Chapter 13

 I cast a quick look over my shoulder at Nika as I stepped through the bedroom doorway. I smiled at her look of open mouthed shock as I found a lamp and bent to plug it in. Before I could stand I felt Nika come up behind me and press her pelvis into my ass as she slid her hands around my waist. I was completely soaked and swollen with desire. Still half bent over I braced my hands on the wall to push back against her. Shivers of want broke free of my core and shot straight to my nipples as Nika's hands slid up to my breasts. I gasped and enjoyed the tickle of her bush against my sensitized cheeks.

Standing up I reveled in the exquisite heat of Nika's hands roaming all over me. I tipped my head back to capture those full lips. Left hand tangled in her soft hair I used my right hand to reach back to Nika's hip caressing her curves trying to tantalize her even further. Still kissing I reached lower to delve into her wetness. Nika gasped away from my lips for a moment before reconnecting and deepening our kiss. Her hands plunged down my abdomen diving into me. Nika moaned at the liquid state of me before she began a slow torture of my clit. Because I refused to release her she wasn't able to penetrate me completely but she made sure I knew she wanted to. Spreading me with one hand she massaged and pressed with the other. Her fingertips trilling over my eager clit soon had me shaking and mentally begging her for more.

Her moaning verged on frustration as I slid a single finger into her, toyed with her entrance and pulled out. I repeated the same process until Nika began quietly grunting my name. I felt her press against me nipples bumping my shoulder blades and hipbones grinding into my behind as she came. Almost falling we stumbled closer to the wall. Nika recovered quickly and lifted me up pressing me against the cool surface, my nipples hardened with the contact, overcome with sensation I barely realized that Nika had managed to lower herself as she lifted me. I was on tiptoe now balancing on one of my lovers strong thighs as her lips sucked at the top of my shoulder. Nika somehow managed to hold me up and toy with my nipple while the dexterous fingers of her other hand plunged suddenly deep inside me. A choked gasp left my throat as Nika continued to plunge into me. Sliding upwards the heel of her hand spread me wide and pressed hard against my clit. Nika’s entire body moved in time with her fingers, causing my nipples to skid up and down the wall. My ass welcomed the spreading pressure of her thigh while my pussy shook and pulled at her, not wanting her to stop. A profusion of ecstasy spread though me, building stronger and stronger with each press and thrust. Pressing my forehead to the wall my moans joined Nika's as orgasm after orgasm shook through me.

Leaning against the wall breathing hard our bodies slowly relaxed. Once my feet were firmly back on the hardwood I turned around and pulled Nika to me for a long delicious kiss. She gasped my name once or twice as I maneuvered her towards the bed. We broke off the kiss and simply stared at each other. Nika's eyes were still dilated with passion as her gaze explored every contour of my face as though looking for some explanation.

“Kathryn, love, you're amazing, that was...” She shook her head and smiled wantonly.

“Help me find the sheets, darling, I'm not done with you yet!” I knew I was smirking; I kissed her once again quickly before I turned to the boxes stacked along the wall.



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

Kathryn quickly found some sheets; they were a loud pattern of green palm leaves still in the packaging. She snickered and zipped open the clear bag.

“A gift from Peg, She thought they were festive.” Kathryn explained as she walked back toward the bed. I didn't give the sheets a second thought with her walking towards me with that look of utter sexiness. She leaned into kiss me again. “Shall we?” she said, before she could step away I pulled her to me and kissed her deeply.

“Mmmm, yes.” I smirked right back at her.

Luckily the pillows were easy to find and still had the nice blue pillowcases from last night. I tossed them on the bed and helped tuck in the sheet. Once the fitted sheet was stretched taut Kathryn haphazardly flicked and lowered the top sheet. She climbed onto the bed and crawled towards me looking dangerous. She pulled me onto the mattress and into another searing kiss. I could feel my heart once again speeding up and the muscles of my core tense in anticipation. Kathryn encouraged me onto my back and I happily complied. Heat and desire passed between us like surging electricity. Her hands seemed everywhere at once as she crouched over me her lips never leaving mine.

“Darling, I want you to roll over.” She said softly, I looked at her for a moment before she added a quiet “please.” She sat up so I could. I relaxed into the position with my arms comfortably reaching above me and my back arched just enough to feel good. At the first touch of Kathryn's hands on my ass I started to throb. I got even more aroused thinking of being in such a vulnerable position for her – offering myself to her – telling her that I am hers in every way.

“Kathryn.” I drew out her name for the sheer joy of saying it. I arched my back a little bit more.

I heard her breath catch before she leaned down and kissed me, right at the base of my spine. I thought I might orgasm right then. “I want you, so much.” I said.

“You've got me, my love.” She replied. Then her tongue, lips and fingertips began a thorough exploration of my body. Her hard nipples grazed my skin as she nibbled her way up my back. I held back a moan. Kissing her way back down she stopped and repeatedly brushed her nipples along my buttocks. A curious tingling warmth spread over me. I wondered what it might feel like if she spanked me. Something I had never imagined before was suddenly a very exciting possibility. I shivered as Kathryn's mouth replaced her nipples. Now it was her teeth grazing over my sensitized ass. Nips alternated with sucking kisses while her hands massaged the tops of my thighs. I was so ready for release I would have willingly begged her. I braced my hands on the headboard to press back against her desperate to communicate my need.

