Saving For Tomorrow

By Mavis Applewater

yomavis@email.com

September 2003

Disclaimers if you still need them at this point here goes. The characters and story are the sole possession of the author and may not be reproduced, posted or sold without the author’s permission. If for any reason real or imagined you are uncomfortable with two consenting adult women in a loving sexual relationship then do not read this story or anything else I have ever written. If for any reason it is illegal for you to view this material then please go away and don’t come back until it is no longer a crime. Why is it that most of the Drag Queens I know are prettier than me? Nothing to do with the story I was just curious.

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

As always this is for Heather.

*****

As I lie on this gurney in a curtained area of the local emergency room, I have to ask myself if I was truly bad in a past life. My morning didn’t start off badly. It was a typical Monday morning at Drum Hill Savings and Loan. I am the Branch Manager, which is a big title that explains I am the boss. This means that I am the sole individual responsible for every transaction that happens in our little branch of the small bank. Drum Hill has managed to stay independent and local somehow avoiding being swallowed up by the larger banks.

It is just a small neighborhood bank. I like not working for a large corporation and changing the name of the bank every couple months when there is yet another take over. Back to this morning, like I said it was a typical Monday. We were busy because everyone is broke after the weekend.

Linda, one of the junior tellers, was late again. I had to speak to Colleen, her supervisor, about the girl’s tardiness and surly attitude once again. Warren, the loan officer, was late with his paperwork. After a short chat with him I knew I’d be seeing the paperwork by the end of the day. I’m not a harsh boss, but sometimes I have to remind everyone that I am the boss. Not a fun job at times, but everyone at our happy little bank is like a family and I want to keep it that way. I just never expected to get shot.

Bet you’re wondering how that happened aren’t you? Frankly so am I. You see we have two security guards on duty at all times. There is Marvin, a nice older gentleman and former police officer who is good at what he does. Then there is Clyde. Now Clyde is one of those guys who is basically a scrawny dweeb that thinks he is hot stuff. You know the type, you just want to pull him aside and tell him he’s not a real cop and a mullet was never a good look.

It was still early in the day when we hit a lull. Which turns out was a good thing, since there weren’t any customers in the bank when the incident occurred. For reasons known only to him Clyde began twirling his gun like he was John Freaking Wayne. I think he may have been trying to impress Linda. I also thought it was a really bad idea. I was on my way over to tell Marvin to make Clyde stop acting like a jackass before someone got hurt.

In hindsight I should have just told Clyde myself then just maybe I wouldn’t have found myself lying face down on the floor wondering why I felt a burning sensation. That’s right the little bastard shot me. Not only did he shoot me, he had the bad manners and poor judgment to shoot me in the ass; my right buttock to be exact. There are only two things I am certain of at this moment, the first is I am not going to enjoy sitting for quite sometime and Clyde is so fired. I can’t personally fire Clyde, but I can fire Alistair Security who had made the mistake of assigning him to my bank.

Now because of Clyde or bad karma, I am lying face down on a gurney in the emergency room with my naked backside exposed to anyone and everyone who might just wander by. With the luck I’m having today Gina Gershon will chose this very moment to walk into my life. Adding to my strife is that the youngster who claims he is a doctor keeps trying to reassure me that I was lucky the bullet hit such a fleshy part of my body. ‘I’ll give him fleshy! Snot nosed little punk!’ I mentally grumble when he feels the need to repeat the comment for the one-hundredth time.

It doesn’t help my situation that the nurse is snickering at my predicament while two police officers keep asking me what happened. Oh and the boys in blue are far more interested in staring at my ass than listening to what I am telling them.

Just as I thought things couldn’t get worse Dylan Rogers came storming into the tiny area. Dylan owns the security company that had the poor judgment of hiring Clyde the wonder boy in the first place. As Dylan apologizes profusely the doctor keeps poking my butt. I’ve known Dylan for years, and he’s a nice guy. Up until this morning I would have recommended his company to anyone. Clyde was the only guard I’ve ever had concerns about. Honestly this was one time in my life I hated being right.

Now the cops are ignoring me and asking Dylan what happened? The nurses’ chuckling is growing louder, and by the way my butt hurts and I am truly convinced that this kid who is probing my backside isn’t old enough to shave much less be playing with sharp objects. "For the love of God!" I finally scream out. "For the last time the idiot was playing with his gun and shot me in the ass!"

Much to my surprise everyone in the room is staring at me like I was acting like a bitch. I’m not a mean person or vindictive. I just want to cover my naked butt up and go home.

"Everyone out!" The nurse demands. I feel a small sense of relief that she is finally on my side. By the way she was chuckling earlier I was beginning to wonder if I had done something horrible to her. You know like date her sister or something. Again, I’m not a bad person, I’ve just haven’t had the best track record when it comes to relationships. But that is a story for another time.

For now all I want is to get this idiot poking around my butt to stop so I can cover up my wounded ass and go home. Everyone with the exception of the nurse and the child leave and my flesh wound is finally attended to. I leave with a headache, not one ounce of dignity, a pain in my butt, a prescription and a blow device that looks like a mutant donut. All in all this day sucked.

The following morning wasn’t any better. I was greeted by jeers and bad jokes from my co-workers. I tried to laugh it off, but as the ass jokes continued my mood definitely grew cranky to say the least. The only person who didn’t feel a need to tease me about my wounded butt was Marvin. Thankfully Clyde was absent. Given the circumstances I’d say it was a smart move for the both of them. I honestly think that if the weenie dared step into the bank I’d throttle him and choke the life out of him.

Shortly after we began business for the day, Dylan arrives at my office. When he enters my private office he looks as if his dog has just died. It is understandable. The poor guy was not only facing losing the banks business but the very real possibility of a lawsuit. Plus if word about what happened ever got out it would put him out of business.

His nervousness seems to be growing as he watches me shifting uncomfortably while the inflatable device squeaks beneath my injury. "I’m not going to sue," I offer immediately trying to put him at ease. He blows out a heavy sigh as I motion for him to take a seat. "This is bad Dylan," I caution him. "I’ve managed to keep it out of the paper. It wouldn’t do the bank any good if it got around that there was a shooting at one of our branches."

"I appreciate everything you are trying to do," he mutters. "I can’t believe he was so stupid."

"I’ve expressed my concerns about him to you several times," I begin in a grave tone. "You convinced me to give him a chance. Now convince me why I shouldn’t terminate your contract."

"Clyde’s been fired," he begins hopefully.

"Good," I nod encouraging him to continue still not fully convinced that I shouldn’t end my business relationship with his company.

"The police have pulled his carry permit," he eagerly continues.

"Even better," I nod informing him that I’m not still fully convinced.

"And starting tomorrow morning you’ll have my best guard stationed here," he babbles on. "And I’ll cut our fee by twenty percent."

"Thirty," I coldly inform him.

"Naomi," he begins to protest as I glare at him.

"He shot me in the ass," I hiss. "Do you have any idea the embarrassment I am going to go through after I file the worker’s comp forms? I hate to mention this but it could have been a lot worse than a client being shot in butt. He could have killed someone. For the life of me I can’t understand why you hired this numb nut in the first place?"

I give him a curious look as he mumbles something unintelligible in response. "Excuse me?" I ask truly curious as to what he is hiding.

"He’s my nephew," he sheepishly confuses.

"You’re kidding?" I gasp in response. In a strange way finding out that Clyde was related to Dylan made sense. How else could someone that ill equipped be assigned to guarding a bank? It also explained why every time I expressed my concerns about Clyde, Dylan begged me to give him another chance.

Dylan and I discussed the issue further. No surprise he conceded to the thirty percent and after he explained that the new guard was a highly decorated former state trooper I decided to give him another chance.

The following morning I am greeted by my still snickering staff, Marvin, and the most adorable blonde I have ever seen. My jaw is hanging open as she introduces herself. I show her to my office so we can discuss business. Honestly after sneaking more than a few peeks at her well toned body in her gray and crimson uniform, business is the last thing on my mind.

She removes her hat once we are in the office. I’m impressed by the way she stands even after I offer her a seat. I chose to continue standing as well. Sitting is still a very painful experience for me. "So Miss Collins, I understand that you were a State Trooper," I begin trying to sound professional. The truth is I simply want to know more about her.

"It’s Mrs.," she corrects me as I frown disappointed by the information. "And yes, Ma’am I was on the force for eight years before I was injured in the line of duty."

"Your husband must have been very upset," I pry.

"Ex-husband," she corrects me once again. "At the time my well being was no longer his concern. Speaking of concerns, I understand that there was a problem with my predecessor."

