Disclaimers: Mine.

Sex: Of course, and lots of it! I wouldn't recommend reading this one at work, guys. That being so: there will be "gasp" a bit of hetero in here. Sorry guys, just needed for the storyline.

Warning: I do not give permission for anyone to re-post this story anywhere with any changes, such as: change in title, character names, storyline, etc. I will seek legal action.

If you'd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com .

First Time

by

Kim Pritekel

Part 1

Present Day:

Randi cupped her goblet of wine with a slightly nervous hand as the gathered group shared their stories. It would be her turn in two more stories, and she wasn't sure what to do. She glanced to her right where her husband, Shannon sat, his arm running casually along the back of the couch behind her, his fingers grazing her left shoulder. She sipped her white zen, her mind racing as she tried to make a decision.

The problem was, the stories going around amongst the dinner party guests – all friends of Randi and Shannon, as it was their turn to host the gathering – were of their "first time". To Shannon's belief, he had been Randi's first, as they had begun dating during Randi's first year of college, his junior year. That was something he'd always been proud of, and Randi didn't want to disappoint not only him, but also all their friends. Randi was the sweet, wholesome blonde-haired, green-eyed homemaker of the bunch. What would they think if they knew the truth?

"You okay?" Shannon asked softly, noting the wrinkle that had formed between Randi's eyes, a sign she was in some sort of distress.

Startled out of her thoughts, Randi looked at him wide-eyed, an instant smile coming to her lips. "I'm fine. Why do you ask?"

"Because you look like you're about to vomit," Shannon said, heavy dark brows drawn in concern.

"No, I'm good." She gave him another reassuring smile. "I think I'll just get everyone a new round of drinks-" she was about to stand but stopped at her husband's hand on her leg.

"You're up next, sweetheart, and I really want everyone to hear our story."

Randi looked into Shannon's smiling brown eyes, her stomach in knots. "Why don't you tell it, sweetheart," she said softly. "You tell it so much better than I do."

Shannon chuckled and placed a quick kiss on her lips before turning to the expectant faces of their friends. As he began to tell their tale, Randi listened, trying desperately to keep her attention on the story and away from her mind kept threatening to go. She spared a smile for the adoring looks their friends sent her way, Shannon's protective arm around her shoulders.

"I never thought this beautiful woman would ever go out with me," Shannon said, a boyish grin on her face. "But, I was determined," he continued.

"You sure were," Randi added, right on cue.

As Shannon continued, Randi lost her battle to stay in the present and instead traveled to the past.

********************

1992

Randi studied her reflection with critical green eyes, turning this way and that. Her hair was wet and slicked back from her recent shower, the strands slowly turning from dark blonde to the lighter, honey shade as it dried.

"I am so fat," she sighed into the phone, flopping down on the end of her bed, Nirvana playing softly on her radio in the background.

"You are so not fat, Randi, jeez," Anne groaned on the other end of the line. "Are you coming or not?"

"Yeah, I'll be there. I've only got the car until ten, though," Randi reminded, grabbing her hairbrush from her dresser top and began to work on the long tangled strands of her hair.

"Okay. Well, lemme go `cause I have to finish getting ready."

"Yeah, me too," Randi sighed, allowing her towel to drop around her feet. "See you in an hour."

"'K, bye."

"Later."

Randi tossed the cordless phone to her bed and returned her to her standalone mirror. She studied her reflection again – a daily pursuit – her gaze scanning down over a flat belly and over her narrow hips then on to her strong thighs, which were muscular from her years running track. Her gaze trailed its way back up her body, skipping over the blonde hair between her legs and then over her breasts, as those areas were still relatively foreign to her: no one had ever seen them nor touched them, and she was just fine with that.

With a heavy sigh, she tugged her clothing on, making sure she looked good. Again, now dressed, she studied her reflection again. "I'm fat," she sighed, even as she turned her gaze away from her near-perfect body.

Two hours later, Canton Landis wove her way through the party, a beer in her hand and predatory glare in her sky blue eyes. She leaned one booted-foot against the wall, her leather-clad shoulders and upper back following suit. She sipped her beer, scanning the room, watching as a bunch of jocks and cheerleaders frolicked and laughed. Such pathetic novices.

Canton continued to scan the room, her gaze locking on a small group of cheerleaders, all giggles and firm tits and asses. Beer finished, Canton tossed the empty bottle aside, her gaze never wavering. She targeted on the gorgeous blonde that she'd been lusting after since the beginning to the school year – her senior year – three months before. She had no idea what her name was, nor did it matter. The long blonde hair and bright green eyes made her blood rush south.

She watched as Randi O'Shae talked and laughed with her cheerleading sisters, her ass hugged in jeans that should be legally ticketed by a uniformed police officer. Canton looked down at herself, amused at her black cargo pants and black skin tight tank top, as well as her black hair and dangerous makeup.

Randi sipped from her glass of water, her gaze caught from sudden movement out of the corner of her eye. She noticed a girl leaning against the wall, dressed in all black. She recognized the girl from the halls of her high school, but quickly dismissed her, as she had nothing to do with her life. Instead, she turned to Anne.

"I'll be right back. I have to pee."

"'Kay," Anne said absently, caught up in conversation with the guy she was trying to hook up with.

Canton watched as Randi weaved her way out of the room, then pushed off the wall to follow. She responded to the handful of shy smiles and looks she received from some of her earlier conquests, all friends in this popular circle of girls. Even so, she never lost her stride, making her way through the house and up the stairs with the grace and purpose of a shark on the hunt.

The bathroom door was closed, as Canton knew it would be. That was okay; she could wait. She leaned against the wall opposite, glancing to her left and right, noting the sounds of passion coming from some of the closed – and not closed – doors further down the hall. With an amused snicker, Canton turned her attention back to the bathroom door, which opened.

Randi stepped out of the bathroom, wiping her wet hands on the thighs of her jeans as there had been no towels in the bathroom. She started when she saw the same girl leaning against the wall in front of her, a bit startled. She gave the girl a polite smile then began to head back towards the stairs, her features flushing slightly at a particularly loud grunt that came from one of the back bedrooms.

Canton watched this, thoroughly amused. "Pretty hot, isn't it?" she asked, her voice velvety smooth. More than one girl had come just from her voice and words alone.

Randi stopped, surprised to hear someone speak. She turned and gasped, the girl in black standing right behind her. She had to take a step back to avoid being breast to breast with her, though that step pushed her into the wall, which she hit with a slight gasp. The girl in black followed, a hand resting on the wall next to Randi's. Randi looked into the girl's face, for a moment forgetting the incredibly awkward position she was being forced into: her black hair was long and wild, framing angular features and the most amazing blue eyes – wolf eyes - Randi had ever seen.

Canton was close enough to feel the blonde's breath on her face. She looked into green eyes that made her heart melt and panties wet. She leaned in, resting on her elbow. She brought a hand up, running a finger down along the girl's throat, smiling when she saw the swallowing reflex as her nerves built.

"You are the sexiest girl I've ever seen," she murmured, words she'd spoken hundreds of times, though she wasn't sure if she'd ever meant it more.

All Randi could do was stare, her heart pounding so hard she felt faint. She could feel the closeness of this strange and completely inappropriate girl, their joined body heat making her sweat.

"What are you doing?" Randi finally managed to ask.

Canton grinned, running her finger down Randi's throat and between her breasts before her hand fell away. "Just getting started," she quipped, then pushed off the wall and walked away.

********************

Present Day:

Randi stared blankly at the wine glass she was rinsing and had been rinsing for the past full minute. She felt herself pulled back into the present with a touch on her arm. She jerked her head to the right, seeing the concerned eyes of her best friend of more than twenty years, Anne.

"Are you okay?" Anne asked softly, the load of dishes she'd brought still in her hand.

Randi glanced over at her and gave her a quick smile. "Of course I'm fine. Just tired is all."

Anne studied Randi for a long moment, finally nodding with a sigh. "That was a good party. Fun."

Randi nodded, turning her focus back to her task. "Yes it was. Shannon seemed to be really happy with it."

Anne studied Randi for a long moment, a sad sigh escaping her lungs. "Yeah, he certainly seemed to be happy with it."

***

The sound of the TV droned on in the background as Randi stood at the ironing board, a basket filled with Shannon's shirts and pants, all waiting to be ironed. With practiced grace, she smoothed out all the wrinkles, the mess from the party finally cleaned up. She glanced over at the bed at the sound of Shannon's laughter as he lay sprawled out on the California King mattress in his boxers, arms tucked behind his bed.

"Man, I love David Letterman," he muttered absently.

"I'm so glad, sweetie," Randi said softly, returning her attention back to her ironing. Randi's attention was snapped from her task by the sound of heavy steps on the stairs. She set her iron down and left the bedroom after a glance at the bedside clock. Hand on hip, she faced her son. "You're late, Blake."

The boy stopped, his blue eyes glazed and dark hair hanging in his face. "I'm on time."

"It's after one."

He grinned, dimples flashing. "Guess I forgot to reset my phone." With that, he stumbled off to his bedroom, slamming the door.

Randi sighed as she headed back to the bedroom she shared with her husband of eighteen years. "Are you going to talk to him, Shannon?" she asked, picking up the iron.

Shannon didn't bother to look at his wife as he responded. "He's just being a guy, Randi. He's fine."

Randi said not another word, though inside she was fuming. She had had suspicions about her son for months, and yet his father was refusing to listen or see the situation for what it was. "I'm sure you're right," she said softly, returning to her ironing.

Randi stood at the bathroom counter, washing her makeup off after she'd brushed her teeth. Dressed in her nightwear - tank top and panties – she was about to finish her nightly before bed regime when she felt large hands rest on her hips before moving up to her breasts, fingers squeezing hard on her nipples. She hid her painful wince.

"It's been a good night," Shannon whispered into her neck, his body pressed to hers. Randi could feel his excitement pressed into her lower back. "It's also been too long."

Randi stifled her annoyed sigh, instead covered Shannon's hands with her own, smiling at Shannon's reflection that stood behind her own. "Yes it has."

Randi lay on her back as Shannon grunted, his beer belly stomach slapping against her own, his manhood thrusting quickly in and out of her dry, unready sex. Her hands rested on his shoulders, legs bent and spread as she waited for it to be over with. She closed her eyes, tuning out Shannon's ruthless thrusts, her mind flying back to another time.

Blue eyes bored into her own, chiseled features flushed with the height of passion. Blue eyes closed as full lips opened, perfect white teeth bared as pleasure overtook, two sweaty bodies climaxing as one. Randi's fingers flexed and relaxed as she clung to the body atop hers, her sex pulsing in time with her raging heartbeat.

"I love you, Randi."

"I love you, too, Canton."

Randi didn't bother using the loofah as she washed herself, instead using her hands with ample amounts of body wash. As the hot water poured down on her naked skin, she didn't have to listen to know that Shannon was snoring in the other room or that she was feeling empty as ever as she washed away the evidence of his pleasure. She also didn't need to listen to the sound of her own tears.

********************

1992

The halls of Bastian High School were loud and crazy as usual as Randi bumped and shouldered her way through the masses, smiling and acknowledging the greetings that were sent her way as she went. She was on her way to meet Anne so they could go to lunch at the local pizza joint, as she loathed the over-stuffed cafeteria at school.

"You ready?" she asked her friend, who was shoving books unceremoniously into her locker.

"Yup," Anne said, running a brush through her short brown hair then slamming her locker shut. "Let's get outta here."

Papa Q's was busy, as usual as the girls found a table near the bathroom hallway to sit. Randi hated sitting back there, as it usually stunk to high heavens, but at this point, she was just grateful to have found a table at all. She shrugged out of her women's letterman jacket, which she hung on the back of her chair. She hated the style of the jacket and its heavy bulk: loaded down with letters in track, swimming, volleyball and cheerleading, as well as the numerous pins she'd been awarded over her stint in high school.

"Oh my god, I am so flippin' hungry!" Anne declared, her brown gaze scouring over the menu.

"Me, too," Randi sighed, not even bothering to grab her menu, which was standing at attention in a little metal holder. "So, did you guys end up making out?" she asked her friend, resting her chin in the upturned palm of her hand.

Anne gave her friend a devilish grin. "We did more than that."

Randi's eyes grew wide. "Did you…?" Anne's smile said it all. "Wow." Randi and Anne quickly gave their orders to the waitress before Randi said anything else. She felt a wave of nausea pass through her at the insinuated news. She knew Anne wasn't a virgin – far from it – but it still tapped into a deep, dark dread in fear within Randi each time Anne eluded to it. "How did it go?" she asked quietly, pulling herself and her friend a paper-wrapped straw from the table dispenser as their drinks were on their way.

"Good," Anne shrugged. "He wasn't as big as I thought he was gonna be, but-"

"Ew, Anne," Randi cringed, holding up her hand to forestall the in-depth description that she knew would be coming.

Anne threw her head back and laughed. "God, you are such a prude!"

"That may be, but I gotta pee."

Randi slid off the high stool that was needed for the high tables and made her way to the archway that would lead down the long hall that supported women and men's restrooms as well as the restaurant's manager office and a supply room, which she had to pass in order to get to the women's room.

As she neared the supply room, she realized the door was partially ajar and she also realized she heard voices coming from within. She was about to pass and continue on her way but stopped when she heard a soft moan. Intrigued and feeling her gut flip, she slowed and stopped just shy of the beginning of the doorframe to listen.

"God, yes," a woman's voice whimpered softly.

"You like that?" another woman's voice asked. "I love you fucking you like this…"

Randi's eyes grew huge as realization dawned on what was happening in that little room. She wanted to run back to Anne and eat her lunch, forgetting all about it, but she couldn't make her feet obey as she listened further. More soft moans and a wordless whimper as a soft thumping sound ensued in a steady, recognizable rhythm. Even in all of Anne's complete sexual naiveté she knew what that rhythm meant, even as she was utterly baffled. Was there a guy in there that hadn't made a sound yet?

Her curiosity piqued further by this mystery, Randi inched a bit closer to the slightly opened door, straining to see what she could see through the crack. It took a moment to locate the two figures, as they were buried back in the shadows, but once she did, Randi zeroed in on them. She saw a redheaded woman sitting on the edge of a table, her legs spread and skirt ridding up. The red polo shirt was indicative that she was an employee of Papa Q's. Her head was thrown back in pleasure. Between her legs stood another woman, her wild black hair shielding her face, so Randi's gaze ran down her body: hands holding onto the redhead's hips, her jeans pushed down just below her butt. Randi's gaze was riveted to the strange harness she had strapped around her hips, something protruding from it, which she was steadily thrusting inside the redhead.

A surge of warmth plowed through Randi at the realization of what she was seeing, and between two women! She had no idea such a thing existed or was possible – what the brunette was doing to the redhead. Of course she knew what a lesbian was and knew they were out there somewhere, but how on earth could they have sex like a man and woman??

Traumatized, Randi hurried to the women's restroom, closing herself in a stall and taking several deep breaths. Her heart was pounding and her palms were sweaty. "My god," she breathed, hand to her chest. She froze when moments later the heavy door to the room opened and someone stepped in, their tread heavy and booted. She stayed stock still as the stall next to hers was entered and someone did their business.

Deciding against peeing, Randi opened her stall door and hurried to the bank of sinks, turning on the cold water and splashing her face. The stall door opened and to Randi's horror, the brunette from the supply room exited and walked over to her, a messenger bag slung diagonally across her chest. Randi also realized it was the same girl from the party two weeks before, who had pinned her against a wall outside the restroom. Randi looked away, unable to meet the amused blue gaze.

"A little shaken up?"the brunette asked, mirth in her voice.

Randi said nothing, washing her hands instead. She felt dirty from what she'd just witnessed and from the memory of the girl at the party.

"Randi O'Shea."

Randi looked up at her name, meeting the wolf eyes in the mirror.

"At least that's what your letterman jacket says," the brunette smirked at the pale reflection that met hers. "You look like you've seen a ghost, Randi O'Shea." The brunette turned so she was looking at the real girl and not a mirrored image. "I'm Canton."

"I don't really care who you are," Randi said, her embarrassment turning to anger.

Canton smirked again. "You should. You'll see me around." With that, Canton left the bathroom, leaving a tongue-tied Randi behind.

********************

Present Day:

Randi glanced over at her son for the third time as he sat in the passenger seat of her 4Runner. "Do you have anything to say, Blake?" she asked.

The boy let out a heavy sigh and stared out the passenger window. "Not really."

Randi turned her attention back to the road, her unshed anger making her grip the wheel a bit harder. She suddenly slammed on the breaks as the traffic light ahead turned from green to yellow, nearly throwing her son through the windshield.

"Jesus, mom!" he cried, bracing himself with hands on the dashboard. He glared over at her. "What the fuck didja do that for?"

"Blake Canton Lehey!" Randi exclaimed, returning the glare. "You do not use that kind of language towards me."

"Sorry," Blake blew out, returning his gaze to the passing scenery as Randi got the large SUV going again.

"So, when exactly were you going to let me know you weren't going to be graduating?" she asked, trying to get her emotions back under control.

"I told dad a month ago. I figured he would've told you."

Randi was shocked and deeply hurt. "You told him? A month?"

Blake nodded, realizing he'd just screwed up. Again. "Yeah," he muttered.

Randi turned her attention fully to the road, not saying another word.

That night, Randi was strangely quiet as she readied herself for bed. Her movements were quick and short, much like her temper when she allowed it to fully flourish. She shoved her shirt and jeans into the hamper, letting the lid slam shut before moving on to the bathroom to remove her makeup.

Shannon lay in bed, watching his wife's antics, utterly baffled. "Have a good day?" he asked, flipping through the channels on the TV.

"It was fine," Randi quipped, scrubbing at her face a bit harder than was necessary.

"Sure sounds like it."

Randi faltered for a moment in what she was doing, hearing the sarcastic tone in her husband's voice. "Just peachy."

Shannon sighed with a roll of his eyes. "Are you going to tell me what's wrong with you or continue to be passive/aggressive?"

"I don't see a great many reasons to go into it, Shannon," she said, cleaning up her mess in the bathroom before making her way back into the bedroom.

"And why is that?"

Randi stopped, hand on hip as she stared down at him. "Because in truth, I'm not so sure you give a damn. My opinion and place in this household has always been questionable at best, so why start now?"

Shannon stared up at her, more baffled than he'd been before. "Huh?"

Randi felt a surge of anger rush through her and suddenly she knew she need some space. She went over to the hamper and dug out her clothing from that day, shedding her night clothes and tugging them on.

This got Shannon's attention as he sat up in the bed, watching. "What are you doing?"

"When were you going to share the news that Blake wasn't going to be able to graduate?" Randi asked, tugging up the zipper on her jeans.

Shannon felt his stomach drop. He knew this moment would be coming and had dreaded it. "Listen, I didn't want to worry you-"

"By letting me know our son flunked out of high school?!" Randi raged, her temper beginning to flare full force. "Life's hard enough, Shannon. Why make it that much harder for Blake without an education?"

"For all the good your education did you!" Shannon stormed, pushing off the bed.

Randi could only stare at him for a long moment, stung. "I had to leave college because I was a little busy having and raising your son, you bastard," she said, her voice quiet and dangerous. "I was also busy keeping up your house, your life, your friends and helping you begin your career."

Shannon knew she was right, but wasn't ready to give her that satisfaction. "You chose to do all that, Randi. It wasn't asked of you, nor was it expected of you."

Randi's eyes were huge as she stared at the man she thought she once knew and loved. Without a word, she grabbed her shoes and hurried from the room, slamming the door behind her.

Randi stopped the 4Runner at the end of her block, looking both directions. Right would lead her in the direction of Anne's house, left into the unknown. Randi quickly hit the blinker to turn left She felt like going for a drive.

********************

1992:

Canton steered her blue 1966 Plymouth down the side streets, trying to avoid any major roads or highways. The snow was coming down with a vengeance and she didn't trust her grandfather's old car to handle very well and didn't particularly want to skid out and hit someone or something.

Taking the route she was taking, she was hitting streets she didn't ordinarily hit, which was a happy little coincidence as she pulled up alongside the shivering figure dressed in a white parka that walked along the piling sidewalks. Canton reached across the front bench seat and rolled down the passenger-side window.

"Want a ride?"

The figure stopped and looked at her, her face nearly completely buried in the fur-laced hood of the massive coat. "No thank you."

"It's about ten degrees outside, Randi. Not exactly the time to be stubborn."

Randi walked over to the window, leaning down so she could see inside. "I'd rather freeze to death or burn in hell than accept a ride from you, Canton."

Though stung, Canton played it off with a smug smirk. "Your choice." She took her time rolling the window back up, giving Randi O'Shea plenty of time to re-think, as it truly was far too cold for anyone other than polar bears to be out walking. She mentally counted off the seconds, only reaching seven before Randi tapped on the nearly completely rolled up window with a gloved hand. Canton took her time rolling it back down again. "Yes?" she drawled, not a care in the world.

"Fine," Randi finally conceded, her teeth chattering.

"Get in." Internally whooping for joy, Canton rolled up the window fully and unlocked the door, which was immediately opened, followed by a rush of cold, snow-filled air as Randi slid onto the vinyl seat, her entire body shivering. "Jesus, you would've frozen to death out there!' she exclaimed, momentarily truly concerned. She turned the heat up to full blast, getting the car back on the road again.

Randi tried to thaw her fingers out as she removed the snow-encrusted gloves, slowly flexing painful fingers. She pushed her hood off her head, another shiver passing through her body as the heat blasted her frozen face. "Th-th-thhhhank you," she finally managed, her lips numb.

Canton grinned with a nod. "You're welcome. That really was dangerous, you know." She glanced over at her passenger, noting again just how hot Randi really was.

"Yeah, well, what can you d-d-dd-do. I didn't have a whole lotta choice today."

Canton began to turn on random streets, taking it slow as the roads were filled with newly-falling snow and buried ice. "Where's your Honda" she asked, gently applying the breaks as they began to slide.

Randi stared at her. "How did you know I sometimes drive a Honda to school?"

Canton grinned. "Baby, I know everything you do and how you do it."

Randi couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Do you have any idea how totally creepy you are, Canton? You are apparently stalking me. You come on heavy to girls and then have sex with them in supply rooms with appendages that have no place on your body!"

Canton broke into laughter, even as she carefully dodged a stalled truck on the road. "You're a riot, baby. I total riot."

"Don't call me baby, and why the hell did you pick me up anyway? How did you know where I'd be? More stalking?" Randi was angry at herself as her embarrassment and confusion grew with Canton, resulting in the high-pitched shrillness to her voice, which ultimately made her feel even more self-conscious and stupid.

Canton could feel herself beginning to get angry with this one. Usually the girls didn't fight her so bad: hell, most the time they were flattered as hell, as Canton was gorgeous and she knew it. Most girls – even if they weren't naturally into other girls – went along with Canton just to get close to something that looked like she did. It was usually just as much of a thrill for them as the hunt was for her.

"I don't need to stalk a girl, Randi," she growled. "Trust me, I really don't. I took a different route home because of the weather. Lucky me, I stumbled upon you." She was angry at herself for letting this little blonde get the best of her. Canton was too smart for that and she knew it.

Randi was quiet for a moment, Canton's words ringing true. One look at her and it wasn't hard to see the truth about Canton and the girls. Even so, she couldn't bring herself to apologize for her rude behavior: something about Canton put her on edge and brought out fierce emotions.

They drove on for awhile in silence, Randi staring out her passenger window as she finally began to thaw. After awhile, she realized she had no idea where she was. "Uh, aren't you going to ask me where I live?"

"Eventually," Canton said lightly. "Figured we'd take a drive for awhile first."

Randi felt wings of panic flap against her ribcage. "A drive?" she asked, her voice quiet and weak.

"Yeah. You know, you sit in a car and move by the power of the engine in said car?" Canton drawled, a lazy grin sent Randi's way.

"I know what it means," Randi muttered, her hands fidgeting in her lap.

Canton glanced over at her passenger and wondered if maybe she should cut this fish free. She couldn't help but think Randi may be more of a fight than she was worth in the end. But then, one look at that gorgeous face and body – which Canton knew was untouched and unspoiled – and she just couldn't resist the temptation to conquer.

Canton carefully maneuvered the classic car around the stormy streets, wondering if maybe she shouldn't have taken her grandfather's pickup today. She knew a storm was brewing but hadn't been quite prepared for the immense snowfall.

"Do you like snow, Randi?" Canton heard herself ask, surprised to hear her own voice in the quiet of the car.

"Yes," Randi admitted, looking out at the winter wonderland. "Though I didn't think it was supposed to snow this much today."

"I don't think anybody did. I better get you home though, before we get stranded somewhere." She glanced over at Randi with a rakish grin. "Don't think you'd wanna get stranded with me, would you?" In lieu of a verbal answer, Randi glared over at her, making Canton laugh.

The old Plymouth pulled up in front of the quaint, two-story house Randi lived in, Canton inadvertently pulling the old car into a veritable car trap, the snow already so deep and still falling. Not realizing this, Randi gave a quick glance to Canton as she pushed open her car door and beginning to get out.

"Thanks," she muttered and stood, her foot and lower leg disappearing into the deep accumulation. She glanced back at Canton with wide eyes. "Oh no."

Canton looked around her, pushing her own door open to get a better idea of what she was dealing with. She grinned over at Randi as the storm began to really let loose.

Randi leaned back against the closed door of her bedroom, watching as Canton wandered around the small room and looking at all her stuff. Randi's heart was beating a thousands miles per minute. She could not believe she was stuck with Canton Landis in her bedroom until her father got home from work and could dig her out.

"Nice room," Canton complimented, sipping from the hot mug of cocoa Randi's mother had given her. "Your mom's a real sweetie, too."

"Yeah, well nobody crosses the threshold of her house without getting the royal O'Shea treatment," Randi bit out, words laced with sarcasm. "She's home all day, so relishes the thought of actually having to do something when someone new is here."

"My grandma was a housewife for fifty years before she died last spring," Canton commented absently as she studied the newest photo of the track team. Her gaze looked for Randi, immediately finding her smiling face in the front row, sitting on the grass with three other girls.

"Does your mom work?" Randi asked, feeling a bit more comfortable now that they were settling into somewhat normal conversation.

Canton shrugged, turning to face Randi where she'd sat on the bed. "My folks are dead."

"Oh," Randi whispered, her hands cupped around her own mug of cocoa, which rested on one of her thighs. "I'm sorry."

"It happened when I was really young so don't worry your pretty little head about it." Canton plopped down in an armchair that was tucked into the corner of the room, worried that if she sat next to Randi on her bed – which she wanted to do – she'd scare the little blonde half to death. "So, I take it you have no desire to be barefoot, pregnant and waiting at home for the hubby with a cold beer?"

"Hell, no!" Randi protested. "I will never be any man's servant the way my mother is to my father. She says she likes it, but I think it's pathetic."

"What do you wanna do instead?"

Randi studied Canton for a long moment, something bothering her. "Why do you chase girls so aggressively? Why do you chase girls at all?"

Canton quirked a crooked grin. Though she was thrown by the very different change in subject matter, she didn't let Randi see that. "Why should guys have all the fun?" Randi looked away, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. "God, you are so cute and so damn innocent." The blush deepened but Canton decided to let it go. "I like girls, Randi and I like you."

Randi's gaze finally met Canton's again. "But I don't like you back, Canton," she said, though her voice was soft to soften the blow.

Admittedly, Canton felt disappointment and slightly stung. "How do you know?"

Randi rolled her eyes and opened her mouth, about to speak and defend herself. She was baffled when nothing came out, every argument she had in her head falling flat at her feet. "You're chasing the wrong girl, Canton," she finally said weakly.

"Oh, I don't know about that." Canton set her mug aside and stood, walking over to the bed where she sat next to Randi. Randi stiffened slightly, her unease clear and bright on colored cheeks. "You need to relax, baby," she cooed.

Randi agreed, but having Canton so close to her like that wasn't going to do the trick. She was about to push up from the bed when one of Canton's hands landed on her thigh, holding her in place. Chest heaving with her heavy breathing, Randi stared down at that hand, which began to knead the firm muscle beneath the denim.

"Relax," Canton whispered, her heart rate beginning to pick up. Fuck, I want her! She brought up a hand, cupping Randi's cheek. "I'm not going to hurt you."

Randi studied the clear blue eyes, seeing so many unidentified emotions there. She swallowed reflexively, not sure what to do. What she was sure of was her belief that Canton was about to kiss her.

"Girls!" Randi's mom boomed from downstairs. "Dinner!"

********************

Present Day:

The road had been paved, which surprised Randi as she drove along Gulch Way. It hadn't been lit any better in almost twenty years, though; still only a light about every two miles or so. Though the night was black beyond the windows of Randi's SUV, she knew the land was dotted with crops or animals. This was farm and ranch land.

********************

1992

Mountains of unmelted snow still littered parking lots and along driveways, which had been plowed or shoveled. The storm had passed, but had certainly left its mark on the people. Randi, for her part hated it because it made the long walk home that much colder. Anne often gave her a ride to or from, but on the days she couldn't, Randi just had to freeze it out. After all, she sure as hell wasn't going to go to Canton for a ride.

Today was a long day at school, as Anne was out sick with the flu, leaving Randi bored out of her mind at lunch. She had tons of other friends, but no one was as close to her as Anne, and no one truly understood her like Anne. So, with a heavy sigh and heavier heart, Randi made her way towards the cafeteria, feeling –and looking – like she was about to stand in front of the firing squad.

"Why so glum?"

Randi was startled by the sudden voice in her ear, which caused a shiver to race down her spine. She glanced to her right and rolled her eyes. "Should have figured," she muttered, seeing Canton's smug face.

"Hello to you, too."

"Hello."

"How's my favorite snow bunny?" Canton held a hall door open for Randi before following through herself, both now headed down the final corridor that would lead to the noisy lunch area.

"I'm not a snow bunny Canton and I shouldn't be your `favorite' anything." Randi tried to quicken her steps to get away from Canton, or give the taller girl the hint, but no such luck. Canton's naturally longer stride easily ate up the highly-polished linoleum.

"Ah, but you're so much more than just a snow bunny to me, Randi. And your mom makes the best meatloaf this side of the Mississippi."

Randi couldn't help but crack a smile at that, considering her mother's cooking was pretty nauseating, and they both knew it. She stopped and turned to Canton. "What do you want from me, Canton? I know what you're truly after, but I think you know by now you're not going to get that, so what else do you want from me?"

