybe this is a bad idea. I don't know anything about security. Who are we meeting anyway?" Nikki said, "We are meeting Jay Levinson, the CEO of this business. I know he is looking for someone to head up a special project, and I think you are just the guy he needs." Brent asked, "Jay Levinson...from here in Vegas? I went to grad school with a guy named Jay Levinson." "Well, isn't that lucky. I had no idea." "Well I don't know how lucky it is. Jay and I weren't friends. In fact we just barely knew each other." Just then Jay's secretary greeted them and ushered them into Jay's office. Jay smiled and said, "Nikki, how good to see you again." Then he embraced her warmly. Nikki kissed him on the cheek and smiled, "Jay. I would like you to meet a very good friend of mine..." Jay finished the sentence for her, "Brent Spaulding. It's been a long time. What have you been doing with yourself?" He shook Brent's hand enthusiastically. They all sat down and Brent said, "Since we last saw each other, I moved east and eventually got married. I've been working in investment banking with a couple of small boutique firms." Jay said pensively, "That's very interesting. What brings you back here?" Brent decided that the truth was the best approach, "I got fired last week and my wife left me. So I decided to move back here and start over." Jay thought for a moment and then said, "Thanks for being honest Brent. It means a lot. And your timing couldn't be better. It just so happens that I am looking for someone with contacts in investment banking to head up a special project. Nikki knows this and that is obviously why she brought you here. If you are interested, I'd be happy to have you come to work for me. I can't pay you much salary, but I'll include some stock options that will be worth quite a bit if we are successful." Brent couldn't believe his luck. There was only one explanation; Jay wanted to take his company public. In a flash it dawned on him; this was the big one, the big deal that all the elite bankers always talked about. For once he happened to be in the right place at the right time, and it was dropping right into his lap. Jay looked at Nikki and said excitedly, "I have a really good feeling about this." Then he said to Brent, "Take a few days to think about it and get back to me. But don't take too long, I need to move soon." Brent smiled and said, "I can let you know right now. I'll take the job." Jay shook his hand earnestly and said, "Great. Come by next week and I'll have your contract ready. Welcome aboard Brent." After they left Brent thought, "That was too easy." He asked Nikki, "How did you know Jay was looking for an investment banker? And how could you possibly know that was my business?" Nikki said simply, "I was one of Jay's first investors and I am still on his board of directors, so I knew he was thinking of taking the company public. But I didn't know you were a banker." "Did you ask Jay to hire me?" "No. I absolutely did not. In fact, I haven't even seen him in a month. I just knew he needed someone, that's all. The rest is just a coincidence." Brent was still a little suspicious, and thought "More like blind, dumb luck if you ask me." But then he decided that with all he had been through recently, he deserved a little good luck. He smiled and said, "Thanks Nikki. Thanks for everything." She said, "You're welcome. Now, let's go and celebrate!" As Nikki drove them back into the city, Brent had a chance to think. It did seem like an odd coincidence that his luck had suddenly improved. Everything had changed for him right after he met the old man, Jacob. He put his hand on his chest, feeling the worn string of tiny beads under his shirt and for the first time sensed something; a force from within himself that he had never felt before. It was still only early evening but a slight overcast was bringing with it a spectacular sunset. They crested a small hill and saw the last streaks of sunlight dance over the tall steel and glass structures of the strip, combining with the bright, multicolored lights of the hotels and casinos. It was a beautiful sight and Brent felt a surge of energy flow through him, almost like he was drawing strength from the lights. Then he recalled that Jacob had mentioned something about the lights providing for him before he had given Brent the beads. Brent wondered if the two things were somehow connected. He quickly asked Nikki, "Can we swing by the shelter? I want to talk to Jacob." Nikki smiled, "That's really sweet Brent. But you should know that they don't always stick around. Sometimes they only stay a night then move on." "Well, I want to stop and check anyway." "OK. Sure. It's only a few minutes away." Father Hackett was apologetic. "Sorry Nikki, but Jacob