Storiesonline.net
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                         Hindsight 20/20 Book 2
                             by SmokinDriver

Copyright© 2013 by SmokinDriver


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Description: A continuation of Book one after Britt has graduated college. Book two picks up at the beginning of his new career.

Codes: MF cons TimeTr span
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Preface


Hindsight 20/20 Book One introduced us to William Britton, (Britt), a man that leaped back in time into his boyhood body while retaining the memories of his past life. Book One covered the time starting when he attended intermediate, and high school and ended with the completion of his college career. Along the way, with this second chance at life, he made decisions about the changes he wanted to make during this new opportunity.

He felt that during his first time through he lived to please everyone else but not himself. This included his parents, his friends, his wife and his family. He made mistakes and found himself buried in middle-class mediocrity. The second chance provided him an opportunity to live life for himself. He set his own goals and created his own path.

The new Britt was also more confident and used that confidence to attract a different group of friends including women that were looking for a strong man in their lives. He helped and cared for his friends but ultimately decided to stay on the path that he had created which was to establish a goal and strive to achieve it. With this newly created plan, his first step was to graduate from college.

Book Two picks up after college as he steps out of his known history and tries to change history with his new and improved model for business success.

If you have not read Book One, I would recommend that you do so because that is where I introduced and developed the main characters and the initial plot for this continuing story. Britt will meet new friends and acquaintances in Book Two but I will make many references to characters and events that happened in Book One. I hope you enjoy Book Two.

Characters from Book One that play a part in Book Two:

Britt –William Britton: Main Character and time traveler.

April Parson – College lover and golf partner.

Darcy – College lover and slave.

Marshal Peterson – (wife Peggy, son John) Successful businessman from Orlando and business partner with Britt.

John and Beth Overstreet – John is Britt's attorney and Beth is his wife. Beth has been a strong influence in Britt's life and has acted as both a mother and lover role

Karen and Michelle – Lesbian lovers and good friends from his college days.

Dani and Reggie –Brother and sister from college. Dani ran track, and fixes chicken and waffles for Britt. Reggie graduated with a law degree and now works for Marshal in Orlando.

Doug Hennessey – Childhood best friend.

Cathy and Cindy – Britt's stepsisters from his mom's second husband Bill.



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Chapter 1


By November, John and Marshal had the funding and were ready to go. We started to close on the land deals and land options we had bought and started building across the country. Since Craig thought that, because of its central location, Nashville was where he wanted to set up shop, I also decided to move there.

We designed the business plan around the concept of making a profit on different businesses located at different sites in different city and state locations. The total of all the businesses and all the locations would be quite large but we'd derive our profit from a lower price to the consumer. Since I or technically my trust would own all the businesses, I didn't have to make as much from any single business.

We designed the trucking business with each truck built for the requirement of a specific route. Across the flat prairie, we could use them between many of the defined routes but we didn't design them for mountains. We designed each truck for specific hauling weights. Not every truck carries a maximum weight load, so we figured out how to cut the costs of fuel with smaller motors for the lighter loads. We had computers to match everything up and overall, our fuel costs were 33% cheaper than our competitor's were while driving similar routes. We also didn't have drivers sleeping while their trucks were idle so we ended up saving 100% there.

Trailers never stopped for long on the way to their destination so we could deliver the products faster and on time. Our drivers were home at night so they and their families ended up happier and healthier.

As a trucking company, we had needs. Our employees and we would have millions of them, which amounted to billions of dollars. All this translated into the need for the use of various banking facilities. To support this effort, we opened a bank. They needed auto and health insurance. We were already self-insured for our trucks and employees medical insurance, so we opened an insurance company for our employees and the public to cover their auto, life, health and home. We'd have all of our employees set up for direct deposit into our bank and then open it to the public as well. The insurance company and bank would make a lot of money and since we placed the offices at the truck stops, they'd be very convenient. We'd grow because we didn't need the high profits and didn't have the high overhead of most of our competition.

We had the cleanest, nicest and friendliest gas stations along the interstate. The names of the truck stops were Stop and Go truck stops and gas stations. We bought huge fuel contracts and eventually bought an oil company and ownership in a refinery. We could always pump our own fuel. We sold this to our trucking company and to the public. We needed all of these companies to operate the trucking company but by expanding them to service our employees and the public, they all added revenue and profit as well.

During my last year of college, I had laid out a matrix or grid of the United States that had the main areas of population. I also identified the main shipping routes on the interstate system. I had a study done using the Department of Transportation and the weigh stations to look at volumes for each day and month of the year.

Each of our truck stops had a public side and a trucking side. The trucking side managed the trucks, trailers and drivers being moved one way or the other through the system. The public side sold gas, groceries, and convenience store merchandise. There was a restaurant or two at each location. There were also public restrooms, a bank, an insurance office, room for additional growth, a small apartment for visiting employees (or me), and offices for the trucking company. I had my place in Orlando with Doug and an apartment in our office building in Nashville.

I got in the habit of working twelve to fourteen hour days, six days a week. I started with the land buyers. This was a coordinated plan, so we placed the options on most of the property and then closed the deal on the land in a very short time. I hired John Overstreet's firm to represent us. I traveled a lot, checking on one project or another. We pushed hard and hired oversized crews to complete the work faster and get the jobs dried in, so that they could work on the interiors over the winter.

Early mornings were still the best time for my workouts, so I still got up early or earlier to get them in. It was hard to swim with either no pool or a hotel pool that was just too short. At least once a week I'd track down a YMCA or somewhere to swim some laps. I could run almost anywhere, although sometimes it was too cold for me to venture out. I did meet some people along the way and used my statistical reasoning to find some fun on most Saturday nights. I figured I was doing a service to the community by spending dollars in the local economy and bringing pleasure to some of the local women.

With all of my traveling, I quickly became a top-level person on Delta's travel program as well as Hilton and Marriott. It turned out that my cohorts chose me to go out to Idaho to close a land deal that needed some attention. I was flying first class from Charleston to Boise and had to connect through Cincinnati. I was sitting with a nice woman who was on her way to Cincinnati to catch a flight for work. She was a flight attendant for the airlines and she was going to start her week. It was late November, but a freak storm came through that dumped a couple of feet of snow. However, just before the snowstorm, when the temperature dropped very suddenly, the gentle rain froze into a sheet of ice and just as we landed, or slid in, we became one of the last planes they allowed into the airport.

The Cincinnati airport is one of the main hubs for Delta and they support a large volume of air traffic. The airport is in the middle of nowhere and because of that, there weren't many hotels around. As an airline employee, Corina knew that the airlines would compensate her the time she spent stuck in Cincinnati. However, not all the hotel rooms reserved for the airlines employees could handle all the employees now stuck in town and in addition, the schedule called for Corina to immediately fly out-of-town. I quickly called my travel agent and booked a room as soon as I got off the plane since I knew it would be very tough getting out of Cincinnati. If the weather cleared, I could just cancel the room.

When I finished my call at the payphone, I turned to see Corina standing at the gate. I walked over and asked if she had any information about outbound flights. She said that they had closed the airport and with the layer of ice and the amount of snow that was falling, it was faster than they could plow it off the runways. Based on the forecast they thought it might be the next afternoon or the following morning before they'd open the airport again. The crew that the schedule called for her to work with never made it in, so she now found herself stranded until they could make it to the airport.

I let her know that I had a suite at the Omni and I would be happy to take her to dinner if she was looking for some company until the weather cleared. She accepted my offer and since the airline had asked her to try to stay downtown or away from the airport because at this time, she didn't have a flight out of Cincinnati. I didn't want to ride in a shuttle to the hotel so I flagged down a cab to take us. We both had only carry-on bags. The roads were slick, but the salt trucks had been out before the storm hit. The driver earned his pay and a large tip. He was also happier to end up closer to his home, and said he felt bad for the guy he'd dropped off since he'd now find himself stranded at the airport.

When I invited Corina to stay with me she said, "I like you, and would normally play hard to get for a while since the airlines will pay for my room. However, there will be so many people looking for rooms tonight; I'll just leave mine available for them to use if that's alright with you?"

I said, "I think you deserve something special for the caring attitude you have."

We pulled up in front of the Omni Cincinnati Netherland Plaza. It's a grand hotel and I'd made the reservation for a top-of-the-line suite, because I knew that most people wouldn't pay the high-end price. The 23-year-old stewardess found herself overwhelmed by the opulence of the place. To me it was not out of the ordinary, as I had stayed here before. They built it back in the 30's and anyone who stayed here found the architecture amazing. I wanted to go out for dinner but the roads were getting worse. It was still early, but I said that we should head down to get some food before the place got packed. We had a great meal and took our time. We had a booth that was in the bar area of the restaurant. We were talking when we saw two Delta flight attendants come in with their luggage and stop to look for a place to park.

I waved them over and offered them a place to sit down. We all introduced ourselves. Corina didn't know them but found out that they were on a waiting list for a room. Everyplace was full and they had to wait for someone to cancel a reservation before they could get a room. They ordered some food while Corina and I ordered some more drinks. There were two bedrooms in my suite but I didn't want Corina to look bad if she didn't want them to know we were staying together.

The other girls, Paige and Judy, had finished their meals and had checked the desk for openings. Although they still found the desk packed, the clerk told them that they were still on the list, but that they still didn't have a room for them. The only consolation was that they did have guaranteed reservations good until midnight for late arrivals. While they were gone, I told Corina that they could use our other room but it was up to her.

When the other stewardesses came back, the younger one, Judy sat down and said, "I'm dying for a shower. I took off at six this morning and flew from Dallas to Las Vegas and then to Salt Lake before making it to Cincinnati. Some girls on the international crew got our rooms and everything is full."

Paige, the older stewardess, agreed with her flying partner's complaint. Corina had been in similar situations and felt bad for the girls. She said, "If you want to use the shower in my room you can."

Judy was so ready to get out of her hose and wash the grime off her body that she readily agreed to borrow the shower. Paige was nodding when she grabbed her bags. I stood and they all looked at me. I handed Corina the key and that made it official. The cat was out of the bag. I stayed in the bar while the girls went up to the room for a shower and a change of clothes.

While I was nursing a Jack and Coke, another woman came in and after looking at all the full seats, she continued to walk by. I had watched her look for a chair and I asked, "Are you looking for someone or are you just looking for a seat?"

"I just want to sit down and have a drink. Do you mind if I sit with you?" she asked.

"No, please have a seat. My name is Britt. Do you have a room or are you on the waiting list?" I asked.

"Thanks, I'm Samantha, but my friends call me Sam. I had made a reservation so I'm one of the lucky ones. Do you have a reservation?"

"I was on one of the last flights that they allowed to land and when we slid down the runway I thought they might have some trouble taking off. The first thing I did when I got off the plane was to make the call. I think they were out of regular rooms but I got a suite. At the moment, I'm renting out my shower to some stranded stewardesses."

"I'm surprised you aren't up collecting. I was also on one of the last planes in but all the gates were full. We had to sit on the plane for an hour and when they finally let us off, all the cabs were gone. There were no cabs returning to the airport so I had to wait on the downtown shuttle. The roads were messy and we did a little sliding around to get here."

When I saw the waitress, I stopped her and ordered another drink and one for Sam. When the drinks arrived, I raised my glass and said, "Here is to warm beds and safe travels."

"Hear, hear. I'm not sure if my meetings with P&G will still happen tomorrow, but if they're ready then I'll be there."

"Are you buying or selling?"

Sam said, "I'm selling. I'm with IBM and we're trying to get them on board with the new bar code scanning system."

I laughed. She asked, "Why is that funny?"

"It is funny that we live in such a small world. Do you know Rob Porter?"

"He's my boss' boss. How do you know Rob?"

I said, "I met him in Seattle when I hired him to re-do the freight tracking system at the Port of Seattle."

"That made him the top dog in our new department."

"I'm happy for him. It was my idea, but he understood what I wanted, and worked hard to develop the exact system configuration."

"Wow, how did you come up with the idea? We hadn't even thought about other uses outside of the grocery stores."

"When I was in Seattle, I bought a pack of gum at the grocery and asked about the bar code. When they told me how the scanner worked to recognize the pack of gum, I thought about the number of products that exist in a full-sized store, I thought that in time, they'd run out of codes. I did some math though and realized that there were hundreds of millions of possible codes. I thought that if we put a sticker on the containers, it would be easier to track them as they moved through the system."

"We had to design some new scanners for the freight tracking process but it appears that they are working great. There are a couple other ports that are now interested."

"I guess you owe me then."

Sam asked, "So you want me to pick up your bar tab?"

"No, I want you to sharpen your pencil when I put in my next order. I was going to call you in a couple of weeks."

"Are you still at the Port of Seattle? I thought they were all set up."

"No, that was just a summer gig. I work for a trucking company that wants to track their loads as they move across the country."

"How do you see that working? Where would you scan them in route?" she asked.

"We plan to have truck stops along the way and the loads would drive through the scanner as they entered and exited the truck stops. We could track the progress, the driver, and compare the progress against the projected delivery dates and times."

"How many truck stops would have the scanners? They'd all need to have them and then have a connection back to a central computer."

"I'd want the information sent to two different locations in case there was a breakdown in the system. I'd guess about four to five hundred locations to start."

"Are you serious? I can set that up for you, unless you want Rob to handle it."

"You're cuter than Rob, and he didn't offer to buy me drinks."

"You're cuter than Rob, too."

"I'm not looking forward to going back to the mad house at the airport tomorrow, so why don't we meet sometime tomorrow to talk about it," I said.

"Britt, who do you work for? I'll call Rob tonight and let him know that we will be meeting."

"I'm not sure. I guess Freedom Trucking, although it could be Stop and Go truck stops. I'll need to check."

"You don't know who you work for."

"Let's just say I'm a consultant to a number of companies. I'm in charge of overseeing the big picture and helping the smaller companies work together. Tell Rob I said 'hello.'"

"I will. My plan for tomorrow calls for me to meet with P&G at nine in the morning. Can I call your room when I'm free?"

"Sure, I'm in the Skyline suite room number 4922. Just give me a call. I may try to get out for a while, but that will depend on the weather. I've been on the go for a while, so it is nice to find myself forced to slow down now and then. Are you ready for another round?"

Just then, a very clean-looking group of ladies came into the lounge. I just sat in the back of the semicircle booth and welcomed them back, and introduced Sam to Corina, Paige, and Judy.

Judy said, "Hi, Sam, it's nice to meet you. Britt, we just checked the desk and we're still on the waiting list. We left our luggage in your room if that's alright?"

"That's fine. If we want some more room, we can go up there now and sit on couches instead of us all cramming into this booth. Sam, you're welcome to join us. We can order some drinks and food from room service."

Sam said, "Sounds great. I'm hungry and could use a couple more drinks."

There was nervousness in the air as we went up to the room. I ordered some bottles and mixers along with some snack food and meals for everyone. We sat on the living room furniture and relaxed. I had on a pair of jeans and a sweater for traveling, and I tried to break the ice by asking where everyone was heading.

Sam was at her destination. Corina was on her way to Boston and then on to other parts of the country. Judy and Paige were actually the stewardesses scheduled to take me to Boise. I thought that was crazy. I know pilots and flight attendants, but never run into any of them when I travel. In one day, I'd run into a person that I'd be calling on for the scanners for the trucking business, and my stewardesses from my next flight, and all in the same place.

I smiled as I thought about it. Corina said, "A penny for your thoughts. You look like you're thinking something naughty."

I replied, "With four beautiful women in my room, in the middle of a blizzard you'd be right 99% of the time. I was just amazed at how small the world can end up being. I met Sam in the bar. She could have sat anywhere but she sat with me. I needed to talk to her company about the services that she sells. She'll probably close the biggest sale of her life because of that meeting. I could have called her boss or boss's boss, but I now have a contact for the project I need.

"I guess the odds aren't as great as I thought, because the number of stranded flights in and out of Cincinnati was small when compared to all flights flown in a day or week or month. However, what is the probability of also sitting with two of the stewardesses for my next flight to Boise? So, Corina, how do you fit into my life is what I was thinking."

"I think that could be naughty." She said.

"Corina, should we kick the others out, or let them stay while we go in the other room? We can stay in this room if you want to get even naughtier." I replied.

Paige spoke up and said, "Don't leave on my account. Since my divorce last year, I take my excitement wherever I can get it."

Judy said, "I've never watched anything like that live, but it could be interesting."

Sam said, "From a business standpoint it wouldn't be a good idea for me to stay, but I'm hungry so maybe I got off work just before we came up here."

Corina was blushing from head to toe. "I can't believe you all would even think of such a thing. I thought I was being wild by hinting that we might sleep together after you left, but not with all you perverts watching us."

I said, "Who said anything about them watching. I thought they might want to join in. Paige, tell me the truth. Are you a member of the mile high club?"

Now it was her turn to blush. She said, "Right after my divorce, I was on a red-eye flight from San-Francisco to Boston and slipped into the forward head with the co-pilot. It was a tight fit but we both are now members."

Sam was about to ask a follow-up question when there was a knock at the door. Room service came in and set up the food on the table and the drinks on the counter. I signed for the bill and tipped the man. Everyone was up and getting what they needed. I was going to play host but with three stewardesses in the room, they rather took over the food service.

Sam dug into her meal and the rest of us snacked on some shrimp cocktail and veggies. I was in a mood for fries, so I had them send up a basket full. The girls weren't interested, but each found a reason to grab a couple. I ate my fries and some shrimp before taking a plate back to the couch. Corina brought me a double Jack and Coke. Judy was looking out the window and said, "The fresh snow and all the downtown lights make everything look so pretty,"

I asked Judy, "Where did you grow up?"

"I was born in Vietnam and was there until I was twelve. My dad was helping the Americans during the war and we had to escape to the US as the war wound down. We were in detention camps for a while, and then we settled in Texas. When I got here, they gave me the option to pick my name and I picked Judy. I was a big fan of the movie the Wizard of Oz and of Judy Garland. We saw some snow in Texas and in the last 12 years, I've seen a lot with my travels. I've been a stewardess for the last four years."

"Wow, I'm glad you made it out of Vietnam. I think we should have all the pretty girls here in America."

"Thanks, I always like the fresh look of the world after it snows. When it starts to melt though, it is so messy looking."

Corina walked over, looked out of the window, and said, "I love the snow too. I didn't see a lot growing up in the south, but I try to get a few trips with layovers during the winter so I can play."

"Well, it is snowing, and I'll play with you. How long have you been flying?" I asked.

"I'm twenty-three and have been with Delta for three years. I actually fly out of Atlanta, but was taking some time off to visit my parents in South Carolina, meeting up with my crew as they passed through Cincinnati."

I just looked at Paige and she said, "I'm older than these two. I'm thirty-two and started when I was twenty. Therefore, I've twelve years in. My husband was not happy with me being away, so he filed for divorce a couple of years ago. I love my job and meeting new people and going to new places." For 32 years old, she still looked great, and her shoulder length black hair framed a very pretty smile.

Sam said, "This is your life. I'm 26, and have been with IBM since I graduated from the University of Colorado. I've seen plenty of snow and I love to ski. I work on a new technology platform and one of the guys I work for, Rob, has gotten many accolades for his project out in Seattle. I found out tonight that the idea was actually Britt's."

Everyone was looking at me. I said, "OK, my name is Britt. I just graduated from the University of Florida about a year ago. I'm twenty. I work for myself as a consultant. I figure out how to solve big problems and I love my job. I work too many hours a day, too many days a week, and live out of a suitcase."

Paige asked, "How do you find work if you're always on the road?"

"I started off when I was still in college when I saw a problem at a media company in Florida. I sat down with the owner and explained that he had a problem in his sales model. It took me twenty minutes to explain the problem and the solution. He told me that he'd pay me based on results and I got a very small percentage of the difference in revenue from the previous year. For my next job, I was in Alaska just messing around and I got bored. I flew to Seattle to hang out and ended up getting a job for the summer at the port. That's where I came up with the solution to their inventory management problem.

"That job was not nearly as profitable, but I learned about the transportation industry. I'm now working for a group of companies that will be starting up in the next couple years that will change the way that trucking companies operate."

"Do you make a lot of money as a consultant? It seems like a risky business. How long will you be with the trucking company?" Sam asked.

"Sam, I made over a million dollars on my first job. I made $3.50 an hour at the port. This job will last for ten years and the way I've structured my compensation, I shouldn't have to work anymore after that."

"Did you say a million dollars?" asked Judy.

"Yes, it was a very good idea."

"What did you do with all that money?"

"I invested it and made more money. I fly first class and stay in suites with beautiful women. That isn't cheap. I don't always splurge but I'm accustomed to working on my paperwork on the planes and work in my room at night, so they're my home and office. I try to stay fresh, but at times, that can end up being very tough."

Judy asked, "Do you have a wife or girlfriend?"

"Are you making me an offer?"

"No, I was just wondering."

"I was just teasing. I do have some friends that are girls or women that I spend time with in different cities. They know that I'm not ready to settle down or make any commitments. They all have jobs and just like to spend time with me when I'm around. We go on dates. We have dinners, go dancing and we spend the night together. Most of the people focus on their own schooling or jobs at this point in their lives. Just like you four."

Corina asked, "You must be a good date to have that many girls willing to wait for you."

"They don't wait for me. They're all free to live their own lives. When I come in town, I give them a call and if they're free and wanting some company, they invite me over. If they've found a man or have to work, they tell me so and I leave them alone. I was with a doctor last night in South Carolina. She works at the ER and I met her late one night after she'd finished her shift at the hospital. I had been so busy that day, by the time I finished it was after midnight. We met at a diner and she took me home. I told her I'd call when I was in town next but I don't have any plans to visit Charleston in the next six months. I also see a graduate student at Vanderbilt in Nashville. Since it is my home base, I'll see her about once or twice a month. She'll be graduating soon, so we may or not see each other, depending on where she moves and whom she meets.

"I also see a stewardess in Atlanta when we're both in town. She's a wild girl, but we have a lot of fun. She lives north of the city and likes me to take her to strip clubs before she takes me back to her apartment. Last time I was there, her roommate wanted to go with us. She also is a flight attendant, but they're on different crews."

Paige said, "You slept with two girls?"

"Paige, you said you wouldn't mind watching. They were the same way so they just took turns. I've been with women who didn't mind watching, touching or licking the other women. Those have been some fun nights."

She said, "Are you sure you're only twenty? You act older."

"I've been told that before. People I've actually called me a lot of things, but most of them are true."

Judy said, "I wouldn't mind watching, but I don't think I could do those other things."

"Judy you're not alone. Most of the time where there are multiple people, they're like you. They're not against it, but I'm not sure if they've the desire to end up with another woman. I like to watch women please themselves while another woman watches. I've had some women allow another woman to please them orally and then, because it was so pleasurable, they decided to return the favor. I've had some that just take turns and maybe stroke the other woman's arm, stomach or breast while she then has her turn.

I may make suggestions, but I never force anyone to do anything they don't want me to do. I've hired one hooker in my life, and it was the worst sex I ever had. She was there for the wrong reason. She didn't want to please me or enjoy herself. She just used her body to get me off and get her money."

Judy replied, "I'm getting a little excited thinking about it. Corina, do you think that you'd be up for something like that? I'm not sure if I could."

"It wasn't in my thoughts when he invited me to share his room, but you, Paige and Sam weren't around then. Now I find myself somewhat turned on by the thoughts, but I'm not ready to get naked right this second. I've had fantasies before. Britt, did you really take a girl to the strip clubs?"