Canton stood with her arms crossed over her chest looking down at Randi. A slow, sexy grin spread across her lips as her gaze took in the blonde from head to toe, her gaze settling on the breasts that were hugged by the tight sweater Randi was wearing. Finally her gaze managed to make its way back up to meet Randi's. "I want to be your friend."

Randi snorted, her own arms crossing over her chest, making sure her breasts were covered. "From what I hear about you Canton, you don't have friends. Only conquests and academia." Randi had done some fishing regarding Canton Landis and had been stunned to hear that she was at the top of their class by a landslide of a GPA.

"You've been asking around about me, huh?" Canton purred, taking a step towards Randi, which made the blonde back up. They continued this dance until Randi's back was pressed against the cold brick wall, her eyes large with surprise.

"I hear things," Randi said weakly.

"Well, I hear things, too," Canton murmured, a hand coming up so questing fingers could toy with the neckline of Randi's sweater. "I hear you don't date, instead keeping these mere boys at bay." She had been studying her fingers, but her gaze suddenly flicked up to meet Randi's, blue eyes intense and predatory. The wolf was back. "Why is that?"

Randi's breaths were becoming more shallow with the closeness of Canton's body to her own. The corridor they were in was empty and she couldn't help but be torn on her thoughts of someone coming along to save her or someone coming along during this most embarrassing of moments.

"I'm focused," she finally said, her words breathy.

"Focused on what?"

Randi could barely stand anymore as Canton's fingers left the neckline of her sweater and trailed down over her right breast, the touch to her nipple making her gasp in shock and sensation. "Please stop," she whispered.

"Are you sure you want me to?" Canton whispered back, leaning in a bit, their bodies nearly touching. Her finger made its journey back up over Randi's other breast before her hand cupped Randi's right breast through the thin material of the sweater. She nearly wept when she felt the hard nipple beneath against her palm. She looked into Randi's face and noted the flushed features. "I'm not so sure you want me to stop, Randi."

Randi almost felt like her body was being electrocuted as waves of pulsing sensation passed through her system, ending between her legs. She closed her eyes for a moment, nearly overwhelmed by it all. She was about to open her mouth to speak when the double doors at the end of the hall were pushed open, a group of students passing through talking amongst themselves. Randi was grateful Canton had the decency to step back a bit from her and drop her hand, but her penetrating gaze never left Randi's face.

"Let me take you to lunch," Canton said quietly. She was amazed at just how shaky her voice was at the request. Her body was nearly vibrating with need for Randi, something she'd never experienced. She knew lust and she knew all too well the glories of being turned on, but this was something she couldn't describe and it scared her.

Randi looked up at Canton, her face still flushed and still able to feel a ghost touch on her breast. Her first instinct was to tell Canton to go to hell and then deliver a hard slap, but instead, she found herself nodding. Neither could say who was more surprised by her acceptance of the invitation.

********************

Present Day:

Randi pulled the 4Runner off to the side of the road and looked out into the dark expanse to her left. The old wrought iron archway was still there, announcing entrance into the Gulch Ranch. Far in the darkness, she could barely make out lights from the house. She wondered who lived there now, as she'd heard Buck Landis – Canton's grandfather – had died years before.

********************

1992:

The snow was just in smashed down patches along the dirt path, mountains of snow lining the way. Randi looked out over the white wonderland which seemed to go on forever. Just ahead she saw a simple two-story ranch house surrounding by various out buildings, which she had no idea what their purpose was. An old beat up Ford sat in front of the house, which Randi figured was where they were headed, but instead Canton steered her Plymouth towards a one-story, long building off to the right. She parked in front and gave Randi a quick smile.

"Home sweet home," Canton announced, turning off the car and climbing out. Randi took several deep breaths before she followed.

Canton held the door open for Randi, allowing her to enter before she stepped in behind her, closing the door and flicking on a light. The four-room space consisted of a bedroom area with bathroom, a living area and finally a kitchenette off to the side. The decoration was homey and rustic, the wall space mostly filled with bookshelves, thousands of titles spined out.

"I take it you like to read?" Randi asked as she wandered from bookcase to bookcase, head slightly tilted as she read some of the titles.

"Love it." Canton shrugged out of her jacket, tossing it to the back of a leather recliner, making the chair rock.

Randi glanced into the bedroom, not daring to take a step inside. The bed looked to be homemade from logs and was massive and beautiful; very masculine. More bookcases filled the wall space. "So, I thought you lived with your grandfather?" she asked, shoving her hands into the pockets of her parka.

"I do. He and I converted this old grain shed into a place for me a couple years back. I wanted my own space."

"So, you essentially have your very own house?"

"Essentially." Canton walked over to the kitchenette, tugging open the fridge and pulling out a can of flavored coffee. "Want some?" she asked, holding up the can for inspection.

Randi wrinkled her nose and shook her head. "Not much into coffee." She wandered over to the kitchenette, keeping a `safe' distance from Canton. She truly had no idea what she was doing there or how Canton had managed to talk her into going out to the ranch. Their lunch together had been three days ago, and Randi hadn't spoken to or seen Canton since until that Friday – two days ago – Canton had found Randi in the hall and had invited her.

"You know your face is amazingly expressive, right?" Canton said, leaning back against the counter with her arms crossed over her chest. She'd been watching the play of thoughts and emotions march across Randi's face, telegraphing everything. "And, you don't have to be afraid."

"I'm not afraid," Randi muttered, staring down at her booted feet.

"Yeah you are." Canton finished prepping the coffee maker then stepped over to Randi. She placed her hands on narrow shoulders before her hands ran gently up a warm neck and buried themselves in soft blonde hair.

Randi was stunned as she felt her head gently lifted and soft lips brush against her own. She started, hands coming up to land on Canton's upper chest. She was about to push Canton away, but for some reason didn't. Instead, her eyes slipped closed as she felt those lips come back for another pass.

"Relax," Canton whispered against Randi's tight lips. "Relax, baby." She slid one of her hands out of Randi's hair around to cup the softness of her cheek. "There you go. Relax."

Randi's heart was pounding a million to one, so much so that she felt light-headed, but couldn't stop what was happening. She'd never kissed anyone before and certainly had never been kissed. Why was she allowing Canton to kiss her now? The thought fell right out of her head as she followed Canton's advice and relaxed. Her hands stayed put, but she allowed herself to feel the warmth of Canton's body beneath the material of her shirt as well as the softness of her lips against her own.

Canton had to stop herself from whimpering as her body began to ignite. She knew she had to be very careful with this one, as Randi was much like a baby deer alone in the woods for the first time; one false move and she'd high tail it for safety. She broke away from the gentle kiss just long enough to bring her hands to the unzipped ends of Randi's parka. She brushed the coat from Randi's shoulders.

"Relax and stay awhile," she said with a grin, tossing the discarded jacket over to the couch.

Admittedly Randi felt exposed without the bulk of her parka, but at the same time, also had to admit that she was glad the bulk of her parka was gone as she felt a strange need to feel Canton's hands on her shoulders and back. Even so, she wasn't about to tell Canton this or invite the touch.

Stepping a bit closer, their bodies just barely brushing, Canton moved back into the kiss. "Have you ever been kissed before, baby?" she asked, running her fingertips down Randi's spine, feeling a satisfying shiver follow in their wake.

Randi decided to be honest and shook her head. "No."

"Been too focused?" Canton teased, receiving a smile in response. "All work and no play…" Canton murmured before returning her mouth to Randi's. This time she deepened the touch a bit, pressing their lips together, her tongue making a feather light pass on Randi's bottom lip.

Randi felt a jolt of electricity pass through her as the kiss progressed. Her hands moved from Canton's upper chest to grip her biceps, fingers flexing and unflexing as her body reacted to the stimuli it was presented with. She felt herself pulled closer into Canton's body, the heat between them immense. Randi's hands moved from Canton's arms up and around her neck, inadvertently pulling their bodies that much closer together, breast against breast.

Canton sighed into the new position as she tilted her head slightly, playing with Randi's lips with her own, deepening the kiss further without the full use of tongue yet. Randi was responding beautifully, seeming to have a natural instinct for the art of kissing. In fact, Canton suspected beneath the cool, naïve veneer lay a passionate woman who was made of fire and pleasure. The mere thought made Canton whimper. Even so, she knew she had to play it safe so slowed the kiss down until it ended naturally.

"Now, was that so bad?" she asked, forehead resting against Randi's.

Randi smiled and shook her head. "No."

A quick kiss to her lips, Canton stepped away and into the kitchenette where the coffee maker was gurgling to a finish. "You sure?" she asked, raising a mug in question.

"I'm sure," Randi said, her body buzzing like she'd been struck by lightning. Her sexual experiences consisted of her hand down her own panties, and that was it. Today she felt like she was being reborn into a new world that scared the hell out of her, but that was deeply tempting and deeply stimulating.

********************

Present Day:

Randi let out a heavy sigh as she rested her head back against her seat, her eyes never leaving the distant lights that were the old ranch house. A glance at the dash clock told her she needed to get home before Shannon got angry. As it was, leaving at all was completely against her character and she'd never done it before, but she'd needed it.

With another sigh, Randi got the 4Runner started and back on the road again. She was tired, both at a physical and soul level. Maybe she could just go to sleep tonight and never wake up again. That would be nice.

Disclaimers: Mine.

Sex: Of course, and lots of it! I wouldn't recommend reading this one at work, guys. That being so: there will be "gasp" a bit of hetero in here. Sorry guys, just needed for the storyline.

Warning: I do not give permission for anyone to re-post this story anywhere with any changes, such as: change in title, character names, storyline, etc. I will seek legal action.

If you'd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com .

First Time

by

Kim Pritekel

Part 2

Present Day:

The wind blew through long black hair as the black Jeep Wrangler drove through the back roads of the country, the smell of animal manure in the air. Mirrored Oakleys reflected a landscape of blue sky with scattered fat, white clouds and seemingly endless flat land. The Jeep took a dangerously fast turn onto the gravel road that led under wrought iron arches and then sped along to the homestead, stopping in front of the two-story ranch house that was in desperate need of a paint job.

Booted feet hit the gravel with a crunch, the crunch continuing as they walked towards the house, the sound of jangling keys mixing in with the symphony of crunching gravel, blowing wind and the distant whinny of horses. Inside, the mirrored sunglasses were removed from blue eyes as a tired breath was released and keys, wallet and sunglasses were placed on a small wooden table set just inside the front door.

Canton made her way down the hall that ran alongside the stairway and led to the kitchen, her boots thudding dully on the wood floors, which were in serious need of refinishing or replacing. All that would come in time as she pulled a cold bottle of water out of the fridge and flung her tired body into one of the wooden kitchen chairs. No sooner had she taken a long swig from her water when her cell phone chirped to life. She grabbed her iPhone from where she'd set it on the round table and brought it to her ear.

“Dr. Landis,” she said, taking another swig of her water, listening as her office manager explained the reason for her call. “I can't, Whitney. I'll be at the ranch that week.” She listened more, finishing her water then tossing the empty bottle into the recycle bin. “Alright, tell her I can be back in New York week after next.” She rolled her eyes as Whitney went on and on, finally getting to the point. “Excellent. Thanks, Whit and I'll see you later. Bye.”

Tossing the phone to the table top again, Canton pushed up from her chair and jogged up the stairs and down the long hall, four bedrooms in all lining the way, along with a bathroom. Her bedroom was the last door on the left, which she stepped into, tugging her shirt over her head as she went. She'd spent the entire morning shopping and organizing her list for the supplies she'd need to renovate not only the house, but also the out buildings that she'd decided to keep. The others had been demolished already, their structures unsafe and useless.

The bedroom that her grandparents had used for forty years now belonged to her, their old furniture still in place, as well as their old wall paper and their old carpet. Nothing had been changed, even by the few tenants that had rented the place over the past ten years. In short: the house needed a serious facelift, and Canton was in a place in her life where it was time.

She stepped into the shower, all her clothes creating a trail through the bedroom. The water pressure sucked, especially compared to her loft in Manhattan . But, for now she'd have to make do. After her shower, Canton padded into the bedroom with a towel around her hair and her body. She walked over to where she'd left her suitcases the night before, heaving them onto the bed. Opening the first, she gasped at what lay atop the neatly folded clothing. She reached and grabbed the framed picture, bringing it up for her inspection.

Behind the glass, Canton and Robin smiled at the camera, Canton sitting behind Robin on the stoop of the stairs that led up to the building their loft was in. Canton held Robin, their heads resting together and looking so happy. Canton used the edge of the towel to clean the glass and then set the framed picture on the bedside table, a sense of sadness flowing through her. She pushed it down as she grabbed herself some clothing from the suitcase then headed back into the bathroom to dress, slamming the door behind her.

********************

Present Day:

Randi looked around the bedroom with a critical eye, hands on hips. Satisfied that everything looked perfect, she moved on to the upstairs bathroom, which Blake used and refused to clean. It was, as she expected, a disaster. With disapproving eyes, she noted the wet towel he'd left lying on the floor, as well as last night's underwear, discarded after his shower that morning. Toothpaste splattered the mirror and sink, the half-squeezed tube lying carelessly on the marble countertop.

With a heavy sigh, Randi readied herself to clean the next room in the house. It was her daily routine to go after the men in her life, cleaning up after them, making sure the house was spotless and perfect. After all, what else was she supposed to fill a ten hour day with? She volunteered at the daycare twice a week, but that was only for four hours at a time, and did nothing to fill her time. Though she knew Shannon and Blake didn't have one lick of appreciation for her work, it had become her mission anyway: to have a perfect house was to have perfect balance.

Even so, when the phone rang, Randi nearly hurdled her bed to grab it. “Hello?” she gasped into the receiver.

Laughter met her on the other end. “Finally bring that UPS man in?”Anne joked.

“Funny,” Randi quipped, sitting on the newly-made bed, then jumping up as she realized she'd ruined her art piece. “No, just-“

“Cleaning, I know. So I wanted to share something interesting with you. A little gossip, if you will.”

“Oh! I always have time for gossip. What's up?” Randi made her way downstairs and flopped into the comfy leather couch in the living room.

“I heard today that Canton Landis is back in town and she's some big doctor in Lost Angeles or Chicago. Maybe it was New York . Anyway, she's back in town. Remember what a freak she was?!”

Randi was quiet for a moment, remembering instead her drive to Gulch Way two weeks before. She hadn't allowed herself anymore thoughts or memories of Canton , instead trying to return her focus to her family and making it work. It did no good to get angry or lament what would never be. It was what it was, and nothing could change that.

Though she tried to fight it, her mind flew away from her.

********************

1992:

Randi was nervous as she made her way down the halls of her high school the following day, which was Monday. She just knew her time spent with Canton the day before would be written all over her face: she hadn't even told Anne about it, none of it. The voices and laughter in the halls around her did nothing more than set her nerves even more on edge. She had been tempted to ask her mother if she could stay home sick that day, just so she wouldn't have to face her peers. Or Canton . No such luck, as she had a test in chemistry that she knew she couldn't miss.

“Hey!”

Randi nearly jumped out of her skin as Anne came up beside her, both now walking the halls together. She smiled over at her friend. “Hey.”

“Jesus, girl. You look like you've seen a ghost.”

You have no idea. “No, you just startled me is all.”

“Whatever,” Anne chirped, going into a description of her weekend with her new boyfriend, slinging details that Randi really didn't want to hear, even if she could slightly understand them better now.

The two friends parted as Anne headed off to her first hour class and Randi headed off to the bathroom. As soon as she pushed the heavy wood door open, she was grabbed from behind and pulled into a bathroom stall, a silencing hand placed over her mouth. Eyes wide, she looked up into Canton 's grinning face, her heart about to beat out of her chest.

“You shit!” Randi exclaimed once the hand had been removed, smacking Canton for scaring her.

Rather than responding verbally, Canton reached down to cup Randi's ass in both hands and pulled their bodies together, her mouth claiming Randi's in a hard, passionate kiss, her tongue pushing inside. Randi gasped in shock into the kiss and touch, but quickly recovered, her fingers grabbing handfuls of Canton 's shirt as she pulled the brunette closer.

Canton broke the kiss, both breathing heavy. “Ditch school with me today,” she murmured against Randi's lips.

“I can't,” Randi murmured, taking another quick kiss. “I've got a test today.”

“What period?” Canton breathed, pulling Randi's body even closer to her own, groaning softly at the feel.

Randi, though scared out of her mind at the giant sexual leap Canton had taken since the day before, couldn't help but respond. She felt Canton 's hips pressing into her and she pressed back. She almost felt as though her body had a mind of its own, her brain left back at the starting line.

“Second,” Randi murmured, her gaze fixated on Canton 's mouth.

“Meet me in the south parking lot after second,” Canton whispered, taking Randi into a quick but hard kiss before stepping away.

“Wait,” Randi panted, “what about miss top of our class?”

Canton grinned at the door where she stood, hand on the handle. “Baby, I've been ditching classes since pre-school. Sometimes in life you gotta prioritize.” With that, she was gone, leaving an amused Randi behind.

********************

Present Day:

Canton stood in the middle of the trashed living room area, hands on her hips as she surveyed the damage. She hadn't been in her old stomping grounds since the day she'd left for college, nearly twenty years before. She was disgusted and disturbed as she carefully made her way through the obstacle course that was torn up furniture and debris.

Stepping through the doorway from the living room into the bedroom, Canton 's eyes immediately found the old bed, which was miraculously almost completely intact. Her gaze was caught by that bed and just what it had signified during her latter teenaged years. A slow smile spread across her face, part rogue part sheepish. Regardless of just how many different girls and women had known that bed, one immediately came to mind.

********************

1992:

“Okay, so you got me here, now what?” Randi challenged, standing in the middle of Canton 's living room, even as the brunette was closing her front door.

“What are you bitching about? I got you out of a day of boring classes.”

Randi snorted and rolled her eyes, even as her gaze looked over the rooms she was just in the day before. “I can't believe how neat and clean you are,” she complimented. “My mom would have a coronary if my room looked like this.”

“Well,” Canton drawled, walking towards the blonde, “your home is a direct reflection on who you are as a person.”

Randi looked at Canton with a raised brow. “Then in your case it should be a disco ball with porno music playing in the background.”

Canton smiled, amused. “You're just jealous,” she murmured, standing within a couple feet of Randi.

“Of what? All the hapless girl before me who wandered into your woman trap?”

Canton placed her hands on Randi's hips, pulling her against her. “You're a funny girl.”

“I do my best.”

“Uh huh,” Randi quipped, doubt in her voice. She pulled away from Canton's grasp, suddenly feeling a sense of power. She could see in Canton's eyes how much she wanted her, and though it did frighten Randi, something instinctively kicked in, allowing her to make her choices, knowing deep down that Canton would never force the issue, but would happily follow.

Canton wanted to growl as she lost physical connection with Randi, instead watching as the blonde wandered around her living room, looking at book titles and glancing at Canton over her shoulder from time to time, giving her a look that would make anyone combust.

“So tell me,” Randi asked, making her way towards Canton's bedroom, an area which she had not yet dare venture into.

“Yes?” Canton asked, following at a distance.

“Have you ever had your heart broke?” Randi asked, looking around the small room, her fingers trailing along the rough-hewn footboard of the bed, her gaze turning to Canton who slowly entered the room.

“Nope,” Canton said with a shake of her head. “I've never given anything to a woman but,” a lecherous grin spread across her lips, “pleasure.”

Randi rolled her eyes. “You are absolutely shameless, Canton.”

“Yeah, pretty much.” She was also being pushed to her limits.

Randi made her way to one of the thick four posters, her hands wrapping around it as she leaned on the sturdy wood. “What if someone turned you down?”

Canton moved into the room, slow like a lion stalking its prey. “It would never happen.”

“No?”

Canton shook her head, wolf eyes never leaving Randi.

Randi felt her heart pounding in her chest. She knew she was playing with fire, but wasn't entirely sure why and wasn't entirely sure what would happen because of it. “What if I turned you down?” she asked, her voice low and sultry of its own accord.

Canton grinned, shaking her head. “I don't think so. I can see it in your eyes, Randi. Those gorgeous green eyes…” she reached her, placing her hands on narrow hips. “You want me and I know you want me.”

Randi looked up into Canton's eyes, a shiver running down her spine at the need she saw there. “I'm scared,” she whispered, surprising herself that the words had escaped her brain.

“Don't be,” Canton whispered back, gently pushing Randi back onto the mattress and following suit. “I won't hurt you.”

“What about the kids at school?” Randi whispered, sighing as she felt Canton's weight settle on top of her, their bodies pressed fully together.

“What about them?” Canton asked, her tongue running a fiery trail up Randi's neck.

Randi's eyes slid closed, her head falling to the side. “You won't say anything, will you? They might think I'm into girls or something…”

“Aren't you?” Canton murmured against Randi's neck, one of her thighs pushing Randi's open and slipping between. They both groaned at the feeling. When Randi didn't respond, Canton continued. “They can think what they want, Randi. We graduate in five months. Who cares?” She moved her mouth to Randi's delivering a deeply passionate kiss. “All that matters is the here and now.”

Randi had no answer for that as her body was flooded with brand new sensations. Her hands trailed down Canton's back as Canton's hips began to move, her thigh pressing into the virgin territory that was Randi's sex. On instinct, her own hips moved with and against Canton's, their breathing increasing as the bed squeaked softly with their movement.

All thoughts left Randi's brain as sensation took over. She met Canton's kisses, her breathing and whimpers growing in pitch and duration. She'd had an orgasm before from her own hand, but had the distinct feeling that those would be nothing in comparison with what was about to come.

Canton held on for dear life as Randi came, holding their bodies together, their hearts beating in time. “I gotcha,” she whispered into her hair and neck, leaving a trail of kisses. “Oh baby, I gotcha,” she gasped, her own orgasm ripping through her. It wasn't huge, but it was intense in its own way, her hips jerking against Randi's.

They both lay there in silence for a long moment, both lost in her own thoughts and feelings. Finally, Canton raised herself to her hands, looking down at the flushed features of the beautiful girl lying beneath her.

“Are you okay?” she asked softly, moving to lie beside Randi, a hand coming up to brush against her cheek.

Randi nodded, eyes closed as she leaned into the soft touch on her face. “Yeah,” she finally whispered. She was gathered into a warm embrace, which she quickly surrendered to, her head resting on Canton's shoulder. She knew there would be a backlash of emotions later, but pushed it aside. Right now she just wanted to enjoy what she'd done and not think it to death.

“Canton?” she asked at length.

“Yeah?” Canton asked, her fingers running through Randi's hair.

“Why do you do this? Bring so many girls to your bed. Why don't you just date one.”

Canton was quiet for a long moment, Randi's question spinning through her head. Why indeed? “I don't know,” she admitted after awhile. “I guess I just need that immediate gratification, I guess.”

Randi lifting her head, brows drawn. She knew somewhere inside that answer was bullshit. “No you don't.”

Canton met her gaze. “You don't know me very well, Randi. I hardly think it's up to you to judge me or why I do the things I do.”

“I'm not judging you.” Randi could sense Canton's walls flying up, trying to shut her out and she wanted to stop that, or at least get in under the wire. “What are you afraid of?”

Canton felt her anger rising to the surface. She had no desire to talk about this, and certainly not with someone she'd just fucked, dry as it was. “We need to get back to school,” she muttered, moving out from underneath Randi and getting to her feet.

“What?” Randi asked, shocked and confused as she sat on the bed, feeling very cold suddenly.

“I'll drive you home or back to school – your choice,” Canton muttered, storming from the room.

********************

Present Day:

Canton sat on the side of the bed, the mattress sagging under her weight. She looked out over the expanse of it, a sigh escaping her lips. “What am I doing back here?” she asked, getting no response.

********************

Present Day:

Randi waited in the car, her fingers tapping on the steering wheel as she waited for her son. It was a Saturday, and she'd insisted they spend the day finding him a job. If he wasn't going to take school seriously, fine. He would get a job and work his way into his own life, no longer able to lean on his parents.

Randi adjusted the knob on the radio, finding a station and song that she liked. She was parked in front of a strip mall, Blake instructed to go into every single store to get an application and perhaps even an interview, so she had time to burn. She got settled in the driver's seat, the air conditioning blowing softly over her as her skin was near blistering from the sun pouring in through the windshield.

She closed her eyes as she let the music seep in and her thoughts fly. She thought back to her conversation with Anne the other day and the tid bit that Canton Landis was back in town. Randi hadn't spoken to Canton since… that night. How had they gotten to that point? Hell, had they gotten to any point? As she glanced at her reflection in the rearview mirror, she wondered how she'd gotten to this point. Her memories may have shown her a beautiful young girl who was filled with life and vigor, eyes bright and filled with wonder and life. The woman who stared back at her now looked old and tired, even though she was just thirty-six.

“Just thirty-six,” Randi whispered, thinking back to yesterday when that seemed ancient to her.

She couldn't help but wonder what Canton would look like now; was she still as gorgeous as ever? What did she do with her life? Was she married? Have a partner? Children? Was she still a skirt chaser who refused to grow up, like Peter Pan?

********************

1992:

Canton's grandparents' land was amazingly expansive, seeming to stretch out from horizon to horizon. It was easy to get lost and certainly easy to lose one's self. Randi lay on her back in a field of wild grass, Canton lying next to her, head held up on an upturned palm. They were kissing with interspersed conversation. Spring was finally arriving, the days warming up and all signs of snow gone. The fields were green and trees growing lush and inviting.

“I bet you end up some crotchety old librarian,” Randi grinned.

Canton shook her head, running a finger along the rounded underside of Randi's breast, still encased in bra and shirt. “I'll never be old,” she muttered, glancing down into Randi's face as her finger slid up between her breasts then back down.

“Oh yes you will!” Randi laughed. “Someday you'll be like thirty and gray.”

Canton smirked. “I'll still be hot though.”

“ If you do say so yourself...”

Canton gave her a devilish grin then leaned down to initiate a kiss that started out with just lips and ended with lips, tongue and soft moans. Canton decided to try her boundaries, desperate to see Randi's magnificent body. She trailed her hand down the center line of Randi's torso as the kiss continued, her fingers toying with the hem of Randi's shirt.

Randi buried her fingers into the soft hair at the back of Canton's head, gasping slightly when she felt the teasing fingertips touch the bare skin of her lower abdomen. She could tell as Canton's finger gently caressed the skin that Canton was looking for permission to precede. It only took Randi a moment of uncertainty before she reached down – keeping the kiss going – and took Canton's hand in her own, nudging it underneath her shirt and squeezing the hand before she returned it back to thick hair.

Canton was overjoyed as she slid her hand up under the shirt, feeling the smooth heat of Randi's flat belly, the twitching muscles under the skin hard. She so wanted to see her body. It only took a moment before her fingers reached the rounded edge of Randi's bra.

“Mmm, baby,” Canton breathed against Randi's mouth, her kiss moving to a warm neck as her hand fully enveloped the bra-clad breast.

Randi's head fell back, her hips beginning to move a bit as her body heated. She opened her eyes and saw Canton's hand beneath her shirt, which turned her on that much more. Suddenly she decided she wanted more. Sitting up, she nearly knocked Canton backwards. She didn't care as she grabbed the hem of her shirt and whipped it over her head, tossing it aside as she lay back down.

Canton was stunned into non-action for a moment before she moved back to Randi, wanting to take absolute advantage of what was being offered. “Jesus, you're beautiful,” she moaned, her sex pulsing with need. She moved to lay atop Randi, gently nudging her legs apart so she could lie between them. She scooted her way down a bit, her mouth licking a sizzling path from Randi's throat to her collarbones and upper chest, her hand massaging the skin of one of her sides.

Randi was lost in bliss, her hands buried in Canton's hair, encouraging her to do… she had no idea, just that she wanted her to do. All thought left her mind as she felt warm wetness surround her right nipple through her bra. Looking down, she saw Canton's hair covering her chest as she tongued the rigid nub.

“Oh god, Canton,” she whimpered, her hips trying desperately to find Canton's body to press against.

Canton hummed in her task, deciding to once against challenge her boundaries as she slowly began to bring her fingers to the front clasp of the bra, looking up into Randi's eyes for permission. Granted with a nod, Canton quickly unclasped the garment and pushed the cups aside to reveal the most beautiful breasts she'd ever seen. “You make me want to cry,” she whispered, never seeing such beauty as she was seeing now, Randi lying there half-naked and wanting. Canton raised herself to her hands and looked down into Randi's face. “You are truly the most amazingly stunning thing I've ever seen, Randi.”

Randi looked up into Canton's face and knew she was speaking the truth as she saw it. She reached up and caressed the side of Canton's face, Canton's eyes closing as she leaned into the touch. “I want you to do what you want, Canton,” she said softly, surprising herself at her fierce certainty and determination, absent a moment before.

Canton looked at her, trying to read between the lines in Randi's eyes. She lowered herself so she was lying flush with the blonde, their kiss deep and filled with promise and meaning. She'd been with a countless number of girls, and at first Randi had been no different than the rest. But now, something inside her was shifting and she no longer saw Randi as simply another beautiful girl. No, it was something more, though she dare not put a name to it: it frightened her too badly.

The kiss came to a natural end as Canton moved on, resuming her place at Randi's breasts. She palmed one, the rigid nipple tickling her palm as she ran it over the nipple in a slow circle. She could hear Randi's breathing increase as well as her chest heaved with each inhale and exhale. She lowered her head to the other nipple, swiping her tongue quickly over it and loving the sound that produced from Randi.

Randi's eyes were closed as she lost herself in what she was feeling. She started this process with such a deep dislike and mistrust of Canton, yet here she was, weeks later lying half-naked on Canton's property, allowing the brunette to have her way with her. She felt no guilt, no remorse and no fear. It seemed as if this moment was planned in her life and nothing could have stopped it. It felt so right.

After long, leisurely licks and suckles on Randi's breasts, Canton pushed to her knees, ready to take this to the next level. She tugged her own shirt over her head, her gaze locked on Randi's, then followed the shirt with her own bra. Randi sat up, shrugging fully out of her bra before lying down again, reaching for Canton, who quickly followed. Randi had never known anything could feel so magical as their breasts felt pressed together. The kiss they shared was deeper than any other they'd had thus far. This one was filled with need and want on a new level of understanding.

Canton pushed to her knees again, this time scooting back so she could reach Randi's tennis shoes, which she untied and pulled off, followed by her socks. When her fingers reached for Randi's pants' button and zipper, she returned her gaze to Randi's to make absolute sure this was what she wanted; after this, there was essentially no going back. Randi gave her a silent nod, which urged Canton to finish undressing Randi and then herself.