“Nika, you are a goddess.” she had leaned up to whisper in my ear.

“Kathryn, please!” I started to speak but she silenced me with a slick finger against my lips. I wasn't certain if it was Kathryn or myself I tasted as she played her fingertip over my tongue.

“Darling, will you indulge me?” she asked.

“Anything.” I gasped honestly. She kissed me just below my ear.

“Press yourself together for me darling, yes your legs, and your bottom, clench it tight for me.”

I complied and felt shudders of delight from the muscle tension. “Just like that darling.” Kathryn moved away and I wasn't sure what she was doing. She straddled my behind and soon enough I felt her wetness pressing down on me. “Now relax my love.” As I did she ground herself down on me and cried out. In relaxing my buttocks I had spread her further apart and was certain I could feel her stretched open labia pressed against me. My pussy sang when she bore down and pressed me into the mattress, my ass delighted in her wetness when I arched up against her. I tried clenching again which elicited a loud moan from Kathryn. My own need for release faded slightly as I concentrated on helping Kathryn come. She started to buck every time I clenched and soon she lost control. Her fingers dug into my sides as she rode me, desperate to maintain the abundant friction and suction. Kathryn managed to hang on as I set the pace of our rhythm. I was rewarded with a flood of liquid heat. I stayed with the rhythm as Kathryn continued to writhe and buck for a few more moments until she collapsed panting on my shoulder. “Nika, I love you so much.” Kathryn sighed and rearranged her self along my side. I rolled over to pull her into my arms. She snuggled into the crook of my neck and sighed contentedly.

“That was pretty hot.” I said before I kissed her forehead. She was still breathing hard.

“I'm glad you liked it.” Kathryn replied before she began to nibble my collarbone.

“Oh, indeed.” I said, I took hold of her left hand and guided it towards my bush. I was copiously wet, “I liked it a lot!” She held her breath in surprise for just a moment as I pressed our fingers over my swollen sex. Kathryn moved to kiss my lips and rolled me onto my back in the process. I wanted her so! Her thigh between mine, her fingers pushing inside and yet she continued to deny me. She straddled my waist as we were kissing. I rolled my hips with need.

“Kathryn please!” I begged, when she gasped for air. She smiled her secret sexy smile for me and moved down to kiss my breasts. She took her time with each of my nipples, teasing swipes with her tongue, then slow pulls into her mouth to suck until I arched my back almost in pain for want of release. When her lips finally descended into my wetness I had to stifle a scream with the back of my hand. Kathryn moaned into me sending vibrations straight through me to the base of my spine. My hips rolled ever so slightly as I fought to stay in control. I moaned out her name again and again while she suckled my clit. Her soft pulls became more insistent and I knew I couldn't hold back any longer. She used her delicate hands to spread me open and I forced my knees as wide as I could; loving the feeling of complete vulnerability and trust in her. Kathryn treated me to even more passion than she had in the living room. I shook with the intensity of my initial orgasm. There was no stopping her, somehow she managed to stay with me as I rolled and bucked. Another wave hit me and I felt carried further to new levels of ecstasy. I cried out her name again as pure pleasure shot through me. I forgot to breathe for a moment and then it happened, the shaking delicious waves gathered together and held me up, mid-current, I completely lost myself to the continuous flow of sensation. From the base of my spine upward a flow of lightness traveled, like the cells themselves were moving faster. It felt like our passion and love for one another became a physical force, something divine that uncoiled and flowed through me; held me fixed in a swirling galaxy of joy. Some time later I came back to myself, I was panting and quietly chanting Kathryn's name. A quick swipe of her tongue drove a final spike of pleasure through me. I lay gasping as she moved up to mold herself against my right side, I could feel the muscles of her face contract into a smile as she snuggled my chest. Her fingertips traced odd patterns over my skin.

“Mmmm, my love you are so delicious.” Kathryn said.

“Kathryn, I think I just had my first spiritual experience.” I replied only half joking.

“Rapture, hmmm, wait only one?” Kathryn looked up at me. I grinned at her.

“I was a little too distracted to count but way more than one!” I said. She looked smug.

“Are you sure, you wouldn't like,” her fingers traced their way to my core, “just a little bit more.” Kathryn's smile was wicked and I couldn't quite believe what she was saying.

“You're completely insatiable!” I said before moving in to kiss her.

“Mmmm that's entirely your fault!” She said as she dipped one slender finger into me which caused my whole body to jolt, arching even my neck. “I wasn’t like this before you, Nika.” Our lips reconnected and I gave up trying to control my self as Kathryn's hand dipped deeper and deeper, determined to return me to my recent state of bliss.



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



The General, same as I remembered it from all the hours I spent at Dad's bedside. The same long beige corridors with built in hand rails interrupted only by the shiny wood veneer of the doors. The clerk at the desk had looked me over and raised a doubtful eyebrow when I told him who I was visiting.

“You a relative?” He asked.

“Her employer.” I replied, a shade of a lie, she did get shot while cleaning my house after all.