"A problem?" I almost laugh at her assessment of the situation. "You could say that."

"If I may inquire what went wrong?" She asks as I shake my head and chuckle.

"He shot me," I offer as my butt being to throb.

"Beg pardon?" She stammers as her dark blue eyes widen with horror.

"He shot me," I calmly repeat as her jaw hangs open.

"Was there a robbery in progress?" She stammers trying to understand just how something like this could happen. "I know there has been a rash of hold ups in the area recently."

"Nope," I snarl as the pain in my backside grows. "He was playing with his gun."

"What?" She practically shouts. "I’m sorry Ma’am," she quickly apologizes. "Trust me nothing like that will happen again. My main goal is to insure that everyone on the premises is safe at all times. I know that our presence is more of a deterrent for would be thieves, but I assure you that at no time will your staff or patrons be at risk should anything occur."

"So you wouldn’t prevent a hold up?" I inquire already impressed by this woman’s attitude.

"That isn’t my job," she informs me in a direct tone. "I’m sure that you have already trained your staff that in the unlikely event of a robbery to just do as the bandit requests and try to discreetly alert the authorities if possible. It is after all only money. My job is to ensure that no one is injured."

"Good answer," I compliment her. She nods respectfully. "Oh and it is Naomi or Miss Evans. That Ma’am crap has to go."

"Understood, Miss Evans and it is Corey," she smiles before leaving my office.

I sigh deeply as I watch the sway of her hips as she walks away. "I know what you are thinking," Colleen teases me with a knowing look.

"Can’t help myself," I whisper. "I just love a woman in uniform. Enough of this we have work to do. Linda is late again."

"That girl," Colleen grumbles as she sets off to find her errant teller.

The weeks have slipped by and everything has returned to normal. My backside is actually feeling better and Corey is proving to be very professional. At times she is a little too professional for my tastes. I can’t help it; I just think the little blonde is hot. Alas she has shown absolutely no interest in me. She greets me with a warm smile every morning that just melts my heart. She also still addresses me as Miss Evans. Then again she does her job and hasn’t shot anyone so; all in all, she’s a big improvement over Clyde.

Not much I can do about my growing attraction, except lust after her from a far. It is the middle of the day on a Friday. I am looking forward to the end of the day, and my plans for the evening. Tamara has invited me to one of her little play parties. I don’t attend her little gatherings very often. Sometimes a girl just needs to release some pent up frustrations and a friendly play party is a safe way to do it. Of course I would never tell anyone that I go to a party that is designed so the guests, all of whom are female, can sneak off to a bedroom and watch one another touch themselves.

It isn’t the romance I am seeking, but like I said it is safe. Tamara is very insistent that everyone plays nice and mostly importantly safely. I haven’t been involved with anyone in such a long time and a certain blonde haired, blue-eyed security guard has me a little keyed up.

I’m quite certain that my staff would be shocked if they knew that every once in awhile I participated in such an event. Of course I doubt most of them think I have a sex drive at all. At the bank I’m the boss. I’m professional, but friendly, and that is all most of them know about me. Colleen, the head teller, has been privy to my private life to a certain degree, but even she doesn’t know about Tamara’s little gatherings.

I dig through my paperwork until it is time to go home. I dress for Tamara’s party in a casual outfit that I can slip out of easily. When I arrive Tamara greets me with a big hug and asks how my ass is feeling? I am getting so sick of people asking me about my butt. I tell her the truth that it was a minor flesh wound and I’m much better. I go about mingling with the rest of the guests.

On the surface it looks like any other party. The guests, all women, are sipping wine, andsnacking on hors d’oeuvres while making small talk. Of course what we are really doing while we pretend to be engaging in a perfectly normal social gathering is scope the room for a new playmate. I quickly dismiss the first few women who catch my eye either from a lack of attraction or because I already met them before.

I begin to question why I was even bothering, when a petite redhead catches my eye. She gives me a smile and soon I am following her into one of the back bedrooms. As I remove my clothing and join my new companion and another couple on the bed, I am wondering why I think this is going to make me feel better?

The other couple leaves as we begin kissing. I feel something absent in her touch as I begin to touch myself. I am dimly aware that another couple has joined us. Still unable to get into the experience I close my eyes hoping to come up with something that will make me feel more amorous.

Not surprisingly Corey’s face pops into my head. I sigh deeply as I begin to stroke myself harder while the redhead fondles my breasts. In the darkened bedroom I keep kissing the redhead pretending that I am kissing Corey. The sounds of the couple behind me grows louder as I feel another set of hands on my body.

I gasp as the stranger behind me caresses my body. Her touch excites me as the woman I am kissing encourages her to touch me. My body is trembling as she kisses the nape of my neck while her hands explore the curve of my hips. My touch deepens as I roll over and feel her body covering my own. We are kissing deeply, her hands exploring my skin as I touch myself.

I can feel her wetness brushing against my stomach, as an erect nipple grazes against my lips. I capture the erect bud between my lips and tease it with my tongue. The stranger’s body feels good as she grinds her wetness harder against my body. I suckle her harder as I pleasure myself. She whimpers as I release her nipple from the warmth of my mouth.

I feel her hands cupping my breasts. She caresses them as I continue to pleasure myself. I feel my body nearing the edge as I slip deep inside of my wetness. My eyes snap open when I hear "Oh shit," gasped and my mystery lover’s hand still against my body.

My entire body tenses as I find myself looking up at Corey. Much to the disappointment of our companions neither of us are moving. Corey is straddling my body as we stare blankly at one another. "Come on you two you aren’t going to stop now are you?" Corey’s companion whines as I roll my eyes in disgust.

"Why don’t you finish with out me?" Corey mutters quickly as she climbs off of my body and begins to hastily grab up her clothing.

"Go ahead," I encourage the redhead as I quickly retreat from the bed and begin dressing as quickly as I can. I am freaked out that someone I have to face every day at work caught me in this situation. I am also miffed that our companions don’t even seem to miss us. The moment I sprung off the bed the two of them became glued together.

Corey has already dressed and exited the dark bedroom. Hell she was probably half way to Chicago by the time I stumbled out of the room. "What happened?" Tamara asks me with concern. I am unable to respond as I stand there shaking. "Sally’s date bolted out of here like she had seen a ghost."

"I work with her," I manage to sputter out.

"Oh God," Tamara gasps. "You don’t think she’ll tell anyone do you?"

"No," I scowl. "What is she going to say; you’ll never guess what happened at this orgy I went to the other night?"

"Are you going to be alright?" Tamara persists.

"Yeah," I groan. "It is just going to make working together difficult. Fortunately she’s a security guard and we don’t interact that often."

"Hopefully this one won’t shoot you." Tamara teases in an effort to make me smile.

"I’m not that bad in bed," I laugh. "Look I’m going to head home; this kind of killed the mood for me."

I toss and turn all night long. On the one hand I am mortified at what had happened dreading having to face Corey at the bank on Monday morning. On the other hand I am kicking myself for not continuing what was happening. I had spent weeks trying to find out if Corey was gay, and then I blow it when we are naked together. I must be a new kind of stupid.

I spend the entire weekend subjecting myself to the same torture. When I arrive at the bank bright and early Monday morning I am exhausted. I am also heart broken to find Marvin standing with a new security guard. I can’t really blame Corey for leaving. It must be uncomfortable to find yourself straddling a naked woman and realize that it is someone you work for.

"This is Bob," Marvin explains in an awkward manner.

I simply nod in response as I usher everyone inside to begin our day. Later that day I feel my head pounding as I listen to Dylan’s rambling telephone call. The gist of his ramblings is that Corey asked for a transfer and Dylan wanted to know if I knew why. "I’m certain she has her reasons," I try to reassure him.

"No," he argues. "I promised you the best and she is the best. She’ll be back on duty tomorrow morning," he vows and hangs up before I can tell him that he doesn’t need to do that.

By the following morning I feel like death warmed over. Corey won’t look at me as we exchange a shy greeting. I blush as I walk quickly past her. I feel terrible that she probably got in trouble with her boss over the situation. It is obvious by the way we dance around each other that neither of us wishes to discuss what happened.

As the weeks pass the tension between us grows. Off and on I consider pulling her aside and talking just so we can clear the air. Each time I lose my nerve. I am once again pondering the idea as Colleen sits across from me. "Naomi?" She prods me. I have almost forgotten that I called her into my office.

I shake my head in an effort to clear my thoughts. "Linda," I begin my heavy tone is making her nervous.