left early this morning. And despite my best efforts, I couldn't get him to take the money." Brent asked anxiously, "Did he say where he was going? Did you see which way he went?" Father Hackett replied, "He only said it was time to go home." Brent sighed, "OK. Thanks Father. Please keep the money to help with the shelter." Father Hackett said, "Oh, I can't. Jacob made me promise to return it to you. He was quite insistent." He handed Brent the $100. Brent felt bad about taking the money, but he felt even worse about Jacob. The old man was out there somewhere, wandering around in the cold. He wanted to do something but had no idea what. Nikki pulled his arm and said, "Come on Brent. You've done all you can for him." As they walked out of the shelter he asked her, "How do you do it? How can you come here and see these people and feel like you've done enough?" Nikki sighed, "I do all that I can and sometimes more. But giving them every penny I have won't even come close to solving the problem. When you have worked with the homeless for a while you find that they don't expect you to suffer just because they are suffering. A lot of them don't really want any help at all, and the ones that do, don't usually want a handout. At the end of every day I ask myself, 'Did I help someone today?' And if the answer is yes, then I know I made a difference." Brent realized Nikki was rationalizing. It was obviously her way of dealing with the frustration of not being able to fix something that seemed unfixable. Nikki brightened, "I thought we were going to celebrate." Brent shrugged, "OK. I guess you are right." She smiled, "I know the perfect place." Nikki drove to a little Italian restaurant just off the strip where she was obviously a regular. They were escorted right to a secluded little table away from the bustle of the main dining area. Once their order had been placed, they chatted idly, sipping wine while the chef prepared their meal. Nikki was an enchanting date, and Brent soon forgot about Jacob and the shelter. A couple hours later, his appetite sated and a little buzzed from the wine they walked out of the restaurant. Brent's thoughts were thoroughly indecent as he pulled Nikki into a warm embrace and kissed her. He asked, "How can I ever thank you for all that you've done for me?" Nikki kissed him back and than said, "I can think of a few ways..." She slid her hand down over his stiffening penis and said, "And I think I just found one." Then she giggled and pushed him away, "But not just yet. Let's go do something fun." Brent gazed at the skyline and focused on a nearby casino, which just happened to be the same one where he lost all of his money only a day earlier. He felt a sudden rush of excitement and a bold, new confidence compelling him to try his luck. He nodded at the casino, "Want to try your luck?" Nikki smiled, "Is that $100 burning a hole in your pocket?" Brent laughed, "I guess it is." Then he said more seriously, "I really want another crack at that place." Nikki smiled, "OK. But you are on your own. I never gamble." Brent couldn't believe his ears, "You live in Vegas and you don't gamble?" She snuggled up against him, "Nope. But I do like to watch. Let's just see how far you can play that $100." * * * Brent sat down at the very same Blackjack table, in the very same seat where he had lost $5000 only yesterday. Nikki was standing close behind him, sipping on a drink, looking like one of those fabulous women you always see wrapped around James Bond. She kissed him for luck and he placed his single, $100 chip on the bet circle and waited for the cards to be dealt. On the very first hand Brent drew 20 on three cards and beat the dealer's 19. On the very next hand, the dealer busted and everybody won. An hour later, he was up $1,000 and clearly on a roll. When there was a pause while they switched dealers, he turned to Nikki and said, "I feel much better now. If you are bored, we can go someplace else." Nikki's blue eyes were sparkling and she exclaimed, "Are you kidding? You haven't lost more than a three hands in the last hour. This is very exciting." Brent grinned, "OK. But as soon as I lose two in a row, we are out of here." The lucky streak persisted and Brent continued to win. At one point when he was up $5,000, he considered cashing out, but Nikki convinced him to stick with it. When he finally hit $15,000 he decided that it was enough for one night. He tipped the dealer $200, and a moment later a casino security man showed up with paperwork for him to sign. The security man left with his chips and returned a couple minutes later with a check for his winnings. As they drove the short distance to Nikki's place, they laughed and talked excitedly about how Brent had played hand