I accepted the card he wrote her room number on and continued upstairs. She shared the room with three other women. I thought she was asleep as I approached the bed. Her face was turned away gazing out the window, strands of ebony hair peeked out from her bright headscarf. I had come during work hours hoping to avoid her family; there was no one else with her. I smiled when she finally noticed me.

“I hope you like daisies.” I said, moving to put the vase of red and yellow gerberas on her side table. I noticed there was a single 'Get well' card and nothing else. She blinked at me looking confused.

“Do I know you?” She asked with a shy smile and worried look in her eye. She was quite beautiful, even with the dark circles under her eyes. I pulled the curtain around so her curious room-mates would stop staring.

“Kathryn,” I lowered my voice, “Ridgeway.” She still looked confused. “It was at my house, when you were ...” Understanding bloomed in her expression.

“Oh, I'm so sorry.” She said.

“No need for you to be sorry, I'm the one who should apologize.”

“I'm Amal.” She said, slowly extending her hand. I shook it gently and nodded.

“Yes, I know.” We stared at each other for a moment awkwardly.

“He was trying to kill you?” She asked; I simply nodded yes. “Your Husband?” again I nodded.

Amal squeezed my hand. “Will you divorce him?” She looked genuinely concerned for me! I squeezed her hand between both of mine.

“Oh yes, we've lived apart for years.” I explained.

“Good. I don't understand it; women have such freedom here and yet so many stay with ...”

“Bastards?” I said. She smiled a tight smile and shook her head a little.

“I had a stronger word in mind.” she laughed a little and I grinned. Something changed in her eyes and I wondered what she was thinking. I was also wondering why it felt so natural to be holding hands with her.

“Where are you from, if you don't mind me asking?” She releasing my hand, and looked out the window behind me.

“Iran.” she said so quietly I barely heard. Her eyes met mine, searching for something.

“If you'd rather not talk about it...” I offered to drop the subject but she continued, again speaking so quietly I had to lean close to her to hear her clearly.

“I was in a difficult situation, but I was lucky enough to get out, and lucky enough to find a way to come here.” She said. It was clear to me there was much more to her story than she was telling me. t I didn't think it was any of my business, but it seemed she wanted to tell me more.

“The war must have made things worse?” I asked encouraging her to continue.

“Oh, thankfully I left before that, but then – well, now I have no idea what happened . . . to my family, I mean.” Her eyes searched my face. She looked desperate.

“Surely there's some way to contact them.” I said, again she looked away and tension showed on her face.

“I left without their permission; anyways it was a long time ago.” She glanced at the vase, “thank you for the flowers, they're lovely.” I barely heard her thanks because my mind was stuck on the word 'permission.'

“I'm really very sorry this happened to you, I'm sure you've been through enough already. Is there anything you need, anything I can help you with?”

“No, no, it was very nice of you to come.” She smiled again looking livelier than when I had arrived. Her light brown eyes seemed brighter.

“Do you know how long you have to stay?” I asked.

“A few more days. It is a bad place to get hit, several things can go wrong.” She sounded apologetic again.

“Honestly Amal, if there is anything I can do for you please let me know. I feel I'm in your debt.” She shook her head when I said this.

“No, you're not, really,” she paused, “but if you have time to visit again that would be lovely, I haven't many friends here so-” She seemed a bit embarrassed.

“Is there anyone I should contact?” I asked. She shook her head 'no,' smiling a little but still embarrassed. “Magazines? Chocolate?” I smiled my most charming smile and she grinned at me. I suddenly wondered if she was flirting with me.

“Perhaps some chocolate.” she said half laughing.

“Alright, I'll come see you tomorrow.” I said. She nodded like she didn't quite believe me and I left. The least I could give her was a bit of my time, she'd literally taken a bullet for me. I thought about Nika and how I would feel if it was her lying in that bed. I strode over to the nurses station to speak to someone about Amal.



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



“I'm certain there is more to her story.” Kathryn said, adeptly changing lanes.

“Well, maybe it's too painful to talk about; I can't imagine she's had it easy if she's here alone.”

“You're right. Still I can't figure out why I felt such and automatic connection to her?”

“Sometimes people just click.” I said, staring at the traffic, wishing it wasn't rush hour.

“Has that happened to you?” She asked me.

“Yes, it has.” I said, thinking back to my time in Thailand.

“So, wanna tell me about it.” Kathryn asked.

“We met on the ferry to Koh Tao, and ended up spending three months together.”

“Co – What?” Kathryn glanced at me.

“Koh Tao, it's an island in the Gulf of Thailand, popular back-packer sort of place.”

“Ah, the diving place, you took the course there.”

“Right.” I said as we pulled into the Parkade for the General Hospital.

“Three months together huh?” Kathryn said half to herself. I didn't respond and the topic was dropped as we walked to the main entrance. We checked in with visitor information where the clerk looked us over curiously. Kathryn didn't seem to notice. There is something about the smell of hospitals – that vaguely disinfectant – almost lack of smell that makes me nervous. I was also nervous about meeting Amal, Kathryn seemed quite taken with her and I was unsure of what to say to someone who had been shot in place of the woman I love; the one person who means everything to me. Kathryn was carrying a small vase of orange Gerber’s and strode ahead when we entered the private room. The woman on the bed grinned expansively when she saw Kathryn. She was propped up with a magazine on her lap and also had the TV on.