"She’s been on time for weeks," Colleen begins in the girl’s defense. I understand that it is a part of her job to defend her staff to me.

"I know," I confirm as I slide two photocopies across my desk. "Last week she cashed two checks without getting the appropriate ID. They were fraudulent."

"Son of a . . ," Colleen fumes.

"Close out her window and send her in here," I request.

"I can do it," Colleen offers.

"No, I’ll fire her," I sigh. "I know how much you hate doing it, and hey that is why they give me the big bucks. Just send in a guard before you send her to me."

"You want security?" Colleen asks in surprise.

"I don’t think I’ll need it, but it is policy that security escorts her off of the premises," I explain. "It is part of the new disgruntled employee profile the bank implemented last year after that last wacko shot up his work place."

"I understand," she agrees as she heads towards the door. "I’ll send Corey in."

"Thanks," I respond before I feel the air slipping from my lungs. "Wait," I call out but Colleen is already gone.

"I understand you wanted to see me?" Corey nervously addresses me as she closes the door behind her. It doesn’t escape my notice that she is unable to look at me.

"Yes," I answer as I try to still the rapid beating of my heart. "I am dismissing an employee and policy requires that you are present."

"I am familiar with the procedure," Corey brightly responds seemingly relieved that being called to my office is simply a business matter. "I am to remain with you to ensure that the employee doesn’t react violently, and then I watch over them as they gather up their personal effects and escort them from the premises. After which security must be alerted if the dismissed employee returns to the workplace for any reason."

"You sound like a training manual," I can’t help laughing.

"I take my work seriously," she smiles in response. It feels good to see her smile. I realized that I’ve missed seeing her smile over the past few weeks.

For a brief moment our eyes meet. I feel my body warming as I return her smile. Then each of us shyly turns away. "I am sorry that your transfer wasn’t approved," I offer in an effort to ease the tension between us. "Not that I don’t want you around or to imply that you are doing a bad job."

"I understand," she reassures me with another smile. "Not much either of us can do about it now. And it isn’t as if I can explain to my Dad why I wanted a transfer."

"Your Dad?" I blurt out as I feel my body suddenly perspiring from every pore. "Dylan is your father? Just when I thought things couldn’t get more awkward."

"I am sorry that I’ve put you in this situation," she apologizes.

"Corey," I sputter in disbelief. "I was at that party too. I am willing to assume that we were there for similar reasons."

"You had a date with an idiot who thought it would fun?" She teases me with a cocky smirk.

"No," I shoot back with a slight scowl. "Most people who attend Tamara’s parties don’t bring a date. In fact the main reason women go is because we aren’t dating."

"That is what I figured," Corey snickers. "So we can forget it ever happened?"

"Works for me," I blow in relief as there is a knock on the door. "I hate this part of my job." Of course I don’t really want to forget how it felt to be touched by this woman, or what an amazing body she is hiding under her uniform. But for now that will be my little secret.

For the moment I need to focus on Linda who enters my office snapping her gum, just like she always does. Linda isn’t a bad person, she’s just young. Linda seems shocked that I am letting her go. Corey keeps a watchful eye while Linda spews out a litany of obscenities that imply I have an unnatural relationship with my mother.

It isn’t an uncommon reaction so I just let it roll over me. I’ve learned over the years that people either react with anger or tears when they lose their jobs. Normally crying and begging win out. But with folks like Linda that are unaware that their performance isn’t what it should be always get angry and somehow it is my fault.

I don’t respond to her harsh words, I simply hand over her last paycheck. I can tell by Corey’s demeanor that she has had enough of the girl’s tirade. I am taken aback when Corey ushers her out of my office and Linda refers to the blonde as my bitch. To her credit Corey simply shrugs off the comment.

After Corey and Linda make their colorful departure Colleen storms into my office. Apparently the entire bank overheard her outburst. She inquires about what happened and I explain that it was nothing.

"So Corey’s your bitch now is she?" Colleen teases me.

"Only in my dreams," I laugh heartily at the comment.

"Pity," Colleen taunts me. I can’t stop the image of Corey’s naked body hovering above me from creeping into my thoughts. I blush as the image plays out. "I’ve been wondering about her."

"If you want to know about Corey’s personal life then ask her," I sigh heavily. I know that Corey likes women, but I have no intention of explaining to Colleen or anyone else just how I discovered that little fact.

"I’ve tried," Colleen grunts with frustration. "All I could find out was she was a cop and she is divorced."

"Well there you have it," I shrug as I try to focus on my paperwork.

"You are no fun at all." Colleen quips before leaving me to the demands of my job.

Linda’s tantrum aside, all in all I’ve had worse days at work with Clyde shooting me topping the list. "Still working?" Corey inquires as she pops her head into my office.

"Just finishing up," I respond with a silly grin that somehow formed on my lips.

"Everything is locked up," Corey continues. "I will wait for you so I can walk you out to your car," I am stunned by her suggestion. "Linda didn’t take being fired very well. I would feel better if I walked you out," she explains as my heart drops just a little as I realize that she is just doing her job.

I agree and gather up my belongings. We are quiet as she escorts me to my car. The only sound in the dark parking lot is the sound of leaves blowing across the pavement. "I love this time of year," I comment as I drink in the scent of the crisp autumn air.

"So do I," Corey sighs in agreement as her face lights up. "I just love when the leaves turn, the smell in the air and, of course, Halloween."

We are lingering at my car just looking at one another. "It’s late," she finally offers breaking the spell. "I have to meet my mother for dinner," she quickly adds in an apologetic tone.

"Oh," I nod as neither of us move. "I’ve heard a lot about your Mom," I prattle on for some unknown reason. "Your Dad talks about her constantly."

"She is great," she responds with another captivating smile. "You should meet her sometime. Then again my family hasn’t exactly made the best impression on you."

"What do you mean?" I ask eager to continue our conversation.

"Well my father sent an unqualified employee to work for you," she wryly begins. "My cousin shot you in, from what I’ve heard, a very sensitive area. And I well . . . Let’s just say the first time we encountered one another in a social setting, I got a first hand view of how nicely your injury has healed."

I can’t help laughing at her assessment of the situation. "Do they know?" I suddenly inquire. "Not about how you would know that my injury has healed," I quickly clarify.

"That I’m gay?" She confirms. "Yes they know. I didn’t have much choice in the matter. I was in the army when I ended my marriage. We married young and I didn’t have any idea who I really was. My husband didn’t take the news as to just why I was leaving him very well. He outed me to my commanding officer."

"Nice guy," I snarl.

"Up until that moment I would have thought so," she sighs. "When I came home I had no choice but to explain to my parents what had happened. They’ve been great about it. Not thrilled mind you but very understanding."

I want to say more, learn more about her but it is late and she needs to be on her way. Still I stand there just looking at her. I am amazed at how she is also just standing there looking back at me. I can feel a powerful current flowing between us. She inhales deeply. The sound of a car horn honking in the distance pulls me away from her gaze and back to reality. "Good night," I shyly whisper as I unlock the door to my car.

"Good night, Miss Evans," she whispers in response before heading towards her own car.

Each of us waited a moment before starting our cars and driving off in different directions. After arriving home, I can’t help wondering if I had imagined the entire interaction? Was there really a connection or was Corey simply being professional and polite? As I crawl into bed, I know I am in for another restless night.

The following week, I am pleased by the change between Corey and myself. It is almost playful at times. Of course she only drops her professional demeanor when no one else is around. I am confused as to her intentions. I don’t know if we are becoming friends, good co-workers or just perhaps there might be some deeper meaning to her friendliness?

Whatever her motives I was content to just enjoy her company. It is late on Friday, another busy day for the bank. The crowd seems to be finally dwindling as closing time nears. I smile as the tellers keep looking up at large clock by the entrance. Pay day is never easy, and being down one teller made their day all that much longer.

I am crossing through the lobby and offer Corey a warm smile just as I have all week. I am a little put off when she simply nods. There is something cold in her demeanor. It bothers me, but I don’t read too much into the small blonde’s indifference.

Corey brushes past me as I head over to the desks where the loan officers and account managers are seated. They are happy to see me. Once I take their paperwork, they can start their weekend. I go about collecting their workload and wishing them a good weekend. Out of the corner of my eye I spy Corey chatting with Colleen.

The blonde seems positively jubilant unlike Colleen who seems a little pale and very tense. The situation seems more than a little odd. As I gather up the last of the paperwork, I watch Corey crossing the room and lingering at the doorway.

