M/f, f/f, M/ff , MF ==================================================== Castle In The Sand By Deana Johns. Copyright 1997 All rights reserved. Limited permission to post is granted providing this header remains intact. May not be posted to any pay sites. May be offered as part of a collection, also provided this header remains intact. Permission to archive is also granted. --------------------------------------------------------- This is an adult story, if you shouldn't be reading it, don't. I trust this is sufficient warning, given that I am posting this to a predominantly adult area to begin with. My most sincere thanks go to Jean Walker for the outstanding -and massive- task of editing this story. If there is something wrong, then it is my fault as I did some of my own editing afterward, adding back in sections I had once removed to make it tamer in hopes of publishing it. As always, comments are desired, welcome, and helpful. I especially like to hear from women. Please reply to: deanajohns at softcom dot net --------------------------------------------------------- Castle In the Sand Chapter 44 Theresa strung up the twisted steel cables between the anchor points, adding turnbuckles where needed. John had pre-made the cables in sets, torching each end so it wouldn't fray. She strung the cross bars at the hips and shoulders, explaining how they eliminated four cables. Pointing out the first Cindy model. Sheila nodded. Her eyes drifting back to the John mannequin. "Pay attention, sweets. Cause these have to be tight. Otherwise it will make a saggy woman. And we don't want that, do we." Theresa chuckled. "Sorry. You'll never know how much that meant to me." Sheila said. "Oh... I think I do. As you were doing it, I was remembering the first time I lowered myself upon John, while he was asleep. "He was the first man I *wanted* to make love with. And he wouldn't do it, so I did. It wasn't very ethical of me, but I didn't know what ethics were then. I don't think I'm sorry for it. In a way this all started by my doing that. John might still be a hermit living in the desert if I hadn't. " Theresa said. "Well, I'm glad you did." Sheila said. "Come on, lets get you made." Theresa said, checking the chemicals and moving to the computer. She was about to start the process, when she turned to Sheila. "Uh... When we were playing with Cindy's toy, you did say that *my* side fit you better?" she asked. "Well... It felt closer. Damn near exact." Sheila replied, "Why?" "Well, I was just thinking... How about we plug my measurements into your body.... It might not be exact, but as you say, real close. Unless you want to wait?" Theresa asked. "That would be great. You know how to do that?" Sheila asked. "We'll lets see.... call in my image, like so. Pick view location below skin... Goodness, do I look like that inside? Anyway, take cursor and highlight area...... Hm... have to go point to point at the opening...... Okay....now copy. Back to your image... paste. Oops. not there.... but that might be fun....having one behind your navel.... lets see... grab paste and move.......... about there.. now fine move to match opening.......... like so?" Theresa asked. "Looks right to me... maybe tipped a bit back..." Sheila said. "Okay... yaw... how much? Want oriental heritage? No? Say when... Okay. Better? Now back to me... Backside. Same thing." Theresa completed the task. Sheila nodding in satisfaction. "Okey dokie... just a sec. Where did John put that... Ah." Theresa said, adding a little something to the wire frame. "Now tell the computer that that is there... where did John put that.... here? No... here! Okay, it will map around it... rather come at it from a different angle and map inside..... Gosh. I never used to talk like this." Theresa said. "I think that you and Cindy both have an excellent vocabulary.. you can be downright eloquent when you want to be." Sheila said. "Fucking-A rights we can... Okay ready?" Theresa chuckled. "Go fer it." Sheila said, chuckling.. "Gone." Theresa said, starting the process. This time the computer started at the anchor points. Centering it's bearings. It precisely located cross bars and the extra package. Then the spray arms came out. "This part stinks. Hit that switch over there, will ya. It will suck out most of it. It will take awhile, so lets go get some dinner." Theresa said. "In a minute... kiss me?" Sheila asked. "Anytime!" Theresa said, going for it. "Thanks." Sheila said. "Anytime!" Theresa repeated. Sheila recovered her clothes and they went off to dinner. Just as they walked in the kitchen the phone rang. "I'll take it." Cindy said. "Be gentle with him." Theresa asked. "Like mink wrapped round a mace." Cindy replied. "Hello" "Hi sweets, where were you last night?" John asked. "Last night? You called?" Cindy asked. "About eight your time." John said. "Oh... Sheila made us all hot buttered rums. They knocked us out pretty good. We had a pretty full day." Cindy said, fighting to keep her voice even. "Really? What did you do?" John asked. "Well.... First off, we talked to Sheila about you and her in San Francisco. I don't think she left anything out." Cindy said, clearly angry. "Uh....San Francisco?" John asked. "Don't feed me that Mr. Innocent crap. I said; I don't think she left anything out. She's a *very* honest lady." Cindy said. John sighed. "So now what?" "So now you've got at least two and maybe three *very* pissed off ladies to deal with. John, Why the hell didn't you just tell us what you wanted instead of this clandestine bullshit?" Cindy spat. "I... I didn't think you and Theresa would take to kindly to it." John said. "Maybe not, but you owed us the respect to tell us the truth." Cindy said. "The truth,.................. is that I thought she was perfect for your company, I didn't expect to like her so much myself. I though that if you and Theresa met her first... well... You'd like her too." John said. "I agree. She is perfect for the company and we do like her. That's *not* the fucking point. The point is that you wanted her. I don't blame you for that, she's adorable. What I don't like is being deceived." Cindy hissed. "I'm sorry about that.. I was wrong." John said. "Well it's getting to be a habit. And I for one don't like it a bit." Cindy said, forcing herself to calm down. "Habit?" John asked. "The fucking cameras!" Cindy reminded him. "I explained about them." John said. "After the fact, like you're doing now. John.... I love you dearly. But if you pull this kind of stunt again... I don't know. I don't want to leave you.. But if you force me to, I will." Cindy cried. "I don't want that either. I love you too. Please... I'm sorry about Sheila. I'll stay away from her. I just don't want to lose you." John said. "You won't have to do that. She'll be staying... after she goes back and ties up her affairs. I'm not going anywhere and neither is Theresa. I'm just god damned mad. Theresa's hurt. You can work out with Sheila how she feels about it. We'll see you Monday, don't call till then." Cindy said, breaking the connection. "Hell you only swung the mace around a bit, hardly hit him more than forty-three times." said Theresa. "Why did you tell him that about me?" Sheila asked. "I didn't lie. I didn't tell him you were pissed off at him. I just did the same damn thing to him. I skirted the truth. Let him sweat for awhile." Cindy said, smugly. "Remind me never to piss you off." Sheila chuckled. "Let's eat." Cindy said. John stared at the phone. It could have been much worse, he reasoned. He could have lost Cindy and Theresa too. A shiver ran though him. "Time to change your act, John." he thought. He sat back drinking a scotch water. The room was littered with packages. He had been out to a whole bunch of fashion houses. He thought that maybe the best way for the girls to get a feel for the fashion world, was for him to buy them each a new wardrobe. Including things they probably wouldn't wear for years. Evening dresses, business suits and such. That day had been a lot of fun. He reflected upon it. He'd entered one of the salons and a snooty blonde had looked up and snapped: "Yes, what do you want?" "I'd like to look at some of your fashions." John said. "I doubt you could afford them. We cater to the *upper* class." she said, turning back to her schedule. John looked at her a moment. It was obvious she was dismissing him. He opened his wallet and took out a platinum credit card. "Here, run this." John said. The blonde took it, looking at him in a slightly different light. "Wait here, I'll be back. Don't go anywhere while I check this." she commanded him. John bided his time. Seething under a calm exterior. The blonde came back all contrite: "Yes, Mr. Stevens, we'll deal with you. If you'll follow me I've arranged a showing." "Thank you, may I have my card please?" John asked. "Yes, of course, I was just going to hold it for your purchases... But if you'd rather?" she said, making no move to return it. "I would rather, yes." John said. She shrugged and handed the card back. Turning she led him into a showing room. "What may we show you?" she asked. "Evening wear, dresses. Pant suits. Business wear, high end." John said. "And perhaps some high end lingerie as well?" The blonde offered. John shrugged. "If you'll just sit here. The girls are getting dressed now" she said. John sat, the blonde left him alone. After a few minutes, lovely models who were too damn skinny began to parade by in various outfits. The blonde came back and described the outfits, naming price first. Occasionally John would say: "I like that." The blonde would scribble something on a pad. Eventually the lingerie came by. John was unimpressed. Thinking that Cindy in her body suit beat anything they had in the way of models or outfits. He did say: "That's nice." to one or two. Then the blonde turned to him. "Now, if you could supply us with measurements, then we can place your order." she said. "Order?" John asked. "The ones you liked. I presumed you'd be ordering them." The blonde said. "Is the manager in? I'd like to deal with him or her personally." John said. "Yes, of course, but our prices are *never* discounted." she said, snootily. "None the less." John said, waiting. "Very well, wait here." she said, leaving. After a few minutes, a very well dressed man came in, with the blonde following behind. "Yes, Mr. Stevens. I am Mr. Moore. How may I serve you?" he said. "Well... excuse me. Miss, what was the total on the outfits I expressed an *interest* in?" John asked. "The blonde glanced at her notes and jotted a few figures. "Sixteen thousand, seven hundred eighty three dollars plus alterations and taxes." She replied. "Thank you. Now... Mr. Moore. I wanted you to know exactly how I felt. I walked in here with the intention of buying. This woman wouldn't give me the time of day until I handed her my Platinum Credit card. I have been treated shoddily from the moment I walked in. I was told what to do. She did not introduce herself. I was offered no refreshment. I was left waiting alone. She made assumptions about what I would purchase. On the whole I find this establishment, as represented by this woman, totally offensive. Had I been treated with the *slightest bit* of respect, I would have purchased *every* outfit I saw. But now, I will make no purchase here at all. Good manners should not have a price limit placed upon them. Now, I suspect you wish to have a few words with this woman, so I will take my leave. Good day