“Kathryn, this is all much too nice of you.” she reached out a hand and Kathryn took it as she set the vase down on the side table. I felt a sudden twinge of jealousy.

“It was my pleasure Amal.” Kathryn smiled softly at her.

“Well, thank you very much indeed.” She said before looking at me.

“This is Nika, Nika – Amal.” Kathryn said to introduce us. I felt awkward stepping closer to shake her hand. Her grip was quite firm for someone in her condition. I managed a quiet 'hi.'

“Very nice to meet you.” she said smiling. She didn't immediately release my hand, instead she gestured at Kathryn with her chin, “is she always so generous with complete strangers.” She asked.

I glanced at Kathryn not quite knowing what the woman meant. Kathryn made a vague movement with her hand. “She paid for all this, the private room, the TV, even had someone deliver some magazines!” Amal finally released my hand and I smiled at her. She was, indeed, charming and quick to treat you like an old friend. Kathryn was almost blushing.

“Kathryn is quite something.” I said looking at my love, who smirked at me and coughed.

“Feeling better Amal?” She asked sitting down in the chair at her bedside. Amal quickly glanced at both of us before turning her attention to Kathryn.

“Much better now that I can sleep. Those old women! One was always talking in her sleep and the other one snored like a monster, and when she wasn't snoring she was farting. So, Thank you Kathryn, now I can sleep and get healthy.” I couldn't help but grin at her facial expressions while she described the women, or the delightful expressions she elicited from Kathryn.

“What about the other one, she was younger, the blonde?” Kathryn asked. Amal's eyes went wide and she shook her head and half rolled her eyes.

“She just stared at me, frightened, like I was some sort of terrorist, even when I tried to talk to her.” Amal said.

“What? Why?” Kathryn asked. Amal tapped a fingertip on her headscarf.

“Hijab.” she said, “I swear when I walk down the street half the people ignore me and the other half look at me like I have dynamite strapped to my chest!” She shook her head and was smiling but I could hear the frustration in her voice.

“Must be lonely.” Kathryn said reaching out to pat Amal's hand. Another spark of jealousy flared inside me. Three months. Petra. Three months of traveling together not wanting it to end, three months feeling happier than I had ever imagined, but of course it did end, thanks to Shelley. I leaned back and half sat against the wide windowsill and listened to my love chat with a woman she barely knew as if they were old friends. I had been that way with Petra, laughing together by the end of the boat ride finishing each others sentences by dinner that same night. Sharing a room. I hadn't thought about Petra in a long time. Would it have worked out? Could it? If I'd followed her home to Switzerland? Could I have had a completely different life?

“Hey Neek!” I was startled out of my revelry by a young voice from the hall. Cece and Mandy were standing in the doorway. Kathryn and Amal both looked a little startled. I excused myself and met them at the door.

“Neek, what's going on? Who' you visiting?” Cece asked.

“Is Kathryn ok?” Mandy asked with a worried squeak.

“She's fine,” I said as Kathryn called out “I'm fine.” The girls giggled. I waved them into the room. “What are you two doing here?” I asked as we slowly walked closer to the bed. Amal's face was lit with curiousity. Kathryn was smiling. The girls were dressed in their usual hybrid of grunge plaid, punk black, old army boots and loudly striped tights covering various limbs.

“Moms works here.” Cece said.

“She's an RN.” Mandy explained, “we came by to have dinner with her.”

“She's got late shift.” Cece added. Both girls looked at Kathryn and Amal.

“Oh, girls this is our new friend Amal, this is Mandy and this is Cece.” Kathryn said and the girls waved shyly when she said they're names

“and you're sisters?” Amal asked. The girls stared at each other and shook their heads.

“Um no.” They said together, and laughed before focusing their attention on me.

“Nika, you have to come to group this Friday!” Mandy stated, giving me a forlorn look.

“We need another mentor.” Cece said, nodding her head to convince me.

“What group?” I asked.

“Grrrrroup! Don't you remember? We started it with some friends – we need an adult at each meeting or they won't unlock the building for us.” Mandy explained. I remembered that they had told me about this at the Donair shop but I had been too distracted to give it my full attention.

“We'll say the magic word.” Cece said leaning on my arm smiling up at me. I glanced at Kathryn who looked quite entertained by the entire situation. Amal simply sat with her eyebrows raised. “Besides you kinda promised.”

“I did?” I tried to remember.

“Yah, you did, cuz we sort of saved you, remember.” Mandy stood in front of me nodding her head, crowding my personal space, but I didn't mind.

“I did, didn't I, um how long is it?” I asked looking at Kathryn who gave the slightest nod and wink. Both girls spoke at once:

“Starts at seven.”

“Only two hours.”

“unless you come out with us after.”

“til like 8:45.”

“lots of people have to catch buses.”

“it's chill.”

“you'll love it.”

“O-kay!” I said.

“Give me your cell; I'll text you the address.” Mandy said pulling out her tiny phone.