after hand, marveling at how he always seemed to make the right moves. He had never experienced such a run of luck in his life, and he hoped it would continue for a while longer. In the elevator on the way up to her condo, he pulled Nikki close and said, "I couldn't have done it without you." Then he kissed her passionately until the elevator doors opened on her floor. Nikki opened the door and pulled him inside, kissing Brent with an intensity that surprised her. "Give me a few minutes," she whispered and then disappeared into the bedroom, closing the door behind her. Sitting on the bed for a moment, she tried to catch her breath, confused by the excitement she felt. Ever since meeting Brent yesterday, Nikki had noticed that her heart seemed to beat a little faster whenever she was near him. But tonight she had sensed something in him that was especially attractive and incredibly arousing. The whole time she had watched him in the casino; her pussy had been wet and throbbing. And when Brent had kissed her in the elevator she had experienced a short but powerful orgasm. No one had ever made her cum by just kissing her before. When Nikki walked into the living room again, she found Brent standing by the large picture window, looking out over the skyline. She snuggled up against his back, put her arms around him, and started to kiss his neck. He felt warm and tingly, almost electric and she gasped softly as she felt another wave of excitement course through her body, ending up in her already wet pussy. Brent never took his eyes off the lights as he said, "I can't believe how lucky I got tonight. First thing tomorrow I am giving half of this money to Father Hackett." Nikki kissed his neck again and whispered, "The night isn't over baby. I think you are about to get lucky again." Brent turned, seeing for the first time that she had again transformed herself into Nikki Lust. Her golden hair was cascading down over her perfect breasts which were practically spilling out of a sexy, sheer mesh babydoll nightie. The tiny g-string panties she wore underneath left just enough to the imagination to entice and arouse, drawing attention to her long, shapely legs which were perched on top of three inch spiked slippers. But it was Nikki's deep blue eyes, smoldering with desire and her highly sensual mouth, painted a deep ruby red that riveted his attention. Soundlessly Brent picked her up and carried her to the bedroom, kissing her hungrily, matching her raging desire with his own. Nikki let out a low, whimpering moan as his tongue parted her hot lips and slowly explored her mouth. She gently responded with the longest, sweetest, most sensual kiss he had ever experienced, slowing him while still fanning the flames of his desire. Reluctantly, he laid her gently on the cool, crisp satin sheets, overwhelmed by her incredible physical beauty and powerless to resist her. Without a thought, Nikki assumed an alluring, highly erotic pose; becoming a living, breathing, sculpture; an incarnation of pure lust, every glance an invitation, every movement a temptation. It was pure instinct for her, ingrained in her DNA and as natural as breathing. She was simply reacting to his intense need and strong male presence; as powerless to stop it as he was to resist it. "My God Nikki, you are so beautiful." Never taking his eyes from her face, Brent slowly removed his clothes and then dropped his boxers; his long, purple headed shaft jutting out sharply from his body and bobbing in time with his racing heartbeat. Nikki slid her tongue slowly across her lips and Brent groaned as he felt himself stiffen and stretch even more. Aching for her touch, he moved to the side of the bed, throbbing with anticipation. Nikki never did anything sexual with haste. To her, every position, every activity was an opportunity to savor, to prolong the pleasure, and delay the inevitable. Even her orgasms were long and drawn out; tremendous releases of pent up tension resulting in indescribable delight and unbelievable gratification for both her and her partner. Generosity Rewarded "Mmmm," she moaned as she took Brent into her mouth and teased him with her skilled tongue. She sucked him slowly, deliberately, and masterfully; enjoying the feel of his smooth hardness against her slippery tongue and using her soft fingers to explore him in all the right places. She took her time with him, nudging him closer and closer to the edge, feeling her own climax building as well. Nikki paused, "Mmmm, your cock tastes sooo gooood. I could do this all night." Brent relaxed and allowed Nikki to take control, enjoying her talented mouth and hands, paralyzed and feeling absolutely nothing but pleasure. Watching Nikki suck his cock was like watching an erotic fantasy; everything