"I don't usually waste my money on them because it can end up being an expensive habit. The girl I take there really gets off on it. I even buy her lap dances and when we get back to her place she's ready to get busy."

"That sounds kind of kinky," Paige said.

"Paige, I bet if you asked nicely that Judy would give you a lap dance. Anyone that has guts enough to leave their home and sail off to a new country must have enough guts to give a little lap dance."

Judy said, "No way. I'm not going to do it and be the only one naked."

"I'll get naked with you. If you give Paige a lap dance, I'll give you one. I'll turn on some music, you'll go for one song, and then I will give you a lap dance for two songs. Are you up for it?"

"Maybe."

"What do you other girls think?"

Sam said, "I'm in. I dumped my boyfriend two months ago and haven't had a date since then. I'll give you a lap dance after you give one to Judy."

Corina said, "I'm in. I love being with men but don't mind looking at some pretty women. Maybe next time you're in Atlanta you can call me to go to the club with you and your friends."

Paige said, "It sounds like everyone is ready to do something. Judy, do you mind if I get more comfortable first?"

Judy nodded and said, "How did I get myself in to this predicament? And why do I have to go first?"

I said, "Judy, you're the horniest one here so you're going to enjoy it the most. By the time you finish your dance for Paige, you'll be so wet that Paige better take off her skirt or you may leave a stain from when you grind on her leg. When I release my cock, you'll almost be ready to suck it in front of everyone. I can see it in your eyes." (I could also smell her excitement but didn't want to break the mood by saying so.)

I walked over to the radio and turned on some music. I turned to look at Paige. She was down to her bra and panties. She was the oldest one in the room but also the most comfortable of the girls with her sexuality. Judy was wearing a button down blouse with a pleated skirt. Paige settled into a chair and Judy started to sway her hips in front of Paige.

I sat down on the couch between Corina and Sam and put a hand on each of their legs. I started to rub each of them gently as we watched Judy unbutton her top to expose a lacy white bra. Her legs were straddling Paige's and her inner thigh was rubbing against the older woman's outer thigh. The shirt came off and she stepped back to drop her skirt. She must have had some idea about what she was doing as she did a slow turn and bent at the waist to pick up her skirt and set it aside.

Corina was feeling her own tits and Sam had moved her leg to give better access to her panty-covered pussy. She wasn't waiting on me and was rubbing herself through her underwear. Judy had turned back around to face Paige and had undone the clasp on her bra. She slowly let it slide down her arms as she covered her nipples with her hands. As she swayed to the music, she got up her nerve and moved her hands. As her bra came off her hands, she slipped her thumbs in her waistband and lowered her panties to her ankles.

She was a small dark-skinned Asian with small breasts and a nice butt. You could see the hair between her legs glisten with the moisture that was gathering at her entrance. She leaned over Paige and rubbed her small breast on her. She also tried to help herself out by rubbing herself on Paige's leg. Paige reached out and held on to Judy's ass as she rode on her. She also leaned forward and kissed her nipple. They went on for a minute but didn't go any deeper. When the song ended, they probably would have kept going but a commercial came on and broke the mood.

Corina had her shirt open and she was rubbing her nipple through her bra. Sam slowed down but didn't stop rubbing gently on her pussy. I could see a wet spot in the underwear. I stood and asked if anyone needed a drink, but they all shook their heads, no. I brought in an armless chair from the small table and set it in the middle of the room. I moved a naked Judy to the chair and had her sit. The next song started and I leaned in to give her a kiss on the neck. I stood to the side so that the other three girls could see me as well as the naked Judy.

With the music now on, I started to move with it and must admit that I'm a better than average dancer. When the backbeat kicked in, I moved my hips from side to side and I did a couple of thrusts. I lifted my sweater over my head and dropped it on an empty chair exposing my t-shirt on underneath. I took that off next and watched her eyes brighten as my abs came into view. Since I didn't swim or play tennis and basketball every week, I had kept up with my sit-ups and even increased the number I did each morning, resulting in my abs looking great.

When I stepped in her hand went to trace the contours of my stomach. I stepped back and did a slow turn while still dancing. Looking at the other girls, I saw them all rubbing themselves in one way or another. I undid my button fly one button at a time. When I got to the bottom button, I pushed the jeans and boxers to the floor in one motion. I stood up and all the girls could see my cock except Judy. I heard a couple of gasps as my fully hard nine inches came into view. Using my feet to free them from my pants, I then bent down again to move them away from me. When I straightened up again, I turned so that my cock was right in Judy's face. It bobbed in front of her and she licked her lips without even thinking.

Now that I was naked I was back to moving my hips. Next, I dipped down to let my cock head rub against her breasts. She reached up and started to stroke me. I shifted my hips back and kissed her on the lips. She lost her grip and I stood and spun to see the other girls. Corina had pushed her bra up and was playing with her tits. Sam had moved the crotch of her panties to the side and was sliding three fingers in and out of her wet pussy. Paige was now also naked and she was using both hands on her nipples and cunt. I finished my turn and Judy grabbed my cock again and started to stroke it. She had her other hand between her legs.

My next move was to I position my cock at her mouth where she gave it a tentative kiss and a lick. She didn't know what to do so I pulled her to her feet and danced with her for a minute while we were both naked. I did a half turn and then guided her to sit between Sam and Corina. As she settled back into the couch, I picked up her legs and handed one to each girl.

With her in this position, it was easy for me to drop down to my knees and dive right into the tight cunt with my face. I started to lick her entire slit but I'd make sure to flick her clit at the end of each lick. Hearing her moan, I continued to make her excitement build. I slid my tongue in as deep as it would go a couple of times before replacing it with fingers and moving my mouth to the top of her slit to focus on her clit. My fingers searched for her G-spot and it was right where it should normally be. It was less than a minute later that I heard the first loud orgasm, but it was off to my left coming from Paige. Judy started about twenty seconds later. She was shaking quite hard and both legs came down on my shoulders since Corina and Sam were both only using one hand.

Leaning back on my heels I looked over to Corina, who was standing and getting naked. She said, "I'm ready and I don't care who watches."

I walked over to my bag and grabbed a box of condoms and I rolled one on. She was back in place next to Judy so I got on my knees and lined up my cock with her gaping pussy. I slid in about five inches and then regrouped for my next thrust. She was already starting to make noises that she was close.

As I was thrusting in and out of her harder and harder, I looked over to see Paige standing next to the couch. I thought she wanted a better view to watch. She did watch for a bit and then leaned over the couch arm to take Corina's nipple in her mouth. I leaned in and took the other one in my mouth. I continued to move my hips. I gave a small bite as she got close and that sent her over the edge. I don't know if she was as loud as Judy was but she shook just as violently. As she started to come down, I released her tit and rose back to a kneeling position with my back straight and my head raised up. I saw Paige with her legs spread and Corina rubbing her cunt.

When I looked over the other way, I saw that Judy was still recovering and was slowly stroking her nipples. Sam was watching me and still had her hand doing circles around her clit. I looked at her and asked, "What's your pleasure?"

"Please fuck me."

Since I still hadn't cum, I went over and swapped out the condom. When I returned, Sam was removing her clothes, so I turned her and leaned her over the couch arm as I entered her from behind. She was soaking wet and I started to thrust into her hard. I watched Judy slide over and kiss Sam on the lips and then start to French kiss her. I couldn't see but it looked like Judy was playing with her tits as well.

When I felt that I was close to cuming, reached around to squeeze and rub her clit. I started to cum first but she started her own orgasm before my cock had stopped pulsing in her. With my hair matted to my forehead, and damp with sweat, I was not sure if Judy's juices helped to create this situation, but I knew that I needed a shower. As I stood up trying to catch my breath, Judy said, "Wow. I was afraid to even watch, but that went away as soon as Paige kissed my nipples."

Corina said, "I was accepting that you may all be watching us, but this was way more than I expected too."

I said, "This is more than what I was expecting tonight. My dreams have come true. I need a shower though because you sexy women just wore me out."

Paige said, "Poor baby," as she came over and gave me a kiss.

When I came back from the shower, Corina had on my sweater. Judy had on my t-shirt and Sam and Paige just had on t-shirts from my open bag. Paige said, "I hope you don't mind, but I just took our name off of the waiting list for a room. Sam said she'd share if you wouldn't."

"That's fine with me. Have you called to see about flights tomorrow?"

"I called them as well. They said that they expect to open the airport tomorrow, around three in the afternoon. Then they have to get all the planes currently stuck here out of the way so they've sufficient space for those that will be landing. The planes coming to Cincinnati can't take off until this airport is open. Making the long story short is that your scheduled plane is coming from Boise and won't arrive until the following day at its regularly scheduled time for a one o'clock departure. If you want to change your flight, they can re-route you. Judy and I are here until the day after tomorrow."

"It sounds like the best thing for me to do is stick around as well. I'll call and make sure I'm on that flight." I did call and with my status and waiting a day, they easily put me in first class of that flight. The excitement had worn off and the girls wanted to talk and relax so I replaced my towel with some boxers and grabbed my last t-shirt out of my bag.



-------

Chapter 2


We were all tired from a long stressful day. The drinking and sex had made everyone even more ready for bed. I didn't want to get in the middle of who slept where, so I said, "I'm going to get some sleep. If anyone needs anything, please let me know."

Everyone else started to get ready for bed. Judy came over to give me a kiss goodnight and thank me for a good time and Corina followed me to my room. I didn't see anyone else before morning and Corina let me spoon up behind her all night.

When I woke up in the morning, I was holding her. I think she was already awake, because as soon as I stretched a bit she hopped out of bed to use the restroom. All she had on was a pair of panties and no shirt. I rolled on to my back so I could try to gather my thoughts. No matter which way I looked at it, I'd be spending another day in Cincinnati. The first thing I needed to do was make some calls to reschedule my meetings in Boise. Second, I planned to lay out the scope of the project for Sam when she had time. Last, I wanted to go down to the riverfront, if the weather lifted, to see about using barges in transportation plan.

When the cute blonde, Corina, came back to bed, I pulled her in for a kiss and a grope. She told me that she had fun the night before and was somewhat scared to go out and face the other girls. I said, "We all do things in the heat of the moment that we'd not normally plan to do. I know that every one of you had at least one orgasm. I think that everyone had fun as well. Hold your head high and say, I fingered Paige to an orgasm while I had a man filling me. You can also remember how you held Judy's leg while you watched me fuck her. They're all fun memories. Maybe not the memories you want to share with your grandchildren, but fun memories none the less."

"I did have fun and will be wet today every time I think about it."

"What'll you tell your other crew when they ask about your getting stuck in Cincinnati?" I asked.

"It depends who's asking. If it is my friend Jennifer, I may tell her the truth."

"Good for you. She may ask you to show her the tricks you used on Paige. It's good to have friends. Are you hungry? Because, I'm hungry."

Corina said, "Can we make love one more time before I take a shower and you order breakfast? I'll have to leave pretty soon to check in at the airport."

"I'd love to." I said. We kissed for about fifteen minutes and let our hands roam over each other. Her hands found my cock and after she was sure it wouldn't get any harder, she moved it to her pussy entrance. Since I had already been stroking her slit she was wet and ready for me. I slid in and we slowly worked ourselves to the point that each of us had an orgasm. She had to wait a couple of minutes after she started so I could catch up and ultimately fill the condom. We held each other for a few minutes to catch our breaths. I rolled out of bed, pulled on my boxers and walked out to see how many breakfast orders I'd need to request. I walked over and didn't want to wake anyone so I quietly opened the door. Imagine how surprised I was to see all three of the women in the other bed with Paige down between Judy's legs and Sam kneeling over and sucking on Judy's nipple. I hope Sam turned in her room so someone else had a place to sleep. I pulled the door closed and called up room service. I ordered coffee for eight people, and a couple of full breakfasts and finally, muffins and fruit.

Next, I went back to get myself showered and dressed. I passed Corina and told her to keep an ear out for room service. I went ahead and I did my morning workout before I showered and shaved. When I came out, Corina and Sam were having breakfast. Both were dressed and ready to go.

Sam said that they had pushed her meeting back an hour to 10:30. Corina was going to the airport. She wanted to give herself enough time so she would be leaving around 10 as well. I said, "Sam, we can meet anytime after you finish your meeting, unless you need to catch a plane."

"I've pushed it back until tomorrow. The airline was happy to accommodate me since it seems that they have half the world stuck in Cincinnati. I did give my room back after I talked to Paige and Judy last night. I knew there were people waiting. The hotel was happy to credit my account. Is it OK if I stay here again tonight? If not, I can get a room."

"That was very thoughtful of you. I'm sure a stranded traveler was very happy for your decision, and I don't mean Judy, you little tramp." I said.

"I was wondering how you knew to order so much food. I guess we could have locked the door but after last night it just seemed natural to help out a friend in need."

"I'm only kidding. You're welcome to stay the night. I'll be flying out tomorrow."

I got my coffee and since the girls were all picking at the fruit, I ended up with a double order of eggs and bacon. I didn't eat all the hash browns. We were all coffee drinkers and I was glad that I ordered extra. Judy and then Paige joined us and we talked about the day and schedules while we all ate. I gave Corina a hug and kiss before she left and told Sam I'd see her later. I walked down with her to get a couple more keys from the front desk. The girl at the front desk raised her eyebrow at me, but I just winked and thanked her.

It was important to let John know that a snowstorm had stranded me in Cincinnati, so I made a call to him. He told me that he would get the meetings rescheduled. He said, "I sent out a colleague to help out with the paperwork if you don't mind sticking around. I'd like to get these deals closed if we can."

"Can you have them pick me up at the airport and we'll see what we can do. I should land around four in the afternoon on Delta flight 1402."

John said he would get everything taken care of. I gave him the number to my hotel in the event he needed me after I hung up. Judy and Paige were going to see if they could find something to do and went down to talk to the concierge. I got out a pad and pen from my bag and started to make a list of all the requirements for the UPC scanning system. I also made a list of the programming I'd need completed to manage the program and make it do what I wanted it to do. When I finished, I picked up the phone, dialed the IBM switchboard, and asked for Rob.

"Rob, this is Britt from the Port of Seattle job. Do you have a couple of minutes?"

"Hey Britt, I got a call from Samantha. She says that you ditched me and would prefer that she take your orders."

"She told me that they promoted you to the 'big boss' position, so I figured you wouldn't have time to talk to peons like me. Congratulations on your promotion."

Rob said, "I was just the lucky guy that answered the phone when you called. I did get a lot of credit for the work and designing the implementation. I oversee a team now. I'm always ready, willing and able to take your call. What do you have working this time?"

"That's the reason I called. Samantha seems like a sharp girl and I believe that she is more than capable of handling the order, but I need to have an NDA executed. I doubt in her position that she can sign a non-disclosure agreement for the entire company. We currently have a plan to meet this afternoon about the project. Can you get one drawn up and signed? I'll take your word for it if you tell me that you have it in your hand before I start the meeting."

"Britt, what's the name of the company that you need it for?"

"Can you have it made up with my name? William Britton. I represent a couple of companies and I'm not sure who'll end up owning or paying for the equipment and intellectual property. We can put some wording in the Master Services Agreement when we start working on the project."

"I can do that for you Britt. Do you mind me asking how big the project will be?"

"I'd guess about two hundred times larger than the last one in scope, but I'm hoping not that large in price."

"Wow, you don't mess around do you? Should I fly out for this meeting?"

"Rob, I want to lay out my ideas to Samantha today so that you can start figuring out the network diagram. There will be a need to create some programs, and I'm not certain if you want to write them or if I should outsource it. I'll probably put it out for bid just to keep the owners happy, and let them think that I'm looking out for them. Where are you hanging your hat these days? I'm on my way to figure out some land issues in Idaho, but I do have some openings in my schedule to meet with you later next week. I don't know where Samantha lives, but if you want to pick a place for the three of us to meet next Friday, I'll add it to my schedule so I can meet there with you."

Rob said, "I'm in Texas now; Samantha lives in Denver. Do you have any preference?"

"After all of the snow and ice, I think that meeting in Texas would make me happier."

"Well, plan a flight to Houston and we can all get together on Friday and figure out what you'll need. It's very weird that you met her in Cincinnati. Did she say you met at the hotel bar?"

"You know what they say. ABC - Always Be Closing. Your little sales girl was out selling. I guess that didn't sound right but anyways, we did have a drink together and when she told me what business she was in, I asked about you. I'll try to fly in on Thursday night if you can make it for dinner on Thursday, it would be good to see you. If not we can meet on Friday. I'll call you at this number before my meeting with Samantha to check on the NDA. Thanks."

"Thanks for thinking of us, Britt. I'll get the NDA done immediately and signed before your meeting."

With that done, I picked up my jacket and went down to get some lunch. Wandering out into the cold to see what was around; I spotted a place called Gold Star chili. I figure that if it won a gold star then there's a good chance that it should be good so I walked down the block and ducked in out of the cold. The hostess showed me to a seat and when I started to check the menu, it looked wrong. It had chili on hot dogs, which I understood, but they had it on spaghetti as the main way of serving it. I decided to try it and ended up getting a plate of spaghetti with the finest ground meat I've seen in chili. The chili replaced the spaghetti sauce and then I had raw onions and shredded cheddar cheese on top. My waitress told me to put some hot sauce on it. I also had a Coney dog, but it was only about three inches long. It was all very good and I enjoyed my first meal of Cincinnati chili. My waitress told me to try to have some Grater's ice cream before I flew out, but I didn't have a car and besides, it was too cold out.

After that great meal, I was feeling good so I went back to the room. All three girls were there and all had eaten. Judy and Paige had gone shopping and Sam had a great meeting with Proctor and Gamble. We sat around for a bit and talked. Sam changed into some comfortable clothes. After a while, I told Judy and Paige that Sam and I were going to have a meeting and I was hoping they could go find a movie theater for the afternoon. After the movie, we could all go out for dinner and whatever. My treat.

They understood and said they'd be back in a couple of hours. I apologized before they left. After they had left, I called over to IBM and asked for Rob. Sam looked like I was going to take away her commission, so I assured her that everything was fine. Rob finally answered and told me he had my NDA in his hand, and would give it to me next Friday. I asked him to mail it to John so I wouldn't have to deal with it. I handed the phone to Sam, and she spoke with Rob for a bit and told him about her P & G meeting. I then heard her take a quick breath and it caught my attention.

She said, "In his suite. They've shut down the airport, so we're both at the hotel here for a couple of days. I came up here to meet with him."

They spoke for a bit more and she hung up.

"Are you ready?" I asked.

She nodded. "He asked where we were meeting and I didn't know what to say."

"I'm glad you told him the truth. You're about to close one of the biggest accounts in your company. You should have told him you were otherwise engaged, lying naked in my bed, taking one for the team."

"I bet he would die if I said that."

"Don't worry about it. I wrote up the specs on what I'm looking for. I'll give them to you to take with you after we've made any changes and I run off some copies. I have an NDA in place so you can't talk about this with anyone outside of your company, and they had better know you have an NDA. You can't use my name, concepts or ideas with any other customers. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Rob went over that and said you had him write one up for us."

"Yes, sales people's signatures don't hold up in court when I'm suing for a few million dollars. I figured we'd put an EVP's neck on the line. So here is what I'm looking for." I went on to lay out the plans for the trucking model I'd created. I mentioned that every driver, truck and trailer would have an ID. We'd use the computer to match the three together and they'd all have to match before they could leave the depot. I told her that we could use the scanning information to track fuel consumption, miles on tires, length of the driver's lunch break, average speed and many other things for running the business. About half way through the meeting, the light bulb lit up and she got the idea. She had to figure out how all the truck stops and the scheduling offices would work together, and what the software program would have to include. However, she got it. I was hoping they'd come up with things that I missed, but after the amount of time I had spent thinking this through, I doubted they would.

I told her that she, Rob and I would be meeting in Houston the following Friday. I said, "I wanted to get out of the snow. I also was hoping that we could get rooms at the same hotel, but that isn't a condition for getting the sale. I just was hoping we could get together again if you wanted to."

Sam said, "I think I may like not having to share you with anyone else."

"You didn't seem to mind the others last night or this morning. What do you think of the idea for the shipping company?"

"It is absolutely amazing. I can see savings everywhere and a penny saved is a penny earned. It is crazy to think that a computer can tell you when to change the oil or change out the tires. It can warn you if an employee is going into overtime or doesn't have the proper rating for a certain load. I really like the different trucks and motors to haul specific loads for more savings in fuel. You should do well if this all works out. When will you need this all in place?"

I said, "Some of the locations are already under constructions. I'm still finalizing the last land deals. I'd say that in twelve months we currently plan to have it all up and running."

"That's aggressive. I'm glad we ran into each other."

"I was going to call next week. I have some land between Salt Lake City, Boise and Butte, Montana that the owner backed out or raised the price to something crazy. I'll talk to him and then look at our options. I'm meeting a lawyer there tomorrow and then I'll get it all figured out. There are a couple other locations, but they're just holding out for more money. I have some contracts that we can sign at any time, but we're making them sweat while we talk to some other landowners. I'll ask for a discount before I sign in a couple of weeks."

"It's fascinating. I feel like I just walked out of a final exam in calculus. I feel like my brain had a work out trying to keep up with you. I hope the girls get back soon. I'm ready for a drink and some food."

"That sounds good to me too. We can leave the girls a note and head down to the bar and keep an eye out for them as well." We went down to the bar and ordered a bottle of champagne. I saw Judy and walked over to invite them over to join us for a drink. They joined us and we had a toast to Sam and my business deal. After the drink, Judy and Paige went upstairs to the suite to freshen up, whatever that entails, and then they were back. We polished off the bottle of champagne and then switched to real drinks. I was drinking Jack and Coke and Sam had a screwdriver.

After talking to Judy and Paige, we decided to stay in and have dinner at the restaurant in the hotel. It was one of the finest in the city. I had some lobster ravioli for an appetizer followed by the Caesar salad and then the duck breast with a mushroom sauce that was excellent. I ordered a Wetzel Family Estate 1975 Cabernet Sauvignon. We all agreed that the meal was superb. When we were all finished with our meals, I settled the bill and then followed the ladies out of the restaurant back to the room. I called down and asked them to deliver some coffee. I asked Paige about their morning out and apologized that I had to kick them out for the afternoon.

Paige said, "I understand. I know you were working so don't worry about it. This is your room. We just invited ourselves to stay here. I wish the airlines would rent us rooms like this. Ours are much smaller and much less comfortable."

Judy replied, "You can say that again. I dreamed of seeing the world and I usually see the inside of small hotel rooms. It was nice to get out today and have some free time."

I said, "I've done my work for the day and had my meals for the day. Is there anything else on the agenda?"

Sam said, "Judy can dance for us again. That was fun to watch."

Judy said, "I don't think I'm up for it after that big meal. We could play cards since there are four of us."

Paige said, "Winner gets to sleep with Britt."

I said, "That should be that the loser gets to sleep with me, because if I win it won't be a very good prize for me."

She said, "Winner sleeps with Britt, and if Britt wins, he gets his choice."

We didn't have any chips and most of the other games were team games, so we played hearts. We decided to play four games. It was fun to hang out and talk. The score was close but in the end, Paige was the winner. That was fine with me as she was a very pretty lady. Judy and Sam would stay in the other room. Sam had to leave early so I gave her a hug and a kiss in case I didn't see her in the morning. I told her that she would have her night or weekend in eight or nine days, I also told her about having dinner with Rob on Thursday, and asked her to book me a room at her hotel. I got her card and gave her mine with John's number. He always knew where I was if anyone did.

