MISS LARILIA’S LESSON

By Mavis Applewater

yomavis@email.com

February 2002

Disclaimers: This story and its characters belong to me and me alone. This story may not be reproduced or posted without my consent. Speaking of consent . . . this little tale contains a loving sexual relation between two consenting adult women. If for some reason this isn’t something that you would enjoy, do all of us a favor and don’t read this material or anything else I’ve written. If for any reason it’s illegal for you to read this material, you must go now.

Thank you to my beta reader Joanne.

As always this is for Heather.

PART ONE - LATE AUGUST 1883

Nellie leaned against the counter and looked thoughtfully out the window of her father’s mercantile. She was daydreaming again, something her parents were constantly scolding her for. She couldn’t help herself. She tried to pay attention to what was happening around her. It might help if something exciting would happen. Nothing ever did. One day progressed into the next without causing the slightest ripple in her life.

She worked from one day to the next behind the counter at the mercantile. It was her duty until the day when she married Freddie. He was nice enough and she had known him since they were children. Growing up in a small town in South Dakota, the town seemed to grow as they did. Still it was in the middle of nowhere. It wasn’t a surprise when Freddie asked for her hand or when her father gave his consent willingly.

Freddie’s family owned the largest farm in the area and her family owned the mercantile and restaurant/boarding house. Despite her mother’s objections that it be called a hotel, it would always be known as the Winslow Boarding House. The only change was when someone rented a room. Nellie would find herself prying stories out of the traveling strangers. Of course, her parents chastised her constantly. They finally resorted to banishing her to the store so she wouldn’t bother their guests.

She sighed in boredom as she continued to stare out the window. It was late on a Friday afternoon. Soon she would be allowed some time to herself. Tomorrow was Saturday and that meant she would be needed in the kitchen at the restaurant. Then Sunday the entire family would dress in their finest clothes and attend church. She found herself frowning, thinking about what would happen on Sunday afternoon. Freddie would naturally want to go for a buggy ride and picnic.

Her green eyes rolled in despair. She liked the tall dark-haired man well enough. But he would naturally want them to touch. She wished that she felt some spark when they kissed and touched one another. Instead she simply felt something was lacking. She had read stories about how a girl’s heart would race and her head swoon from the touch of her lover’s lips. "Perhaps after we’re married," she muttered to herself, not truly believing her words.

Of course she and Freddie hadn’t consummated their relationship. But they did feel one another underneath their clothing. Freddie seemed to enjoy this activity immensely. She didn’t have the heart to tell him that his fumbling simply bored her. She noticed that the stagecoach had arrived. The sight always filled her with a sense of excitement. Perhaps something would come in the mail or a new visitor would arrive to brighten her existence - a tall dark stranger that would capture her heart. Normally there wasn’t any mail for her since she didn’t know anyone outside of Cedar Grove. And the only strangers were creepy older men who only seemed to exhibit a distasteful interest in the young strawberry blonde. It saddened her each time she realized that Freddie was the only option in life. Well, the new schoolteacher was due to arrive soon. That would be interesting. Perhaps she would be someone close to her age; someone she could talk to.

Nellie didn’t have any friends; all of the girls her own age had already married. It wouldn’t be proper for them to spend time with her. Not that she found any of the girls in her little town the slightest bit interesting. Still it would be pleasant to have someone to talk to. She watched with interest to see if anyone exited the stagecoach. She felt her heart skip a beat as she spied the tallest woman she had ever seen step down into the dirt street. "She’s beautiful," she whispered as she drank in the tall raven-haired beauty.

Nellie’s stomach clenched as the tall woman turned. A pair of piercing blue eyes stared at her. Nellie couldn’t understand the sudden flutters filling her stomach. "That couldn’t be the new school teacher," she whispered in disbelief. The stranger smiled slightly before turning and speaking to the driver. Nellie’s mouth hung open as she continued to watch every move the mysterious woman made.

Once the woman had disappeared into the restaurant, Nellie released a tense breath. Absently she wiped her hand across her mouth. She was shocked when she discovered that she was drooling. "Huh?" she blurted out in surprise. She shook her head in an effort to clear her obviously muddled mind. Nellie hiked up the hem of her skirt and spun on her heels. The tiny woman rushed around in a flurry. She locked the front door and totaled the receipts for the day.

She had to go through the cash and the ledger several times before everything balanced. It frustrated her. Normally she was very good with numbers but her mind kept drifting to the mysterious woman. Her palms kept sweating. Despite her efforts to convince herself that it was the late summer heat, she knew it wasn’t the truth.

Finally the books were balanced, the shades drawn, and the sign turned around. She put the money and ledger into the safe and departed the store. She double-checked the locks before she rushed quickly across the wooden sidewalks towards her home.

Nellie rushed through the deserted foyer and quickly glanced into the dining room that served as the restaurant. Her mother was busy laying out tablecloths in hopes that there would be some business that evening. Nellie stepped out of the room quickly before her mother could notice her. "Nellie," the tiny woman called out vehemently.

Nellie cringed and stomped her foot slightly before stepping into the dining room. "Hello Mother," she responded flatly.

"Gave me a hand setting up," her mother instructed her sternly.

"Yes, Mother," Nellie grumbled as she crossed the dining room and entered the kitchen. She knew that there would be few patrons dining this evening. There was Doc Hansen unless he received a dinner invitation from another one of the townsfolk. Rev. Farley would be there unless, of course, he also received an invitation as well. Then there were the three men who were taking up lodging for the week. Nellie couldn’t recall their names - only that one was a salesman, the other two were with the railroad, and they all had bad manners. The only other people coming into town for the evening were the men who would bypass their little establishment in favor of the saloon that was on the opposite end of the street.

Nellie didn’t mind helping her mother. Since her two older brothers and her sister had married and moved on, she was the only help that wasn’t hired. "Hello, Nellie," Jack, the handyman, greeted her.

"Hey, Jack." Nellie waved to him as she moved through the kitchen to retrieve the linens and flatware that would be needed to service the few patrons. She paused for a moment to look into the pot resting on the stove.

"Get out of there," a stern voice scolded her.

Nellie blushed as she turned to see Melinda, the cook, glaring at her. The portly older woman who was Jack’s wife wagged her finger at Nellie. The strawberry blonde shrugged as she replaced the lid on the simmering pot. "Where’s Pa?" she asked nonchalantly.

"New guest checked in," Melinda explained as she shooed Nellie away from the stove. "The new school teacher will be staying here."

"I saw her. She doesn’t look like a school teacher," Nellie said as she gathered her things.

"You’re not to bother the guests," Melinda cautioned her as Nellie exited back into the dining room.

Nellie was lost in thoughts of the beautiful new schoolteacher as she assisted her mother. Fortunately the older woman seemed content in prattling on about Nellie’s wedding and Freddie’s endless virtues. The only thing about her upcoming nuptials that pleased Nellie was that they were more than a year away.

They finished their preparations and Nellie was excused to wash up for dinner. She retreated to her room on the second floor. The family’s quarters were located on the opposite side of the building, keeping them securely away from the paying guests. She joined her parents in the family’s private dining room.

Her father offered the prayer and they ate in silence. Talking was not permitted during the meal. It was something that bothered the normally chatty young woman. Her parents would send her off to her room after the evening meal and then they would talk quietly. Nellie would be left alone with her thoughts and the few books she was allowed to read.

The following morning Nellie dressed in a hurry. She told herself that she simply wanted to assist her mother and Melinda. Secretly she was aching to meet the new schoolteacher.

"Now what would you be doing down here so early?" Melinda teased the inquisitive young woman.

"I just wanted to help," Nellie protested adamantly.

"Fine." Melinda handed her a tray of food. "You want to meet her so much, you can serve her breakfast."

"Thank you." Nellie giggled as she eagerly accepted the tray. She almost tripped as she rushed into the dining room. Nellie could feel the tray trembling as she approached the dark-haired woman. She thought the woman looked even more beautiful close up. Yesterday her hair had been tied up in a tight bun. Today it hung down her back in a tight braid.

"Good morning," Nellie managed to squeak out as she placed her breakfast before her.

"Good morning," came the deep rich reply accompanied with a brilliant smile.

"I’m Nellie Winslow," she introduced herself as she held the now empty tray in front of her. She couldn’t for the life of her understand why she felt so nervous.

"I didn’t realize that Mr. And Mrs. Winslow had children," the beautiful stranger said in a pleasant voice.

"I’m the youngest," Nellie explained as she looked around quickly to ensure that her parents weren’t lurking nearby. "My two brothers and my sister are married and have moved away."

"Oh," the woman said as she pursed her lips thoughtfully. "I’m Miss Larilia, the new schoolteacher."

"A pleasure to meet you, ma’am," Nellie said as she stared into crystal blue eyes.

"Will you be one of my new students?" Miss Larilia inquired sweetly.

Nellie groaned at the all too familiar assumption. "No," Nellie explained. "I finished my schooling quite some time ago."

"Oh?" Miss Larilia said with surprise.

"In fact, I’m to be married a year from next fall," Nellie continued to explain.

"Really?" Miss Larilia’s stunned expression was written clearly across her chiseled features.

Nellie rolled her sea green eyes in amusement. "That’s when I turn twenty one," Nellie explained in exasperation. It was a common occurrence. If the truth was told, her youthful appearance was one of the things that had successfully assisted her in delaying her impending marriage.

"My apologies," Miss Larilia said with a light laugh. "You just look so young."

"It is quite all right," Nellie said as she smiled shyly. "It happens all the time, Miss Larilia."

"Please call me Vivian," the schoolteacher offered in a friendly tone. "Since you’re not that much younger than myself."

"Nellie," her mother called out sternly from the doorway of the kitchen.

"I have to go," Nellie apologized quickly as she cringed. "It was nice meeting you," she said quietly. Her heart stopped as a firm yet gentle hand touched one of her own.

"I enjoyed meeting you as well, Nellie." Vivian’s eyes seemed to sparkle as she spoke.

Nellie stood there enjoying the woman’s touch. The sound of her mother clearing her throat from behind her snapped her out of trance. "Sorry, I’m not supposed to bother the guests," Nellie added with a slight grimace.

"It was no bother," Vivian said softly as she gave Nellie’s hand a light squeeze before releasing it. "Perhaps later today you could show me around town? Mr. Coughlin offered but I would prefer someone closer to my own age."

"That old letch," Nellie said with a disgusted groan. "He’s always shopping for a new wife," she added with a snort, knowing that the aging bachelor would try to court the beautiful woman. "I’d be happy to show you the town. I won’t be free until after lunchtime though."

"Just come by my room when you’re free," Vivian offered.

Nellie finally pried herself away from Vivian to face the scolding that she would surely get from her mother.

PART TWO

Nellie spent the remainder of her day hurrying, trying to finish all her chores so she could meet up with Vivian. It was well after two in the afternoon when she thought she was finally free to enjoy the day with her new friend. Unfortunately Freddie decided to surprise her with a visit. She tried to get rid of her eager fiancée but her mother insisted that she spend time with him.

They sat in the family sitting room under the watchful eye of her father. Nellie was thankful that her parents insisted that the couple not be allowed alone together with exception of their Sunday afternoon picnics. They cautioned her constantly about not rushing anything before her wedding night. She didn’t have the heart to tell them that she really didn’t enjoy Freddie’s attention. She dreaded their picnics as Freddie’s advances grew bolder.

They spent a long boring afternoon visiting. The entire time Nellie made every attempt to cut their visit short. Freddie seemed determined to stay as long as possible. Nellie was forced to endure dinner with her intended as well. The day had vanished. Finally Freddie had departed and she was then forced to endure a lengthy lecture from her Mother regarding her rude behavior towards him.

After realizing the only way to free herself from her mother was to apologize and promise to do better, she did exactly that. She quickly rushed off and searched the lodger’s registry to find out what room Vivian was in.

As she approached Vivian’s room, she felt a wave of nervousness wash over her. Meekly she knocked on the door. Her breath escaped her when Vivian opened the door and greeted her with a bright smile. "Hello," Vivian purred softly. "I was beginning to think you were going to stand me up," the schoolteacher teased her.

"I’m sorry. I couldn’t get away," Nellie blurted out quickly. "The sun is still up. If you would like, I can still show you around. There really isn’t that much to see."

"I would like that," Vivian responded in a sweet tone. "Come in while I get my wrap."

Shyly Nellie stepped into the modest room. She looked around quickly, not surprised by the sparse amount of luggage. After all, schoolteachers weren’t paid very much. The town allotted them a small salary and paid for her lodgings. As Nellie glanced at the tall woman she felt suddenly small. Granted she had never been a tall girl, but Vivian was very tall.

They spent the rest of their day together, walking down the main street of the small town. Nellie prattled on about the town and some of the folks. She introduced Vivian to everyone they encountered. She and Vivian chatted politely. The only time Nellie felt uncomfortable was when Vivian inquired about Freddie.

Nellie tried her best to talk about the man she was to marry. Somehow she just didn’t feel comfortable talking about him with Vivian. Nellie couldn’t quite put her finger on what it was that bothered her about it.

After they finished their walk, the sun was just about to set. The two women exchanged their goodbyes in the foyer. Nellie felt strange at the thought of leaving this woman’s company. She felt suddenly lonely when she retired for the evening.

PART THREE

Months had passed since Miss Larilia’s arrival. Nellie’s days seemed just a little brighter. She enjoyed spending time with the woman and they would often talk in the schoolteacher’s room. Her parents objected at first until Vivian politely explained that it was a comfort to have someone her own age to talk to.

From the window at the mercantile Nellie would watch Vivian gather the children together at the start of every day. Then, even if she were with a customer, she would watch at the end of the school day to see Vivian leave the tiny schoolhouse that was nestled just across the road.

The only gray spots in her days were her Sunday afternoon picnics. She gathered the courage to explain to Freddie that she didn’t think that her parents would approve. Reluctantly he finally agreed. Their picnics went from uncomfortable groping sessions to uncomfortable talks. Freddie did try using his large puppy dog eyes to sway her. Nellie did allow a few kisses and the occasional touch.

One Saturday afternoon Freddie called on her. She was talking with Vivian in the foyer when Freddie entered. She didn’t miss the appreciative gaze Freddie cast in the schoolteacher’s direction. She also noticed Vivian’s apparent discomfort when she introduced her fiancée. The normally friendly brunette seemed cold. Vivian excused herself quickly and left them alone.

Nellie escorted Freddie into the dining room. They shared a cup of coffee while her mother kept a watchful eye on the young couple. Throughout the entire visit Nellie could only think about Vivian; she’d seemed so sad when she left them. Freddie, of course, extended his visit.