Randi looked up at Canton, who stood naked above her. She wasn't sure if she'd ever seen anything so amazing before. Even the most perfect, beautiful sculpture or artwork in a museum couldn't compare to the glory of Canton's naked body. What she didn't know was Canton was thinking the exact same thing.

Canton lay back down and began to explore the perfection that was Randi's body with her mouth and fingers, able to smell Randi's need as she moved further and further down. She ran a hand up and down the strong left thigh before easing her hand underneath it and raising it, followed by the right.

Randi lifted her head to see what Canton was doing, still unsure even as Canton settled herself between her spread thighs. It wasn't until she felt a wet tongue slice through her sex that she got the idea, her head falling back into the grass with a soft moan. Her hands found their way into thick dark hair, her world narrowing down to that tongue in that moment.

Canton wanted to taste every bit of Randi's need, gathering her wetness on her tongue as she went. “You taste so good, baby,” she murmured, running her tongue up Randi's seam until she found her distended clit. She hummed happily as she suckled, Randi's hips popping up off the ground, her sex ground into Canton's face.

“Canton,” she gasped, hips moving up and down with Canton's tongue. “Oh god, Canton…”

“I'm here, baby,” Canton murmured against her clit, smiling when Randi whimpered at the vibration of the words against her most sensitive area. She wanted more than anything to hear Randi's cries of release and passion, so she began to work overtime, running her tongue back down the seam until she entered Randi with it, creating a steady rhythm.

Randi gasped then released a keening moan as her pleasure began to build, her hips working so hard now they were nearly bucking Canton away from her. Canton wrapped her arms around Randi's thighs, holding her in place as she began to feast in earnest. Randi's breathing increased until she was panting and whimpering, finally her world splintering into color and pleasure. Her cries echoed out over the day, causing a distant dog to bark.

Canton grinned as she kissed her way back up Randi's body, lapping at her nipples before finally making it to a waiting mouth. The kiss they shared was passionate and near frantic as Randi's emotions came to the surface through her actions. Finally they both came up for air, Canton looking down at a glowing Randi.

“How are you?” she asked, a pleased grin on her face.

“Mmm,” Randi moaned, closing her eyes as she stretched her body languidly, her breasts rising up to press against Canton's in the process. “Amazing. Beautiful. Awesome. Incredible.” She opened her eyes and smiled up at a beaming Canton. “You can do that any time you want to.”

Canton chuckled. “Oh yeah?”

“Oh yeah,” Randi purred, grabbing Canton and pulling her down for a deep kiss.

********************

Present Day:

Blake sat at the table in the coffee shop, half-heartedly filling out the application. The last thing he wanted to do was to work in some faggoty coffee shop. He glanced up as the over-the-door bell announced someone entering, half expecting to see his mother coming in to spy on him. Instead, one of the hottest chicks he'd ever seen entered, even if she was like thirty. Even old, she was hot !

Canton walked up to the counter and ordered herself a coffee. As she waited, she noticed the handsome young man who sat at a table, a job application and pen in his hand. On a whim, she decided to talk to him.

“You looking for a job?” she asked, standing next to his table.

Blake looked up, shocked to see the hot chick standing over him. Even up close she was hot. “Yeah,” he muttered in response to her question.

“What's your availability?” she asked.

“You the manager here?” he asked, hopeful.

Canton grinned, shaking her head. “No, but I'm renovating an old ranch house and out buildings and I'm looking to hire labor for the summer.”

Randi was jolted awake with a start, her chest heaving and heart pounding. She was embarrassed to realize that she was completely turned on from her memory, which had turned into a very realistic dream. Looking around to see what had awakened her, she was even more embarrassed to see a grinning Blake standing at the driver's side door, motioning that she should roll her window down.

“Hey,” she said, sitting up straighter in her seat, running a hand through her hair.

“Hey. I got a job!”

“Yeah?” she asked, getting excited. “Get in here and tell me about it.” She was about to start the engine on the 4Runner when Blake stopped her with a touch of his hand on her shoulder.

“Nah, she wants to talk to you first.”

“The manager at the coffee shop?” Randi asked, gathering her purse and keys before she stepped out of the car.

“Nope. Better than a coffee shop,” Blake said cryptically, looking quite pleased with himself. “Come on.”

Randi followed her son inside, curious as she hadn't seen his eyes sparkle like this in a long time. The coffee shop was fairly quiet, only a couple other occupants scattered either reading or typing on a lap top as they drank their coffee. Blake wasn't interested in them, though as he headed to a woman sitting by herself at a corner table. Randi walked over to her, her steps slowing then faltering altogether as the woman looked up from her phone, which she'd been texting on.

Canton's eyes widened when she saw the woman Blake was bringing towards her. Her mouth fell open slightly, her heart beginning to pound painfully hard in her chest. “Randi,” she said softly, slowly rising from her chair.

Randi nearly choked when she heard Canton's voice: that same voice. “Hello, Canton,” she said, her own voice nearly a whisper.

Blake stared back and forth between the two women, utterly baffled. It was obvious they knew each other, which was a huge deal considering how small the town was, but it was his mother's reaction to Canton Landis that really caught his attention. He almost felt like he was interrupting a hugely private moment as the two stepped towards each other, stopping a foot apart as they stared at each other. Then, as though there was some unspoken choreography, the two rushed into a tight embrace that lasted several moments.

Canton couldn't believe it as she hugged Randi tight, feeling so many emotions and memories rushing back at her in that moment. When the hug broke, she looked down into the face that she could never forget, no matter how hard she tried.

Likewise, Randi was beside herself. With all the memories she'd been collecting over the past week, she almost felt shy and embarrassed to be standing in front of Canton, afraid that she'd see right through her. Instead, she stepped back from the hug and smiled politely. “I'd heard you'd come back into town.”

“Same old, I guess,” Canton said with a smile. “Word travels fast here.”

“Always,” Randi said with a small nod, the two sharing a knowing look for a moment before Randi looked away, turning her focus to her son. “So, Blake tells me you've got some work that needs to be done.

“Yes,” Canton said, her voice chipper and light, grateful to get out of the past and into the present. She looked at Randi's son and suddenly she felt stupid: how could she have not seen it? He looked exactly like his mother, save for the dark hair and blue eyes. The three moved to the table and sat down. “I'm finally renovating the old house and buildings and I need help. I've already hired a couple local boys for the job, but I still need more, and Blake here said he'd like to do it.”

“Better than working here,” Blake muttered here, nodding towards the obviously-gay boy who stood behind the counter.

“Be nice, Blake. You should be grateful for any job you get,” Randi admonished quietly. Blake said nothing, just looked away. Randi turned her attention to Canton, still trying to wrap her mind around the events of the last few minutes. “What would you have him do? How long, that sort of thing.”

“Well, I plan to gut my old place and start over. Part of the main house will need to be gutted and rebuilt as well. I've got an architect coming out to the house tomorrow afternoon to finalize plans. I'll pay him ten bucks an hour.”

“Sweet!” Blake exclaimed.

“It's hard work, Blake. You'll work for every penny.”

“I'm totally game.”

Canton glanced at Randi, fighting the urge to run, vomit and throw herself at Randi's feet, begging for forgiveness, all at the same time. “Is that alright with you, Randi? And… Shannon, of course,” she ventured.

Randi nodded, a silent message to Canton that she was correct. “I'll talk to him, and yes, it's perfectly fine with me. A little hard work would do him good, I think.”

“Excellent.” Canton smiled at both mother and son. “Blake, I'll give you a call in a day or so to give you particulars.”

“Awesome! Thanks, Canton!”

“I'd better get going. I came in for a cup of coffee while I ran some errands,” Canton explained. The truth of the matter was, she wanted to get out of Randi's personal space as quickly as possible. Her mere nearness was causing all sorts of short circuiting to happen, and Canton couldn't afford to start feeling again. She hadn't allowed her emotions to escape their prison since Robin, and she had no desire to start now.

“It was good to see you again, Canton,” Randi smiled.

“You, too.” Canton turned to Blake. “Talk to you soon.”

Blake followed Canton with his eyes as she left the coffee shop. “Jesus, she's hot,” he muttered.

Randi hid her smile, nodding. “She's a very beautiful woman,” she said softly.

As soon as Canton cleared the door to the coffee shop, she leaned back against the wall, heart pounding as she closed her eyes. “Oh my god,” she whispered.

Disclaimers: Mine.

Sex: Of course, and lots of it! I wouldn't recommend reading this one at work, guys. That being so: there will be "gasp" a bit of hetero in here. Sorry guys, just needed for the storyline.

Warning: I do not give permission for anyone to re-post this story anywhere with any changes, such as: change in title, character names, storyline, etc. I will seek legal action.

If you'd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com .

First Time

by

Kim Pritekel

Part 3

Present Day:

The silence stretched on as Randi finished cleaning up the kitchen and Shannon sat at the kitchen table, pretending to read the daily newspaper. Randi glanced over her shoulder at him as she wiped down the counters. She was irritated, as she wished he would just come out with it.

“What's on your mind?” she asked at length, the sweetness in her voice belying her true emotions, as per usual.

“Why do you think there's something on my mind?” Shannon asked, not bothering to look up from his paper.

“Well, perhaps because you've been sitting there stewing since I told you, nearly an hour ago,” Randi said, slapping the wet dish towel on the sink edge to dry. She leaned back against the counter, arms crossed over her chest.

Shannon slammed the paper down onto the table and turned to face his wife. “Are you seriously considering letting our son be a common laborer?” he bellowed.

Randi knew she had to keep her temper in check, as Shannon had already lost his. She took a deep breath in order to keep her voice controlled. “I'm not considering it Shannon . I've consented for him to do this.”

“So, you don't mind then that our son will be some cheap laborer for the rest of his life, rather than going out and getting himself established in some sort of respectable job, then?”

“Blake's chance at getting a ‘respectable job',” Randi bit back, using her fingers for quotes, “ended the day you decided it wasn't important to push him in school. He's opted to get his GED, but until then, Blake may as well put on his McDonald's uniform now and join the ranks.”

“There's plenty he could do other than working for some woman who wants to renovate her goddamn house, Randi!” Shannon exclaimed, shoving up from his chair and taking a step towards Randi. “This was one of the more stupid things you've done!”

Randi immediately felt herself shrink in front of Shannon , his words penetrating her subconscious and kicking into her well-conditioned state as Mrs. Shannon Lehey. Her head fell and she nodded, shoulders slumped. “Alright, Shannon ,” she said softly. “I'll call Canton tomorrow and let her know.”

“Good. Maybe someday when you grow a fucking brain our son will follow suit.” Shannon slammed out of the room, leaving a shaken Randi behind.

Randi felt the tears come, and though she tried to hold them back, she knew she couldn't so let them quietly fall. Her streak of strength and independence was over, the old Randi back in place, as it should be, no doubt.

The next afternoon, Randi sat at a table in the coffee shop nervously waiting. Her hands were wrapped around a mug of steaming coffee. Her leg jiggled, a way for her body to try and exorcise the nervous energy within. She'd arrived early, and each time the bells above the door jingled, her heart leapt in her chest, but each time was a false alarm. That is, until about three seconds ago when Canton stepped through the door, blue eyes scanning the patrons until she spotted Randi tucked into the corner.

With a smile and wave, Canton made her way through the maze of patrons and tables, reaching Randi's table and pulling a chair out for herself to sit. She'd been shocked to get the call from Randi earlier that morning, but had readily agreed to meet, even though her heart was about to pound out of her chest.

“Good morning,” Canton said, getting herself settled.

“Good morning. Care for some coffee or anything?” Randi asked, indicating her own mug.

Randi smiled, taking a sip. “When I was pregnant with Blake I absolutely craved the smell. After he was born, I started and haven't stopped.”

“I hear crazy cravings can happen. I'll be right back.” Canton stood. “Would you like a refill?”

“Please.” Randi handed Canton her mug then sat and waited patiently for Canton to return, her palms beginning to sweat.

“Here ya go,” Canton said, sliding Randi's mug in front of her and sitting with her own. They quietly readied their respective mugs then settled in. Canton sat back in her chair and met Randi's gaze. “So, what's up? You said you wanted to discuss Blake.”

Randi nodded, sipping from her mug. She glanced at Canton then quickly looked away, though she wanted nothing more than to be able to just stare and take in the familiar features – now grown older – and radiant beauty. Canton looked so much the same, just more mature and even more beautiful, if that were possible. The only thing that seemed to be missing was the wolf-like intensity that she once possessed in her eyes. Now, though the color was still stunning, the life behind them seemed to have faded.

Clearing her throat and thoughts, Randi again meets Canton 's gaze. “My husband isn't so keen on the idea of his son becoming a manual laborer.”

Canton raised a brow as she sipped from her cup. “And what about your son, Randi?”

Randi looked away, feeling ashamed at her own weakness. “Personally I think it would be good for Blake. He seems to be a very lost soul and this might help him get some things straight in his life.”

“Did you tell Shannon that? Explain it to him?”

Randi sighed, pushing her mug aside. “He doesn't … work that way,” she hedged.

Canton studied her for a moment. Though Randi refused to meet her gaze, Canton had seen enough to understand. Immediately anger surged to the surface, but she knew she had to be careful how she handled this. “How old is Blake?”

“He'll be eighteen in a couple months.”

“There you go.” Canton sat back in her chair and crossed her arms over her chest. “He's almost an adult and can make his own decisions, Randi. Why don't you leave it up to him to talk to his dad?”

Randi studied Canton for a moment, a slow smile forming across her lips. “That's a great idea, thank you.” She wasn't at all confident that it would work, but she'd speak with Blake later. “So, what are your plans for the Gulch Ranch, then?”

“Well, after Grandpa died, I came back to settle the estate and got the property listed on Re-Max for rent, then returned home to New York .”

“So,” Randi said, her hands again cupping her mug, though more for something for her hands to do rather than because she wanted to take a drink. “You stayed on in New York , then?”

Canton could feel a heavy pall of tension beginning to form and regretted it immediately, as she knew her decisions were the cause. “Yes,” she said softly. She wanted to say more, to explain but something in her gut told her this wasn't the time. She just hoped she'd have the opportunity someday.

“That's wonderful, Canton ,” Randi said, a forced smile pulling her lips tight. She brought her mug up to take a sip. “What do you do there?”

“I have a medical practice in Manhattan .”

Randi was stunned. “What happened to engineering?”

Canton shrugged, fingering the handle on her mug nervously. “Things change I guess.”

“I suppose they do.” The tension was getting heavier and all Randi wanted to do was run. She needed calm and peace, the weight of stress almost unbearable for her now. “Well,” she said, scooting back from the table. “I'll talk to Blake and have him contact you either way, so you'll know if he can work for you or not in plenty of time.”

“Wonderful. I hope he can, he seems like a nice kid,” Canton said, also getting to her feet.

Randi smiled. “He has his moments, but I guess you'll be able to see that if he's your employee. Who knows: maybe you can get him to shape up.”

“I'll give it my best.” They faced each other for a moment of uncertainty. Canton could tell Randi wanted nothing more than to bolt from the room, but stopped her first with a hand to her arm. When she had the beautiful green gaze, she smiled. “It really is good to see you again, Randi. No matter how all this turns out…”

Randi felt her heart skip, but expertly concealed that fact behind a polite smile. “I agree. It's good to see you, too and to know that you're successful.”

Canton watched her walk away, and feared walk out of her life. Again. “Shit,” she muttered, running a hand through her hair. She was awash with the guilt from nearly twenty years ago all over again, and wondered if it would ever truly go away.

********************

1992:

“You know I saw you in the supply room at Papa Q's, don't you?” Randi asked, she and Canton laying naked on her bed after a marathon love making session, as her parents were out of town for the weekend. Randi lay on her side, one of her thighs tossed over one of Canton's.

Canton looked up at Randi from she lay on her back. “What was I doing?” she asked, trailing random patterns all along Randi's back with her fingertips.

“You were having sex with some girl using a – let's see, what did they call it? – strap-on?”

“Why, little miss innocence, I didn't know you knew words like that,” Canton gushed with feigned shock.

“Yeah, I didn't until I asked.”

Canton smirked. “Okay, so what of it? Me and that girl, I mean.”

“Well,” Randi hedged, suddenly feeling shy. “How does that work? Why would someone want you to use one of those things? I mean, if she wanted that then why didn't she just get some guy to screw her?”

“Ah, my young child.” Randi cried out in surprise as suddenly she found herself on her back, Canton lying between her legs.

“What are you doing?” Randi giggled, slapping Canton's naked butt with her palm.

“I'm going to demonstrate the proper usage and technique of the strap-on dildo.” Canton raised herself up on her hands and looked down at Randi's grinning face. “Listen and learn. See, the purpose – especially in this position,” she said, slowly grinding her sex into Randi's, making the blonde gasp, “is to make things a little more intimate and close. See, this way I can kiss you at the same time.”

Randi accepted the deep, passionate kiss she received, her hands gliding up Canton's back and tangling in her hair. Though she knew they were playing, her body was responding to the closeness and intimate touch.

“Here's how it would work,” Canton said, her voice and tone like that of a teacher, which made Randi giggle more. “I'd reach down like so,” Canton reached down between their bodies, grabbing hold of her invisible phallus, making sure the backs of her knuckles grazed across Randi's hardening clit, which made Randi moan. “Oops,” she joked with a shit-eating grin, which earned her a playful growl from Randi. “Cock in hand, I'd guide it until I could slide that puppy in,” Canton pushed her hips into Randi, almost able to imagine just exactly how that would feel. Obviously she wasn't alone, as Randi's eyes became hooded and her breathing changed.

“But, what does it do for you?” Randi asked, her voice somewhat breathy as she opened her legs wider, her hands running down to cup Canton's behind, pulling their bodies closer together with a soft moan.

“Well,” Canton said, her own voice shaky as her body responded fully to Randi's. “The other end of the dildo presses against my clit,” she explained, grinding their clits together, “like that,” her last word was lost into a breathy moan.

“I see,” Randi whimpered, urging her hips up to meet Canton's with more pressure.

“Then I can kiss you like this,” Canton gave Randi's lips a teasing lick, “as I begin to move.” She moved her hips slowly, pressing deep into Randi with each move.

“Oh, Canton,” Randi moaned, pulling the brunette down for a deep kiss, their hips moving together, the bed softly creaking with every gentle thrust.

“You like that?” Canton asked, raising herself to her hands and looking down into Randi's flushed face. “Feels good, doesn't it?”

“Amazing,” Randi gasped, her world narrowing down to that one pleasure point on her body as Canton's own body massaged it.

“It's even better with the strap-on,” Canton murmured into Randi's neck as she kissed and licked, heightening Randi's experience. It wasn't long before the pleasure built and the need for release took over. Canton used her powerful body to thrust against Randi, both panting and whimpering and then crying out as climax hit first Randi and then Canton.

They clung to each other, both trying to get themselves under control. Randi felt emotion swell in her chest and she barely held back the need to tell Canton that she loved her. Hell, she didn't even know the meaning of those words, let alone what to do with them. Instead, she held her tongue and held Canton even closer.

“So, that's how it's done,” Canton muttered from where her face was buried in Randi's neck, making Randi laugh and hug her closer.

********************

Present Day:

Canton lay in her bed, one hand tucked behind her head the other resting on her stomach. It was warm in the house, as she hadn't had time to fix the A/C yet, but she barely noticed, so far back in the past was she. She thought of the woman she'd sat across from at the coffee shop three days before and compared her with the girl she'd loved so long ago. Randi at thirty-six had blonde hair and green eyes, but that's about where the likeness ended.

The woman Canton had now seen twice was tired and sad. There was no life in her eyes, no adventure in her imagination. It seemed Randi had rolled over and died at some point, and now the shell that was her lived for Shannon and Blake, doing their bidding and nothing for herself. There was no there there, and it broke Canton's heart.

“Oh, Randi,” she whispered into the darkness of her bedroom. “I let you down so bad. I'm so sorry.” She couldn't stop the tears from coming.

********************

1992:

Canton sat behind the wheel of her old Plymouth, tapping the steering wheel with her fingers as she waited. She didn't have to wait long. Randi walked out the front door of the school surrounded by her large group of friends, though Anne was really the only person she was talking to. Canton watched her, her gaze trailing over Randi's incredible body and beautiful face. Today she was wearing a skirt and stylish tank top, all of which made Canton's mouth water.

Randi broke away from her friends and headed off down the road that would lead her home, the subtle sway of her hips nearly made Canton moan as she watched. No one in the school knew that Randi and Canton spoke let alone fucked on nearly a daily basis, so Canton waited until Randi had turned the corner then got the car moving.

She pulled up alongside the blonde, reaching over to roll down the window on the passenger side, which was next to Randi. “Little girl! Wanna ride with a stranger?” she called out.

Randi stopped, an instant smile coming to her face as she walked over to the car and rested her forearms along the open window. “Hey, you! Where were you today?”

“I was around. Get in: I've got a surprise for you.”

Randi quickly got in, after a look around first. Once in, she leaned over and gave Canton a breath-stealing kiss. “I missed you.”

“Mmm, I missed you, too.”

“What's my surprise?” Randi asked, her fingernail trailing up and down Canton's denim-clad thigh.

“You'll see.” Canton grinned over at Randi, reaching down and grabbing her hand, entwining their fingers as she rested their hands on the very thigh Randi had just been toying with.

“I got my acceptance letter today,” Randi said, nearly bouncing in her seat with excitement.

“You got in?” Canton asked, just as excited.

“Yes!”

“Woohoo!” Canton nearly ran them off the road as she leaned over to give Randi a quick kiss of congratulations.

“Canton!” Randi cried out, her heart pounding even as she laughed. “You're crazy!”

“And that's what you love about me, baby,” Canton grinned.

Randi blushed and looked away from a moment before her attention returned to Canton when her hand was squeezed.

“You could come visit me at Brown,” Canton said softly. “Your school won't be that far away.”

“I totally could!” Randi exclaimed, beyond excited by the prospect.

Canton drove them through winding roads and wooded landscape until finally she pulled into a densely wooded area, the sun barely shining in through the canopy of trees. Randi looked around, confused.

“What are we doing here?”

Canton grinned, reaching over and grabbing Randi by the back of the head and drawing her in for a kiss, which immediately deepened into the passion that had electrified their bond since day one.

“Let's go in the backseat and make out like a couple'a teenagers,” Canton said against Randi's mouth.

Randi chuckled. “We are a couple'a teenagers.”

“See? All the more reason.”

Giggling like school girls, they climbed into the spacious backseat of the old car, Canton pulling Randi onto her lap, facing her. Hands on Randi's ass, Canton pulled her in close, Randi gasping when she felt something pushing against her between Canton's legs.

“What the hell?” she asked, scooting back to see what the deal was.

“Surprise,” Canton whispered, taking one of Randi's hands and placing it on her bulging crotch. “This is for you, baby.”

Randi's excitement was a bit tinged by her nerves. She stared down at it, then unbuttoned and unzipped Canton's pants: she wanted to see it.

Canton watched as slightly shaking hands tugged her pants open and the realistic dildo was revealed, held in Randi's hand. Her gaze trailed up to Randi's face, curious to see what was going through her head.

“Is it going to hurt?” Randi asked, meeting Canton's gaze.

Canton smiled and shook her head, brushing some hair back from Randi's face. “Just like when my fingers are inside you, baby. Just a little bit bigger.”

Randi concentrated on the feel of the latex appendage, glancing at Canton with a devilish gaze as she began to stroke it, wondering if it would affect the brunette at all. From the scorching look she got, she figured it did. They shared a kiss that was equally scorching, especially as Canton brought her fingers between Randi's spread thighs, running her fingertips over Randi's sex, so hot it nearly burned her fingers.

Randi broke the kiss and moaned, her head falling back as Canton teased her clit through the quickly-saturated satin of her panties. In that moment, Canton took the opportunity to attack Randi's neck, laying a trail of fiery kisses and licks all along the smooth skin. Randi's hips began to move as her excitement grew.

Canton knew it was time and Randi was ready for her. She used one hand to grip the dildo and the other to push Randi's panties aside. She took Randi in a passionate kiss to take away the fear of what was about to happen. It worked beautifully as Randi's body relaxed, Canton easily sliding in, though she took it slow.

“Oh, Canton,” Randi breathed, eyes closing as she adjusted to the feel of Canton being so deep within her. She rested her hands on broad shoulders as she concentrated on what she was feeling. The penetration stung a bit, the dildo much thicker than two of Canton's fingers. After a moment, however, her body was ready.

Canton took hold of Randi's hips as they began to move, pleasure shooting through her as Randi's pushing down on the dildo put pressure on Canton's clit. Her eyes closed, head falling back against the seat, her own hips moving as she thrust up into Randi, increasing the depth and making Randi whimper.

Randi rested her hands on Canton's shoulders, her nails digging into the flesh as her climax began low in her belly, her hips moving at a frantic pace, the car rocking in time. Her body exploded, pleasure ripping through her as she yelled out, the cry loud in the close confines of the car. Canton followed soon after, both girls transported to another world as they clung to each other, Canton's head cradled against Randi's breasts.

An hour later, Canton held Randi in the backseat, the two sharing occasional kisses and caresses. “I love holding you,” she murmured, running her fingers up and down Randi's naked back, their clothing removed long ago.

“I love being held by you,” Randi whispered, cuddling in closer. “I feel so safe in your arms, Canton. It's like I can forget about all my worries when I'm in your arms.”

Canton sighed in contentment, bringing Randi's face up to hers for a long, loving kiss. There was no passion behind it, just promise and meaning. “It's never been like this for me before,” she whispered against Randi's lips.

Randi studied her eyes for a long moment. “Really? But you've been with so many girls.”

“Not since I met you.” Another kiss. “You're the only one.”

Randi pushed herself up so she could cup Canton's face in both hands, so much going through her head and heart. She didn't fully have the words for what she felt, but knew she could express it in her kiss.

********************

Present Day:

Canton brought her hands up, wiping at her eyes. “What happened, Randi?” she whispered, tears still flowing. “What happened?”

********************

1992:

Randi ran her fingers through Canton's hair as they kissed, slow and sensuous. Finally she broke the kiss, pressing her forehead against Canton's. “God, I love kissing you,” she whispered. “And I loved my surprise today.” One more kiss then she pulled away totally, gathering her backpack and the light jacket she'd worn to school, as it had been cooler that morning but had warmed up in the mid-May afternoon.

“I'm so glad.” Canton brushed a few strands of blonde hair away from Randi's face. “We'll bring my little friend into play again soon.”

Randi grinned then climbed out of the car, her sex a bit sore from her extracurricular activities of late, and headed into her house. What she hadn't noticed was the pair of eyes that watched from the front window.

Canton watched until Randi was in, loving the way her ass moved in the short skirt, then put the car in gear and pulled away from the curb, a very contented smile on her face.

Randi allowed her backpack to slide off her shoulder and down her arm so her hand could grab the straps. As she was about to mount the stairs that would take her to her bedroom, She was grabbed by the hand and whirled around. The slap came so suddenly that it knocked her against the wall. She looked up to see the furious eyes of her father standing over her.

“Is that where you been disappearing to?” he raged, pointing in the general direction of the street out front. “Hanging around with that little white trash dyke?” Another slap. “I will not allow you to embarrass this family like that, Randi!” Slap! “You little slut! You little lesbian slut!”

********************

Present Day:

Randi cried out as she popped up in a sweat as she sat in bed. Her chest was heaving with remembered fear and devastation. She brought a hand to her chest as she took several deep breaths, trying to calm down. She hadn't had that nightmare memory in many, many years. Undoubtedly seeing Canton again brought it all back to bear.

She glanced over at Shannon, relieved to see he was still asleep, and her strong waking reaction hadn't woken him. Trying to decide what she wanted to do, Randi decided it would be best for to get up and leave Shannon be, as she feared if she tried to go back to sleep, she'd only toss and turn, and maybe revisit her childhood home, a place she didn't want to go.

Staying as quiet as she could, Randi padded her way downstairs to the kitchen, unsure what she wanted to do once she was there. She supposed she could start cleaning the oven, a chore she'd been putting off all week. A glance at the stove clock told her it was nearly five in the morning. At this rate, she'd likely just stay up and start her day early.

She decided to make a full-on breakfast for the men in her life, knowing that Shannon would be up for work in less than two hours, followed by Blake – if he got up on time – for his new job at Canton's place, an hour after that. She searched through the cabinets and fridge to see what she had. She pulled a pound of bacon out of the freezer to beginning thawing while she decided what else she could make. Both men had hearty appetites, so she decided to make eggs and bacon, country potatoes and homemade waffles, served with homemade jelly, as no one in the Lehey house use syrup on anything.

Randi tried to clear her mind as she removed the ingredients she'd need, setting them all out on the cooking island Shannon had installed for her on their eleventh wedding anniversary, a flat-top stove added last Christmas. She gathered the dishes and bowls she'd need, along with spices. As she began to crack eggs into a glass bowl, Randi's mind went back to her nightmare, unable to get the fury that was her father's face that evening out of her mind's eye. She'd never fully forgiven him for how he'd acted that day, but there was nothing to be done.

Even so, Randi's mind traveled past that day and onto the following day at school.

********************

1992:

Randi hadn't seen nor spoken to Canton in three days, and it had been the longest three days of her life. She'd managed to avoid her at school and walked home a different way or begged for rides from her friends. She just couldn't face her and didn't know how to handle it. But, as she sat on the floor in front of her locker, organizing her backpack for the weekend homework, she felt a presence behind her and knew who it was.

“Where you been?” Canton whispered in her ear, squatting next to her.

Randi didn't look at her, instead continued with her task, though her movements had gotten a bit more aggressive than need be. “I've been busy, Canton,” she said, not an ounce of expression in her voice. “You know, we do graduate in a few weeks, and all.”

Canton was taken aback by Randi's coldness, and thought for a moment that maybe it was just because she'd approached her in a school hallway, a proven no-no. “Yeah, and did you happen to hear who happened to be this year's Valedictorian?” she asked, a cocky grin on her face, which went unseen as Randi refused to look at her. “Hey, what's going on?” Randi still wouldn't look at her. “Hey.” Canton placed two fingers under Randi's chin and forced her to face her. She gasped when she saw the bruise under Randi's left eye, a sick feeling clenching her stomach. “What happened?” she whispered.

Randi pulled away, shoving the last of her books into her bag then slamming her locker shut. She got to her feet, followed by a concerned Canton. “Leave me alone!” she yelled, green eyes filled with fire. “Haven't you caused me enough trouble?!” With that, she spun on her heel and stormed down the hall, quickly disappearing in the throng of fellow students and faculty.