I walked in to see Paige taking off her makeup. I stood beside her and watched her. She started to protest me sitting with her but I told her to hush. I asked what she would like to do.

"Britt, I'd really like to feel loved. Since my husband left me, all the men I meet are just looking for a quickie before one of us flies off. Can we take our time and make love slowly. I know this is a one night stand but I talked to Corina and she said you made her feel special."

"Paige, Corina is special and you're special. I have a few women that I see and they're all special. I'd be happy to spend time worshiping your body."

I pulled her in for a kiss. She had on a hotel robe but nothing else. I stripped to my boxers. We stood in the room and danced to no music. Our lips and tongues were dancing as our bodies swayed together. I moved her toward the window as we slowly moved around the room while making out. When we were at the window, I raised her hand to do a spin move and when she was half way through her turn, I stopped her and pushed her up against the window. I had separated her robe and the cold glass made her nipples even harder than they were. I ran my hand down into her bush and slid my cock over her ass through the robe.

My lips were kissing her neck as she alternated thrusting her ass against my cock and her pussy against my hand. When she started to moan, I pulled her back and lost the robe on the way to the bed. As she lay back, I knelt beside the bed and started to kiss her inner thighs. I think that she knew what was coming, but had never experienced it before. I took my time and paid attention to her. I teased her until she was begging and thrusting at me to help get her off. I gave in to her demands and attacked her pussy with gusto. She came and then, before she could come down, she came again. After her third orgasm, she was begging with the same level of need, but now she needed me to stop. She couldn't take any more.

I stood and moved her up into the middle of the bed. I went back to kissing her face. I made sure that she could taste herself as I moved my face so she could clean her juices off me. When she had returned to normal breathing, I centered myself and slid into her. We made love slowly. I could feel her working her inner muscles and was glad I had on a condom. My orgasm snuck up on me so fast that I wouldn't have had time to pull out in time. We took a shower and dried off, and then we had sex one more time before we went to sleep.



-------

Chapter 3

When we woke up in the morning, it was after eight and I knew that we'd missed Sam. I dropped down to do my push-ups while wearing my boxers. Paige had gotten out of bed and was watching me. As I finished my last push-up, I hopped up and swung my feet between my hands, so that I was in a sitting position. She sat on the side of the bed as I went through my two hundred-fifty sit ups. I started to break a sweat for the last hundred or so.

Paige said, "I was wondering how you got to look the way you do. I guess it's a lot of push ups and sit ups. I think it's worth the effort because you look great."

"You don't look so bad yourself. I bet the entire city of Cincinnati appreciated you giving everyone a show last night at the window."

"I thought about that, but with all the lights turned off and as high as we're, it would have been a miracle to see anything worth seeing."

"Paige, you've got plenty worth seeing. What time do you need to arrive at the airport? We can have sex or we can go in and get Judy. Maybe I should wait until we're on the plane and offer Judy a membership in the mile high club."

"Thank you for last night. It was unique. You made me feel loved and very special. Can I ask one more favor?"

"You can ask anything you want."

"Can we have sex one more time, so maybe I can take the top position? I've always let the man lead and I've never taken the on top position. I feel comfortable asking you. Can we?"

"Sure, I can use the rest. Wake me up when you're finished."

"You better not fall asleep. I want you to play with my tits."

"You have a deal, since I get to play with boobies."

I jumped in the shower for a quick rinse and dry. We got on the bed, she used her hand to get me hard, and I told her to suck on it a bit. She licked it a bit and then put it in her mouth. After a minute, she pulled up and inched forward to seat me in her slot before lowering herself down on my cock. As she settled to the bottom, I said, "Rub your clit on me. You're in control, so you figure out what makes you feel the best."

She did what I suggested and I heard a moan even before I reached up and grabbed hold of her nipple. She really enjoyed herself and had to decide if she could make it all the way to orgasm before she got too tired. She finally came and then let herself lie down on my chest to recover. I held her and rubbed her back, eventually rolling her to her side. I hadn't cum, but I was fine. I just held her for about fifteen minutes. We both got up and she offered to let me finish, but I told her that I was good. I let her take a shower and went to check on Judy. She was up and sitting at the table and had already ordered breakfast and coffee. I told her that she should have come in and joined us.

"Sam took care of me before she left. I thought about coming in to watch. I've changed a little over the last two days, and I feel a little freer to act like myself."

"Judy, you're a pretty, young lady. You should enjoy what you are, and learn to live for you, not anyone else."

She didn't say anything, but simply shrugged and nodded at the same time.

Paige walked out and I went in and got ready to go. After my shower, I put on some jeans and my sweater. I think I lost three t-shirts, but still had one clean one to wear on the plane. Once I arrived in Idaho, I was going to need to find a place to do my laundry. I put my bag by the door and drank a couple of cups of coffee with some fruit and a blueberry muffin. We shared a cab and found ourselves early for the flight. I went to the Crown Room, read the paper, and had another cup of coffee while I waited. Using an Atlas from my backpack, I started identifying the different routes, distances, and locations in the area where I was heading. I gathered my things and walked down to the gate thirty minutes before the scheduled flight departure time.

I arrived just as they started to board and as I got to the door of the plane, I saw Paige, with her back to me putting something away in the forward galley. I thought about goosing her, but the cabin door was open and there was another passenger behind me in the doorway. I had taken a copy of the Wall Street Journal from the Crown Room and laid it on my seat, while I stowed my carry-on bags in the overhead. I sat down, opened the paper, and soon saw a pair of legs standing next to me.

Paige asked, "Good afternoon, Sir, can I get you something to drink?"

"Paige, you forgot my name already?"

"Britt, I was just saying my line. It will be a very long time before I forget about you."

"I know. I'm fine for now. I just had some coffee." I went back to reading my paper and let her do her job. The plane filled as the Cincinnati airport continued to move the stranded passengers on to their destinations. A man sat beside me in the window seat, but just opened his book and started to read. We were soon in the air and on our way to Boise.

After the plane leveled off the stewardesses started to do their jobs with drinks and meals. I had the chicken and it was barely all right. After they picked up everything and refreshed everyone's drinks, Paige and Judy were in the front galley putting away all the carts and trays. They had a curtain drawn across the galley, so they could work. I slipped in and walked up behind Judy. I whispered, "I didn't get a chance to have some fun with you this morning. Do you want to join the mile high club?"

I could see and feel her shoulders slump at her true feelings of surrender. She wanted it and she knew it. I moved Paige between the curtain and me and lifted Judy on to the counter-top. As I pushed her legs apart, her skirt rode up her thighs. I ripped the crotch in her pantyhose and pushed the crotch of her underwear to the side. I had my wallet out and my rubber on in no time and then slid into her. I had done this before in my first time through with my wife in the lavatory. The galley has so much more room.

I was hard and fast. I had two goals. The first was to complete the act. The second was not to allow anyone to catch us. I didn't want her to lose her job. It took about five or six minutes to fill the condom. I don't think that Judy finished, but she was jumping down before I even had time to zip up. She gave me a big hug and thanked me. I dropped my condom in with the rest of the trash and wondered what the trash sorters at the food plant would have to say about their findings.

The flight took about five hours from gate to gate, which had us arriving around four o'clock local time. I said goodbye to Judy and Paige and was the first person off the plane. I walked to baggage claim to meet my ride. I didn't see anyone there to meet me. I continued to look for a sign with my name on it, but instead I saw Monica's mother, Yolanda.

I walked right up to her like a sailor returning from sea. I dropped my bags at her feet, pulled her in for a hug, and a kiss complete with tongue. I finally let her come up for air. From the look on her face, you could see how startled she was.

Yolanda said, "I was hoping to get closer to you tonight, but I guess I won't have to try very hard."

"It's late; at least it is on the east coast. Why don't we have some dinner and then we can get naked and have a business meeting."

"My daughter has told me about your meetings. If I wasn't so excited, I'd be scared."

"Yolanda, do you want to act as my slave, or do you just want me to fuck you?" I asked.

"I want both. Tonight, I want both. Tomorrow, we'll see. We have some work to do."

"Yolanda, get my bags and take me to the car."

I followed her as she carried my bags and led me across to the parking garage where we walked up to a Lincoln Town Car. I asked, "Did you pick this car out?"

"It was the nicest car they had," she said.

"Come with me and bring the paperwork," I said. I grabbed my own bags as we went back to the airport. I walked up to the counter and asked if they had any four-wheel drive vehicles. They told me they had a choice of Ford Broncos and Chevy Blazers. I asked for a Bronco and turned in the Lincoln. We drove to the Stagecoach Inn where I had some prime rib and prawns. Yolanda had the shrimp cocktail and the Coachman salad. We each had a beer. After dinner, we drove back to the Idanha Hotel. I canceled my room and just went up with Yolanda.

I was very tired from traveling and didn't want to do all the work with being her master, so I told her to get naked and get in bed. It was cool outside, but no snow was on the ground. I got undressed and climbed in the bed with her. I kissed her and felt up her tits. I played with her nipples as we made out. After stopping, I said, "You know that it's the slave's responsibility to ensure that she's protected if she doesn't want the master to get her pregnant. Monica said that she always wanted a little brother. I think I'll plant my seed deep in your womb. Do you want to carry my baby? I bet we could sell tickets for people to watch you breast feed."

"Oh, yes, please fill me with your seed."

"If I need some help closing the deal tomorrow, I may need to have you suck off the farmer or maybe sleep with him or his son, so I should probably get you pregnant before they have the chance." I pinched down hard on her nipples and I think she had her first orgasm.

We played for a while before I fucked her. I fucked her hard and finally planted my seed. I had her get a washcloth to clean me up and then still got up to brush my teeth before sliding back into bed, where I could feel Yolanda's nipples rubbing on my back.

We were up early the next morning, and I told Yolanda to put her suit away and put on some jeans. I buttoned up my Levi 501's and got out an old pair of riding boots that I brought with me. I had a flannel shirt and a denim jacket. Even in her jeans, Yolanda still looked out of place. We went downstairs to have a bite for breakfast before we checked out, then drove for a couple of hours down to Pocatello, which is at the intersection of I-86 and I-15. I was looking at two hundred and fifty acres to build a truck stop. The farmer had given us a handshake deal, but changed his mind after someone told him that we'd pay more if he held out. We were going to meet around two that afternoon. I drove to the property and found that it was perfect for what we needed. It was next to the Exit ramp and saved a lot of extra driving from having to go north, south or west to build our place. I drove north one more exit and went up to the farmhouse located just a little ways past the off ramp. After parking next to an old pickup, I walked up and a man walked out. I said hello and asked if he owned the farm.

"Yes, this is my place."

"My name is Britt and I'm looking for a farm along the interstate somewhere around here to build a gas station. How much land do you have here?"

"Britt, my name is Jim White. I have just over two thousand acres here. It isn't for sale."

"I understand. It's a nice looking farm. Do you know a farmer named Jeremiah Phillips?"

"I do, and if I must say, he's an ass."

"I like you more every minute, Jim. You see this Jeremiah Phillips said he'd let me buy his farm for $1,500 an acre, which from what I hear, is a good price for around here. He shook on it, and then when we came around with the paperwork, he changed his mind and thought his land was worth more."

"Sounds like him. I don't trust him at all."

"I had to fly all the way out here to try to straighten this out. To be honest; his property is the best place for my gas station. I'm trying to buy all of his two hundred and fifty acres. I'd like to make you an offer."

"I'm still listening to you."

"I want to let Jeremiah know that I have a back-up plan. Would you sell me a hundred acres for $2,000 an acre and one acre for $950?"

"That would be a very nice price. I could see splitting off a piece out by the road for you."

"I still want to buy the Phillips farm. If I get it, would you be interested in farming the other hundred and fifty or so acres?"

"We can talk about it, and if it makes sense I'd be interested," he said. We shook hands and I told him that I'd stop by later in the afternoon.

I got back in the Bronco and Yolanda asked, "What did you talk to him about?"

"Yolanda, I may have to pay more for the land I want to buy, so I was making arrangements for my slave to work in the field here to make up for the extra cost."

"Yes, sir," she said with a smile.

At two o'clock, I walked up to the farm of Jeremiah Phillips. I shook his hand and said, "Mr. Phillips, good afternoon. My name is Britt, and I've come out to see if I can figure out where my agent screwed up this deal."

"He tried to rip me off, so I canceled the deal."

"I'm sorry about that. I was in South Carolina looking at some timberland when I got the call. I didn't want to upset you, so I flew out and then found myself stuck in that snowstorm. I finally got in late last night."

"So can you make this right?"

"I hope so. I haven't seen the old contract if you even had one, so let's just pretend that we've never spoken to you before today."

"Sounds good."

"This is some nice looking land you have here. I've driven around the county and you have a nice spread. How many acres do you own here?"

"I have two hundred and fifty acres."

"Do you own all of the mineral rights and access rights to the road?"

"Yep, I own all that."

"I have been looking around and seen a lot of land in the eight hundred an acre range. It isn't quite as nice as yours but everything seems to be in good shape. What are you asking for yours, $850?"

"Are you crazy, I am asking $2,000 an acre?"

"Do you have an oil well or something I haven't seen? I haven't looked at any land around here that's in that range. I just left Jim Whites place, and he agreed to sell me an acre for $950. I told him I was going to talk to you first and I'd go back to see him when we finished. He said he'd carve out a hundred acres along the road for me out of his two thousand."

"He wouldn't sell for that price."

"He said it was fair. I'd like to have some extra for farming and I like this exit better than his, but it's only a couple of minute's difference. If I offered you a $1,000 an acre, could we shake on the deal?"

"Your guy shook on $1,500."

"I don't know anything about that. What happened, did he try to break the deal? I'll fire him if he did. I hate liars and cheats. If he said $1,500, I'll honor that, but I still am not happy that he'd try to back out of a deal he shook on."

"I'll let it go. I still have the contract inside for the $1,500 an acre. Let me go sign it, so we can finish the deal."

He came out with the contract signed. I called over Yolanda. "Yolanda is an attorney to make sure everything is legal. Yolanda you need to witness that this is Mr. Jeremiah Phillips and he just signed the contracts."

She asked to see his license and asked if he'd read and signed the contracts. He said he did, and she asked if anyone else had partial ownership, like a wife, child, sibling or parent. He said, "No."

I signed for our group and we both had a copy when we got in the Bronco. I looked over the contract since we use different real estate contracts in different states. After I read it over, I walked over and said, "Mr. Phillips, when do you want to close on this property?"

"The sooner the better, I'm moving to California, so I can live closer to my daughter."

"Since this is a cash deal, I can go by the bank and get a cashier's check, so we can close this afternoon at the courthouse." I said.

"That would be great. Can you have a check by 4:30? The bank closes at six."

"I'll make it happen." I went to the bank, and after a couple of phone calls and my credit card, I had a cashier's check in hand when I met Mr. Phillips at 4:30. Yolanda stepped in and made sure that we had executed all the contracts and paperwork correctly. She stayed to file the paperwork at the courthouse. I walked over to the bank with Mr. Phillips to make sure he didn't have any trouble with the bank depositing the check. We drove from there back to the farm, got out, and walked into the house.

Mr. Phillips was in the house and he was packing his suitcase. He said, "I'll come by to get the rest of my stuff in the morning. It will take me a couple of days to get everything moved."

"Mr. Phillips, I can't wear your clothes and have no interest in pictures of your family, but the contract that you read and signed said that anything that was on the property at the time of closing becomes my property. To my reading, that means that the tractor, that frying pan and all the furniture in the house now belongs to me. I have a contract and a canceled check that says so."

"You're taking my stuff? You're stealing my stuff?"

"Why don't you take your suitcase and your $375,000 and go to the hotel in town. Make a list of anything that you want and then come by tomorrow at 10 AM and I'll let you know what you can have and what I want to keep."

He left in a huff. In the morning, when he showed up again, the Sheriff was with me and we were drinking coffee at the kitchen table.

He said, "Sheriff, I'm glad you're here. This man is trying to take my stuff."

Sheriff Johnson said, "Jeremiah, I know the entire story. I know that you got 50% more than this place is worth. I know you accepted a man's offer and shook his hand before changing your mind. I know that Britt tried to get you to agree to $1,000 an acre before he let you have $1,500. I know what the contract says, and I know that you cashed that check yesterday, so in the eyes of the law, you don't own anything here except for your truck, and the only reason that's true, is that you closed at the courthouse and not on your kitchen table. Did you bring a list for Britt to look at?"

"Yeah, but I don't think it's right."

I looked over the list and he had a big list. I let him have a lot of family stuff and even gave him a shotgun he got from his dad, after I made sure it wasn't loaded.

The Sheriff said, "Jeremiah, if I see you anywhere near here, once you drive off this property, I'll arrest and fine you. If you try to take anything, I'll arrest you, charge you with grand larceny, and put you in prison. I think you'd be doing yourself a favor if you started to head down to California this morning. You can make it quite a ways before dark."

Jeremiah knew he'd lost the fight, so he got in his truck and left. I thanked the Sheriff, asked about the people in town, I told him that we'd be hiring in about a year for long-term positions and for construction jobs very soon. After he left, I drove up to Jim White's farm and told him the entire story. He was laughing so hard he had to sit down. He told me that he'd farm the land for me, and asked if I wanted to sell a tractor at a good price. We came up with a fair price and we just shook on it.

I asked Yolanda if she wanted to play slave on the farm, or if she wanted to lock up and get out-of-town. She said that she could handle a weekend on the farm. We ended up staying and playing. She was topless from the time the Sheriff left until the time we left for the airport.



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Chapter 4


Yolanda and I had a fun weekend. It was the wrong time of year to have any crops in the fields, but I kept her as my kitchen worker. She made me promise that there wouldn't be any pictures, and I couldn't tell John anything. She is about twenty-five years older than me, but still in good shape, and very sexy with those huge nipples and round ass. I had her in the kitchen fixing lunch when I heard a truck pull up outside. I looked out the window and saw Jim White. Yolanda started to move to get her clothes, but I made her stay right where she was.

When he came to the door, he asked if he could look over the farm and see what he had to work with in the spring. I invited him in for something to drink. He stopped abruptly when he saw Yolanda.

I said, "Yolanda, Jim came in for a glass of iced tea. He might be staying for lunch. Can you get him something to drink?"

"Yes, Sir."

Jim said, "I should have brought my wife with me. She'd fit right in here. Are you two together?"

"No, we're just friends having a fun weekend together, playing on the farm."

"Do you mind if I get my wife and bring her over? Sometimes she feels so alone out at the farm. She can help fix lunch."

"Jim, that's fine with me."

Jim left in his truck.

I said, "Yolanda, Monica told me that she shared with you about the time that I traded her for another woman. If that comes up, would you like for me to trade you to Jim?"

She didn't want to say 'yes'. Instead, she stayed in character and said, "Whatever the master wants, sir."

Jim came back, and his wife was as black as night. She was tall and thin as a rail. She looked strong, but had little if any chest. Yolanda, in comparison, was more of a Mocha color with large breasts. When they got to the kitchen, he introduced his wife, Tamara.

Tamara stood for a minute looking at Yolanda and then said, "Jim said you may need help with lunch. I'd like to help." She started to take off all of her clothes. She was unique in her long lean and dark appearance. Yolanda found her an apron, and Jim and I left them to fix lunch. We went into the other room and he asked me what the deal was.

"Jim, Yolanda and I have been friends for a while, but due to my age, we never got together sexually, even though we both felt the urge. We had to come out here on business together, and since it was the weekend and we finished with our work, we decided to role play a bit. I let her have her fantasy of working on a farm and answering to the Man. Tomorrow we will fly off in different directions and just have memories of this time together. What's your story?"

"I met Tamara when I was studying agriculture at Texas A & M. We became friendly, and eventually became lovers. She liked it rough and so did I. One summer we were working on a test field out in the middle of nowhere and we were out in the field taking samples. There she was, bent over looking at the roots of a plant that she'd pulled up and I was standing up taking a drink. She looked at me and said, "Master, can I please have some water." It sounds like our women have the same fantasies. I went along with her, and over the weekend, I took her and had her suck me off. She likes to fight, but also loves for someone to take her out in the field with the dirt on her back."

"Do you use a safe word with her?"

"We didn't at first, but she'd get frustrated sometimes when I'd stop. I found a magazine in an adult store while I was driving home for Christmas and when I got back to school, I let her read the article. She told me her safe word was peaches. Now I can go as hard as we both want without the fear of going too far."

"Have you ever loaned her out, or traded her for another slave? I started with Yolanda's daughter being my slave, and I traded a kid down the hall for his red-headed girlfriend for an hour. What turned her daughter on was the thought of being traded like a piece of meat, or more precisely, a piece of property."

"We try to keep our private life private, and we've been lucky that most people don't say much about us being different colors. We love each other, but also like to get a little wild from time to time. Walking into your kitchen today really blew me away. We have actually talked about swapping, or finding someone else for her for a night or weekend, but never found the right person or situation to make it work. I'd love to see what kind of reaction I'd get from trading women."

I called out to Yolanda, and when the ladies came in, I asked, "Is lunch almost ready?"

"Yes, sir. We have some ham and Swiss sandwiches in the oven, toasting up; we also made a slaw and some homemade potato chips. We can sit down now and it will be ready in a minute."

"Good, I want to have a nice meal before I let my friend Jim here, see if he can tame your big fat nipples. He thinks you'd feel good on the end of his cock. I hope you changed the sheets in the guest room because he may have to whup your ass if the bed is old and dusty."

"Yes sir. I'll make sure the sheets are clean while Tamara gets lunch on the table."

Tamara was staring wide-eyed at her husband. He took on his character and said, "What're you looking at, bitch? Aren't you supposed to get lunch on the table, so Britt will have enough energy to fuck you long and hard?"

There was just the slightest hesitation before I heard her say, "Yes, sir."

Jim and I sat in the dining room and the girls sat in the kitchen. I could hear them talking. I made sure that Jim knew that my safe word for my girl was elephant. After lunch, the girls came in to take the dishes. I walked into the living room, so Jim could talk to Tamara alone and make sure she was all right. I did the same with Yolanda.

I said, "You, my slave, will be a good bed slave for my guest here at the plantation. If things go too far and you want to stop, just say the word 'elephant' and he'll stop."

"Yes sir, thank you sir. I'm so excited, and so is Tamara."

We walked back into the kitchen and I said, "I need to take a leak. Come on, Tamara, I may need help." I took her hand and led her out back. It was around 52 degrees, a little cold but not bad. She had on an apron. I went to the big oak tree in the back yard and stood in front of it.

Tamara stood next to me and just looked at me.

I said, "Bitch, do you expect my buttons to undo themselves? Come hold my cock so I can take a piss."

She came up, undid the buttons on the front of my jeans, and then pushed them down just a bit to allow my cock to escape the top. She took it carefully and held it pointed at the tree. I relieved my bladder, and she just stood there.

"Well, shake it to get any last drops off. Unless you'd rather get on your knees and lick it clean."

She shook it and started to put me away.

I turned to her and said, "I like your hands on my cock. Why don't you just keep stoking it and then I can fuck you hard with it. We need more kids around this farm, and you'd be a good woman to carry one for me."

She started to stroke me and then I grabbed her hard nipple and started to squeeze it. She let go of me, broke away, and started to run. I caught her after a couple of steps and tackled her on the grass.

She said "Please, no. No, I don't want a baby." I wrestled around on the grass with her and she was hitting my arms and pushing me away. I eventually got her rolled to her stomach with the cold wet ground under her. I held her in place with the weight of my body and my left hand as I used my right to lower my jeans some more and to free my cock.