sir." John said. The blonde had turned white as a ghost. Mr. Moore nodded his head as John spoke, the anger welling up inside him. "I quite understand, Mr. Stevens. Should you choose to return in the future, I can guarantee you better treatment." Mr. Moore said, looking at the blonde, who was almost trembling. "Perhaps I will... but I can't help but wonder how many other customers, or potential customers have been treated in this manner. Good Day." John said. He turned and walked out. Later in the day John happened to be passing back by, his arms laden with packages from another salon. He glanced in an found a crying blonde cleaning out her desk. Mr. Moore standing behind her. He nodded at John. John smiled back. Later, John had suddenly figured out that the salons would deliver his purchases to his hotel for him. A good thing as he had lots of them. He was going to have to ship them separately. He cringed at the value of them. Shortly after he had walked in the second salon, he was given the white glove treatment, and at every subsequent salon. Either they were much different than the first, or Mr. Moore must have made a few phone calls, after he left. He strongly suspected the latter. He couldn't help but speculate that if the girls made it a policy that every customer be treated with the utmost respect, that they couldn't help but clean house on the fashion world. Once again he looked around the hotel room. Way too much to deal with at the airport. He lifted the phone and rang the desk. Asking for a bonded delivery service to pack them up and ship them separately. The clerk assured him that it would be taken care of if he would just supply a shipping address. John flipped open his laptop and read off the Helicopter services address. "Yes, sir. I will personally oversee it myself. They will be waiting for you when you return." the clerk assured him. "Thank you." John said, and hung up the phone. Now that was the way that service should be handled... He thought, but the hotel had already run his card. Rather than being impressed by the service he'd gotten since he'd come into his money, he was angry that he hadn't gotten that same service beforehand. What had happened to the world? He got up and put his coat on. He felt like walking. He headed down the street from his hotel, declining an offer to call him a cab. The bellman with his hand out. John continued to walk. A few blocks from his hotel he ended up in a district a little less haughty... and safe. Thinking his coat and mannerisms marked him as an outsider, he chose a bar. A small piano bar, not very full. Couples out for drinks before the show. Business men who weren't yet finished with business. A call girl awaiting her pager. John sat on the end of the bar. The bartender came over. "A single malt, rocks." John ordered. The bartender raised one eyebrow and made his drink. "Six bucks." he said, putting it in front of John. "Start me a tab?" John asked. "Plastic?" asked the bartender. "Never mind. Here." John said, handing him a twenty. "Sorry, house rules." the bartender said, making change. "Not your fault. I'm just a little touchy about it tonight. I seem to get great good service *after* people know I can afford it." John said. "I know what you mean." said the bartender, "It bugs me too." "What ever happened to the days of wash your windows and check under the hood for 35 cents a gallon." John asked. "Not a big enough profit margin, I guess." said the bartender. "Is that what it all boils down to? Profit margin?" John asked. The bartender shrugged and went to fill an order. There was a cute barmaid with an attitude and an older, more humble one who had to be nice to make her tips. John watched them work around the bar. The cute attitude won hands down over the older one. Why? The cute one acted like the world owed her her tips just for letting it watch her. Hardly a shrug over her tips. The older one gave superb service with a smile. Thanking her customers for the smallest tip. That sucks, thought John. "How does the tip system work here? Do you pool the tips and divide them, or does everybody just keep what they get?" John asked the bartender when he came back. "Everybody just keeps what they get." replied the bartender, wandering away again so he wouldn't have to talk to John. John finished he drink in one large swallow. He tipped the bartender two bucks. He caught the older barmaid on his way out and laid a hundred dollar bill on her tray. "I'm sorry sir. I can't cash that." she apologized. "No need, it's a tip." John said. "What for? I didn't even serve you." she said, flabbergasted. "For calling me sir. You deserve it." he said, walking away. Almost to the door, the cute one, who had witnessed the transaction caught John's arm: "What about me?" "You didn't serve me." John answered, pulling back his arm. "Neither did she." she said. "I was rewarding her, because she was giving excellent service to everyone she served. You, did absolutely nothing for me." John said. "Fuck You." the barmaid said. "I think that perhaps it was *you,* who got fucked." John said, walking out the door. The older barmaid pocketed the bill. It would make her rent for her. The cute one shot daggers at her with her eyes. John wandered aimlessly. He came across an area where a bunch of straggly looking kids milled about. The guys trying to hustle the girls. The girls reminded John very much of Theresa when he first met her. He was naturally inclined towards helping them. One separated herself from the flock and approached John. "Sir? Can you spare any change. I haven't eaten in a while." she asked. John looked at her a moment. The others seemed to drift away, thinking him to be a cop or something. "I'll tell you what. I'll give you a couple of bucks, or buy you dinner, a big one. Which would you prefer?" John asked. "I ain't in that kind of business, I just want to eat." the girl told him. "I wasn't looking for that kind of action. That diner on the corner, any good?" John asked. "There's a better one a block over." the girl said. "Your choice, your turf. Just don't get me rolled." John said. The girl looked at him suspiciously, but her hunger won out. "Okay.. the next one. But I'm really not out for anything else." the girl told him. "Neither am I." John said, "Lead on." She actually led him to a better lit area. The diner was clean, the food smelled good. John selected a booth and slid in one side. The girl slid into the other, still eyeing him suspiciously. John pulled a menu from the end holder and handed it to her. "Anything you want." he said, picking up a menu himself. "Anything?" she asked. "Anything... But I'd pick something you like rather than picking by price. If you want more, we can order more." John said, scanning the menu. "Why are you doing this?" the girl asked, scanning her own menu. "Well.... about a year ago I met a girl who was in much the same situation as yourself. I helped her out. Now she's a very dear friend of mine. All she really needed was a place to stay that was safe. I was able to provide it. She's turned into quite an outstanding person. Sometimes I think about what would have happened to her, had I not done that. So... I guess you could call this an insurance policy for my conscience. If I didn't do it, I would always wonder what you might end up doing, just because you were hungry." John said. "And what did she give you for helping her out?" the girl asked, still suspicious. "Her company. And eventually, many good meals. I hired her as my cook. But I guess what you're asking. Did I extract payment from her for what I gave her. No... "We did become lovers later, but it was not a condition of her presence. It was her choice." John said. "You expect me to believe that?" the girl asked. "No... I don't really *care* what you believe. I don't expect I'll see you ever again when we leave here. As I said before, I am not seeking that sort of company. I have enough troubles with women to last me a long while. I just don't like eating alone." John replied, choosing what he wanted. The waitress came up, eyeing the girl suspiciously and then John even more so. "What can I get for you?" she asked. "A club sandwich and black coffee for me and whatever she's having, one ticket, keep it open." John said. "And what will she be having?" the waitress asked. "Ask her, I'm sure she can speak for herself." John said, disliking the waitress a bit. "Yes, but can she pay for herself?" she asked. "As this is on *my* ticket, that is none of your business." John said, evenly. The waitress turned to the girl. The girl said: "A double cheese burger with fries, a cup of coffee, cream and sugar." The waitress wrote their orders and then walked away. "Thanks." the girl said. "No problem.. it wasn't her business." John replied. "I'm used to it. I guess I don't look too hot." the girl said. "There's a rest room over there. That should remedy part of the problem if you want." John said. "They don't let us use it." the girl said. "They don't have a choice. It's a public restaurant, we're paying customers. It's the *law*." John said. "They keep it locked." the girl said. John flagged the waitress. "Yes?" she said. "Could she have the key to the ladies room." he said. "We don't like to let the street kids use it." the waitress said. "*We are paying customers*. If you do not supply the key, and *right now, *I will personally make a special trip to the health department tomorrow and swear out a complaint against this establishment." John said, again evenly. The waitress went and got the key, delivering it to the table. Then she stormed off. "Thanks... she can be such a bitch. A... you won't leave me with the tab?" the girl asked. John took out a twenty and handed it to her. "No... if you'd do that, you won't. I'll be out in a bit." she said. "Take your time... Just don't leave a mess. Perhaps they'll be more open to you next time." John said. The girl smiled at him and headed for the rest room. A while later the waitress brought their order. "Hope she's worth it..." she said, snidely. "Lady.. not that it's any of your damn business, but *all* I'm doing, is helping the kid out. It could just as easily be you. As far as I can see, the only difference separating your life from hers, is circumstance. It for damn sure isn't good manners. For the most part, those kids out there didn't choose to be in the situation they're in. People seem to forget that." John said. The waitress seemed stunned. Another table ready to order saved her from further discussion. She moved off to take their order. The girl came out of the rest room, looking much better. Her face clean, her hair combed, if still dirty. Her hands clean. Her clothes a little straighter. She sat down and eyed the feast. "Dig in." John said, selecting a sandwich wedge himself. Out of the corner of his eye, John noted that despite her hunger, the girl *was* well mannered. She sliced her hamburger in half and took reasonably small bites. He held back any conversation to give her a chance to eat. After she had consumed a large portion of her meal, John asked: "So how do you happen to be out on the street." "It seemed a better place than listening to my parents argue all the time." she said. "Where you from?" John asked. "Pittsburgh." she replied. "A long way from home... so what did you expect to find here?" he asked. "Oh... I don't know. Work, I guess. But nobody will even talk to me. You need an address to get a job. You need a job to get an address. I can