********************

Present Day:

Randi rested her hands against the counter and leaned on them, her head falling as her eyes closed. She took a deep breath, trying to keep her emotions under control, even though it was a losing battle. She felt the sting of tears behind her eyes and squeezed them shut, trying to keep them in: no good. A sob escaped Randi's throat as the emotions and memories came rushing back, including the memory that Canton hadn't even shown up for graduation, the first time in the school's history with no speech from the coveted Valedictorian.

Randi quickly tried to wipe her tears as she heard water running upstairs, someone had flushed a toilet. Likely it was just Shannon or Blake waking up to pee before returning to bed, but she didn't want to take the chance of being caught, lost in a past that no longer mattered. She'd made her choices and now had to live with them.

She focused on her task once more, beating the eggs and adding some garlic salt and pepper, as well as some onions and peppers she chopped up, then threw in some sharp cheddar for good measure. Setting the bowl aside, she began to mix the waffles. This she knew; this she understood and had control over. This was her domain, the one place where she felt needed and accepted. Taking care of her boys, the one thing she knew without a doubt she was good at.

********************

Present Day:

Canton sipped her coffee from where she stood on the covered porch of the main house. She watched as a small train of cars and trucks made their dusty way up the drive, only to find random parking spots in front of the house. Doors opened as the young men and women she'd hired piled out, all looking around, hoping to find something to lead them.

“'Mornin',” Canton called out, stepping out of the deep shadows and into the early morning sunlight. “Glad you all could make it.” She eyed everyone before, pleased to see Blake Lehey was one of them. “I've got breakfast cooked up inside so go on in and eat up. We've got a lot of work to do today.” She stayed put, moving out of the way as hungry workers hurried inside. She knew they'd be pleased with the feast she'd prepared for them.

As the day went on, the building supplies arrived, as well as a team of construction workers and site manager and a trailer for planning. By the time the sun was high, the place was mass chaos: heavy machinery was in motion, including a bulldozer that was steadily knocking down the old building that had housed Canton during her high school years. She stood off to the side, watching. So many memories lived within those walls, all gone now. She planned to replace it with a guest cottage.

As she stood and watched, she was surprised to see a shadow walk up next to her own. She glanced over to see Randi watching the destruction, her expression that of a woman deep in thought.

“Gonna miss the old place,” Canton said quietly, getting Randi's attention with that statement.

Randi nodded. “A lot of memories in there.” They shared a look, the only time their shared past had come up. “Why are you knocking it down?”

“The place was in bad shape and just this side of condemned. It hasn't been taken care of and was trashed and pretty much rat-infested.”

“So sad,” Randi said softly. “How's it going? Is Blake being a real pain in the ass?”

“No, he's done great, actually.” Canton pointed towards the area where the frame of a new building was going up. A group of young mean were balanced on one of the support beams hammering, one of them being Blake.

Randi gasped, her hand going to her mouth. “Oh god!”

Canton grinned. “He's fine. They're tied in, so don't worry.” Canton studied the blonde for a moment, noting the way the high afternoon sun shone on her honey-colored hair, which was pulled back into a ponytail. “So what brings you by?”

“Well, I actually brought some lunch.” Randi looked around. “Though I don't think I brought enough.” She chuckled, turning to Canton. “I didn't realize what a big production this would be.” She felt Canton's eyes on her and looked to see the doubtful look on the beautiful face. “Okay yes, I also wanted to be nosey and see what you had my son doing. Fine, you got it out of me.”

Canton smiled, big and bright. “Figured as much, and thank you. You could have just come to spy or could have called. You didn't have to bring food, though I gotta tell ya,” she nodded towards the dozens of workers scattered about the property. “You'll have some happy campers.”

Canton, Randi and a couple of the guys set up a food station in the center of the yard, long tables set up end to end with the food spread out on them. A line had formed before all the food was even unloaded from the back of Randi's 4Runner. Looking at the crew, Randi shook her head.

“We won't have enough. I'm going to call for some large pizzas.”

“No,” Canton said, placing a hand on Randi's hand as the blonde had already pulled out her cell phone. “Let me. You've done enough.” Canton quickly ordered the pizzas then pocketed her phone. “More food's comin', gang!” she called out, grateful grunts her only response.

Randi went into mother hen mode as she made sure everyone had something to eat and drink, loaded plates for seconds and then went around with a large trash bag to gather plates, cups and plasticware. It felt so good to be useful, and the smiles and words of thanks she got made her shine brighter than the sun above.

“They all love you,” Canton chuckled as they cleaned up the tables and any leftover trash, the crew long gone back to work.

Randi grinned at her, wiping down one of the tables before breaking it down. “I can't help it. I can't go anywhere without trying to feed someone.”

Canton laughed. “Is that a ‘mom' pre-requisite?”

“You know, I think it is.”

They stood in silence for a moment, neither sure what to say. Canton tucked her hands into the back pockets of her cargo shorts, glancing over to see Randi was trying to keep herself busy by reorganizing things in the sacks that she'd be taking back to her car: extra plastic cups, paper plates and napkins. Canton's gaze traveled down the graceful slope of Randi's neck, visible with her hair pulled up. The blonde wore a simple cap-sleeved t-shirt, which revealed tanned arms that were lightly muscled. She was still petit with a flat belly and nice legs.

Randi felt eyes on her and turned to Canton in time to see Canton looking away. “Well, listen,” she said, feeling a bit uncomfortable and that she probably should leave. “thanks for letting me bust in on you guys like this today.”

“Busting in? Oh my god: Randi you were a god-send. I was just planning on ordering a bunch of pizzas and call it good. They got homemade meatloaf and mashed potatoes and salad. Trust me, you didn't bust in.”

Randi smiled and looked away, her face flushed. “Alright. Just want to make sure that I don't move in on your plans or anything.” She met Canton's kind gaze. “I've been told I can do that sometimes.”

Canton looked into her eyes and saw that same sadness return that she'd seen at the coffee shop. “Well, not here. You're welcome here anytime, and I mean that. Hell, why not come and join the gang?”

“Oh, I don't know,” Randi waved off the thought. “I don't want to intrude, and I have absolutely no construction skills whatsoever. Besides,” she nodded towards where Blake and a couple of the other guys were taking a water break. “I wouldn't want him to think I was spying on him or something.” She winked at Canton, considering their earlier conversation.

Canton nodded with a grin. “Then how about this: I'd really like for you to see what I'm doing here and get your opinion on it.” Canton felt her heart speed up as she realized what she was about to do; she couldn't seem to stop herself. “Why not come over tomorrow night – when my kitchen should be in one piece again – and I'll make dinner. I can show you the plans and colors and all that.”

Randi felt short of breath for a moment, panic beginning to settle in. She took a moment to get herself under control, and before she could think, she nodded. “Yes.”

“Are you sure?” Canton asked, not missing the frightened green eyes.

Randi nodded. “Yes. I'm sure.” But before she could change her mind, she began to gather up the things from the table. “Would you help me carry this stuff to my car?”

Everything loaded into the back of the 4Runner, Randi slammed the hatch shut then turned to Canton. She wasn't sure what came over her, but suddenly she found herself holding Canton in a tight hug, their bodies flush. She closed her eyes, a warm comfort stealing over her.

“I'm proud of you,” she said softly into the hug.

Canton lowered her face into Randi's hair, snagging a quick scent then pulling away. She looked down into Randi's face. “For what?”

“What all that you've accomplished. For staying true to yourself.”

Canton looked into Randi's eyes for a long moment, then smiled, shrugging it off. “Eh, I'm too stubborn to have done anything else. Besides, you've got a great kid over there, Randi,” she said softly, nodding in the general direction of the worksite.

“Thank you. I think you're the first person who's said that since he was in third grade.” They both laughed at that then Randi picked out the key that would start the engine of her SUV, effectively ending their conversation. “I hope the rest of the day goes well. Maybe I'll feed your crew again soon.”

“I certainly won't stop you; your cooking was spectacular.” Canton walked over to the driver's side door with Randi, putting a hand on the side of the black SUV as Randi climbed in.

“Thank you. I love to cook.” She smiled. “Maybe I should come over tomorrow night and cook for you instead.”

Canton chuckled. “No ma'am, I got it covered. I'm not so bad myself, as long as you like lasagna, potato soup and baked chicken.”

“Well, if those are the three things that are on your menu, I'm sure we'll get along just fine.” With a small smile and wave, Randi closed the car door and started the engine, pulling away in a cloud of dust.

Disclaimers: Mine.

Sex: Of course, and lots of it! I wouldn't recommend reading this one at work, guys. That being so: there will be "gasp" a bit of hetero in here. Sorry guys, just needed for the storyline.

Warning: I do not give permission for anyone to re-post this story anywhere with any changes, such as: change in title, character names, storyline, etc. I will seek legal action.

If you'd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com .

First Time

by

Kim Pritekel

Part 4

Present Day:

Randi leaned over the bathroom counter to get a closer look at herself in the mirror. She turned her head this way and that, checking out her skin, her eyebrows and finally her entire face. She backed away when she saw Shannon 's reflection in the mirror as he entered the bedroom and passed by the bathroom doorway. She returned her gaze to her own face once more, nervous butterflies flapping in her stomach.

“So, you're sure you can't make it?” she called out.

After a moment, a naked Shannon walked up behind her, his intent very clear. He grabbed Randi from behind, cupping her breasts through her nightshirt with large hands. “I'm sure,” he said into her neck. “Tell Anne and Adam I'm sorry I can't make it for dinner.”

Randi's eyes fell shut when she felt her panties pushed down over her hips. Obediently, she stepped out of them and held onto the countertop. She wasn't ready but knew it didn't matter; it wasn't up to her. Even so, suddenly she saw a flash of blue eyes…

********************

1992:

Randi could feel Canton behind her as they both knelt on the backseat of the Plymouth , naked breasts pressed against her back as Canton held their bodies together. The dildo was buried deep inside Randi's body as Canton rained kisses down along the side of Randi's face and neck.

“I love being inside you,” Canton whispered, slowly moving her hips, beginning a lazy rhythm that made Randi whimper for more.

“Oh, baby,” Randi breathed, one arm resting against the backdoor window for balance, the other hand reaching around to grab the side of Canton 's thigh.

They moved together, reveling in the feel and presence of the other, a true bonding of the body and soul, working towards a slow, yet powerful climax, which had them both trembling and out of breath.

Canton ran her hands up and down Randi's body, still buried inside her. “Oh, Randi,” she whispered into her neck. “I love-“ she stopped herself, fear clenching her insides. “I love being with you,” she said instead. “I can't imagine not being able to make love to you.”

Randi sighed happily, turning her head as far as she could to initiate a kiss. “I don't want you to ever stop making love to me.”

********************

Present Day:

Randi was shocked as she felt a climax rip through her body, but then quickly recovered as she gripped the bathroom counter tighter as her body was being thrust with more force towards it. She braced herself as the thrusts got harder, Shannon 's moans and heavy breathing burning her neck. His hips slapped ruthlessly against her behind until he finally stilled, a keening sound erupting from his throat. Randi could feel the throbbing heat inside her body, along with the lava-like wetness that oozed out as Shannon pulled out with a quick, stinging slap to her ass with his hand.

“That was good,” he growled, content as he sauntered into the bedroom and climbed into bed.

Randi quickly shut the bathroom door, just before she slid to the floor, the tears coming in silent waves. Her sex still pulsed with the remnants of her orgasm, which had nothing to do with Shannon , and she knew it. She felt like she'd just cheated on him with Canton . Again. After a long while, she got herself together and cleaned up then got into bed. She glanced over at Shannon , watching him as he slept on his back, breathing becoming deep and even.

She studied him for a long time, so many thoughts running through her mind. She wanted to reach out to him, to try and reclaim any reasons that she'd had for marrying him, for staying so long. Only one came to mind: Blake. On both counts.

********************

1993:

Randi couldn't get her lunch down fast enough. Her second semester in college was proving to be far more challenging than the first. She'd taken a heavier load of classes and had little time between to do anything but grab a quick bite then shoot off to the next. Such was her situation in the small café that was on campus, nicely place dead center so no one building was further than any other. She was studying her notes for the upcoming quiz in her next class as she shoveled in the spaghetti.

“Hey.”

Randi glanced up at the unexpected voice, a noodle hanging out of her mouth. A good-looking guy stood by her table, his smile turning into a grin when he saw the noodle, which Randi quickly sucked into her mouth. She felt embarrassed as the guy chuckled.

“I'm really sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if you'd like to go to dinner with me tonight.”

Randi blinked up at him for a moment, surprised by the suddenness of the invitation. She'd seen the guy around the café before, and in fact thought he worked there. “Um, I can't.”

He did his best to hide his disappointment, but Randi could still see it in his dark eyes. “Oh. Okay, well how about tomorrow night? Or whenever you're free next?”

Randi felt shy and unsure. She'd been at school since June, and in that seven month period of time, had been asked out a half dozen times. She'd only accepted a couple of them, but had never gotten into anything serious. She just couldn't get herself to be interested, no matter what she did. As she looked up at this guy now, she figured it would be the same thing.

“Look,” he said, able to see the play of uncertainty on her face. “My name is Shannon and I cook here at the café. IF you decide you wanna have dinner with me – or lunch – then let me know. Okay?”

Randi had to admit his smile was charming, and he seemed to be really understanding. “Okay,” she said. “Thank you for asking.”

With another smile and a nod, he walked away, disappearing in the crowd of gathering students. Randi turned her attention back to her lunch and her studies, feeling a little giddy. Regardless of whether or not she was interested, it was still flattering.

For the next month, every time she saw Shannon Lehey at the café, he found her and asked her out. After awhile, it became a game of who could get the words out first: will you go out with me? No. One day, Randi decided to throw Shannon off balance and before he could say anything, she said a simple yes. Their date had gone extremely well, and Randi had to admit despite herself that she liked Shannon . A lot. It helped to get her mind off the events of the past school year, which she had decided to chalk up to experimentation and the fact that she'd never see Canton Landis again.

Imagine her surprise when he proposed over the summer break, even though she refused to sleep with him. Amongst the pressure of her parents, Randi accepted, but insisted they wait until marriage before they had sex. Shannon had reluctantly agreed, and they'd gone back to school for the fall semester.

Randi sat in her dorm room, which had to her joy become a single, as her roommate decided to drop out and go home. She sat on her twin bed and stared down at the small diamond ring Shannon had given her, which glinted brightly in the reading lamp on Randi's desk. As she stared at it, she was filled with so many different mixed emotions. She cared for Shannon , that much she knew. He seemed to really love her and treated her well. Hell, what man in this day and age would be willing to wait to have sex with his girlfriend until after they were man and wife? Not many that Randi could think of.

Even so, she couldn't help but get lost in thoughts of her own future. Did she even want to get married? Was a wife and mother her personal goals, or that of her own mother? She loved college and was doing really well in it. She'd made some good friends and was enjoying life as an eighteen year old woman.

She thought about Shannon and the reasons she'd insisted they don't have sex. First off, she had no desire to get pregnant right now or do anything that could get her even close to that condition. The second reason was a little more deeply rooted. She couldn't help but think that this time two years previous, within a months' time Canton would start to pursue Randi, even if Randi would try to play hard to get. She smiled at that thought, as she'd proven to not be very good at it.

“Damn it,” she sighed, her hand flopping into her lap as her head rested against the wall her bed ran along. Her eyes fell closed as she felt the emotions rising. She was so confused, in deep turmoil.

She didn't have a chance for those emotions to reach the surface as they were interrupted by a knock on her dorm room door. Randi uncurled herself from the bed and padded over to it, dressed in flannel pants and a college t-shirt. She could only stand there and stare as Canton stared back at her.

********************

Present Day:

Canton pulled the door open, Randi standing on the other side. They shared a small smile before Canton stepped aside, allowing Randi to enter, which she did, handing Canton the bottle of wine she'd brought as she passed.

“It's strange for me to not be bringing food of some sort, so I couldn't come empty handed.”

Canton smiled in understanding. “Thank you, this was sweet of you. It should go along great with the chicken, too.”

Randi waited in the entryway for Canton to close and lock the front door, not sure where she wanted her to go. She took a look around, swarmed by warm memories of being in these rooms with Canton and her grandfather. Everything was torn up now, however, leaving almost skeletal remains in some of the rooms.

“Come on back,” Canton said, leading the way down the hall to the kitchen, which was one of the few rooms that had been spared of the carnage.

Randi followed, taking a seat at one of the chairs. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Nope,” Canton said with a smile over her shoulder before she took the glass cooking dish from the oven with an oven mitt. “I hope you're hungry; I made enough to feed a small army.”

Randi poured them both a glass of wine as Canton loaded plates and got everything settled on the table. Canton sat in the chair across from her and grabbed her glass, raising it for a toast.

“What shall we toast to?” she asked.

“How about new beginnings? With you here in the house, essentially rebuilding,” Randi offered.

“I like it. Alright then: to new beginnings.” Their glasses clinked in toast and they sipped. “Mm, good wine, Randi.”

“Thank you.” Randi set her glass down and began to dig into the wonderful-smelling dinner of chicken and rice with steamed veggies and homemade rolls. She had made a pact with herself that she'd put any thoughts of their past out of her mind. The past was the past and needed to stay there. It would do no good drudging all that up now. After all, they were women pushing forty, and had been just kids then.

“You know Randi, I'm really surprised you came back here after college,” Canton said, glancing at her dinner guest.

“Well, after Shannon finished his degree, we already had a two month old, so we decided to head back here to set up house. I knew my mom would help out with care so I could go back to school.”

“You didn't finish?” Canton asked innocently, sipping from her wine.

This was a touchy subject to be sure. Randi studied her plate for a moment before responding, her voice quiet. “I wanted to. But,” she sighed, looking at Canton . “It just wasn't in the cards. Being a mom and wife took over.”

Canton was surprise, knowing how against that life Randi was when they were seventeen. “Do you regret it?” she asked softly, understanding in her voice.

“Sometimes. I mean, don't get me wrong; I'll never regret being home with my son, but yes, I do.” Randi was surprised such truth had come out of her mouth, as she always had a patent answer to these kind of questions: I love my family and am glad I was able to be there for them.

“I have this credo that I live by, and that is: you're not dead until you're six feet under.” She said no more, instead meeting and holding Randi's gaze. “There's always time, Randi.”

Randi snorted derisively. “What on earth would anyone want with a forty-three year old lawyer, just starting out, Canton ?”

“Well, first of all, you're only thirty-six – soon to be thirty-seven if I remember correctly – and secondly, who cares about ‘who'. All that matters is you. If you want to accomplish becoming an attorney in this life time,” Canton shrugged, “nobody's stopping you.”

“But me, right?” Randi bit out, far harsher than she intended. She stopped herself, taking a deep breath. “I'm sorry. You don't deserve to have my insecurities tossed in your lap.”

“It's okay.” Canton gave her a reassuring smile. “I'll let it go. It's your life Randi, and as long as you're happy, nobody has a right to say a word otherwise.”

“Thank you,” Randi said softly, feeling foolish. She decided it was a good time to get the conversation off her life: after all, there wasn't much that was all that interesting about her life to talk about. “What about you? I know you have a medical practice, but what else? You must have someone back there in the Big Apple waiting for you to return.” She was fishing and they both knew it.

Canton was quiet for a moment, organizing her thoughts before she responded. “I had a partner for five years. Robin. But,” she let out a heavy sigh. “She was killed four years ago in a motorcycle accident.”

Randi sat there, stunned. She felt her face go pale and stomach knot up. “My god,” she whispered. “I'm so sorry.”

“It's alright. I've had time to deal and, hopefully, heal.” Canton gave her a reassuring smile then finished her glass of wine, holding up the bottle to offer another glass to Randi, who accepted.

“This may be a mistake – as I rarely drink – but why not,” she laughed, holding her glass up for more.

Canton grinned. “I'll call you a cab if it gets too out of hand.”

***

Shannon glanced into the rearview mirror, making sure his chin had stopped bleeding from the quickie shave job he'd done at home. Free and clear, he pushed open the door to his car and grabbed the bottle of wine he'd picked up on the way, then slammed and locked the door, making his way up the walkway that would lead to Anne's house.

He rang the doorbell, waiting a moment until finally Anne opened the door, giving him a smile of greeting. “Hey, Shannon ,” she said, leaning against the doorframe. “What's up?”

***

Randi hadn't laughed so hard in years! She fell over on the sofa, watching as Canton demonstrated how their old gym teacher used to walk.

“And don't you remember?” Canton said, pushing her ass out and her head forward, looking like a duck that mated with a penguin as she strutted across the half-destroyed living room. “And then,” Canton laughed, more amused by Randi than by the memory of the teacher. “And then she used to turn and look at you with those beady little eyes,” she turned and faced Randi, her face scrunched up like a raisin. “Randi!” she screeched, causing even more shrill laughter to erupt from Randi. “Randi O'Shea! Where are your gym shorts! I'll have to spank you!”

“Oh my god!” Randi laughed, sitting up and holding her stomach. “Stop! Oh my god, stop! I'm about to pee my pants!”

Canton laughed even harder, grabbing her wine glass and downing the last bit of her fourth. She plopped down on the couch next to Randi, grinning over at her. “I forgot how much friggin' fun we used to have, girl.” She slapped Randi on the leg.

“We sure did.” Randi got herself under control and looked at Canton , both erupting into fresh giggles.

***

Shannon slammed into the house, looking for what, he wasn't sure. He headed up to the bedroom he shared with Randi, searching through the drawers of her dresser and nightstand. He only found clothing and the vibrator he didn't know she had. Tossing it aside, he continued searching.

***

“And, in here I'm going to pull down this wall to make the master suite bigger. It'll bring the number of bedrooms in the house to three rather than four, but it's not like I plan to bring a family in here, so,” Canton said, leading Randi into her bedroom.

Randi turned in a small circle as she checked the space out. She'd never been in the bedroom, as it had belonged to Canton 's grandfather when they were teenagers. “Wow. This will be an amazing house when you're done,” she complimented.

“Thanks. I look forward to it.”

Randi studied Canton for a long moment. “What's your plan, Canton ? You've got a practice in New York , so what would you need with this place?”

“Well,” Canton sighed, hands on hips as she looked around. “I don't know.” She met Randi's gaze. “I'm sort of looking for a change. My business partner and I have been talking about opening more offices along the east coast, and I mentioned maybe moving some out further west.”

“Here in Denver ?”

“Here in Denver .”

Randi considered that for a moment, a slow smile spreading across her face. “I think that's wonderful, Canton ,” she said softly, meaning every word.

***

Randi tried to be quiet as she let herself into the house. It was past two in the morning, and she was exhausted. Figuring Shannon had long ago gone to bed, she intended to climb in beside him and crash. She hadn't had such a late night since her brief stint in college.

Making her way through the living room towards the stairs, she nearly screamed in surprise when a lamp was flicked on and Shannon was revealed, sitting in his recliner. He looked at her with hard eyes, his mouth tight and jaw muscles clenched.

“Jesus, Shannon ,” she breathed, a hand to her pounding heart. “You scared the hell out of me.” She was about to head on past him and towards the stairs but was stopped with a vise-like grip on her arm, which made her swing around and nearly collide with him. “Stop it, Shannon , you're hurting me.”

“Where have you been?” he growled.

“I told you. I had-“

“Dinner with Anne,” he finished for her. “Don't lie to me,” he said, face close to hers and voice dangerously low. Randi stared at him with wide, frightened eyes. “I was over there, Randi!” he boomed, fingers tightening on her arm. “Where were you?!”

“I'm sorry I lied,” Randi breathed, her fear making her nearly breathless. “I had dinner over an old friend's house.”

“Who?”

“A girl I haven't seen since my senior year.”

Shannon glared at her for a long moment, he jaw muscle flexing. “It was her, wasn't it?” he growled. “Ben was right.”

“What does my father have to do with this, Shannon ?” she asked, her arm still held in the painful grasp of her husband.

“He told me about that girl. It was her, wasn't it? Wasn't it?!”

Randi started, transported back to a day long ago. She saw the rage in her father's face in the face of the man she'd married eighteen years ago. “Please don't hurt me,” she whispered.

***

Anne glanced over at her friend as she spread the sheets over the guest bedroom bed, which hadn't been used since her mother-in-law last visited, eight months before. She couldn't believe it as her friend huddled in the corner, her bruised face hidden from view. Anne's stomach roiled with the realization that Shannon had finally taken it too far. She knew he was a tough customer, but never thought he'd actually strike Randi.

“The bed's ready, sweetie,” she said softly, patting the soft mattress.

Randi looked up from where her aching face had been buried in her raised knees. “Thanks, Anne,” she whispered, pushing up from the armchair tucked into the corner of the small bedroom. She tried to give her best friend a smile, but it failed miserably.

Anne sat on the edge of the bed, unsure what to say. Ten minutes before she'd opened the door to a sobbing Randi, begging for a bed for the night. It was nearly three in the morning, and Anne was exhausted, but she was on full alert to a situation she didn't understand. She looked at her friend, who sat next to her on the bed.

“What happened?” she asked softly, trying to keep her own emotions in check, even as she reached out and gently brushed the backs of her fingers of an un-injured portion of Randi's face. “Please tell me why he hit you.”

“Can we talk about this tomorrow, Anne? I'm so tired.” Randi looked at her with red-rimmed eyes. “Please?”

“Okay, sweetie.” Anne hugged Randi tight then left her alone, softly closing the door behind her.

Left alone, Randi tugged off her shoes and clothing, slipping into the t-shirt and shorts Anne had given her to borrow. Dressed for bed, she lay down and curled up on her side, the tears coming once again.

********************

1993:

Randi stared up at Canton , not sure what to say. Rarely left speechless, this was certainly one of those moments. Canton looked as beautiful as ever, dressed in all black, with a black leather jacket. The thing that caught Randi's attention, however was the intensity in her eyes.

“Hey,” she said, her voice velvety smooth. Randi was still too dumbstruck to speak. Canton took a step forward, forcing Randi to take a step backward or be run into by the fierceness of Canton 's presence. Canton slammed the door shut behind her, not stopping until she had Randi against a wall.

“What are you doing here?” Randi finally managed to breathe. Her emotions were going haywire, caught between anger and deep regret.

“I heard through the grapevine that you're getting married,” Canton said, though it hurt her to let the words pass through her lips.

Randi nodded. “Yes.”

“Not on my watch.”

The kiss came so quickly, Randi had no time to react or stop it. Instead, by the time her mind caught up to events, she'd already brought her hands up, tangling them in thick dark hair, whimpering in desperation as she pulled Canton closer.

“Oh, Randi,” Canton whispered, placing kisses all over Randi's face and neck as her hands worked to remove the blonde's clothing. “I can't let you do this.”

“ Canton ,” was all Randi could manage, her hands helping as she shoved her shorts down her legs. Standing naked, she returned Canton 's savage kiss, which was nearly painful in its intensity.

Canton never broke the kiss as she shrugged out of her jacket, throwing it on the floor. She stepped back just enough to allow her shirt to be removed by Randi, then her mouth was back, demanding control. Within moments she, too was naked.

Randi's back hit her bed with such force that it nearly knocked the wind out of her, but she didn't care. She clung painfully to Canton , pulling their bodies together as their tongues continued to battle for dominance. With near super-human strength, she pushed until she'd reversed their position, Canton lying beneath her.

Randi left Canton 's mouth, instead her lips and tongue exploring a graceful neck and further down until she had one of Canton 's breasts in her hand and finally the stiff nipple in her mouth. Canton cried out, her hands burying themselves in blonde hair, her hips thrusting up into Randi, who's narrow hips were cradled between her thighs.

“Baby,” she whimpered, needing desperately for the release that only Randi could offer. She reached one of her hands down until she was cupping Randi's butt, pulling her closer into her. “Please,” she begged.

Randi abandoned Canton 's breasts and worked her way further down the gorgeous body until her mouth was where Canton needed it to be most. She wrapped her arms around Canton 's thighs, holding in her place as she feasted as though it were her last meal.

It didn't take long for Canton to come with a loud cry, her chest heaving and sex pulsing as she felt Randi kiss her way back up her body until she had her in her arms. The kiss they shared was a bit calmer, more about exploration than ravaging. Canton gently pushed Randi onto her back then got up from the bed, reaching for her jacket. From the inside pocket she pulled out her dildo and harness, watching Randi's expectant face as she secured it to her body.

Randi spread her legs in invitation, even as she reached from between them for Canton , pulling her on top of her. “I can't believe you hid that in your jacket,” she smiled.

Canton grinned. “Better than waving it for all to see.”

Randi's next words died on her lips as Canton entered her slowly and smoothly, her sex beyond saturated and ready. “ Canton ,” she moaned, holding the brunette close.

“I'm here, baby,” Canton said, laying a soft kiss on Randi's lips.

She rested on her elbows, her breasts pressed against Randi's as her hips began to move. She knew this wouldn't last long as Randi was so near the brink already. She didn't bother with sensual as she wanted to give Randi as much pleasure as possible.

Randi cried out as Canton began to pump her hips, easily sliding within Randi's slick depths. She reached down, cupping Canton 's behind as she encouraged her to take her. “Yesss,” she hissed, raising her knees and opening them wider. Her eyes slammed shut at the deeper penetration as she felt her orgasm beginning deep in her belly.

Blue eyes bored into her own, chiseled features flushed with the height of passion. Blue eyes closed as full lips opened, perfect white teeth bared as pleasure overtook, two sweaty bodies climaxing as one. Randi's fingers flexed and relaxed as she clung to the body atop hers, her sex pulsing in time with her raging heartbeat.

“I love you, Randi.”

I love you, too, Canton .”

Canton thrust a few more times, hard enough to bang the headboard into the wall. Randi cried out for what seemed minutes as her pleasure lasted, though in truth was but a few precious moments. She hugged Canton to her as she wrapped her legs around her waist, wanting her as close as possible.

“I want you to crawl inside me,” she murmured into Canton 's sweaty neck. “I want you to live inside me.”

Canton sighed at the words, lifting herself as much as her human bindings would allow. “I love you. I've wanted to tell you that since the day I first kissed you.” She kissed her long and deep. “I love you.”

“I love you so much.” Randi held her close. “I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry I treated you that way.” She felt the tears come and couldn't hold them back.

Canton slowly pulled out of Randi, quickly unbuckling herself from the harness, which was tossed to the floor, and pulled Randi to her. She gently rocked her as she caressed her back and hair. “It's okay, baby,” she cooed.

They lay there in silence for a long moment, both absorbing the other. It had been nearly a year and a half since they'd last seen each other. Randi rested her head on Canton 's shoulder, wrapping a possessive arm around her. “How did you find me?” she asked softly.