I wave goodnight to the last of the loan officers as Corey locks the door. I look at my watch and frown when I notice that it is still a good fifteen minutes before closing time. I glance over at the row of teller station and notice that all except Colleen are gone.

It doesn’t make sense to me since there were still several customers in line. I can’t help noticing the scruffy man in the long coat. I briefly note that it is much too warm today to be wearing such a heavy coat. Most of the customers decide to give up waiting and walk out in frustration.

The scruffy man is one of the remaining customers. I can see that Colleen is shaking. I look over towards Corey. The blonde’s body is tense as she gives me a warning glance. She nods with her head for me to leave. I shake my head in refusal. Her brilliant blue eyes glare at me.

I ignore her glare as I cross over to the teller stations. I buzz myself in and approach Colleen. "Why don’t you take your break?" I suggest to the shaking woman as the last three customers groan with disgust. Sweat is pouring down Colleen’s face as she looks up at me. "Go ahead," I encourage her. "Where are the others?" I whisper so only she can hear.

"Break room," she softly responds so only I can hear her words. "They don’t know."

"Keep them there," I instruct her as I nudge her away from her drawer.

Colleen doesn’t argue as I take over. She looks sick as she disappears into the back area where the break room is located. I look down quickly noting that she has already activated the silent alarm. I can feel Corey glaring at me as I wait on the last few customers.

Now the only people left are Corey, the scruffy man, and myself. Even though I know it is going to happen, I am still surprised when he pulls out the gun. The fear is gripping me as I stare into his dark eyes. His face is covered with a ridiculous disguise. Still the only thing I can really focus on is the pistol pointed directly at me.

"Don’t do anything stupid," he warns me while Marvin lingers closely and Corey unlocked the door.

"No sir," I reassure him while I remind myself that the chances of my being shot twice in the same bank were very slim. I stuff a pile of money into a bag. His eyes are darting around nervously. He seems to be convinced that neither Marvin nor Corey is aware of what is happening.

"Have a nice day," he taunts me as he snatches up the bag and brushes past Marvin. Corey unlocks the door as Marvin follows the man. I am holding my breath as Corey opens the door for him. The man halts his movements suddenly as Corey and Marvin draw their guns. I catch a glimpse of blue lights flashing.

"Like you told the lady don’t do anything stupid," Corey cautions him.

And then it was over as he lowered his gun to the floor and surrendered to the police who were waiting outside. I blew out a terse breath as Corey and Marvin put their firearms away. I am still unable to move as the police enter and Marvin goes to inform the tellers that it is safe to come out.

"Are you alright?" Corey asks as she stands in front of the teller window.

"No," I stammer my body is now shaking violently. "How about you?"

"About the same," Corey confesses.

"You don’t look it," I note as I take in her calm demeanor.

"When you realized what was happening why did you take Colleen’s place?" She asks me in an incredulous tone.

"Because the safety of the employees is as much my responsibility as it is yours," I bark out. "You should have alerted me."

"There wasn’t time," she snaps back. "I had to get as many people out of here as quickly as I could without alerting this guy."

"And you did," I concede as I try to calm myself. "Thank you. I don’t think I have ever been that frightened in my life."

"I was pretty scared myself," Corey says as she offers me a warm smile.

"I have a ton of stuff to do," I start babbling. "I have to call the head office, talk to the tellers, deal with the cops," I continue babbling as I feel the weight of the situation bearing down on me. The only things I am grateful for at this moment are that our little bank isn’t open on Saturday and the smile Corey is casting over at me.

She reaches over and places her hand over mine. "I know this is hard," she comforts me. "We will just take care of everything and then lock up for the night."

"And then?" I ask as I am filled with sudden rush of adrenalin.

"I don’t know about you but I could use a drink," her voice deepens as her eyes sparkle.

There is something in the timber of her voice that informs me that I am expected to join her. "Deal," I confirm in a breathy tone. She gives my hand a gentle squeeze before we begin to go about the business at hand.

After all of the statements had been given to the police and the reports, and I dealt with the staff and my own superiors I slumped into my leather bound chair. The fear of what had happened has subsided. Oddly enough I am filled with an edginess that can only be attributed to one thing.

For the life of me I cannot understand why my heart is racing, my palms are sweating and my lower anatomy is dancing. "Everyone is gone," Corey announces as she steps into my office. I can’t take my eyes off her as she approaches me. She sits on the edge of my desk. My entire body tenses as I fight to control my breathing.

I stare up at her thinking about how much I want to kiss her, to touch her, to go back to that night at the party and I want so much more. She reaches out and places her hand on my shoulder. I pull away from her touch, the feeling is far too intense for me to handle.

"Corey," I utter in a shaky breath. "Touching me right now isn’t a good idea," I caution her.

"Yes it is," she hotly asserts as she cups my face. I release a whimper as I lean into her touch. "I understand what you are experiencing."

"I don’t think that you do," I argue while my eyes flutter shut.

"I am probably the only one who does," Corey reassures me as her thumb grazes my cheek. "I feel it too. You have just survived a very dangerous situation it is only natural."

"This isn’t fear," I squeak out.

"I know," she whispers hotly in my ear. My body trembles in response. "I told you that I feel it too. I felt it long before today."

"So have I," came my helpless response as my eyes slowly opened. I am greeted by the look of pure lust filling her eyes. She helps me to my feet. I follow her blindly as we exit the bank. I don’t protest when she insists that we ride in her car. I have no idea where we are going as she drives through the busy streets. All I can do is keep a tight hold on her hand.

I don’t question her as she parks her car in the driveway. I follow her as we enter her home. My body trembles as she closes the door behind us. I stand in the middle of her living room as she goes about removing her utility belt and securing her gun. I smile when she removes her hat and tosses it across the room.

My smile grows brighter when she takes me by the hand and gives me a questioning look. "Do you have any idea how hot you look in that uniform?" I ask as she blushes.

"You think so?" She asks as her face scrunches up.

"Oh yeah," I confess as she guides me up the staircase. "You look even hotter without it," I encourage her as we enter her bedroom. I don’t bother drinking in my surroundings. The only thing I can focus on is this beautiful woman standing before me and how good it feels to have her arms wrapped around my body.

I run my fingers through her short blonde locks as I feel her hands caressing my back. My eyes drift down to her lips, which are parted ever so slightly. I give in to my desires and kiss her. Corey’s lips are soft as they greet my touch. The kiss deepens and I feel something stirring inside of me. The passionate kiss we are sharing is softer yet far more intense and electrifying than the first time we kissed.

I feel as if she is looking inside of my soul as I draw her in closer. Her body is pressing against my own, her hands roaming along my body. I am breathless as the kiss comes to an end. I caress the back of her neck, then down to her shoulders as she places soft kiss along my neck. I take my time as I try to feel all of her. I can feel my desire growing while my heart pounds against my chest.

She murmurs softly against my skin as I begin to undo the buttons on her neatly pressed shirt. I feel the buttons on my blouse opening as I tug the hem of her shirt out of her trousers. She shivers as I brush open her shirt and reveal the lacy bra that is hidden beneath her crisp uniform.

I pepper her face and neck with kisses as my hands explore her body. I feel the air greeting my body as my blouse is removed. We are kissing again as our hands roam along the other’s chest. I slip out of my shoes as I cup her breasts. She moans deeply as her body arches in response.

I unclasp her bra as I feel her nimble fingers performing the same action. Caught up in the taste of one another’s mouth we fumble to remove our bras. Our nipples brush lightly as we cling to one another. I feel her lifting the hem of my skirt. Our gentle touching gives way to the urgent need to feel one another. I moan into her mouth as I feel her hand slipping between my thighs and cupping my mound.

My hips sway against her touch, while my fingers tease her nipples. I recall how it felt to have her breast in my mouth. I tear my mouth from hers and capture her breast with my lips. The heel of her hand presses harder against my throbbing clit as I suckle her nipple.

The air escapes my lungs as we fall onto her bed. I straddle her body while she pulls my skirt up to my waist. As she lowers my pantyhose and underwear down to my hips I am ready to explode. I kiss her hungrily as her fingers dip into my wetness. She teases me with the tips of her fingers. I am begging her for more as she suckles my neck.

I feel caught up in a tidal wave as we begin to hurriedly remove the other’s clothing. We roll around on the bed as the need to feel the other’s naked body consumes us. Frustrated by the boundaries we separate so we can finish undressing.

As I gaze at her naked body lying beside my own I feel awe struck by her beauty. I caress her hip as we gravitate closer to one another. Our bodies melt together as our skin touches. I cry out as our clits brush against one another. Soon our bodies are moving in perfect rhythm.