sort of understand. Nobody wants to hire someone dirty. But I've had no place to clean up and nothing to change in to." she said. "Any family besides your folks." John asked. "None to speak of. My mom's sister, but her husbands out of work too. They don't need me around." she replied. "So what are you going to do?" John asked. "I don't know. This isn't working though. Even if I got a job here, the rent's so damn high I couldn't afford it." she replied. "What can you do... I'm sorry, my name is John Stevens... and yours?" John asked. "Sally..... Sally Thompson." she said. "Glad to meet you, Sally." John said, offering her his hand. "Glad to meet you, John." Sally said, wiping her fingers and shaking his hand. "So, Sally, what skills do you have?" John asked. "Well, I know a little computer. I can cook. I can sew. I can empty trash cans and can run a broom." Sally said. "Let's concentrate on the computer part for now... Word processing? Spread sheets?" John asked. "Yeah, I can do both. I used to help my father out in his shop. He sells books. He didn't have a clue. I set the whole thing up for him to keep inventory and do his accounting." Sally said, polishing off her fries. "That's a good start." John said, finishing a second wedge. He didn't want anymore. The waitress appeared as if by magic. "Can I get you two some dessert?" she asked, pleasantly. Sally said: "Oh gee I don't know.. what's good?" "We have some nice fresh Pecan Pie." the waitress said. "Oh.. it's been so long since I had that..." Sally said. "How about two orders. Hot with a scoop of ice cream?" John asked Sally. She nodded smiling. The waitress smiled and added the order to the ticket. "Are you through? Can I wrap that for you?" she asked John. "Please. Thank you." John replied." "Be right back." she said, scooping his plate and heading off to fill the order. "What happened to her?" Sally asked, looking after her curiously. "Don't know, maybe she got a big tip... Would you be interested if I could help you find a job. One good enough to pay rent here." John asked. Sally looked at him a moment and then said: "Sure...But how could you help?" "A couple of ways maybe...Is a post office box a good enough address to get a job?" John asked. "I guess so.. Yeah." Sally said. "Ah... how old are you.. the truth?" John asked. "Seventeen, last month." Sally replied. "Drivers license?" he asked. "Yeah." "And you want to work?" he asked. "Yes, of course." she replied. "Okay... lets list your assets and define your problem: You have computer training in small business management, a drivers license and are willing to work. You have no address, no means of getting one, no family to turn to. No decent clothes to wear to work and no place to clean up. I would also assume no means of getting to work, should you get a job, except walking of course." John summarized. "That pretty well covers it." Sally said. The waitress brought their pie and a white paper sack with the remaining two wedges wrapped in plastic in it. She left and came back with a coffee pot, refilling their cups. "Anything else I can get for you folks?" she asked. John looked questioning at Sally. She shook her head. "No.. I think that will do. Thank you." John replied. "No.. Thank you sir.... I'm sorry about that remark I made. People do forget. I *was* in the same spot not too long ago." she said. "No problem." John said. "And I'm sorry about the fuss over the key." she said to Sally. "Oh...That's Okay." Sally said, handing it back to her. "No.. it's not. *You* can stop by anytime you need to use it." she offered. "Thank you...that's nice." Sally said. "You folks have a good evening." she said, putting the check down and heading off. Sally looked after her, bewildered at the change. "What remark?" she asked. "Oh, nothing. It's not important." John replied. Sally shrugged, then asked: "So how could you help me find a job?" "Well, first... how about we find you a room -*of your own-* for the night. You can take a good long hot bath and sleep in a comfortable bed. Tomorrow, we'll get you some better clothes for interviewing in and at least a post office box for an address. I have some meetings with some fashion businesses tomorrow, I'll ask around to see what's available for you. If we can find you a job, then I'll help you find a place to live. Nothing fancy... but safe and fairly clean. I'll pay first months rent. Call it a loan. You can pay me back when you get caught up. Okay?" Sally just looked at him, her mouth slightly ajar. Tears starting to make their appearance. "You'd do that for me? Why?" Sally asked. "I already gave you my reasons. Call it insurance..... "Sally, you're just a victim of the system. You didn't create that system, but you're expected to live by it. You can't get a bank loan unless you really don't need one. You can't get a job without a place to live, you can't get a place to live without a job. You have to live in the city because a person can't live off the land anymore. The government owns all the land between cities. The cities don't want the homeless. Nobody trusts anybody unless they don't have to. Personally I'm sick of that system. This is just my way of trying to change it. "Even if you didn't pay me back, it wouldn't begin to hurt me financially. But if you do, and I think you will, then I have the satisfaction that I am right and the system is wrong. That's enough for me. Okay?" John asked. "Okay... and I will pay you back.. I promise." Sally said, fighting back the tears. "Okay.. lets go find you a room." John said. He looked at the check and doubled it. There were no vacancies between the restaurant and John's hotel. He had wanted to avoid getting her a room there, for Sally's peace of mind. At his hotel he asked the clerk for a single room. The clerk looked at Sally then remarked: "I'm sorry, we have no vacancies at the moment." John looked at the row of keys behind the clerk. "IN THAT CASE, she can have mine, I'll find another hotel for the night. I'll be checking out of here in the morning so I have to find another one anyway for the rest of the week." John said. "Wait! I remember, I just had a cancellation not too long ago... Yes, I have a single available for the night." the clerk said, playing with his computer. "If you'll just register." The clerk handed her a card. "Just charge it to my address." John said. "Okay... uh luggage?" he asked. John put the white paper sack on the counter. "Very well sir...On the same floor as you?" he asked. "Not necessary." John said, coldly. "As you wish... but the open room is adjoining yours anyway. You can just leave the doors shut." the clerk offered. "I'd rather that you gave that room to someone else if you can. Perhaps someone scheduled to check in tomorrow morning." John said. "Yes... I can change that. Okay, she's in 307 just down the hall. Okay?" the clerk asked. "That will be fine." John replied. The clerk passed him the ticket and John signed it. "See that her room service is added to my bill as well, with a reasonable gratuity." John added. "Yes sir." the clerk said. A bell boy showed and John handed him the sack and Sally's key. He passed Sally a buck and nodded towards the bell boy. She nodded. "I'll see you in the morning, make it about nine thirty. Order breakfast when you wake up. I'm gonna get a drink in the bar and then go to sleep." John said. "Thanks John.... for everything." Sally said. John took her hand an shook it. "My pleasure. See you in the morning... Sweet dreams." Sally hugged him suddenly and then followed the bell boy. John watched them until the elevator closed, then turned to the clerk at the counter. "Now, If I owned this hotel. Right now you'd be out on your ass. If I had a word with the manager you might be anyway. But I'm going to overlook it this time, because you've probably seen many similar situations where it was the intention to book the adjoining room. "First. You made the assumption of character based upon appearance. I've got eyes. You've got a whole bunch of open rooms, this ain't exactly tourist season in New York. "Second. Should it have been that it was my intention to bed that poor kid, it would have been none of your damn business. She's over the age of consent for this state. "But that never was my intention. That kid there has been looking for work ever since she got into town, but nobody will hire her because she's got no place to clean up. Tomorrow I intend to find her a job, I wanted her to have a bath and a warm place to sleep so that she could look presentable for a job interview. "Third. I want you to find me someone who understands women's sizes. In other words, A woman. Have her call the kid's room and ask her her sizes. She will then go to my room and look over the stuff I bought earlier. She will collect an outfit suitable for the kid to wear tomorrow, have her take one of your hotels robes for the kid for tonight. She will retain the robe when she leaves. Put it on my bill. "Fourth. If you should *ever* see that kid again, you will treat her with respect or I will damn sure have that chat with your manager." John finished. He didn't give the clerk time to argue. If he'd tried, John would have made certain it was the last time. He headed to the hotel bar and ordered a scotch rocks. The clerk looked after him, more than a little shaken. He actually *was* the night manager, but the guy was right. He picked up the phone and called one of the staff, a woman. Sally followed the porter into her room. Her jaw dropped. It was fabulous. Color TV, desk, table, sofa, double bed, huge bath with Jacuzzi. The porter set her sack on the table and turned, waiting. Sally handed him the dollar... her only one. He left, chuckling. She started the bath running and thought about the events of the past few hours. The phone brought her out of her reverie. She answered it, expecting John. "Yes, I'm with the hotel. I've been asked to obtain your sizes for clothing. So I can pick you out something suitable for the morning." a woman's voice said. Sally was a little surprised, but she told the woman her sizes, down to her shoes. "I may have lost a little weight since I last measured though." Sally admitted. "Of course.. I'll be up in a few minutes with a robe for you to wear after your bath. Then I stop by in the morning, after you have had breakfast, with an outfit for you, okay?" the woman said. "Okay." was all Sally could think of to reply. A few minutes later a knock at the door. A well dressed woman handed her a large terry robe. She sized her up, having her turn and lift her arms. "Thank you, enjoy your bath. See you in the morning." the woman said. Sally thanked her and then closed the door. She laid out the luxurious robe and then started to peel her clothes from her body. They stank. Later Sally would remember the next hour and a half as the most luxurious time of her life. Laying back in the bath, the Jacuzzi buffeted her cold, under-pampered body clean. There was an excellent selection of body wash, shampoo and creme rinse. Sally used them all. A ladies razor solved the stubble on her legs and under her arms. Then a splash of tingling after shower lotion. Deodorant and a good scrub with the new toothbrush from the complimentary supplies and Sally felt like a million bucks. Finding a comb, brush and blow drier, she set about making herself look it. Fighting the tangles out of her deep Auburn hair. Somewhere along the transition she became a woman. She pulled on the luxurious robe, enjoying the soft