I came at her from behind. The angle was difficult with her lying flat on the ground, but she moved just a bit to give me access. I slid up inside of her and continued to thrust hard into her. After she'd lost her fight and was resigned to her fate, she got to her knees to give me better access. I'm not sure about the size of Jim's cock, but she was a firecracker on mine. She was moaning and talking to me.

Tamara was saying, "I'm sorry Master, please don't rape me. Please don't get me pregnant. I don't want to end up picking beans in the field with a baby in my belly."

I slapped her ass hard. It sounded worse than it stung, but she responded and picked up the pace, trying to please me. She ended up having a couple of orgasms while I continued to fuck her from behind. She and Jim were a married couple, and they didn't have any kids, so I thought that she was probably on the pill. At the last minute, however, I pulled out and rolled her to her back. I stood up and shot my load all over her face, tits, and belly. Her hand went to her cunt and she rubbed herself to one more orgasm. She must have been close because it took less than a minute.

I helped her up and told her to go get the shower hot for me. She ran into the house while I pulled up my pants. There were mud spots on my knees, but it was worth it. I followed her in and saw her in the bathroom, with her hand testing the water temperature. I got in and told her that she better start scrubbing, because my body wasn't going to wash itself.

She washed me first and then took care of herself. She left the cum on her face for last. I think she liked the feeling, because she kept me between the water and herself to preserve the evidence. I moved to the back of the shower when I was clean so that she could wash herself. I asked if her master had ever had her shave her pubic hair.

She said, "No, we've never even talked about it. I don't wear too many bathing suits here in Idaho so there isn't much of a point."

"Would he get mad if I had you shave it off for me?"

"I don't think so, but why would you want me to?"

"You don't question me. You go do what I said. I'll give you ten minutes, and then you'll get a spanking for every hair I find below your neck."

I walked out and got a coke out of the refrigerator. I could hear Jim and Yolanda in the guest room, and they were both playing their parts with plenty of moans. I threw my jeans and clothes into the wash machine, but didn't start it. I went into the bedroom and sat in an armchair beside the bed. After fifteen minutes, I was just about to get up and find her when she walked in.

"Sir, I look like a little girl. Do you like little girls?"

"Tamara, you do look like a little girl with the small titties and no hair. I do like young girls, but not baby girls. I like to eat pussy, and I hate having to stop in the middle because of the feeling of a hairy tongue or hair in my teeth. Does your master eat your pussy?"

"No, sir. He's never done that."

I had her get on the bed and found that pink center and spent the next hour bring her from one orgasm to the next. You'd think I had out the whip the way she was moaning. She'd go from 'Please stop' to 'Please more'.

I was hard as a rock and after she had her last orgasm, I just moved up and went to town. I fucked her hard and she pulled her knees up by her ears. She had her arms through her legs and her elbows pushing her knees into the mattress. I was going as deep as I could and I could feel her cervix on every thrust. She loved it. I said, "Tamara, I'm going to cum in you this time. Is that OK?"

"Yes, sir. Put your baby in me. You're so big. We will have a half-black baby with a big fat cock. The master will love it."

I couldn't hold out any more and I blasted her full of my sperm. I was sweaty and covered in pussy juice. Tamara ended up covered in sweat and very exhausted. I took her hand and led her into the bathroom for another shower. When we finished, I gave her a t-shirt to wear and we walked out into the living room.

Jim was on the couch with Yolanda, and she also had a shirt on, but it was a button down.

Jim said, "I almost broke down the door a couple of times with all the noise you were making. What were you doing to her?"

"Tamara, show Jim my mark that I put on you."

She stood in front of him and lifted the bottom of the shirt. Jim looked and said, "You look like a young girl. Britt said he started with Yolanda's daughter, but I thought she was older."

Yolanda said, "She is. Britt just likes to eat off a clean plate. I'm sure all the noise was from the appetizer, main course and desert."

"With that kind of response, I may have to try a snack myself." Jim said.

"I hope you aren't mad. She said that she didn't think you'd mind." I said.

Jim replied, "I've never thought about it one way or the other. We watched you take her in the yard out the kitchen window. That was so hot, and then I had to get at these bags of fun with the biggest nipples I've ever seen. I wore myself out pretty quick it seems, and then we had to listen to you two for the last forty-five minutes."

The girls both were cold and went to get dressed. I asked Jim to take care of the place for us, and to keep an eye and an ear out for Jeremiah Phillips. I'd have an auctioneer come in and liquidate the place. I told him that if there was anything he could personally use and wanted to buy, that I'd make him a good deal. He said he'd stop by, look after the place, and maybe look around for runaway slaves. As he said that, Tamara slid on his lap and gave him a kiss. We decided to go out to dinner together, and then afterward went our separate ways.

I made love again with Yolanda later, and she thanked me for a fun-filled fantasy weekend. She asked what I had said to Jim and to Jeremiah to close the deal. She said, "John told me to make the deal happen even if we had to come up to his ridiculous price. You got him to sign with only five minutes of talking."

"I let him know that greedy pigs ended up slaughtered. This isn't the middle of Los Angeles. If he doesn't want to sell his land for a fair price, then his neighbor will. I had a handshake deal with Jim before I spoke with Mr. Phillips. I told him that Jim had agreed to carve out a hundred acres for me and would sell me an acre for $950. I can't help it if he wanted $2000 an acre for the other ninety-nine. I didn't write the contract that Jeremiah signed. I wasted a week of my time to come out here and get him to do something he already agreed to do, and then backed out. When I read the contract, I guess I saw a way to get a little something for my time. You can say I'm mean, but we overpaid for the land anyway, so it all evened out in the end.

"I'm glad that you're on my side."

"Yolanda, I'm on your side. I like being inside of you a lot, but also like spending time with smart, beautiful women whenever I can. I forgot to ask about Monica. How is she doing?"

"She's doing well. She's working on her MBA at Wharton, but wants to get into sales of some kind."

"She should take some classes in biology and pre-med. Medical sales are a field with tremendous potential for high profits."

"I'll mention it to her."

I dropped her off at the airport and then just kept the rental car. I told them I'd drop it off somewhere."

I drove east on I-90 and stopped at all the job sites we were building along the way. I made it to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on Wednesday, and dropped the car off before catching a plane to Houston. I called John from the airport and he told me where I was meeting up with Samantha. He said that Yolanda had told him the story of buying Mr. Phillips farm. When he told Beth that, she was so pissed at Mr. Phillips for wasting my time; she thought I should have left him with just the clothes on his back.

"John, Beth is always looking out for me. When the kids go off to school, I may hire her as a bodyguard."

"I'll tell her to start training now. Why did it take so long to get out of there if you closed the deal on Friday?"

"I wanted to make sure he didn't come back to 'borrow' any of his old possessions. I also arranged for a neighbor to watch over the place, and share crop the hundred and fifty acres we don't develop. He's going to work with your guy to arrange to auction off the stuff left at the farm. I also wanted to relax for ten minutes."

I took a cab to the Houston Hilton, called from the lobby phone, and asked them to connect me to Sam's room. She answered and invited me up. I got a big hug, and she said that she and Rob had done a great deal of hard work to get everything together. She was meeting him in the morning to finish the presentation, and then we were all meeting for dinner before the presentation on Friday. I decided to book us here through the weekend in the event we ran over or needed more time.

"Are you working tonight, or can I take you out for dinner?"

"Britt, I was just finishing up. Are you staying here with me, or getting your own room?"

"Why don't I get a suite in the event I need a place to work, and then you can come up when you've time? I'll go see what they have and drop off my bags. I'll stop back here in thirty minutes. Do you have a car or do we need a cab?"

"I have a car, so we can get to wherever we need to go."

I got a one-bedroom suite with a living room and a desk for working. I changed into some nicer clothes and filled the laundry bag for the hotel to send out for me. Sam and I had a nice dinner of Mexican or Tex-Mex food, and I loved the chili rellenos. As I was driving us back to the hotel, I saw a sign for a strip club. I remembered the stories and the action in the hotel room in Cincinnati and pulled in. Everything is big in Texas and this place was huge. There were three different stages and some out-of-the-way booths for lap dances and private parties. Sam had never been in one before so I paid the cover charge for me and led her in (no cover charge for the ladies). The lights and sounds blew her away. We sat at a table just back from the stage and we could see the next stage as well. The dancer on the stage, now half way through her song, was wearing only a G-string while grinding on the pole in front of her.

I could see Sam's nipples trying to push through her shirt. We were also watching the second girl who was a smaller Asian girl. I remembered walking in on Judy with Sam and Paige. I handed Sam a couple of dollars and said, "Go slip these in Judy's thong. I know you like oriental ladies."

She felt embarrassed, but stood up and walked over to the stage. The dancer walked over and held out her garter for Sam to slip in the money. When she finished, the girl moved closer, gave her a kiss, and then ran the front of her thong up Sam's arm. Sam hurried back to the table and was in lust. We watched another girl come on stage as we nursed our beers. The Asian girl came out and sat at our table. She said 'Hi' and introduced herself as Osaka. She thanked Sam for her tip and said that it made a lot of others follow suit. She said that most men have a fantasy of being with two girls at the same time. She was looking at me and talking to Sam.

Sam said, "He doesn't have to fantasize about that. I've seen him take care of four women at the same time. He brought me here to get me all hot and bothered, before he takes me back and fucks me again."

Osaka said, "There are many pretenders that come in here. It must feel nice to have found a real man. Can I dance for you?"

Sam looked at me and I said, "Is there some place more private? Just walking in as a woman gets people's attention. If I'm paying for a dance, I don't want Samantha to end up being the attraction."

"Follow me. There's a private booth over here."

I grabbed both beers, Osaka grabbed Sam's hand, and I followed them to the private booth in the back. On the way, I signaled to a pretty brunette that reminded me of Christine from the cruise. She was very athletic looking, and quite cute in the face with a large set of breasts. The booth was a half circle red leather booth with table at coffee table height. The girls could dance on the table or on the booth. When they closed the curtain, Sam took a seat and I had the girls go to work on her. They were both topless, and then in turn bottomless, in the first two minutes. They were kissing each other and rubbing their bodies on Sam. I watched as they both rubbed their pubic mounds on Sam's tits. Osaka had her knee up against Sam's clit and I could see Sam thrusting against it, close to getting off. As the song was ending, I told them to keep going.

As time passed, the two girls were getting more adventurous and were practically masturbating themselves and Sam all through the second song. The dances were ten dollars each and I handed each of them thirty dollars. The new girl sat down between Sam and me and introduced herself as Sissy. She'd put her thong back on, but she was still topless. She reached out and felt my cock that was lying on my thigh and said, "Can I dance for you?"

Sam said, "I'm buying if you want a dance."

I said, "Let's go back to my suite and you can give me a real dance, and I'll even provide the pole."

"I can't deny that's what I'd rather do as well."

Osaka said, "You two have fun. Thanks for stopping by."

I drove back to the Hilton while Sam gently rubbed my cock against my thigh. When we got to the suite, there were other tall buildings around so we closed the blinds and turned on some music. Sam did a slow dance for me, and then she took out my dick and started to suck it. She was very good at it, and after a couple of minutes, she climbed up in my lap and slid down my pole. She did a wonderful pole dance that even included some bump and grind. I had forgotten to use a rubber, but when I asked her, she said she was safe, so I let her continue. She had a small orgasm before I filled her with my cum. She stayed in place, using her inner muscles to massage my cock and keep it from going soft. When it was firm again, she hopped off and led me to the bedroom. I was usually in charge, but she knew what she wanted.

She wanted me to eat her. I love to eat pussy, but the thought of the fresh and full cream pie in her pussy wasn't something I craved. Instead I used my finger to fuck her, and then would make her lick the cum off my fingers. After a while, I ended up bored with that. Remembering just a week ago of my time with Tamara, I pushed her knees up by her head then fucked her hard, fast and deep. I came in her again before I rolled over and was ready for sleep. Sam went into the bathroom to clean herself up, and then brought out a washcloth for me. As she went to wipe off my cock, I grabbed her wrist and pulled her to me, guiding her mouth to my cock. If she likes cream pies, let her eat them. She opened her mouth and took a couple of minutes to clean me up. I could hear her in the other room brushing her teeth as I drifted off to sleep.

The next morning I woke up and went out into the sitting room to do my work out, before heading out for a six-mile run. I had breakfast in the hotel restaurant with Sam before she went off to work. I didn't have a car, so I looked up the local YMCA and took a cab over to use the pool. I think best while I'm either running or swimming. The cadence lets my mind focus as a piano player uses a metronome. I was on track for the land purchases and construction schedule. The truck manufacturer was building our trucks faster than the schedule had them. The new design that allowed for quick maintenance also achieved faster manufacturing of the new units. I had a board meeting planned for the next week in Nashville with Craig and his team.

I was on track, on schedule, and within budget. That feat isn't the norm in business, but we budgeted high to take into account the fast-paced labor-intensive work. I hate when government runs over their projections on every project they ever set up, and there's no accountability. If we run over, I expect there will be a great reason why it happened, and then we look at ways to save somewhere else. I was running through everything in my mind as I swam along. It was the middle of the morning and an odd time. The early people were at work. The moms were still getting the kids off to school and cleaning up the morning mess. I climbed out and I was drying off when the lifeguard asked, "Do you swim two miles every day?"

"I was just swimming. I wasn't counting laps. It felt great though. I travel all the time, and finding a nice pool to stretch out in is wonderful."

"You looked strong and comfortable in the water."

"Thanks, you look pretty good up there on the stand."

"Thanks, you look good out of the water too. Are you a student around here? I go to U of H."

"No, I graduated last year from Florida. I'm just in town for work. I may stop by over the weekend. Is there a day that would be less crowded?"

"The pool is open from 6 AM until 8 PM every day of the week. Sunday mornings is slow because of church. I'll be working then."

"Well that's when I'll try to stop by. My name is Britt, by the way."

"My friends call me Pepper."

"That's a cute name. I like sweet girls, but I like spicy as well."

She blushed a bit, and waved as I headed to the locker room to change.

I called John and he told me that I needed to hire a secretary. He said that he loved to hear from me, but he felt like he was wearing two hats. I thought about it and asked if he had anyone in mind. "Maybe your wife would like to hear from her long-lost boyfriend more often."

Their kids were in school so she could be free.

John said, "I don't know if you want your secretary in Orlando, but she's said she wouldn't mind finding something to do."

I said, "I'll call her and see if she has any interest." He told me that he'd see me next week for the board meeting.

I called Beth. "Hey, baby, what're you wearing?"

"Britt, what are you doing calling the house at this time of day?"

"John's secretary said he was off getting some afternoon pussy, so I figured he was there. Can I talk to him?"

"He better not be. He isn't here."

"I know. I just spoke to him. He told me that my life was taking up too much of his time, and that I needed to find some young pretty lady to help me manage my schedule, and to take my messages for me. So I thought about all the pretty young women that I know and would trust to manage my life, and then wondered what she was wearing and gave her a call."

"Britt, you want me to be your secretary?"

"You could work from home, or I can find an office for you to use. I have that space down on Lake Eola. You'd receive great pay, and would sometimes have to take business trips to meet your boss. I also know of a place on Maui that's always good for a business meeting, and you can go topless on the beach between meetings. What do you say?"

Beth said, "I'll talk to John. How much time do you think it will take each week for me to do my job?"

"I'm not sure. Maybe I could build a nice boathouse on the lot next to Mom and set up an office. It could overlook the lake. You could walk to work, and I could keep a bed there if I needed a place to sleep."

"You're incorrigible."

"I like smart women that know big words. Seriously, I'd check in and get messages from you and others could call and leave messages for me. I may need you to plan trips or set up meetings. If it gets to be too much, we can hire an assistant for you, and you can just come out and give me a massage before I go to sleep each night."

"What about the kids?"

"If you want to have kids, I can help you get pregnant."

"Britt, I mean seriously, can I really do the job and still be there for my kids?"

"Beth, I think it would work out. You can buy an answering machine for all I care, as long as I get the messages. You may want to set up a time that you'll be there for live calls and let the after-hours calls go on the machine. What do you think?"

"I think you just hired a new secretary. How much will I get paid?"

"How much did John make last year?"

"He made around $100,000. It was a very good year with all the business you've brought him."

"How much do you want?"

"How about $10,000? If that's too much I can take less."

I said, "Beth, you aren't a message taker. That's just one of your tasks. You're the face of William Britton. The way you act and respond to others is how they'll see me. This isn't a part-time thing to make a couple of dollars like Tupperware. I'll pay you $50,000 a year, plus all expenses for supplies and incidentals. You'll have a company credit card. You may have to take a trip or two, but I'll keep them to a minimum because of the kids. I do want you to talk to John, and make sure he understands that this is a real job with real responsibilities."

"Britt, wow. I'll talk to John, but I want to do this. It's not just for the money, but also for the sense of purpose and responsibility. John says that you'll become one of the most powerful men in America when this is up and running, and honestly, it makes me wet when I think about that kind of power and how close I'll be to it."

I made phone calls all day, and when I hung up from the last call, I was so pleased with the people I had picked to fill the different leadership positions across the different companies. They were all top-notch and understood the ideas, goals and responsibilities they each had. They worked well together, and had the experience to find creative solutions to the problems that would come up.

I went down to the lobby for a beer, and was on my second when Rob and Sam came in. I shook Rob's hand and gave Sam a hug. Rob asked about my day; I told him that it had been great so far. They joined me for a drink and then we went out to have some dinner. I wanted some seafood and had a shrimp pasta dish made scampi style that was simply delicious. I also ordered some oysters on the half-shell, and told Rob and Sam that they were good for the stamina if either were planning to get lucky later. They both had a couple, so I ordered another dozen.

When dinner was over, Rob drove us back to the hotel. I invited them up to my room for another drink, and so that we could continue to discuss business. I was still very protective of my ideas, and any public place was a place to keep my mouth shut. I ordered two bottles of wine after checking with them. Sam said she wanted to stop by her room and freshen up, but would be up in ten minutes. I offered Rob a chance to freshen up as well. I'm always casual but they work for IBM, so the uniform is dark suits or dark suits.

Sam had changed into some jeans to match me, and Rob lost the jacket and tie. We talked about the project and all the functionality that was available. I told them that I wanted them to prepare a presentation for the following week in Nashville if they could make it. Rob said they'd be there.

"Rob, the team I have in place knows their stuff. They're the best of the best. I want you to lay out your thoughts and ideas, and then I want my team to tear them apart. I don't want you to get upset if they say negative things. I want them to have input for what they need to grow and run the company. I'd rather they change something before we've spent the money and, more importantly, the time to build it the wrong way. I'll pay you time and materials to come up with the flow chart and documentation. Then there's still a requirement for me to put it out for bid. I am hoping you can come in at a price where you can do the entire project, for hardware, software and development, all as one reasonably costing package."

"I think we can do that. I look forward to the meeting next week."

"Most of the people in the meeting will have a C to start their title (CEO, COO, CIO, and CFO). We will all have on jeans. Even my attorney will have on jeans. If you show up in a suit, we may not let you in. Sam, you can wear whatever you want, as pretty as you are."

Rob said, "I'll just have to tell the big boss that the customer requested it."

After we had talked for an hour or so, we saw that the last bottle only had a tiny bit left inside. I stood and so did Rob. I split the rest of the wine between Sam's glass and my glass. Rob and I shook hands and he said he'd see us in the morning. Sam and I talked about our days while we sipped our wine. She stood and excused herself. When she came back from the bathroom, she was wearing a silky little nightie. I gave a low whistle.

She said, "I was too horny last night to stop and put this on, but I bought it special just for you."

"I appreciate the effort. You look hot. I want to spend some time eating that pussy before I fuck it tonight."

She came over and slid on to my lap and we started to kiss. We were a lot less frantic tonight. We made love a couple of times after I ate her to a couple of orgasms. I left her nightie on and the silk felt good between us as we rubbed our bodies together. I was up early and did my workout. It was eight AM when I called Beth.

"What're you wearing?"

"Good morning, boss man."

"Hey, how did the meeting with John go?" I asked.

"It was a little iffy at first, because he was looking at it like a message taker. I finally said, 'John, I'm going to become the assistant to your boss. I'm going to become the gatekeeper to the owner. I'm taking this job, unless you can tell me a real reason why I shouldn't. He asked how much the pay was, and when I told him, I think he started to look at this job for what it really is."

"Now is the first test."

"What is it?"

"We have a board meeting on Tuesday in Nashville. I want you there. You can fly in Monday night or first thing on Tuesday. You should plan on spending the night on Tuesday, and you can fly back any time on Wednesday."

"I'll talk to my mom. How often will I be making these trips?"

"We have the meetings monthly, but I'm not sure if I'll need you at all of them. Some of them for certain, though. I want you to meet everyone and to let everyone meet you. I want you to have business cards made. If you want a PO Box, make it happen, as that sounds like a good idea in case you decide to change office locations. I'll need a box of cards as well, with your name and number on the back. You'll need to set up a phone number that can ring wherever you want it to. Go sit with a sales man and figure it out. Buy an answering machine. Keep your receipts. Let me know when you want to fly. If you don't want to stay with John, you can stay in my room, or I can get you your own. You work for WB Consulting, not any of these other companies, and not for your husband."

"Yes sir."

"Read me the list."

She'd taken perfect notes and had everything down. I told her that she was going to do great.

The meetings at IBM were very thorough. We covered the entire network. We discussed the functionality and business needs the way I saw them. They talked about time-lines and installation needs. At the end of the day, we were all tired and all felt as if we had accomplished a lot.

Rob went home to his family, and Sam and I stopped for some fish and chips. She said that she had some other accounts that she needed to catch up on, and was flying back to Denver on the 9:30 flight. I went back to the hotel and called Beth.

"Hey, what're you wearing?"

"Just my robe. We're going out to dinner and I'm getting ready."

"OK, I've something to dream about. What did you figure out?"

"John said that he'd like for me to sleep with him. He's flying in on the early morning flight on Tuesday, and flying back on the early morning flight on Wednesday." She said.

She gave me the flight numbers and I wrote them down, and told her that I'd book everything and she could pick up her ticket at the gate. She told me about everything on her list, and that her mom said that she'd sit for the kids whenever she had to go out-of-town.

Sam stopped by around seven to say goodbye. I gave her a kiss and felt her up. I thought about going to the airport and getting a car, but I could always take a cab or walk. I thanked her for the special nightie and she went down to check out.

I wasn't sure what to do in Houston on a Friday night. I put on my shoes and went for a run. I didn't know where I was but I could tell by the skyline how to get back. I was near the University when I saw a girl parked on the side of the road. She was crying, so I stopped and knocked on her window. She looked up and rolled it down a couple of inches.

I asked, "Are you alright?"

"I have a flat tire and don't know what to do."

I told her to pop open the trunk. She got out of the car to open up the trunk, so I could help her get the car jacked up and change the tire. I found out that her name was Hannah and that she was new to Houston. She'd gotten into the school here, but her parents wanted her to live at home and go to Hofstra on Long Island. She had different ideas. She wanted to end up with her boyfriend, so she came to U of H. A week after she started, she got into a big fight with her boyfriend and was all on her own. Her parents weren't supporting her and she was working and going to school. She was on her way to work when her car broke down. As it happened, she worked at the club that Sam and I had gone to on Wednesday night.