I can’t stop kissing her as we ride against one another. I slip my hand between us. My fingers tease her skin until I feel her wetness greeting my touch. Her blunt nails dig into my shoulders as my long fingers slip inside of her. She releases needy gasps as I slowly fill her. Corey’s hips thrust against my touch as I begin to plunge in and out of her.

Soon I feel a tiny hand drifting along the front of my body and soon she is mirroring my actions. Her smoky gaze captures me as we pleasure one another. I fight to keep my body from exploding. I lose my fight as I feel the walls of her center tightening against my fingers. I give in to my need as she cries out. My body quickly follows hers as our passionate cries fill the night.

Neither of us halt our movements as we continue to drive the other into the abyss. Finally our bodies release one last shudder before we collapse. There is so much more I want to experience with her, yet my body isn’t ready for more. We lie on the bed panting. I roll over and look at Corey with a dreamy expression. "So I was just wondering," she pants as I watch the rapid rise and fall of her chest.

"Hmm," I encourage her as my hand begins to caress her firm abs.

"What are your plans for the weekend?" She slyly inquires as I feel one of her hands caressing my shoulder.

"Well somebody still owes me a drink," I tease.

My jest is cut off when her arms encircle my body and she pulls me down on top of her. "I think that can be arranged," she taunts me.

Soon I am kissing her again while our bodies slowly begin to dance together. Once again I amazed at how perfectly we move together as each of us rides against the other’s thigh. She is wriggling beneath me as I feel her body releasing. I cling to her as I follow her over the edge. I collapse on top of her. We hold one another tightly until our bodies finally still.

I eagerly climb under the covers with her. She nestles up against me. I wrap my arms around her quivering form. She murmurs softly as she drifts off to sleep. I am looking forward to seeing what tomorrow will bring. I am smiling as I think that getting shot in the ass was probably the luckiest thing that ever happened to me.

The End

RAIN’S JOURNEY

July 2002

Disclaimers: Yes, I know who they look like, but it isn’t them. The story and characters belong to the author and may not be reproduced, posted, or sold without the author’s permission. And doesn’t it just suck that I have to mention that? This story contains a graphic (and I do mean graphic) description of two consenting adult women in a sexual relationship. If for any reason this isn’t the type of story you would enjoy, then do not read this story or anything else I have ever written. If for any reason it is illegal for you to view this material, then do me a favor and do not read it. But feel free to come back when it’s no longer a crime for you to view my work. If Goofy and Pluto are both dogs, then why is one Mickey’s pet and the other his buddy? Nothing to do with the story - just wondering.

Thanks to my beta reader Joanne.

As always, this is for Heather.

*****

The Western Territories 1849

Rain looked across the trail as the sun burned down, baking her skin. It was one of those hot sticky days when even the twilight wouldn’t bring relief to the sweat-soaked woman or her trusty horse. She removed her hat and wiped her sweaty brow with the worn sleeve of her shirt. The scratchy material of the ragged shirt grated against her fair skin. She adjusted the long blonde braid that was hanging down her back, lifting it in an effort to cool the back of her neck. She had contemplated cutting her long locks on several occasions since she already endured odd looks and sneers from the folks she encountered on her travels. A woman dressed in masculine attire and traveling alone led to all sorts of unpleasant assumptions. Having no desire to add more grist to the mill, Rain left her long unruly hair in place.

She looked back up at the blazing sun and hoped that the night would bring some relief. "Not much longer," she commented aloud, noting how low the fiery orb stood in the late afternoon sky. No one but her horse was around to hear her words. Together they had survived another day in her dismal existence. "What do you say, boy? Another night camping out at the Widow Jenkins place?"

Her horse snorted in response and she patted the tired animal softly. The appaloosa had been her sole companion for almost two summers now. She had saved him from being destroyed by an uncaring owner who couldn’t see the horse’s worth until she offered to take him off of the man's hands for him. Of course she hadn’t had the means to buy the animal, so under the cover of darkness, she liberated the beast.

"Maybe it’s about time I named you," she pondered as she continued along her path. But if she named him then it would be as if he belonged to her. She didn’t want to own anything or to have anything owning her. She couldn’t do that. They were both free. He was simply horse or boy and she was Rain; Rain because of the fierce rainstorm she’d survived the night she was cast out of her parents’ home. She was no longer Abigail Smoothers. Abigail died that night and had been reborn as Rain.

The unnamed horse seemed to know his way to the Jenkins farm. "Ah, the Widow Jenkins," she said with a pleasant smile. "Now that is a tall drink of water." Her smile grew brighter as the image of the dark-haired beauty filled her senses. The familiar warm sensation that filled her was the reason the young blonde found herself drifting from one dusty township to the next.

She tried to convince herself that she was returning to Mrs. Jenkins’ small farm night after night simply because the woman had made it clear that she was welcome to camp there. Rain was quite accustomed to being driven off from most folk’s homesteads.

For over three years, she’d been drifting the countryside clad in men’s clothing. It was what she could steal and they were more suited for her travels. She was constantly forced to leave places because the decent folk she encountered didn’t want someone of her kind lingering around.

Stafford had been no different. That is until the night she set up her camp just outside of the widow’s fence line. She could see the small house from where she’d set up for the night and became fearful that she wouldn’t get to sleep when she spotted the tall dark-haired beauty standing out on her front porch. She was a vision of beauty bathed in the light of the summer moon. Rain’s stomach clenched with desire and she found herself watching the woman until she retreated into her home.

Rain had kept her meager belongings close at hand, fully expecting Henry, the woman’s hired hand, to appear at any moment to send her on her way. The request for her to vacate the premises never came. Instead, when the morning sun and the sounds of birds chirping woke her, she noticed that the fence gate was slightly open. Just beyond the gate lay a pot of coffee, a basket of freshly baked biscuits, and a clean blanket.

Rain looked around to see whom the items belonged to. Finding no one else she realized that they’d been left for her. The friendly gesture touched Rain’s heart and melted a thin layer of ice from it. After she had eaten, she silently replaced the items on the front porch when she was certain that no one could observe her actions. On top of the neatly folded blanket, she placed a bunch of wildflowers that she’d picked in the field just outside of Mrs. Jenkins property.

The normally hardhearted blonde felt silly leaving flowers for her hostess; sillier yet that she’d taken the time to pick flowers that matched the tall woman’s amazingly blue eyes. She had seen the Widow Jenkins up close earlier that day when she was riding through town and couldn’t help becoming mesmerized by the woman’s eyes. Perhaps that’s why she had chosen her small ranch to camp outside of? She shrugged off the silly romantic notions as she climbed up on her horse and made her departure.

The following evening Rain had returned to Mrs. Jenkins farm. She’d convinced herself that she was simply returning since it was a safe place to set up camp for the night. It wasn’t at all possible that she fancied the tall attractive woman who’d shown her the only act of kindness she’d received in far too many years.

She couldn’t have stopped the smile that emerged on her face when she returned to the same spot to discover the gate open and a basket of food and a fresh blanket waiting for her. That night she feasted upon the Widow Jenkins’ fine cooking and then wrapped up in a clean blanket. As she snuggled into the warmth of the blanket, she inhaled the scent of jasmine and vanilla and wondered if the Widow Jenkins smelled that way as well.

Now it had been over a fortnight and Rain found that she was once again returning to the same place she camped every evening, silently accepting the meals, fresh blanket, and the invitation to camp within the confines of Mrs. Jenkins’ fence. From her camp she could see the light coming from the house; on occasion Henry or his employer would be outside but no one disturbed her solitude.

Rain found it odd when she kept hoping that the Widow Jenkins would approach her. Of course she understood that her desire to spend time with the attractive woman was based solely on her baser desires. They were the same feelings that had started her on her desolate journey.

Still it didn’t prevent her mind from picturing the young widow in the throes of passion while she pleasured herself. "When was the last time I had a little fun?" she asked her nameless steed. "Flagstaff, wasn’t it?" The horse merely snickered in response. "I think it was that redheaded dancer, or at least she said she was a dancer. She sure was pretty." She smirked as the memory of her last experience of true passion replayed in her mind.

A frightened scream broke her from her thoughts. She halted her steed’s steady gait and searched the empty field. Another scream pierced the silence. Rain’s heart raced, knowing it was the sound of a woman and it was coming from Mrs. Jenkins’ farm.