“A little investigation goes a long way. I heard from back home about you and this guy.” Canton 's voice grew hard, her jealousy an ugly monster that she was trying to keep in tow. Her eyes squeezed shut, jaw clenching as she desperately tried to push it down. “I can't watch you marry him, Randi.”

Randi lifted her head, flipping her hair to the side as she studied Canton 's face. It broke her heart to see the pain in those blue eyes, blue eyes that once scared her with their intensity and now made her melt. “Baby,” she whispered, cupping Canton 's cheek with her palm. “I don't know what to do.”

Canton met her gaze, her own filling with unshed anguish. “I can't tell you what to do, Randi. I don't want you to hate me.”

“Oh god,” Randi cried, taking Canton in a hard kiss, her own emotion spilling over. “I could never hate you,” she breathed. “Never.”

“Don't marry him, Randi. Please, don't marry him…”

********************

Present Day:

Canton 's words echoed in Randi's head, even as she sat at Anne's kitchen table, staring off into a distant past, her friend watching her closely. “We were up all night,” she said, her voice as soft and lifeless as it had been since she began her story. “We talked, we fought… we made love.” She looked down at the nearly-cold cup of coffee that sat before her.

Anne could barely breathe, stunned by all that she'd been told. How had she not seen this when they were in their senior year of high school? She felt slighted as Randi's best friend that she'd never been told, and foolish that she'd never noticed. Finally she took a deep breath and slowly let it out. She grabbed Randi's cup and her own, dumping the cold remnants and refilling both, then slid Randi's back in front of her as she resumed her seat.

“I don't know what to say, Randi. I'm stunned.” She studied her friend, who still refused to meet her gaze. “Then what happened?”

“We made a plan.” Randi looked at Anne, her eyes bright from unshed tears, her voice shaky. “I was going to leave school and go back to New York with her.”

Anne could tell Randi was on the edge of losing control of her emotions. She reached over and took one of her pale, cool hands. “So what happened?” she whispered. “Why didn't you?”

Randi accepted the napkin Anne offered her, wiping at her eyes as the tears fell. “Because when I woke up she was gone,” she whispered, her tears coming in full as a sob was ripped from her throat.

Anne left her seat and hurried to her friend, hugging her close. “Oh, sweetie,” she whispered, placing a loving kiss on top of her head. “You've held all this in for so long.”

“I was devastated. The next night I went to Shannon , needing to prove something.” She laughed bitterly through her tears. “I needed to know if it was the right thing to do, to keep him as my consolation prize.” She looked up at Anne with red-rimmed eyes. “I had decided to cancel the wedding and then I found out I was pregnant.”

Anne rocked her as fresh tears came, her own stinging the backs of her eyes.

********************

1993:

Canton had been lying awake for more than two hours, since the last time they'd made love. Both had been so exhausted, sleep was the next natural course of action. At least for Randi, anyway. Canton hadn't been able to shut her mind off, so instead she lay there, stroking Randi's soft hair and studying her face, memorizing every feature, every line, every dip and curve.

“I love you so much,” she whispered, more inside her own heart than out loud.

Even so, she knew as she lay there with Randi that she had to do what was right: right for Randi, but right for herself, too. She felt like a piece of her soul was being ripped away as she slowly moved out of the bed, silently gathering her clothing and tugging them on, her gaze never leaving her heart, who still slept in the bed. She didn't dare touch Randi again, or even kiss her goodbye, because she knew then she'd never leave.

The door clicked softly closed and suddenly Canton was thrust into the harsh lighting of the dorm hallway, quiet at just before five in the morning. She leaned against the wall next to Randi's door, knowing this was her last chance. She glanced over at the doorknob: all it would take was one step and a simple gesture with her hand, and she'd be right back, basking in the warmth that made her complete.

Heart breaking wide open, Canton tossed her leather jacket over her shoulder and hurried down the hall, shoving the stairwell door open and plowing down the three flights of stairs that would take her outside and to her chosen destiny.

********************

Present Day:

Canton 's black Jeep Wrangler sat silent on her land, surrounded by nothing but darkness, other than the light of the full moon above, which drenched her in silvery light as she reclined on the hood of the Jeep. She stared off into the darkness, hands tucked behind her head. Like a spotlight, a beam of moonlight caught one of her tears as it slid down her cheek, a silvery streak following in a zigzag path.

Disclaimers: Mine.

Sex: Of course, and lots of it! I wouldn't recommend reading this one at work, guys. That being so: there will be "gasp" a bit of hetero in here. Sorry guys, just needed for the storyline.

Warning: I do not give permission for anyone to re-post this story anywhere with any changes, such as: change in title, character names, storyline, etc. I will seek legal action.

If you'd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com.

First Time

by

Kim Pritekel

Part 5

Present Day:

Canton was thrilled to see things beginning to come together so well. She had a small army of workers, which certainly helped to speed things up. It had been two days since her dinner with Randi, and Canton was surprised that the blonde hadn't been to the site since, though Blake was there every day, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Well, almost. He had looked hung over this morning, but Canton wasn't going to fault the kid for having a good time.

As the sun rose higher in the sky, Canton was hoping that perhaps Randi would show up with lunch, or just show up at all. The catering company arrived right on time, and Canton stood back, watching as all her workers crammed their mouths with as much food as was available. Canton scanned the tables full of men and women until she saw Blake's familiar dark head.

"Blake, can I talk to you for a sec?" she asked, stepping up beside him.

"Sure." Blake pushed back from the table, his table mates giving him hoots and hollers that he was in trouble. He waved them off with a good-natured smile and followed Canton over towards where the front porch had once been. It was being rebuilt today. "What's up?" he asked, tanned arms crossed over his chest.

"I'm surprised I haven't seen your mom around. Everything okay?" Canton felt like a complete idiot for asking, after all Randi was a grown woman and could do as she pleased. Even so, Canton missed her.

Blake suddenly got real uncomfortable, a hand coming up to rub the back of his neck, tanned a rich brown from his week in the sun. "Uh," he hedged, not sure what he should say. One look into Canton's concerned blue eyes, he decided to tell. "She's not staying at the house right now, actually."

Canton was taken aback. "What? Why? "

"I don't know. I guess her and my dad got into it pretty bad a couple nights ago. She's been staying at Anne's ever since."

"Okay. Thanks, Blake," she said absently, walking towards her Jeep as Blake walked back to his table and lunch. She indicated for the site manager that she was leaving then climbed into her Jeep and got it started up.

***

Randi looked around the bedroom, hands on hips as she tried to decide what - if anything - needed to come with her for now. Satisfied, she grabbed the packed suitcase and headed downstairs, trying to hurry as though Shannon had left for work that morning, there was no telling if he'd come for lunch. She wanted to get out of there first, as right now wasn't the time for a confrontation with him; she needed to figure what her plan was, first.

The sun was bright and warm as she hurried as quickly as the heavy suitcase would allow, grunting as she heaved it into the backseat of her SUV. She heard a car pull up and her heart lurched. Expecting to see Shannon, she was relieved to see that it was Canton's Jeep. The relief was short-lived, as next came frustration and sadness. After pouring her heart and memories out for Anne, she had been forced to relive those moments from her past, which had proved to be the most painful of her life.

"Hey," Canton said, walking up the driveway to where Randi was loading her car. "What's this?" she asked, tapping the suitcase.

Randi sighed and looked up into Canton's eyes. "I'm not entirely sure what it is, to be honest. Is it something I should have done years ago or is it something temporary?" She shrugged. "I just don't know."

"Do you want to talk about it?" Canton asked. "I don't mean to be presumptuous, but my gut tells me some of this is because of me. At least, my keeping you out so late."

Randi studied her for a long moment then nodded. "Yes, I'd like to talk. I need to talk."

"Alright. Hop in and we'll-"

"No. I don't want to have to come back here to get my car. Follow me to Anne's and we'll go from there."

Canton nodded. "Okay."

During the short drive to Randi's friend's house, Canton couldn't keep her mind clear. So many things swirled around and around. Seeing Randi in the condition she was in: bruises on her face and the seeming death of her soul, guilt settled over Canton once more. If only she'd been stronger, none of this would have happened to this precious woman. And, Robin wouldn't have had to die, as she wouldn't have stormed out of the house that morning, angry.

Pushing all of that aside, Canton waited as Randi climbed into her Jeep and got buckled in. "Ready?" Canton asked. Getting Randi's nod, she got the Jeep moving.

They drove in silence for a long while, both lost in their respective thoughts. Finally, Randi was startled back into the here and now when she realized they were in the woods. A slight flush kissed her cheeks as she remembered the last time she'd been there. "Why here?" she asked softly.

Canton smiled, also remembering their last visit to the woods. "I didn't just used to come here with women. I used to come here all the time to think and be alone." She glanced over at Randi. "I figured it would be a good place to talk."

Randi nodded. "Okay."

Canton parked - a few yards away from where she'd parked her Plymouth nearly twenty years before - and cut the engine. She unbuckled her seatbelt so she could turn and face Randi, as Randi did the same. "Talk to me."

Randi let out a heavy sigh, running her hands through her hair. "Where to start."

Canton swallowed hard, knowing full-well what she was about to offer. "Why don't you start at the beginning, Randi," she said softly, watching as her fingers toyed with the steering wheel. "Why you married him."

Randi studied Canton for a long moment then decided to proceed. "That last day we were together here," she began, indicating the woods around them, "was the day my life changed forever, Canton. My father saw us kissing in your car and when I got into the house, he nearly beat the life out of me and threatened to do the same to you if I ever saw you again."

Canton was stunned, her eyes wide as she stared at Randi. She couldn't speak so remained silent as Randi continued.

"I pushed you away. I had no choice and I wasn't strong enough to stand up to him." The tears began to come. "For crying out loud, I was graduating in a matter of weeks and would be gone from this place, and I still wasn't strong enough!" She wiped angrily at her eyes and snorted ruefully. "I'm still not strong enough."

Canton said nothing, instead reached inside her glove compartment to produce a small package of tissues. Randi took them with a grateful smile.

"Sorry. Anyway," she said, wiping her eyes, "I went off to college where I really began to excel and come alive. I loved school, Canton. I began to find my own identity when this guy came up to me and asked me out."

"Shannon," Canton said, a statement.

Randi nodded. "Shannon. Everything inside me screamed for me not to accept his marriage proposal, but I felt like I had the weight of the world on me. He did it in front of my parents. One look at my dad's face…"

"An offer you couldn't refuse."

"Basically." Randi blew her nose and got herself under control for a moment before she continued. She turned away from Canton, unable to look at her. "When you showed up at my door that night, I knew in my heart that I didn't want to marry Shannon, that I had no business being with him in any way: certainly not as his wife."

Canton stared off into the trees, listening to Randi's quiet words, even as her own self-hatred grew.

Suddenly, Randi's own anger grew and she climbed out of the Jeep, throwing her tissue as she spun back to the Jeep and Canton. "Why did you leave?" she demanded. "Why did you do that to me, Canton? I loved you! I wanted to spend my life with you! Why!?"

Canton hurried from the Jeep and around to Randi's side. "I'm sorry!" she exclaimed. "I didn't want to hurt you, Randi. I knew I would. I was young and stupid and…" her shoulders sagged as the air seemed to be knocked out of her. "And scared. I was scared."

An uneasy silence prevailed as both absorbed what had just happened and what had been revealed. Finally Randi spoke. "What were you scared of, Canton?"

Canton took a deep breath before turning to face Randi. "Loving you. Being enough for you. Not hurting you. Back in those days I had the world by the tail - and every woman I wanted. What if I did something so stupid you'd never be able to forgive me?"

"So you ran, then."

"Yes. I ran. I fully admit it, and it's something I'll regret and wonder about for the rest of my life." She looked unwaveringly into Randi's tormented eyes. "You were the love of my life, Randi. If I would have lost you due to my own stupidity, I would have lost everything."

"But didn't you? Lose me to your own stupidity, Canton?" Randi asked softly, her heart breaking for the broken woman who stood before her.

"Ironic, isn't it?" Canton smirked. "I feel so responsible for so many things because of the decision I made that morning, Randi. Foremost is your unhappiness in life." She took a deep breath, feeling as though a weight had been lifted, finally able to speak her heart after so many years. "Maybe we would have been happier than either of us had a right to dream about. Maybe we wouldn't have made it. Guess we'll never know."

"Don't carry this with you anymore, Canton," Randi said, stepping up to her. "It's been almost twenty years and we've both made our choices." She reached up and briefly cupped Canton's cheek. "Let it all go." She took Canton in a comforting hug, holding her close.

Canton clung to her like a drowning woman given a life rope. "How did we both end up with the lives that we have?" she asked into the hug.

"I don't know," Randi whispered, eyes closed as she rested her head against Canton's shoulder. "I guess without Shannon, I wouldn't have Blake. Everything works out how it's supposed to." She pulled away from Canton with a sigh. "At least I have to believe that."

Canton nodded, taking a step back from Randi in order to not pull her back against her. She longed to hold Randi. "He's a good-looking kid."

"Thank you. You know what's funny is, he's always reminded me of you. It's crazy. People say he looks like me, but I look at him and see you."

Canton grinned. "I may have my talents, but unfortunately getting you pregnant isn't one of them."

Randi grinned, looking down at the toe of her shoe as it kicked at a couple rocks. "Well, I did sleep with you and Shannon within a twenty-four hour period of time."

Canton laughed. "Does Shannon know? I mean, has he insisted on a paternity test?"

Randi grinned. "Not yet, but I'm sure that's coming next."

All mirth came to an abrupt end, reality hitting full force. "What are you going to do, Randi?" Canton asked softly, a hand on Randi's shoulder.

Randi blew out a breath. "Oh, I don't know." She crossed her arms over her chest, making her seem even smaller. "All I do know is that I don't want this anymore." She met Canton's concerned gaze. "I don't belong in this marriage, Canton and I have no idea what to do about it. For so many years I stayed in it for Blake's sake, and for the sake of my own fears. Now, he's grown and ready to be his own man. So now what? God only knows what this marriage would turn into without Blake for both of us to worry about."

"Undoubtedly it would fall apart eventually." Canton leaned back against the side of her Jeep.

Randi joined her. "There's so much I wanted to do with my life, Canton." She released a heavy sigh. "I feel like - other than being Blake's mom - I've wasted my life."

"Don't say that. Don't you get it, Randi?" Canton said, her voice impassioned with her rising emotions. She grabbed both of Randi's arms, holding tight as she got in her face. "You are still a young, beautiful and vibrant woman! You can do anything you want! You want to go back to school, do it! You want to be an attorney? Do it! You want to continue being Shannon's wife? Do it! The only thing holding you back is you, baby!"

Randi stared at Canton, touched by her impassioned words and shocked by the accidental use of the endearment Canton had always used with her. Randi looked her dead in the eye. "Can I do this, Canton? I mean, can I really do this?"

Canton was overcome by her deep emotion and connection to this woman, as well as a deep need to comfort and protect her. She cupped Randi's face and placed a gentle kiss on her lips. She smiled. "Yes. I believe in you and will help you in any way I can."

Randi grabbed Canton in another hug, her heart pounding and mind spinning. She suddenly felt like she could leap tall buildings in a single bound and could fly to the moon. Canton's strength was all she had ever needed to accomplish the unthinkable. She squeezed tightly before pulling away and giving Canton a winning smile.

"I want to do this."

"Then you will," Canton smiled back.

***

The cottage was filled with laughter, music and hammering as Canton, Randi, Blake and another of Canton's young recruits - a pretty young girl, Kerry who Blake had his eye on - finished the inside. The final nail was driven in and the four erupted in cheers.

"Finally!" Canton exclaimed, stepping to the center of the living room and looking around with a critical eye, hands on hips. "Now all she needs is some paint, furniture and appliances."

"This place is going to be gorgeous when it's done, Canton," Randi complimented, reaching back to readjust her ponytail, which had gotten messy with the hard work she'd put in today, the strands falling into her face.

Blake eyed Canton, Canton nodding with a wink. "Well guys, we're gonna head out for the day, if that's cool, Canton."

"Yeah, you guys did an amazing job this week. Go enjoy your weekend." Canton gave the two teens a hug.

Randi walked over to Blake. "I'm proud of you, son. You've really stepped up to the plate here."

Blake blushed and looked away, unable to meet the amused gaze of Kerry. "Thanks, Mom," he muttered.

Understanding dawning, Randi decided to make it worse. She grabbed her son by the face and began to rain noisy kisses all over, Canton and Kerry's laughter egging her on.

"Mom!" Blake tried to squirm away, but was only caught by seeking fingers, causing him to squeal like a little girl.

Randi was panting from her exertion but managed to grab the gaze of Kerry. She indicated with a nod of her head that the girl should take over, which Kerry happily did, tickling Blake from behind. Soon Canton joined in, Blake in tears as his laughter came in out of control bouts.

"You guys suck!" he cried out, finally managed to squirm away, the three women laughing. Blake's face was red from exertion and embarrassment, but he managed to grin along with them.

"Come on, Blake. Help me load the 4Runner before you take off," Randi said, walking over to him and giving him a quick one-armed hug. Arms wrapped around each other, they left the cottage.

"I can't believe you did that to me," he muttered, giving his mother a good-natured glare.

Randi grinned. "I'm going to give you a really solid piece of advice with women, Blake. They love a man who's not afraid to have fun and make fun of themselves." She slapped him playfully on the butt. "Trust me on that one."

"Is that why you're leaving dad? He's not so fun anymore?" Blake asked, all play finished.

Randi loaded the last of the wrapped food remnants she'd brought to the site into the back of the SUV before turning to him. "I don't know exactly what's going to happen there, Blake, but what I can tell you is that I haven't been happy for a really long time with your dad."

Blake nodded, kicking at some dirt at his feet. "I think I always kinda knew that."

"I have to be honest with you, sweetie. You're a grown man now and don't need me like you used to. Once you move out, there will be nothing there anymore. Your dad and I have based our lives around you," she took his chin gently in two fingers, forcing him to look at her, "which has been the great joy of my life, Blake. Being your mom has been the best thing I've ever done. My greatest accomplishment."

"Even better than if you'd earned your degree?" he asked, a slight smile on his face.

"Blake, you're better than a room full of degrees, and I wouldn't change it for the world." She grabbed him in a tight hug, never knowing until just that moment just how proud she was to be a mom. "I love you, Blakey, and don't you ever forget that."

He nodded, pulling away from the hug after a long moment. "I won't." He was about to walk away but stopped, turning to look at her. "I want you to be happy, Mom." With that he walked over to Kerry, who was waiting for him next to her car, Randi watching him go, the tears of a mother's pride in her eyes.

"Everything okay?" Canton asked, walking up beside Randi.

"I can't believe how fast he's grown up," Randi whispered.

Canton watched as the two teens pulled away, both sending a wave their way, which Canton and Randi returned. "I hear it goes fast."

"Did you ever want kids, Canton?" Randi asked, pulling herself together as she closed and locked up her 4Runner. Together, she and Canton walked back to the cottage.

"Yeah, I did. It just never worked out that way."

Randi bumped Canton with her hip. "You're not dead until you're six feet under."

Canton chuckled. "Yeah, yeah." Once inside the cottage, Canton turned to Randi. "In the mood to do some painting?"

"Sure! Bring it on, Dr. Landis."

"Ohh, a challenge! You got it, Miss O'Shea."

Randi didn't correct Canton at using her maiden name, instead liked the sound of coming from Canton's mouth. Soon they were both hooked up with paint, roller and brush. They started on opposite walls, wanting to get the paint done before the hardwood floors were to be installed the following Monday.

After awhile, Canton glanced over at Randi, deciding now was as good a time as any. "So, Blake and I were talking the other day."

"About?" Randi asked when Canton didn't continue.

"About him renting the cottage from me when it's finished."

Randi stopped painting and turned to look at Canton's back. "What?""

Canton continued to paint, figuring a more nonchalant approach was the best. She didn't want to get Mamma Bear's hackles to rise. "He came up to me and asked what my plans were for the cottage and it just went from there." She glanced at Randi over her shoulder, "he's ready for his own place, Randi."

"Says who?" Randi asked, hand on hip. "Says a woman who doesn't have any children?"

"No, says Blake," Canton replied softly, knowing Randi's panic was more about her son growing up than anything Canton had said or done.

Randi sighed, feeling like an ass. "I'm sorry. That was uncalled for."

"Don't worry about it, nothing to be sorry for."

"How do you feel about that, Canton? An eighteen year old boy moving into this beautiful place?"

"I see an eighteen year old man who is trying to start out in life. Besides," she said with a shit-eating grin, "I already told him if he trashes it you and me will take it out of his ass."

Randi's bark of laughter was a welcome sound. "I'll have to talk to Shannon about it, but how is he going to pay you rent? After you finish here, he's out of a job."

"Not necessarily. I've asked him to essentially be the groundskeeper here, as well as he can keep an eye on things since I'll be bouncing back and forth between here and New York for a bit until I get things settled there and the new offices opened here."

Randi stared at her, slack-jawed. "You're moving back here permanently?"

Canton hid her smile as she turned to face Randi. "Yes. It's time for me to establish some roots back home."

Overjoyed, Randi dropped her roller in the paint pan and hurried over to Canton, taking her in an enthusiastic hug, which was returned fully. After one last tight squeeze Randi pulled away, grinning at Canton like a fool. "Glad to hear it."

"So I gathered," Canton chuckled, turning back to her painting.

A moment later they could hear the sound of gravel crunching under tires as someone pulled up in front of the main house. Roller in hand, Canton stepped to the open window of the cottage to see who it was. She saw a black Ford Explorer parked and a man stepping up to the recently-rebuilt front porch.

"Who is it?" Randi asked, stepping up beside Canton. Her stomach fell. "It's Shannon." Randi felt like she would vomit as she set her roller down in the paint pan and wiped her hands on a towel before heading out into the warm day.

"Do you want me to leave?" Canton asked as Randi passed her.

"No. I want you to stay, Canton," Randi said sternly, setting her jaw and spine for a fight. She walked out to the space between the cottage and main house before calling Shannon's name. He turned at the sound and walked over to her.

"Blake said I'd find you here," he said, his voice tinged with bitterness.

"I'm helping Canton paint," Randi explained unnecessarily, as her clothing and skin was splattered with mocha color.

"Look," he began, a hand moving to the back of his neck as nerves began to settle in. "Things kind of got out of hand the other night."

"Kind of," Randi said, the bruises just now beginning to fade.

"For that I'm sorry." He managed to look her in the eye. "I mean that. I'm sorry and it shouldn't have happened."

Randi said nothing, only stood with her arms crossed over her chest, wondering where this would go and if it was the right time. She needed to finally make the cut; it was only fair to Shannon, to Blake and to herself.

"I want you to come home, Randi. I'm fine with your renewed friendship with this woman. I mean, you're a happily married woman now. The past is the past. I hardly think I have anything to fear from some lesbian." He stepped towards her, placing large hands on her shoulders.

She looked up at him, trying to hide her contempt. "Leave Canton out of this, Shannon. She doesn't have a thing to do with it and has just been an innocent bystander in my messes."

Shannon's brows fell. "What are you talking about?"

"I'm unhappy Shannon and have been for a long time. Long before Canton ever came back into the picture."

Shannon was struck dumb for a minute. "What? What are you saying? I thought you were happy."

"No, you thought you were happy and to hell with me. Honestly Shannon, I'm not even so sure how happy you've been."

Shannon glared over at the cottage and that woman he figured was in there. He dropped his hands from Randi's shoulders and dropped his voice, not wanting to be overheard. "What kind of whack job shit has that woman been feeding you?"

"Damn it!" Randi exploded, taking a step back from him. "Does nobody realize I have my own goddamn mind that I do occasionally use?"

Shannon stared at her, stunned. "Randi listen-"

"No!" She got in his face, fed up. "You listen to me. I don't want to play the happy housewife anymore and I want a divorce. Do you get that? It's what I want," she thumped her own chest to emphasize her point. "Me, Shannon. Not you, not my parents, not Canton Landis. Me." She took several deep breaths to try and calm herself down. "I want my own life back, Shannon and most importantly, I want me back. I've been living my life for everyone else. When is it my turn?"

Shannon didn't know what to say. He hadn't been expecting such an explosion and certainly hadn't expected the content of that explosion. Feeling numb and overwhelmed, he nodded and walked back to his car, starting it and driving away.

Randi was trembling, fear and relief mixing to create a near-shattered mass. It was only when she felt strong arms support her that she allowed herself to crumble, though she didn't cry. Where Shannon was concerned, she had no more tears left to shed. Finally she felt strong enough to stand on her own two feet and pulled out of the hug, scrubbing her face with her hands.

"What am I going to do?" she breathed.

"Take it a step at a time," Canton said softly, rubbing soothing circles on Randi's back.

"I can't undo this now, can I?" she asked, walking over to her 4Runner and sitting on the bumper.

"Do you want to?" Canton asked, standing nearby, offering her silent support.

Randi contemplated that question for a moment then finally shook her head, looking up at Canton. "No. I don't."

"Then we start at square one. Let's find you a job and a place to live."

"Okay," Randi nodded. She pushed to her feet, headed back towards the cottage, but stopped suddenly as a wave of realization crashed over her. "I just asked my husband for a divorce!" Her eyes grew wide, hands covering her mouth.

Canton nodded. "Yes you did."

"Oh my god!" Suddenly it felt like the weight of the world had been lifted, even as fear and uncertainty poured in through the cracks. "Oh my god."

***

Randi pulled open the kitchen cabinets and looked in them, mentally tallying how much would be going in there and if there would be enough room. She could hear Anne wandering around the two-bedroom apartment, inspecting the new digs of her best friend.

"Well, what do you think?" Randi asked, turning to face her friend, who had just shut the fridge door.

Anne scanned the empty kitchen one more time before facing the blonde. "Are you sure about this?"

"With everything in me," Randi said, no doubt in her voice or in her heart. Truth be told, she felt like a teenager again, getting her very own place for the first time. That wasn't too far off the mark, for that matter.

"It'll be so strange," Anne said, hands tucked into the back pockets of her shorts. "Not having you guys over as a couple anymore. Movie dates. That sort of thing."

"I know. It'll be strange for me, too. I've been a 'we' for nearly twenty years and suddenly I'll be an 'I'." She gave her friend a blinding smile. "It's for the best, Anne. I'm happy."

Anne walked over to Randi and pulled her into a tight hug. "Then I'm happy, too." They parted and toured the rest of the apartment. Standing in the middle of the bare master bedroom, Anne grinned. "Sooooo, what does the good doctor think of your new place?"

"She hasn't seen it yet, Anne," Randi said, warning in her voice. "This has nothing to do with her. Besides, she's back in New York for a month"

"Will she?" Anne asked, her voice becoming very serious.

"Will she, what?"

"Have something to do with this."

Randi sighed, walking over to the window and looking out over the park that was her bedroom view. "That ship has sailed, Anne," she said quietly. "For the best, I'm sure. I mean," she snorted ruefully, "it's not like I have much to offer her anymore. I'm not a cute seventeen year old girl anymore. I'm a woman who's almost thirty-seven who's been ridden hard and put back wet."

Anne was incredulous. "What? Says who?!" She walked over to Randi and turned her to face her. "Randi, half of the twenty-five year olds out there would kill to look like you now, let alone at thirty-seven. You're gorgeous, have a body that I hate you for and are fun, kind, smart, caring-"

"You can stop in three years," Randi joked, waving on the compliments.

Anne smiled. "Well, it's all true and much more. Don't count yourself as out of the game just yet. My gut tells me the game has just started for you, my friend."

***

Canton sat at her home office desk, finishing up some notes from her day at the office. She sat back, tossing her reading glasses to the desk top as she rubbed her eyes. It had been an incredibly long work week for her, extending her office hours to try and fit in all her patients that couldn't get in to see her during her visit back home to renovate. She'd slowly been allocating her patient roster to her partnering doctor in the practice, only keeping a select list that she'd fly back to New York to see once a month.

She reached for her coffee, sipping. As she did, she noticed the framed picture on the corner of the desk, the lamp causing a slight glare on the clean glass. She grabbed the picture, staring down at her own face and that of Robin. The picture had been snapped during their vacation in Scotland during their first year together, Birkhill Castle in the background, the moody Scottish skies above. Looking into their smiling faces - new love in the air - how could they have possibly known how tragically it would end, just three short years later?

"If only we'd known," she murmured, setting the picture on the desk where she could look at it. As she did, her gaze focused on Robin and her beautiful smile. Suddenly, her mind magically transposed the image of Randi's smiling face over Robin's, and something inside Canton clicked into place. It felt so right, her heart finding a peace that she'd never known.

Suddenly, Canton was on her feet and headed through the loft, counting up just how many relics of Robin were still scattered about the large space. Framed picture after framed picture were found, along with some old letters that were hidden in the drawer that once housed Robin's socks.

Canton gathered it all, placing it on the expensive Oriental rug in the living area, sitting cross-legged in front of it all. In all, she counted fourteen framed pictures, eleven letters and three of Robin's sweaters that Canton hadn't been able to get rid of. As she looked at it all she knew that, though she had loved Robin very much, keeping her things had been an elaborate cover-up for Canton's own feelings. She'd allowed all of it to keep her from having to feel for someone else. In that moment she realized that even Robin herself had been a cover up, helping Canton forget about Randi.

Randi.

Canton pushed up from the floor and headed back to the bedroom area, puling out her jewelry box. Opening the lid, she immediately found the single earring - a small diamond stud - and plucked it out. She brought it to her eyes to study the way the light glinted off the stone. She remembered that day so well. She and Randi had spent a lazy Saturday in Canton's apartment, making love, talking and laughing. When Canton had returned from dropping Randi off at home, she'd found the single stud in her bed. Even though Randi had asked about it, Canton had denied any knowledge of it, wanting to hold onto it.

She'd never let it go.

Canton sat on the end of her bed, the earring resting in her palm. As she stared down at it, she thought about Randi and how much she missed her. She had known that returning back home there would be a chance that she'd run into Randi, let alone rekindle their friendship; that had been unexpected. It didn't help knowing that Randi was leaving her husband. Canton knew she had to be careful and not let her mind go there or even remotely think Randi's recent decisions had a thing to do with her. The moment she thought that was the moment someone would get hurt; likely her.

Pocketing the earring, Canton walked back to her gathered possessions and stood over them, hands on hips as she tried to decide what to do. She knew in her heart that keeping Robin's things was not out of a sense of great loss or grief or not being able to let go. Well, it was a matter of not being able to let go, but it wasn't Robin that she couldn't let go of. Realizing it was incredibly unfair to Robin's memory, Canton searched until she found a box that would hold everything and packed it all away. As she was about to put the last framed picture away, Canton brought it to her lips, closing her eyes as she placed a lingering kiss on Robin's image.