she did with her mouth and tongue was both visually and physically stimulating. Just when he thought his balls might to burst from sheer pleasure, she gently pushed him over the edge, and he felt the tremendous pressure in him release and surge upward. "Uh, ah, ahhhhhhhh!" Brent groaned. The last thing Brent saw before he erupted was Nikki's outstretched tongue and open mouth. An instant later, his cock was spitting like some kind of tortured worm. Spurt after spurt arced through the air painting her lovely face and tongue with speckles of creamy white. As soon as the first hot, white strand hit her face, Nikki felt an orgasm surge through her with an intensity that she didn't think was possible. She thrust her hand between her thighs and rubbed her sensitive clit, sustaining and prolonging her orgasm as Brent groaned and spewed cum all over her. When he collapsed onto the bed, she pounced onto his cock and sucked him until his spasms subsided and his milky, white juice stopped flowing. Brent lay panting and gasping for air as Nikki continued to suck his gradually softening cock. As if somehow compelled, he reached up and touched the string of beads around his neck. Instantly he felt a new surge of energy flow through his body. His cock rapidly hardened and Nikki pulled her mouth off him pleading, "Fuck me. Please fuck me right now!" Nikki had fucked cocks that were much larger then Brent's, but when he tore off her g-string and entered her she felt a wave of sensation unlike any she had ever encountered. As he started to thrust, she closed her eyes and was overwhelmed by so much joy and delight that was almost unbearable. She matched his rhythmic movements; using her talented muscles to try and return at least some of the incredible pleasure she was experiencing. But after no more than a dozen thrusts, she was unexpectedly overtaken by another climax, just as intense and overpowering as the last. She cried out loudly, "Oh! Oh! Ohhhhhhh!" and arched her back, thrusting her heaving cunt against his pounding hammer. She gave up trying to match him, wrapping her legs tightly around his waist and whimpering, "Don't stop. Please baby, don't stop," as wave after wave crashed over her. Brent fucked her, and fucked her, and fucked her some more, driven by a desire he had never felt before. Her gentle moans and soft whimpers only served to inflame his lust and encourage his efforts. His cock became a tool; a powerful, precision tool designed only to provide sensation and compelled by his irresistible need to satisfy her. He was completely unconcerned with his own gratification; he simply wanted to give Nikki pleasure; pure, undemanding and unconditional. He gave her everything he could until she begged, "Please baby, don't make me wait any more. Give it to me. Fill me with your hot cum." A moment later Brent thrust himself deep inside her and Nikki felt his cock swell incredibly large as his tortured balls prepared to release their fiery cargo. She cried out, "I love you Brent...I love you...Oh God, I love you." It was just what Brent had been longing to hear. He knew it was true just as much as he knew was in love with her. He pressed his lips to hers, pulled her tightly into his arms, and buried himself in her cunt, pouring his love inside of her, filling her with the same happiness and bliss that he felt. He whispered into her ear, "I love you too Nikki, now and forever." * * * The next morning as they were having breakfast, Brent said, "I need to buy a couple suits if I am going to start work next week. Where do you think I should go?" Nikki thought for a moment then said, "Mort Snyder's. He does all the big stars. He's very, very good, but not many people know about him. Let me make a call." After a visit to the bank to cash Brent's check and open an account, they headed over to Mort's little shop. Mort looked old, but as soon as he opened his mouth you could tell he was sharp as a tack. "Here's the deal. Its $1000 per suit, custom tailored. Shirts are also custom fitted, and are $100 each. My daughter Lisa will take your measurements today and help you pick out styles and material. If you need something right away, I can have one ready in two days for an extra $500. You have to come back to the shop for the final fitting and finishing touches. That takes about two hours per suit." Brent smiled and said, "Great. You've got a deal. I need 5 suits, one as soon as you can get it and the rest within a week. Also give me 10 shirts, half in blue and half in white. Can you do that Mr. Snyder?" Mort laughed, "Are you kidding? Of course I can do it. And because you are a good friend of Nikki, I'll give you 10% off." They both laughed and shook hands, and then Mort said, "Please wait here." A