“I don't have a cell right now.” I said. They looked at me shocked.

“Time to join the 21st century, Neek!” Cece said.

“Kathryn, how do you put up with this?” Mandy said turning to face her while spreading her arms and dropping her mouth open. Kathryn just smirked and shrugged her shoulders. “Must be love.” Mandy continued, shaking her head at me. Amal stayed silent but her eyes never stopped moving. Kathryn produced her cell phone and handed it over. Mandy quickly added her number to memory and handed it back. “Thanks, so, we should go.” Mandy said looking at Cece.

“Yeah, Moms break starts like, now.” Cece waved as they walked towards the door. “Nice to meet you!” she yelled.

“To you too.” Amal managed as they disappeared. “So many interesting friends you have, Kathryn.” Amal smiled a little.

“Well, they're more Nika's friends than mine.” Kathryn grinned up at me.

“They're a couple?” Amal asked. She looked innocently between Kathryn and me. Kathryn left it up to me. I nodded 'yes.' I returned to my place on the windowsill next to Kathryn's chair.

“So young,” Amal said glancing down at her blankets, “I wonder if they know how lucky they are?” She said it so quietly, like she was speaking to herself. She looked up and continued. “In my country it's not safe, you could be killed, or beaten, or worse.” Her eyes took on a darker hue. Kathryn and I kept quiet for a moment. Then Kathryn reached for her hand again.

“Is that why you left?” She asked. Amal looked pained and nodded 'yes.' Kathryn squeezed her hand and tears appeared in Amal's eyes but she gained control of herself quickly. “You do know that you don't have to worry about that here.” Kathryn said. I thought that wasn't completely true.

“I wish it were so, Kathryn, but that's not entirely true.” I looked at her with new respect. “And you two? You're also?” Amal asked. Kathryn reached her hand out and I took it. Neither of us spoke but Amal nodded her head knowingly. “That is wonderful. Thank you for your honesty.” she looked haunted by pain as she thanked us.

“My girlfriend and I were at the University together.” She said, noticing the surprised looks on our faces she explained. “It's not that uncommon, but usually it's hidden and everyone still has to get married. But I wouldn't – I avoided it as long as I could. Finally I ran away.”

“But where could you run to?” Kathryn asked.

“I went with a boy from school, he was gay too, he knew people in Istanbul, we pretended to be married.”

“How long were you in Turkey?” I asked becoming more intrigued with her story and letting other thoughts fade.

“Six years of working and starving to come here.” Amal looked down at her hands, she was picking at her cuticles, likely reliving her past as she spoke about it. I guessed she didn't often have the chance.

“Did you stay together? You and that guy?” I asked.

“At the beginning, but then he started socializing and getting here wasn't so important anymore, so I got a job as a live in maid.”

“And when you did finally make it here?” Kathryn asked.

“I stayed for a while with the people who sponsored me, but left as soon as I could afford it so they could help someone else. That was six years ago.” Amal smiled sadly.

“Sounds like the underground railroad.” Kathryn said smiling, and Amal shyly smiled back.

“That's exactly what it is.” Amal said, “but I want know how you two met each other. It must be a romantic story. Hmm?” Kathryn actually blushed.

“Kathryn tried to pick me up in the ladies room.” I joked.

“I never!” My love said aghast, Amal gawked at her.

“Oh really, that first time we spoke, if I hadn't left...” I said.

“Well, yes it was in the bathroom, but darling you look so irresistible in that uniform.” Kathryn smirked at me and linked her fingers with my left hand.

“So you would have gone for it in the bathroom?” I asked, doubting that she would.

“Well, I don't know if I would have or not, and now we'll never know.” Kathryn looked at me.

“You two are so funny.” Amal said with a wide smile. “I suppose if I want to meet someone I should spend more time in public washrooms.” I grinned at her but it took Kathryn a moment to realize Amal was joking.

“Go on – laugh it up! I'm not sorry.” Kathryn said gesturing with her free hand. We smiled and giggled for a few minutes then Amal asked me a question that took me by surprise.

“Nika, why do you dye your hair, it's blond isn't it?” Kathryn went still and I wondered how much to tell, even though Amal had shared a great deal of her story I wasn't willing to be so open.

“I was trying a different look, different persona, I'm letting it grow out now, though I've thought about chopping it all off.” Both of them made near identical 'oh-no!' expressions, which made me grin.

“I thought maybe you were hiding from Kathryn's crazy husband.”

“I dyed it before we met actually.” I said, thinking about my own reasons for doing so. Kathryn stood up and squeezed Amal's hand again.

“We have a dinner reservation we should get to.” She said. This was news to me.

“Of course,” Amal smiled again, “thanks again for everything, and it was lovely chatting.”

“It was.” I agreed. Kathryn took my hand as we walked along the corridor. “you ok?” I asked as we waited for the elevator even though we were only on the second floor. She nodded and I didn't press any further. It was chilly outside so we hurried to the car. “Well, I can see now why you like her.” I said as I locked my seatbelt. Kathryn glanced at me and must have been able to see I was curious about our abrupt departure.

“She is quite charming, but I didn't want you to feel on the spot darling.” She explained.