After dinner Freddie was still there. Vivian stepped out onto the porch just as Freddie was leaning in to kiss Nellie. The young blonde was embarrassed and felt slightly guilty as she pushed Freddie away. "I’m sorry," Vivian said in a quiet sad tone.

"Miss Larilia?" Nellie’s mother beamed as she stepped out on the porch. "Have you met Nellie’s young man, Frederick Cartwright?"

"Yes," Vivian said in a polite tone. Nellie could see the sadness clouding her normally bright blue eyes. "Excuse me," Vivian offered as she quickly retreated inside.

"She’s a bit of a strange one," Freddie muttered in bewilderment.

"Don’t say that," Nellie snarled. "She’s very nice."

Freddie was stunned at her outburst. She said a curt good evening to him before retreating inside. As she climbed the staircase she knew where she was heading. She knocked on the door. Vivian looked so weary when she opened it that Nellie couldn’t stop herself from reaching out to cup Vivian’s cheek.

Her body tingled as Vivian leaned into her touch. Then she felt suddenly cold as Vivian pulled away. "Are you all right?" Nellie asked fearfully.

"I’m fine," Vivian said softly.

"Are you certain?" Nellie said as she reached out for Vivian once again.

"Yes, I’m just tired," Vivian responded as she pulled away. They stood there just looking at each other. Nellie’s breathing became ragged as she leaned in slightly; she could see that Vivian was breathing heavily as well. She seemed to be drawn to the tall woman. Her senses were suddenly alive as she stepped even closer.

Vivian’s eyes fluttered shut as Nellie leaned into her body. She could feel Vivian’s hand caressing her shoulder. Nellie could smell the scent of lavender on Vivian’s skin as she pressed closer. Suddenly Vivian stepped away. The movement was so sudden that Nellie found herself swaying. "Good night," Vivian said quickly.

Taken aback by Vivian’s sudden rejection, Nellie could only blink in response as she stepped away. Nellie was confused and uncertain about what was happening. "Good night," she mumbled absently as she stumbled back, her eyes unable to focus on anything. She finally steadied herself just as Vivian’s door softly clicked shut.

The days that followed were uncomfortable for Nellie. She couldn’t seem to get Vivian out of her thoughts. Even prior to the night of Freddie’s visit, she had become increasingly aware that Vivian was her constant focus. Now her only question was what she going to do about it. Whatever IT was.

PART FOUR

It was a Sunday afternoon and Nellie was driving her father’s buggy. For the first time in weeks she felt good about her afternoon picnic. After Freddie had met Vivian his touching grew more insistent. Nellie had finally come up with a solution that made her very happy. She informed Freddie that he could just forget about their weekly picnic until he learned better manners. So instead of spending her free afternoon fighting off Freddie’s advances, she was spending the day with Vivian.

Vivian had been increasingly distant. Nellie wasn’t certain that her idea would work but she had to try. It was late the other evening when she’d snuck out of her room and made her way quietly to Vivian’s. The schoolteacher was still half asleep when she opened the door, her blue eyes widening in surprise when she discovered Nellie standing there wrapped in her robe. "I’m sorry to wake you," Nellie apologized quickly before Vivian had a chance to speak. "I need to ask you a favor and don’t want my parents to know about it," she continued boldly.

"Nellie, is everything all right?" Vivian asked, her voice thick with concern.

"Yes and no." Nellie pushed forward. "I know this is going to sound silly but I need you to go on a picnic with me Sunday."

"Excuse me?" Vivian asked in confusion.

"I need time away from Freddie and I told him that I couldn’t see him on Sunday after services because I had plans with you," Nellie blurted out excitedly.

Vivian just gave her an odd look before speaking. "Do you ever take a moment to breath when you speak?" Vivian asked in dismay.

"Please say yes," Nellie pleaded as she stepped slightly closer to Vivian.

"Do I have a choice?" Vivian asked as a small smile emerged.

Nellie stepped even closer as she pouted slightly. "Please," she repeated.

"Yes," Vivian conceded as her smile grew brighter.

It was at that moment that Nellie realized how much she had missed that smile. "Thank you," she gushed as she hugged Vivian. Vivian stumbled back slightly. Strong arms held her tightly in an effort to hold the joyful blonde up. Instinctively Nellie tightened her hold on Vivian’s body. The strangest things happened at that moment. Nellie’s breasts ached as her nipples hardened. Her body tingled from the warmth of Vivian’s body pressed against her own. She felt Vivian pull her closer. The schoolteacher’s hands roamed down her back. She could feel Vivian’s breath on her neck. Nellie felt Vivian’s lips brush against her skin.

Nellie moaned deeply as she pressed her body closer to Vivian’s. Then she whimpered softly as Vivian pulled away. The tall schoolteacher didn’t meet her gaze as she stepped further back. "It’s late," Vivian said in a soft voice.

"I’ll see you on Sunday," Nellie said hopefully as she stepped back into the hall. "Thank you," she added quickly before retreating back to her room.

Now it was Sunday and Nellie kept the horses on a steady pace to the secluded grove. She felt slightly giddy at the thought of finally being alone with Vivian. The schoolteacher remained strangely quiet. Nellie was quiet in turn, allowing Vivian to enjoy her thoughts and the countryside. Nellie found the perfect spot. The grove was empty and would remain that way. The trees and flowers that surrounded them were beautiful.

Nellie unhitched the horses and allowed them to roam free and graze. She knew that the team wouldn’t stray very far. Vivian walked around, seeming to enjoy the beautiful view. Nellie laid out the blanket and proceeded to unpack the simple basket of food she’d brought along. She smiled at how she had hovered over Melinda as she prepared the meal. She had never done that with Freddie.

"It is very beautiful and peaceful here," Vivian commented as she approached the blanket. Nellie looked up at Vivian, her dark hair hanging down her back braided tightly. The way the sunlight shone from behind her seemed to illuminate her. The simple blue dress brought out the color of Vivian’s eyes. "Yes, it is," Nellie agreed as she drank in Vivian’s beauty. She wasn’t fooling herself; she knew that this was the person she wanted to be with.

Vivian smiled shyly as she lowered herself down onto the blanket. "Do you know what you’re doing?" Vivian asked her coyly.

"No," Nellie answered honestly.

"Do you know why you’re doing this?" Vivian inquired, her eyes twinkling slightly.

"Yes," Nellie answered in a ragged breath, suddenly feeling nervous as she felt the energy flowing between them.

"So what’s for lunch?" Vivian inquired lightly.

Nellie smiled and breathed out a sigh of relief. She laid out their lunch, feeling thankful that Vivian didn’t continue their conversation. Instead they fell into friendly banter as they ate their lunch. "So why did you want to spend your free afternoon with me instead of the young Mr. Cartwright?" Vivian asked as they repacked the basket.

"I enjoy spending time with you," Nellie answered with sincerity. "And Freddie has been pressuring me to be more intimate."

"What do you mean pressuring you?" Vivian asked hotly, her face tense as she spoke.

"It seems all he wants to do is kiss and . . . you know." Nellie turned away slightly.

"Do you and he . . .?" Vivian’s voice trailed off.

Nellie turned back to her. Her heart almost broke at the sad look on Vivian’s face. "We touch one another. We never go too far since we aren’t married yet."

"No, not yet," Vivian said solemnly. "Do you love him?"

"No," Nellie responded flatly.

"Then why are you marrying him?" Vivian asked in dismay.

"Because it’s what I’m expected to do." Nellie felt like crying as she made the confession.

"I understand." Vivian hung her head in dismay.

"Perhaps I’ll grow to love him or start to feel something when he touches me," Nellie reasoned, knowing in her heart that she had felt more by simply hugging Vivian. "Maybe I’m just doing it wrong. I mean, he’s the only one I’ve ever kissed before."

Vivian chuckled at her rationalization. Nellie smiled in response as the two women settled themselves against a large tree that Nellie had laid the blanket in front of. Nellie felt a strange but comfortable sensation course through her body as their shoulders touched. She smiled as they both leaned into the touch. Somehow she knew what she wanted to happen. And she was clueless as to how to bring it about.

Nellie folded her hands nervously in her lap as Vivian picked at the blades of grass surrounding their blanket. Nellie stole a glance over at the schoolteacher who seemed preoccupied with a long blade of grass she had plucked out of the ground. She watched as long fingers twirled it between her long fingers. Nellie’s mouth became suddenly dry as her green eyes focused on those fingers.

Nellie was fighting off the strange desire to feel those fingers touching her. She didn’t understand these thoughts and she didn’t want to. But they remained, humming through her already confused mind. Her eyes drifted slightly upwards to Vivian’s ample bosom. She watched in fascination as the brunette’s chest heaved slightly as she took in a breath.

Nellie wrapped her own fingers together even tighter, fearful that she might give in to the temptation to touch Vivian. Her knuckles turned white from the tight grip. All the while her eyes remained firmly focused on Vivian’s breathing. It wasn’t the first time she had spied another woman’s bosom but it was the first time she’d been unable to look away. She noticed the pattern of Vivian’s breathing increase slightly.

Nellie pressed her thighs together tightly in an effort to fight off the sudden throbbing she was experiencing. Still she remained helpless to look away from Vivian’s bosom. She found herself pondering what Vivian’s undergarments looked like. Again this wasn’t a new experience for the young shop girl. It was the first time that she allowed herself to linger upon thoughts that she’d been told were unnatural.

But this time she somehow sensed that it was all right for her to explore these foreign thoughts. A slight tickling sensation brushed across her arm. She blinked in confusion. She reluctantly moved her gaze down to her arm to discover that Vivian was slowly trailing the blade of grass across the exposed skin on her forearm. She smiled as the tickling continued. The blade of grass wisped across her arm and down to her tightly clenched hands.

Nellie’s body trembled as Vivian leaned in closer. She felt Vivian’s breath caress her cheek. She tightened her hands, fighting off her unexplainable urges. Vivian’s breath moved down her face and she could feel Vivian nuzzling her hair. She couldn’t look at Vivian as she felt her breath gently tickle her ear.

Nellie’s focus remained on her hands that were still planted firmly in her lap. "You’re going to break your fingers if you keep squeezing them that tightly," Vivian whispered hotly in her ear. The sound of Vivian’s voice and the feel of her hot breath sent a sudden jolt through Nellie’s already tense body. Nellie’s eyes snapped shut as she tried to fight off unfamiliar sensations.

Nellie shifted nervously as she felt the blade of grass tickle her tightly clenched hands. "Relax, Nellie," Vivian whispered. "I won’t do anything to hurt you," she added in a soft sincere tone as she continued to tickle Nellie’s hands.

Nellie felt herself relax slightly as her senses continued to pulsate uncontrollably. She felt the delightful sensation of Vivian’s lips brushing her neck. Nellie’s lips parted as she began to breathe heavily. She tilted her head back, unknowingly granting Vivian greater access to her neck. Insistent lips began nibbling along her creamy white skin.

Nellie unclasped her hands. With her eyes still closed, she trailed one hand up along Vivian’s arm. As Vivian’s mouth continued its exploration, Nellie’s hand continued its path upwards. Nellie clutched Vivian’s firm shoulder as the brunette started planting gentle kisses along her jaw. Nellie moaned as Vivian’s lips moved closer to her own.

Nellie felt Vivian’s body pressing against her own. Nellie’s hand clasped the back of Vivian’s head and she opened her eyes as she drew Vivian closer. Their lips met shyly. Nellie felt the warmth of Vivian’s full lips spread through her body. The kiss felt so right and so very good. She wanted nothing more than to keep kissing Vivian.

Vivian’s tongue brushed against her lips. She melted into the touch as she parted her lips, granting the schoolteacher entrance into the warmth of her mouth. Her own tongue greeted Vivian’s and wrapped around it. Nellie’s passion stirred as the kiss continued to deepen. She moaned as one of Vivian’s strong hands cupped her breast.

Her body arched in response. She seemed to be pressing her breast deeper into the palm of Vivian’s hand. She needed to feel more of this woman’s touch. Their tongues continued to dance together sensually. Nellie was fighting the need to breathe. She simply wanted to lose herself in this woman’s kisses.

Nellie’s lips tingled as their kiss finally ended. Fueled by her desires, Nellie pulled Vivian back in for another kiss. Vivian kissed her quickly and pulled away. "Please," Nellie pleaded as she stared into Vivian’s brilliant blue eyes. Vivian’s hand continued to caress her breast. "I’ve never felt anything like this before," Nellie groaned softly as Vivian lowered her down onto the blanket.

"You can’t . . . we can’t let anyone know about this," Vivian cautioned her as she lay down beside her.

"I know," Nellie agreed sadly as she started to loosen Vivian’s hair from it’s tight braid. She wanted to see it flowing down her shoulders. She had loved seeing it that way when she’d awoken Vivian the other night.

Vivian smiled at her as Nellie ran her fingers through her sable-colored hair. "It’s so beautiful," Nellie commented absently. Vivian in turn ran her fingers through Nellie’s long strawberry blonde hair.

"Yours reminds me of sunshine," Vivian whispered softly.

Vivian sighed contentedly as her fingers moved to Nellie’s face. Her thumb grazed gently across Nellie’s lips. Nellie kissed Vivian’s fingers as they brushed her lips. "I can’t believe that I’m here with you. That you kissed me," Vivian said in a gentle tone just above a whisper.

"I’ve wanted to kiss you for the longest time," Nellie confessed as she allowed her hand to drift down Vivian’s chiseled features. "I didn’t understand it. I just needed to feel you," Nellie continued with uncertainty. "I want to kiss you again."

Vivian responded by capturing Nellie’s lips with her own. A surge of desire pulsated throughout Nellie’s entire being. Vivian cupped her breast once again. Nellie moaned with pleasure as she wrapped her arms around Vivian’s body, drawing her closer to her. Her body arched in response as Vivian caressed her breast.

Nellie ran her hands down Vivian’s long back. She began to unbutton the schoolteacher’s dress. She needed to feel more of this woman. She needed to see her. The tiny buttons seemed to go on forever as Nellie’s fingers skillfully undid each one. She felt Vivian’s hand moving across her chest. The buttons of her best Sunday dress located in the front were being slowly freed.

Nellie had finally undone the last button on Vivian’s dress. Now she was pulling Vivian’s dress down her broad shoulders. Vivian had opened the front of Nellie’s dress and was now kissing her way down her neck. The closeness of their bodies hampered Nellie’s efforts to further undress the object of her desire.