Rain spurred her horse into a full gallop, exhausting the poor tired animal that was only slightly bettered cared for than herself. Rain’s heart was pounding when she came upon the now familiar fence line. The Widow Jenkins was wrapped up in a fierce struggle with a scruffy man. Rain recognized the rogue instantly as Brett Thornsby. Brett was the local bully who fancied himself as something of a ladies’ man. Rain had correctly deduced that the only time he spent with a lady was paid for.

As he attempted to maul the struggling woman, Rain realized that Brett had another tactic with the ladies. A man like him made the young blonde sick to her stomach. Her horse neatly jumped the fence, and as his hooves touched the ground, Rain jumped off. The grace of their motion surprised both the woman and her steed.

As she struggled with Brett, Mrs. Jenkins was proving that she was not the shrinking violet that most women Rain encountered pretended to be. The raven-haired beauty was pummeling the unruly cad senseless as Rain made her descent. As Rain neared the battling duo, the blonde harbored sincere doubts that Mrs. Jenkins required her assistance.

Still the petite blonde possessed an urgent desire to beat the bully senseless as well. She hated bullies and everything the callous cowards stood for. Her father had been a bully. He and all the pious folks back in Twin Corners were nothing but a group of ignorant bullies that had made her who she was today.

Just as Mrs. Jenkins landed a powerful blow directly into Brett’s midsection, Rain spun the despicable creature around and delivered a powerful blow of her own. She hit him squarely in his ugly face.

"Nice shot," Mrs. Jenkins complimented her.

"Bitches," the stunned man spat out as he lunged for the both of them.

"Oh no," Rain grumbled as she ducked away from the large man.

"I’m going to kick your sorry ass," Mrs. Jenkins screamed as she yanked him away from Rain. The blonde smiled at her bravado.

Soon she was jumping in to rescue the brunette. Together they unleashed a melee of punches and kicks against their larger opponent. Finally Rain landed a powerful blow in the man’s face; the sickening sound of bones crunching as blood oozed from his nose confirmed that she had hit what she’d aimed for. Thankfully Brett finally collapsed onto the ground in a heap.

Henry had just returned in a cart and was rushing towards them as Mrs. Jenkins smoothed out her dress. "Well, your dinner is ruined," Mrs. Jenkins commented dryly. Rain just stared back in surprise after noticing the ruined basket lying on the ground.

Rain was still staring as Henry’s large form reached them. The widow was a tall woman, close to six feet, and Henry stood a good shoulder above her and had a chest the size of a small wagon. "Henry, you missed all the fun," Mrs. Jenkins merrily quipped. "Would you mind hogtying this pig and hauling his sorry ass down to the jail?"

"Well, it is my job to dispose of the garbage," Henry drew out slowly.

Rain’s emerald eyes widened even further at Mrs. Jenkins’ colorful language. During the fight itself the respectable widow had strung together some words that would have made a hardened foot soldier blush. At the time Rain had been too involved with the heated battle to notice. Now she was shocked right down to her blonde roots.

Henry snatched Brett’s limp body up by the back of his shirt collar and began to drag him towards the house. Mrs. Jenkins wrapped her arm in Rain’s and urged her to follow him. "Do I want to know what happened?" Henry inquired.

"I’ll tell you in the morning." Mrs. Jenkins sighed. "Just tell the sheriff that he tried to take advantage of me. It’s late so why don’t you stay in town for the night? Take some money from the jar and have yourself a good time."

Henry simply nodded in response as Rain allowed the brunette to lead her towards the small well kept home. The blonde looked over her shoulder to find the horse following close behind. "Now I need to fix you some dinner," Mrs. Jenkins offered thoughtfully to Rain.

The blonde turned to the woman in surprise, her arm tingling from the intimate contact. "I couldn’t . . . ," she began to protest.

"I insist," Mrs. Jenkins asserted firmly. "I need to thank you for your extreme heroism."

"Excuse me?" Rain said in confusion. She looked over at Henry who was still dragging Brett across the ground. She was quite certain that Henry could have easily carried the man, yet he seemed happier to be dragging him. Rain was pleased with the idea as well.

"Are you doubting your bravery?" Mrs. Jenkins inquired as she began to gently caress Rain’s arm. The blonde wanted to sink into the sensations Mrs. Jenkins’ touch was sending through her body.

"I am," Rain finally managed to choke out. "I think you had the situation quite well in hand." Henry snorted in agreement.

"Ssh, Henry," Mrs. Jenkins scolded him. "No, you’re my heroine and I must properly thank you."

A rash of goose bumps erupted on Rain’s skin as the timber of Mrs. Jenkins tone dropped to sensual level. If Henry noticed he didn’t show it. "No disrespect, Mrs. Jenkins, but I was about ready to sell tickets and place a wager on your impending victory." Mrs. Jenkins released a hearty laugh.

"Since you know my name perhaps you will share yours, my beautiful savior?" Mrs. Jenkins implored her as she released her arm to step up onto the porch.

"Rain," the blonde replied as she blushed from the compliment.

"Rain?" Mrs. Jenkins responded with a doubtful look.

"It’s what I call myself," Rain boldly responded as her body craved to feel the woman’s touch once again.

"Rain it is then," Mrs. Jenkins concluded with a flourish. "And what is his name?" She pointed towards her horse.

"Doesn’t have one," Rain responded with a shrug.

"Shame on you," Mrs. Jenkins scolded her. "Well, put your fine stallion in the barn. Henry will show you the stall that would be appropriate and then please join me inside the house. I don’t pay attention to such matters."

"Mrs. Jenkins . . . ," Rain began to protest once again, wishing only to escape back to the safety of the open road. There she could indulge her body in what she was certain Mrs. Jenkins would never offer her.

"Shirley," the attractive woman cut her off.

"Shirley?" Rain uttered in surprise.

"Problem?" Mrs. Jenkins shot back.

"No, it’s lovely," Rain lied, thinking that the name did not suit the vision of beauty standing before her.

"My very dear friends call me Sher, and since you and I are destined to become the very best of friends, that is what you shall call me," Sher firmly instructed her. "Now go stable Horace."

"Horace?" Rain blurted out in bewilderment.

"A fine and noble name for a fine and noble animal," Sher reasoned. "Now off with you; Henry really should tie up Mr. Thornsby before he wakes up. I don’t have time to engage in another altercation; I have a dinner to prepare." Having had her say, Sher spun on her heel and entered the house.

Rain stood there in astonishment before she collected what was left of her thoughts. "Is she always like that?" the blonde asked the chuckling handyman.

"Oh yeah," he responded with a toothy grin. "Come on, Rain. You too, Horace."

"His name isn’t Horace," Rain vehemently protested as the horse simply followed Henry into the barn. "Traitor," she grumbled as she threw her hands up in defeat. She followed the pair into the barn and settled Horace into a stall while Henry tied Brett up.

"Have a good night, Horace," she offered once she finished brushing the animal down. Surprisingly the horse seemed to respond to the name. "Great. She’s named my horse," she muttered bitterly.

"Need a hand?" she offered as Henry lifted a moaning Brett into the cart.

"No thanks," Henry said with a shrug as he tossed Brett into the cart bed. Brett’s head slammed into the back wall as he landed. "I’ll see you in the morning, Rain."

"I don’t think so," Rain shyly protested; she planned to be long gone by the time the rooster crowed. She had already stayed longer in Stafford then she was accustomed to. Her reaction to Mrs. Jenkins’ touch convinced her that it was time to be moving on.

"I’ll pick up some extra feed for Horace," Henry added as he climbed up into the cart, ignoring her comment.

"I won’t be staying," she argued. Henry simply laughed lightly before flicking the reins and driving off. "I’m not staying," she repeated to herself as she climbed up onto the porch. She wiped her dusty boots off before stepping into the simple yet well decorated home.

"You need a bath," came the sultry purr from behind her. Rain’s heart and stomach clenched as she turned around to find Mrs. Jenkins leaning in the doorway to the kitchen, casting a smoky gaze over Rain’s body.

"Mrs. Jenkins, I really do appreciate the kindness that you have shown me over the past few weeks . . . ," Rain began, firm in her convictions to leave this woman’s company as soon as possible.

"Sher," the brunette corrected her. "Now I think a bath before dinner would be the wisest course of action."

"Mrs. Jenkins . . . ," Rain began to whine as the taller woman slowly approached her.

"Sher," the woman corrected her once again.

"Fine. Sher." Rain agreed in an exasperated tone. "I haven’t set foot in another person’s home in more years than I care to think about. I’m not fit company for a lady such as yourself."