moment later Lisa came over and introduced herself, "Hello, I am Lisa Snyder. I'll be taking your measurements Mr. Spaulding." Brent couldn't help smiling when he saw her. She was an exotic beauty, tall and slender with perky breasts and feminine curves in all of the right places. Her dark hair was long and straight, framing a classically Mediterranean face with large brown eyes, a generous mouth, and full, pouty lips. Brent found it was difficult not to stare at Lisa as she moved gracefully around him, considering what would look best. He glanced over at Nikki and was puzzled by the look of concern on her face. Then he saw a very quick flash of anger as Lisa helped him slip off his jacket. Suddenly the tension was thick enough to cut with a knife. Lisa walked away for a moment and chose five bolts of fabric. "What do you think of these, Mr. Spaulding?" She asked professionally. Brent looked them over and quickly decided, "They are perfect." Lisa said, "Very good." She set the bolts aside and then said, "I think we should start with the shirt measurements. Please remove your shirt, Mr. Spaulding." Brent raised his eyes and saw Nikki give him a questioning look, then shrugged his shoulders and stripped off his shirt. As Lisa stepped up close to measure his neck size, her eyes locked on the thin strand of beads around his neck and said, "Those are quite unusual." Then she asked, "Do you mind?" and reached out a hand to touch them. Surprised, Brent reacted by pulling away. He thought he detected a soft gasp as Lisa quickly released them. Then Lisa stepped close again and made eye contact as she put her arms around him to slip the measuring tape behind his back. For a moment she was so close that her breasts were pressed against his bare chest and he could feel her warm, moist breath tickling the side of his neck. Then her fingers slid 'accidentally' over his bare skin before she recorded his chest and waist size before measuring each arm carefully. Brent didn't understand why, but there was little doubt that Lisa was coming on to him, and the fuming look on Nikki's face told him it hadn't escaped her notice. After that Lisa helped Brent into a dress shirt and then slowly buttoned it, staring intensely into his eyes the whole time. As she re-measured his chest, waist, and shoulders he couldn't help wondering if she was being a little overly thorough. When she knelt in front of him to measure his inseam, she paused for a split second and wet her lips with her tongue before she took the measurement. If there had been any doubt about her intention before, it was completely erased when she cupped his balls and said, "Nice package. I see you dress left." Without warning, Nikki stepped between them and said sternly, "I think you have all the measurements you need, Miss Snyder." She was visibly upset. Lisa smiled, but there was sweet poison in her voice when she responded, "As you wish; I was finished anyway." Then she winked at Brent and said, "We'll have your first suit ready in two days. Call me anytime if you have questions. I'll be happy to do whatever it takes to make you happy, Mr. Spaulding." She walked off slowly, her hips swaying suggestively. Brent looked at Nikki and asked, "What was that all about?" Nikki said, "I don't know, but let's get out of here. She makes me nervous." Brent thought to himself, "Wow, Nikki seems a little jealous." They quickly made an appointment for Brent's final fitting and then wrote Mort a check for the whole amount. As they walked out of the store Nikki tossed him the car keys and said, "Why don't you drive." Brent said, "Thanks. Do you mind if we swing by the shelter so I can give Father Hackett a donation." Nikki said, "I think that is a wonderful idea." After they pulled into traffic Nikki asked sweetly, "Have I told you how much I love you today?" Brent laughed, "Yes you have dear. Several times..." She giggled and then leaned over, kissed his neck and whispered, "Well then, let me show you." As she reached down and lowered his zipper, she said, "Maybe you should take the long way." Brent groaned happily as Nikki slipped her hand into his pants and then lowered her face to his lap. * * * Later that day, Nikki had to attend to some personal business, leaving Brent alone in her apartment. He read idly through the paper and flipped through some magazines, but he had a hard time concentrating. Frustrated, he tossed everything onto the coffee table. His thoughts kept drifting to Jacob and the necklace. Brent wanted to understand what Jacob had meant when he referred to the lights. He pulled the worn, old strand over his head and examined it closely, seeing again that it was just made of ordinary wooden beads and a thin leather thread. He started to put it down but