Nellie whimpered as she felt Vivian pull away from her. Vivian smiled as she sat up and began to unbutton the sleeves of her dress. Nellie smiled in return as she sat up slightly and shrugged her dress jacket off. She tossed it off to the side. Nellie sat there clad in her skirt and chemise. Vivian gave her a knowing smile as she stood, allowing her dress to fall to the ground.

Nellie’s heart pounded against her chest as her eyes drifted down Vivian’s seemingly endless legs. Vivian knelt down beside Nellie. Nellie was once again locked in a passionate kiss. She could feel Vivian unfasten her skirt and lower it down her body.

Nellie ran her fingers through Vivian’s hair as the brunette began to kiss her way down her body. Vivian ran her hands along Nellie’s skin as she removed her skirt. Nellie was lying blissfully on the blanket as Vivian removed their footwear. Vivian lay down beside her, leaning on her elbow to look down at Nellie. They were dressed only in their undergarments and yet somehow Nellie felt overdressed.

"Are you a virgin?" Vivian inquired in a careful tone.

"Yes," Nellie answered honestly.

"And so you will stay," Vivian reassured her.

"But . . . ," Nellie began to protest.

Vivian pressed her fingers to Nellie’s lips to silence her. "I can still pleasure you without taking your innocence," Vivian explained in a husky tone.

"And if I want to give myself to you?" Nellie protested eagerly.

"You’re to be married," Vivian said with a hint of disappointment.

"I don’t want him," Nellie choked out. "I want you."

"How can you know?" Vivian asked her in disbelief.

"He never made me feel the way you do," Nellie asserted as she pulled Vivian in for a lingering kiss.

Nellie kissed Vivian deeply, hoping to convey all of the emotions and desires she felt. Their bodies melted together as Vivian untied the lacing of Nellie’s chemise.

Vivian’s fingers burned her skin as she touched her gently. Nellie thought she was going to explode when she felt Vivian’s palm brush against her nipple. Nellie’s body seemed to take on a life of its own as her hips thrust into Vivian’s firm body. She felt a dampness gather in her bloomers as her hips began to rock rhythmically against Vivian. She plunged her tongue deeper into Vivian’s mouth as she began to loosen the ties on her chemise.

Vivian gasped as she pulled away from the kiss. Their hips ground together wildly as Nellie pulled open Vivian’s chemise. She moaned as she was greeted by the vision of Vivian’s beautiful breasts. She felt her own chemise being removed as their bodies continued to rock together. Nellie reached up to feel Vivian’s bosom, touching her shyly at first until she felt Vivian’s nipples harden from her touch.

Vivian was panting heavily as she lowered herself down to Nellie. The blonde shop girl trembled as she felt Vivian’s mouth taste her skin. Nellie gripped her tightly, feeling her naked back as Vivian kissed the valley between her breasts. Nellie parted her thighs and wrapped her legs around Vivian’s body.

She continued to thrust against the taller woman as her hands roamed down Vivian’s back. She paused for a moment as she reached the waistband of Vivian’s bloomers. Vivian’s tongue circled one of her breasts, teasing her. Nellie slipped her hands into Vivian’s undergarment, feeling the firm flesh eagerly as Vivian captured her aching nipple in her mouth.

Vivian teased her nipple with her tongue and her teeth while Nellie clutched her backside firmly. Nellie’s body couldn’t stop grinding against Vivian’s. As the schoolteacher’s mouth pleasured her breast, Nellie felt an overwhelming passion consuming her. Vivian teased her other nipple, pinching it between her fingers. "Vivian," Nellie gasped as her hips began to grind against Vivian’s body at a furious pace.

Nellie’s head spun; she was certain that she was going to pass out as Vivian moved her mouth from one breast to the other and then back again. Nellie whimpered in disappointment as Vivian’s mouth moved away from her breasts. Her body arched as the brunette began kissing her way down Nellie’s body.

The sensations of gentle kisses, licks, and Vivian’s soft hair touching her body were incredible. Nellie never wanted this feeling to end as Vivian blazed a fiery trail down her torso. Nellie felt her passion coating the insides of her thighs as Vivian lowered her bloomers. The brunette kissed her legs as she removed the last of Nellie’s clothing. Instead of feeling exposed, the blonde felt suddenly free.

Vivian kissed and tasted her way back up Nellie’s firm legs and thighs. Nellie gasped in pleasure as she felt Vivian’s breath blowing through her blonde curls. She opened herself wider as Vivian settled her body between her legs. Nellie draped her legs over Vivian’s shoulders as the brunette lifted her backside, cupping her cheeks firmly as she kissed the inside of Nellie’s thighs.

Nellie could feel Vivian shifting and then parting her now swollen nether lips. Nellie looked down to see her lover looking back up at her with fierce blue eyes. The look of passion made Nellie quiver. Nellie released a strangled cry as Vivian’s tongue flickered across her throbbing button. Vivian moaned with pleasure as her tongue tasted Nellie slowly.

Nellie never realized that doing this to another woman would feel so incredible. She watched as Vivian drank in her passion. Nellie’s body rocked against Vivian’s eager mouth as the brunette’s teeth grazed across her button. Vivian steadied Nellie’s gyrating body with one arm across her firm abdomen as she suckled her harder. "Sweet Jesus," Nellie cried out as she tried to press herself deeper into Vivian’s touch.

Nellie clutched the blanket with one hand as she pinched one of her nipples with her other. She could feel her thighs shaking uncontrollably as Vivian’s mouth and tongue quickened their pace. Nellie’s head fell back as her entire body exploded. Vivian continued to pleasure her. Nellie was certain that her heart was about to burst as she cried out for more.

Nellie collapsed in a quivering heap, her body covered in sheen of sweat. Vivian licked the inside of her thighs clean before gathering Nellie up in her arms. "I never knew," Nellie panted as Vivian held her tightly. "I never knew you could do that or that it would feel so wonderful," she finally managed to choke out as Vivian planted tender kisses across her brow.

Nellie buried her face in Vivian’s naked chest. The smell of her skin and the sight of her nipples were far too tempting for the little blonde. Nellie dipped her head and captured one of Vivian’s nipples in her mouth. She began to suckle it furiously, enjoying the taste of Vivian’s skin.

Nellie circled the rose-colored bud with her tongue as her hand drifted down Vivian’s firm body. She felt Vivian shift as she lowered her lover down. Nellie’s hand drifted underneath the material of Vivian’s bloomers. Her excitement grew as her finger touched Vivian’s damp curls.

Releasing Vivian’s breast from her mouth, she stared deeply into her lover’s eyes. "Teach me," Nellie said in an insistent voice as she cupped Vivian’s mound. The brunette gasped with pleasure. Nellie reached down and gripped Vivian’s bloomers. The blonde began to remove Vivian’s undergarment quickly. She needed to see the entire woman who had stolen her heart.

She tossed the last of Vivian’s clothing over her shoulder as she stared at her lover’s black triangle. The sight was so inviting it made Nellie’s mouth water. With a gentle hand Vivian reached out to her and guided one of Nellie’s hands to her. Nellie watched with fascination as Vivian gently took two of her fingers and guided them to her wetness. "Do you feel what you do to me?" Vivian asked her in a breathy tone.

"Yes," Nellie choked out as Vivian guided her fingers across her wetness. Nellie’s desire grew as Vivian’s wetness coated her fingers. Vivian guided her gently showing Nellie how she wanted to be touched.

Nellie could only watch in amazement. Vivian opened her legs wider as she placed Nellie’s fingers against the opening of her womanhood. "But?" Nellie inquired in confusion.

"I’m not a virgin bride," Vivian answered her with a reassuring tone. The revelation filled Nellie with a strange mix of disappointment and desire. Vivian’s hand guided her fingers inside of her. She moaned as she entered her lover, feeling her walls capture her fingers.

Vivian slowly moved Nellie’s wrist so that her fingers plunged slowly in and out of her center. Then her lover gently guided her thumb so that it would brush against her throbbing button as Nellie thrust in and out of her warmth. Vivian released her hand, allowing Nellie to make love to her. Nellie loved the feel of Vivian’s body as her hand began to quicken its pace.

Vivian cupped her backside and gently lifted Nellie. The blonde straddled her lover’s quivering body as Vivian reached down and began to stroke Nellie’s button. Their hands moved in unison as their passion grew. "Please," Nellie gasped. She knew what she was pleading for as she took her lover harder.

"Nellie, I can’t," Vivian panted as her body trembled.

"I belong to you," Nellie insisted as she felt herself nearing the edge. "I don’t want it to be him," she choked out on the verge of tears.

Nellie lowered her body so their naked forms could melt together. Instinctively she knew that they were both nearing the edge. "Please," she repeated urgently. "I’m yours. Take me," she implored her lover.

"Nellie, I love you so much," Vivian whimpered as her fingers were suddenly pressed against Nellie’s opening.

"I love you, Vivian. I need you," Nellie responded honestly as she opened herself to her lover. Their bodies rocked together wildly as Nellie felt her lover enter her. She winced at the sudden jolt of pain. Vivian seemed to be trying to slow down their erotic rhythm. Nellie was too far gone to slow down. Her body arched as she thrust deeper into Vivian.

Nellie still felt the rush of desire despite the pain she was experiencing. She rode against Vivian’s hand furiously. Everything felt so good as the sweat rolled down their naked bodies. Nellie looked down at her lover thinking that she had never seen anything so beautiful as Vivian’s face caught in the throws of passion.

Nellie felt Vivian’s body explode in pleasure beneath her. Quickly she followed her lover into ecstasy. They collapsed together as their hands continued to pleasure one another. Vivian captured her in a fiery kiss as she rolled Nellie onto her side. They plunged in and out of each other as they screamed into the warmth of the kiss.

Finally they clutched each other tightly as their hands stilled. They clung to one another as the waves of passion continued to rush through them. Sated, Nellie rested her head against Vivian’s chest. Their breathing finally calmed as they gently caressed each other.

The cool air flowing across their exposed bodies alerted the lovers to the lateness of the hour. "We need to get going," Vivian said, the regret ringing clearly in her tone.

"I don’t want this to end," Nellie whimpered as she reluctantly released her lover.

"I don’t know what we can do about this." Vivian sighed heavily as she turned away from Nellie.

They sat in an uncomfortable silence. "Is there somewhere we can wash up?" Vivian inquired in a somber tone.

"There’s a creek just past those trees," Nellie responded as she began to gather up her clothing.

She couldn’t look at Vivian, knowing that it would only cause her more pain. She heard Vivian gather up her belongings as well. Nellie led her to the creek where they washed quickly, unable to look each other in the eye. They dressed and picked up the remnants of their picnic, each checking carefully to ensure that there were no signs of their tryst. Nellie hitched the team and they climbed into the buggy.

She fought back the tears and steadied herself. "Can I come to your room tonight?" she asked in a slow fearful voice.

"I don’t think we should," Vivian responded, her voice cracking slightly as she spoke.

Nellie turned to her lover, knowing that she was fighting with her feelings. Nellie reached over and took her by the hand, lifting the larger hand to her lips and placing a gentle kiss on her fingers. She could still smell her scent lingering on them. "I do love you," Vivian confessed as she leaned in and kissed Nellie’s cheek tenderly.

"That’s a start," Nellie responded with a smile as she laid both their hands in her lap.

Nellie signaled the team and started to drive off, keeping a tight hold on Vivian’s hand. "Come to my room tonight," Vivian said softly as she laid her head on Nellie’s shoulder. Nellie smiled, knowing that they were about to begin a very dangerous journey. She also knew that she couldn’t stay away from Vivian. She needed her as much as she needed air to breathe.

THE END

STOLEN MOMENTS (MISS LARILIA'S LESSON - PART TWO)

By Mavis Applewater

June 2002

Disclaimers: Yes, I know who they look like but, despite the resemblance to our two favorite ancient Greek gal pals, this story and characters belong solely to the author. This story may not be reproduced, posted, or sold without the author's permission. This story contains a loving sexual relationship between two consenting adult women if for any reason this isn't something you wish to view then do not read this story or anything else I have ever written. If for any reason it is illegal for you to view such material then get out of here! Feel free to come back when it is no longer a crime for you to read my work.

Thanks to my beta reader Joanne.

As Always For Heather

PART ONE

Vivian waited in her room at the boarding house, knowing that she would come to her. Nellie was like a force of nature. A fire burned deep within the young girl and it drew Vivian in. At first the quiet schoolteacher was certain that she would be able to resist the young blonde's charms. After all, Nellie was to be married. Now the thought of another person touching the girl repulsed Vivian. They had made love and nothing would ever be the same between the two of them.

Vivian knew without question that she should be the one to end their relationship. Yet she was unable to resist. She had been burned by Nellie's fire and now she wished to drown in it. She was pacing the floorboards of her tiny room, knowing that she was one who had given in to the temptation of Nellie's body. She was the one who had nuzzled the young girl's neck. She was the one who started touching the blonde in an inappropriate manner. And she was the one who had taken Nellie's virtue. Now she was waiting for the woman that she was in love with because she had invited her to her room that evening.

"We could go to jail or be hung for what we have done," Vivian said quietly in the darkness. This wasn't a new fear in her life, but now she had endangered an innocent girl who was about to be married. "I must turn her away if she comes to me tonight," she vowed as she stared out onto the darkened streets of Cedar Grove. "I am going to miss this town and her," she choked out just as a shy rapping invaded her solitude.

Vivian fought against the tears as she kept her back to the door. "I can't let her in," she reasoned, knowing that she was causing her lover pain. She held her spot at the window firmly as the shy knocking grew steadily more insistent. "Vivian?" a hushed whisper sounded and the schoolteacher's resolve and good intentions melted away. She ignored the inner voice telling her to stop and threw open the door.

Nellie was trembling as she stepped quietly into the room. Vivian's heart was pounding as she closed the door quietly behind them. "You were planning on turning me away?" Nellie said quietly in confusion.

"Yes," Vivian confessed as she turned away from the sight of her lover had her robe wrapped tightly around her tiny body. "Do you know how dangerous this love is?" Vivian's voice caught slightly as she stared down at the floor. "There are people, some of them are your friends and neighbors, who will think that lynching would be too good for us if we are caught."

"I know, Vivian," Nellie responded firmly. Vivian heard the floorboards creak as her lover stepped closer to her.

"Do you?" Vivian persisted as she felt the warmth of her lover's body standing dangerously close to her.

Vivian trembled as Nellie's fingertips lightly caressed her arm. "I know that I love you," Nellie said in a voice barely above a whisper. "I know that the only obstacle that could keep me away from you would be my death." Nellie wrapped her arms around Vivian's trembling body from behind. The tall schoolteacher was helpless to resist her young lover. Her body leaned into the touch and Vivian was lost in the warmth emanating from behind her.