"I love you, Robin," she whispered, then sealed the box. She walked to the bedroom area and placed Randi's earring on the highly-polished cherry wood of her dresser.

Disclaimers: Mine.

Sex: Of course, and lots of it! I wouldn't recommend reading this one at work, guys. That being so: there will be "gasp" a bit of hetero in here. Sorry guys, just needed for the storyline.

Warning: I do not give permission for anyone to re-post this story anywhere with any changes, such as: change in title, character names, storyline, etc. I will seek legal action.

If you'd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com.

First Time

by

Kim Pritekel

Part 6

Randi was cursing inside her head as she tried to fix the mistake she'd made in the register. She was being trained to work on the drive-thru today, and was having a hell of a time multi-tasking to the extent that the coffee shop drive-thru required: keeping up on cars waiting in line at the ordering station: taking money from the cars pulling up to the window for previous orders: giving back correct change: yelling out anything special that the customer wanted that wasn't already pre-sequenced in the system.

She had been working at the coffee shop for just under a month and had done thus far at the counter, but her training at the window was going frustratingly slow. Next she'd be trained in making drinks, which made her nervous at best. It had been years since she'd worked and she was struggling to get back into the daily grind of having a schedule again, other than picking Blake up from this or that.

She readjusted her headset as the drive-thru chime rang again, letting her know someone was at the ordering station. "Welcome to Wayne's Coffee World. What can I get for you today?"

"You have a really sexy voice," the woman on the other end said, startling Randi.

"Excuse me?" she said, pressing the headset closer to her ear.

"I said, you have a really sexy voice. Can I take you out to dinner?"

Randi listened, something niggling in her gut.

"I mean, really sexy. You should work for one of those 900 number lines."

A smile broke out on Randi's face. "Oh yeah?" she said, voice dropping to an intimate level. "Would you call and ask for me?"

"You know it. But until then, I'd like a mocha breve, heavy on the mocha."

"Wouldn't you rather heavy on the breve?"

A wonderful peel of laughter registered through Randi's earpiece. "That, too."

Randi was excited now, opening her window and stretching herself out, trying to see, though she could see nothing but the corner of the building. "Please pull forward," she said. Within moments Canton's black Jeep came into view, the driver grinning from ear to ear. "You are such a shit!" Randi exclaimed, leaning out the window again, arms opened as wide as she could.

Canton hopped out of her Jeep, accepting the tight hug, as awkward as it was. "Look at you!" she exclaimed. "A working woman, now!"

Randi looked down at her work polo and tapped the ball cap she wore with the shop's logo stitched onto it. "Hey, a girl's gotta make a living somehow. That is, until I finish my degree."

Canton was beside herself, eyes huge. "Randi!" she exclaimed, pulling her into another hug, which nearly pulled her out of the window totally. Both laughed as Randi squeezed back inside. "I'm gonna get you fired. Hey, dinner at my place tonight if you're free."

"No, no, dinner at my place," Randi said, grabbing a piece of paper and pen and quickly scribbling her address on it before handing it to Canton. "Seven-thirty."

Canton gave her a huge smile as she tucked the paper into her pocket. "I'm proud of you, Randi," she said softly, climbing back into her Jeep. "Now give me my total before I really do get you fired."

***

Randi checked the apartment, making sure everything was perfect and clean. She'd gotten off work at three, had class until six, then raced home to get the lasagna in the oven and then raced around like a mad woman cleaning and getting herself showered and ready. In truth, she had no idea what she was worried about, after all: it was just Canton. All the same, she wanted everything to be perfect.

At seven-thirty on the nose there was a knock at the door. Randi pushed a few strands of hair back from her face and walked to the door, taking a moment to make sure her heart was steady before opening it. When she did, she greeted Canton with a welcoming smile, moving aside for her to enter.

"For you, madam," Canton said, offering Randi a bottle of wine and large bouquet of flowers. "For the new place," she explained, indicating the flowers.

"Oh, Canton," Randi breathed, inhaling the wonderful fragrance of the mixed bouquet. "Thank you!" She gave Canton a tight one-armed hug, the wine and flowers hugged in her other arm. "Come on in. Let me put these in some water and I'll give you the nickel tour, which should take about exactly five seconds."

Canton smiled, following Randi into the small kitchen with attached dining area. The building was old, wonderfully elaborate molding along the top edge of the doors and wainscoting along the walls, which were painted classic white. The kitchen cabinets were ornate in design but simple in function with white appliances. Randi had broken the white monotony with red toaster oven and coffee maker, and accent towels.

Randi quickly found a crystal vase, which she filled with room-temp water, setting the flowers and vase in the middle of the small table-for-four that was in the dining area. "Ready?" she asked, turning bright eyes to Canton.

"Lead the way." Canton followed Randi, listening as Randi explained what each room was for and all the fun little perks, including a fireplace in the living room. What caught her eye and ear the most, however was Randi, herself. She was so full of energy and light, the way she had been at seventeen. Canton found herself getting lost in the green eyes more than once, so drawn to the woman Randi had become, and whom Canton suspected was yet to come.

"So, what do you think?" Randi asked, standing in the middle of the guest bedroom - which was set up for Blake, should he want to spend the night - totally unaware of Canton's perusal of her, as opposed to her apartment.

"I think it's beautiful," Canton said, a genuine smile gracing her lips.

"Thank you," Randi said quietly, somewhere inside understanding the deeper meaning of the assessment. She led them back to the kitchen. "Sit while I get dinner served up."

Switching their roles, Canton poured them both a glass of wine as Randi served dinner. The food smelled ridiculously good, making Canton's stomach growl. She knew had to make a mean lasagna, but by the smells of Randi's, it was blown clear out of the water! Randi got herself settled to Canton's left, making sure they both had everything they needed.

"This looks absolutely amazing, Randi," Canton complimented, closing her eyes as she inhaled the fragrance of one of her favorite Italian dishes.

"I'm so glad," Randi smiled, placing her napkin on her lap as she buttered her piece of garlic bread. "I could live off Italian food quite nicely for the rest of my life. Oh, with a bit of mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie thrown in."

Canton grinned. "Interesting combination." They both began to eat until finally Canton spoke again. "So tell me: what's going on in the life of Randi."

"God, what isn't going on in the life of Randi?" the blonde smirked, taking a long sip of her wine before shoveling more food in her mouth. Once she had it swallowed, she sat back in her chair. "I don't' get to eat like this very often anymore. Honestly Canton, I don't know how the hell I did this when I was in college the first time."

"It's called being eighteen years old with much more stamina," Canton chuckled, stabbing greens in her salad.

Randi laughed. "Amen! But, either way, I've taken on two classes - all I can handle right now - and am working about twenty-five hours at the coffee shop. Together, it leaves me with zero time for much else."

"Well, then I feel very honored to have dinner with you tonight," Canton said, raising her glass in toast.

Randi clinked her glass against Canton's. "I'm just so happy you're back. It's amazing I was able to miss you, considering."

Canton gave her a sweet smile. "I missed you, too."

"How did it go? What's your next move?"

"It went very well, and my next move is to sign leasing agreements with Re/Max for my new office location."

Randi stopped, bite halfway to her mouth. "Really? You've already found a place?"

"Yes, ma'am. While I was gone I had an agent scouting out a good location for my new practice, and I think we've found the perfect one. I was with her there today looking it over. It's in a great spot, right on the corner of 5th and Lincoln. Nice-size offices, two filing rooms and it's already wired for what I'll need, as it used to be a dentists' office before."

"That's wonderful!" Randi raised her glass in a new toast. "To new beginnings."

Canton smiled, recognizing her own toast from weeks before. "To new beginnings."

Canton insisted on helping Randi clean up the dinner dishes, regardless of how hard Randi tried to get her to sit down and relax. Deciding to give it up, the two worked side by side washing, rinsing and drying the dishes.

"The only thing about this place is I wish it had a dishwasher," Randi lamented, sticking another plate in the sink of hot rinse water.

Canton grinned. "Isn't it amazing how the smallest things can spoil us?"

"Isn't that the truth."

"Do you miss your house? All the fun little toys in it?" Canton asked, putting a stack of dried dishes in the cabinet where Randi had shown her they go.

"In some ways. I miss the space and my yard. But honestly, that's about it. I like it here; it's a good place to be for now."

"What's the long-term plan?" Canton grabbed the bouquet of silverware and dried each piece.

Randi snorted with a smile. "Make it through the rest of this semester." She grinned over at Canton who returned it. "I'm glad I started this way: just taking the two classes during the summer course. It's harder on some ways because the semester is so much shorter, but it's shorter."

"And, I bet nothing transferred, did it?"

"Nope." Randi tackled the glass baking pan next, grabbing a scrubbing pad for the job. "All my credits were more than ten years old, so nadda."

"Oh man, that sucks!'

"Tell me about it! When I was in school before, I was taking eighteen credit hours a semester, so I had quite a few classes stacked up." She tried to snap her fingers, but the wet soapy water her hands had been in for the past ten minutes caused a dull soapy splash, which caught Canton right in the face. Randi looked at her with wide, surprised eyes. "I'm sorry."

Canton wiped her face with the towel then looked at Randi with a raised brow and clear intent in her eyes.

"Hey now, it was an accident," Randi said, slowly taking a step back from Canton, who had grabbed one of the glasses she'd just dried and dunked it into the sink of rinse water, her gaze never leaving Randi. "Canton, whatever you're thinking of doing-"

Randi squealed as Canton grabbed her by the front of her shirt and tugged her towards her, dumping the entire half-filled glass over Randi's head. "Oops!" Canton exclaimed, her eyes twinkling and a devilish grin on her face.

Randi gasped as water cascaded down her face and shirt. She was just glad it was warm and not cold water. "Oh, you are so in for it!"

The war was on as both women grabbed anything they could: water, leftover salad from the bowl that had yet to be put into the fridge. The coup de grace was when Randi grabbed a can of Reddi Whip from her fridge, literally sitting on Canton on the kitchen floor as she squirted the creamy white goop into Canton's hair, both giggling like school girls. Canton managed to wrestle the can away from her, grabbing the front of Randi's shirt and squirting the whipped cream down into her bra before squishing it in with her hand on the front of Randi's shirt.

Randi gasped, the goop cold and absolutely disgusting feeling. "I can't believe you did that!" Without thinking, Randi whipped off her shirt and grabbed Canton's face, forcing it into the whipped cream cushion that had formed on and between her breasts.

"Mmm! Yum, yum, yum…" Canton hummed as she began to playfully feast on the Reddi Whip.

Randi's smile fell off her face as she realized their position: she was straddling Canton's lap, arms wrapped around the brunette's head and Canton's arms wrapped around her body, face buried in her breasts. What had started out in play was quickly causing a slow burn between Randi's legs.

Canton felt it, too, as her movements began to slow and she realized that rather than eating the whipped cream, she had begun to push it aside with her face, her tongue wanting to taste the flesh beneath.

Randi gasped as she felt that tongue stray into her bra, just barely lapping across the edge of her nipple, already hard from the cold whipped cream. She pressed on Canton's head, needing her mouth on her.

Encouraged and not thinking, Canton brought up a hand, pushing Randi's bra up over her breasts, giving her full access. She could hear soft whimpers above her, all of which fed her core of need and desire for Randi. She took in as much of Randi's left breast as she could, using her tongue to flick over the rigid tip, her own soft moan escaping. It finally hit her what she was doing when she felt Randi's hips begin to rock against her.

Randi was thrust back into reality from her sensual haze at the same time, realization dawning painfully clear. She looked down at Canton, only to meet horrified blue eyes. Slowly they disengaged, Randi getting to unsteady legs then helping Canton to hers. "Um," Randi said, her hands trembling as she tugged her bra into place. "I think we both need a shower," she said quietly, indicating the disgusting state both were in. "Towels are-"

"No, you go first. It's your place."

Relieved, as Randi needed to compose herself, she headed out of the room and to the bathroom, leaving an unsteady Canton in the kitchen.

"My god," Canton breathed, burying her face in her hands for a moment, grimacing when she realized she'd just essentially done a face plant in whipped cream. Her heart was still racing as she began to clean up the mess they'd made.

Randi stood in the shower stall, letting the water flow over her naked body, hoping it would not only rinse away the whipped cream, but also her guilt. How could she have let that happen? How could she have done that to Canton, teased her like that and put her in a position like that? She felt terrible and like she was a terrible person.

"A fucking tease," she whispered, washing her hair - twice - and then her body. But, god that felt amazing…. Nobody had touched Randi other than Shannon since the last time Randi and Canton had made love. Shannon had never been able touch her in the same way or make her feel remotely the way Canton did. The ironic things was, regardless of how unhappy Randi and Shannon's marriage was, Shannon had always insisted on a regularly active sex life, which had long ago become a chore for Randi. She never liked his hands on her, never liked his body to touch hers.

Then there was Canton. In those few brief moments on the kitchen floor, Canton had made Randi feel more than Shannon ever had in all their years of marriage combined. "Shit."

As Randi quickly dressed and got towels and a pair of shorts and t-shirt for Canton, Randi wondered if the brunette would even still be there. Had she taken off? Angry and hurt with Randi for what she'd started? Knowing Canton, Randi knew she likely blamed herself. With a heavy sigh, Randi finally padded out to the kitchen to meet her fate.

Canton was on her hands and knees finishing up the last bit of towel mopping she was doing. The kitchen was spotless, including the dishes they'd been washing when the water and food fight had started. Randi couldn't believe it.

"You did not have to clean everything up, Canton. I can't believe you did all that," Randi said, looking around in awe.

"Yes I did. I helped make the mess so there was no reason why I shouldn't clean it up," Canton said, getting to her feet. She rinsed off the towel she'd been using then slapped it onto the faucet so it could dry.

"Well, I disagree, but thank you very much."

"No problem." Canton smiled, but it was guarded.

"I left towels and clean clothes in the bathroom for you. If you'll get those off, I'll throw them into the washing machine."

"You don't have to-"

"Please? It's the least I can do, Canton. Considering, it was my whipped cream that made the mess." She gave Canton a playful smile, trying to break some of the tension.

"Well, in that case, I'll let ya."

Randi stood in the small laundry room down the hall from her apartment, preparing the washer for Canton's clothing, which was an absolute mess. She threw her own clothing in with it. For a moment she got a bit of a thrill, knowing their clothing would be washed together. Pushing that thought out of her head, she brought back what had happened half an hour before.

Her body still tingled from the memory of Canton's mouth on her, a shiver running down her spine and ending up squarely between her legs. She rested her hands on the washing machine, placing her weight on it as she closed her eyes, taking several deep breaths. What she really wanted to do was march right back into her apartment, grab Canton and finish what they'd started.

Even so, something inside her knew that was a really, really bad idea for so many reasons. One of which, she was still a married woman, no matter what the living arrangements were. She had plans to head down to the courthouse and file proper papers, but hadn't yet, fear stopping her: once she did that, it was final and there was no going back. Perhaps she was holding onto the word "married" like some sort of warped version of a binky.

Pushing off the washing machine, she headed back to her apartment, where Canton was already waiting for her, sitting on the couch in the borrowed t-shirt and shorts. Her hair was wrapped in a towel. She was flipping through one of Randi's text books, which was lying on the coffee table with her laptop.

"Clothes are being washed as we speak," Randi said, her voice light and friendly, determined to bring the evening back to an even keel.

Canton looked up at her and smiled, closing the text book and placing it back on the table. "I appreciate that. My Jeep would be smelling like Reddi Whip forever."

Randi chuckled. "Guess there are worse things it could smell like, but I imagine that sweet smell would get old quick."

Canton was having a hard time keeping her composure, sadness creeping over her. She was terrified that she had taking things too far and had ruined their burgeoning friendship. "Randi," she began, her voice soft as she looked down at her hands which lay in her lap.

"No," Randi said, walking over to where Canton sat. She reached down at grabbed one of her hands, tugging until Canton was on her feet and into a warm hug. Canton was unsure, which made her stiff. "Don't do that," Randi whispered into the hug. "Hold me."

Canton squeezed her eyes shut as allowed herself to fully embrace, no only Randi, but also the moment of forgiveness. "I'm sorry," she whispered. "It won't happen again."

Don't say that. Randi rested her head on Canton's shoulder, rubbing soothing patterns on her back. "There's no need to be sorry."

They stood that way for nearly twenty minutes, just absorbing the presence of the other woman, reveling in the familiarity and safety the other provided. Canton rested her cheek against the top of Randi's head, her fingers combing through the soft blonde strands. She could feel Randi's warmth and just wanted to lose herself in it.

Holding in a contented sigh, Randi murmured into the hug. "I have dessert, too if you want it."

Canton chuckled. "I kinda already did."

That set them both off in peels of laughter, the tension fully broken.

***

Randi held her pen poised over the pad, waiting. When nothing was forthcoming, she glanced up at Shannon, who sat across from her at the kitchen table in the house they'd shared for many years. "Shannon?" she said, drawing his attention from where it had been focused out the kitchen window. He looked at her. "What do you want out of the family room?"

Shannon sighed, tossing the pencil he'd been playing with onto the table, amidst the piles of papers and records that documented their life together. "I don't care," he sighed.

Randi hid her irritation as best she could, sitting back in her chair and setting the pen down. "Shannon, please don't start. We've got to get these lists compiled for the hearing next week."

Shannon studied her for a long moment. "Did you ever love me?" he asked, voice quiet, almost like a little boy's.

"Don't do this now," Randi moaned, her face in her hands.

"What? I'm sorry if I can't be cold about all this."

"I'm not being cold, Shannon. How can you not feel that it was time and that we were beating a dead horse?"

"Because I still love you and I think you're going through something. I don't know what, but something. Menopause or whatever. Something."

Randi's anger was reaching the boiling point now, and she had no desire to sit there and fight. She pushed back from the table, gathering all the records she'd brought with her and shoving them back into the file folder they'd come from. "Let me know when you're ready to sit down like adults and work these details out. Until then, I'm going home."

Shannon watched her go, plopping back against his chair with a heavy sigh.

***

Laughter rang through the first level of Canton's newly renovated house. In the elegance of the formal dining room, Canton hosted a dinner - prepared with the help of Randi - to Randi, Blake and his new girlfriend, Kerry. The food was amazing and company was even better. The small dinner party was to reveal the new house, which had been completely restored to the glory of the original 1846 structure, replete with antique furnishings from the time period. Walking into Canton's home was walking back in time.

"And so," Blake laughed, the women surrounding him already laughing as he continued his story, "I'm hanging there," he explained, raising her arm over his head like he's dangling from the beam he was describing, "I'm like, 'Hello! Anyone down there?'" The table burst into fresh laughter, Kerry sending adorning eyes to him, which was not missed by Randi or Canton.

"We offered to help!" Kerry exclaimed, sending new laughter to Blake's flushed cheeks, but everyone knew it was all in good humor.

Canton raised her glass to Kerry and Blake. "Well, you two-" she turned to Randi, "three, were absolutely integral to making my homes come to life." Glasses clinked all around, followed by "Here, here!"

"Well, this has been a blast ladies, but Kerry and I have a nine o'clock film to catch," Blake said, scooting back from the table, ready to make his leave.

"We are not leaving without helping clean up, Blake," Kerry insisted, also scooting back, but began to gather plates as she did.

"I so like her," Randi stage-whispered to Canton, Blake rolling his eyes.

"So do I. She's definitely good wife stock," Canton played along.

"I agree! I can easily imagine her - baby in tow - finishing up with dinner and making Blakey do the dishes," Randi said, staring off into a seen future.

"What a wonderful idea!" Canton quickly agreed. Both burst into laughter as Blake and Kerry were each turning seven shades of red. "Go to your movie, you two!" Canton exclaimed, waving the teens off. "We'll get this."

Randi pointed a finger at them both. "This time!"

"Okay, okay," Blake muttered, shepherding Kerry out of the house.

Canton and Randi stood side by side, watching them go. Canton placed an arm around Randi's waist, Randi resting her head against Canton's shoulder. "Well, dear," Canton joked, "I think our little boy is growing up."

"Sigh," Randi returned, both chuckling. "Come on, you. Let's clean up."

An hour later, they sat in front of a gorgeous fire in the rock fireplace in the sitting room. Randi was curled up in a wingback drinking a mug of coffee with a shot of Grand Marnier while Canton reclined on the chaise lounge, her mug in hand. Randi stared into the flames, a soft smile curling her lips. Canton studied the graceful calm of Randi's face.

"What are you thinking about?" Canton asked softly, sipping from her coffee.

Randi's eyes never left the fire, her smile broadening slightly. "Just how at peace I feel." She met Canton's gaze, the blue turned gray in the firelight. "I finally feel like I'm where I'm supposed to be for the first time in my life. I'm just very proud of myself."

"And you should be. You're finally living your life for you, and it's made that wonderful light inside you that much brighter. It's very beautiful, Randi." Canton couldn't take her eyes of the blonde, her words coming from her heart.

"Thank you, Canton,' Randi whispered. "I think you are, too."

***

"Hey girl!" Tammy, the Night Manager exclaimed in her usual exuberant manner. "What time do you need to be outta here?"

"By six-thirty," Randi answered, in the middle of creating the best caramel macchiato that she could. "I got plans." Her huge grin made Tammy fan herself. "Oh, stop!" she laughed. "I'm helping a friend get her new office ready for business Monday morning." Tammy still fanned herself, making Randi roll her eyes.

***

"Careful!" Canton exclaimed, guiding the delivery men as they moved in the last of the equipment into the offices. It had been a long day and she was exhausted.

"Where does this one go, ma'am?" the big, burly delivery man asked.

"Exam room 3."

***

"Thank you and come again to Wayne's Coffee World," Randi smiled, handing her latest customer their drink. She'd been appointed to making drinks today, and she loved being there at the drink station. She loved creating new menu items, and it brought her back to her roots in at more kitchen-like setting. Besides, it was a hell of a lot better than working the drive-thru window! A quick glance at the clock showed her that she only had ten minutes left on her shift. Randi couldn't hide her grin as she started on the next order.

***

Shannon sat in his car, his heart beating a million miles per minute. He sat in front of the coffee shop that he'd gotten a cup of coffee from every day on his way to work for the entire five years that it had been open. His fingers grazed across the smoothness of the weight that sat in his lap. It was almost a decadent smoothness: cool to the touch and exciting to the spirit.

After a moment of silent prayer, Shannon tucked away his new toy and opened his door, stepping out into the warm July day. He took a surreptitious look around as he made his way towards the shop, pushing inside with a jingle of warning bells above the door. He saw the surprised look on Randi's face and suddenly, it was all worth it.

***

Canton glanced at the clock she'd just hung in exam room 1, concern building when she saw that it was after eight p.m. Randi was due an hour and a half earlier, and it just didn't seem like her to be so late without calling. Canton had stopped herself from calling, not wanting to interrupt Randi at work in case something had come up and the blonde had to work late. Even still, something in her gut was niggling at her.

Suddenly, her cell phone chirped to life. Canton hurtled the exam bed to get to the main office where her phone sat on the receptionist's desk. Expecting it to be Randi, she was surprised - and even more concerned - to see it was Blake.

"Hello?" he said, bringing the small phone to her ear.

"Are you near a TV?" Blake asked, his voice quiet and filled with fear.

"No, I'm at the office. What's wrong, Blake? You sound like you're about to cry."

"You might want to get home, Canton. It's mom," he urged.

***

Randi was deeply shaken, left alone in the coffee shop with Shannon. She couldn't take her eyes off the 9mm that sat in his lap. He'd allowed the rest of the co-workers to leave, which she was grateful for, but now it was just the two of them, the walls of the shop swirling with the red and blue lights of the police cars that filled the parking lot. She garnered her courage, finally meeting his gaze.

"What do you want with me, Shannon?" she asked, her voice forcibly soft.

Shannon sat at one of the tables, away from the large plate-glass windows. He sipped the caramel breve Randi had made for him. "This is really good," he complimented.

Randi said nothing, just stared at her hands, which fidgeted with a cardboard sleeve that slipped onto cups to help keep customers from getting burned. Her heart was pounding and she wasn't sure what to do. Two hours before, Shannon had entered the shop like any other customer. Once he'd reached the register, he'd asked for Randi, who'd been called to wait on him. He would have been her last customer before leaving to go meet Canton at her new offices.

"What can I get you, Shannon?" she asked, waiting impatiently for his order. He'd given her the order for his caramel breve and then had brandished his gun, something she had no idea he owned.

Within an hour's time, he'd allowed the other employees and customers to leave, the cops already arrived on scene. In truth, he wasn't sure what he planned to do, other than the fact that he just couldn't face the fact that they'd be meeting in court within a few days, and at that point, all ties to her would be gone and things would be put into motion for the final outcome of divorce. It just wasn't something he could face.

Shannon knew there was a question on the table for him to answer and instead of voicing his response, he held the paper cup in his hands, swirling the liquid inside around and around. "Randi," he said, voice soft as he was lost in memory. "Do you remember that old café I used to work in at school?"

"Yes Shannon, I do."

Shannon smiled at the memory bouncing around in his mind. "Remember that 'special blend' coffee old Ray used to pawn off? I tried to get you to drink that forever but you wouldn't. It wasn't until you got pregnant with Blake that you started to crave the smell of coffee." He smiled, leaning back in his chair. "I remember you yelling down from the loft in that piece of crap apartment we lived in for awhile: Shannon, make me some coffee to snort!"

Even Randi had to smile at that, remembering all too well.

"I never did tell you, but Ray's 'secret blend' was nothing more than Folgers and Swiss Miss hot chocolate powder mix combined." Shannon grinned up at Randi. "Funny, huh?"

"Shannon," Randi said softly, moving around until she was sitting across from him. "Why are you doing all this? I'm not worth this." She eyed the gun then her gaze moved up to his troubled eyes. "Let it go. Let me go before you ruin your life."

Shannon studied her for a moment before his face distorted into rage as she shoved his chair back hard enough to knock it over. He grabbed Randi by the hair, forcing her head back. "Do not presume to tell me what to do," he growled, the barrel of the gun resting under her chin.

***

Canton's eyes were glued to the news broadcast of the hostage situation on local news. Blake sat next to her, Kerry on the other side of him, both trying to give him support, even as Canton's heart was screaming for her to do something. A helicopter perspective was played across the television coverage, showing the small army of police and fire vehicles that littered the parking lot of the coffee shop and surroundings streets. The people at those vehicles looked like ants on the ground.

"It's going to be okay," Kerry murmured, her hand buried in Blake's hair. Canton's own hand was placed protectively on his back, but her heart was in her throat, tears threatening to fall.

Suddenly a reporter was on the screen, an earpiece pressed to her ear. "We have more information regarding the hostage situation at the Wayne's Coffee World coffee shop today," the young reporter explained, looking down at notes she held in her hand. "The man has been identified as thirty-eight year old Shannon Garland Lehey, who has been holding his wife, Randi Lynn Lehey hostage at her place of work for the past two and a half hours. Authorities have tried to use negation tactics, but Lehey has yet to acknowledge them."

***

"You are a stupid woman," Shannon growled, holding Randi against him, the gun now pointing at her temple. "Call him."

"Who?" she whispered, heart pounding and fear trickling sweat down her spine and between her breasts.

"Who do you think!" Shannon raged. "Our son!" He shoved Randi's cell phone into her hand, the gun never wavering.

***

Canton's hand covered her mouth as she watched the footage, unable to look away. Blake and Kerry were in the same position, Kerry crying out startled when Blake's cell phone chirped to life. Blake hurried to grab it from where it sat on Canton's end table at the other side of the room. His face paled when he saw who it was from.

"It's my dad," he breathed. He brought the phone to his ear. "Hello?"

***

"Hello, son," Shannon said into the phone, his eyes never leaving Randi, who he'd pushed to an arm's length away. "Your mother wanted to say goodbye."

***

Blake felt his stomach catch. "Where is she going, Dad?" Blake asked, dread creeping down his spine.

***

Shannon glanced over at Randi, who was softly crying. "We're going on a journey, son." Shannon thrust the phone towards Randi. "Tell him goodbye," he growled, eyes hard and filled with hatred.

***

"Mom?" Blake was on his feet, nearly yelling now. "Mom?"

Canton was also on her feet, her gaze bouncing back and forth between Blake on the phone and the TV, the reporter's words becoming lost as her fear took over. She was trying desperately not to think the worst.

***

"I love you Blake," Randi whispered into the phone, her gaze locked on Shannon's gun as it was pointed directly at her face. A sob was torn from her throat. "Please no, Shannon," she begged. "Please don't do this."

***

Blake was opening crying now. "Mom? Dad, don't do it! Dad!"

At the exact time a loud bang could be heard over Blake's phone, the reporter on the screen cried out, "Shots have been fired! Shots have been fired!"

Canton felt her world go cold.

Disclaimers: Mine.

Sex: Of course, and lots of it! I wouldn't recommend reading this one at work, guys. That being so: there will be "gasp" a bit of hetero in here. Sorry guys, just needed for the storyline.

Warning: I do not give permission for anyone to re-post this story anywhere with any changes, such as: change in title, character names, storyline, etc. I will seek legal action.

If you'd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com .

First Time

by

Kim Pritekel

Part 7

Canton was numb, sitting on the couch staring blankly into space, Kerry's hand rubbing comforting circles on her back. Blake had only been gone for a few minutes, leaving Kerry to stay with Canton .

“It could all still be okay,” Kerry murmured, leaning forward to look into Canton 's downturned face. “Hang in there.”

Canton 's mind was whirring, dread and fear like she'd never known beginning to overwhelm her numb state. “Oh my god,” she whispered, burying her face in her hands.

***

Kerry's car – which Blake had borrowed – came to a screeching halt on the street in front of the coffee shop. He didn't even bother closing the car door as he bolted into the melee of emergency personnel and news crews. Like a runner in an obstacle course, Blake dodged people and emergency vehicles, hurdling over caution tape.

“You can't be in here!” a policeman shouted, trying to grab Blake's arm.

“That's my mother!” he yelled, pushing his way inside the shop. Once he was able to take in the scene before him, he saw one body lying on the floor, covered by a cloth, blood already beginning to soak through. Blake swallowed his nausea down, taking a step back. Sure hands caught him before he could trip. Turning, a sob was ripped from his throat when he saw his mother, arm bandaged and blood-soaked, but alive.