I wished her luck, and tried to get the black off my hands, wiping them on the grass on the side of the road. I ran back to the hotel and took a shower. I decided to go back to the club and just have a couple of beers while I watched the girls. I sat near the back and ordered a beer. Candy saw me and came over to say hi. She asked if I had fun with my date the other night.

"Hey Candy, thanks for the other night. I got a real pole dance, if you know what I mean. Sam had to fly back to Denver, but I'll see her in Nashville next week."

"Where are you both from? It seems like all you do is fly places."

"Sometimes I wonder. I met her in a bar in Cincinnati. Then I flew to Idaho and she went home to Denver. We both flew here. She came in on Monday, and I flew in from South Dakota on Wednesday. She flew back to Colorado, and will meet me in Nashville on Tuesday. I live out of a suitcase, but actually have two apartments one in Orlando and one in Nashville."

"Wow. Is it nice to see so much of the world?"

"Candy, I see the inside of hotels and offices. I'm a businessman. I came by to see if Hannah is alright."

"You mean Honey? She was late, and the boss chewed her out."

"Can you send the boss over?"

"Sure."

I soon saw a man in a suit heading my way. He stopped and asked if there was a problem.

"No, there isn't a problem. Can you sit down for a minute?" I asked. He did sit down and I continued. "I was just stopping by to make sure that Hannah was alright. I heard that she got in trouble for being late. I was out for a run earlier when I saw her broken down on the side of the road with a flat tire. I guess no one ever taught her how to change a tire. She is all alone here and trying to put herself through college. I don't know how good she is at dancing, but she seemed like a nice girl. She was crying because she didn't know what to do with the car trouble."

"Most of the times they're just lazy or something. I'll tell her that I'm sorry for yelling at her. Thanks for stopping by, and I'll send over a drink on the house."

"I know you aren't these girls' dad, but my guess is that most don't live at home with their folks. They're desperate or determined. They may need some help from time to time. I don't know if Hannah has a clue on how to get her flat tire fixed even if she did have the money. You may want to talk to the girls from time to time to see if they need help with crap that you and I deal with every day. They have trouble with landlords, cars and whatever. It isn't my business but I thought it would be an idea worth passing on."

"I'll think about it. I hear what you're saying. Thanks."

I was just finishing my beer on the house and getting ready to go when Hannah or 'Honey' came over. She thanked me again for helping her and said that the manager had apologized for yelling at her. He also offered to go with her to get her tire fixed if she needed help.

I told her that I was happy for her and left. I didn't see a cab out front, so I just walked back to the hotel. It was a couple of miles but the air was cool and I didn't have anything I needed to do. The following morning I called my travel agent. He actually is busy on Saturday mornings planning trips for families. I had him book a flight to Nashville for me around noon and to get Beth tickets for her to pick up at the airport for her trip to Nashville. I also had him get a limo for her for the trip from the airport to the office.

The office in Nashville was right downtown. I could have put it at a truck stop but I knew we'd want a place for later. It was a six-story brick building with a large parking garage out back. We bought it. I had the top floor as my apartment for now. I should have it divided into four or six apartments based on the size, but hadn't done it yet.

On the fifth floor were offices and a large conference room. Floors two, three and four were other offices or space to grow into. The first floor housed a restaurant that was already rented out. I took a cab from the airport. I never knew if I'd be gone a day or a month so I saved on airport parking by taking a cab. I dropped my bags, went down for an early dinner, and then went through the mail. I'd need to get the new PO Box and let Beth start to pay my bills.

I read some before I went to bed. Sunday I did a full workout since I was in town and had access to a pool. Monday I was in the office and reviewing reports for the meeting the next day.

Tuesday, I was in the conference room writing some notes for the meeting, when Beth came in smiling ear to ear. I stood and gave her a hug. I asked how her flight was and she said, "John was a little pissed when he went back to his seat and I sat in first class. He was walking to the cab stand when I saw the limo driver. I let him ride along."

"Beth, you work for me. John works for his firm. He answers to his firm and you answer to me. When you show up for a meeting I want you ready to work. I don't want you hungry, or trying to work out a kink in your back. You may need some room to work on the plane or in a car, so plan ahead."

"Yes sir."

"Do you have your business cards?"

"I do. Here are mine, and I've your new cards as well."

I looked them over and told her they looked good. I said, "While you're here, I'd like to add you to my personal checking account, and then send my bills to your PO Box, so that you can pay them for me while I travel. We have a secretary for the meeting, so you don't have to take notes on everything, but in case there's something I want you to take notes on, I want you to sit next to me and I'll tap your leg or tell you. OK?"

"I can try. Just let me know if I'm doing something wrong or you want it done differently."

"I will."

They called the meeting to order and we went through old business and progress reports. We talked about the land purchases and construction. When it came to new business, I had two hours. I said, "It is almost lunch time. I have to run out and will be back in an hour. I'll let my guests know that we will be ready for them at 12:30, if that's alright with everyone?"

It was. I called to the hotel and told Rob that we'd be ready at 12:30, and then Beth and I ran over to the bank. I had her added to my account and then had the bank print off five hundred checks for her. I set us both up to get duplicate statements.

I stopped in and picked up sandwiches for us before heading back to the meeting.



-------

Chapter 5


I stopped in and picked up sandwiches for us before heading back to the meeting.

Rob and Samantha arrived right on time and joined the group. I had Joe Carlson provide some background information on how he used the UPC code technology at the Port of Seattle. After he explained the basics of the functionality and the benefits in time and money, it was my turn to say a few words.

"Thanks, Joe. I want you and Craig to pay special attention to what they're presenting. That goes for every division. To achieve the best results, we must work as a team. I traveled to Houston last week and sat down with Rob and Samantha or Sam to go over our business model. The overall model calls for us to manage trucks, trailers, loads within the trailer, drivers and other things. We will have all the scanners tied to a time clock so that we can derive average speeds; we can tie refills to specific trucks and drivers to those trucks to see if something is out of the window of acceptable performance. This will also offer us information on how to manage the mileage for preventative maintenance work. I tried to think of everything that we might want as far as the accumulation of data.

Rob and Sam will be laying out their plan based on my criteria. However, during your analysis, you may find something either major or minor that we need to change or add. I've told them that they can expect criticism and changes. I'd rather make those changes or additions on paper today than pay a development team to recode the software later. Try to hold your questions and comments until the end but if something just doesn't sound right please speak up so everyone understands the process correctly. Anything before they start?"

Craig Warren the CEO of Freedom trucking said, "Rob before you start, if half of what Britt just said is true, then this meeting has already made my day. I'm looking forward to what this new technology could mean for our company. Thanks for coming to talk to us today."

Rob stood up and made some basic introductions of himself and the company before turning it over to Sam. Next Sam went through their understanding of our business plan. She then detailed the list of needs that we discussed in Houston and in Cincinnati. When she finished, she asked if there were any questions or comments. She asked if we had missed anything.

What followed was some back and forth discussions about different reports that they'd need, but with the data already there, the formulas would be easy to add in to the mix.

Rob was up next and talked in general about the technology and the overall functionality of the system's tools. He covered the entire process from installation, to use, and then to system deliverables. There was a question and answer session following Rob's presentation and then we got out the whiteboards and started to talk about what we had gotten right and what we had gotten wrong. We covered things that we needed to add and things that we needed to change. We talked about locations, installations and everything in between. There were many smiles around the room, except for the construction manager. The others wanted more data, which meant more data entry points or more scanners.

I was listening out of one ear and thinking when I thought about customer cards. A person could fill up with gas and scan their card outside before coming in to receive a free cup of coffee or fountain drink. Of course there would be other items surrounding the coffee and fountain drinks for a customer to buy. We could even have family cards where if the husband stopped by on his way to work, he'd get a free cup of coffee. If his wife stopped by later, she'd get a free cup as well. She may also pick up a muffin or fill up her car with gasoline. The use of cards and computers would raise the average sale amount per customer and make their stopping at our stations more of a habit. We'd have to build more stations besides the truck stops, but the larger purchasing power would lower our costs and raise profits.

When it wound down and everyone had their say, I asked if there was any other new business but there wasn't any. I stood and then had Beth stand.

"I'd like to introduce you to Beth Overstreet. I want you all to carry at least five of her cards wherever you go. She's the new me. Half the time, when I wake up, it seems that I don't even know where I'm at, so I've brought Beth on to manage my calls and schedule. I'm still only one person so I can only be in one place at a time. I'll check in with Beth a few times during each day. During that time, she'll give me any messages that you left. When you talk with her she can let you know, to the best of her knowledge, my current location and an approximation on the time that you might receive a return call from me. I've asked her not to answer calls twenty-four hours a day. She has two beautiful kids that need to have a mother so she'll answer your calls live during business hours unless she's doing something else. She'll have an answering machine that will be on twenty-four hours a day. Be nice to her and she'll be nice to you. Be mean or short with her and you'll deal with me. I know that at times, you find it frustrating to track me down but this is the best I can do for now."

Craig said, "Unless there's any other business, this meeting is now over, and we will all be meeting for drinks and dinner at the Stock-Yard Restaurant."

We had our own private dining room and it was great to see everyone and introduce everyone personally to Beth. I finally broke away and spoke with John Beth's husband.

"Hey, old man. How is everything going at home with Beth taking this new job?"

"Britt, being very honest, I was kind of pissed at first. I know you two love to flirt and that you had done things together back in Gainesville. I thought this was just a game. When I started to get upset though, Beth stepped in and pointed out that she was a person with a brain and you selecting her as personal assistant to someone in your position, was a big responsibility. She told me that she could help this company succeed or cause more problems. The more I thought about it, the more I looked at it in a different way."

"I think she had the same realization on the phone. She asked for a salary of around $5 an hour. I don't need a babysitter. I need someone to make my life easier. I need someone to tell CEOs to make up their own mind because that's what we are paying them to do. I need someone to say "no".

"When she told me her salary, it blew me away. She's as sharp as a tack and you best believe that she's not afraid to say 'no'. I think you'll get exactly what you're paying for."

"John on a serious note, I do love Beth but not in a steal her away from you kind of way. She's part mother, part moral compass, part sexy lady and overall someone I can trust to look out for little old Britt. I sometimes need someone to tell me what to do. Sometimes I'm too close to the situation and need someone to say, 'Britt, I love you but that's the dumbest thing I've ever heard'."

"She loves you Britt. I'm not worried about her leaving, but I'm afraid that every time she sees you that she'll be asking for a permission slip. You do still ask for those don't you?"

"Yes, with the sole exception of Peter's wife. I pretend I have it, but I don't see her very often although I should probably come to Orlando to check on her and her lovely body."

"Beth has my permission too but if you or she ever feels like she's drifting away from me I'll ask her to stop."

"John, I don't take that trust lightly and I don't think I'll abuse the privilege very often. I enjoy flirting with her as much as being with her, but I think you like it better too. It's my responsibility to do the work and you enjoy the rewards. You haven't seen her work uniform yet but you'll see it more than me. Just remember that you both work for me and during our discussions, you'll both learn some things that you aren't supposed to share with the other. I can't think of any off of the top of my head, but keep that in mind just like I'll keep in mind that she's married to one of my best friends in the world."

John said, "I'll remember that. Thanks for seeing the great person that Beth is. I think she'll help you a lot. I know that I've had more time in the last couple days."

"John, you did a good job as my secretary but my new one is much cuter."

We shook hands and I went over to talk to Jay Cathcart the overseer of all the construction projects. I apologized for all the changes that we made today. "Jay we're doing something new and something big." I said. "I expect that we will be making changes every day as we try to solve problems that we don't even know exist yet. If we can figure them out now it will save us work, time and money later. If you have a ditch in the ground for a pipe to carry a wire, throw in three more and cover up the ends. We may never use them or we may use them all. A piece of pipe is cheap compared to needing to dig up the parking lot again in two years. After sitting through the discussion do you see the benefits of the new products you'll be installing?"

Jay said, "Britt, I see the benefit but I also see the work. I know that the plans provided specific locations and conduit to take care of the scanners, but I think after this meeting that we may need to double the locations around the truck stops."

"Jay if you were collecting money would you rather use one hand or ten?"

"I know you're right. All of my guys call in once a day. By next week, these will all be on the drawings."

"Thanks Jay. You have to remember that trucks deliver everything that you buy. We tack on the cost of shipping to every purchase. That's first shipping the raw materials to the plant to make the parts and then shipping the parts to the manufacturer or assembler. The assembler ships to a warehouse or distributor and they ship it to the retail store. The technology you're installing will drop the cost of shipping by a great deal. We'll pass the savings on to the end customer. By you installing these scanners you're giving every family a $500 Christmas present every year. Does that help you understand why this is important? Think of the bicycles and games, family trips and medical bills that you'll be helping them buy with money that we provide."

"I guess I see your point. I just wish you'd have thought of it sooner."

"So do I. There's only one perfect person in the history of man and I'm not him. I'm far from it."

"I hear you. Thanks Britt."

"By the way, a couple of weeks ago, I stopped by some of the sites in Montana, Wyoming and South Dakota. They were all dried in and had people working on the construction."

"That's John Baker's territory. He used to head construction for Piggly Wiggly and he's a sharp guy."

"Thanks Jay. Keep up the good work."

"I'll try," he said.

I found Beth talking with Craig. I walked up and listened to them for a bit, until I finally said, "Craig I see you've met your and my new best friend."

Craig said, "I'm buying her as many drinks as I can. I've been very frustrated at times waiting a week to get an answer to a question."

"Beth can answer them for me or you can just go with your gut. What do you think of the technology we discussed today?"

"Britt, it blew me away. I've heard your story and I understand the premise of all your ideas. I just have always had this feeling in my gut that asks the question 'How will I make this all function'. After today I feel that the weight has lifted and I'm finally free to worry about other things."

"Craig, speaking about worrying about things, I want to go up and visit the Superior Trucks company that we own. I'd like for you to come with me so I can try to figure out a few things if you can spare a day or two?"

"Sure, when do you want to go?"

"How's about we try to make next Monday if that works for everyone. I can have Beth call Roy, the CEO, and make sure he'll have time."

"That sounds good. Let my secretary know and she can book my flight."

Beth said, "Britt, I know I'm new here but have you ever thought about starting a travel agency?"

"That may sound great, but I don't want to become a travel agent."

"Britt, I read your business plan after you hired me. I see all the services that you'll need for your employees and the public-at-large. A travel agent gets 10-15% of the cost of hotels, plane tickets or anything else they book. How many of the people driving down the interstate and stopping at your truck stops may want to know that they'll have a hotel to stay at when they stop for the night? You and Craig are flying to Oregon to visit the factory and I imagine that you'll stay in a hotel while you're there. You could buy a small well run agency and then grow it as you grow your business. You spend enough on travel that your discount will more than pay for the employee that books your travel."

"You've only been working for me for a couple of days and you're already looking for a raise. See what happens when I let you fly first class? You get to dream while your husband is in the back wondering why the kid behind him keeps kicking the back of his seat and his parent's don't do shit to stop it."

"I don't want a raise. I want you to know that I'm working hard for your company."

"Thanks. Do I have to remind you later or will you remember to set up the meeting in Oregon. Make sure that you have Craig and I seated next to each other so we can talk on the plane and have my lazy attorney find me a travel agency."

She pointed to her temple and said, "Consider it done sir."

"Good girl."

We all sat down and had a great meal. Sam and Rob had spent a lot of time with Joe Carlson, the COO, and Jay had joined the discussion when they sat down for dinner. I had eaten a lot of steak over the last week so I had the Caesar salad to start, followed by a three-pound lobster and a side of asparagus. With the dressing and sauces, it was far from a healthy meal but I was still young and working out regularly so I wasn't worried. Beth gave me a look but didn't comment.

After dinner, I turned the scanner specifics into the hands of Joe. Rob and Sam would follow-up. I mentioned to Joe about bidding out the software development and that even if we used IBM and I hope we did, that the program code was to belong to us as part of the contract. He said that he understood. I asked how he was enjoying the life in Tennessee. He said that it was hard to beat summer in Seattle but not having it be dark at four o'clock in the afternoon in the wintertime was very nice.

Dinner broke up and people started to head home or back to their hotels. I asked John if they'd like to come back for a drink. He said, "Britt, I'm beat. Do you mind if I pass?"

"John, I travel all the time. I know what you're feeling. I'm fine. Make sure that since the kids are in Orlando that you do take time to show my assistant how special she is. I think she just added several million a year in income to my business plan and added some more work to your M&A (mergers and acquisitions) department."

"Good night Britt. It's always good to see you, my friend. Take care."

I received a hug and kiss from my new assistant.

The rest of the week, I was crossing things off my list, and Beth was picking up speed with her work. Mary, her little girl, was five and went to kindergarten, while Johnny was in second grade. Beth was going to set up her office at home but didn't want to lose their guest room.

I made a call to grandpa and asked about the lot between him and mom. I asked if he'd sell it to me.

"Britt, I was saving it for you so whenever you want it just let me know."

"Grandpa, I want to build a dock with a boathouse. I want the boathouse to have a small kitchen and a living room with glass on the water end. I also want a garage style door to open on to a deck. I want a second floor with a small office and a Murphy bed. I also want another deck that's over the deck below. It will need to have a bathroom with a shower. I can use it when I need to, but I'm thinking of using it for an office now. When I build a house it will already be in place as the perfect party spot for using the lake."

Grandpa said, "I think it's a great idea. The restrictions around construction of docks and boathouses keep getting tighter. If you build it now then even if you have to remodel later, you'd probably be grandfathered in."

"Can you make it happen or do I need to get involved?"

"I'm retired now and we're building our house next door. I'll see about doing the same thing with mine. I'm thinking that on the opposite side from the deck, I'll put a covered boat lift and a storage closet on the end opposite the lake."

"That sounds great. Can you get the drawings over to Beth Overstreet? She's now my new personal assistant. She'll be working in the office until she outgrows it. She can make sure that she likes it and then send it to me for approval."

"I'll do that. Are you doing all right? I know you've got a bunch of money but are you doing alright with the stress of starting a new business?"

"I'm doing well. It comes and goes. I get a new idea or focus and then it's a few weeks or months of high stress. When I get the idea developed, I then push the work to an employee to figure out the implementation. They go out and find the best person to take care of the responsibility and then they make a job offer to that person. Currently, we're very top-heavy with a great management team but it saves me a ton of stress. They also have great ideas that create more stress. So far, this week is light so I'll spend time swimming and running more than I do when I'm on the road. The exercise reduces the stress as well. As of now, I'm happy and excited about where we are. How's grandma doing with the move to Florida?"

"Britt, almost every weekend we've used your condo at the beach she likes to take long walks in the morning and evenings. We've designed the lake house without stairs, so that we can enjoy it for a long time. We're putting in special places where she can read and do her crafts. She's even said she's thinking about taking up golf. She's exploring the possibilities. She feels blessed with the wealth we now have and has become involved at the children's hospital and the local library reading to little kids at both places. She's great."

"How are you doing?"

"I'm great as well. I talked to your friend Doug about building my house and he referred me to his dad's old partner, Mr. Casey. It seems that they've buried the hatchet and are getting along well. He's hired Doug's company to do some remodeling for them so they can keep their crews busy on new construction. I stop by and check on the job but I can't complain about too much. I was talking to the owner and he said that they really go the extra mile for their customers. He told me that Mr. Hennessey had made it a cornerstone of their business and after he passed on, the policies stayed in place. He told me about some of the ideas that you gave to Mr. Hennessey. They've even added some more. I like that when I move in, they give me the names and contact information of every sub-contractor for later work. I'll have every warranty on every appliance recorded and in a notebook with the make and model of everything in the house. If I need to replace a tile or match a paint color it's all in the book."

"That's what I call attention to detail. I'm sure he's doing very well."

"He is. He said to tell you hi and to thank you for looking after Doug."

"Thanks Grandpa."

"I have to get ready for my golf game. I have a tee time in thirty minutes. I'll get with the designer to draw up the boathouse plans. Take care of yourself, Britt."

"I love you Grandpa. Thanks for everything."

I called Beth to check in with her. "Hey Beth how are you?"

"Don't you want to know what I'm wearing?"

"What're you wearing, Beth?"

"Shorts and a t-shirt."

"I'm going to get you a work uniform so you can reflect the company image."

"Really? I don't see too many people working here out of my home."

I said, "Beth, I just got off of the phone. I was working on having your new office designed and built."

"You're going to build an office? Can't you just rent something somewhere?"

"Yes, but I want you to enjoy the space. Would you like to work all day looking at the parking lot out the front window?"

"No, but I could live with it."

"I wanted to have a boathouse built over next to my mom's house. I'm going to make that your office. Think about what you'll want and need. We will deliver the plans to you in a week or two. I want you to go over the plans and add in what you want. When you're happy with them, I want you to send them to me so I can approve them and they can start building it. You'll have a view of the lake out of your window and a deck to sit in the sun while you work."

"That sounds great. Will there be parking and what about package deliveries?"

"Figure out what you need, and get it on the plan. You may want to add a garage to park in and a doggie door for packages. That's up to you. You may want the UPS driver to see you working in your bikini."

"Is that my new uniform, a bikini?"

"Yes, but only when you go outside. Inside I was thinking about something a little sexier." I said.

"Speaking of bikinis, John was talking to your grandfather and we're taking a three-day weekend over at your condo in a couple of weeks. The kids will really enjoy it."

"I'm glad it's getting some use. It has enough rooms for a couple of families if you want to invite some friends. As an employee, you can use it whenever you want. Just let grandpa know so he can put you on the calendar."

"What other perks do I have? I didn't see any in the employee handbook."

"That's because you haven't written it yet. Beth, you may end up with a couple of assistants but my consulting entity will always be small. I'm a consultant for all the companies I own. Craig is CEO of the trucking company. Roy is the CEO of Superior Trucks. The same will be true for the bank, insurance company, travel agency and truck stop operating company. We're planning to own an oil company as well. I'll sit on the board of directors as a consultant but I won't have my name involved with the ownership of any of these companies. We will have Limited Liability Companies that the trusts will own. I may on paper, be the beneficiary but I won't own any of it. I'm just a guy with an idea who gets a consulting fee from a few different companies."

"Why is that? Is it for taxes?"

"Beth, I don't want to become famous. I want to feel that it's OK for me to go to dinner or walk through an airport and not have to worry about anyone recognizing or bothering me. I want people to like me or hate me for me, not for my companies. I don't want to find myself in a position for anyone to rob or kidnap me or to need to have security with me because of my wealth. I just want to feel like a normal every-day guy with big ideas. If trusts that have me listed as a beneficiary owns companies that make billions of dollars then I'm happy that I'm a part of it."

"I guess that make sense. I've taken care of the flights and hotel for your trip with Craig. I sent all the information to Craig's secretary, Nancy Williams. Since she's in the same building as you, I think it will make it easier if we work together instead of me bothering you all the time. She's going to set up a mailbox for you at the office."

"You're almost as smart as you're pretty. Make sure you go out and find a uniform that we both can live with."

"Thanks, Britt. Take care."



-------

Chapter 6


Craig and I boarded the jet to Oregon. He understood the role of the newly designed trucks and he'd already visited the plant. I didn't like to talk in public so we talked about life in Nashville. He actually lived south of the City in Brentwood where he had a small farm. Near his farm there were many main interstate highways going in all directions, which placed him at a major crossroads in America where he could monitor the system working first hand.

He told me that he had a little girl and they had bought a pony that was fun for her to take care of and ride. His wife was settling in and he was working hard, but he was very happy with his team and the progress they were making. The office space was big enough to keep everything moving forward, but not so large that everything got lost. Nancy, his secretary, was doing great, but he was considering a second person to keep her from burning out.