warmth around her body. Catching her reflection in the mirror she felt a flush of sexual excitement. A beautiful woman looked back at her. She let the robe fall open and examined her firm body. A little thin, but in excellent shape. Right down to the neatly trimmed patch of Auburn hair upon her pubic mound. Finally she wrapped the robe back around herself and left the bath. Spotting a small fridge, she found it stocked with designer waters and juices. She selected one to go with the remnants of John's sandwich. She flipped on the TV and surfed around the dial, settling on a sappy movie. The movie served as a catalyst for her emotions. She sat back on the bed munching her sandwich as her eyes filled with tears... Sometime later she pulled back the covers, brushing away some crumbs. She dropped the robe on the edge of the bed and crawled nude between the soft clean sheets. She killed the lights and the TV with switches by the bed. Sally's fingers began to explore her now soft, pampered body. Her imagination touched upon John. What it was like to be the girl he had spoken of? Making love with him? After a time a muffled cry left the pillow as she buried her head and lifted her hips. She stretched luxuriously enjoying the gentle touch of the soft sheets on her nude body. A warm mist enveloping her as her body dumped endorphins into her brain. A moment or two later she passed into a pleasant sleep, the best in months. Sheila lay back in the bubbling hot tub, Theresa on her lap. Her hands softly exploring her body as she shared sips of wine with her. Sometimes in soft kisses. Cindy lay back, not far away, lost in her own thoughts. "I wonder what our lovable savant is up to now." Theresa said. "Probably snuggled to some trollop he met on the street." Cindy mused. "Oh... I don't think so. And if he was.... I'm not sure I'd mind." Theresa said. Cindy looked at her friend, snuggled to the voluptuous blonde. "You've certainly changed since you didn't want to share John with me when I first arrived." Cindy said. "I have changed. Funny, the more I love him the more comfortable I feel giving him his freedom." Theresa said. "If John's night with me is any indicator, you girls are damn secure in granting him his freedom." Sheila said. "I know... he just makes me mad sometimes." Cindy said, "But I love him more every day." "I think we all do that." Theresa said. Sheila freed a hand and lifted her wine glass: "To John." she said. The girls lifted theirs and they all drank, lost in their own thoughts of him. Later they all caressed each other to sleep. Sometime in the night, Cindy slipped out of bed. While the two warm bodies she left were more than pleasant to snuggle to, it wasn't what she wanted. She took a blanket and pillow with her to the lab. She struggled to lower the end mannequin and lay it on the wide sofa. She pulled off it's shorts and killed the lights. Covering herself and the mannequin with the blanket, she snuggled up to it. Feeling the perpetual erection, she lay atop it and guided it into herself. Sometime later she fell asleep in that position. She slept much better. John had three scotches before he headed to his room. He used the bath and then checked his schedule for the next mornings appointments. One was a small company a larger fashion house had referred him to when he had inquired into new production techniques. Maybe there. Thought John in reference to Sally's predicament. He was determined to help her. Even if he had to buy a company to hire her. That's silly, he thought. He could help hundreds of them for the price of a company..... Or... he could make it a company policy to help them...... He undressed and crawled into bed. Missing the feel of his lovelies beside him. He killed the lights and lay back. His mind wandering at random. He wondered why he thought of Sally as a kid and Theresa and Cindy as women, when they were all basically the same age. He thought about what Sally might look like with clean hair, wearing a body suit like the first one he had made Cindy. Without noticing he got an erection. His mind flitted around between Theresa, Cindy, Sheila and Sally. Apparently Sheila would be joining them. This time he noticed his erection. Without touching it he enjoyed it's throbbing. Not bad for an old man, he mused. Sometime later he slipped into sleep, his mind dancing between lovely women. Chapter 45 Cindy stirred, feeling the erection inside her, she smiled. But something seemed wrong.... feeling a moments alarm she realized the figure beneath her wasn't breathing. Then what was under her came back to her. She sighed heavily and rolled off to the side. The room was lit by a very dim glow from the tracking mirror system. It must be very early morning, About a half-hour or more before sunrise Cindy reasoned. She turned on the lights and went to relieve her bladder. She returned, now dressed, and muscled the mannequin back onto it's hook. Pulling the shorts onto it once more. Then folded the blanket and put it away with the pillow. Finding her way into the kitchen she started breakfast. John never left her mind the whole time. Sally woke feeling wonderful like a scene from the Shirley Temple movie "Little Princess" where she awakes from a life of poverty into a heated room in a warm bed. Like it was all a dream. She was in a luxurious hotel room. A comfortable bed, firm mattress with soft clean sheets. She herself was clean. Her mind pondered over how this could be. The previous morning had been nowhere near as pleasant. Waking in a cardboard box in an alley. Looking for any privacy to empty her bladder. She had dropped her pants behind a dumpster, finding another body watching her from another box. Shrugging she had completed her task. Now as she slipped out of bed and found the clean, private opulence of the rooms bathroom, she remembered John. While she still didn't understand his motivations, she no longer distrusted him. He'd made not the slightest move towards her the previous evening. She realized with a start that she would have been much more than receptive if he had. But the fact that he hadn't, made him even more attractive to her, if somewhat of an enigma. She'd heard the first opening lines of his tirade at the hotel clerk the previous evening. The sound coming through the elevator doors just before it started up. She connected that with the changed behavior of the waitress from the diner while she had been cleaning up. The man was *defending her honor*! The sweetheart. She finished up on the toilette and moved to the sink, washing her hands and then brushing her teeth. She wondered how she could get John to remain in her life. More than a little surprised, that she wanted him to. "God, he's over twice your age. Close to three times it." she thought to herself. Another part of her mind asked: "So what? He's cute. He's kind and generous. He defended your honor... which is more than you've done at times." She tried to shrug off her thoughts as she found a disposable hair cap and donned it. She adjusted the water and stepped into the shower. She luxuriated in the hot steamy water for a bit before she soaped herself and washed her privates. Thinking of what a luxury it was even to have toilet paper, let alone the luxury of a shower afterwards. The touch of her fingers between her legs coincided with John's return to her thoughts. The touch became more insistent. Probing her most sensitive parts repeatedly. Her face flushed and her breathing became hurried. Her other hand roamed freely over her breasts and nipples. Sometime later she fought to muffle her cry as her body convulsed. Leaning against the wall of the shower for support as she caught her breath once more. She wanted John, in a big way. She rinsed her body and then shut off the water, reaching a towel and daubing the drops of water from her body. She stripped off the shower cap and tossed her hair. Combing it out and then into some sort of order. It's Auburn luster seemed to come to life, subtly matching the glow of her flushed cheeks. Exiting the bathroom she donned the luxurious terry robe. The phone rang and she answered it. "Yes, this is the desk. Mr. Stevens left a wake up call for you just before he retired. It's now eight o-clock." "Thank you... How do I get room service?" Sally asked. "I'll connect you." the voice said. A moment later room service came on the line. She was told there was a menu in the drawer beside the bed. Sally looked it over while they waited and ordered a large breakfast with lots of coffee. Cringing at the prices listed. But somehow she knew John wouldn't mind. A knock on the door a short time later delivered her meal. The steward didn't linger for a gratuity. A good thing as Sally had nothing to give him. She dug in. Her body fairly tingling in response to the delicious food. Sally was well into her meal when a soft knock came on the door. She opened it to find the woman from the previous evening laden down with several boxes and sacks. Sally admitted her and helped her set them down. "Good morning... I hope you slept well.........?" the woman said, a question lingering. "Sally, Yes. Like a baby. Thank you........?" Sally responded, in kind. "Marie. I've found several things I think will fit you... God, I wish I had access to the clothes Mr. Stevens purchased. There must be..... thirty thousand dollars worth of clothing in his room." "Thirty thousand dollars worth?!" Sally gasped. "At least. Uh... why don't I lay these out for you while you finish your breakfast." "Thank you." Sally said, sitting back at the table. It took her a while to finish her breakfast, because she kept jumping up each time Marie laid out a new outfit. They were gorgeous! Sally had never seen the likes of them. She flipped over an emerald green evening dress that matched her eyes. "I didn't notice your hair color last night. That suits you quite well." Marie said. "When it's dirty it sort of turns ugly brown." Sally said. "Of course.... I think this outfit would be better suited for a job interview though." Marie said, diplomatically. "I think you're right. I wish I had some makeup though." Sally said. "I'll be glad to let you use mine. Why don't you dress and I'll just run get it." Marie offered. "That would be great..... Thanks, Marie." Sally said. "You're quite welcome." Marie said, squeezing her hand and then leaving the room. Sally sorted through the undergarments. Each incredibly lovely. She selected a matching bra and panties. Lacy and elegant. She was amazed how well they fit. She pulled on the silk blouse and the lower part of the elegant tan pant suit. A pair of knee high silk stockings and a practical but lovely pair of pump shoes completed the lower half of her wardrobe. A soft knock on the door and Marie was back with her makeup. "That fits you perfectly. Oh it's so lovely." Marie said, admiringly. "Thank you... it feels like a million bucks." Sally said. "I'd think it was closer to a thousand, but I know what you mean." Marie said. "This is worth a thousand dollars?" Sally asked, aghast. "Oh, at least. I think just a hint of eye shadow and some mascara." Marie said. She advised Sally on just how much to wear, selecting the right shade for her. She finished off with a subtle smudge proof lip gloss. She helped Sally on with the jacket and then dug into a sack for a small box. A simple set of gold earrings completed her outfit. She looked at herself in the mirror. Tears in the corners of her eyes. Marie caught her: "You look