"I love you," Vivian said in a meek tone, knowing that she would do anything her lover asked of her. Her blue eyes fluttered shut as Nellie's hands made comforting circles across her abdomen. Vivian's head fell back slightly as Nellie's caresses grew bolder. The schoolteacher's nipples hardened as her thighs began to quiver.

Nellie's hands drifted up Vivian's body and gently cupped her breasts as she nuzzled her face into Vivian's back. The tall schoolteacher's back arched as her lover's palms grazed her aching nipples. Vivian released a strangled whimper as Nellie's palms began to trace her nipples in a circular pattern. "I need to feel you," Nellie said softly, her hot breath seeping through the material of Vivian's nightgown.

"Nellie," Vivian panted in response. Her mind was clouded by Nellie's touch as she struggled to tell her lover what she wanted. "Nellie," she repeated, trying to form the words of passion that were pulsating through her body.

"Yes, my love," was the breathy response as tiny fingers began to roll and pinch her aching nipples.

"Aah," Vivian cried out as Nellie's fingers and hands increased their exploration. Vivian clasped her hand over her mouth, praying that none of the other guests had heard her cries of pleasure. Her back arched as she pressed her breasts harder into her lover's hands.

One of Nellie's hands drifted in a slow tantalizing path along Vivian's body while the other continued to tease her breast. Vivian felt her lover's hand on her hip as Nellie began to gather up the soft material of her sleeping gown. "I need to see your beauty," Nellie pleaded hotly against the nape of her neck. Vivian's breathing grew ragged as she felt Nellie's lips brush the back of her neck.

Vivian stepped out of her lover's embrace and turned to her. She found herself lost in a smoky green haze as she pulled up her sleeping gown. Slowly the schoolteacher removed her clothing and tossed it across the room. "You as well, my love," Vivian instructed her young lover in a husky tone that was filled with desire. Her lips trembled with sweet anticipation as she watched her lover's robe fall to the floor. "Everything," she implored the young blonde. "Our clothing must not gather the fragrance of our passion," Vivian cautioned Nellie tenderly. The blonde nodded in understanding as she quickly shed her clothing.

"I love you," Vivian whispered in wonderment as she drank in the glorious slight of her young lover's firm naked body standing before her. She held out her hand, beckoning her lover to join her. Nellie reached out and clasped her hand tightly. Vivian had every intention of leading the beautiful blonde over to her tiny bed. It appeared that Nellie had other desires to satisfy first as she sank to her knees. Vivian inhaled sharply as she looked down at the emerald orbs twinkling up at her.

Nellie's warm breath caressed the dark curls as Vivian's legs opened, inviting her lover in. Vivian stroked Nellie's golden locks as she guided her towards her passion. Nellie clasped Vivian's hips tightly as she placed gentle kisses along her abdomen. Vivian whimpered in response as Nellie's tongue dipped playfully into her navel. Vivian bit down on her lower lip as she fought against the urge to press her lover deep inside her passion. Instead she enjoyed the feel of Nellie's soft silky hair.

Nellie continued to stare deeply into Vivian's eyes as her mouth drifted lowered, further fueling the brunette's longing desire. Vivian's thighs parted even further as her lover clasped her firm backside with one hand and parted her nether lips with the other. "Taste me," Vivian encouraged her in a soft tone. "Taste the passion you have created simply with your smile." Nellie never broke the intensity of her gaze as her tongue dipped into Vivian's wetness.

Vivian's breathing caught as her lover's tongue slid along her slick folds. Nellie murmured with delight as she drank in Vivian's essence. The need to breathe was subdued as Vivian's clit pulsated. Her passion flowed as Nellie buried her face deeper into her cleft. The feel of Nellie's tongue slowly licking away every drop of wetness was driving the schoolteacher insane. Her breath rushed out in a throaty gasp as Nellie captured her throbbing button in her mouth and began to suckle it greedily.

Vivian's hips swayed as she pressed Nellie harder against her. The blonde seemed to understand her urgency and suckled her nub harder as she pressed two fingers against Vivian's center. Vivian's mind was spinning as her lover devoured her clit while her fingers entered her center. "Yes, Nellie," she pleaded helplessly as her hips thrust forward. Nellie's fingers plunged in and out of the warmth of her center. She felt Nellie's teeth grazing her button as she pressed tightly on the back of the blonde's head, driving her deeper inside of her.

"Sweet Jesus," Vivian choked out as she felt her thighs trembling against her lover's face. Nellie's hands and mouth began moving in a frantic rhythm as Vivian clung to her. The schoolteacher's breathing was labored as she neared the edge of pure bliss. Vivian's hips rocked wildly as her passion exploded. Her knees felt weak as her body convulsed against her lover.

Nellie's fingers stilled and remained deep inside of her. Vivian gazed down upon the soft golden hair nestled between her thighs. Her lover was humming happily as she continued to taste the schoolteacher's wetness. Vivian smiled down upon her eager lover. "Nellie," she said, beckoning her lover who was insistent upon continuing her exploration. Vivian could still feel the passion pulsating through her body as she stepped slightly away from Nellie's touch. Her lover grumbled in disappointment as she reluctantly slid her fingers out of the warmth of Vivian's center. "I need to hold you," Vivian implored her as Nellie rested her head on the brunette's quivering stomach.

Nellie stood and wrapped her arms around Vivian's naked body. The schoolteacher wrapped her arms around Nellie's warm body and kissed her golden crown tenderly. "We do not have much time," Vivian explained. "And I need to pleasure you. I need to feel your body responding to my touch." Nellie raised her head and Vivian watched her emerald eyes dancing merrily. "Is it any wonder that you have stolen my heart?" Vivian confessed as she caressed her lover's cheek.

Nellie turned away shyly. Vivian captured the blonde's face gently and turned her towards her gaze. "Why so shy all of sudden?" Vivian teased Nellie brightly.

"I don't know what it is you see in me," Nellie confessed with a blush. Vivian stared back at the younger woman in confusion. "You are so beautiful," Nellie continued as she leaned into Vivian's body.

"Is it possible that you are completely unaware of just how captivating you are?" Vivian said in soft wonderment. Nellie's eyes once again drifted away shyly. "If my words have failed to convince you then perhaps I should show you just how deeply I care," Vivian asserted as she brushed her lips along Nellie's cherubic features.

Nellie moaned softly as Vivian's lips continued to caress her milky white skin. Vivian could feel Nellie's firm body trembling against her own. "Lay down on the bed," she whispered huskily into her lover's ear. Nellie clasped Vivian's hips tightly, her breath caressing the brunette's skin. "Lay on your stomach," Vivian continued firmly. Nellie gasped in response. Vivian felt her lover's wetness pressing against her thigh as Nellie placed a tender kiss in the valley between her breasts.

Vivian's smile grew brighter as Nellie stepped away from her and reclined on her bed. The schoolteacher's clit began to throb in a steady rhythm as she watched her lover roll over onto her stomach. As Vivian crossed the small distance, her eyes never left the sight of Nellie's firm young body lying across her bed, bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight streaming through the window. Vivian climbed up onto the bed, allowing her long dark tresses to brush across her lover's skin. Nellie moaned with pleasure as Vivian's hair tickled her sensitive flesh.

Vivian straddled her lover's body and brushed her long strawberry blonde hair away from the nape of her neck. Vivian lowered her mouth to her lover's neck as she pressed her wetness into the blonde's firm backside. "Can you feel what you do to me?" Vivian said huskily as her warm breath teased the nape of Nellie's neck.

"Yes," Nellie responded weakly as her hips rose slightly to greet Vivian's dark wet curls.

Vivian kissed her way down her lover's body, her mouth and tongue drinking in every delightful inch of Nellie's quivering form. Vivian brushed her aching nipples across Nellie's firm back. Her eager young lover rolled her hips harder against Vivian's passion. Vivian moaned deeply as she licked the length of Nellie's spine. "Please," Nellie pleaded as Vivian began to worship her backside with her hands and mouth.

Vivian ran her hands slowly up and down the length of Nellie's body as the blonde raised herself up on her hands and knees. "Yes, that's it, my love," Vivian encouraged the young blonde before she traced her tongue along Nellie's firm round cheeks. She could hear Nellie's breathing becoming increasingly ragged.

Vivian knelt behind her lover and smiled at the sight of Nellie freely offering herself to her. "So full of love and passion," Vivian said in sheer amazement as she clasped her lover's hips firmly. Nellie moaned as she parted her thighs wider. Vivian sighed deeply as the scent of her lover's arousal invaded her senses. The schoolteacher straddled her lover's hips just as they thrust backward.

Vivian's hips thrust forward to greet her lover's urgent need. The brunette pressed her desire against Nellie. The blonde gasped as she pressed her hips harder against Vivian's wetness. "I need to taste you again," Nellie pleaded. "Please, Vivian, let me taste you." The schoolteacher responded by grinding her hips harder against Nellie's body.

"Not yet, my love," Vivian said softly. "First I need to feel you explode against me." Vivian's body thrust harder as Nellie rocked in a wild rhythm, meeting her every move. She watched in lustful amazement as Nellie's head jerked back, her eyes filled with a wild abandonment. Vivian could feel her own climax growing near as she reached around her lover's body.

Her heart pounded faster as her lover's overflowing desire coated her fingers. Vivian hissed as she dipped her fingers into her lover's wetness. Nellie released a strangled whimper as Vivian entered her center. Their bodies continued to grind together wildly as Vivian felt the walls of Nellie's center grip her fingers tightly. Vivian's control slipped as she ground her throbbing clit frantically against Nellie's body. She began to plunge in and out of the blonde's wetness as the bed creaked from their frenetic pace.

Nellie buried her face in the down pillow as she screamed in ecstasy. Vivian felt Nellie's body trembling as she exploded against the schoolteacher's body. Vivian bit down on her bottom lip so she could stifle her own screams of pleasure. She was still thrusting against Nellie as their bodies arched and collapsed against the bed.

Nellie was still crying out into Vivian's pillow as the brunette continued to ride her body, driving them both over the edge once again. Vivian's movements stilled as she allowed the aftermath of the pleasure to seep through their exhausted bodies. She brushed Nellie's hair aside to reveal the blonde's flushed features. Vivian kissed her sweat-stained brow gently as Nellie smiled up at her.

Once their breathing had calmed, Vivian finally had enough energy to reluctantly roll her body off of Nellie's. The blonde reached out to her and Vivian captured the small hands in her own. "The moon is fading, my love," she said with soft regret as she began to kiss each one of Nellie's delicate digits. It broke the schoolteacher's heart as her lover's smile vanished. "I need . . . ," Nellie started to protest.

Vivian cut off Nellie's pleas as she pulled her lover in for a long sensual kiss. "We need to get cleaned up and you need to return to your own room," Vivian instructed Nellie firmly. She felt a pang in her heart as her lover simply nodded sadly in response. Vivian's body felt cold as Nellie climbed out of her bed.

"Will it always be like this?" Nellie inquired sadly as she poured water from the pitcher into the basin.

Vivian opened her mouth to speak but the words failed to come. She had no answer to offer. Soon Nellie would marry and they would never be allowed to enjoy even these few stolen moments of pleasure. She watched as Nellie's body stiffened before she began to wash up. A tear ran down Vivian's cheek as she watched her lover wipe away all traces of their passion.

As Nellie dressed, Vivian washed her own body before redressing in her night clothing. Both women remained silent as they embraced one another tenderly. After a brief kiss Nellie stepped out of Vivian's room, leaving the schoolteacher alone with her thoughts. Vivian pressed her fingers to her own lips; they still tingled from Nellie's touch.

PART TWO

Nellie hurried downstairs in hopes that she would see Vivian before she left for the schoolhouse. The energetic blonde's heart was pounding at the thought of seeing her lover even for a few brief moments. She still found it hard to believe that just a few short hours ago she was making love to the beautiful schoolteacher. In one day her life had changed completely.

She hurried into the dining room with a tray of food. Her mother seemed surprised at her eagerness to help out. Nellie was happy that her mother was pleased. She had been rather cold towards Nellie when she discovered that the blonde had shunned her intended to enjoy a picnic with Vivian instead. Nellie blushed slightly when she saw the sparkling blue orbs watching her carefully from across the room. She chuckled slightly as she served the other guests, saving Vivian's table for last in order to steal a few lingering moments with her lover. If Nellie's mother had any idea what had transpired between her and the schoolteacher yesterday afternoon, she was quite certain that she would be locked in her room until her wedding day.

"Good morning, Miss Larilia," Nellie greeted her lover brightly as she placed her breakfast on the table.

"Good morning, Nellie," Vivian purred in response. The deep timber of her lover's voice made the blonde's knees tremble in expectation. "Steady," Vivian cautioned her in a low tone.

"You have no idea what you do to me," Nellie whispered softly so that only Vivian could hear her words. "Tonight?" Nellie inquired hopefully as she heard her mother's stern voice calling her.

"Yes," Vivian responded in a rich tone that once again caused Nellie's heart to beat a little faster. Nellie stared deeply into Vivian's crystal-blue eyes, aware of the promise they held. Their fingers brushed slightly, causing Nellie's body to become covered with goose bumps. Nellie smiled slyly before gathering up her tray and answering her mother's frantic call.

"I swear, girl, I don't understand what goes on in that head of yours," her mother chastised her as they entered the kitchen. "Didn't you hear me calling you?"

"Yes, mother," Nellie responded dryly.

"Why are you always bothering poor Miss Larilia?" her mother asked, continuing her tirade.

"We are friends," Nellie snapped quickly, instantly regretting the tone she had taken.

"Excuse me, young lady?" Her mother glared down at her. " I want you to leave that schoolteacher alone. You shouldn't be spending your time with a spinster. Thankfully this nonsense will cease once you are married."

Nellie's heart sank at those words. She couldn't marry Freddy or anyone else. She belonged to the raven-haired beauty sitting in the dining room; the same woman her mother had just instructed her to stay away from. She knew from the tone her mother used that there was no room for debate. For now she would need to settle on sneaking out of her room at night. "Mother, Vivian and I are friends," Nellie explained in a quiet obedient tone.

"Since when do you call her by her first name?" her mother inquired suspiciously.

"We are friends," Nellie reasserted in a gentle tone. "She is only a few years older than myself and the other girls my age are already married. Please, Mother. I don't have anyone to talk to."

"You can talk to me or your father." Her mother sniffed in disdain. "Or Frederick. After all, the two of you are to be married."