“It's okay, baby,” she whispered, holding onto him as tightly as he was holding onto her. The hug was making her arm throb even more, but she didn't care. “I'm okay, baby,” she murmured, placing a comforting kiss to her son's cheek. “I'm okay.”

Blake pulled away, swiping at his tear-streaked face with her forearm. “What happened? Did dad…”

Randi glanced down at Shannon 's covered body, quickly turning away. “The police had a shot and they had to take it.”

Blake felt rage coursing through him, but he wasn't sure where to direct it first. “Those bastards!” he shouted, glaring at the police around him.

“Blake, no,” Randi exclaimed, grabbing him by the shoulders. She knew she was in a tough position: she didn't want Blake to hate the police but she didn't want him to hate his father, either, as everyone knew that Shannon had made up his mind, his intent very clear as his finger had inched back on that trigger. It had been a tough decision, as Shannon 's gun could very well have gone off during the moment of impact, or the sharp shooter could have missed and hit Randi instead. In the end, the means had to justify the end.

Blake rubbed the back of his neck with his hand, so much like his father. “They killed him.”

“They were protecting me, Blake,” Randi said, trying to keep her own emotions down. She was still deeply shaken, and in truth, wanted nothing more than to run to Canton , where she always felt safe.

“Ma'am, we just need to ask you a few questions before we let you go, as well as set up a time that's good for you in the near future to come down to the station,” one of the detectives said, feeling guilty about interrupting a moment between relieved son and mother.

“Alright, Detective,” Randi agreed, taking Blake by the hand and following the suited man to a table to talk.

***

Kerry sat on the couch, legs together and jiggling as she waited. She'd received a text from Blake twenty minutes before that read simply: WE'RE ON OUR WAY. Canton , for her part was like a caged tiger. She was not typically a praying type, but she had sent more pleading words up to the heavens tonight than she had in her entire life. She and Kerry hadn’t spoken much, both too far absorbed in their own internal images of horror and fear.

Finally, tires crunching gravel outside perked both their ears up, and had them both running to the front door. Canton stopped on the top step of the porch, Kerry running past her and into Blake's arms. Canton watched as Randi stepped out of her 4Runner, Blake having driven Kerry's car home. Randi's gaze immediately found Canton 's, tears welling as she slammed the car door shut and ran.

Canton has no idea how she managed to get down those stairs without falling and breaking her neck, as her gaze never left Randi. The two met in a hard collision between the cars and the stairs, both clinging to the other, finally able to breathe. Canton held on, trying desperately to pull Randi even closer, one hand on her back the other on the back of her head, holding her to her.

Randi felt like for a moment she could let go of all the horrifying events of the night; as long as Canton was there, she was fine. She felt a hand on her back and turned to see Kerry standing next to her. Reluctantly she let go of Canton and turned to accept Kerry's hug.

“I'm so glad you're okay, Randi,” Kerry murmured, squeezing tight before letting her go.

“Thank you, sweetie,” Randi said, squeezing Kerry's arm in appreciation.

“Are you okay, Mom? Do you want me to take you home?” Blake asked, stepping up beside Kerry, a protective arm slung over her shoulders.

“No,” Randi said, looking back over at Canton .

“She's going to stay here tonight, Blake,” Canton said, stepping up beside Randi, easily reading her need, which matched her own.

“Okay. I think that's a great idea. I'll just be over there,” he said, pointing to the cottage he was renting. “If you need anything, anything at all, don't hesitate to ask.” Blake gave his mother a long, lingering hug then a kiss on the cheek. “I love you.”

“I love you, too Blake.” Randi smiled up at him, so proud of the man he was becoming as she cupped his slightly bristled cheek. “If you need me, son, you know where I'll be.” She studied his face for a long moment, knowing that likely the events of the night hadn't kicked in quite yet. Blake – and her, for that matter – had a lot to sift through: not only was Shannon dead, but he'd tried to kill Randi in the process. As much as she was struggling with the fact that her baby boy was sexually active, she was grateful Kerry would be with him tonight. She was a good girl, and Randi couldn't ask for better.

Randi watched her son and his girlfriend walk away, disappearing into the night as they walked the short distance to the cottage. She sighed as she felt a hand on her lower back. Turning, she met Canton 's gaze, matching her tired smile.

“Let's go in,” Canton suggested, turning towards the house.

As soon as the door was closed and locked behind them, Randi grabbed Canton in another hug, this one lasting nearly a full half hour. She rested her head against Canton 's shoulder, her body tucked as closely into Canton 's as she can get. She needed the closeness, needed the feel of Canton 's body against hers, needed to know that she was truly okay and survived the night.

Canton was grateful, her hand gently running through Randi's hair, which was stiff in some places from dried blood, cast off from Shannon 's shooting. “Can I get you anything?” she asked softly. “Food? Something to drink?”

“A shower,” Randi sighed, loathe to let go even as she did. She looked up into Canton 's face. “I need a shower and sleep. I'm so exhausted.”

“That, I can do.”

Together they turned off all the lights and made sure the house was locked up, then Canton led Randi by the hand up the stairs and down the long hall that led to her bedroom. She glanced quickly at Randi to make sure she was okay with the destination. Randi gave her a smile and encouraging squeeze of her hand.

“I want you close to me tonight,” Canton explained unnecessarily.

Once inside the beautiful room, decorated in the same nineteenth century style of the rest of the house, Canton showed Randi where anything she'd need was stored, as well as gave her a t-shirt and shorts to change into. The irony was lost on neither of them, considering they had repeated this very same thing – on opposite sides – mere weeks before.

An hour later, Canton and Randi lay in the massive four-poster that was Canton 's bed. As soon as they'd laid down, Randi had scooted over until she lay curled up against Canton , mindful of her wounded arm. They lay in silence for a long while, adjusting to the feel of the other woman.

“It's been awhile, huh?” Canton said, her voice a quiet hush in the large bedroom.

“Yeah. Long while.” Randi readjusted her head on Canton 's shoulder, needing to be as close as she could. It felt wonderful. Her arm ached, but she pushed it out of her mind, instead wanting to focus on the fact that she was alive. “I really thought he was going to do it,” she said after a long moment.

Canton said nothing, just listened. She knew it was a matter of time before Randi would begin to talk, which she had to think was a good thing. She combing her fingers through Randi's drying hair, placing a kiss atop the golden crown.

“You should have seen the look in his eyes, Canton .” Randi didn't even have to close her eyes to see the paranoid hatred in Shannon 's gaze, his intent clear, even without the gun thrust into her face.

“Why do you think he chose that route, Randi?” Canton asked softly.

“A lot of reasons: I think he knew he had lost for good, and just couldn't take that. I think there was an element of humiliation for him that was too much to bear. Shannon was a very proud man, but not always in the best of ways.”

“Do you think he loved you? I mean, was he happy?”

Randi was silent for a long time as she contemplated that question. Finally she sighed, lifting her head to rest on an upturned palm, looking down at Canton . “I don't believe just one person can be unhappy, Canton . I really don't. I think Shannon liked to play games, I think he liked to convince those in his life – and perhaps himself – that he was. At the end of the day,” she shook her head, “he couldn't have treated me the way he did and been happy.”

Canton studied Randi's face for a long moment, forgetting what she was thinking and had been about to say. She brought a hand up, running her fingertips along Randi's jaw, feeling the softness of her skin. “I really thought I'd lost you tonight,” she whispered.

Randi smiled. “I thought you'd lost me, too.” As Randi stared down at Canton , she knew there was nothing more natural than to be in her house, in her bed and in her arms. She knew in that moment that she loved Canton , had loved her since that first night at the party, and had never stopped. Even so, she knew she had far too much baggage right now. She gently caressed the side of Canton 's face then lay back down. “Let's sleep.”

Canton hugged her tight, her heart still pounding as she thought for sure Randi was going to kiss her. As much as she would have loved that, she knew they both had some demons to fight first.

Canton nearly jumped out of her skin when she heard someone scream. Eyes wide and chest heaving, she looked around the dark bedroom, barely able to make out Randi's curled up figure lying in the bed next to her, her body thrashing and legs scissoring under the sheet.

“No!” Randi cried in her sleep, tears beginning to stream down her cheeks. She rolled from one side to the other side, crying out as she rolled over on her wounded arm, which thrust her back into reality. Panting and still crying, she looked around, still seeing her dream images.

“Randi!” Canton cried, getting to her knees and crawling over to the blonde, slowly bringing her hands up to cup a pale face. “Baby, it's Canton . Come back to me, baby.” Randi looked at her, eyes wide with terror. “Baby,” Canton whispered, not sure what to do, she began to rain kisses all over Randi's face, whispering words of endearment and love between each one.

“ Canton ?” Randi whispered, blinking several times to make sure she wasn't still dreaming.

“Yes,” Canton whispered back, brushing strands of blonde off of Randi's sweat-soaked forehead. “It's okay.” She lowered her head again, but this time to make sure Randi was looking at her and was awake.

As Randi stared into Canton 's eyes, she felt an overwhelming need. Before she could think or stop herself, she caught Canton 's lips with her own, bringing up a hand to hold Canton in place. The kiss remained lips only, but was soft and beautiful: a kiss of gratitude and a kiss of promise. She pulled away, resting her forehead against Canton 's. “Thank you for being here. I love you.”

Canton 's heart was pounding, the kiss and words reaching in and twining around her heart. She placed another soft, lingering kiss to Randi's lips. “I love you, too.” She brushed Randi's cheek with her fingertips. “I'll always be here.”

Randi pulled her into a painfully tight hug, a soft whimper of desperation escaping her lips. She kissed Canton again, the kiss hard and demanding, almost animalistic, her hands grabbing at Canton 's t-shirt, the sound of ripping material startling Canton out of the kiss.

“Wait,” she breathed, her chest heaving as she broke from the frantic kiss. “Wait!” She grabbed Randi's wrists, getting her attention. “What are you doing?”

“I need you, damn it!” Randi exclaimed, breaking free from Canton 's loose grasp and working at her shirt again, finally tugging it over Canton 's head and pushing her back to the mattress. “I need you.” She began to lay a fiery trail of kisses down Canton 's neck, nipping at the skin as she went.

Canton was torn between a world of absolute pleasure and a world of guilt, knowing Randi could very well regret what she was doing, once in a better state of mind. Her eyes closed and a gasp was pulled from her when she felt a hot mouth on her left breast, Randi's hands frantically tugging at Canton 's silk boxers, growling in frustration as she couldn't tug them down fast enough. Instead, she shoved her hand down them, fingers finding Canton 's wetness with a sensual groan.

“Wait,” Canton said again, Randi's searching and rough fingers pulling her out of her pleasure-laced haze. She grabbed Randi's wrist again, pulling it out of her boxers. “Randi, stop.”

“No!” Randi growled, trying to shove her hand back down, even as her mouth returned to a rigid nipple.

“Stop!”

Canton 's sharp voice caught Randi's attention, snapping her out of her own haze. She froze for a moment, realization dawning on her. “Oh god,” she whispered, slowly pulling her hand out of Canton's underwear then pulling away from Canton altogether. “I'm so sorry,” she said, a sob escaping her throat and her eyes filling. “I'm so sorry, Canton .”

“Shhh,” Canton cooed, reaching for her, even as Randi tried to elude her touch. “No, come here.” She pulled Randi to her until Randi lay on top of her, head tucked under her chin. Randi's tears came soon after, a flood washing Canton 's naked skin, Canton holding her close. “Cry it out, baby,” she whispered, her own eyes filling, able to sense the deep pain and confusion that racked Randi's emotional state.

Randi couldn't stop crying, her body shaking with the strength of her release, Canton 's warm skin through her own t-shirt a huge comfort. She felt that warmth and decided she wanted more of it. She pulled away suddenly, startling Canton and whisked her t-shirt over her head, tossing it to the foot of the bed. She returned to her previous position, the feel of Canton 's naked warmth against her own warming her to the core, like a baby and its mother.

Canton was shocked by the move, and though in some ways it tortured her no end, another part of her understood the reason behind it. She held Randi close, letting her cry, her hands running all over the smoothness of Randi's naked back, letting Randi know of the human contact.

After nearly forty-five minutes, Randi calmed, snuggling in even closer to Canton . “I can't believe my son's father is dead,” she whispered, her fingers gently caressing Canton 's shoulder. “God, how is Blake going to survive this?”

“One day at a time. I imagine it'll hit him tomorrow or soon after.”

Randi nodded. “I'm sure. They weren't extremely close – Blake had always been closer to me. Well, as close as he'd allow himself to be to his parents, that is.”

Canton smiled. “I think we all go through that at one time or other.”

“ Canton ?”

“Yeah?”

“Am I a bad person? Do I deserve this? Did I kill Shannon by marrying him?” The tears began again.

“Oh, baby. No,” Canton whispered, placing a kiss on Randi's head. “God, no. He made his own choices, and they had nothing to do with you.” She brought a hand up, combing her fingers through Randi's hair.

Randi was quiet for a long while, digesting all Canton had said. She knew in her heart that she was right, but still struggled with the events inside; even as her arm ached unmercifully. She shut off her mind for a moment, allowing her physicality to take over: she could feel Canton 's breasts against her upper chest, the soft fullness comforting and sensuous at the same time. She sighed, flattening her hand on Canton 's flat stomach, able to feel the twitch of the muscle beneath the soft skin. Pulling herself out of her fugue, she spoke. “Do you remember when you were little, Canton ?” she said, her voice soft and wistful. “You were little and had all these crazy ideas of where your life would end up.”

“Yes,” Canton admitted, closing her eyes as she tried to push away the feeling of Randi touching her. She couldn't allow herself to get lost in that. Randi needed her and needed her to be there for her, not there for her own needs.

“What did you wish for, Canton ?” Randi whispered, her gaze watching as her fingertips trailed up along Canton 's ribs then down the centerline of her stomach. “What did you want when you were a little girl?”

Canton's soothing circles on Randi's back were slowly turning into caresses, her fingers trailing over the soft skin and jagged structure up and down Randi's spine, moving of their own accord. “I thought I wanted to build things, create new structures; I loved how much architecture made sense. There was no guessing, no changing: it was or it wasn't. And,” she whispered, her fingernails running up into the back of Randi's hair, giving the blonde chills. “I wanted to make a life with someone who understood me.”

“Did you find that in New York ?” Randi asked, drawn to the warmth of Canton 's neck.

“No,” Canton murmured, eyes sliding closed as she felt a soft kissed placed at the base of her neck then another on the side, just under her jaw.

“Too bad,” Randi whispered, placing another kiss as her hand roamed up along Canton 's ribs, thumb brushing dangerously close to the rounded underside of Canton 's right breast. “Me neither.”

Canton 's head fell to the side a bit, giving Randi's mouth more access. “Guess we're both screwed,” she whispered, her hand finding its way to the back of Randi's head.

“Depends,” Randi murmured, working her way up to Canton 's mouth.

“On what?” Canton asked, her hands running down Randi's back, flirting with the subtle rise of her behind.

“On when you think it's too late.” She was careful not to lean on her wounded arm as she deepened the kiss, knowing in her heart that only Canton could make her feel whole again – or for the first time.

Feeling Randi's flinch as she put slight weight on her arm, Canton carefully pushed them over so Randi lay on her back, her arm free of stress.

The part of Canton that had worried before at Randi's need for her touch dwindled, the larger part of her now needing Randi's touch, instead. She continued the kiss, one of her hands coming up to caress the side of Randi's face. She could feel their naked breasts pressed together, which heightened her excitement all the more. She moved one of her thighs, insinuated it between Randi's, which opened for her, both sighing into the kiss.

“It's been so long,” Randi murmured into the kiss, her arms reaching up around Canton's neck, adjusting her hips so she and Canton fit perfectly together.

“Far too long,” Canton agreed, moving from Randi's mouth to her neck, laying a trail along her neck and down to her collarbones, tasting the skin there before licking a line down between Randi's breasts.

“I don't have the body of a seventeen year old anymore,” Randi reminded, a part of her worried that Canton wouldn't find the mother she'd become as attractive as the girl she'd been.

“Thank god,” Canton responding, finding one of Randi's breasts with her tongue.

Randi's amused grin was quickly wiped from her face, replaced with closed eyes and an opened mouth. “ Canton ,” she whimpered, hands finding the back of Canton 's head.

Canton took Randi's rigid nipple into her mouth, her mind swept back twenty years and endless life experiences before. Though she could still see the girl of so long ago in her mind's eye, she was firmly with the mature woman she was making love to now. Her other hand came up to cup Randi's other breast as she continued to suckle the first, laving it with her tongue and deep passion.

Randi's own mind was traveling to another time: What if she'd never married? What if she and Canton had remained together and had been for the past twenty years? What if Blake was the child they'd shared together; had together; raised together? What if she hadn't witnessed the killing of Blake's father mere hours before?

Randi's emotions rose like a tsunami, crashing over her with exacting fierceness. The tears swept her away from the love Canton had for her, away from the moment she'd chosen with the woman she'd loved her entire life..

Canton stopped everything she was doing, stunned by the sudden turn of events. She pulled away from Randi, not sure what to do. “Randi?” she said, reaching out to touch Randi's face, only to have her touch pushed away. “I'm sorry.” She scooted away from her, frightened and deeply concerned. “What's wrong?”

Randi sat up, bringing her hands up to swipe at her tears, only for more to fall. “I can't do this,” she sobbed, pushing up from the bed and disappearing into the darkness of the bedroom.

Canton 's heart was pounding, part from her previous sexual excitement, part from her current fear. She looked into the shadows, hoping desperately that Randi would reappear, though she knew she wouldn't. Finally, she fell back onto the mattress, staring up into the dark ceiling.

***

Morning came and found Canton sitting in her kitchen alone, sipping a cup of coffee. She had made herself breakfast, though it sat untouched. She stared off into the distance, eyes red-rimmed from lack of sleep and random crying spells. She was startled to hear a knock on her front screen door, the big door long ago opened to let in the early morning breeze.

“Come in!” she called out, not moving a muscle. “Don't slam the door!”

The door squeaked as it was opened and then slammed shut. A penitent Blake stepping into view. He helped himself to a cup of coffee then settled across from Canton , blue eyes studying her. “You look like shit,” he said, voice unusually soft.

“Thank you,” she said, looking down at her mug, bringing it up to sip only to grimace, as it was cold. She pushed up from the chair and walked over to the coffee maker, pouring herself a fresh cup after dumping the old in the sink. “You hungry?”

“Not particularly,” Blake said, sipping from his coffee. “Where's my mom?”

“Left,” Canton explained simply, sitting back across from him, pushing her plate away. “Where's Kerry?”

“Left,” Blake said, sipping from his own mug. “Had to work.”

Canton nodded in understanding. She wished she had such a simple explanation to where Randi had gone and why. Instead, she made herself leave her own early-morning regret playground and focused on Blake and what he must be going through. “How are you doing?” she asked, her voice softening.

Blake stared into the black depths of his coffee for a long moment before responding. Finally he sighed, meeting blue eyes, curiously close the same shade as his own. “I have a lot of questions,” he said quietly. “A lot of questions. This kind of thing doesn't just happen, Canton . Does it? Some guy who was on the straight and narrow his whole life doesn't just suddenly go fucking crazy and hold his wife hostage. Does he?”

Canton sighed, no more filled with answers than he was. “I don't know, Blake. I never knew your dad.”

“But you knew my mom. Right? You knew her before she met my dad. What was she like? How did it happen?”

Canton felt her blood go cold. She wanted nothing more than to say ask your mom, kid, but knew she couldn't. She had the answers to his questions, but how much did she dare tell him? Should she tell him about the fact that she and his mother nearly had sex – twice – the night before? Not likely.

Canton sipped from her coffee and sat back in her chair, her gaze meeting his. She wanted to be honest and open with him, even as she fudged a few details: for Randi's sake. “Your mom and I were close, Blake. We met during our senior year in high school and we were close.”

“How close?” Blake pressed, pushing his mug of coffee aside. “My dad mentioned a girl my mom had been sleeping with .” He eyed her, daring her to deny his unsaid accusation.

Canton felt her palms beginning to sweat: caught. Even so, she knew she could soften the blow, as she knew Blake was trying to elude to the fact that her and Randi's relationship had interrupted the marriage of his parents. “Your dad was right. I met your mom when we were both seventeen years old. The last time I saw your mom – before I came back into town to renovate – was a few weeks before our high school graduation.”

“Even though she stayed here last night,” Blake said, pushing away from the table, nearly knocking his chair over backwards.

Canton knew she had to be careful, as he was dead right, but she knew it could be devastating to let him know that. “She left early this morning, Blake. She's not here.”

Blake stared at her, nostrils flaring with his uncertain anger. He wasn't sure who he was angry with, but it was coming out in Canton 's kitchen, as it was the only tangible element available to him. “Whatever,” he spat, storming out of the house, the screen door slamming behind him.

Canton buried her head in her hands as he heard the engine of a car turn over, tired peeling out of the gravel yard.

********************

1994:

HOME VIDEO –

Randi lays in bed, her rounded belly swells beneath the thin white blanket that covers her gowned-body. Her head lay on the paper-covered pillow, eyes closed as she took deep breaths in, trying not to breathe out too fast.

“The doctor said Randi's dilated eight centimeters,” a disembodied voice said. Shannon 's disembodies voice. “How are you doing, honey?”

“I want it out,” Randi whined, panting as another contraction hit her. “Oh god,” she gasped, hands grasping her over-sized belly.

The picture suddenly changed in a dizzying downward motion of the image and finally going black as the camera was turned off.

********************

Present Day:

Randi sat, rooted to the spot as the picture on the DVD player went blue as the footage ended. Long ago Shannon has transferred the VHS from the early 90's to DVD, as he'd loved to tinker with electronics and modern filmmaking equipment. Either way, Randi had watched the moments before she'd given birth to Blake, nothing more coming after what had been labeled as the 8 Centimeter Tape until after Blake had been born.

She had been sitting on the couch all day in the house she'd shared with Shannon and Blake, going through old video, which had stopped promptly after Blake's tenth birthday. It seemed so much more had stopped, other than just pictures and film of family events.

The sun had been peeking in through the slatted blinds for more than an hour, but Randi's exhaustion reached a level far beyond human tiredness: she was soul tired, heart tired and life confused. She pushed up from the leather couch that sat in the family room, headed to the kitchen to warm her cup of coffee when she heard a knock at the door. A glance at the clock told her it was just after seven-thirty.

Anne stood on the other side of the door, her eyes puffy and red as she fell into Randi's silent arms. They stood that way for a long time, neither sure what to say, or really needing to say anything. What had happened is what had happened: nothing need be said. At length, Randi invited her in, closing the door behind them.

“Can I get you some coffee?” she asked, her voice cold, zombie-like. She wasn't entirely sure what was keeping her going, but whatever it was, it kept her upright.

“Sure,” Anne said, keeping a careful eye on Randi as she took a seat at the kitchen table that she knew very well. For the first time in her friendship with Randi, she wasn't sure what to say. What does one say in a situation like this? Gee, sorry your husband whacked himself right after he tried to whack you. Got any sugar for my coffee? She accepted the coffee that was placed before her, as well as the sugar bowl and canister of creamer.

Randi sat across from her, her hands cupped around the fresh cup she'd poured for herself. She stared at her oldest friend with dead eyes: partly from lack of sleep and partly from shock and truths, which had begun to set in.

“How are you?” Anne asked quietly.

Randi shrugged. “I'm still here,” she murmured, nodding to the bandage wrapped around her bicep. “Guess that's a lot, considering.”

“Sure,” Anne said, a forced smile on her lips. She cupped her hands around the hot cup of coffee, but in truth, she didn't want it. She was in deep shock from what she'd heard on the news, and then later from Randi's own lips over the phone as she drove to Canton 's house the night before. Anne would be lying if she said she wasn't shocked at the destination, but felt it wasn't her place to say anything or ask questions. That being said, she was surprised when she'd called Blake's phone – Randi's turned off – to find out Randi had gone home.

“I was just watching some old videos,” Randi said, staring off into a place Anne couldn't join her in. “Reminiscing, I guess.”

“I guess I just want to know how you are. What are you thinking and where do you go from here?”

Randi was silent for a long moment, contemplating Anne's words. “How I am,” she repeated, her voice hollow and quiet. “I'm sad. I'm confused and I'm relieved.” She finally met Anne's gaze, which nearly had Anne in tears, as there was no life in the recently-alive green eyes. “How should I be? Should I be the grieving widow? Sad that my husband is dead? Sad that he tried to kill me and take our son emotionally with him by putting Blake on the phone? Making him listen as his father was shot through the heart by the police? Should I grieve for him, Anne? Should I be elated? Should I be tarred and feathered, tattooed with a big red letter ‘A' on my chest?”

Anne was stunned, not sure what to say. “Randi, I was just asking-“

“I know you were, Anne, and you're asking the same questions everyone else will ask, or at least will be thinking. What should I say? You were there: you've been there since day one: which explanation matches the best? Shannon and I meeting you guys to play cards, or Shannon and I fighting, him hitting me and me taking it? Me thinking it was my lot in life as I'd cheated on him once, and so deserved whatever he had to deal out, because he likely knew.”

Anne was stunned, never seeing her friend like she was at the moment. “Randi-“

“What, Anne? Didn't you know that I fucked Canton the night before I got pregnant with Blake? I'm sure I told you that part, too.” Randi leaned forward, eyes boring into Anne, almost the eyes of a crazy woman. “To be honest, I think Shannon always knew somehow. I think he's been trying to be a ghost this entire marriage, Anne.” Randi sipped from her coffee, chuckling lightly. “The ghost of Canton .”

“Where you stayed last night,” Anne said softly, a statement.

Randi met her gaze, nodding slowly. “Yes. I wanted her, Anne. I wanted her to love me to make me forget everything.” She laughed bitterly, pushing her coffee cup away. “God, how stupid of me.”

Anne moved from her chair to the one next to Randi's. Despite Randi's bitter bravado, she could see she was about to fall apart. “What happened, Randi?”

“I can't forget,” Randi sobbed, falling into her friend's arms. “I can't. I can't forget that I had a life before, and I can't forget how it ended.”

Anne held her tight, eyes closed as she fought her own emotions. “Maybe you're not meant to, Randi,” she offered, caressing Randi's back. “Maybe you're not meant to.”

“I pushed him to do it.”

“No, sweetie, you didn't.” Anne didn't try and fight Randi's words anymore than that, as she knew in her gut that at this point, she wouldn't be able to. Randi was grieving, and nothing anyone said would help or assuage or perceived guilt or part in what had happened. “You are loved, Randi,” she said instead. “You are very loved.”

“I don't deserve to be,” Randi whispered into the hug, her tears coming yet again full force. She was so tired of crying.

Disclaimers: Mine.

Sex: Of course, and lots of it! I wouldn't recommend reading this one at work, guys. That being so: there will be "gasp" a bit of hetero in here. Sorry guys, just needed for the storyline.

Warning: I do not give permission for anyone to re-post this story anywhere with any changes, such as: change in title, character names, storyline, etc. I will seek legal action.

If you'd like to tell me what a wonderful writer I am or that I royally suck, feel free at: XenaNut@hotmail.com .

First Time

by

Kim Pritekel

Part 8 - conclusion

Blake sorted through the box of pictures, tossing anything with his father in it to the “trash” pile. The floor of the family room, where he sat cross-legged on the floor, was covered in papers, photo alums and separated pictures.

“What are you doing?” Randi asked, carrying a laundry basket filled with papers from the bedroom she'd shared with Shannon downstairs.

“Getting rid of him,” Blake explained, not bothering look up at his mother as another picture went sailing to the general area where the “trash” pile was.

Randi set the basket down and walked over to her son, brows drawn in concern. “Honey,” she said softly, squatting down next to him. “Don't throw your father away. What he did was wrong and he paid a heavy price for it, but he was still your dad and he loved you.”

Blake looked up at her with red-rimmed eyes. “He didn't love anyone but himself, Mom.” To prove his determination, he took the picture he held in his hands – Shannon holding a 7 year old Blake on his lap – and ripped it in two, tossing the pieces.

It broke Randi's heart. “Listen,” she said, settling in next to him, looking over the mountain of old pictures, many she hadn't seen in many years. “we need to talk about something.” She paused, trying to think of the best way to broach the subject. “I got a call from the hospital this morning and they're … finished … with your dad and are releasing him into my custody. We need to decide what we want to do. What kind of funeral do you want-“

Blake stared at her, incredulous. “Are you kidding me? You want to give that son-of-a-bitch a nice send off after what he did to you? Do you know how humiliating it is to know my dad had to be shot down like a dog by the police to stop him from killing my mother? I say bury the fucker in a paupers grave out in a field somewhere and forget about him.”

“Blake,” Randi said, warning in her voice, “Don't talk about your father that way.” In truth, she agreed with her son, but knew she didn't have the option to state her views out loud. Someday Blake would hate her if she did. “I know right now you're angry and hurting, but he was your loving dad a lot longer than he was … well, what he became.”

Blake calmed himself down. In some part of himself he knew his mother was right, but the biggest part of him hated the bastard. “I wonder if anyone would even come,” he said, tortured blue eyes meeting Randi's. “If we had a service.”

“I thought about that, too,” Randi admitted with a heavy sigh. “But, whatever decision we make, just understand that it's very final.” She met his gaze for a long moment then gave him a one-armed hug and a kiss on the cheek. She was pushing to her feet when someone rang the doorbell. Randi's smile was shy when she saw Canton standing on the other side. “Hi. Thanks for coming.”

“I'm glad you called,” Canton said, pulling open the screen door as she stepped into the house.

“Blake is here and we've already begun going through things.”

“I'm sorry, Randi,” Canton said softly, wanting to reach out and hug Randi, but truly wasn't sure what she should do. She hadn't seen Randi since she'd left early in the morning two days before. She'd left a couple voice messages for Randi, but decided to let Randi do what she needed to do, and give her space, no matter how torturous it had been for Canton .

Randi took a step towards Canton and took her in a warm embrace, a sigh escaping her lips as she was engulfed in all that was Canton . As she pulled away from the hug, she reached up and placed a soft, lingering kiss on Canton 's lips. She wanted her to know that despite the craziness of the other night, she had meant what she'd said. Canton gave her a loving, understanding smile and followed her in deeper into the house.

“Blake, look who's here,” Randi announced, leading Canton through the family room and towards the stairs.

Blake looked up from where he was shoving the discarded pictures into a black trash bag. “Hey, Canton ,” he said with a small smile and wave. “I got that fence mended yesterday.”

“I saw that. You did a great job, kiddo.”