lovely. Hey, none of that. You'll run your mascara." she said, though it was waterproof. Sally hugged her and thanked her for all her help. "You're very welcome. Knock em dead, kid." Marie said. "Thank you..... I feel like I could." Sally said. "I have no doubt of it. Lovely tall, shapely red heads - in thousand dollar outfits- always get noticed." Marie said. She selected a few items from her makeup case and left them with Sally. Then hugged her a moment before she left. Sally put the makeup in a small, lovely clutch purse, which she found contained four twenties, a ten and two five's. A hundred dollars! More than she'd seen in months. Sally just stood before the mirror...admiring herself in the gorgeous outfit. Thinking that there was just one person she wanted to notice how she looked. The one who had made it all possible. The ringing of the phone pulled her away from the mirror. It was John. "Good morning. Sleep well?" he asked. "Like a little princess." Sally replied. "Did you get the clothes? Do they fit okay?" John asked. "Oh god, they're lovely, John. Thank You." Sally said, feeling her eyes water. "Great. Did you have breakfast?" he asked. "Yes. Though it cost you a bunch." Sally said. "That's okay. I can afford it. Listen, if you're ready. Could you meet me in the lobby in ten minutes?" John asked. "I'm ready now." Sally said. "Ten minutes will be fine, I'm not quite ready myself.." John said. "Okay, see you in ten minutes.... and Thank you, John... for everything." "No problem kid. See you in ten minutes." he said, breaking the connection. "*Kid* huh?..." Sally mused to herself... "Just wait till you see *this* kid!" She picked up the elegant coat Marie had brought with a white scarf. She slipped the purse into a coat pocket and draped it over her arm as she walked to the elevator. The doors opened to the lobby and heads swung in her direction as she exited. Every male in sight started salivating as she made her way to some seats in the lobby, blushing from all the attention she was getting. The night clerk was just leaving the hotel and nearly walked into a pillar in his shock. Sally chuckled to herself. John left the elevator carrying his top coat. He was somewhat casually dressed for business. Wearing a sweater with a knit tie rather than the traditional three piece suit. Sally stood and turned to him and he stopped in his tracks. Before him was one of the loveliest young women he had ever seen. She was looking straight at him. It took him a moment to realize who it was. "Oh fuck!" he thought to himself. "I hadn't planned on this!" He moved the arm holding his coat in front of him to disguise his reaction. Moving forward again he approached her. "My, you certainly clean up well. You're gorgeous! I didn't even notice your hair color last night." John stammered. She beamed at him and gave him a big hug. He became blatantly aware of her firm body. The blood rushing to his head. "Shall we go?" he asked. "Yes... Where are we going?" she asked. "I think if you just make the rounds with me to my appointments, then a job will turn up for you." John said, helping her on with her coat. "Whatever you want is fine by me." Sally said, returning the favor. She couldn't help but notice his reaction to her. She beamed over it as he quickly buttoned his coat to cover it. He took her arm and heads turned as they exited the hotel. The doorman flagged them a cab. This time John tipped him well. In the cab Sally leaned over and kissed John on the cheek. He blushed. "Thank you for the money.... and everything else, John." she said. "No problem. It will go fast enough. Just hang onto it while I'm here. Let me pay for everything. I'm going to tell the companies where we go that I hired you as an assistant for while I'm here. One of them should bite and offer you a position for after I'm gone." John said. "If you think so...." Sally said, doubtful. "I do... Just relax and do as I say. You'll do fine." he said. "If you say so... I'm just along for the ride.... and loving it." Sally said. "Just *seem* to pay attention to what is said in the meetings. If I ask you a question it will be a yes or no one. Just nod and say yes." he said. "Okay.." she said. Aware of his body beside her in the cab. She caught a whiff of his after shave and felt a wave of desire for him. He took her hand and squeezed it to reassure her. That it did, but it wasn't her only reaction to it. She kept hold of his till they reached their first destination. John rented a post office box for her before they stopped at their first appointment. At each appointment John introduced her as his assistant while he was here. It took several before one bit. At the small fashion house that John had thought of the previous evening. John was impressed with the organization, but they still floundered with paper tickets and an unorganized inventory. "You ought to hire Miss Thompson when I leave. She's a wizard with the computer. She could organize your whole inventory and accounting system for you." John said, nonchalantly. Sally was off with one of the secretaries, presumably viewing a production technique. "It just so happens that we've been looking for somebody like that. How much do you think she'd accept." the manager asked. "Oh... She's just getting her start here. She's been staying in a hotel and I think her funds are getting low. I think you could steal her for thirty thousand a year plus benefits. We were going out to try to find her an apartment this afternoon." John said. The manager looked out of his glassed office at the stunning well dressed redhead. His wife wouldn't be happy at all, but his business needed it. "That's a bit steeper than I had in mind..... but I just happen to have a nice apartment for rent. Perhaps we could work out a deal." he said. "I couldn't speak for her. You'd have to ask her. I don't think she's really hurting. Her fathers a large book distributor in Pittsburgh." John said. "How did you happen to come by her?" the manager asked. "Just lucky enough to stumble over her, really. She's just what I needed for an assistant while I was here." John skirted the question. "Well... You say she's a wizard with the computer?" the manager asked. "Oh yeah, Word processing, spread sheets the whole works. She organized her father's whole operation for him." John said. "Well.... I might be able to go as high as twenty-eight. And throw in the apartment as a bonus. That would work out to closer to forty thousand a year. But it wouldn't be so hard on the cash flow for the business. Would you talk to her for me?" the manager asked. "Be glad to. When could we see the apartment?" John asked. "How about this afternoon. I think I can get free about four o-clock." the manager said. "That would be fine. I'll talk to her about it over lunch. But I'm sure if she likes the apartment she'll be interested." John said. "Thanks that would be great. I really need to get organized here." the manager said. He wrote down the address for the apartment and said he'd meet John there. If he couldn't make it he'd call John on his cellular, which John had supplied the number for. John thanked him for the tour and information. He collected Sally and left. Over lunch at a nice restaurant he informed her she had a job for twenty-eight thousand a year plus bennies, plus rent. Sally launched herself around the table for him. He hugged her and then pushed her back into her seat. Embarrassed by the looks of envy from the other patrons around the restaurant. She was shaking and about to cry. "Listen... just play it cool. Look at the apartment with a critical eye. Frown a bit here and there. Don't go around looking like Alice in Wonderland. You're a computer wizard. Remember that. You're a business professional, just getting started, but not willing to shortchange yourself. After you've looked at the apartment, he'll ask if I've talked to you. Tell him that you will accept the terms I've mentioned. Twenty-eight thousand plus bennies and rent. That you have some things to wrap up but think you can start Tuesday." John told her. "What if he asks how we met?" Sally asked. "That's a tough one..... tell me about last night. Did any of the kids around you say anything to you about me?" John asked. Sally chuckled and blushed a bit. "Come on, it could be important." John insisted. "Yeah, one of the girls said 'Here comes a live one, if you like old men' " Sally said, embarrassed. John dismissed his pang of pain. "Perfect. Just tell him that a friend of yours recommended me... as an *old* friend." John said. Sally chuckled. "Oh... you're not so old." she said. Admiration in her eyes. "Old enough. Anyway, you'll do fine. Just play it by ear. Don't mention anything you don't have to." John said. "But the Job! I don't know if I can do it!" Sally said, worried. "Piece of cake. You remember how you did it with your fathers book store. Just do the same thing for them." John said. "But I *knew* his book store. I'd worked there off and on. I knew what needed to be done. How he did things." Sally protested. "So... ask. Find out how they do things here. Find out how they keep their inventory. Find out what customers they have and what suppliers they have. Then just organize the information. That's all they really need. Take your time. Do a good job. Show up for work a little early every day and stay a little late each night. He won't expect it to happen overnight. If he asks, show him what progress you've made. They'll love you for it." John said. "But what about when I get it organized. Won't he fire me." Sally asked. "No. He'll beg you to stay to run it. His business will become so dependent upon your work that he won't dare lose you. I'd be surprised if he didn't offer you a raise to stay." John said. "I don't know..." Sally said. "You'll do fine. If not, just give me a call. If you have any questions about anything, give me a call. If you get in a bind, or even if you just want to talk, give me a call." John said. "Where? I don't know where you live." Sally said. John took out a note pad and wrote his address and the silo's phone number. He added his e-mail address and his cellular number. He handed it to her. She glanced at it. "A post office box?" she asked. "Not much mail service out in the desert." John said. "You live out in the desert?" she asked. John chuckled and then told her about the silo. She listened in rapt attention as he described it in detail. "It sounds wonderful. I'd love to see it sometime." she said when he finished. "That wouldn't be a good idea right now. My lovelies aren't very happy with me at the moment. But maybe after you get this guy organized we can arrange a visit. I figure that should take you at least four to six months." John said. "*Lovelies?