“It was fine – she wasn't making me uncomfortable.” I saw the strained look on Kathryn's face, clearly she was uncomfortable. Her jaw was set as she drove.

“I just think that we should be careful, love, it's hard to know who you can trust, and now there are legal complications.”

“What is it you're concerned about, Kathryn?”

“The press. I spent half the day working on what to say to them.”

“Ah. How are you going to handle that?”

“Interview with Jillian from the Herald – keep it strictly business.”

“What if she doesn't stick to the script?” I asked.

“There's not a script, well not for her – there is a list of acceptable questions – but it is the Finance Herald, so it wouldn't look good if they acted like a gossip rag.” Kathryn explained.

“Well that's good.” I said looking out the window at the people and buildings we passed.

“So, why did you dye your hair, I've been wondering.” I knew she was going to ask.

“Shelley, at least I assumed it was her...I'd been getting harassing phone calls, on my cell.”

“How on Earth did she get your cell number?”

“Indeed, how did she? I moved to the other end of the country this time and still she found me! Somehow she always gets what she needs – probably slept with someone.”

“Yes, but a cell phone? Aren't they pretty hard to track?”

“I honestly don't know, Kathryn.”

“Wait, did you tell the police this?”

“No, I smashed up the phone and got rid of it.”

“After you met me...” Kathryn's voice was quiet, “darling, why didn't you tell me?”

“For the same reason you didn't want to tell me about Mark.”

“You thought it would scare me away,” Kathryn sighed and shook her head “before we even got started.”

“Mm-Hmm.” I said hoping she wasn't angry with me.

“Darling, I really think you should tell Detective Jeffries, or Gil - he'll need to know that if Shelley's case goes to trial.” I knew Kathryn was right, but I didn't particularly want to talk about it.

“Kathryn, have you noticed we always have these talks in the car?”

“I guess we do, why do you think that is, my love?” She smirked at me as she slowed for a red.

“Well, fewer distractions I suppose, we can't have sex in the car.” I stated.

“Can't we?” She teased.

“Well, not while it's moving.” I said.

“Really?” Kathryn said in a tone that said she could prove otherwise.

“You're telling me you've had sex in a moving car?”

“Mmmm, while I was driving.”

“How could you shift?”

“Same as always.”

“Oh...”

“She just reached over, slid my skirt up...”

“and I can guess the rest.” I said and Kathryn grinned looking quite pleased with herself.

“luckily we had to stop for a train, so I could let myself...”

“Orgasm and not crash the car!” I said taunting her.

“Exactly,” She glanced at me, smiled wickedly and then turned her eyes back to the road “I quite like a nice Sunday drive in the country,” she said innocently. I chuckled and shook my head.



We bought take out salads and sandwiches two blocks from our new home. There was still a lot of unpacking to do. While we were picnicking in the middle of the living room floor Kathryn's phone rang. She stared at me while she spoke, it was Gil. Kathryn spoke very little. She said a quiet thanks and clicked her phone off.

“Well? Any news?” I asked, not sure I wanted to know.

“Gil’s been in touch with the Crown prosecutor, Shelley has been found fit to stand trial.”

“Good.” I said, wondering why Kathryn looked so concerned.

“Hon, we’ll both have to testify.” She reached out to squeeze my shoulder.

“Fine, whatever it takes!” I could feel my face flush with anger, “She needs to pay.” I was shocked at my own vehemence. Kathryn squeezed my shoulder again and rubbed my arm a little giving me a look that said 'I'm here to help – just let me.'

“You've every right to be angry, darling.” She said quietly. I nodded, fighting off the tears.

“I know, I know that now, but when we were together it was like ... like she was the only one who was allowed to get angry, like my feelings didn't even matter. Didn't even exist! Like I should be so happy to be with her that I shouldn't want anything besides making her happy?” I was boiling, almost shaking with the desire to tear her limb from limb. And here was Kathryn holding me together with her steady support and quiet strength. Kathryn who shows me that I matter everyday. No anger, no demands, just calm support and reassurance – and the safety to be myself. I looked down at her hands and marveled at them, so delicate and slender yet so powerful. I wanted to weep for my good fortune. The heat of my anger dissipated and I gathered Kathryn's hands in my own to kiss them. She looked at me surprised and concerned at the unshed tears in my eyes. “I am so very lucky to have you in my life, Kathryn.” She leaned in as if to kiss me but instead pressed her cheek to mine and spoke in that lovely low emotional tone of hers.

“I'm the lucky one.” she said. Then she dipped her head and kissed the side of my throat.

“We're both pretty lucky.” I said smiling, feeling the tears streak down my face.

“Damned straight!” her voice was husky, it sent a tingle across my neck. She leaned back to look into my eyes, we held each other's gaze for a few intense moments before she kissed me. It was a long kiss laden with emotions. When it ended Kathryn stroked my face and blessed me with one of her crooked grins. “I hate to say it darling.” She glanced around the room.

“We've got a lot of unpacking to do.” I said. We stood up and I kissed her again quickly, and when we looked at each other something deeper than the words 'I love you' connected us. It was commitment: to love, respect, passion, tenderness, and honesty. I knew in that moment that I had found what I had always been looking for, the life and love I'd always thought impossible. Everything that I had been taught I didn't deserve. I let out the breath I had been holding. We bent down and picked up our dishes and walked together to the sink.