Nellie's mind raced quickly. "Mother, how can I talk about the lace for my dress or flowers for the wedding with Freddy? It would bore him to tears," Nellie explained dryly as she rolled her eyes.

"True," her mother conceded. "So come to me. I am your mother." Nellie opened her mouth to protest but her mother held up a firm hand to silence her. "I don't want you spending time with that woman. I never trust a woman her age that isn't married. I could understand if she was unattractive," her mother continued thoughtfully. "But a woman who looks like that and is without a husband . . . Trust me, there is something that she is hiding."

Nellie could see the wheels of her mother's overly curious mind spinning. She wanted to scream that she was what Vivian was hiding, that she was madly in love with the raven-haired school teacher and that there was no way on God's green earth she was going to marry Freddy or any other man. But since she did love her mother and didn't want to be the cause of her dropping dead from a major heart attack, she bit her tongue. "I need to get over to the mercantile," Nellie grumbled before storming upstairs. "If she is going to treat me like a child then fine, I will act like one," she fumed as she slammed every door in her path behind her.

PART THREE

Vivian made her way over to the mercantile. The afternoon sun was beating down as she crossed the dirt streets. She paused for a moment and gazed up at the bright sun, allowing its warmth to caress her chiseled features. It was apparent that Indian summer was upon them. Her students had been restless all day.

She couldn't blame the youngsters. She too had wanted to run off and enjoy the unseasonably warm weather. Her crystal blue eyes drifted towards her goal. The mercantile was only a few feet away and inside was the woman who had captured her heart. She found herself smiling as she resumed her journey.

How nice it would have been to spend the day with Nellie. They could have enjoyed a simple picnic at their special spot. They could have run around barefoot while stealing kisses. It would have been ideal if they lived in a perfect world where she could just bask in the sunshine that poured from her new love. A slight frown clouded her face briefly. Once she caught a glimpse of golden hair shining from inside the mercantile, she found herself smiling again.

Vivian blushed as she stepped inside the shop that could cater to every need from clothing to feed for livestock. Her blush grew deeper; the only thing in the mercantile that she needed was standing behind the counter.

Emerald eyes cast a warm knowing glance her way as she closed the door behind her. Nellie's gaze darkened as she followed Vivian's movements. The schoolteacher knew that her lover was telling her that she needed her as well. Vivian's smile broadened in response before she shyly looked away, afraid that she was going to melt into a pool of desire right there in the town store. She could hear Nellie softly chuckle as she returned her attention to the woman she had been attending to before Vivian made her entrance. Vivian pretended to browse around the store as Nellie finished with her customers.

It was the first of the month and many of the local hands had just been paid; it made for a busy day for the young shop girl. As Vivian browsed through the various sundries, she would stiffen as some of the gentlemen became a little brazen with Nellie. Her heart dropped each time Nellie politely reminded the gentlemen that she was spoken for.

Finally the last of the customers shuffled out of the store and Vivian found herself racing to the counter. They were painfully aware of the large window at the front of the shop; they were in full view of anyone passing by. "Last night was amazing," Nellie said softly as she blushed deeply. Vivian took another quick glimpse around to ensure that they were quite alone. Feeling safe, she brushed her fingertips along the back of her lover's hand.

Nellie gasped as her eyes fluttered shut. The ringing of the bell announced that their bliss was over for the moment. Vivian quickly withdrew her hand, instantly missing the feel of her lover's skin. She looked up at the clock, knowing that Nellie would be stuck in the mercantile for a few more hours. "Thank you for your help, Miss Winslow," Vivian said softly as she walked to the door, almost running into Nellie's mother. "Excuse me, Mrs. Winslow," she apologized as the woman brushed past her. Vivian turned to find her lover watching her. 'Tonight,' she mouthed. Nellie's smile told her everything she needed to know.

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

Later that evening Vivian paced the floor of her tiny room just as she had done the previous night. The moon once again was shining brightly into her little room. This evening Vivian wasn't pacing from fear but from the anxious desire that was filling every fiber of her being. She hadn't seen Nellie at dinner that evening and she began to fear the worse. Mrs. Winslow had become suddenly curt with Vivian, adding another weight to her already fearful mind.

Still, the thought that Nellie would soon be in her arms overrode all of her fears. "You are the flame and I am a helpless moth unable to escape your spell," she said softly as she stared up at the almost full moon. The shy rap on her door made her heart beat just a little faster.

She licked her lips in anticipation as she tightened the ties of the dressing gown covering her naked body. She calmed her erratic breathing as she crossed the room and opened the door. Vivian found her heart's desire standing on the other side. She quickly stepped aside and allowed her younger lover to enter the darken room. Vivian closed the door and turned to her lover. The golden-haired lass' smile melted her heart and her smoldering eyes sent a shiver through her body.

Vivian's knees went weak and she found herself leaning against the door, gripping the knob tightly in order to support herself. "I love it when you wear your hair down," Nellie said in a sultry tone as she approached Vivian's trembling form. Nellie seemed mesmerized as she began to run her fingers through Vivian's long black hair.

As Nellie's fingers drifted slowly through her silken locks, Vivian knew that she had made the right choice when she carefully penned the letter to the Fulton School earlier that evening. She would mail the letter tomorrow and pray that the school would have a position for her. She knew that she had to leave Cedar Grove with or without Nellie. For tonight she existed only for the young woman whose fingers were gently massaging her scalp.

"I've been on the verge of screaming from not being able to spend more time with you today," Nellie confessed as her fingers drifted down the front of Vivian's bosom. The brunette trembled as her lover gently cupped her firm full breasts. "My mother is being impossible. She wants me to stay away from you."

"Do you think she suspects anything?" Vivian choked out as Nellie's hands slowly caressed her aching nipples through the thin material of her dressing gown.

"No," Nellie said as she shook her head. "If it wasn't for the existence of myself and my three siblings, I would swear that my mother knew nothing when it comes to matters of intimacy, " Nellie explained wryly. "Are you naked under your robe?" Nellie inquired in a mischievous tone.

"Yes," Vivian responded with a strangled hiss.

"It is amazing how I can feel your desire without touching you," Nellie murmured as she began to nibble on Vivian's sensitive neck.

Vivian reached between their overheated bodies and loosened the belt of her robe. As Nellie continued to trail her tongue along her neck, the brunette opened her robe to reveal her body to her lover. Nellie gasped with pleasure as Vivian dropped it to the floor. "Take your clothes off, my love," Vivian instructed her in a quiet yet commanding tone.

Nellie stepped away from her slightly, the bravado clearly written across her face. "I think you just enjoy seeing me naked," Nellie teased the grinning brunette. Vivian's face felt flush as she watched Nellie removing her clothing. Unable to contain her desire, one of the schoolteacher's hands began to drift down her body in a slow determined path. She watched the rise and fall of Nellie's bosom become erratic as she pinched and teased one of her own nipples.

Vivian watched with some degree of amusement as her lover halted her movements. The blonde's mouth dropped open and her eyes became fixated on Vivian's wandering hand. A wave of confidence filled the brunette as her hand drifted lower. "Undress for me, my love," Vivian encouraged her stunned lover as her fingers began to caress the damp curls.

Nellie nodded mutely as she continued to stare; Vivian's fingers were now dipping into her wetness. As Vivian gently stroked the swollen nub she watched as her lover's eyes glazed over with a brazen look of passion. Vivian parted her thighs, giving her lover a better view of her glistening fingers. She smiled slyly as she raised her fingers from her wetness; her lover's eyes were firmly fixated on her long fingers as she painted one of her nipples with her own passion.

Nellie growled deeply as she began to remove her clothing with lightening speed. Vivian gazed upon the rapidly approaching form of her lover, taking in the swell of her breasts and the soft supple curve of her hips. Before Vivian could realize what was happening, the blonde captured both of her wrists and raised her arms above her head. Nellie placed a searing kiss on her hungry lips. The blonde growled fiercely as she bit down on Vivian's lower lip.

Vivian was moaning loudly as Nellie's passion pressed urgently against her thigh. She pressed her thigh against Nellie's overflowing wetness. She could feel her lover's desire pouring out over her skin as their hips rocked in a wild sensual rhythm. Nellie's tongue circled her nipple, licking away every drop of Vivian's essence.

The brunette tried to free her hands as her lover captured her erect nipple in the warmth of her mouth. Vivian's hips thrust forward as they drove one another closer to the edge of ecstasy. "I belong to you," Nellie panted against her skin. The feel of her lover's warm breath and the sensual tone of her voice sent a jolt through Vivian's body. "Take me," Nellie pleaded as she released her hold on Vivian's wrists.

Vivian's hands moved quickly down Nellie's quivering body. With one hand she guided Nellie to continue suckling her breast while the other slipped between their sweat-covered bodies. The feel of her lover's desire only further fueled her raging passion. She found Nellie's swollen hood and began to stroke it rapidly. Nellie's teeth nipped at a rose colored nipple while Vivian's fingers continued to stroke her nub wildly. Nellie's body arched against her as her head fell back. The blonde's thigh trembled and then closed quickly, trapping Vivian's hand between them.

Vivian bent her neck and captured Nellie's lips in a fiery kiss. Her tongue grazed Nellie's teeth as it plunged deeply into the warmth of the blonde's mouth, stifling her screams of passion. She felt their bosoms pressing against one another as her lover's body exploded against her own. She continued to savor the taste of her lover's mouth as she felt Nellie's body heaving.

She finally tore her mouth away from Nellie's sweet lips when the need to breathe overwhelmed her. Nellie started to slip out of her grasp and Vivian quickly captured the quivering woman in her arms. She caressed Nellie's back tenderly as the smaller woman clung tightly to her. She nuzzled Nellie's soft golden hair and found herself becoming lost in the faint scent of strawberries. She murmured softly as her closed her eyes and relaxed into the feel of her lover's embrace.

Vivian felt her lover's breathing slowly even out. She opened her eyes to find Nellie's sweet cherub face looking up at her. She simply smiled in response, unable to speak as she became overwhelmed by her lover's smile. She kissed Nellie's brow tenderly before leading her to the bed. Vivian reclined onto the lumpy mattress and pulled her lover to her.

Their bodies melted together as they quickly reclaimed one another's lips. Vivian felt Nellie's fingers drifting along her body in slow shy movements that were causing her body to tremble. As their lips finally released their fiery hold on one another, Vivian reached out and traced Nellie's lips with her fingertips. She couldn't help staring at the beautiful young woman who was lying atop her

.

Vivian had so much to tell her young lover, so many questions that she needed answers to, but now was not the time. Now was for continuing Nellie's education in the ways of passion. In a careful guiding tone, she explained to the blonde exactly what she wanted her to do.

"Won't I smother you?" Nellie questioned her in disbelief.

"No, my love," Vivian responded with a little chuckle. "If you become too heavy, we can lie side by side."

"And we can taste one another?" Nellie continued.

"Yes," Vivian reassured her. "If you want to?"

"Yes," Nellie responded eagerly. She quickly shifted her body so that her passion was within Vivian's reach. Vivian parted her thighs as her lover straddled her face. She could feel Nellie's warm breath teasing her wet curls as she clasped her lover's firm backside and brought her wetness down to greet her watering mouth.

She felt her lover's soft golden hair caressing her thighs as Nellie dipped her tongue into her wetness. Vivian moaned in pleasure as her lover's tongue slid along her slick folds. She lowered Nellie to her mouth and began to drink in the blonde's passion. She suckled her throbbing button in her mouth as she felt Nellie's tongue enter her center. Vivian moaned into Nellie's wetness as they pleasured one another.

Vivian fought to maintain her focus as she suckled Nellie's nub harder. She fought against her own pleasure as Nellie's tongue plunged in and out of her. Soon both women were rocking against one another's mouths as the passion welled up from deep inside of them. Vivian felt her body rising as Nellie's thighs trembled against her cheeks. She was groaning into Nellie's overflowing desire as she suckled her harder while the blonde's fingers replaced her tongue.

Vivian plunged two fingers deep inside her lover's womanhood and felt the walls capture her fingers. Nellie's tongue was now flickering across Vivian's nub. The brunette's fingers and mouth moved in rhythm as she felt her lover's thighs closing. Vivian's shoulders moved to prevent her lover from trapping her hand. She felt her lover's teeth nip playfully at her button and soon they were both screaming into one another's wetness while their bodies bucked wildly.

They clung tightly to each other as they exploded in unison. Vivian's head fell back and she began to lick the inside of Nellie's still trembling thighs. Nellie was panting as Vivian rolled her lover onto her back and quickly buried herself between her lover's thighs. She began to feast upon her lover eagerly, sending over the blonde once again into the throws of ecstasy.

Vivian gathered her lover up in her arms and held her tightly. She would allow Nellie to catch her breath before she needed to send her away. 'Someday,' she silently vowed as she held Nellie tightly.

PART FOUR

Nellie was ready to pitch a fit. Actually, if Reverend Farley hadn't been standing in the mercantile, she would have thrown a full-fledged tantrum that would have made a two-year-old envious. First her mother had forbidden her from serving Vivian. Then she informed Nellie that she was to accompany Freddie on a buggy ride after church services on Sunday. Apparently the two had been talking and neither were pleased with Nellie's distance.

The decision had been made and Nellie had no reasonable recourse. She and Vivian had been lovers for almost three months and her bliss was about to come to an end. As if being told what to do by her mother wasn't enough of a thorn in her side, the stagecoach delivered the mail that afternoon. It brought with it a letter that made Nellie's blood boil.

The letter was for Vivian and it was from the Fulton School in Massachusetts. Despite her valiant efforts to find out what was in the letter, she couldn't see through the envelope. Passersby must have thought she had lost her mind as she stood in the front window holding the envelope up to the sun.

She scolded herself for her childish behavior and tried to convince herself that the letter meant nothing, but she knew it wasn't good news. Vivian was a schoolteacher and the letter was from a school that was thousands of miles away. She heard the afternoon school bell chiming, announcing the end of school for the day. She smiled at Reverend Farley who seemed to be doddering more than usual that day.

Nellie did her best to smile; all the while her heart was racing and her anger grew. As Vivian stepped into the shop, she received an icy glare from her lover. Vivian returned a quizzical look. Nellie's jaw clenched tightly as she tried to hurry the Reverend out of the shop. Nellie was certain that her head was going to explode by the time the Reverend left.

Vivian approached the counter slowly. Before the schoolteacher could speak, Nellie slammed the letter on the counter. "You're leaving?" she spat out in an accusing tone. Vivian blinked in surprise. "When were you going to tell me?" Nellie demanded bitterly.