* You only mentioned one before." Sally said, a little dejected. "I live with two women. There might soon be three, if the other two don't kill me first." John said. "You live with two women? And you expect a third?" Sally asked, her hopes fairly dashed. John saw her face and took her hand. She trembled a bit at his touch. "There's some things I should explain to you... The women I live with... Well.. they're.... Bisexual.... I hope that doesn't offend you." John said. "Bisexual." Sally said, testing the word. Reflecting a moment to let it sink in. "No, it doesn't offend me. I've had gay friends. But I've never.... *been* with one." Sally said. "One offered?" John asked. "Yeah. I got scared and turned her down. We're still friends though... at least we were before I left." Sally said. "Well, I'm still not sure how I got into the middle of all this... but I'd be a fool not to appreciate what I have. I love those girls. They seem to love me. Even with all the bullshit I put them through at times. I can't imagine why they care for me." John admitted. "I can." Sally said, quietly. John looked at her a moment. Her eyes hung. Her hand quivering in his. He squeezed it and then turned to his coffee. The apartment was clean, and in a nice neighborhood. It didn't have much of a view, but was in a fairly secure building. "I keep a security guard in the lobby twenty-four hours a day." the manager bragged. Sally just nodded, trying to play it cool as John had instructed. She had to look hard to find things to frown at like he said. When the manager broached the question she seemed reluctant, but nodded her acceptance. Stating the terms John had told her. The manager accepted, beaming at his new employee. "Great. Here's the key. We'll sign the papers Tuesday." he said. "I'd appreciate if you'd let me see a copy of them, before I leave." John said. "Certainly, I can have them ready Monday morning." he said. "I just like to be certain someone I recommend gets treated fairly." John said. "Of course. No problem. Uh... You don't mind if I set up the apartment as a separate agreement. I can list her as house-sitting for a mythical absent tenant." asked the manager. "No... as long as you state the duration of occupancy as at least a year. With rental and services included in lieu of salary for the house-sitting service." John said. "That's agreeable." said the manager. "Assuming the contracts are in order, are the terms acceptable to you Sally?" John asked. "Yes, quite acceptable." she said, suppressing a smile. "Great. I'll see you Tuesday and John on Monday morning." he said, taking his leave. He'd barely left when Sally was hugging and kissing John. Bubbling like a seltzer. She finally pulled her head back, her firm body still against him. She looked up into John's face. He succumbed to her lovely green, teary eyes. He kissed her softly on the lips. She trembled as her lips parted and her tongue met his. The kiss lasted much longer than John felt comfortable with and much shorter than she wanted. "Come on. We've got some shopping to do. We've got to get you some furniture and clothes for work." John said, hoarsely. "Thank you.... any chance you'll help me break in the bed?" Sally asked, boldly. "A chance.... but I shouldn't. We'll see." John said, trying to ignore his erection. She softly touched the front of his trousers. Feeling his manhood through the cloth. "I hope it's a good chance. I really want to..... And not just for all you've done for me." She said. John reluctantly pulled her hand away. "Sally, you're a lovely woman. And believe me I want to... but I'm involved with at least two women I love very deeply. Even if we did it would have to be a one time thing. I couldn't begin to offer you any long term relationship now... or in the foreseeable future." John told her. "I find those conditions quite acceptable.... for now." Sally said, grinning. "Well, We'll see. Damn, I wish I could call Cindy. Maybe I'll try it on Saturday." he said. "Cindy?" Sally asked. "My other girlfriend. Theresa's the first. Sheila will be the third if it works out that way." John said. "Well, if they really don't mind sharing you with each other, maybe they won't mind you sharing my bed so much." Sally said. "Maybe. But I'd better ask. If they say yes.. Well, we'll have to see." John said. Sally pulled him into another deep kiss and let him know he was welcome to whatever worked out. They shopped arm in arm for her furniture. Salespeople suppressing their thoughts over the Spring / September relationship. Sally always picked out a more conservatively priced item than John would settle for. "You've got to play the role. Your image makes you what you are. If the manager sees you in a tastefully laid out apartment and you dress well, he'll be grateful he got you for the price. If you present yourself as being overly grateful and live too conservative a life style, he'll think he's paying you too much." John explained. "Whatever you say, but this is going to take a long time to pay back." Sally said. "I'm not worried. When you can." John said. "Starting with my first check." Sally said. "Make it your third. I want you to get a reserve built up." John said. "Whatever you say." Sally agreed. She sat on a huge four-posted bed, patting the mattress beside her. "Like to join me? They want the sell so bad I doubt they'd watch... I'd like this one, but how about that one over there?" she said, pointing out a narrow single bed with a yucky headboard. "Nope. This one it is. If I'm gonna bend the rules...I'm gonna do it in style. Now behave yourself. " John said, taking her hand, but pulling her off the bed instead of letting her pull him on it. "Yes, sir. *That* just increased my servitude by a year, but it might be worth it." Sally said. "I don't care if it takes ten...... Now about your lifestyle... I'd be discrete in your love affairs. Don't date anyone from the company. Bad policy. Too easy for it to affect your job. Not too many customers either. Preferably not for a long time. You can date outside the sphere of your business contacts before that though. I'm sure you won't have any problem attracting a wide variety to choose from. Be picky. Very picky. You're worth it. Those who realize it won't mind the wait..... and be careful. You've got a great future ahead of you if you don't mess it up by getting pregnant." John said. "Oh... I think I'm gonna concentrate on my job for a while... This has all happened so fast. I just want to set up a routine life and get used to it before I start complicating it. I'm a long ways from settling down..... besides... you're kind of a tough act to follow, you know." Sally grinned. "Now don't go celibate on me. You're a lovely young woman. You should enjoy your wild oats while you can. Just be discrete and careful about it." John said. "Okay.... but your welcome in my bed anytime you want. I really mean that." Sally said. "You may change your mind about that... I won't hold you to it." John said. "Do as you wish... but I won't change my mind. I want you. I'll accept you on any terms I can get." she said. "How about this dresser over here." John said, trying to change the subject. They got her furniture all picked out. They scheduled delivery for the next morning. John arranged for her room at the hotel for another night. They stopped by a department store and purchased her dishes, pots and pans, silverware and toilet articles for her apartment. She also picked up some panty hose for later. He had her wear the green evening dress. She looked stunning in it. He took her out to dinner at a four-star restaurant. She turned heads left and right when she walked in. Wives kicked their husbands under the table. Sally reveled in the attention she received, but she only had eyes for John. He declined her invitation to come in when he walked her to her room. She kissed him deeply before she would release him. He walked a bit uncomfortably to his own room. The next morning they went to her new apartment to await her furniture. Once delivered and set up John took her around to some of the fashion houses, picking out clothes for her. On a whim he took her into the business where he'd had the encounter with the snooty blonde. An attractive brunette greeted him. "Yes sir, How may I help you." She greeted. "Yes, we'd like to look at some of your business fashions... for her." John said, indicating Sally. "Certainly sir. If you'll just follow me. My name is Debbie. May I get you some refreshments while you wait?" Debbie asked. "Thank you. A cup of coffee would be nice, black for me." John said. "And you Miss?" Debbie asked. "Coffee would be fine. One creme and sugar please." "Certainly. Now if you'd like to have a seat. I'll send someone right in while I check on the outfits." she said. They were only alone for a moment before another woman served them their coffee. Smiling, she introduced herself and kept them company until Debbie returned. The outfits were indeed nice. Debbie made a note of each one that they expressed an interest in. Suggesting certain combinations that would match Sally's hair and eyes. She inquired if they would be interested in viewing some items of lingerie. John nodded. Sally blushed a bit. John selected an emerald green outfit and a few other racy things for Sally. Then Debbie took Sally off to be measured. The second woman returning to keep John company, refreshing his coffee for him. Sally returned with Debbie. "Now sir, would you like to see the selections you were interested in again. To make your choice easier?" she asked. "No, I don't think that will be necessary." John said. "Okay... have you decided. Would you like to purchase one in particular? Any you would like to see again to be sure?" Debbie asked. "No, I think we'll take them all." John said. "All? Very good sir.... Would you care to discuss the financial aspects in private?" she offered. John took out his platinum card and handed it to her. "No, just put it on this." he said. "Certainly sir. I'll be right back." she said. Again the second woman returned. A moment later Mr. Moore came out. "Mr. Stevens. How *very* nice to see you again. I trust the service was to your satisfaction?" he queried. "Yes, excellent, Mr. Moore. Thank you. This is Sally Thompson. You might be seeing more of her in the future." John said. "Pleased to meet you, Sally, You are always welcome here." Mr. Moore said, shaking her hand. "Mr. Stevens. I really can't thank you enough for your honesty the other day. I must say that our business has picked up considerably in just a few days. Would you allow me to grant you a discount on your purchases today as a small token of my gratitude." he concluded. "That's very nice of you, but it's really not necessary." John said. "Please, I insist. And I would also like to extend a discount to Miss Thompson on any purchases she may choose to make in the future." he offered. "Very well. Thank you, since you insist." John said. "My pleasure. Now if you'll excuse me, I'll just go make arrangements. Very nice to meet you Miss Thompson. Please feel free to come back anytime, even just to browse. And thank you again Mr. Stevens." Mr. Moore said, taking his leave. When Debbie returned with his bill, John was very surprised to note that Mr. Moore had reduced it by 50%, several thousands of dollars. He protested. "No, Mr. Moore was quite insistent. He also insisted that *all* Miss Thompson's future purchases be at just 5% over our costs." Debbie said, sincerely. "That is most generous of him. Please thank him for us." John said, signing his credit card slip. "Our pleasure sir. And thank *you* for your business. We have several of the outfits you selected in stock. The others should be ready in a few days. Would you like to take those available with you or should I have them delivered." Debbie asked. "Oh, please. Can we take them with us?" Sally asked. John nodded. "Certainly. I'll just see to their wrapping. I'll be right back." Debbie said. The other woman appeared. They declined any further refreshment. Debbie returned with an assistant, laden with boxes. "I'm sorry. But we only have the dresses and lingerie in stock. Miss Thompson has such nice long legs we'll have to make the pants special for her. If you'll just