found it was difficult to let go. It had occurred to him more than once over the last two days that all of his good fortune had started right after he first touched the necklace. Meeting Nikki, getting the job with Jay's company, and winning at the casino had all happened since he had put it on. And that bit with Lisa earlier today; she hadn't started acting strange until she touched the necklace. Clearly there had to be some kind of connection, but Brent wasn't yet ready to believe in mysterious powers. He had to find some way to be sure. Slowly it occurred to him to try gambling at the casino with and without the necklace. If the beads had some power to improve his luck he would be sure to find out. It took more than a little effort to put the beads into his jacket pocket. Almost instantly Brent felt different; colder, weaker, a little confused, and much less confident. As he rode down in the elevator he felt a sudden compulsion to put the beads back on, but managed to overcome it. It took a while to get a cab, and as he waited Brent had to keep resisting the urge to put the necklace back on. He uneasily admitted to himself that there was definitely some thing strange at work here. As soon as he got to the casino, he went right to the same table he had used on the two previous nights, but it was full, and he had to wait a while for his seat to open up. Surprisingly Brent won the first two hands he played. When he won the third, he was beginning to feel better and mentally chiding himself for even considering that the beads were anything special. He lost a couple of hands and then won three more. So far this was turning out to be nothing more than an average night at the casino. Then he started losing. Over the next fifteen hands, Brent managed to win only once. He tried playing aggressively and conservatively, but nothing made any difference. It wasn't long before he was down $1000 and running low on cash. He walked away from the table and into the restroom, feeling depressed and miserable. Brent washed his face and hands, and then looked at himself in the mirror. Staring back at him was a man that looked haggard and unkempt, like he hadn't slept in a week. He felt tired and defeated, just as he had the day he lost his job and Evelyn threw him out. Without thinking, he reached into his pocket and pulled out the beads. At first he just stared at them, trying to resist the impulse to use them, but the force was too strong. As soon as he put them around his neck he felt a burst of energy flow though his body. He looked into the mirror again and saw a completely different person; strong, vibrant, and confident. Brent strode out of the restroom knowing he would win and finally convinced that the old, worn beads really did have some kind of special power. An hour later Brent walked out of the casino after having recouped his money and an extra $1000. Outside it was just getting dark, and the lights of the strip were shining brightly. He stood for a moment and basked in the glow, feeling their energy flowing into him, nourishing him, sharpening his mind. He saw things clearly now. It was just as Jacob had said; the beads were a gift with the power to provide for him. He saw that luck was a side affect, as was the seeming power over women. Apparently the beads somehow sensed his needs and provided whatever he desired. But along with that wondrous power came a terrible burden of temptation. Brent vowed to always do as Jacob had asked and respect the beads. As he rode back to Nikki's place, he suddenly became concerned that her affection for might be due the power of the beads. He knew his love for her was real, but it would be unfair to her to let things continue the way they were. Brent reluctantly realized that he had to give her a chance to sort out her feelings for herself. On the ride up in the elevator, he removed the beads and put them in his pocket. It seemed easier now that he understood their purpose. After drawing a deep breath, Brent knocked on Nikki's door. She answered right away and flung her arms around him. "Brent, where have you been? I was getting worried." She kissed him happily and then stepped back with a puzzled look on her face. "What's wrong, you look like your best friend just died." Brent answered with a shrug, "Just tired I guess. It has been a long week." Nikki still had a look of concern on her face. "Well, just sit down and have a drink while I go draw you a bath. A little while in a hot tub will make a new man of you." Brent poured himself a Scotch and sat down to think. Nikki didn't seem to be acting any different, and she certainly did seem to be concerned about him. But he needed to be sure she still felt the same way about him as he did about her. He walked into