Sher studied the agitated blonde for a brief moment before raising her brow in defiance. "Rain, I decide who is or is not welcome in my home," she offered in a calm tone as she placed a comforting hand on the smaller woman’s shoulder. Rain couldn’t stop the shudder her eager body released. Sher’s fingers drifted up the blonde’s neck and her fingers began to caress her cheek. "Rain, my late husband was a fine man," Sher explained in a soft voice as her fingertips continued to caress Rain’s delicate features. "He was much older than myself and cared for me deeply despite how we met."

"Hmm," Rain sighed as she leaned into Sher’s gentle caresses. "Wait," Rain said as she snapped out of her trance. "Mrs. Jenkins, I’ll bed down in the barn with Horace and then be on my way. You’ve already shown me far more kindness than I’ve seen in a very long time," Rain reasoned as her body screamed at her stupidity.

"And just where is it that you’re heading?" Sher asked as her hands came to rest on the small blonde’s shoulders.

"Nowhere," Rain confessed as Sher’s body brushed against her own.

"Then one more night won’t delay your arrival," Sher reasoned as she leaned even closer to the trembling blonde. "I promised to properly thank you and I mean to do just that."

Rain moaned as she felt Sher’s breasts brush against her body. Sher leaned in even closer, her breath caressing the blonde’s face. Rain felt flush as her body heat began to rise. "Thank you," Sher whispered, her lips almost grazing Rain’s as she spoke. Rain’s body melted as Sher’s full lips brushed against her own.

Rain’s eyes drifted shut as she leaned into the kiss and Sher’s tongue tickled her bottom lip. She parted her lips and greeted Sher’s tongue with her own. They engaged in a sensual duel as they explored the warmth of one another’s mouth. Rain’s small hands followed the curves of Sher’s body as the brunette’s hands drifted down her back.

The kiss deepened as Sher’s hands cupped her firm backside and Rain’s hands felt their way up the taller woman’s back. As Sher caressed her bottom, Rain could feel her desire dampening her trousers. Her hips swayed against the brunette’s body as their tongues continued to wrestle for control. Rain’s nipples tightened as Sher’s hand grew more insistent, pressing the smaller woman more tightly against her body.

Rain cursed the need to breathe as the fiery kiss came to an end. "You’re welcome," Rain panted as she licked her lips, savoring the remnants of Sher’s kiss.

"I’m not through thanking you yet," Sher insisted as she continued to knead Rain’s cheeks. "My sweet beautiful savior, I’ve only just begun to show you my gratitude," Sher whispered hotly in Rain’s ear.

Rain moaned as Sher nibbled on her sensitive earlobe. Sher’s talented mouth began to feast on her neck as her hands drifted up along the blonde’s body. Rain could only whimper as Sher continued to express her gratitude. Rain’s head fell back, her hat falling to the floor as Sher cupped her breasts and began to suckle her neck.

Rain’s body arched as Sher caressed her aching breasts. Her fingers fumbled to undo the buttons on the back of the taller woman’s fine dress. She fought to keep her hands steady as she felt her own shirt buttons being released; Sher’s tongue and mouth tasted her newly exposed flesh.

Having freed the buttons down to Sher’s slim waist, Rain reached up and untied the ribbon that held her hair up. The silky mass welcomed her fingers as she wrapped them in the raven locks. The soft scent of vanilla mixed with jasmine greeted her. ‘Oh God, it was her blanket I was sleeping under. It was as if she was wrapped around me while I touched myself.’ Her mind raced as the erotic image filled her senses.

Rain reluctantly released the silky tresses so Sher could remove her shirt. Sher kissed her shoulders as Rain clasped the taller woman’s hips. Sher ran her hands down the frayed chemise that covered the blonde’s breasts before slowly untying it. Rain whimpered as Sher’s hands began to caress her stomach.

Sher’s hands brushed her breasts as she lowered the undergarment from Rain’s body. The blonde’s body was quivering with desire as Sher began to massage her breasts. Rain held Sher’s hips tighter as the brunette began to roll and pinch her aching nipples.

Rain gasped in pleasure as Sher captured one of her nipples in her mouth. The brunette’s other hand drifted between their bodies and began to undo Rain’s belt as she eagerly suckled Rain’s nipple. Rain wrapped one arm around Sher’s waist as she once again ran her fingers through the brunette’s hair. She arched her body as she pressed the woman’s head against her breast, offering more of herself up to the woman’s touch.

As Sher’s teeth grazed Rain’s hardened nipple, the brunette was undoing the buttons on the blonde’s trousers. Sher’s mouth licked and tasted her way across Rain’s chest until she captured her other nipple in her mouth and began to lavish it with the same sweet attention its twin had received. Rain’s hips thrust against Sher as her body hummed with a needy desire.

Rain was certain that she was going to explode as Sher began to kiss her way down her body. As Sher made her descent, she tugged Rain’s clothing down. Sher’s hands clasped her naked backside as she playfully dipped her tongue into Rain’s navel.

The blonde’s chest was heaving as the scent of her own arousal filled her senses. She steadied herself by clutching Sher’s broad shoulders as she urged the brunette to continue her journey. Sher pushed Rain’s clothing further down her body; her long dark hair caressed Rain’s trembling thighs, further fanning the flames of her passion.

She was covered in a sheen of sweat when she heard Sher growling; Rain’s boots were preventing her from completely removing the blonde wanderer’s clothes. Sher abandoned her quest and Rain felt her thighs being gently nudged apart as the brunette’s tongue ran slowly up one of her legs.

Rain opened herself up further as she felt Sher licking away the passion that had painted the inside of her thighs. Rain’s breathing grew ragged as she gazed down upon the raven-haired beauty nestled between her thighs. She released a strangled cry as she felt Sher’s tongue dip into her wetness.

The blonde clung to Sher’s shoulders as the brunette’s tongue glided along her swollen nether lips, drinking in Rain’s overflowing passion. Sher massaged the blonde’s firm round backside as she continued to drink in her passion. Rain’s hips thrust forward, silently begging her lover to take all of her.

Sher responded by plunging her tongue deep inside the blonde’s center. Rain was panting as she felt Sher’s talented tongue curl and plunge deeper inside of her. Sher continued to caress her backside while plunging in and out of her wetness. Rain’s hips thrust urgently, matching her lover’s sensual rhythm. "Sweet Jesus," Rain cried out as she cupped the back of her lover’s head, guiding her to take her deeper and harder. "That’s it," Rain groaned as Sher’s tongue slipped from the warmth of her center and began to flicker across her throbbing clit.

She felt the hood being teased before Sher suckled her clit in the warmth of her mouth. Rain was losing control as Sher teased her clit with her teeth and her tongue and pressed two fingers against the opening of her center. Rain’s hips thrust against Sher’s hand as she begged her to be inside of her.

Rain’s thrusts grew frantic as the long fingers entered the warm wetness, filling her as Sher suckled her harder. Sher began to move her fingers and tongue in a passionate rhythm that Rain’s body moved to match.

Rain lost herself in the sensation of Sher loving her as her knees buckled slightly. Rain fought against the explosion building inside of her, never wanting to feel her lover stop pleasuring her. Sher took her deeper and hard as Rain’s body arched and the waves of passion captured her body. The climax ripped through her as she screamed out in ecstasy.

Rain fought to remain standing as Sher kissed her quivering stomach while her fingers remained in her warm wet center. Brilliant blue eyes gazed up at her as she tried to control her breathing. Rain moaned as she felt her lover’s touch slip from it’s cocoon. She watched as Sher licked her fingers clean. As her lover’s tongue glided across her fingers, slowly suckling the wetness, Rain cupped one of her breasts and slowly began to roll one of her nipples between her fingers.

Sher released a soft purr as she watched Rain touching herself. "Thank me again," Rain requested in a shaky tone as she guided her lover’s head back to her passion. Rain continued to tease her nipple as Sher’s tongue once again flickered across her throbbing nub. The sound of Sher’s enjoyment was music to the blonde drifter’s ears as she watched her lover’s tongue darting in and out of her wetness.

Rain’s hips swayed as Sher eagerly drank in her nectar. Rain pinched her nipple harder as she felt Sher suckling her clit. The sounds of her climax were already filling the room as Sher’s mouth drove her once again over the edge. Rain’s body began to collapse. Sher gathered her up in her arms and held her tightly as the aftershocks rippled through the smaller woman’s body.

Rain clung to her lover and began to suckle the brunette’s nipple through the soft material of her dress. She felt Sher’s body arch against her own as she sucked harder on the nipple. Soon the need to feel more of her lover’s body had the drifter slipping the woman’s dress from her shoulders.