leave a number where she can be reached when they're completed." Debbie said. "She just moved into a new apartment. Her phone isn't connected yet. She'll have to give you a call next week." John said. "Certainly. I'm sure we can have them completed by Tuesday or Wednesday at the latest." Debbie said. "Take your time. Sally, why don't you call them about Thursday afternoon or Friday morning." John said. Sally smiled and nodded. Trying to take possession of more boxes than she could carry. "Let us get a cab for you. Then we'll help you carry them out." Debbie said. The second woman nodded and disappeared. A moment later she returned, nodding her head. They all carried some of the packages out and loaded them into the taxi. Debbie shaking each of their hands and inviting them to return anytime. Once on the way Sally turned to John. "What the hell did you do to get service like that?" she asked. "Oh... I just walked out on bad service from a previous employee. But I told Mr. Moore exactly why I was doing it." John said. Sally looked at him aghast. "You're something else, John." She said, snuggling to his side. With the help of the door guard and taxi driver they carted her packages up to her apartment in stages. The taxi driver moving them into the lobby. The guard watching them as John and Sally made several trips up to her apartment. John tipped both of them handsomely. When John could finally tear her away from her new fashions, he took her out and arranged for her telephone and signed her up for an Internet account. He also took her out to a computer store and purchased her a state of the art Laptop, along with a desktop system with a laser printer and flatbed scanner for her apartment. She could cart the laptop to work with her. Once at home, she could link her laptop to her desktop and transfer files. At the computer store he also arranged for Internet lesions for her. Lastly John purchased a years membership to a fashionable local health club for her. They headed back to the hotel and collected her few things from the room. Finally they returned to her apartment. John helped her set it up. Determining what items should go in which cupboard. Helping her hang her fashions in her closet. Then he helped her make up the enormous bed. Once made, she pushed him onto it, climbing atop him and kissing him deeply. He didn't resist her kisses, but rolled away when she started to unbutton her blouse. "Not yet. Please. I have to talk to the girls first." he said. She continued unbuttoning her blouse and then unfastened the front clasp on her bra, she revealed a lovely set of breasts with dark erect nipples. "I just want you to see what your missing. They're yours anytime your ready." she said, pulling his hand to them and holding it there. John kissed her deeply and then *very* reluctantly pulled his hand lose. "God damned ethics!" he said, rolling away from her, off the bed. "Yours, not mine." she chuckled, "But I appreciate that you have them." "Come on, put on that slinky black dress we bought today. Let's go get some dinner. We forgot groceries, we'll have to get you some in the morning." John said. "Okay... but sit there. I want you to know *exactly* what you're missing." she said. John sat at her vanity while she stripped herself nude. Carefully hanging her expensive clothing. She was gorgeous. Her skin a darker shade than most redheads. She explained that she had some Indian blood in her family. It gave her her darker complexion. The red hair and green eyes had come from her mothers side, which was Irish. She was grateful for her darker complexion as it had saved her most the freckles that most redheads have to deal with. Whatever her heritage, John's erection strained at his pants as his eyes traced her smooth lines. Landing upon her trim Auburn pubic patch. His mouth watered. Sally did nothing to help his composure as she slowly did a reverse strip tease before him. Drawing her fingers slowly over her breasts and between her legs, making certain he got a clear view between her legs. She pulled on the Emerald Green Lingerie. Once on, John wanted very much to rip it off. She added a matching garter belt and slowly pulled her nylons over her smooth shapely legs. Finally she topped the stunning package with the slinky black dress, turning to have John zip her up. His fingers trembled as he raised the zipper. She added a set of matching heels. Then brushed out her Auburn hair and adjusted her makeup to match the outfit. The result would have given a monk a hard-on. She modeled it for him. Turning slowly. The high heels pushing her perfect derrière up even more shapely. She was stunningly beautiful and elegantly packaged. When he stood she pulled him to her, grinding her pelvis into his erection as she kissed him deeply. She was almost up eye to eye with him from the heels. "Come on. Before I change my mind and rip that outfit back off you." John said. "Oh, maybe we'd better wait a while then." she chuckled, kissing him again. "No we better not. I'm hungry for food, too." he said, his fingers couldn't help but find her firm buttocks. He drew his fingers softly over the cheeks and then pulled himself away. "Spoilsport. Get me all hot and then leave me cold." she said, not unkindly. "Not by choice my darling." John said, helping her on with her coat, a new one to match some of her new outfits. He donned his own coat and they went off to dinner. Again at a four-star restaurant. This time the effect of her outfit and Auburn hair was universal upon the staff and other diners. John proud to have her on his arm. The meal was as good as the environment. They shared a candle lit feast, talking easily and enjoying each others company. Afterwards John saw her home to her new apartment. Saying goodnight at the door. She once again left no question that he was clearly not only welcome, but desired, to spend the night. He declined. It was one of the hardest things he ever did in his life. The guard in the lobby shook his head after him as he left. The way the girl had been hanging on John, the guard had expected not to see him till morning. It was clear from the bulge in John's pants that the invitation had been made. The guard couldn't imagine why anybody would turn it down. John stopped in the hotel bar for a couple of drinks to help him sleep. He needed them. Back at the silo, the girls day had been a fruitful one. They had designed and produced several outstanding outfits for Sheila. She modeled them for the other two. She allowed herself to be seduced by each of them at least once as a result of her outfits. Then Theresa cooked diner while Cindy and Sheila worked out in the gym and then had a swim to cool off. Sheila reclined in a floating chair. When Cindy swam up to her she welcomed her. Her head back and eyes closed as her body convulsed from the young brunettes talented tongue. She pulled Cindy up into her lap and kissed her deeply as she caressed her lithe body with her fingertips. "Hey you two. Dinner's ready. Fun and games afterwards." Theresa called from the deck. "Be right there." Cindy called and then turned to kiss Sheila once again. Over dinner, the girls chatted about Sheila's new outfits and ideas for others. Sheila steered them towards some more conservative outfits she could *actually wear* to the office, without getting arrested. They chatted more as they helped Theresa with the clean up, retiring to the Com room with a drink. They sat all on the triple sofa, snuggling and chatting. Eventually the conversation turned to John. "Theresa, did you mean it when you said you wouldn't mind if John saw another woman in New York?" Sheila asked. "Yes..... I don't *think* I'd be jealous. For one thing, I know John wouldn't do it unless he really wanted to. I think he'd actually call and ask us if he got the urge." she chuckled. "And what about you, Cindy. Would you mind." Sheila asked. "Well, that would depend. I wouldn't mind his finding pleasure in another woman, but I wouldn't want him to do anything that threatened our relationship here. If it was a one time thing.. or just an occasional affair, no. I wouldn't mind *too* much. What about you? How would you feel about it?" Cindy asked. "Oh, not for me to say. He's not mine." Sheila replied. "The hell you say. If I know our John, and I do, he's as much yours now as he is ours. I accepted that when I agreed for you to stay." Cindy said. "Me too." Theresa said. "Thank you. Both of you." Sheila said, kissing them each. "So the question remains then, how would you feel about it?" Cindy asked, tracing her fingers over Sheila's bare midriff. "Gosh... I don't know. Let me think....... No, not really. I'm already more than willing to just have a share of him. Like you said, Cindy, as long as it didn't affect our relationship here, then I wouldn't mind. I trust John wouldn't do anything stupid either. He'd be very selective about anybody he chose to bed." Sheila said. "So, we're in agreement on this... I wouldn't tell John though. I also wouldn't want it to become a regular habit, either. But if he met an attractive woman every now and then while he was out of town.... Then we wouldn't be opposed to his spending a night with her." Cindy said. "No, I wouldn't tell John that. But if he asked we might be talked into it." Theresa chuckled. "What if he wanted to bring one back here?" Sheila asked. "That, would be another thing entirely. I don't think I'd like that very much. That gets a little too close to our relationship." Cindy said. "But what about me?" Sheila asked. "You're a different case. First off, John let us meet you first. I didn't object to that, it was the sneaky way he went about it that bugged me. But I wouldn't want him to bring anybody else here to live with us. Between the three of us, were going to find it hard enough to manage his time between us. It will help considerably that we can share each others love too. I don't think a straight woman would fit into this relationship at all." Cindy said. "I think you're right about that. It would spread him too thin." Sheila said. "Well, you two will have him all to yourselves when I go off to school. He's already used to dealing with two.". Theresa chuckled. "Don't you ever get the idea your not welcome here." Cindy said, leaning over Sheila to kiss her friend. "I won't. And if I find a husband, I'd be more than happy to share our bed with either or both of you anytime. But you'll have to be careful. I plan on finding a fertile one." Theresa said. "I wonder what John would think of that?" Sheila chuckled. "I don't think he'd mind. John made it fairly clear he didn't expect either of us to be celibate when we went off to college." Cindy said. "Should prove interesting. I'm likely to end up with him all to myself for a few years while you two are in school. I assume you'll be going to college, Cindy?" Sheila asked. "I want to. I can't deny that I thought about that when I agreed to your staying. If you're keeping John happy, we have less to worry about him finding an unknown woman to snuggle with while I'm gone." Cindy chuckled. "Think I can keep him happy, all by my little lonesome self?" Sheila chuckled. "I don't doubt it a bit. The question may be can he keep *you* happy all by *his* lonesome self." Cindy chuckled. "I don't think that will be a problem. I'd be more than content with just him. You two are added bonuses to that contentedness.. I fear that this fashion thing may take much of all our time together. John's included. I know he