“Thanks.” Blake got to his feet, feeling mighty proud of himself. The work of tending to Canton 's land was hard and labor-intensive, but he was finding that he loved it. “Hey guys, Wayne 's Coffee World reopened so I was gonna go get something. You want anything?” He looked from his mother to Canton and back.

Randi felt a ripple of aged fear pass down her spine at the mention of her employer, but quickly shrugged it off. “Yeah, black coffee.”

“You're so boring,” Blake muttered then turned his questioning gaze to Canton .

“Caramel macchiato, extra caramel and low-fat milk,” she ordered.

Blake raised a dark brow. “Um, isn't that kind of redundant? Extra sugar and less milk fat?” Canton just grinned. Blake shook his head and tugged his father's keys out of his pocket. Shannon 's Ford Explorer had been towed to the house that morning and Randi had bestowed the keys and title to her son.

Randi led Canton into the master bedroom, which was a disaster area as she went through every nook and cranny. Canton felt a little strange and uncomfortable being in the room Randi had shared with Shannon : they had slept in the same bed and had sex in that very bed. She knew it would childish to feel jealousy poke at her, so tried her best to push it down.

“How's Blake doing?” she asked, giving herself something else to concentrate on. “And, where do you want me?”

“If you wouldn't mind sorting through that mess of papers on the bed. They're all our tax information from the past ten years. I honestly don't know why I've kept it for so long. Anyway,” Randi continued, beginning to sort through clothing in Shannon 's closet, “If you can put the pages together for corresponding years and put them into stacks. As for Blake, he's struggling. He's got a lot of anger inside him right now. I guess that's pretty much to be expected, though.” Randi grew silent for a moment as she sorted through Shannon 's clothing, tossing out what she knew was old and worn and in all honesty, should have been thrown out years before. “I'm sorry about the other night, Canton ,” she finally managed to say, feeling foolish.

“There's nothing to be sorry for, Randi,” Canton said from her place on the bed.

Randi sighed, turning to face Canton , her back leaning against the frame of the closet door. “I know, but I do. I was all over the place that night and it wasn't right. I'm sure you probably thought I had lost my mind.” She crossed her arms protectively over her chest.

Canton stood and walked over to her, stopping a foot away. “Not at all. I thought you were a woman who had just gone through hell and were trying to find an emotional balance.”

Randi snorted ruefully. “I'm still not sure that I have.”

“And you probably won't for quite awhile.” She brought up a hand to give one of Randi's shoulders a squeeze, which caught her attention on Randi's arm. “How's this doing?” she asked, gently tapping the outer edge of the tape.

“I think it's healing pretty well.” Randi gave her a twinkling-eyed grin. “Wanna check it out, Doctor?”

Canton smirked. “Sure. Shall I send the bill here or to the apartment?” She carefully pulled the tape away from Randi's skin then removed the gauze covering. The wound beneath was still an angry red gash, but she could tell it was beginning to heal nicely. “Good thing you didn't need stitches.”

“Why?”

“Well, where this is at, you would have had a bitch of a time not tearing them open.” She re-bandaged the wound. “You should be able to remove this covering within a couple days.”

“Good. It's hot and itches,” Randi whined like a child.

Canton grinned. “Yeah, but the itching is just gonna get worse so be a good girl and keep your hands off of it.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Randi looked up at Canton with shy eyes. “I've missed you the past couple days. I got your messages, I just knew I wasn't in any frame of mind to be around or speak to. I've been trying to work through some things in my head while going through things here. I haven't even been home since it all happened.”

“I've missed you, too,” Canton said softly, bringing up a hand to pick out a lint ball from Randi's hair. “And, I thought as much and figured it would be best to give you your space.”

Randi grabbed Canton 's hand, holding it in both of hers for a long moment, looking at the long beautiful fingers, a fingertip tracing the veins and tendons that ran along the back of her hand. “You have such beautiful hands,” she commented softly. “They just look so capable and strong, yet I know how gentle they can be.”

Canton could feel her heart rate picking up just from the mere closeness of Randi, let alone the touch of her hands. “Thank you.”

Randi looked up into Canton 's face, stepping into her personal space as she leaned up, placing a soft kiss on Canton 's full lips. She had intended to give her a simple token of her love and appreciation, but once she felt those lips under hers, she knew that small, simple kiss wouldn't be enough. She reached her hands up and tangled them in Canton 's hair, pulling her down further to deepen the kiss.

Canton was caught up in a few different emotions: the first was bliss, as she'd been dying to kiss Randi properly since she'd arrived at the house thirty minutes before. Second, it was strange kissing Randi in the bedroom she'd shared with Shannon ; it made her feel bad in a good sort of way. She wrapped her arms around Randi, pulling her in closer until their bodies were pressed together, her tongue granted entry into Randi's mouth.

In the distance the front door could be heard opening and feet pounding up the stairs. Canton began to pull away from Randi, but not soon enough before Blake appeared in the bedroom doorway, smile frozen on his face and drinks held in his hands. Accusing eyes moved from his mother to Canton and then back, his jaw setting as he handed both coffee cups to her.

“I get it,” he muttered, turning and storming back the way he'd come.

“Blake!” Randi called out, shoving the cups into Canton 's hands before sprinting after him. “Blake, stop!” she yelled out, hurrying faster as she heard the front door slam. Out of breath and her heart pounding in her chest, she was able to catch him before he climbed into the SUV. “Wait, stop.”

He turned on her, face red with fury. “And to think I thought she was a friend!” he boomed. “I bet she was counting the days until those divorce papers were signed. I bet you both were!”

“Blake, it wasn't like that-“

“I bet Canton is glad dad is dead! Now she can move in-“

The slap happened so quickly it startled them both into stunned silence. Randi got her bearings back first, a trembling hand raising to her mouth, wide eyes focused on the red mark she'd made on her son's cheek.

Blake took a deep breath, his anger turning to hurt, even though he knew he had deserved that. He looked at her, unsure what to do or say next.

“I think we need to talk,” Randi said softly, turning to head back to the house, hoping he'd follow. She sat on the porch swing and waited for him to join her, which he did. She clasped her hands in her lap and tried to think of where to begin. “I do owe you the truth, Blake, but it's not what you think it is. I had intended to tell you but hadn't seen a reason to yet because nothing has been carved in stone.”

“Are you sleeping with her?” he asked, looking out over the carefully-manicured yard that had been his father's pride and joy.

How on earth do I answer this? Randi knew she had to be completely honest, but she also knew she had to be careful in that honesty and tell him what he needed to know to understand. Finally she shook her head. “No.”

“You said the two of you knew each other before, right?”

“Yes. When I was seventeen years old, I was at a party with Anne. Canton tried to pick me up at the party but I turned her down.” A small smile grazed Randi's lips at the memory. “She kept trying until finally I gave in.” She looked at her son. “ Canton and I had a relationship during our senior year and I loved her very much.”

Blake's head was spinning. Never in a million years would he have marked his mother as a dyke. “What happened then?”

“Grandpa Ben saw Canton and I kissing once he didn't like it.” Though Blake wasn't close to her dad, she didn't want him to think badly of him, either. “Things got ugly, and I wasn't allowed to see Canton again. I went off to college and met your dad.”

“Did you ever love him?” Blake asked, voice cold.

Randi thought about that and how to answer that for a long moment. “Yes. At one time I did. Your dad and I had a good relationship for a time, but unfortunately, that didn't last. Canton had nothing to do with my leaving your dad, Blake. Whether she had come back into town or not, I would have left.”

Blake took some time to digest what he'd just been told and seen. Finally, he sighed and looked at her. “Are you a lesbian, Mom?”

“I so hate labels,” Randi sighed, then turned to her son. “I'm a woman who loves another woman. If that makes me a lesbian, then I guess that's what I am.”

“So, you still love Canton, then,” he said, a statement.

“I never stopped. She was the proverbial ‘one that got away', Blake. Love is a crazy, fickle thing that you can't control. No more than you could control how you feel about Kerry.”

Blake nodded, understanding on a small level, but getting where his mother was going with the comparison. “Is it okay with you if I take off for a bit? I need to think.”

“Of course, son.” Randi leaned over and placed a kiss on his cheek, brushing a few dark strands of hair off his forehead.

Blake stood and began to walk away but stopped, turning back to look at her. “You named me after her in the only way you could, didn't you?” he asked softly.

“Yes. That's why your middle name is Canton.” He nodded then walked away, leaving Randi to gently glide back and forth on the porch swing, looking out into the beautiful day.

“So, does he hate me?” Canton asked softly, stepping out onto the porch as she watched Blake drive away.

Randi sighed then shook her head. “No. I don't think he knows what to think about a lot of things right now, but hating you isn't one of them.”

Canton sat down next to Randi, handing her cup of coffee to her and sipping her own, the swing jiggling a bit with the action. “This situation has turned everything inside out, hasn't it?”

“Yes.” She looked at Canton, a sad smile on her face. “If you would have asked me six months ago what my life would be like today, never in a million years could I have come up with any of this.”

Canton returned the smile. “Me, too. I come here to restore my grandparents' old ranch house and look what happens.” They shared a fond smile as Canton stretched her arm out along the back of the swing, Randi resting her head against Canton's shoulder.

***

Canton pulled open the fridge door in her kitchen, peeking inside. “Okay, let's see what I've got to feed us. I've got sandwich stuff. I've got leftover mashed potatoes and gravy. Ummm,” she closed the fridge and opened the freezer. “Oh! I've got a Red Barron frozen pizza I can throw into the oven.” She glanced over at Randi, who sat at the breakfast bar. “What's your pleasure? I can also order something in.” She glanced at the clock on the stove. “It's not quite nine yet, so I'm sure we can get something-“

“Do you still like Fruit Loops?” Randi asked, chin braced on her palm. “I remember you used to be obsessed with Fruit Loops when we were in school.”

With a shit-eating grin, Canton pulled open a cabinet door to expose a veritable grocery store shelf of the sugary cereal. “You want Fruit Loops for dinner?”

“Sure,” Randi said, sliding off the stool she'd been perched on and walked into the kitchen proper, opening cabinets until she found the bowls, grabbing two. “Why not?”

“Promise her champagne and she wants Fat Tire beer,” Canton muttered good-naturedly.

“Hey, be glad I'm a cheap date,” Randi scolded, shoving the two bowls in front of Canton so she could poor the colorful cereal.

Moments later, they sat across from each other on the living room floor in front of the flame-dancing fireplace, eating their cereal. “Thanks for letting me stay the night,” Randi said around a mouthful of dinner. “I didn't want to be alone.”

“Don't thank me,” Canton said, letting the milk drain back into the bowl from the spoonful she'd just mined from the Fruit Loop depths. “I would have whined and thrown a fit until you agreed to come back home with me if you hadn't of asked.”

Randi grinned, crunching happily on her cereal. “So, is your office completely set up, yet?”

Canton chuckled. “No, so I guess you didn't get out of it, even with your incredibly creative and elaborate plan to stand me up.” She winked at Randi.

“Aren't you funny. Good. I'll come help you this week, if you want. I start back up at the coffee shop Saturday morning.”

“How do you feel about that?” Canton asked, draining the sugary milk from the bowl of her finished cereal.

Randi finished the last mouthful of dinner then set the bowl aside. “Mixed emotions. I don't want to have to step foot back into that place after what happened, but at the same time, it'll be nice to have a good distraction.”

“What are you going to do about your apartment?”

Randi's brows drew. “What do you mean?”

“Well, I'm assuming you'll be moving back into the house. I also assume your lease isn't up quite yet.”

Randi grinned, playfully toeing Canton's leg with her socked foot. “You know what they say about assuming. Honestly Canton, I have no desire to move back into that house. There are far too many bad memories for me there. Besides, it's a big house for just me; Blake's moved on and is starting his own life. Once everything's been gone through, I intend to put it on the market.”

For some reason that made Canton very happy, maybe feeling that Randi was truly cutting ties to an old life that hadn't included her in it. It sounded selfish in her own soul, but she knew Randi was her future, and lamented the fact that she had only otherwise been her distant past.

“What's swirling around that beautiful head of yours?” Randi asked, leaning back on her hands as she cocked her head slightly to the side, contemplating Canton's contemplative expression.

Canton was brought back to the present, a soft smile curving her lips as she shook her head. “Nothing special.”

“Well, Miss ‘Nothing special', let's get this cleaned up and go to bed.”

The two headed into the kitchen where Canton rinsed their bowls and spoons then loaded them into the dishwasher, Randi waiting nearby, watching her every move. Suddenly her earlier tiredness wasn't so important anymore. Likely it was the energy boost from the foot, but more likely it was the site of Canton, looking more beautiful than ever and standing not ten feet away.

Canton was surprised when she felt two hands come to rest on her hips and a warm body behind her own as she pushed the dishwasher door closed. She placed her hands on Randi's and brought them around her middle, pulling Randi in close behind her. She could feel the temperature rise in the room and she hadn't even looked into Randi's eyes yet.

“Let's go to bed,” Randi whispered, placing a kiss on Canton's cotton-clad shoulder. Not waiting for a response, she pulled away from the hug, grabbing one of Canton's hands and leading her through the house, making sure the doors were locked and all lights were turned off, as well as the gas fireplace.

She led Canton by the hand up the stairs and into the master suite, not stopping until the stood face to face next to Canton's four-poster bed. She looked up into Canton's eyes, seeing the love and desire that she was sure mirrored her own. Without a word, she let go of Canton's hand then reached for the hem of her t-shirt, tugging it over her head and letting it fall. Next, she reached behind herself and unsnapped her bra, the garment sliding down her arms and to the floor.

Canton watched, her heart racing and blood beginning to flow to regions south. Her gaze trailed over what was being revealed to her: the most beautiful thing she'd ever seen. As Randi worked on the button and zipper of her shorts, Canton began to remove her own clothing, stepping out of her shoes then pulling off socks, panties and bra. She followed Randi – both naked – onto the high bed, where Randi had begun to tug down the covers, making room for them both.

Randi perched on her side, reaching for Canton and pulling her down until the brunette lay on her back. Randi moved on top of her, both sighing at the feel of naked skin. She found Canton's mouth, the kiss gentle yet quickly deepening, Canton's hands getting lost in thick blonde hair, holding Randi in place.

One of Randi's hands began to roam as the kiss continued, fingertips marveling at the softness of the hills and valleys that was Canton's female form. “Have patience with me,” she murmured into the kiss. “It's been such a long time for me.”

“It's like riding a bicycle,” Canton grinned, “and take all the time you need, baby. I'm not going anywhere.”

Randi left Canton's mouth, itching to explore long-desired territory. As she kissed Canton's neck, she truly wondered how she'd ever gotten through eighteen years of marriage to a man. At the same time, it helped her to understand how she'd become so numb and removed from herself.

Canton gasped as one of her breasts was palmed, her nipple instantly becoming hard at the touch, sensation passing through her body like a tidal wave, and they'd just begun. Lord, help me! “Yes, Randi,” she whispered, her hand finding the blonde head as it neared her breast. She gasped as her nipple was engulfed in warm wetness.

Randi was in heaven as she suckled Canton's breast. She'd forgotten how pleasurable it was to make love to her; her time spent with Shannon – since day one – had been about his pleasure, and how quickly it could be done with. Now, with her body pressed between Canton's spread legs, her mouth on her breast, she knew she could remain there forever. She'd found it difficult to enjoy Shannon's masculine body, no matter how good of shape it was in. The abundance of hair had been a complete turn off, and even the hard muscle and lack of softness had bothered her. Now, as her hand ran down Canton's side to her thigh, the soft skin under her fingertips brought her home, where she knew she would always be, no matter what.

Canton, for her part realized in that moment that no matter of how many women she'd been with in her lifetime – which numbered to levels she was ashamed of – none of them could be what she wanted or needed, and she had to wonder if that was why she'd tried to conquer so many: was she trying to find her Randi again? By taking hundreds of women to her bed, was she trying to fill a spot within her that became open and cold after she'd left Randi's dorm room. Had she been trying to fill something that she hadn't even known existed before she'd met Randi? Likely so.

Randi felt her heart quicken with slight panic as she kissed and licked her way down Canton's body, hoping that it would come back to her, what to do with her mouth, where to touch Canton to make her feel good and what to do to make her come. She shouldn't have worried as she made her way down between Canton's long legs, her smell bringing it all back for Randi: suddenly, she couldn't wait to dig in, as though a map to Canton's pleasure had been spread out across her heart.

Canton gasped, her hands clutching Randi's hair as her hardened clit was suckled inside wet warmth, a firm tongue batting the nub around then pressing on it before it was released, Randi's tongue working further down her seam, catching the abundant wetness it found along the way.

“Oh fuck, Randi,” Canton whimpered as Randi's tongue found a sensitive spot, then entered her. She let out a loud groan, her head falling back into the pillow, thighs opening wider in reaction.

Randi hummed into her work, bringing a hand up and inserting two fingers inside Canton's heated core. She and Canton moaned in unison: she'd forgotten the bliss of being inside her body. Her tongue worked on her clit as her fingers pumped, bringing Canton to higher and higher levels of pleasure, her release just around the corner. Suddenly, her thighs clamped around Randi's head and hand, her body exploding in a loud cry, her chest heaving as she gasped for air.

Extremely proud of herself, Randi kissed her way back up Canton's body, nipping here and there along the way until she reached Canton's mouth, where they shared Canton's tangy flavor. “Mmm,” she hummed, breaking away from the kiss. “I'd forgotten how much I love doing that.”

Canton grinned, her hands running down Randi's back until they finally cupped her behind. “You can do that any time you want to.”

“Oh, I'm sure I can,” Randi chuckled, moving in for another kiss.

Canton moaned into the kiss, slowly rolling them over until she was on top. “I want to devour you,” she whispered against Randi's mouth, giving her a searing kiss before moving on to explore her gorgeous body. She ran a hand down, slipping it between Randi's spreading thighs, groaning at the incredible saturation she found there. “You're so wet, baby,” she muttered against Randi's breast before taking the hard nipple into her mouth.

Randi raised her hips, meeting Canton's exploring fingers. She gasped as Canton eased two fingers inside her, beginning a slow rhythm even as her mouth continued to tease her breast, sucking her nipple in then attacking it with tongue and gentle teeth. Randi buried her fingers into Canton's hair, pressing her head deeper into her breast even as her hips worked the slow rhythm with Canton's fingers.

Canton pulled her fingers from Randi's core, causing the blonde to whimper at the loss. She painted Randi's other nipple with the wetness that coated her fingers, bringing her mouth to it as she re-entered her.

“Oh god,” Randi moaned, her sex clinching at that move and following sensation on her breast and between her legs. “Canton,” she begged, her voice breathy, her hips moving faster even as Canton's fingers stayed their steady, slow pace. “Please…”

“What do you want, baby?” Canton asked, kissing her way back to Randi's mouth. “What do you need?”

“Faster… Please…”

Canton took Randi in an earth shattering kiss as she increased her thrusts, pulling high-pitched cries from Randi, Canton's thumb rubbing against her incredibly hard clit with each thrust in, increasing the pleasure and pressure.

“I love you, Randi,” Canton murmured, her own words becoming breathy as her own excitement increased at the sight of Randi's body writhing under her touch. “I love you so much.”

“Love you, too,” Randi panted, her eyes squeezing shut as her hips rose into the air, her head thrusting back and mouth opening for a loud cry as her climax ripped through her, her entire body trembling hard enough to shake the bed. Canton held on for dear life, increasing the pressure on Randi's clit, making Randi cry out once, twice, and finally a third time, out of breath as she begged Canton to stop.

Canton held her to her, caressing her body with gentle hands to help her calm: hand moving from between breasts down to hip and back again, loving kisses rained down on Randi's face. Finally, Randi rejoined the world of the living, her eyes opening and focusing on Canton. “Welcome back,” Canton smiled, placing a soft kiss on Randi's lips.

Randi had never felt so sated, feeling as though she could purr, if only she was created to do such. “Thank you.” She pushed Canton to her back and snuggled into her, placing weak kisses on her shoulder and neck before settling her head under Canton's chin. “That was amazing.”

“Yes it was,” Canton agreed, hugging Randi close.

As Randi snuggled in even closer, she knew without a doubt where she belonged, and where she would be for the rest of her life. For the first time, she was whole and understood true happiness. Randi's brows drew as something occurred to her. She lifted her head, looking down at Canton's relaxed face. “So, where is your wonderful little friend?” she asked, her hand roaming down Canton's body until she cupped Canton's sex. “Do you still have it?”

Canton laughed, playfully batting Randi's hand away. “I have an ancestor of it,” she laughed, “back home in New York.”

“No!” Randi whined.

“We'll get another one! We'll get another!”

Within moments the most intense tickle fight on the American continent began.

********************

Six Years Later:

Randi felt so strange, sitting on a strange bed - though she'd seen it a thousand times before. The lace comforter, so delicate and tasteful. The bedroom furniture was white, painted by a skillful and creative hand, mainly that of her daughter-in-law, Kerry. She looked around the room, trying to decide what she should do. In truth, she should be getting ready for bed by now, as tomorrow would be a big day: an emotional day. Even so, sleep just wasn't about to come anytime soon, so she sat staring. Her son's guest bedroom had no TV, so it wasn't like Randi could flip on Letterman and chill.

Sighing heavily, Randi stood from the bed, pacing over to the one window, which looked out over the small courtyard outside the building her son and Kerry's apartment was located in. Something, however did catch her eye. She was stunned as she saw a dark figure lurk up to the first-floor window, ducking in and out of shadows until finally they reached Randi's window, a face suddenly pressed up against the glass.

Trying to stifle her laughter, Randi quickly unlatched the window and slid it open. “What are you doing here?” she hissed. “Don't you know it's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding?”

Canton grinned, working on the screen: she pulled it out of the frame and set it aside. “Yeah, well I'm a bride, too so I figure our double bad luck will cancel the other out.”

Randi laughed, then put her hand over her mouth, glancing at the door to make sure she hadn't been heard. Turning back to the woman she'd be exchanging vows with in sixteen hours, she raised a brow in question. “What are you doing here?”

“I've come to steal you away for one last adventure before we have to become all proper-like.”

Randi accepted the hand that was offered, silently closing the window behind her and then Randi set the screen in the tracks, then grabbed Randi's hand, both stealing off into the darkness. Canton's black Hummer started up and screeched off into the night, Randi holding on for dear life.

“What has gotten into you, woman?!” she exclaimed, glaring over at the driver, who wore a devilish grin. “Our son is going to kill us if he finds me gone, you know that, right?”

“Yep. Though in all honesty, I'm more worried about an eight-and-a-half-month pregnant Kerry,” Canton admitted.

“Nah,” Canton waved her off. “I can handle her.” She grinned at Randi. “I'll dock her wages.”

Randi threw her head back, a bark of laughter escaping. She felt wonderful and so completely bad. It didn't take long for her to figure out where Canton was taking them. She snickered as Canton parked amongst the trees and the darkness of the woods around them. Canton locked the doors then turned to Randi.

“Let's get in the backseat and make out like a couple of teenagers.”

Randi giggled, feeling like the teenager she was when Canton had last spoken those words. “We're sure acting like a couple of teenagers.”

“All the more reason to do it, then.”

Without further ado, they scrambled to the spacious backseat of the large SUV, Canton dead center, tugging Randi to straddle her lap. They shared a passionate kiss, Randi's fingers burying themselves in Canton's hair, cut shorter now than it ever had been. At first Randi wasn't so sure she liked it, but soon realized it gave her partner a sexy, sophisticated look.

She pulled back from the kiss, nearly becoming a contortionists as she removed the flannel pants she was wearing, following by her panties, tossing them into the front passenger seat. Canton watched with ravenous eyes, her fingers working the button and zipper of her jeans, lifting her hips to tug them down just enough to give the phallus she wore plenty of breathing room.

“So, what if I get pregnant, baby?” Randi teased, climbing back onto Canton's lap, reaching between them to grab the cyberskin dildo, teasing them both with it.

“Guess we gotta have a shot gun wedding, then,” Canton grinned, her hands running up under Randi's t-shirt to cup her breasts, “Blake holding the shot gun.”

Randi grinned, slowly moving her hips along the length of the dildo, both moaning at her movements. “I'm a good catch, ya know,” she murmured, her words becoming breathy as her excitement grew. “I just passed the Bar exam.”

Silence filled the large cab as Randi lifted herself and positioned the tip of the phallus at her entrance. With exaggerated slowness, she lowered herself onto it, her gaze never leaving the adoring one of Canton.

“So I hear,” Canton murmured into the tender flesh of Randi's throat. “You can keep me in the extravagant lifestyle I'm accustomed to and I can retire.”

Randi chuckled, slowly moving her hips. “You will not. You love what you do too much.”

Canton nodded, finding Randi's mouth again. “Yes I do. I love you, too.”

“Oh, Canton,” Randi moaned, wrapping her arms around Canton's neck and deepened the kiss.

Canton's hand slid out from under Randi's t-shirt, moving down to cup Randi's behind, using her hips to thrust up quickly into Randi, their joined rhythm indicative of the raised level of excitement. Canton hadn't seen Randi for two days, and the loss had weighed on her heavily. She had no idea she could miss her so much, and truly wondered how she'd lived nearly twenty years without her.

Randi, for her part was lost in the pleasure and love she felt for the woman beneath her. She kissed Canton, trying to convey what words – no matter how beautiful and meaningful – just couldn't truly convey. It didn't take long before pleasure overcame them both, their breathing too heavy to continue kissing even as their mouths remained together. Finally, Randi threw her head back, her release rushing through her. A moment later, Canton joined her, right as her cell phone chirped to life.

They chuckled as Randi reached into the console between the two front seats, handing it to her partner, who brought the iPhone to her ear.

“Dr. Landis…” she gave Randi a sheepish grin. “Yes, Blake, she's with me… I know, we're bad, but-“ Canton's eyes bugged. “How far is she dilated?”

Randi quickly got the message, removing herself from Canton's lap and quickly dressing as Canton climbed back into the driver's seat, unbuckling the dildo from her harness as she listened, Blake's voice so impassioned Randi could hear it from the passenger seat.

“Alright, Blake. We're on our way. Okay, bye.” She ended the call and glanced at Randi, getting the engine started. “Honeymoon's over, sweetie. Kerry's about to have a baby.”

Randi and Canton ran through the sliding glass doors of the hospital, Canton asking at the front desk where Kerry Lehey could be found. Directions given, they continued on, Randi's heart about to pound out of her chest. My god! I'm going to be a grandmother!

By time they got to Kerry's room, the door was closed, sounds of a woman in pain muffled from the other side. Canton grabbed Randi, holding her close as they waited. “I can't believe it's finally here,” she whispered, resting her cheek upon the top of Randi's head.

“I know. We're going to be grandparents, Canton.”

Canton smiled, nodding. “I know.”

Tears burst from Randi's eyes at the shrill sound of a baby crying from within Kerry's room. Moments later the door was opened and a nurse hurried out, carrying a tiny swathed bundle in her arms. Randi couldn't take her eyes off the nurse, even as she disappeared down the hall.

“Allison Landis Lehey is finally here,” Blake said, walking over to the women, dressed in scrubs, a mask hanging around his neck.

Randi pulled away from Canton and rushed into his awaiting arms. “Congratulations!” she exclaimed, an emotional wreck.

Blake squeezed her tightly then hugged Canton just as tightly. “Eight pounds three ounces, Doc,” he grinned, looking every bit the proud father.

“I'm so happy for you and Kerry, Blake,” Canton said, swiping at a few tears of her own.

“Can't keep you two separated for a minute!” was called out from the room.

Canton and Randi exchanged a guilty look then followed Blake into the room, smells of a recent birth twitching their noses. “Hey, you can only wish you'll be so lucky when you're old like us,” Canton laughed, giving Kerry a careful hug from where Kerry still lay in the bed.

Randi hugged her tight, placing a kiss on her cheek. “Congratulations, honey.”

“Thank you,” Kerry beamed, even as exhausted as she looked.

“Here's baby Allison for you,” the nurse announced, all the post-birth duties taken care of. She handed the baby to Kerry, Blake perching on the side of her bed and leaning over his wife and daughter.

Canton saw Blake's camera laying on the bedside table, so grabbed it, pulling out the tucked away view screen and began to tape the new family. “Allison Landis Lehey's first night on earth,” she explained for later reference.

“Come here, Mom,” Blake said, motioning Randi over. “Hold your granddaughter.”

Kerry carefully handed the baby over, Randi taking her into her arms, eyes filled with wonder as she looked down into the tiny face of her son's child. With tears in her eyes, she looked at Blake. “Your dad should have been here,” she whispered.

Blake nodded, sadness in his eyes. “I'm sure he is.”

Randi placed a kiss on Allison's wrinkled forehead. “Welcome to earth, baby girl.” She turned to Canton, who was pointing the camera at them. “Want to hold your granddaughter, Canton?” she asked the lens of the tiny camera.

Canton nodded, handing the camera Blake then taking the tiny bundle in her arms, her heart feeling as though it would pound right out of her chest. “Hi, sweetheart,” she whispered, not sure what else to say. The wonder of the moment stole her breath away, let alone her words.

“Well, I guess we'll have to decline the invitation to your upcoming nuptials,” Kerry joked.

Blake felt his heart sink, knowing that was the case. He had an idea and bolted out of the room, only to return a few moments later, the hospital chaplain in tow. “It's not fancy, but it'll have to do,” he explained, turning to the man in Roman collar.

Randi and Canton exchanged a glance, the silent communication of the truly bonded passing between them. Without a word, Canton handed Allison to her mother's arms then turned to Randi, grabbing her hands in both of hers.

The chaplain opened the bible he had carried in with him. “We are gathered here today to witness the joining of-“ he stopped, heavy brows drawn as he looked questioningly at Blake.

“Randi and Canton,” he guided.

“Randi and Canton,” the chaplain continued. “Canton, do you take Randi to be your wedded wife, constant friend and faithful partner from this day forward?”

“I do,” Canton whispered.

“And do you, Randi take Canton to be your wedded wife, constant friend and faithful partner from this day forward?”

“With all my heart,” she nodded, her gaze never wavering from Canton's.

“They by the power invested in me and in front of these witnesses, I do pronounce you joined.”

Kerry and Blake clapped softly, not wanting to scare Allison, who was cuddled in her mother's arms.

“You may now kiss your bride!”

They laughed as Randi and Canton struggled for a moment to decide who would lead. Finally, Canton grabbed Randi and gave her the most loving kiss she could. “I love you,” she whispered against Randi's lips.

“I love you, too.” She couldn't look away, even as Blake escorted the chaplain from the room with a hearty handshake and his gratitude.

The End