Rain struggled with the buttons and other restrictions the fashionable garment provided. Finally she had managed to slip the dress and Sher’s undergarments down to the brunette’s waist. They were still kneeling on the floor as Rain raised her lover up to the sofa. Rain ran her fingers down Sher’s back as the brunette moaned in pleasure.

With one hand Rain continued to caress the soft skin of her lover’s back while she slowly lifted the hem of her dress up to her waist. "Do you want this?" the blonde inquired in a soft sensual tone as both her hands drifted to Sher’s slender waist.

"Oh yes," Sher moaned in desire. She gathered her dress up even further while Rain began to lower her bloomers down to her knees.

Rain nestled herself behind her lover, pressing her nipples into the brunette’s naked back while her wetness brushed her backside. Sher’s hips thrust backward demanding more as Rain brushed her raven hair away from her neck. Rain slowly kissed the nape of her lover’s neck as her damp golden curls swayed against her naked cheeks.

"Yes," Sher encouraged her as their hips moved wildly in unison. Rain loved the feel of her lover’s skin dancing against her aching clit. "Yes," Sher repeated with an urgent scream as Rain reached around her and began to stroke her clit. Sher’s desire coated her fingers as she continued to rock her body wildly.

Rain could feel Sher’s thighs trembling as they opened, inviting the blonde further inside of her aching need. Rain lifted her body slightly so she could tease Sher’s clit with the pad of her thumb while she entered her with her fingers. Rain’s fingers plunged in and out of her lover as her thrusting hips followed the same frantic pace.

"Yes, Rain!" Sher cried out as she exploded under the blonde’s body. Sher clung to the plush cushions of the sofa as Rain continued pleasuring her. Soon her lover could only call out her name over and over again until she collapsed. Rain stilled her movements as Sher panted. "Keep going," the woman managed to choke out. "Want to feel you again." Rain held her lover for a moment before slipping her fingers slowly out of her warmth.

The blonde clasped her lover’s hips and began to rock against the brunette. Sher moaned deeply as she allowed Rain to ride against her body. Rain was straddling her lover, their bodies gyrating, until their screams rang out as they crossed over the edge.

They held one another in a tender embrace until the beating of their hearts had slowed to a normal level. "Now about that bath," Sher teased her as she kissed her nose. Rain sighed contentedly as her lover kissed her lips. "I’ll need to heat some water," Sher continued thoughtfully.

"You’re like a force of nature," Rain noted.

"Oh pshaw," Sher chastised her as she stood and removed the rest of her clothes before tossing them on the floor. "Now get those boots and the rest of your things off so we can take our bath."

"I can’t stay," Rain reminded her as Sher strutted towards the kitchen in all her naked glory.

Sher paused along her route to light a couple of oil lamps. "I know. You’re in a hurry to go nowhere," Sher responded in disbelief as she struck another match. "Ouch." She flinched as an errant spark touched her skin.

"Are you all right?" Rain quickly inquired in concern.

"Yes." Sher shrugged. "Lesson learned. There are some things that one shouldn’t do naked. Do you still have those boots on? I’m going to have to break you of that habit."

"Sher, I can’t stay," Rain protested with uncertainty.

"Right - in a hurry to get to nowhere," Sher conceded with a shrug as she disappeared into the kitchen. "But I haven’t finished thanking you yet," the brunette called out.

Rain was struggling to remove her boots as the impact of Sher’s statement struck her. "She’s going to kill me," the blonde uttered with a hard swallow as her body clenched with renewed desire.

"No, I’m trying to love you," came the sincere response.

Rain looked up to find her hostess once again leaning in the doorway. "You don’t even know me," Rain choked out, trying to sound defiant as her sorrow and pain slipped through with her words.

"I understand you better than you think," Sher answered her in a soft honest voice, maintaining her perch in the doorway. "Rain, I’m offering you a bath, a hot meal, a bed to sleep in tonight, and a body to share it with. When you’re ready to move on, you’re free to go."

Rain just stared at her as she fought against the tears that were threatening to escape. "Now hurry up and get those damn boots off. The water is almost ready," Sher chastised her.

"Already?" Rain responded in amazement. "You certainly do move fast."

"You’re just figuring that out?" Sher chuckled. "Now get a move on and while we take our bath I’ll tell you all about Horace."

"My horse?" Rain said in confusion as she renewed her battle with her boots.

"No, silly, my husband." Sher sighed as she knelt down and began to assist Rain with her footwear.

"You named my horse after your late husband?" Rain gasped in surprise.

"A noble name for a noble animal," Sher explained. "When I saw him clearing that fence to save me, I knew then that he should be named Horace." Sher continued assisting Rain in removing her clothing. "You see, Rain, I do know you; in fact at one time in my life I was you. But Horace saved me."

"And now you’re trying to save me?" Rain grumbled.

"No," Sher corrected her as she assisted the naked blonde to her feet. "I’m trying to love you. Not out of pity, but because I want to love you. The water should be ready. I should warn you about something," Sher continued as she led the blonde towards the kitchen.

"You’re insane?" Rain commented wryly as they entered the kitchen.

"Tsk," Sher scolded her as she began to pour the water into the clawfoot tub in the corner of the room. "No. I plan on getting fresh with you while we bath."

"Oh well, if you must," Rain stammered as she blushed. She watched as Sher tested the temperature of the water. Sher smiled in response as she held out her hand. Rain accepted the woman’s hand and her entire body felt the warmth of Sher’s gentle touch.

Rain sighed in delight as she lowered herself into the warm water. Sher knelt beside the tub and dipped a cloth into the water and then lathered it with soap. Rain watched her lover’s hands foaming with lather and inhaled sharply as she felt the warm soapy cloth run along her body.

Sher slowly ran the cloth down Rain’s shoulders, along her arms, and up the swell of her breasts. The brunette’s touch lingered upon reaching her bosom until Rain was moaning with desire. Sher continued to wash her breasts as she climbed into the tub and positioned herself behind Rain’s body. "You are very beautiful," Sher whispered in her ear. The timber of her lover’s voice sent shivers up and down Rain’s spine.

Rain relaxed into her lover’s touch as Sher continued to cleanse her body. She loved the feel of the brunette’s breasts rubbing against her back. Rain hadn’t noticed that Sher had set the washcloth down until she felt the brunette’s hands cupping her breasts. Rain’s back arched as Sher kneaded her ample bosom playfully. Her eyes fluttered shut as she felt one of Sher’s hands drift along the curves of her body.

She moaned as she felt the tips of her lover’s fingers teasing the blonde curls of her triangle. She leaned back against Sher’s body as a single finger stroked her clit. Sher continued to roll her nipple between her thumb and her forefinger while she teased her nub.

Rain leaned her head back and captured Sher’s lips; the blonde could once again taste her own passion on her lover’s lips. Sher continued to tenderly caress her nipple and clit. As Rain sank into the feel of the tender kiss and her lover’s touch, everything felt right for the first time since discovering her passion for women.

Once again Rain released her passion into her lover’s body. The tender kiss continued as Sher wrapped her arms and endless legs around the smaller woman. Rain was smiling as she leaned her head back against her lover’s shoulder. "Why?" Rain asked in a small voice.

"Why what?" Sher responded as she nuzzled the blonde’s neck.

"Why would you want to love me?" Rain shyly asked.

"Because there’s something about you that draws me to you," Sher responded honestly. "Your smile, your laugh . . . I don’t know what it is but you have captured my heart. That and you’re drop dead gorgeous."

Rain once again found herself blushing. "When I leave . . ."

"If," Sher cut her off.

Rain opened her mouth to respond but words failed her. Everything she had learned in life told her to run. Yet everything she was feeling screamed for her to stay. She was also drawn to this woman and not from the kindness or the intimacy. "I not leaving, am I?" she said aloud as she smiled.

"I don’t think so," Sher softly answered.

Rain relaxed in her lover’s embrace as she pondered the future while Sher began to tell her about the late Mr. Jenkins. It was a tale that wasn’t completed until after the bath and a quick meal Sher threw together. After the meal they retired to Sher’s bedroom. Rain had begun to wonder if it was simply the intimacy that was drawing the older woman to her. But that night Sher simply held her. For the first time in years, Rain felt wanted and loved. She was frightened when she realized that she loved the quirky widow as well. As she drifted off to sleep, she promised herself that she would return to her endless journey. She soon lost track of the number of times that she promised herself that she would leave at dawn. And each dawn she would awaken in her lover’s arms, knowing that she was going to stay.

The End