When we got to the plant, we met with Roy and the first thing he wanted was for us to take a tour. He was proud of his baby and wanted to show her off. While I was walking through the plant, I saw Angus, (April's boyfriend), and walked over to give him a hug and say hello. I told him to keep his dinner schedule open and then went back to the tour. After we had walked the line, we went to Roy's office to talk.

I said, "Roy, I'm impressed by the speed and quality of the manufacturing. I don't know what I'm looking at, but it all looks great to me. We're about a year away from turning on the fire hose. What do you think?"

"I know you wanted us to produce a ton of trucks by then. To achieve that goal, I'm working these guys to death. We have two shifts going and if I can get the suppliers in line, I may try to start a third. The guys are killing my costs in overtime to try to meet the numbers you set up."

"I guess that brings up two questions and something that's been bothering me. The first question is do you have the people around here with the skills to add a third shift?"

"To be honest, we don't. Even with two shifts we have to train these guys because they never took the time in school to learn the stuff they would need to know, to become effective workers."

"My second question is more for Craig. Do we need all the trucks we had defined in our plan?"

Craig asked, "It's your plan. What do you mean?"

"Craig, I've been thinking. The goal was to put the top-heavy old school trucking companies out of business. We'd absorb all of their employees into our leaner and meaner organization. I'm fine with that because the same thing happened to sail makers and buggy whip manufacturers. We call it progress and you either adapt or die. I guess I started thinking about the independent owner operators. What are we going to do with them? They own their own trucks. I don't want to put them out of business. I wonder if we can adjust our plan and find out a way to make an acceptable percentage off them. We can sell them fuel, insurance or some other pieces of the puzzle while still letting them drive their own rig until they're ready to make the change. Then they can work in one of our trucks or see about getting them their own route specific truck. I can make money on the capital I don't spend on the actual rig. I can buy oil fields and refineries. When fuel gets over a dollar a gallon, I'll still have the oil in the ground at pennies a gallon. In ten years when it's a dollar fifty a gallon, I'll still have the same cost basis on the crude and better ways to extract it from the ground."

"So you want to figure out a way to save the independent truckers and in turn reduce the number of trucks we will need to build in the time between now and our go live date. Do I understand your concern?"

"I guess that's what I'm saying. I'm not going to lose money, so they can stay in business. These trucks are our largest out-of-pocket expense. If we can use our most skilled labor and not have to pay overtime, we will get the best product at the best price. I want to look at our options for independent truckers and small trucking operations. If we can make it work, it will take some stress off the manufacturing operation. If we mark up the insurance and fuel to standard rates, we can get pretty close to the margins we're shooting for. As we lower the price to consumers, we will have to either squeeze our margins or cut their profit. I'm not a charity, but I care about the working man at the end of the line."

Craig said, "I like the idea and if it helps out Roy then I like that as well. I think that when we get up and running that it would be a good idea to build a second plant in the south-east to give you better coverage."

I said, "That will be up to Roy. He might find it harder to manage, but it will give you a new pool of workers to draw from."

Roy said, "I've thought about it. Right now, I'm more concerned about opening day and that nothing away from here will be ready in time to help us out with our needs. Craig, when do you think you can have the adjusted numbers ready so I can take some pressure off the suppliers and shift managers?"

"I could give you something off the top of my head, but I would rather take a couple of weeks to analyze the data and think it all the way through. For now, why don't you cut out overtime and work at normal capacity. I can call you in a couple of weeks and we can compare supply to the demand I've calculated."

Roy said, "That sounds great. Maybe my hair will stop turning grey."

"I think it makes you look more mature, Roy," I said.

"It does, but my wife is looking for a younger model between my grey hair and long work hours."

"Invite her to dinner with us and I'll apologize. I promise not to offer myself as a younger model." That got a laugh out of both men and we finished the meeting. Roy was going to call his wife and Craig was going to call Nancy to start collecting the reports and data he'd need to figure out the independent driver dilemma.

I wandered down to where Angus was working. He was working on some calculations.

I said, "Hey, how are things going? I haven't received a wedding invitation yet?"

"You sound like April."

"Sorry. What're you working on?"

"We're just testing to make sure that the materials and designs will stand up to the workload of the trucks."

"How are they looking?"

"They look great, but the level that we use materials can stress them. It is therefore very important that we monitor that use to make certain that we aren't under using or overusing them. The way we designed these they should last considerably longer. The quality assurance testing goes on continually, but I fly out about once a month to check on the results and answer any questions."

"We're going to have dinner tonight. Can you join us?"

"That would be great."

Roy asked what I was in the mood for and I said seafood. He said we could go over to Dan & Louis Oyster Bar.

I met and apologized to his wife Francine. She accepted and then she sat with me as we demolished the menu. I had raw and oysters Rockefeller, clam chowder and scallops. She was with me through the oysters and chowder, but went with the salmon for dinner. She was not fat at all, but enjoyed her meal and we all had a good time. We had some drinks after the meal and then Craig, Angus and I shared a cab back to the hotel.

Angus and I were going to have a drink in the bar and we invited Craig to join us. We ended up with a bottle of port. Angus mentioned April and that opened a preverbial 'can of worms'. Stories and things started to slip out. Craig was laughing when Angus told the story about the girl in New York that was screaming his name in ecstasy. Craig was around ten years older than we were. He told some stories on himself as we emptied the bottle. I guess those Harvard guys can have fun as well.

On the flight home the next day, Craig said, "Britt, when I agreed to accept this job, I felt excited about all the things that Joe told me you were doing. When we first met, you were with Marshal and I thought that he was the man and you were his son or assistant. When we first met, I felt scared that I might be throwing away my future by accepting the job. It sounded great, but I was not sure about you with your age. I want to say that from what I've been doing these last months I feel like I have to get up early and stay late just to keep up with you. When I see potential problems, you call me with an answer before I call you with the problems. I'm so excited about what we're doing and where this is all heading."

"Craig, you're here for two reasons. The first is because you earned it. You worked hard and learned what you needed to learn to lead this company. The second is because I never want my name to come up when anyone mentions this company. I want you to talk about these ideas as if they're yours. You'll do hundreds of interviews. If you want to say I or we, it doesn't matter. Just never please, use my name. We're changing the world and in ten years, we will both be billionaires. You'll write books and they'll hound you for the rest of your life. I'll walk down the street and have to wait in line for a table. That's the price you'll have to pay for your success."

"Billionaire, I like the sound of that. I think we can do it. I keep looking for the flaw and I can't find it."

"Ten years to work our asses off and then the rest to figure out how to live well."

The next few months flew by. I made it home to Orlando to see Mom, Dad and the grandparents. I took my dad out and played golf. I hadn't played in six months and was happy with my 85. I didn't talk to anyone outside of work very much, but tried to call my parents and grandparents at least every couple of weeks. Dad had remarried and he was happy with his new wife. Mom was happy with Bill.

Dad had done well with the bank he was with, and his wife worked as a buyer for Disney. I guess that means I can get in free under the family plan if I only had time. The golf with dad was nice. He apologized again for the choices he made when I was a kid and I told him that I was happy with who I was and those decisions, although it was not fun at the time, but it had helped me to become who I was. I asked if he was doing all right and he said that between him and his wife that they were very comfortable and very happy. I gave him a hug and told him I loved him. I gave him a card with Beth's number so he could always contact me wherever I was.

I stayed down with Doug and caught up on old times. He was great and very happy with work and life. The collection of vintage cars he was collecting and restoring in his spare time was very cool, and it was fun to hop in his '67 Camaro when we went out for a burger.

We were getting closer to starting the company and I wanted to go down to the Port of Miami and see what the operation was like down there. Florida is such a long state and I wanted to talk with them about the destinations of the freight coming in I wanted to use the trains to get a lot of it out of the state. It is cheaper to send empty rail cars than empty tractors and trailers down to Miami.

While I was there, I looked up Juan from the cruise. When I stopped by his office the look on his face told me that my visit greatly surprised him. I told him that I was in town for a couple of days. He said that Maria was away at school at Northwestern studying marketing. I gave him my card and told him to pass it along next time she was home and to give his wife a hug for me. He told me that after Maria had left for college he and his wife went on another cruise. He did what I did and showed up ready to sail. He said that he got the suite for half price just as I did. He'd done his homework and he knew what was available and what the prices were for each. He said that he and his wife felt like they were going to an auction. They knew what they were willing to pay for the suite, the king cabin and the regular room. It was so exciting. His wife said that Maria had told her how much fun it was to lay out nude on the balcony and he wasn't happy when he heard that, but was happy with his wife for the entire cruise. He didn't buy a horse, but he had fond memories, and his wife wore the pin to the race.

We shook hands and I went back to my hotel. It was right on Biscayne Bay. The pool was on the sixth floor, so I took some reports and went down to read by the pool. I had been reading the report for about thirty minutes when I looked up and saw a lady, five chairs down from me sunbathing topless. You have to love Miami. I finished reading the reports, but didn't want them left around in public, so I took them back up to my room and then came back down to swim laps. It felt good so I swam for a half hour. After the swim, I walked over to the Jacuzzi and sat down to relax. The topless lady came over and joined me.

I said hello when she got in.

"I saw you swimming. You must swim a lot."

"My name is Britt, I love to swim, but not every hotel has such a nice pool for doing laps."

"I'm Carmen. I stay here when I'm in town. I like that the pool is up so high. The Marriot next door has it at ground level and there's always so much traffic with people walking by."

"What business are you in?"

"I'm in sales. I sell shipping all over the Caribbean and South America."

"Do you want a job?"

"Doing what?"

"Selling shipping all over the Caribbean and South America."

"Why should I leave the company I'm with now?"

"I don't even know who you work for or what you sell. Tell me about it. I may end up buying from you or selling to you or maybe I'll try to steal you away."

She worked with manufactures to get their products delivered all over the US and overseas. I asked if she worked with the ships, with customs, with trucking or all of it.

She said, "I work for a company that does it all. We don't own any of the boats or trucks, but we do all the scheduling and coordinating of the shipments from pick-up to delivery."

I asked, "Who'd I need to talk to if I could save your company some money on trucking?"

"My father owns the business. I've been in sales since I graduated from the University of Miami, six years ago."

"How much business do you do?"

"We bring in three container ships a week. We're the largest for that region."

"I guess that means that I should take you to dinner to wine and dine you, so I can have a good introduction to daddy."

"After I saw you get out of the pool, I came over to try to get you to take me to dinner. I was hoping my body would be enough, but I'll take what I can get."

"Carmen, I noticed your body when you were lying next to me getting a tan. I noticed it when I got out of the pool and then when you walked over to get in the spa. I'll take you to dinner wherever you want to go and then if you're still interested we can show each other our bodies."

"It is still early can we go to your room first and then we can change for dinner?"

"Sure." I said. We rode up to my room. It wasn't the presidential suite, but it was on the concierge level with a view of the bay and Miami Beach. Carmen had put on her top and a robe. I asked what she wanted to do first.

"I'm not usually this forward, but I'm very attracted to you. Most of the men that stay here are either kids with their parents or older and out of shape. We have a nice permanent room here and I hate to go out alone. I've been lonely and you've stirred something in me."

"You've stirred me too Carmen. Do you want to take a shower first?"

"No, I'm ready."

I walked over and got out a condom. I dropped my shorts and did a little body builder pose. She dropped her robe and slipped off her bikini. She had a smoking hot body and her breasts were nice. They were large and firm with olive colored skin topped with dark nipples. I pulled her in to give her a kiss and then moved her to the bed. I went down on her for a few minutes to get her wet and was just about to move up to fuck her when she started her first orgasm. I kept at it until it had passed and then moved into position over her. We made love or fucked with passion. I held on for fifteen minutes as I felt myself get closer and closer. She came one more time before I did and after that, I collapsed on the bed to catch my breath. I almost jumped off the bed when the phone rang. It was so loud; I thought it was the fire alarm.

I was not going to answer it, but Carmen said to go ahead.

I answered it, "Hello."

"What're you wearing?"

"I'm naked in bed."

"Are you alone?"

"No, there's a beautiful woman lying here beside me."

"It is only five-thirty in the afternoon. You're so full of shit."

I just handed the phone to Carmen and said, "It is my secretary. It's for you."

Carmen said, "Hello?"..."Yes, we're finished, for now."... "Yes he was."..."We're going to dinner."... "We met down at the pool."..."Oh, he was working. He was reading business reports."... "No, I picked him up. I thought he was cute."... "Here he is."

I said, "Hello?"

Beth said, "I'm sorry I called you a liar."

"What're you wearing?" I asked.

"I'm wearing shorts and a t-shirt. I've moved into my awesome new office on the lake. John is so jealous, but he stopped by for a 'nooner' yesterday."

"Tell him that he can't bill me for that time."

"I will. There were some workmen coming by today to finish up, so I thought I should have some clothes on."

I said, "I'll let it slide this time. Is there something important or are you just calling to make sure I wore protection?"

"I forgot to ask her. Did you wear a condom?"

"Yes mom do you need me for something?"

Beth said, "Yes. Are you coming back to Orlando tomorrow or should I mail these things I need signed down to you?"

"It is only four or five hours. You could drive down and spend the night with Carmen and me and then you could drive back in the morning."

"You didn't give me enough notice and I have to fix dinner. So when will you be back?"

I looked to Carmen. "Where's your dad and when are we going to see him? Beth needs to know when I can sign some papers."

"He's in Puerto Rico we can fly down tomorrow if you want or the next day. I'm done with my meetings."

"Beth, overnight the papers to the hotel here for an early morning delivery and then put a return envelope for me to send them back."

"I have to drive them down to get them out tonight. If I'm too late, I'll call a courier service."

"What are they that they're so important?"

"Closing documents for the travel agency you bought and some paperwork for the bank charter you need to review and sign off on. It should only take ten minutes. John has looked everything over and says it looks good."

"Thanks Beth. I'm going to Puerto Rico tomorrow for a couple of days. I'll call you later."

"Your secretary sounds like she's fun."

"She is. Her husband is my attorney and they're both great friends of mine. Oh shit."

I called Beth back. "Beth, can you put an NDA in the packet you're sending me?"

"Look in the back of your briefcase. I placed ten copies in there. Just fill in the names and sign."

"Thanks."

I went over and got one out. I filled in my name and signed it. I had Carmen do the same. She signed it.

"Is your truck top-secret?"

"It is for now. You're working with a competitor of mine. If I tell you how I can save you money you may say yes or no or maybe you'll say no and then tell my competitor about my offer."

"I see. I guess that makes sense."

I took a shower and then followed her to her room, so she could change for dinner. I had the land cruiser, but didn't feel right as a business date car so I walked out and got a cab. We went over to South Beach to Joe's Stone Crab. I love the stone crab and had a dozen oysters and a plate of crab. Carmen had a plate of oysters and some grilled snapper.

We both had on shorts so after dinner, we took off our shoes and walked on the beach. She told me about growing up as a wealthy person in Puerto Rico, but feeling poor and small when she first came to Miami. She loves her family and has two younger sisters. She told me to leave them alone because she found me first.

We went back to the hotel, and ended up flipping a coin, to figure out which room we would stay in. I won. We had a fun night and then both got off in the morning. We were lying in bed when the phone rang again. I answered, and it was the front desk telling me a package had arrived.

I went down and signed for the package before bringing it back to the room. I read over the documents and signed them. I put them in the return envelope and packed up. I dropped my stuff in Carmen's room and then went down to drop off the package for pick-up.

Carmen and I made reservations for the afternoon flight to go meet Daddy.



-------

Chapter 7

When we flew into Puerto Rico and made it through the airport, I found that she had a car at the airport, so she could drive us directly to her home. When we entered her house, I met her mom, Rosa and her sisters, Rene and Rita. I was glad that they all spoke English, because after counting to ten and ordering a beer, my Spanish goes downhill fast. Her father, Hector Argo, came home soon after we arrived and after some brief introductions, we all sat down to dinner. Rosa had made a pork and rice dish that was very good.

After dinner, we went into his den to talk. Carmen told her dad that we had met at the hotel in Miami and that I wanted to talk to him about my work, but, we also had become friends.

I said, "Mr. Argo,"

He quickly cut me off and said, "Please call me Hector."

"Hector, I asked your daughter to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement for your company if that's alright?"

"Yes."

"I work for a trucking company that we're planning to launch in a few months. Our intent is to deliver loads faster and cheaper than what you're currently paying, with the added benefit of delivering the load on time. I'd like to contract with you to move your containers once they enter the United States. I'm also interested in the work that you do and may have some interest in using your company to move shipments after we get them to the ports. Do you only work in the Caribbean and South America or can you ship to Asia and Europe as well?"

"We specialize here, but we can ship worldwide. What does your company do that can make our shipments both faster and cheaper, and have them delivered on time?"

Over the next ten minutes, I provided him with a quick overview of our business model. After listening intently, he immediately saw the benefit of our approach. I also explained that we had invested heavily in the railroad, so we could take any shipments leaving Florida and move them out without having to wait on truckers to come all the way to Miami to pick them up. When he heard this part, he had a big smile on his face.

Hector said, "This is exactly what we need to expand our business. We have had others contact us with many ideas, but we're always waiting on truckers to move our shipments off the dock. We have to pay a premium or an empty return fee to get them to drive down to us. If our boat had a train waiting at the dock for our load and then we could transfer them to trucks, we'd save a lot of money on every load.

I said, "Most of our loads will be domestic, but I can see that many will be international. We can either be partners or we can hire you, but we need someone with expertise and experience in international scheduling. My COO worked at the Port of Seattle, but he didn't have any responsibility after it left the port."

"When you're up and running, let's plan to send you a first shipment and then if that one goes well we can plan to send a couple more. If they go as well as you expect, we can talk about the other things we've discussed."

"That sounds fair to me."

"Here is my card and I'll write the name of the CEO for our trucking company. Just use my name since I'm a consultant for them. He'll put you in touch with the right person."

Hector gave me his card as well. As we shook hands, I thanked him again for meeting with me.

I asked Carmen if she could drive me to the hotel.

"Don't you want to stay with us?"

"I'd hate to impose on your family. Your mother didn't even know that you invited me here for dinner."

Carmen said, "I called and told her. Anyway, there are more than enough rooms for you to stay. I can drive you to the airport tomorrow or you can stay here as my guest and I'll show you around."

I said, "OK, but I need to call Beth and let her know where I am."

"We call the states all the time from here. I'll show you."

I called Beth, told her I'd be back in a couple of days, and gave her the number to Carmen's home.

We went out on the patio and Hector had a box of Arturo Fuente No. 48s. Both Carmen and I had a cigar with Hector and sipped Bacardi with some Coke and ice. It was very relaxing. I slept well through the night alone in the guest room. In the morning, Rene was the only one up when I came out to the kitchen. I asked about going for a run and she gave me directions to Central Park. When I went outside, it was still early. As I ran over to the park I tried to identify some landmarks, so I could find my way back to the house.

The temperature was in the low seventies and was great for running. There were some others in the park, including some riding bikes, and a small group of three people doing Tai Chi. I ran for around forty minutes and came back to the parking lot. As I arrived, I saw a woman yelling at two teenage boys who looked like they were trying to steal her purse. I saw one of the attackers rear back to punch her. As I yelled and I ran towards them, they looked my way and said something in Spanish that I didn't understand. Just as I got to where she was one of the attackers finally pulled the bag loose. As I reached for him and grabbed the bag and his arm, his buddy slashed my arm with a knife. In my rushed attempt to intervene, I hadn't seen a knife. The pain was immediate, so I let go of the attacker, but held on to the bag. When he saw the blood, they both ran off.

As they ran off, I dropped the bag, and because there was a lot of blood, I pulled off my shirt and used it to wrap it around the knife wound in my arm. The woman was talking to me in Spanish, but since at that moment, I didn't want a beer, I really couldn't understand a word of what she was saying or say anything to her in reply. At that point, she ran down the block and I found myself alone, sitting in the parking lot with my arm slashed open and blood soaking my shirt. I guess the reason she left was, so that she could call for help because as she came jogging back I heard sirens in the distance.

The police and an ambulance arrived and I was lucky that one of the police spoke some English. He asked me about what had happened and I told him about the ten seconds of my involvement. The woman was going on and on in Spanish, but I couldn't understand a word except when she said "dos". I think she was talking about the "two" attackers. While that conversation was taking place, the ambulance medic started to pay attention to my arm. He removed the shirt from around my arm and poured some disinfectant on the cut. He then wrapped my arm with some gauze and finally placed some tape over the gauze.

They led me to the ambulance and insisted that I go with them to the hospital. At the hospital, a nurse took my vitals while waiting for the doctor. Since it was a slow morning in the ER, I didn't have to wait long. The nurse didn't speak English, but the doctor did. It turned out that he was actually a Gator. We talked about Gainesville as he cleaned my arm and then taking his time, he sutured my arm making very small stitches. He started deeper in the wound with dissolving thread and then moved to the skin trying to make the scar as invisible as possible once it had a reasonable chance to heal properly. A woman from admissions came back and took my personal information, but everyone looked at me funny when they asked where I was staying and I said I didn't know.

I said, "There was a girl I met in Miami, and her dad's name is Hector Agar." I guess it was the same as saying Mike Smith. They asked about the neighborhood and I said, "It's a mile or two from the park."

She asked, "How were you going to get home?"

"I said that when I started running, I looked around when I made a turn and noticed that one house had a blue door, one had three trash cans under a tree and one had a green bicycle chained to a pole with a flower pot on top of it."

They just laughed at me. She asked if I had ID or if I had any insurance information. I didn't. I was going to have her call Beth but then Beth would be on the next plane to come and get me. I finally said, "Can't you just drop me off at the park and I can walk home? I'll get my wallet and come back to pay my bill."

The woman laughed again, but the doctor said, "Sure we can do that for a Gator that's a local hero this morning."

The ambulance had left and I realized that I didn't have a shirt. To deal with the shirt issue, the doctor got me a top from a set of surgical scrubs. I now realized that I couldn't call a cab or pay anyone to take me because I didn't have a wallet. I walked out to the parking lot and after asking a couple of people, I found someone who spoke English. I asked him for directions to Central Park and he said it was around five miles and he pointed in a specific direction. I asked if he'd be nice enough to give me a ride and even though I looked like crap, he gave me a lift. When we got to the Park parking lot, he felt better and relaxed a bit, so I asked him if he could drive me home. I pointed down a road until we came to the house with the blue door. Then we found the other landmarks until we made it to the home of the Agars'.

When I walked in, Carmen looked at what I was wearing and that I had a bandage on my arm. This totally shocked her. She kept asking me what had happened. Instead of answering her question, I went my room grabbed my wallet, walked out, gave the guy a hundred bucks, and thanked him for the ride. Carmen was outside with me and again asked what had happened to me.

She said, "When I woke up you were gone and no one knew where you were."

"Rene knew where I was."

"She went to class before we got up and daddy, well he leaves before the sun comes up."

"I went running in the park and then tried to stop some kids that were mugging a woman. One of them cut me and then the ambulance took me to the hospital way over by the University, so they could sew me up. When they asked where I was staying, I told them your name, but they laughed at me. I need to go back to the hospital, check in, so I can pay my bill and then check out."

"Why don't you take a shower and I'll drive you back."

I said, "I agree with you, but I can't get it wet, so it may take a while."