"I can't stay in Cedar Grove," Vivian started to explain. 'It's true!' Nellie's thought as she fought the tears that were welling up in her eyes. "You don't understand," Vivian said softly as she reached out to caress her cheek. Nellie jerked away from her touch. "I want you to come with me," Vivian choked out. "If we stay here, you'll be married and . . ."

"Yes," Nellie responded brightly. She fought the urge to leap over the counter and wrap her arms around her lover.

"I don't even know if I have the position yet," Vivian said wearily.

"Open it," Nellie demanded as she shoved the envelope into Vivian's hands.

Vivian's hands trembled as she tore open the envelope. She nodded in the affirmative without smiling. Nellie released a heavy sigh. "When do we leave?" Nellie asked urgently.

"If we are to beat the weather, we will need to go soon," Vivian said in a heavy tone. "I start in the fall. I told them that my niece would be joining me."

"We will need to sneak out of town somehow," Nellie said thoughtfully as her mind started to formulate a plan.

"Do you understand what this means?" Vivian asked her cautiously. "You will be giving up everything. Can you do that? Walk away from your family and your home?"

"I wouldn't be giving up everything," Nellie said firmly. "To me, you are everything. So you better start thinking of a good plan that will get us to the east coast."

"With you by my side, I can do anything," Vivian responded with a brilliant smile.

Nellie's heart filled with joy as she lost herself in her lover's smile. She knew that her life had finally begun and somehow she and Vivian would be together.

THE END

NELLIE'S QUEST - MISS LARILIA’S LESSON PART 3

By Mavis Applewater

Disclaimers: There be sex in them thar' hills. This story as well as the two stories that led up to this one, hint read the first two or you won't know what the heck is going on, contain graphic descriptions of two consenting adult women in a loving sexual relationship. If for any reason real or imagined you are uncomfortable with this then do not read this story or anything else I have ever written. The story and its characters are mine and mine alone and may not be reproduced, posted or sold without my permission. If for any reason it is illegal for you to view this material then skedaddle and don't come back until it is no longer illegal for you to view my work.

A very special thank you goes out to my beta reader Mary.

As always this is for Heather

Early September 1884

Nellie snuggled closer to the small campfire she had managed to start in the darkened woods. She blew into her clenched fists in a futile effort to warm her tiny hands. "I can do this," she muttered as she shivered from the cold night air. "I'll be with her soon." She reasoned as she shivered even harder. This time her body wasn't responding to the cold, but from the sudden jolt of fear that trickled through her.

"She must be in Massachusetts by now," the blonde grumbled nervously as her mind conjured up the image of her tall, dark lover whom she hadn't seen in almost two months. If only Nellie's mother hadn't interfered she would have been nestled in her lover's arms that night instead of freezing in front of the pitiful excuse for a campfire.

In her mind's eye she pictured her own naked body sprawled across Vivian's bed on the last night they spent together. It was in the wee hours just before the dawn kissed the sky. Their nights together grew longer with each visit; even though both women were well of aware of the danger of being caught. Each of them had become trapped in the spell that their love had woven.

Vivian was naked lying on her side facing her young blonde lover. Nellie could still recall the hushed whispers as they went over their plan one last time. If she shut her eyes tight enough she could still feel Vivian's blunt fingernails as they slowly traced the supple curve of Nellie's body. "Soon my love," Vivian vowed in a husky tone that never failed to make Nellie quiver with need. "Soon," the schoolteacher repeated before Nellie slipped from her the room to prevent their relationship from being revealed to prying eyes.

Nellie began her day feeling confident that their plan was set and soon they would begin their new life together. Vivian would leave town the next morning in full view of the townsfolk, and Nellie would slip away a few nights later.

Each of them knew that it might take up to a fortnight before Nellie could make her escape. They hated being separated even for such a short time. Yet, the both of them understood that it was the only way no one would suspect that Nellie run off to be with Vivian. If Nellie vanished the same night as Vivian some one in the dingy burg of Cedar Grove might actually put things together.

Vivian was reluctant to accept the plan at first. She was wary of her young lover traveling alone at night especially since the girl had never traveled as far as the next town. Nellie quieted her fears, reminding her that she had mapped out a route off the beaten and path and would disguise herself as a man. The blonde could still see her lover's concern that last night as each of them pretended to enjoy the going away party the townspeople had thrown for Vivian at the restaurant Nellie's parents owned.

For the shop girl the party had been an exercise in torture. She wasn't allowed to speak to Vivian since her mother had forbidden it months ago. Freddie clung by her side and whenever someone spoke to her all they wanted to know were details of her upcoming nuptials. Thankfully Freddie and her mother were more than willing to supply the details of the one event Nellie had silently vowed never to attend.

The only bright spot during the hideous party were the secret glances she and Vivian stole. That night after everyone had gone home and Nellie was convinced her parents had retired for the evening she snuck out of her room just as she had almost every night for the past year. Fate turned on her with a cruel blow when she discovered her mother standing in the hallway of the family quarters demanding to know where she was sneaking off.

Nellie never knew if her mother believed her quickly blurted out excuse of needing to relieve herself or not. Mrs. Winslow seemed to be far too focused on Nellie's manners and attitude regarding her wedding. To Nellie's credit she bit her tongue and allowed her mother to spew out her lengthy lecture. Dejected Nellie returned to her room knowing that her mother would not be settling down for the night and she would be unable to sneak over to the boarder's rooms and crawl into Vivian's awaiting embrace.

Nellie's mother detained her in the kitchen the following morning robbing her of the chance to wish her lover a safe journey. Nellie managed to swallow her pain knowing that Vivian was only taking the stagecoach as far as Rumford and then she would wait for her lover to join her at the Rumford Inn. The brunette promised to place a lit candle or lantern in the window so Nellie would know which room she was in and could sneak in under the cover of darkness.

Rumford did not offer much except that it was a busy crossroads where people came and went on the new railroad so quickly that no one really took notice of strangers. From there they could catch the first train heading East and be half way across the country before anyone realize which way Nellie had headed.

It was a simple plan with one fatal flaw, Mrs. Winslow. Nellie had one suitcase packed for her journey, which she had hidden under her bed. Her mother must have suspected something was going on with her troublesome daughter because the day before Nellie was to make her escape her mother searched her room. Her Mother was so enraged that she locked her youngest child in her room vowing only to release her on the day of her wedding.

Nellie had hoped that her father would come to her rescue but this seemed to be the one and only time he agreed with his overbearing wife. Nellie didn't let the set back break her spirit, since thankfully she had hidden the men's clothing, a revolver and money she had liberated from her father's mercantile beneath a floorboard in her room. She didn't feel any guilt or remorse about taking the items or the money.

The money she had skimmed from the till was the exact amount of the dowry her father had promised to pay the Cartwright family. After working in the family business for free since she could walk Nellie felt that she was far more entitled to the cash than Freddie's family. Her only problem was just how she was going to escape from her bedroom located on the third floor of the boarding house and away from the guest's rooms. She could only ponder what the wagging tongues of the town's busy bodies were saying about her sudden disappearance.

Only her parents, Jack, Melinda and Freddie knew that she was locked up in her bedroom. What none of them knew was that she was spending her time alone to construct a rope from her clothing and spare sheets. Making a binding that would be strong enough to support her weight was a painstaking task that took much to long.

Almost two months later, just a week shy of her wedding day, she had finally completed her task. On a moonless night she shimmied down the rope dressed in men's clothing. After she dropped a few feet to the ground below she spied Melinda watching her from the kitchen window. Her heart seized with fear until the cook simply winked and waved at her before drawing the curtains.

Nellie quietly scurried to the stable. She packed her meager belongings in a saddlebag, took one of her favorite horses, and galloped off into the night towards Rumford. She never glanced back as she left the only home she had ever known.

*****

The following night she slipped into Rumford unnoticed by the few strangers that were wandering the dirt covered Main Street at the late hour. She knew that it was too much to hope that she would find a light burning in a window. Yet, she held onto a sliver of hope that Vivian had waited for her.

She circled the Inn three times tears filling her emerald orbs as she turned each corner looking in vain for a light in one of the windows. She sniffed as she wiped her nose on the sleeve of her dark cotton shirt. She held firm in the belief that Vivian had waited as long as she could before she had to start heading east. Nellie reassured herself with the knowledge that she knew where Vivian was heading, and once the petite blonde caught up with her lover, they would be together forever.

She threw the saddlebag containing her money and clothing over her shoulder. She slid the revolver into the waistband of her pants and walked the horse over to the stable. She woke up the caretaker. The sleepy man gaped at her as they came to an agreement regarding a fair price for her horse. She knew that man must have thought she was crazy dressed the way she was. Still he gave her money, took the horse, and gave her directions to the train station.

Nellie lurked in the shadows until the following morning when she could buy a ticket and board the first train heading east. She pulled the Stetson down over her face as she took her place on the wooden bench on the train. She held her saddlebag close as she carefully stayed as far away from the other passengers as possible.

She tapped the saddlebag nervously as she waited for the train to leave the station. She gasped as she peeked out the window and spied her father and Freddie standing on the platform talking to one of the baggage handlers. "Please," she blew out in a hushed tone as her heart pounded violently. She scrunched down in her seat when she saw her father looking in her direction. Thankfully the train whistle blew and the large black iron beast jerked into motion.

Nellie's palms were sweating as she silently willed the train to hurry along. She was uncertain if either Freddie or her father had seen her. She also couldn't be certain that no one in Rumford had noticed her and would share the information with her father and former beau. She would have to get off at the next stop and change direction in an effort to throw them off track. She hated adding more time to her journey, yet she knew that she had to be careful. If either of them found her they would drag her kicking and screaming back to Cedar Grove and the wedding chapel.

She couldn't sleep on the way to the next stop in Horse Creek. Nellie grumbled thinking that she was finally on her way and still wouldn't be across the county line by the end of the day.

In Horse Creek she lucked into getting the last seat on a stagecoach, which was heading towards Cheyenne. She bought her ticket for the Deadwood Stage praying that the infamous stage wouldn't be robbed that day as it had been so many times in the past. The journey was arduous to say the least. Normally Nellie would have been completely enthralled by the adventure she was embarking on. Knowing that the love of her life may have moved on and forgotten her was plaguing her every thought.

The journey took her to Bear Springs, Chugwater, Chug Springs, Eagle's Nest, Fort Laramie, Rawhide Buttes, Hat Creek, Cheyenne Crossing and finally up to Deadwood. With each passing mile Nellie felt confident that her family was not going to track her down.

By the time the small blonde finally arrived in Cheyenne County, Nebraska every muscle in her body ached. Thankfully she had finally arrived in a place where the Union Pacific Railroad stopped and she could start heading east. She tossed her precious saddlebag over her shoulder and sought out the general store.

She purchased a tablet of writing paper and composed a letter that could never express everything she needed to say. Those words would remain silent until she was face to face with the one who still held her heart. The words she did choose were careful and precise knowing that her letter could very likely fall into the wrong hands.

To Vivian Larilia

C/O The Fulton School for Young Women

Andover, Massachusetts

From Cornelia Larilia

C/O General Delivery

Deadwood, Nebraska

September 13, 1884

My Dear Aunt Vivian,

You must be frantic with worry. Please accept my apology for missing our meeting. I was delayed when Mother took a turn for the worse. I will explain everything once I arrive in Massachusetts. As I pen this note I am preparing for my journey East. I will be leaving on the morning train. I eagerly look forward to reuniting with you. As you know the trip to Boston will be lengthy. I will contact you once I arrive. Again there is much to tell you.

Sincerely Your Loving Niece,

Cornelia

She used her given name and Vivian's last name just as they had planned to do once they arrived at Fulton. She said a silently prayer as she sealed the letter in an envelope and paid the clerk. 'Please understand' Her silent prayer continued as she walked out of the store and crossed the street to the small boarding house.

For the first time since her journey began, Nellie took a long hot bath and relaxed in a real bed. Sleep eluded her that night as she anxiously waited for morning. Before the sun had risen she was dressed in a simple cotton dress and hurrying down to the railway station. Her hands were trembling as she purchased her ticket and prepared to once again embark on her journey that would hopefully end when she was safely wrapped in her lover's arms.

Along the journey Nellie tried to enjoy her adventure. She was careful whom she chose to speak to. Her normally friendly nature in the past would lead her to chat on endlessly, but she wasn't back home in the safe confines of Cedar Grove any longer, and wisely, opted to be more selective.

When she would find some one to share a conversation with she stuck with the story she and Vivian had contrived. She was Cornelia and she was on her way to live with her only relative her Aunt who was a schoolteacher. She didn't miss the looks of pity the other passengers would cast upon her when she told them of her plans. 'If you only knew that I'm not off to lead the mundane life of spinster but finding my way to the embrace of the most amazing woman who ever walked the face of the earth,' She would often think smugly.

She never spoke with gentlemen who were traveling without their families. Yet, they still sought out the young blonde. She almost came to blows on more than one occasion, but thankfully, the nice men who worked on the train always intervened on her behalf.

The journey was very long and boring to say the least. Nellie had only her memories of Vivian to keep her company throughout most of the trip until they reached Colorado where she met the Fuller family. The Fullers were a lovely couple traveling with their two-year-old son. They were traveling all the way to Maine to visit Mrs. Fuller's mother.

Nellie eagerly offered to assist them with the care of their rambunctious child. "Did you enjoy growing up in Nebraska?" Mrs. Fuller inquired midway through their journey as her son Joshua slept in her lap.

"Oh, yes," Nellie lied having told everyone that she was from Nebraska. "I am looking forward to seeing my Aunt Vivian, she is a very special person. I still can not believe that a train can take you all the way across the country."

"The one good thing to come out of the war," Mr. Fuller said with a heavy sigh. "The tracks are finally connected. You've never been back East?"

"No sir," Nellie exclaimed eager to finally see her new home and her lover.

"Boston should be interesting for you," He chuckled. "I bet you'll be missing all that open space and quiet."

"I guess I'll find out," Nellie laughed. "I can't wait."

"We lived in Boston for a few years after the war," Mrs. Fuller explained. "All that noise and people was just too much for us. We joined a wagon train heading west, and when we reached Colorado we just knew it was where we belonged. I hope you find that someday."

"I know I will," Nellie reassured the older woman knowing that she had already found what she was seeking and it couldn't be found on any map. "I just hope that I can find a way to earn my keep," She added in a troubled tone. "I hear that there are a lot of factories that are always hiring."