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



I arrived early to the office having dropped Nika off at work. I felt happy, yet somehow more than happy, like a deep contentment surrounded me. I knew I was grinning as I stepped off the elevator. Sheila had clearly just arrived too and smiled as she hung her coat in the closet.

“Morning, Sheila.” I said.

“Good Morning, Kathryn. You're here early again, should I be concerned?” she joked.

“Everything is just fine.” I smiled and cocked an eyebrow at her, “though there is something I'd like to talk with you about when you have a moment.” She looked a little alarmed but nodded.

“Right now is fine.”

“Sure just give me a few minutes to settle in.”



Sheila joined me in my office five minutes later. She sat nervously sipping her first coffee as I stood up to close the door. I returned to my chair and took a sip of my own coffee.

“How long have we worked together, Sheila?” I asked.

“Eight years and a bit.” she said, eyes bright, posture stiff.

“Relax Sheila, please, nothing's wrong I just want your opinion on some things.” I said and immediately she relaxed. Was I really so intimidating? I wondered, I did try to be approachable.

She sipped her coffee and waited for me to continue. “I know there have been rumours flying with everything that's been happening lately. I want you to know that I greatly value your contributions, you make my work life run so smoothly.” I paused, thinking on my wonderful non-work life.

“There are some major changes coming, Sheila, I'll be stepping down as CEO, George is going to take over while we decide on the best candidate to replace me.” She looked quite surprised but managed to control it. “You see, I'm thinking of leaving Ridgecorp to pursue other interests.” Sheila opened her mouth to say something but stopped. “I'll still be on the board but I'll be much less involved in the day to day . . . I was wondering if you'd be at all interested in moving with me – I mean, continuing to work for me in my new venture . . . it would be a much smaller organization and you'd likely have a lot more responsibility but your pay would not be effected and if all goes well you'd be making substantially more.” I waited for her response; she blinked and chewed her lip for a split second before composing herself.

“I, I'm surprised and really very flattered, I do enjoy working for you so, I suppose my answer is yes.” She smiled. “Of course I'd like more details as to what would be involved, but it would have to be pretty bizarre for me to decline. I trust you.” she stated. I was relieved.

“I trust you too, Sheila, that's why I want you with me. Frankly it's all pretty nebulous right now but I have decided that it's time for a change, time for me to move on.”

“You've done so much for this company. It's been your life!” I was surprised at the emotion in her voice.

“Yes, just to be clear Sheila, this needs to stay between us for now.”

“Of course!” she seemed a little flustered, “I just want to know, why me? I mean I don't have any specialised training or...” I raised my hand and she stopped talking.

“You clearly underestimate yourself Sheila, I think you'll find you have precisely the skill set necessary for the job. Most importantly being able to put up with me.” I smiled, Sheila smiled too.

“Ok.” she said, and then she leaned closer and whispered “You're really not so hard to work for.”

“Sheila, you'll ruin my reputation!” I teased, “What is it now? The Ice Queen?”

“That made me so mad!” Sheila said and I could see by her face that she meant it.

I stood up and walked around my desk. She stood up too. I shook her hand and then reached up to squeeze her shoulder. She gave me a soft look.

“I can take it, but thanks for the support. I'll keep you up to date just as soon as I've connected the dots. It will take a few months at least.”

“Alright.” she turned to go.

“Oh, I'd like you to sit in on a meeting this afternoon, with Jillian.”

“From the Herald?” she asked and I nodded yes. “Ok.” I could tell she was curious because this was not standard procedure, but she didn't ask.

“Thanks.” I said.

“Of course.” Sheila pulled open the door and walked out. I left it ajar and returned to my desk, more determined than ever to make the most of my time today.



At 20 minutes after one Sheila knocked on my open door to announce that Jillian had arrived.

“I'll be there in five; I'm just finishing up some emails.” Sheila nodded and strode back towards the boardroom. On impulse I wrote a quick email to Nika.



>> Meeting with the Herald right away – wish me luck darling – I love you,

Looking forward to more unpacking xo K <<



I smirked at myself as I hit send knowing full well that Nika would know I wasn't really talking about unpacking. I picked up my note pad and made my way to the boardroom. I could hear Sheila talking as I approached the door, I stopped short of the corner to listen.

“Jillian, that was years ago.” Sheila said.

“You’re point?” Jillian responded sounding annoyed.

“Maybe you should get over it – that's all. We broke up ages ago – what happened between the two of you has nothing to do with me.”

“So there's no truth at all to the rumours about you and -”

“No – can we drop it – she'll be here any moment.”

“Fine.” the reporter said. I waited for a long moment and then turned the corner and walked in.

“I hope I didn't keep you waiting.” I said knowing that it was five minutes before the meeting was scheduled to begin. Jillian had an angry look and was staring at Sheila when I came in, she immediately smiled and stood to shake my hand.

“Ms. Ridgeway, lovely to see you again, and my editor sends special thanks for granting us the exclusive.” she had a firm grip and seemed genuine, but my mind was filled with a lot of unanswered questions because of my eavesdropping.