She took my hand and we went to my room. She looked in my bag and found a pair of shorts, a golf shirt and a pair of boxers, which she took out for me. She then led me to the bathroom, where she turned on the shower and started to undress me. When she had me naked, she got naked and we got in the shower. I found that I could hold my arm as high as I could while she scrubbed the rest of me clean. When we got out, I thanked her and then we dressed.

As we walked into the ER, I saw the woman in admissions that recognized me who then called back into the ER. Doctor Alvarez came out and held out his hand. The admissions woman was reaching in her purse to pay the Doc $20. The doctor said, "She was concerned that you wouldn't come back to pay your bill, but I told her you would."

I said, "So you bet $20 on me?"

The admissions woman said, "Well, it was a good bet. I lost and had to pay $20 he had to pay your entire bill if he lost."

I said, "I guess today is a good day for trusting in people. The stranger that gave me a ride to Carmen's house got a hundred bucks that he wasn't expecting, Dr. Alvarez made twenty and I took a shower with a naked beautiful naked woman. Go Gators."

Dr. Alvarez said, "Go Gators."

I handed her my license and dug around in my wallet for an insurance card. I gave her my credit card to cover the rest and we were on our way. I now realized that I was starving, so we stopped and had some seafood at a small out-of-the way place near the campus. After lunch, Carmen drove us out to the Bacardi Rum factory, so we could take a tour. It was a big place, so it took us a while to see the entire factory. We went back home and met with her mom and sisters while we waited for Hector to come home for dinner.

After Hector heard the story about my adventurous day we sat down to eat. Rosa had prepared Mojo Isleño. It reminded me of Pescado Estilo Veracruzano, which is a similar Mexican fish dish. I love them both. After dinner, we sat on the patio and Rosa joined us tonight for a drink. She apologized for her country that I had gotten hurt. I told her that it was not her country, but some stupid boys and you can find them everywhere in the world. I told her that her dinner was wonderful and thanked her for her hospitality on such short notice.

Hector said that he'd spoken to Craig today and that he said to expect a call on Monday from the operations manager. I told him that if he didn't hear from anyone, to call me directly. After a cigar and a couple of drinks, Hector and Rosa went to their room and they left Carmen and me on the patio. She came and sat on my lap and we kissed for a bit. She said that she didn't want to go too far because they were in her father's house.

"That's fine. I had fun in the hotel, but I have several other areas of the company that I need to work on, so we may never cross paths again. Tomorrow I need to fly back, but you have my card and Beth always knows where to find me. Thank you for your hospitality and for opening your home to me."

"I'm sorry you got hurt, but thank you for being brave and saving that woman."

"Me too. However, there's a good side to the mishap. I'll have to have Beth take showers with me from now on. That may not end up being so bad unless her husband finds out."

"I'm going to call her and tell her you said that."

"If you do, make sure you ask her what she's wearing."

I went to bed and Carmen drove me to the airport the next day. I got a hug and kiss as we stood by her car and then she was gone. I flew back to Miami and made a call to Beth, but she didn't have any pressing issues. I drove back to Orlando and stopped by Doug's place. I wanted to stay in the boathouse, but didn't want to give John a reason to worry about his wife working in my bedroom. I walked in and caught Jill and Doug by surprise. They both took it well since I had seen them both naked before. After we said hello, I offered to leave or at least go to my room. They both told me, "no." Doug noticed the bandage on my arm and asked me what happened and about my traveling. As we talked, they put some clothes on to feel more comfortable.

Doug started telling me what he'd done with his businesses. It sounded like his greatest excitement dealt with the houses he was buying and renting. He was also excited about the remodeling he was now doing and the money that he was making. I was happy for him and Jill. He asked what I had done since college and I told him about my consulting work for a trucking company that was in the start-up phase. I told him about my trip to Puerto Rico and my arm. We talked some more before I went to bed early after my long day's travel.

The next morning as I went to see Beth's new office, I realized that I didn't even have a key to get in. She walked over around nine when I was over at mom's having a cup of coffee. I went in to the office and saw that the boathouse was awesome. The design worked well and Beth was very happy with her workspace. When she asked about my trip, I told her about my heroic attempt to save a purse and my arm. She was mad at me for getting hurt, but was proud that I stepped in to help the woman. After that conversation, we got a fresh cup of coffee and sat in the less formal living room to go over my schedule for the next few weeks. As I told her about some ideas that I had kicked around, she listened and took some notes. The phone rang and she had to run upstairs to get it. She was gone for a few minutes, but when she returned, I asked her why she didn't have an extension downstairs.

"Britt, there's another line down here if I wanted to make an outgoing call but, you've stressed security and secrecy. I don't want anyone down here to listen in on a call that I planned to make. Besides it gives us two lines if we're both here working."

"Thanks for thinking of those issues. That seems very logical. I must tell you that like the space a lot and that it seems like it's comfortable."

Once we finished with our business talk, she took me upstairs and to show me her office. She then told me that she and John were talking about their plan of buying a boat and keeping it at the office. The kids enjoyed their time at the beach and they wanted to get them skiing and have more enjoyable family time at the lake. I thought it was a great idea.

I ended up using the phone downstairs to make some calls while Beth went upstairs to do her work. I asked dad if he wanted to go to lunch. We went to Rosie O'Grady's restaurant. After lunch, I went over to see John at his office where we discussed the terms of financing and about the changes in building the trucks in the first year. We also talked about the new travel agency. I convinced him to have his firm sign up for their corporate travel.

I was also happy to give him an update on Doug and his recent business activities. John was happy to hear about the progress that Doug was making. When we finished and he had everything he needed from me. We shook hands and I left him to his work. As I was leaving, I popped in to give Yolanda a hug, kiss and squeeze on her ass. I then closed the door and we sat on her couch where I rubbed her nipple through all of her clothes as we reviewed the progress of land transfers for all the truck stops. She told me that all of the sites were finished except for a couple where we were waiting on the owners to come back from trips abroad. We were both having fun just messing around. When we finished our business, we talked about how Monica was doing. Then I got up and got another kiss before I ended the day.

After work, I met up with Reggie for a drink at a pub downtown. It was good to see him and to learn that he was doing well at Marshal's company. After drinks, we had dinner and caught up on each other's lives. Dani was finishing her marketing degree and wants to open a restaurant chain. I'd need to make some plans to stop by Gainesville and check in on her and some other friends.

I spent the next week working in the boathouse office and staying with Doug at our apartment. On Friday night, I went by to see Karen and take her to dinner. She was working at ORMC. (Orlando Regional Medical Center) doing her residency in the ER. Since she'd worked the overnight shift and then went to bed, when I picked her up at six for dinner she was just waking up. She looked at my arm and used some tweezers and some type of funky scissors to take out the stitches. Karen cleaned the area with alcohol and a put on a gauze wrap to make her feel comfortable with her work.

I took her out to a nice restaurant and treated her like a princess. She said that she was doing well, but that she still had almost two more years to complete her residency. Michelle comes down to visit every couple of weeks and they're still doing well as a couple, but because of the distance, their monthly phone bills were very high.

After dinner and a couple of drinks, she asked me to take her to a show. She told me to drive down to Orange Blossom Trail. Since I had lived in the area, I knew that was where the hookers and strip clubs were. She directed me to the Parliament House, a place that I had never been before. This place featured female impersonators that did all kinds of songs and dances that really blew me away. Karen was laughing at me when we ran into some girls that she'd met since she'd been in town. They asked about Michelle when they came over and sat at our table, so I was not worried about Karen sneaking around.

We drank quite a bit. I was surprised to be asked to come up on the stage, so Marilyn Monroe could sing to me. I felt like I was the bachelor at a bachelor party they were holding in a strip club. When I got on the stage, everyone was whooping and hollering. Karen and the two other girls were so excited that they were screaming. She or he unbuttoned my shirt, so I played along. I love so much to see Karen smile and laugh, so as long as she was doing both and as long as my pants stayed on I'd play along.

Marilyn was rubbing her hand over my stomach and chest. After the song, the singer skipped off stage and they sent me back to my seat without a shirt. I figured I'd eventually get it back, so I didn't make a scene. The two girls, Casey and Denise asked about my arm. Karen told them the story I had told her about the fight and the knife cut. Casey was sitting next to me and she touched my arm and then my chest and abs. I didn't think I was sleeping with Karen at the end of the night, so I let Casey go as far as she wanted.

Marilyn came out from back stage and got a round of yells, clapping and whistles. She or he was on the small side, so since she / he only had on my shirt, it was no different from a dress. I was not sure I wanted it back, but all three girls were screaming their approval, so I just smiled and clapped. Marilyn came over and sat on my lap and said, "I like the shirt and the body it came from. Are you with these girls or are in interested in a little fun?"

I told Marilyn, "I'm sorry, but if it isn't one of these girls it will be another girl. I enjoyed the show, but don't swing that way."

"I had to try. You're just yummy and were a great sport. I'll bring your shirt back in a bit." With that, Marilyn hopped off my lap and as she made her way around the bar, she got a lot of attention.

Denise had gotten up and she came around the table, took up the spot that Marilyn had just left and put her arm around my neck and her other hand on my chest. I wanted to make sure, so I slid my hand up her leg and when I felt no balls or cock, I slid my hand back and said, "Just checking."

"Some of them look pretty hot don't they?" Denise said.

"I'm glad I'm with you girls and not too drunk because some of them are good-looking, but some are just scary."

She said, "This is true." She stayed on my lap and told me that she grew up in Sanford, but lived near downtown and worked as a nurse at ORMC. She'd seen Karen at work and then ran into her and Michelle at women bar. They've since become friends and Denise sometimes hangs out with Karen when Michelle is in Gainesville.

I said, "You feel great on my lap and earlier, Casey's hands felt great on me. What's the relationship between you two?"

"We share a rental house down near Lake Eola. We aren't in a steady relationship, but we sometimes get together either alone or with another girl or guy."

I said, "That's very interesting. Who do you rent your house from?"

"From this really nice guy named Doug who also has a girlfriend Jill who's a real cutie. He stops by and sprays for bugs once a month and she works in the office and takes the rent."

"I'm glad you like the house." I looked to Karen and asked, "Why don't you rent a house from Doug? It would give you more room and would be five minutes to work."

Karen replied, "I live alone and I'm not like you. I can't afford a three bedroom place all by myself."

"Did you tell him that you were a good friend of Britt's and wanted a special discount?"

"No, have you ever met the guy?"

"I went to school with him. Let's see, I drove around the country with him after graduation, and I also own the building that he lives in and oh yeah; I own half of the houses he rents out."

Karen said, "Then why don't you call him? I rent month to month, so I can be ready to move next week."

I was ready to go and asked Denise, "Are you inviting us over to your place or do you want to come by mine?"

"Where do you live?" Casey asked.

"I'm over by the lake, just like you." I caught the waiter or waitress' attention and she nodded that she'd get the bill. She came by, dropped off the bill and my shirt. I paid the tab and we left. We had more than enough to drink, so I hailed a cab. I told the girls that I'd make sure they got their cars in the morning.

I had the cab driver take us to Doug's apartment, which is huge and takes up the top floor of a warehouse downtown. When we built out the interior, we both got a bedroom with a massive living room and kitchen area. I knew that it was late, but not crazy late.

Doug was up, but he only had on a pair of shorts while Jill had on some panties and a t-shirt. I introduced everyone and Jill said hi to Denise. Doug also knew the girls from when they rented their place. I asked if he had any open units near the girls because Karen was looking for a place and wanted to live near them.

Doug said, "We're just about finished remodeling the house across the street. If she can wait a week, we can have it ready to move in. It has the original heart pine floors. We have them all sanded and we plan to re-finish them this week. We replaced everything in the kitchen and bathrooms."

I asked, "Karen, what are you paying now?"

"I'm paying $250 a month."

"Doug, what're we asking for that unit?"

"It's a two bedroom, so we're asking $350."

"Karen, if you pay $250 plus the utilities, I'll rent the other room and stay there when I need a place to crash and pay the other $100 a month. Are you alright with that?"

"That would be awesome. You don't have to do that." She said.

"I know, but I want to. I don't like the neighborhood you live in and I don't want to worry about the mother of my children."

"I'm not the mother to your children."

"You could be, if you wanted to become a mother."

"Britt, I don't want any kids anytime soon."

"I can wait."

"I'd like to live in the house, because I love the neighborhood, and I've already seen Casey and Denise's place. I really like the porch out front, so I can relax after work."

"Consider it done. If Jill had some pants on, I'd ask her to write it up. The office is in this same building at the other end, so just stop by sometime this week."

Jill said, "Have you guys been fucking? Britt, did you realize that you have your shirt buttoned wrong."

"The pretty girl at the club brought me up on stage and stripped me. I guess I was a little drunk when I redid the buttons."

Doug said, "You all went to a strip club?"

"No, we went to a gay-bar over on OBT. The pretty girl who took me on stage was born with the same equipment as you and me."

Doug said, "No fucking way. You went to a gay-bar and a guy took you on stage and stripped you?"

"He had bigger tits than Jill."

Jill said, "You went to the Parliament House?"

Doug and I both looked at her and he asked, "Have you been there?"

"I've been there a couple of times. It's a lot of fun."

"What else don't I know about you?" Doug asked.

"You probably don't want to know all my secrets."

"Maybe you're right. I have a couple of my own."

"Doug, I know both yours and Jill's secrets, so you both better be nice to me. I already have a list of the one I want to tell at your wedding. I'm going to act as your best man aren't I? After all Jill was my date when you stole her away," I said.

"I think you'll be away on one of your trips when we're getting married," Jill said.

"When is it?"

"I'd have to look at your calendar first."

Everyone laughed at that, including me."

We joked around and shot some pool. Denise took off my shirt since Doug was without his. Although she started to protest when I took down her shorts, so she'd match Jill, she ended up just shrugging her shoulders. She then did the same thing to Casey and gave her a big kiss.

Karen asked for a blanket and ended up on the couch when we all went to bed. I slept in my room with Denise and Casey. It wasn't a crazy night, but they kissed each other as I took care of Denise first and then Casey. I made Karen an offer to call Michelle, but she said that she had a lot of fun and would be fine on the couch.

In the morning, I drove the girls to pick up their cars at the club. I drove a 1969 Pontiac GTO with Denise and Karen. Karen drove my Land Cruiser. Afterwards we all went back to Doug's apartment and then we all went over to Denise and Casey's before looking at the house across the street. Karen was very excited about having a nice place to live. I got a kiss on the cheek and she whispered, "Thanks, Daddy."



-------

Chapter 8


I was planning on heading back to Nashville, but John had some things he wanted to go over with me, and Marshal wanted to see me about some things, so I spent Monday and Tuesday in meetings.

Wednesday morning, I packed my stuff at Doug's, before heading up the road towards Gainesville.

I showed up at my old apartment where Cathy, Darcy, and Dani were all happy to see me. We had a nice dinner together. That night, I knew that I had to please Darcy so we spent the night taking turns sleeping, and fucking. At one point, we were lying in bed with her head on my chest, and she said, "I'm glad you were driving through this week instead of next. We'd all be gone for Spring Break."

I asked, "What are your plans?"

"I was just going to go home and hang out."

"Why don't you come and hang out with me?"

"I'd love that. What would we do?"

"First we'd drive to Nashville where you could follow me around like a puppy, and tell me you how much you miss me."

"I can do that."

She called her mom the next day, so she could tell her that she was changing her plans. Dani fixed me some chicken and waffles for breakfast, and since Darcy had afternoon classes, she told us to have a fun time in bed while she was in class. Dani, as always, was so much fun, so we really enjoyed our time together.

During the afternoon, Darcy had to study for a test on Friday morning, so I spent the afternoon working out and as I jumped in the pool and swam some laps, the swimming coach just waved at me. Thursday night, I hung out with Cathy and Dani while Darcy studied, and then I slept with Darcy. On Friday, I did my morning workout and when Darcy got back from her test, we packed the Land Cruiser, and hit the road.

We stopped in Atlanta for the night, and stayed at the Hilton downtown. The next morning we went to visit the Coca-Cola Museum. After lunch, we drove the last leg of the Trip to Nashville. When I walked into the apartment, the changes they had made to the top floor surprised me. They had cut my massive apartment into three apartments. Mine was still half of the top floor, but they had divided the other half into two separate apartments. It had turned out nice.

I showed Darcy around my new adopted town, we walked around downtown, and spent some time down by the river. That evening, I took her out to the Bluebird to see some songwriters play their music. She liked the music scene, so I even took her to a country bar where I taught her how to do the two-step. We had a fun evening being together. The sex was fun, and I remembered to give her a spanking for calling a guy a dumb hick when he pulled out in front of me on the way home.

Monday, we had breakfast before heading down to the offices. When we arrived, I introduced her to Craig, and we talked about what areas were doing well, and which ones needed attention. He reported that Joe, the COO, had been in contact with Hector, and we now have a tentative agreement in place to start hauling their freight out of Miami. He asked me if I could go out and work with Roy as he was making changes to the production schedule.

Craig said, "I was surprised how many owner operators were out there. The number of trucks Roy can manufacture using two regular shifts with no overtime should cover our demand as we ramp up the program. I'm sure the used truck market will ultimately dry up. They'll be cheap when the old contracts start changing to our new model. If we need any to bridge the gap, we could always go in and buy the trucks as part of the deal to take on their contracts. I think that when you're in Oregon, you're going to find a glimpse of the future. Dealing with the unions will be a big part of what you will need to focus on."

"Craig, just make sure that every contract we have, has a clause that relieves us of liability in case of weather, natural disasters or strikes. I'm trying to make the work for these guys better and more lucrative. If they want to hold out then the country will come to a stop."

"Have fun out there."

We went back to my office where I explained to Darcy what we were trying to accomplish. As she gained a better understanding, the whole concept completely fascinated her.When I called Roy, he asked if I could come out for a meeting on Thursday afternoon. I told him I'd need to check my schedule and get back to him. So I checked in with Beth. She was happy to hear from me, and was happy to see me when I was in Orlando. After she confirmed my schedule, I called Art the main guy at the travel agency, and I told him that I needed to arrive in Portland on Thursday. After he asked, and I answered a few questions, he mentioned one flight that would connect through Las Vegas.

I said, "Art, can you get Darcy and me on the flight to Vegas tonight, so we can then catch the second leg on Wednesday? That will give us forty-eight hours in Vegas."

He said that he'd book it for Darcy and me, and asked where we wanted to stay. I was thinking that the Tropicana might be tired of me staying there, so I told him to book us a suite at the Frontier hotel.

When we flew out on Monday afternoon, I took some extra cash with me. While we were having a nice dinner, I started thinking about sports in 1981. Spring training was just starting, so baseball immediately came to mind. I remembered that in 1980, the Phillies had won in a big way and they, being the pundits, still favored them to repeat as the World Series champions. I had to think, but then finally remembered the big letdown when they lost in the first round of the playoffs to Montreal, and then Montreal lost to the Dodgers who ended up beating the Yankees. I was happy and interested to see what the odds were this early in the year.

I took Darcy to a show where the costumes and music amazed her. Dinner was nice, and when we finally went upstairs, the huge suite had a balcony overlooking the pool. We made love a few times, and spent a lot of time talking and catching up. She was a senior this year, and was looking forward to her life after college.

The next morning, I was up early, did my normal morning workout, and went to the huge and empty pool, where I could swim a long ways. I had breakfast with Darcy, and asked her if she had anything special that she wanted to do. She said, "Britt, I've been working so hard all year at school. Would you mind if I just sat by the pool all day and relaxed? If you want to see the dam or something we can, but I'd really love to just sit in the sun all day."

"Darcy, if that's what you want, I have no problem with that. Would you be upset if I went to the casino and did some gambling? I can sit for a while if I have a book to read, but I tend to get bored and sweaty just sitting by the pool."

"If you did that, I wouldn't feel bad if I fell asleep. Can we get together around four or so?" she asked.

When I glanced at my watch I said, "That's more than enough time to get my fix. Do you want me to place any bets for you?"

"I have no idea what to bet on. I know you do well on your sports bets, but I don't have any money, so I'll just have to stay poor."

"Darcy, I want to play poker for a while. I'll give your twenty percent of my winnings for giving me the time to play. OK?"

"Britt, you don't have to, but I'm not going to turn down free money."

I thought about staying to play at the Frontier, but I had always wanted to play at Binion's Horseshoe. I took a cab downtown, and found my way into the poker room. The room had low ceilings, and was very smoky. A hostess seated me at a table where they were playing Hold 'em so I was right at home.

The first time through, I played a lot of poker on-line. The computer speeds up play, and you can play at multiple tables at the same time. As I traveled for business or even after dinner at home, I'd play for a couple of hours. I've played thousands of hands. I know the odds and strategies of playing the game.

It was early, but there were still people playing. I was at the high stakes table, with five other players. I looked and saw that their stacks ranged from $500 to $5,000. I didn't want to drop the $10,000 I had brought with me on the table, so I matched the large stack, and placed five grand in front of me. I played it slow for the first few hands while I measured up my opponents. I also looked like I was playing tight.

By the fourth time the dealer chip made it around the table, I got involved in a hand that was down to two people, a guy with a $500 stack of chips and me. He was to my right, and pushed all of his chips in trying to steal my blind. (The money that I put in before the dealer deals the first cards.) I had a pair of tens and called him. He had a queen and a ten. There was only one ten left, and it would help me more than it would help him. He needed a queen, and when the five common cards were on the table, and none of them were a queen.

I raked in his $500, and he left the table. A couple of others joined, and I'd win more than I lost, but I didn't want to play too many more hands. I was getting a reputation for playing tight or conservatively. I finally got the worst hand in poker the seven and two of different suits. I was the last one to bet so after the first person raised the pot to $50 and three of the others called, I raised the pot $1,500 before the flop. Most of the hands were ending up at one or two hundred-dollar pots, so this was big. Each of the others grimaced, but each of them folded. I turned over my cards, and they were all pissed that I had bluffed them.

I used that anger to egg them into playing against my higher bets and better hands. If I bet $500, they'd think seven and two when I had ace and king. I turned my $5,000 stack into $12,000 by lunch. It's rude to take money off the table, but I saw some people turn around when they saw how much I was playing with. I took a break, and went to lunch.

They have a great steak house, and I had a steak sandwich. I was back at the table forty minutes later, and they gave me the last open seat. I placed $5,000 in front of me. Nobody asked about the other $7,000, and I didn't scare people away.

I continued to win and lose about the same number of hands that I played, but the pots were about twice as large on the ones I won, so I was doing well. I had brought my stack up to around $10,000, and there were three others with about the same amount.

I was first to bet and I put up $300. I had an ace and jack of diamonds. I knew this wasn't the best cards to play with, but if I caught a pair, I had a good chance of beating them. I also could hit a straight or a flush depending on the cards. The other two with larger stacks called. The flop came off ace of clubs, king of diamonds and jack of spades.

I had two pairs and three diamonds. I could fill in with the last two cards with diamonds for a flush, a ten queen for a straight, and a jack or ace for a full house. I was guessing that one of the other two had an ace king, and now, I was in second place with a lot of upside. I was playing with five of the seven thousand that I had won earlier, so even if I lost it all, I'd still be up two thousand for the day.

I bid another two thousand to scare off anyone looking for a card to make a hand. The first guy called and the second guy went all in. As I said before, we were all close to $10,000, so I called. The last guy called as well. We turned over our cards, and they both had four cards to a straight. One had the ten, and the other had a pair of aces and a queen. I was in the lead with two pairs. Then next card came off, and was a six of diamonds giving me four diamonds. The last card was a queen giving the first guy a straight, but it was the queen of diamonds giving me a flush to win.