"You'd do best to steer away from that life," Mr. Fuller cautioned her in a protective tone. "It will make you old before your time. Surely your Aunt knows of some respectable establishments."

"Aunt Vivian is very wise when it comes to these matters," Nellie reassured him as she said a silent prayer that Vivian would still welcome her after all of this time.

The Fuller's had taken the young girl under their wing warding off any and all prospective suitor's until the train finally chugged into Boston. "Be careful," Mrs. Fuller cautioned her as she hugged the small blonde.

"I will and enjoy your visit with your mother," Nellie smiled as she ruffled the squirming Joshua's dark hair.

"Don't forget you can take a train to Andover," Mr. Fuller informed her. "Just ask at the station they run pretty regular. But if you have to stay over night don't forget about Mrs. Beasley's Boarding House; you just need to hop onto the Back Bay Trolley."

"I have the directions you gave me," she reassured the kind man as she gathered up her saddlebag and with a wave to her new friends, departed the train.

The first thing Nellie noticed was all of the people hurrying about and the noise of the city. The hustle and bustle was a far cry from her quiet existence back in Cedar Grove. She looked around as people bumped into her without so much as a backward glance. She clung tightly to her saddlebag keeping the pocket close to her bosom as she tried to push her way through the crowd and to the ticket window.

"Good Day," She greeted the tired looking man with the neatly pressed black suit who was behind the bars at the ticket counter.

"Good Day to you Miss," He greeted her with a very odd accent.

"I need a one way ticket to Andover," She politely explained.

"Next one leaves at seven fifteen tomorrow morning," He explained.

"That will be fine," Nellie agreed.

"That will be seventy five cents," He informed her.

She blinked in surprise at the large sum as she pushed a bill under the window. He moved quickly preparing her ticket. "Thar' you go," He said as he slid the ticket and her change through the slot. "It will be departing from that track right over thar'."

She nodded as she looked over to where the man was pointing his gnarled finger. "I need to get to this address," She continued holding up the slip of paper Mr. Fuller had written Mrs. Beasley's address on.

"Yup," He said. "Just step outside the station the trolley for the Back Bay should be passing soon. Get off at the hospital it's about a block up the street across from the hospital.

She thanked the man and headed out of the busy station. The flurry of activity on the street took the young shop girl by surprise. She jumped when she heard the clanging of a bell. Her emerald eyes widened with amazement when she spied the large open wagon with people seated on benches. On the top of the strange carriage the words Back Bay were boldly printed. She raced over and much to her surprise managed to catch the trolley. She paid the fare and took the only open seat available.

The horse-drawn trolley chugged and swayed down the bustling streets of the city. Nellie was so caught up with watching she almost missed her stop. She got off at the large hospital. She checked the slip of paper and looked up and down the busy street. "Everything is so big here," She gasped in wonderment as she headed up the street. She got lost and wandered around the block for almost an hour until she finally stopped and asked for directions.

Her feet were swollen and her legs aching when she finally found the Charles Street address. She had wished that she were still dressed as a man knowing that her feet would be far more comfortable during her trek. She knocked on the front door of the brick building and waited for someone to respond.

A plump white haired woman answered the door. The woman stared down at the little blonde curiously as Nellie tried to regain her wits. "Mrs. Beasley?" She politely inquired.

"Yes," The woman greeted her cautiously.

"I was given your address by Mr. Adam Fuller and his wife," Nellie courteously explained. "They said that you might be able to provide me with lodgings for the evening."

"Oh my how are Adam and Lucy?" The woman gushed as she stepped aside-allowing Nellie to enter her home. "Come in child."

"They are well," Nellie answered as she gratefully stepped inside the foyer. "I met them on the train."

"Off to visit Lucy's Mama I suppose," Mrs. Beasley chuckled as she led Nellie further into the well kept home. "Their little one must be adorable. I was so happy to hear that after all these years they had finally been blessed. And shame on them for not stopping by. They did the right thing sending you here with all the shady places in this city not to mention the foreigners," Mrs. Beasley rattled on as Nellie quirked her eyebrows at the woman's comments. "Now how long will you be staying? Are you looking for work? I can give you a reference?"

"I only need a room for this evening," Nellie chuckled at the woman's excitement. "I am traveling up to Andover in the morning to join my Aunt. She is a teacher at the Fulton School. I will be looking for employment once I join her."

"Stay away from those factories," Mrs. Beasley cautioned her. "If you stay out of the North you should be fine. Fulton now that is a fine place. Here you are. It isn't much but should do you for the night. The bath is down the hall."

Nellie's eyes lit up at the sight of a comfortable bed and the mention of a bath. "Do you need to get in touch with your Aunt?" Mrs. Beasley inquired. "She must be worried."

"Yes, but how?" Nellie asked in confusion. Mr. Fuller had explained that Andover was at least twenty-one miles outside of Boston.

"Ring the school," Mrs. Beasley explained in a curious tone. "Ring?" Nellie asked as she set her saddlebag down.

"Yes," Mrs. Beasley explained in a slow careful tone. "I know that the school has a telephone."

"A telephone?" Nellie blurted out like a small child. "I'm sorry. I've heard of them, of course, I have just never seen one."

"My goodness child where in the god forsaken wilderness have you been living?" Mrs. Beasley gasped in a horrified tone as she led Nellie back downstairs and to the back parlor.

"Nebraska," Nellie lied in a dry tone.

"I just love my telephone," Mrs. Beasley chattered on as she led the girl over to a small wooden box that had a black cone sprouting out from the center and a crank on the side. "I still don't understand why everyone hasn't gotten one," She continued as she picked up an earpiece and pressed it closely to her ear while she turned the crank vigorously.

The plump woman pulled over a stool and plopped her large frame down. "Clara? Yes it is me who else?" The woman laughed as she shouted into the cone. "Fine, you know it still aches every time it rains."

Nellie shuffled nervously as she listened to Mrs. Beasley prattle on and on about her various aliments and what the neighbors were doing. She blew out a sigh of relief when Mrs. Beasley finally got to the part about needing to place a call to the Fulton School. "Yes in Andover," Mrs. Beasley groused. "One of my guests needs to let her Aunt know that she has arrived safely. What is your Aunt's name dear?"

"Vivian Larilia," Nellie quickly supplied.

"Vivian Larilia," Mrs. Beasley repeated into the strange contraption. "Tell her it is from her niece . . . "

"Cornelia," Nellie quickly supplied.

"Cornelia," Mrs. Beasley shouted. "No Cornelia. Cornelia!" The woman shouted once again. "Just tell her it is her niece. For pity sake how many relatives do you think she has traveling in from Nebraska? This is going to take a little while they will ring back," Mrs. Beasley explained as she hung up the telephone.

"Simply amazing," Nellie said as she stared at the wooden box.

"Well we need to get you fed while we wait for your Aunt to call," Mrs. Beasley explained.

Nellie nodded in agreement and returned upstairs to freshen up and retrieve the money so she could pay Mrs. Beasley for the room and the telephone call. After a light supper a strange ringing filled the small home. Nellie was startled as Mrs. Beasley rushed to the back parlor. Nellie dutifully followed the plump woman.

After Mrs. Beasley exchanged some pleasantries with the operator she handed Nellie the earpiece. "Just talk into here," She instructed the girl before walking away. It didn't escape the blonde's notice that Mrs. Beasley didn't travel very far.

"Hello?" Nellie said with a nervous excitement. "Hello?" She repeated when she didn't hear anything in response.

"Nellie?" Came the echoing response.

"Aunt Vivian is that you?" She answered the voice that sounded like it was coming from the bottom of a well.

"Yes," Came the cold response that still sounded like an echo. "Where are you?"

"Boston," Nellie blurted out excitedly. "I will be arriving in Andover in the morning."

"Why?" The echo coldly inquired.

"Excuse me?" Nellie choked as she felt her knees buckle.

"Go home," Vivian's voice echoed.

"I am," Nellie fumed.

"Go home," Vivian repeated.

Nellie's throat closed as she felt the tears welling up. "If you can't meet my train I understand," She dryly explained fighting against the pain as Mrs. Beasley looked on. "I will see you tomorrow."

She held her breath as she waited for Vivian to say something. All she heard was a faint clicking sound then a stranger's voice informing her that the other party had hung up. "No, I don't have any other calls," Nellie managed to choke out as she responded to the operator's inquiry. "Thank you," she added before she hung up.

"Thank you Mrs. Beasley," She said as she managed to conjure up a convincing smile. "That was simply amazing," She added as she motioned towards the telephone. "The folks back in Nebraska will never believe it."

"Welcome to the big city," Mrs. Beasley laughed.

"I think I need to take a bath and get some sleep," Nellie explained with a slight yawn. "After my trip I really need to clean out more than a few cob webs."

"I can only imagine," Mrs. Beasley smiled. "Good night Cornelia."

Nellie wasn't lying about needing a bath, but she knew in her heart she wouldn't be able to sleep that night. 'Why would Vivian send me away?' She silently sobbed as she tried to understand what had changed her lover's feelings in such a short time. Despite the comfortable bed she tossed and turned all night as Vivian's painful words replayed in her mind.

Somehow the small blonde managed to drag her tired body out of bed. She cleaned up, dressed and gathered her meager belongings. She joined Mrs. Beasley and some of the other boarders for a simple breakfast. Mrs. Beasley made some very unnerving inquiries during the meal. Nellie answered politely never revealing what had transpired between her and Vivian during their brief conversation.

Nellie's jaw clenched tighter each time Mrs. Beasley asked if she was certain that she should take the train that morning. 'Apparently the operator listens and shares what she hears,' Nellie mentally fumed at the way Mrs. Beasley had invaded her privacy. The blonde managed to contain her anger as she thanked Mrs. Beasley and departed for the train station.

Once again she boarded the trolley and traveled the bustling streets of Boston. She would have enjoyed the brief trolley ride if only her heart wasn't breaking. She held firm to her resolve that she and Vivian were meant to be together and once the schoolteacher saw her, everything would be all right.

By the time the train rolled into the station at Andover Nellie was not only sick to her stomach, but she had almost chewed a hole in the inside of her mouth. Basically the small blonde had worked herself into such a frenzy she was ready to explode. 'Please be waiting for me,' She thought fearfully as she hurried towards the exit on the train.

Her eyes drifted up and down the wooden platform searching desperately for any sign of her tall, dark lover as the conductor helped her step down onto the platform. 'Please Baby!' She screamed silently as she searched the crowd for some small glimmer of hope.

Nellie's heart was breaking as she watched the crowd thinning and still no sign of her lover. "Fine," the tiny blonde huffed as she clutched her saddlebag and stormed through the train station. "If she thinks I'm just going hop on a train and pretend nothing happened she has another thing coming," Nellie continue to ramble under her breath as she looked up and down the city street. Andover was a pretty picture with tree lined streets and neatly trimmed lawns. It wasn't the bustling metropolis Boston was but it was certainly more progressive than the dirt streets she had left behind. "I didn't climb out my bedroom window, steal a horse, travel across the country, end up smelling like an over worked mule just be sent back like some child." Her tirade was reaching full force when she suddenly stopped and looked up and down the street.

She had no idea, which way she should start walking. She fought against the urge to simply collapse onto the sidewalk and burst into tears. Instead she swallowed a few deep breaths and calmed down. She needed to make a decision. Bursting into the school and confronting Vivian would only get the brunette dismissed and not help Nellie win her hand.

"First things first, I need to find a place to live," She reasoned out loud as she began to stroll down the street. "Then I need to find a job."

She began to wander aimlessly through the town looking around for a boarding house that would be suitable. Her travels took her further away from the main streets, once again with aching feet and a crushed spirit. She dropped her saddlebag and leaned on a white picket fence. The sight just beyond the fence was a quaint little house that brought a smile to her lips. "Now that is kind of house I would love to share with Vivian," She said softly as a tall gray haired gentleman emerged from the front door. "Great now the owner is going to run me off. Another new experience."

"Good day," The man warmly greeted her with a smile and a tip of his hat. "Are you interested?"

"I beg your pardon?" Nellie choked out as the anger that was welling up inside of her tinted her cherub cheeks with blotches of red.

"The house?" He quickly amended his statement. "I don't recognize you and I thought perhaps you were here to see the house. Will your husband be arriving soon?"

"No I'm not . . .," Nellie's words drifted off as she met his gaze. "The house is for sale?"

"Yes," He explained in a curious manner. "Miss Gulch retired from Fulton and moved to Philadelphia to be with her sister. I had hoped that the new teacher would be interested. I thought that with her niece joining her it would better suit her needs rather than the dormitory. Sadly, she said she could only afford to rent it, and Miss Gulch prefers to simply sell it."

"Yes," Nellie breathlessly exclaimed as he stepped slightly away from her. "My apologies," She laughed as she glanced over at the quaint little house. She hooked her arm in his and guided the unsuspecting fellow back into the yard. "Aunt Vivian told me about this place. Vivian Larilia," She added as he gave her a questioning look. She was relieved as she saw the man visibly relax as they stepped up onto the wrap around porch and entered the house. "I am Cornelia and you are?"

"Forgive my manners Miss Larilia," He said as he removed his felt hat. "Sven Gustafson. A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"The pleasure is all mine," Nellie offered in a charming tone. "Now down to business. How much is Miss Gulch seeking for this charming little abode."

"One thousand," He said with a brilliant smile.

"One thousand?" Nellie pondered knowing that with the money she had skimmed from her father she could easily afford the house. Yet spending all of those years working at the mercantile she had learned how to barter. The men who came and went would talk freely and Nellie learned much more about construction than a girl really should. Men had the silly notion that women either couldn't understand them when they talked about tools and building, or they were completely unaware of the fact that sound traveled.

"That would be a fair price if the roof wasn't in such poor condition. And, of course, despite the fresh coat of paint I see that many of the fixtures and doors need to be replaced." Another benefit of her up bringing at the family boarding house. Following Jack and her father around when she was bored gave her a lesson in the up keep of their home.

"Come now Mr. Gustafson," She chastised him. "I know you are a reasonable man and wouldn't dream of taking advantage of two women who are new to your community."

"I wouldn't dream of it," He conceded seeming to understand that this was not going to be the easy sale he had assumed it would be.

After a lengthy negotiation and a trip to Mr. Gustafson's office and a trip to the records office Nellie was the proud owner of the tiny little house. The small blonde was elated and terrified. She got the house at very good price, which still left her with a substantial amount of money. Still the house needed the repairs she had used as a bargaining chip against the eager realtor. Add in the taxes, furnishing her new empty home, the yearly up keep and her day to day living expenses Nellie could easily find herself in a very deep hole in a relatively short period of time.