the bathroom carrying his drink, deciding just to ask her. Nikki had the tub full and the Jacuzzi nozzles running. "Oh, there you are," she said smiling. He asked nervously, "Nikki, how do you feel about me right now?" "What a strange question! You really must be tired." "Do you love me? I mean, right now?" "Of course I do! What brought this on?" "But, are you sure? I mean really sure. After all we have only known each other for a couple days." Nikki sighed, "Brent, dear. I think I knew the minute I saw the way you cared for that old man. Something about that touched me deeply." Abruptly her cheery smile faded. "Oh, god," she cried, her voice suddenly choked with emotion, "Brent, why are you asking me these questions? Has something changed? Is this your way telling me you don't really love me?" Brent embraced her and kissed her gently, "No...of course not. I love you more than ever." He kissed her again and asked, "Do I seem any different to you?" Nikki's smile slowly returned, "Yes. There is something different about you. You seem more real to me today. The truth is I never really believed in love until I met you, and for the last two days I have been afraid it was all just going to turn out to be a dream. Now I am sure it is real." Brent was touched and said, "I love you Nikki." She smiled and said, "I love you too. Now let's get those clothes off mister." Brent wrapped his arms around Nikki and kissed her, then stripped off of his clothes and climbed into the tub. He had to admit it felt really good and relaxing. Nikki knelt on a towel beside the tub and began to massage his shoulders and neck. After a few minutes she asked, "Mind if I join you?" Brent said smiling, "I was wondering when it might cross your mind." Nikki slowly removed her clothes, tied up her hair, and then stepped into the tub and right onto Brent's lap. They embraced and kissed for an eternity; a long, slow, passionate kiss that got his blood boiling and his cock on the rise. Nikki started to stroke him and Brent kissed her neck and shoulders, slowly working his way down to her perfect breasts, kissing in between them and around the edges of her nipples until she began to moan whisper his name. Slowly, he ran his tongue across each of her nipples, and then sucked them into his mouth one at a time. With a gasp Nikki begged him, "Make love to me, now. Please baby, I want to feel you inside me." Kissing her passionately again, Brent groaned and pulled Nikki against his chest, crushing her large breasts against him and feeling her bare pussy rubbing against his hardness. Her sudden gasp echoed loudly across the tiled bathroom as he lifted her slightly and then speared her with one quick upward thrust. Nikki gasped again as Brent started sliding himself in and out of her, again and again, splashing and spilling water over the edge of the tub until after a couple minutes Nikki's eyes closed tight and her body tensed. "Oh, fuck. I'm cummmiiinnnggg...," she cried. Nikki's pussy clenched tightly around Brent's cock as the orgasm rocked her beautiful body. Her sweet moans and gasps in echoed loudly in his ears, driving him closer to his own climax. Brent could feel the pressure building in his balls, intensifying with every savage stab of his overexcited sword. Finally, with one last, explosive thrust, he unloaded inside her, groaning deeply as her cunt pleasurably milked his gushing hose. "Aaaahhhhhhhhhhh, Ahhhhh, unh, mmmmmm" They slowly relaxed with their bodies still locked together, savoring the subtle aftershocks of their climax. Brent kissed Nikki again, this time with less intensity, less urgency; all doubts washed away, finally convinced that she truly loved him for who he was. He whispered into her ear, "You are so beautiful when you cum." Nikki giggled, "That's because no one ever made me cum the way you do." Then she saw all of the water that had spilled from the tub and started laughing. "Oh my god! Maria is going to kill us." * * * Brent sat in the conference room with Jay and discreetly touched the necklace under his shirt for luck. He had spent the last 2 months, learning Jay's business inside and out, and then preparing all of the information needed to get the big investment banks interested. He had used every connection, called in every favor, and twisted every arm he could to get appointments with a few of the biggest and best. Now they were about to see Brent's old boss Jeremy Grant and a senior partner from the firm, Edwin Lewis. Jeremy spoke first, "Good to see you again Brent. It looks like you landed on your feet." Brent took his outstretched hand and was cordial, "Thanks. You are looking well Jeremy." Then he said to Edwin, "Mr. Lewis, I am so glad you could come. I would like you to meet Jay Levinson."