“My pleasure,” I returned her smile and accepted a fresh cup of coffee from Sheila, “Thanks.”

I sat down at the head of the table and Sheila sat in the first chair to my right carefully sipping her own coffee. Jillian stared across the table surprised that Sheila was staying.

“Generally I take my own notes – but since we're short on time I thought it best if Sheila took care of that for me. Is that a problem?” I asked. Sheila raised her eyebrows slightly but otherwise her face was blank. Jillian straightened up in her chair and shook her head.

“No- no, of course not, Ms. Ridgeway.” she glance back and forth a few times before holding my gaze. I smiled my 'charming' smile and reached my hand towards her but stopped short of actually touching her.

“Call me Kathryn, shall we get started.” Jillian smiled in response and swiveled her chair to directly face me. Sheila held onto her blank, though slightly haughty, look and I wondered what it was between them.

Jillian spent the next 20 minutes asking me every question she could about the financial state of Ridgecorp, opinions of the board of directors, how we would reassure regular stock-holders. She seemed totally surprised when I told her I would be stepping down as CEO, but recovered quickly.

“Was that your decision?” She asked. I nodded yes. “So you were under no pressure from the board?”

“No, not at all.” I said, she quickly licked her lips and her posture changed slightly.

“So there's no truth to the rumours surrounding your husband?” She was excited.

“Which rumours are those?” I asked not letting my anger show.

“That he's brought Ridgecorp to the brink of bankruptcy! That's why you're divorcing him and why he's been bought out?” I could have burst out laughing but instead I coughed and tried not to grin too much.

“No, indeed, after what happened to his mother's firm do you honestly think that Ridgecorp, that I would be foolish enough to let that happen again?”

“You didn't trust him?”

“Would you?” I asked her, “When it took him only five years to destroy fifty years of hard work.” Mark's failures were old news so she was clearly fishing for something more.

“Mmmm, how do you respond to him calling you the 'Ice Queen' claiming that you're the reason your marriage never worked?” I glanced at Sheila; she looked ready to smack Jillian.

“I have no official comment on my estranged husband’s immature behaviour.”

Jillian looked slightly annoyed.

“Alright, anything off the record?” She asked smiling, and then she made a production out of turning off her digital recorder. I pursed my lips and decided to partially set the record straight.

“Mark and I started off as friends, and perhaps it could have become more but our marriage, from the start, was more of a business arrangement. I wish we could remain friends but that seems unlikely at this point.” I said smiling a soft resigned sort of smile. Sheila looked shocked and Jillian looked unconvinced, but she made the most of our remaining minutes together.

“There has also been speculation regarding the assault that took place at your-”

“That is completely unrelated to Ridgecorp, and my marriage.”

“So the breakdown of your marriage has nothing to do with the target of the assault Miss Nika Raven?”

“No, it does not; she is a private citizen, with no connection to Ridgecorp whatsoever.”

“A private citizen with a very famous ex-girlfriend.” the reporter said. I had really had enough.

“I'm here to talk about business not the problems of individuals I happen to be friends with.”

“Some speculate that she is more than a friend.”

“Is that a question? Again it is completely unrelated to Ridgecorp, and frankly I'm surprised that the Herald with its respected reputation would indulge in such tabloid rumour chasing.”

“So the assault and the shooting are unrelated?”

“Totally, and let me be clear, Jillian – any mention of Ms. Raven in your publication will result in legal action against you, and your employer. Do we understand each other?”

“Completely.” she glanced at Sheila likely realizing that she was there to act as a witness.

“Excellent. If you have no more questions?” I stood up to shake her hand again. She fumbled with her bag and shook my hand as she grabbed her recorder. “Please see yourself out, Sheila and I have things to attend to.” I walked with her the few steps to the door and watched her leave.

Once the door to reception closed behind her I turned back to Sheila and closed the door.

“Well, now we know what story she was really after.” I said pouring myself another coffee.

“Mmmm.” was all Sheila had to say.

“Please tell me if it's none of my business but you two seemed to know each other.”

Sheila sighed and tilted her head a little to the side. She stared at the table for a moment before talking.

“A long long time ago, I dated someone she had recently broken up with, it didn't last long and the two of them ended up getting back together. Honestly it's ancient history as far as I'm concerned.”

“Are they still together?”

“I don't think so; really she should have put it behind her already.”

“Some people never can.” I said and Sheila nodded, “so do you think I scared her off of mentioning Nika?” I asked.

“Probably, but your response also made it clear that protecting her is very important so she might not give up on it entirely. She knows a lot of people Kathryn, if she started digging.”

“Mmmm, thanks for the warning. I take it you've figured out . . .”

“That we . . . bat for the same team?” She smiled at me.

“Uh – I suppose.”

“Yes, I suspected for a while, and then-”

“Then, Nika.” I said and she nodded.

“You've seemed happier the passed couple of months.”

“Oh I am.” I grinned at her, enjoying thoughts of how Nika has improved my life.

“What is it you needed to talk to me about?” Sheila grinned.

“It's a secret mission.” I said patting her on the shoulder and leading her towards the door.