She went directly to the bank once she had the deed in her hands. She opened an account in hers and Vivian's names. She deposited most of the rest of her money for safe keeping after Mr. Gustafson almost fell over when she paid him the full price for the house in cash. She wasn't concerned about Mr. Gustafson, but there was always the chance that he might mention it to someone else who would think that the blonde would make an easy mark.

The next stop was the general store where she picked up a few supplies to get her through the next few days. She also picked up all of the local gossip. She knew that she would since after years of lurking behind the counter at her family's store she learned it was the spot where most of the town would meet. The most important piece of information she acquired was that the Fulton School was just up the hill from her new home.

Vivian was just a short walk away from her front door. The only question she possessed was how to get Vivian to not only agree to knock on her front door but move into their new home. It could be difficult since Nellie was quite certain Vivian wasn't speaking to her. She brushed aside all thoughts of her present quandary as she proceeded to the lumber mill and ordered the materials she needed to repair the roof and fixtures.

She was exhausted by the time she entered Miss Grace's shop to pick out some material to make some new clothing. The dress she was wearing was more than a little dilapidated. Once inside the shop she furrowed her brow. The crease in her forehead grew deeper as she looked around having trouble finding what she needed.

She had heard that Lillian Grace was a very talented dressmaker from the women buzzing around the general store. She also heard that most of the women only shopped there when they had no choice. Looking around the shop and seeing the owner who was far too busy with stitching to assist her she now understood why the women in town didn't frequent the woman's shop.

"This is all wrong," Nellie blew out as she looked around.

"I beg your pardon," The bird-like woman who was stitching asked as she looked up from her project.

"My apologies," Nellie offered as she turned towards the irate looking woman. "But the shop is set up all wrong. You've made it difficult for your patrons to find what they need," Nellie explained as she moved some of the fabrics around and formed a small neat display on the table. "I can see that you are very talented," Nellie added as she brushed her fingers along the garment that was neatly folded on the stunned woman's lap. "You should let your potential customers see your work. A window display like the shops in Boston would be nice, plus around the shop as well," Nellie continued. "And the small sundries should be on the counter not behind it. And I've overstepped my bounds," Nellie winced once she realized what she had just said.

"Who are you?" The woman asked with a shy smile.

"Nellie," She offered as she held out her hand. She decided to drop her formal name before she was stuck with it forever. "My aunt and I just moved into town. She's a teacher at Fulton."

"I am Lillian Grace," The woman offered as she firmly shook Nellie's hand. "Are you a teacher as well?"

"No," Nellie laughed. "In fact I will be seeking employment. I just don't know what skills I have to offer."

"I'd say you have a talent," Lillian laughed. "I wish I could hire you but as you can see business isn't very good."

"It could be," Nellie theorized. "The problem is that you are an artist not a salesgirl. You need someone to handle the business and the customers. You already have a firm reputation but trying to run the shop takes away from your creations. I am willing to wager that if you hire the right person you would be the premiere dressmaker in the county."

"Sounds like I should hire you," Lillian responded thoughtfully.

"Well I do have the experience," Nellie explained as she brightened at the idea. "I grew up behind the counter at my father's mercantile. I know more about selling than a girl needs to."

"I wish I could afford to hire," Lillian said with disappointment. "So far everything you've told me would bring in twice the business I already have. But it still wouldn't be enough to pay you a decent wage."

Nellie thought about what the woman had just said. "What if I worked on commission?" Nellie volunteered. "You would only have to pay me a little bit of what I sell. That way I could fix up the shop and you would have time to make your wonderful creations."

"I'd be a fool not to say yes," Lillian readily agreed. "If you are half as good at selling to my clients as you are with me then I'll be rich. When can you start?"

Nellie accepted the offer and headed back to her new home with a bolt of cloth and an order for a new dress both at a large discount, plus Lillian threw in the name of a good handyman who could fix up Nellie's new little home.

Nellie felt good when she finally returned to her new home. She put away her few purchases and looked around her empty home. "I need to get some furniture," she noted as she curled up her lip.

"Among other things," the familiar sultry voice echoed from behind her.

Nellie's heart leapt as she spun around to find Vivian leaning in the front doorway. "Vivian," she gasped as she stared at the woman who had filled her every thought since the day they had met. Nellie could feel the electricity flowing between them as each of them stood there staring at the other. "Did you get my letter?" Nellie asked in a hushed tone.

Her heart was breaking as Vivian's eyes drifted to the floor and the schoolteacher closed the door as she stepped into the foyer. "Yesterday, just before you called," Vivian explained in a dejected tone.

"Stupid," Nellie admonished herself as she slapped her forehead. "I should have wired you. I didn't even think that my letter was probably traveling on the same train that I was. But Vivian if you got my letter then why did you tell me to go away?"

"I promised myself I wouldn't see you," Vivian muttered as she continued to gaze down at the floor.

"Why?" Nellie pleaded.

Vivian's gaze shot up and Nellie stepped back from the fiery gaze burning into her body. "Because I do not keep company with married women," Vivian hissed in anger.

"What are you talking about?" Nellie screamed as she stared at the tall schoolteacher with utter disbelief.

She could see the pain clearly written across Vivian's chiseled features. "I waited and waited until I had to leave Rumford," Vivian choked out as tears filled her eyes. "Before I left you never even said goodbye. Then when I arrived the Reverend sent me a copy of the Cedar Grove newspaper so I could still know what is going on back there."

"I still don't understand," Nellie pleaded as she took a shy step towards her lover.

"You wedding announcement was in there," Vivian sobbed as she buried her face in her hands.

"Vivian," Nellie called out to the sobbing woman as she closed the distance between them. Vivian jerked away. "Vivian listen to me, I didn't marry him. How could I marry him when it is you who holds the key to my heart?"

Vivian met her gaze as Nellie's hands rested on the taller woman's hips. The blonde now understood why Vivian told her to leave. She sat in her hotel room for weeks lighting a candle to signal a lover who never came. She arrived only to read that Nellie was to be married. Vivian had assumed that the blonde had changed her mind and given up on the love that they shared. "The night before you left and the morning afterward my mother intruded on my attempts to see you. Then not long after you left my mother found my suitcase," Nellie explained as she brushed the tears from Vivian's face. "After she confirmed that Freddie and I weren't eloping she locked me in my room. I was only allowed out to bathe. I even ate my meals in that room. No one saw me except for my mother and the occasional visit from Freddie. I climbed out the window and stole a horse the first chance I got. Unfortunately the first chance I got was two months too late."

"She locked you up?" Vivian gasped as she wrapped her arms around the smaller woman.

"Yes," Nellie confirmed as she sank into her lover's embrace. "I couldn't take the train from Rumford after I spotted my father and Freddie at the station. I took the stagecoach and picked up the rail in Nebraska. Which is where I am from in case anyone asks."

Vivian tilted the blonde's head up with her fingers. Nellie melted into the searing kiss her lover placed on her lips. Nellie moaned as her lover's tongue parted her lips and began to explore the warmth of her mouth. Unable to breathe, and feeling her knees buckle, the blonde forced herself to end the kiss. "How I missed that," she panted as she brushed her tingling lips with the tips of her fingers.

"I love you," Vivian choked out as she nestled the nape of the blonde's neck.

"And I love you my darling," Nellie said with deep sigh as she took a slight step back and took her lover by the hand. "Now tell me, what do you think of our new home?"

"I love this house," Vivian said with a smile. "I had wanted to rent it for us even when I thought you had abandoned me. How did you convince them to rent it?"

"I didn't," Nellie boldly explained as she picked up the comforter and pillows she had purchased that day.

"I don't understand?" Vivian stammered as Nellie reclaimed her hand and guided her up the staircase.

"I bought it," Nellie explained as the reached the top step.

"How?" Vivian asked in bewilderment as they fumbled through the dark hallway.

"The day you received the letter from Fulton I began taking money from the store," Nellie continued as she felt her lover stop.

"You stole from your father?" Vivian asked in disbelief.

"Yes," Nellie confessed as she turned to face her lover in the darkness. "And no, I only took what would have been my dowry. If I could marry you then the money would have been yours. Plus my family never paid me for the work I did. I understand that they raised me, fed me and clothed me but still I worked everyday since the time I could walk. The money is ours."

"I don't know," Vivian mumbled. "I suppose there is nothing we can do about it now."

"And my father got to keep the dowry money," Nellie reasoned. "I understand that on some level what I did was wrong. Yet, I also feel that you should be the one to get my dowry. The only problem is deciding who gets what bedroom?"

"You wish to sleep in separate rooms?" Vivian laughed as Nellie guided her into one of the empty bedrooms.

"Never," Nellie vowed as she released her lover's hand and spread the comforter out onto the floor. "I only want the outside world to think we have separate bedrooms. We wouldn't want to stir up any trouble now would we Auntie Vivian?"

"Promise never to call me that when we are alone," Vivian grimaced as she closed the small distance between them and captured Nellie's face in her hands.

"I promise," Nellie whispered as she felt Vivian's breath caressing her face.

With one kiss Nellie could feel the fire burning deep inside of her as she undid the ribbon that held her lover's hair captive. "Do you have any more surprises for me?" Vivian murmured as they sank down onto the comforter.

"I got a good price for the house," Nellie groaned as she felt her lover kissing her neck as the brunette's hands began to unfasten the buttons of her dress. "I opened a bank account, I added your name to the account, I got a job, ordered lumber to fix up the house, and hired a handyman to do the work."

Vivian halted her movements and stared down at her lover. "Good Lord Nellie you've only been in town a few hours," Vivian offered in admiration.

"I still have one task left to complete," Nellie explained as she ran her fingers along the front of her lover's white ruffled blouse.

Despite the darkness she could still see her lover's brilliant smile. Nellie's mind and body reeled as she realized this was the first time they could make love without fear of being discovered. Vivian captured her hands and slowly ran her tongue along the palms. Nellie whimpered softly as she felt her lover's body melting into her own.

Nellie laid back as her lover slowly undressed her. The brunette's hands caressed her skin as it was revealed to her smoky gaze. Nellie could feel her skin erupting as Vivian's touch glided along her naked flesh. "I missed you," Vivian whispered as she caressed the inside of the blonde's thigh.

"I love you so much Vivian," Nellie professed as she began to slowly remove her lover's clothing. "Nothing was going to keep us apart."

She could feel Vivian's fingers drifting along the supple curve of her body as Nellie removed the last of her lover's clothing. Each of them ran their fingers slowly along the other's naked body savoring the feel of their lover's skin reacting to their touch. Nellie heard her lover inhale sharply as the blonde's fingers lightly brushed across her nipples. Nellie smiled as she felt the bud hardening from her touch.

Nellie leaned into her lover's touch as she felt her lover massaging her scalp and tickling her neck. Nellie licked her lips and smiled mischievously as she felt their thighs brush against one another. Their kisses were filled with hunger as their bodies melded together. Nellie could feel Vivian's need painting her skin, as they pressed closer together.

They wrapped their legs around each other and their desire met, and slowly their bodies swayed gently. Her lover cupped her backside and guided the small blonde's hips to meet her sensual rhythm. As they reclined side by side their bodies became one. Nellie could feel the passion seeping from her body as she moved her body in perfect rhythm with her lover. The months of separation fueled on their desire as they rode against one another. Nellie's body shuddered as she felt Vivian's hands caressing her bottom, and up along her back as their kisses grew deeper.

Nellie felt her body taking control as she rocked harder against Vivian's thigh. The blonde broke away from the kiss and pressed her nipple against her lover's eager lips. The feel of Vivian suckling her breast drove the blonde deeper into the abyss as she clung to her lover filling her hands with the brunette's long, silky tresses.

Vivian's teeth teased her nipple as Nellie cried out with pleasure. Her lover was now beneath her. Nellie's body trembled as they filled one another. She could feel her lover inside of her as her own fingers explored the brunette's wetness.

Making love to Vivian was the one thing in Nellie's life that still amazed her. It was the way they moved in perfect rhythm each seeming to know just what the other wanted. No words were spoken as they glided in and out of one another. For the first time they allowed the cries to fill the night air as they plummeted over the edge of ecstasy.

"Oh my love," Nellie panted as Vivian's fingers continued to explore her womanhood. Nellie rode against her lover's touch as she filled her hands with her lover's breasts. Her hips rocked harder as she caressed her lover. She loved the feel of Vivian's body wriggling beneath her as she cried out her lover's name.

She didn't allow her body to still as she squirmed out of her lover's embrace and began to kiss her way down the brunette's long, inviting body. She tasted her lover's skin slowly before suckling her like a newborn. Vivian was pleading for release as Nellie teased her slowly. She licked away the sweat that was beading up between the valley of Vivian's breasts before tasting her way down the gasping woman's body.

She licked and tasted every inch of her lover's skin until she was nestled between her thighs and drinking in the musky aroma of Vivian's desire. The brunette raised her hips offering up the sweet nectar. Nellie couldn't refuse, she wished to drown in her lover's passion. She dipped her tongue into her lover's wetness and drank in her passion.

She held Vivian's body steady by cupping her firm backside. She captured her throbbing nub in her mouth and suckled it eagerly. She became lost in the nectar of her lover's passion as Vivian cried out. She took her lover deeper as the brunette's body thrust against her touch. Not until her lover begged her to stop did she release the woman and kiss her way back up her body.

Vivian wrapped her arms around her lover's body drawing her in for a lingering kiss. Nellie was certain that her heart would explode as she felt her lover's hands exploring her body. Soon the blonde's hands were mirroring her lover's actions. They clung to one another, gazing deeply into each other's eyes as they slowly stroked the other's throbbing nub.

Nellie felt as if they had become one person as their hearts beat in unison and their bodies trembled against the other's knowing touch. Nellie knew at that moment that the words she had told her lover the first night they had made love were true. Only death could keep her out of this woman's embrace. The rush of emotions tore through her body as her passion caressed Vivian's touch. Her lover smiled at her as she leaned over and kissed her tenderly. "We need our rest my love," Vivian informed her with a smile as she wrapped the comforter around the both of them.

"I know we both have to work tomorrow," Nellie yawned as the miles she had traveled to arrive at this moment finally caught up with her. "And we are going shopping."

"I hate shopping," Vivian grumbled.

"And I hate sleeping on the floor," Nellie teased as she rested her head on her lover's chest.

"Nellie," Vivian whispered as she ran her fingers through Nellie's long blonde hair.

"Hmm?" Nellie murmured as she listened to the steady beating of Vivian's heart.

"Welcome home."

The End