I collected the pot and had $31,500 in front of me, and another $2,000 in profit from the morning. I tipped the dealer $500, and played for another hour making another $2,200. I tipped the dealers another $200, and then left with $35,000 in profits. I was very happy, and felt very lucky. The guy with the straight that lost would remember that hand for a long time.

I went back to the room, and changed into my bathing suit. It was only 2:45, and I was in a great mood. I found Darcy, and she was sitting next to another woman talking like old friends. She saw me and waved.

I walked up, and she said, "Hey lover, you're back early. Did you run out of money?"

"Why do you have some I can borrow?"

"No, I just didn't know how I should act around you. Should I be happy or consoling?"

"I never bet more than I can afford to lose, so you should never walk on eggshells around me."

"So you lost?"

"No, I've your money up in the room."

"Yippee. This is my new friend, Eva. Her husband is in town for a convention."

I said, "Hello Eva, what convention is in town this week?"

"Hi. He's in the furniture business. We're from Hickory North Carolina, and he's out here for a furniture stores and interior designer's convention."

"That sounds like fun. I'd hate to set up for that show. It sounds heavy."

When I went to enter the pool, Darcy joined me.

"How did you do?" she asked.

"I did all right; I think your cut is $7,000."

"Seven thousand dollars? That's a bunch of money. You made $35,000 today? That's just crazy".

"I played well, and got lucky on one hand. What do you want to do tonight?"

"Eva asked if we wanted to have dinner with them followed up with some dancing. Her Husband's show ends today, so he is just finishing up at the booth, and should return here any time."

"If you want to have dinner with them we can."

We met them for dinner at a new restaurant over at the Sands. Dan was a nice guy, looking around his late twenties. I enjoyed the lobster and a salad that I ordered. After dinner, the girls wanted to go dancing. I told them that I first wanted to stop by the sports book, so I could place a bet.

They followed us to the sports book. When we arrived, I went to talk to the manager. No matter how many times I did or do this, I always get confused about the boards around the room, so it always takes me fifteen minutes to figure them out again. The manager asked what I wanted, so I asked him to find out what the current World Series odds were. He went to get a sheet and told me that they currently had the Phillies favored to win at six to one.

I asked about the Dodgers. He told me the odds were twelve to one. I told him that I wanted to bet the Yankees to win their league, the Dodgers to win the National league, with the Dodgers winning the series. He told me that it would be thirty to one to bet all three. Today's winnings added up to thirty-five thousand, I had to give seven of that to Darcy, which left me with twenty-eight thousand.

I bet the same bet three times. They bet the first twenty-five for me. I also bet two one-thousand dollar bets. I looked to Darcy and said, "You should bet five of the seven you won today."

She didn't want to, but she hadn't even seen the money so, she said, "OK."

The guy taking the bets said, "All bets are for the Yankees and Dodgers to win their respective leagues, and the Dodgers to win the series, all or nothing. Four tickets, twenty-five, five and two one-thousand dollar bets. Is that right?"

I said, "Yes."

"That will be thirty-two thousand dollars."

I looked at Darcy and said, "Pay the man."

She hadn't looked in her purse since we left for dinner, so when she saw me motion to her bag, she opened it and saw the stacks of hundred-dollar bills. She pulled out six of the seven five thousand dollar stacks, handed them over, and then broke the seal and counted out twenty more. He handed over the tickets. The stunned look on Dan and Eva's faces at what they just saw was amazing, and to add to that scene, Darcy was shaking.

Darcy said, "Why didn't you tell me you put all that money in my purse?"

"Darcy, I put some money in your purse and a pack of gum too."

"I've never seen that much money before."

"Now you don't have to worry about it anymore. Now, you just have walking around money."

Dan said, "I didn't know you were a high roller."

"I started with five thousand this morning. I'm just having a lucky day. Now I'm just playing with my winnings or profits."

Dan said, "With all of that luck, maybe we should stop by the tables."

I laughed, but didn't say anything one way or the other. As we were walking over to the club, I just happened to look over at the craps table and stopped in my tracks.

Darcy asked, "What's wrong?"

I asked her for my last thousand that she was carrying for me, so she handed it to me. With the money in hand, I walked over and stood at the craps table, but stayed a half a step back. After the roll was over, I dropped the thousand on the table. There were only five at the table. Darcy came up beside me, and she stood in the next spot, while Dan and Eva stood next to Darcy. I heard the dealer call out, "Cashing a thousand."

Darcy was getting out a thousand of her own and Dan had three hundred.

I said, "I saw this fine ass at the table and was hoping to get lucky."

Darcy saw that I was talking about this pretty woman standing next to me and when I touched her ass, half of the table was trying to decide if someone would come to arrest or commit me. I was standing a little behind her, and as she turned to smack my face, she recognized me and yelled, "Britt, you son of a bitch."

I said, "Hello beautiful. Penny Fraise, this is my date and traveling companion Darcy. The other couple is Dan and Eva from Hickory North Carolina. He's in the furniture business."

"What are you doing here?" Penny asked.

"I'm on my way to Oregon, but wanted to do a little gambling."

The shocked mood at the table was gone, and everyone was happy again. She was still hugging me when the dealer said, "Place your bets."

I dropped a fifty-dollar chip on the pass line. Darcy copied my move, and Dan and Eva each followed with a ten-dollar chip. After they rolled a ten, I placed another two hundred and fifty behind it, and got lucky. Everyone was following my lead except Penny. She didn't understand what was happening, so she asked what I was doing when the dealer was pushing so many chips to my friends and me. The dealer explained the odds bet, and she started to play along, as did some of the others at the table.

The luck was still with me, and the table got hot. Darcy got on a roll of throwing ten times. We didn't win on every throw, but we all won. Darcy and I each left with five thousand in profits. Dan and Eva had split their chips, and each won a thousand. Penny had two thousand when we each took the money and ran. We were all in a good mood, and finally made it to the dance club. I bought the first round, and Penny agreed to watch Darcy's purse while we went out on the dance floor.

When we came back, Penny and Dan were talking furniture. I could see by her face that Eva was not having a good time, so I took her out on the floor for a spin. Up to this point, our poison of choice was either liquor or wine at dinner, at the tables, and here at the bar, so Eva was ready to party. She was a little pissed at Dan for talking work, so she let herself go a little. She was dancing very close to me, which let her make a lot of contact with me as we danced. She thanked me for a fun evening so far. At one point, she turned her back to me, and rubbed her ass on my cock while I had my hands on her hips. At the end of the song, she turned and gave me a kiss. She said in my ear. "Darcy told me that you were an excellent lover. I'm a little jealous."

What could I say to that? I just smiled and asked Penny to dance. Dan asked Eva to dance, but they weren't as close as when we danced. Penny just came into my arms. She kissed me and said that she was so happy to see me. We danced, but the music was too loud to have a real conversation. Between the three girls, I danced for twenty of the next twenty-two songs. Dan danced for three or four.

When I came back to the table, I was sweating and thirsty. I said, "I think I'm ready to go back to the suite and have something to drink. Do you all want to join us?"

They all did, so we returned to our suite. It was a nice two bedroom with a balcony overlooking the pool. I handed Penny the room service and drink menus and asked her to, "Order what you want." I needed to take a shower.

After I took a shower, and changed into some casual clothes, consisting of a button down short-sleeved shirt, and some nice shorts, I left the shoes and socks in the closet. I sat on the couch with Penny and Darcy. I told Darcy that Penny had decorated her apartment. This set off a round of talking and storytelling, which ultimately led to bringing Dan and Eva up to speed. I told Penny that I had three apartments in Nashville that needed decorating, so if she wanted to work out-of-town, she was welcome to do the job.

I asked about Dottie. Penny told me she was doing great. With her baby being such a blessing to her, she was very happy. She had a new man, a widower doctor, who her roommate from the hospital had introduced her to, so she'd started to date him. They've been going out for a few months.

I was happy to hear that. She also said that the landscaping part of her business was growing, so she was now getting landscape only jobs for both commercial and residential customers. She and Dottie were also starting to invest in fixer-uppers around campus, and renting them out. They include Shannon's cleaning service as part of the monthly rent.

I'd have loved to spend another night with her, but she considered Dan a possible business contact, and she was still concerned about her age and of Darcy being with me, so she said goodnight, and thanked us for all the fun.

She said, "I was just going to lose a couple hundred dollars, and then you came by and everything changed."

I received a long hug and a nice kiss before she left. I got a long hug and a nice kiss from Eva too. Dan was giving a hug and kiss to Darcy at the same time, but he got a kiss on the cheek, and was waiting for almost thirty seconds while Eva finished her goodbye. I shook hands with Dan while the girls hugged, and said goodbye.

Darcy said, "Well that orgy went downhill quick."

"Is that what you wanted baby? I can go down, and if you need all of your holes filled, see if I can find some guys at the casino."

"You're man enough to fill my holes. Let's go to bed."

After we made love, we both took a shower, followed by her emptying her purse, and counting her money. I also gave her the ticket for her World Series bet.

She said, "What's this even for?"

I said, "With this ticket you're betting that the Yankees and Dodger will play each other in the World Series this year in baseball, and that the Dodgers will win."

"If that happens, how much will I win?"

"Darcy, in your drunken stupor you bet five thousand dollars. You could have bought a car, but you bought this ticket instead. If you win you'll have to come back here, and pick up a check for a hundred and fifty thousand dollars."

"Holy shit. Do you think I'll win?"

"You've a one in thirty chance according to the odds makers. The Dodgers could win, but play a different team. They could both make it to the Series, but the Yankees could win. They could both be at home watching it on TV. I hope they win, I bet five times what you did."

"Britt, that's you. I know you bet a lot. You also win a lot, so I hope you keep the streak alive."

"Me too. I want you to have a degree, a job, and a nice nest egg to get started with."

We stayed up a while and I gave her some more information about the company or companies we were starting, and the progress we were making with each one. I told her some of the stories we had lived through already, what awaited us in Oregon, and why we were visiting there. In the morning, I checked in with Beth to get my messages. It was early in Vegas, but the east coast was up. I called Reggie, told him that I was in Vegas, and asked him if he wanted in on a recently purchased ticket. He asked how much, and I told him a thousand and ten dollars. He didn't even ask what it was for or which team we were betting to win. I told him to give the money to Dani for Darcy, so they could settle-up.

"Don't let Dani lose the ticket," I said. I called April at her dad's firm, and asked her if she wanted in on a ticket I recently purchased in Vegas. She was a little more nosy, so when I told her that the bet was for the Dodgers to beat the Yankees in the series she told me to "Fuck Off. I'm not betting against my team. I'd rather live on the street."

I said, "Says the new college graduate in the penthouse overlooking Central Park."

She said, "I'm sorry, but did I tell you to Fuck Off? You can sell it to Reggie."

I dropped it in the mail to Beth instead and attached a note. "Here is your first quarter bonus. I'm thinking of you and I'm wondering what you're wearing right now, and if you're sunning naked all day at the office. Send pictures. Britt"

After breakfast, we flew up to Oregon.



-------

Chapter 9


We rented a car and drove straight to the factory. I was expecting to talk about some minor issues and show Darcy the factory before we flew home, but soon found out that was not to be. The head of the union was coming in to twist our arms. I got on the phone and immediately called John. He said that he'd book the first flight out in the morning, which should get them there before lunch. I said, "Can you bring my assistant? She tends to keep me calm and in perspective during this type of crap."

"If I can get my mother-in-law to come over, she'll be with me," He said.

"John, please make sure that you both fly first class on my dime. I want you both as fresh as possible for the meeting."

"Yes, Sir," he said.

I went back in, got the production numbers from Roy, and then got the reports for the last few months since they completed the retooling project. I took the forecasted demand that Craig had sent and the feasibility study on opening a second plant in Tennessee, near the headquarters.

I stopped for a quick burger for Darcy and me and went back to the hotel to study the documents. Darcy read a book to keep busy and to keep from making too much noise. She was asleep when I stood up at 1:30 to stretch my back. I washed my face, brushed my teeth before stripping naked and climbing in bed with her to get some rest. When I woke five hours later, she was still asleep. I worked out and then went for a run. She was up when I returned, so we took a shower together. When we finished washing, we were just hugging under the spray. I felt her move funny and looked down to see her crying.

I got out of the shower and held her as I dried her off. She finally stopped crying, so I asked her what was wrong.

Darcy said, "You told me that you'd be married to your job and we couldn't be together. I believed you, but after spending the last couple of days with you, I thought that there might be a chance that we could make this work. Then what happens? One sentence comes out of Roy's mouth, the next thing you know people are flying all over the country and I'm stuck in a corner while you try to save the world. We're right back to where we were before you picked me up, and I see that nothing has changed. You're still at that point in your life where the job is still the most important thing. You live an exciting life, but you don't slow down."

"I'm sorry, baby. If I was going to stop and make time for anyone, it would be you, but I'm neck deep in this and I don't have time to stop now. There are a lot of people depending on me."

"I know, and I'm rooting for you. I'm just feeling sorry for myself."

I gave her a kiss. I asked, "Do you want to come with me today or hang out here?"

"This is better than a soap opera if you don't mind me watching."

"I'm happy that you have some interest in my work and want to sit in on the discussions today."

We stopped for breakfast, because I knew I was going to need plenty of energy this day. When we entered the office, Darcy walked around the plant while I organized my thoughts and notes.

John and Beth came in around one and because they had lunch on the plane, they weren't hungry. I laid out my plan and John said that he liked it, so we went in at 2 o'clock to meet the union reps.

We had Roy, John, Beth, Darcy and me on our side and Frank and Tom from the union on the other side. We all shook hands and I made sure that everyone was comfortable. I also made sure that there was a whiteboard in the room before we started. I said, "Good afternoon. With me today are Roy, President and CEO of Superior Trucks, John, my attorney, Beth, my assistant and Darcy another assistant."

Tom said, "I'm Tom and I represent the union. Frank is our legal counsel."

"It's great to meet you both. We're currently under a contract, so I'm not sure what the agenda or the purpose of this meeting is. I'll turn the floor over to you".

"Under the contract, we have the defined ability to renegotiate the contract if anyone buys the company. Since you recently purchased the company, we'd like to talk about the future direction of the company."

I asked, "Are we just talking, or are we negotiating a new contract? I can't do both. If you're opting out of the old contract then we can talk about a new one, but we won't make an addendum to the existing contract. I read the current contract before we came in. I was not happy with all the points, but I accepted them. If you want to make changes we can start from a clean slate."

"Then I guess we're starting from a clean slate," Tom said.

I handed him a document. "This is a release of the contract document that states that the old contract is void as of today, and that your men will continue to work under the provisions of the old contract for the next thirty days, or until we negotiate and sign a new contract. That will give us time to get everything squared away, and in the meantime, keep your men working and collecting a check."

Frank read over the document, and Tom signed it. I had Roy sign, since he was the CEO. Darcy made copies for everyone.

I asked Darcy to go over to the board and asked Tom, "What changes did you want to make and how important are they?"

"They're all important. We have brought on new employees or members and our older members would like to have the overtime reinstated. We also have had complaints that the workers need more vacation time. Since we're working on a new contract, we also would like a 5% raise across the board."

Darcy had written the requests down on the board and Beth was taking notes on a pad.

I said, "Tom, what're your guys willing to give up? This is like a scale. If we add to one side then we need to add to the other."

"What did you have in mind, Britt?"

"First, you mentioned guaranteed overtime. This is off the table, because we'd be better hiring new workers, so that your workers don't find themselves overwork, so they'd need more vacation time. Recently, we experienced a severe reduction in the requests for new trucks, because we couldn't extend the fine quality provided by the first shift of this plant to the second and possibly the third shifts. We already discussed that the workers weren't skilled or trained well enough to supply the goods. The result of all of this is reduced orders and reduced profits for the company and that all falls back on the lack of quality labor. I'm OK with giving your workers the raise. However, what can we expect your workers to provide us in return? Do you want your guys to pay for more of their own pension or health care; will you guarantee higher quality or improved production numbers?"

"Britt, my guys build those trucks. We'll walk off the job and leave you with a dead factory if you don't want to work with us."

"I'm working with you. I said we'd give more vacation time and higher wages. What've you offered besides not going on strike? If this is just an exercise in extortion, then we're both wasting our time."

"Let's be realistic. You need these men."

"I'm being realistic. I need men. I don't need these men. There are men in Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, Oklahoma and other states that would like to work for the pay that these men are making. It will cost us to move the plant, and we will lose productivity, but other states will offer us tax incentives. In Texas and Tennessee, our workers will save money by not having to pay state income tax, and our shipping cost of the final product will go down because we're more centrally located."

"We will picket wherever you go."

"I understand that. That's why we're sitting at the table. My biggest concern is getting quality trucks at a consistent and acceptable level of productivity. I'm willing to give you everything except overtime if we can find out where those numbers make sense to us both."

"What're you asking for?"

"Right now, on every shift, we spend $160,000, that's 1,000 men at an average pay of $20 an hour. That doesn't include the taxes, insurance or vacation time. They're currently making thirty-two trucks per shift. They also are averaging two out of every hundred that need something redone after quality assurance. One other truck will have a problem after making it through the QA process. That's three percent or one a day that we need to fix."

"Those sound like acceptable numbers to me."

"Tom, they aren't acceptable if the problem is with the assembly. We test every engine and transmission before their arrival at this plant. The problem is that someone screws up the install and we then need to fix the trucks. Someone has to drive these trucks and their lives could be at risk if the truck breaks. Other drivers on the road could be at risk as well. Do you think you should send your family out to take one for the team? I don't want them or anyone else to find themselves in harm's way when a truck breaks down."

"So you want better QA results?"

"Tom, I want thirty-four trucks per shift with a one percent fix rate. I'll give a bonus for every thousand that come off the line without any failure rate. If the rate is at two percent or above, they take a ten percent hit to their paycheck."

"Ten percent, that isn't even funny. They can't be taking a pay cut."

"Then we will lower the base and pay the ten percent when we find that their performance is in the acceptable window. If they drop below the one percent they'll get a second bonus. If they go above two percent they'll receive only the base pay, but if they go over three percent then we have the defined option to fire them. The safety of the drivers is the most important thing. We receive payment based on the high reliability of ours. I'm looking for your workers to do their part to make that a reality. Can they step up or should we be looking at other locations for the plant?"

"Lowering the base is taking a pay cut."

"Fine. We can leave the pay where it is and add a bonus of two and a half percent for finishing thirty-four units per shift and if they get the recall rate to fewer than two percent, we can increase that by another two and a half percent. If they go under one percent they'll get another five percent that adds up to ten percent. Any quarter that they average less than one percent for the quarter they'll also receive an extra vacation day. Does that meet all the requests that were on the board? Up to a ten percent raise and an added four days of vacation each year if they do their part to make safe trucks?"

"I feel like I'm getting screwed, but the numbers are there, so I'll put it to a vote."

"Thanks, Tom. Why don't you have Frank write it up and I'll have John review it or they can work together tomorrow? I hope this all works out. We're still looking at opening a plant out east. We'd like to keep this one open and run at least two if not three shifts, if we can get every worker's quality up to the level we need. This is a plant, not a shift or station. They win as a team and fail as a team. If the guy installing the doors screws up and the windows don't go up and down properly, the tire installers and seat installers will suffer, and the same goes the other way."

"I think we can do it with the incentives you've provided."

After they left, John said, "It sounds like you gave away the farm."

"I just obtained a six percent increase in production for a two and a half percent increase in pay. That equals $4,000 per shift on a $160,000 payroll. If a truck doesn't work right, it's a liability. If they catch it in the factory, we can fix it cheaply, but if we have already delivered the product, and then find out about the problem, it can really cost us big money if we have to pay for a family of four that burned up in a crash. When you break down the numbers of the assembly, we're at $5,000 per truck, and if they were to max out the bonuses, it would cost us an extra $650, not including the extra trucks without the added overhead. With two shifts that's equal to around an extra thousand trucks a year with no extra factory, insurance, or management costs. I think we can make it work. The savings to the trucking company without the middleman and markup is almost a twenty-five percent savings, so we can work with the one percent increase. We can make that up in less than a day or two on the road."

"When you look at the big picture, I can see the benefits are in our favor," Roy said.

Darcy came over and said, "I'm probably out of line, but that was pretty exciting and I'm excited and need a kiss."

I gave her a kiss and a hug and then another kiss. John was going to work with Frank in the morning, so I told Roy to call his wife; we were going out to dinner again. After dinner, we were all tired. John and Beth had left early this morning to make the long trip across the country. They got the room next to ours and even though we didn't request it, we had the door between our rooms.

Beth had taken off in a hurry and she forgot the stuff women use to take off their make-up. She knocked to see if she could borrow some from Darcy. The door just stayed open after that. John came in, asked some questions about the negotiations, and clarified how far we'd bend if they came back with a counter offer. He was leaning against the dresser, while I was sitting on the bed taking off my shoes, when Darcy came out in only her underwear, brushing her teeth. She walked between us on the way to grab a t-shirt out of her bag.

John tracked her as she moved across the room and raised an eyebrow. I said, "Get permission from your wife, and when you send her over to me, I'll talk to Darcy about joining you." Darcy overheard me and winked.

She went back to rinse her mouth and I continued to change out of my clothes and get them put away. I was down to my boxers when Beth came walking in and said, "John said that you want to trade women for the night. Is that true?"

"Beth, you know that I'd never kick you out of my bed. I think that Darcy would rather stay here with the both of us. I can ask her if she'll keep your husband company if that's what's needed to satisfy your nightly hunger for me."

"You're so full of shit. I love you, but that's just crap. Darcy, do you want to sleep with John tonight or do you want me to stay over there?"

Darcy said, "I think he's cute. I know Britt loves your big titties and I love Britt. I guess that means I love your titties if I remember my algebra formulas correctly. Britt doesn't get to spend much time with you, so I'll switch for him and you to have some quality time together."

Darcy then went over and kissed Beth on the lips. She slipped through the door, but again left it open. I was beat and I think Beth was too. After I brushed my teeth and got in bed with her, I held her and kissed her. I thanked her for coming and being there to support me. As we lay together, we weren't out to have wild monkey sex, but we made love. We were slow and steady until we both had an orgasm. Beth went to clean up and came back with a washcloth for me. I held her all night and we slept peacefully. I woke early and when I looked over, Beth was awake and looking at me. I kissed her again and we made gentle love again. I was cuddling with Beth afterward when I heard John rooting on Darcy as she gave him a blowjob to start the day.

Beth and I used the day to catch up on my schedule and the different projects that I had on my plate. We talked about what I needed to do, and what the priorities were. It was good to lay out a plan for the next month.

I stopped by the office around lunchtime and John said the meeting was going well. I asked if he wanted Beth to stay or head home. He said that he'd like her to stay. I asked if he needed me to stick around and he said that he didn't.

I met with Roy and told him that, over the short term, the unions can hurt us. I continued with, "Roy, I want you to cross train as many people for as many jobs as you can. If we lose someone for whatever reason, I want the plant to keep chugging along. When people use their bodies in the same way, every day, they tend to injure themselves more often. Repetitive tasks often end up becoming a crippling factor in the workplace. It's just like tennis elbow. We can have people with windshield wiper thumb. I believe that if we change what they do every day, it will help us and help them."

I thanked him for supporting me during the meeting and told him to call if he needed anything.


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To Be Continued...
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Posted:  2013-03-04
Last Modified: 2013-03-13 / 11:44:34 pm
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