says he doesn't want to be a part of it, but I doubt he could help himself being involved." Sheila said. "Probably not." Theresa said, "It's not in his nature." "Well, should we retire for the evening?" Cindy asked, feeling up under the edge of Sheila's tube top. "Yes, good idea...... You know, I'd really love to watch you two with that little toy of Cindy's" Sheila said, suggestively. "Oh, god. Only if you spell each of us off yourself." Cindy said, rolling her eyes. "I'll say.... I'm only up to a little while on that thing and I'd like to watch you two myself." admitted Theresa. "Okay... but can we keep it down to the devastate and demolish setting. I need some working brain cells when I go back to San Francisco." Sheila said. "We can do anything we want." Cindy said, lifting Sheila's tube top over her breasts. "Then I suggest we retire." Sheila said, lifting Cindy's own tube top and caressing her breasts. Theresa settled it by dragging the two of them by the hand with her towards the bedroom. John spent a fitful night. Alone. Tossing and turning. He missed the girls terribly in addition to his discomfort over Sally and his visions of Sheila joining his little harem at the silo. Several times he almost got up and headed towards Sally's apartment. The little Auburn patch of pubic hair haunting his thoughts. Finally he slipped away.. Sally's night wasn't much better. Despite her large comfortable bed and the security of her new apartment. She desired John with all her being. The thought of him sent shivers though her. Her hands roaming her body in search of relief. She forced her fingers away. Desiring that the first orgasm she experienced in the new bed to be induced by John. She finally slipped away dreaming of that moment. Chapter 46 Cindy stirred. She was bracketed unevenly between two lovely women. Their breathing, now, soft and regular. The last she had heard it, it had been ragged and gasping. While Sheila may not be a substitute for John, she certainly had her moments. Cindy kissed her softly just inside her hip bones, which were just before her face, and then slipped out from between them, kissing Theresa softly in the same place as she passed it. Once extracted, she looked back at the two lovelies. They each seemed to sense the gap between and rolled together. Sort of. Their heads at opposite ends of the bed. They ended with an arm around each others hips. Cindy smiled at them and then moved off to the bathroom and from there to the kitchen to make breakfast. Sometime later, Sheila stirred. Upon opening her eyes she found a trim blonde patch of pubic hair before her. On impulse she began kissing beside it, tracing the crease with her tongue. A moment later she heard a soft moan and then Theresa was doing the same thing to her. A most pleasant way to wake up, Sheila thought. John stirred. He reached out, but found his grasp empty. A deep longing filled his being. Realizing that there would be no release from it, he rolled out of bed to start his day. He called room service for coffee only, then headed for the bath. A short time later a knock on his door came in reply to his order. An hour later he was bathed and dressed. Heading out the door for Sally's apartment. Sally awoke feeling once more like the little princess. A distant pang of loneliness touched her, but mainly she was still quite overwhelmed by the changes in her life. A few days previous she had been living in the street, sleeping in cardboard boxes and begging for her meals. Then a wonderful man had come into her life and swept her off like Cinderella. Now she had a good job, a well furnished place of her own, an elegant wardrobe and money in her purse. She stretched like a cat between the soft sheets and then threw the covers aside. She donned her thick robe from the hotel and headed eagerly for the bathroom. She was meeting that man for breakfast. She was just finishing her makeup when her intercom buzzed. She told the guard to send him up. By the time John reached her door, Sally was a stunning picture of loveliness and composure. Which wasn't exactly what she felt. She smiled and kissed him softly before they headed off. This morning was grocery shopping. They presented a lovely couple as they strolled the isles of the local market. John insisted on completely stocking her cupboards. Selecting cases of canned goods, large sacks of sugar, flour, rice and pasta and an ample supply of coffee. He supplemented this with a case of canned mushrooms, pasta sauces, Mexican sauces, middle eastern food, oriental food, brownie mix, and one each of every spice. Then they descended upon the meat counter and frozen foods and literally stuffed her new large freezer. He selected a variety of fresh and prepared meats and cheeses, most of which would freeze well in the smaller freezer compartment of her refrigerator. Lastly he sparingly selected a variety of fresh vegetables, a sack of potatoes the largest item, but a good supply of onions and garlic. He supplemented these with sacks of dried vegetables and soup fixings. While the ecstatic store manager was ringing up the first two shopping carts, John took another and raided the house wares selecting cleaners, a mop, sponges, buckets, dish soap, dishwasher soap, brushes, light bulbs, extension cords, tapes and glues and wrapping papers, foils and plastics. He filled one last cart with toilet paper and paper towels. Although the days of delivered groceries was gone, the manager gladly made an exception. Gathering his staff together to cart a small pickup full of purchases back to Sally's apartment for them. John paid the bill without letting Sally see the total on the multi-yard tape. She put her foot down however when John tried to set her up an account with the manager. "No! I won't use it if you do!" she said. "Her money's no good here." John told the manager. "Then I shall have to shop elsewhere." Sally said. The manager discretely slipped away to let them *discuss* it. He realized that it didn't matter one way or the other. Weekly purchases for one person wouldn't make much difference on his books. And it would be a while before she needed anything at all. Maybe months. In the end, John relented. But not before he got her to agree to accept an additional two hundred dollars. They spent a large portion of the day just putting things away. In the end she had the best stocked kitchen she had ever seen. So of course they went out to dinner. Sally did however manage to get him to accept lunch at her place. They had an early dinner, as a sort of celebration at the small diner where John had purchased her first meal. The waitresses jaw dropped when they walked in. "So, I guess this means you wouldn't be interested in a job waiting tables." she chuckled to Sally. "Maybe. I have to see how much time I have free from the job I start on Tuesday. John got me.... well, an excellent job as a computer specialist." Sally enthused. "Great. You look gorgeous. I never realized you were a redhead." the waitress said. "My hair kind of turns a an ugly brown when it gets dirty." Sally told her. "Wish the hell I cleaned up that well.... So what can I get you folks?" she asked. "How about our same order from the first night." Sally said. "Let's see... a Club sandwich and a double cheeseburger with fries. Two coffee's, one creme and sugar and hot pecan pie with a scoop of ice cream for desert." she said, writing the ticket. "How the hell do you remember that?" Sally asked, amazed. "Well, lets just say that you folks sort of left an impression. You weren't like my average customers. You still aren't. A handsome, well to do *gentleman* and a stunningly beautiful, tall redhead." she chuckled. "Who was a street urchin just a few days ago, before she was rescued by the handsome gentleman." Sally added. "Some Cinderella story." the waitress said. "Remember the Shirley Temple movie *Little Princess*?" Sally asked. The waitress nodded. "The scene where she wakes up in the warm room in a soft bed, I feel like that every morning when I wake up." Sally said. The waitress smiled. "I'll just get your orders." she said, wiping her eyes. This time they did more talking as they ate and Sally didn't consume near as much food. Again cutting her burger, she only ate half of it. When the waitress came back to inquire about desert, they asked for the pie to go as well, but forgo the ice cream. She seemed a bit sad, but took their plates away to wrap their extra food. When John slipped out to the rest room the waitress came over to Sally. "Come see me when you get a chance. I want to hear all about it." she said. "I will, god, it's been like a dream. He's been a perfect gentleman. Too damn perfect in fact." Sally said, longingly. "I did you both a great injustice that first night. I'm sorry." the waitress replied. "Tell you what. I'll come back and tell you all about what's happened since, if you'll tell me what you to talked about while I was in the bathroom." Sally said. The waitress looked pained and dropped her eyes in shame. "Not much to that. I made a snide remark about his motives towards you and he put me in my place." the waitress said softly. Sally put her hand over the waitresses. "Well, I'll come back and we can talk about it. I need a good friend here." she said. The waitress smiled at the young redhead. "I could use one myself. Maybe I won't be so cynical." she said. Sally squeezed her hand and she left wiping her eyes again as John came back. She appeared a moment later with their doggie bag. "I put some ice creme in a large Styrofoam cup anyway. On the house." she said. "Thank you, that was nice." John said. "No, Thank *you*, sir." the waitress said, she took John's bill and brought him back his change, declining the massive tip he insisted upon. She pocketed a five and walked away when he argued. John was going to leave a large bill on the table, but Sally stopped him. "No, she'd be insulted by it. Trust me." she said. John shrugged and they left. Sally walked him back to his hotel, clinging to his arm. It was a cold and clear night. The stars sparkled above the narrow lanes between the tall buildings. John wanted to talk to the girls. Sally insisted she catch a cab home alone. Telling him to come right over on the slim chance they okayed it. She kissed him briefly outside the entrance, then jumped in a cab the doorman had hailed for her. John watched it pull away and then headed inside. Chapter 47 The girls had another full day. They mostly finished up Sheila's wardrobe. Then they started on accessory items like custom patterned stockings. Weaving little flowers and hearts randomly into a large fine net. For fun Cindy made her a body suit with her skin image printed on it. Sheila insisted on one of Theresa as well. Lastly, Cindy made her a surprise package while Sheila and Theresa were in the pool. A virtual duplicate of her toy from John, only built for one. On a whim she added surface casts of herself and Theresa threaded over the ends. She put the whole thing into a gift box. She was just thinking about dinner when the phone rang. "Hello." she said. "Please don't hang up, I *need* to talk to you." John said. It was the way he said "*need"* that softened her. "I'm listening." she said. "I've been a shithead." he said. "I'm still listening." she said, smirking. "I'm still a shithead." he said. "I'm still listening." she said, but softer. "Your not making this any easier.... Listen. I'm sorry. I should have had more faith in you and Theresa. I shouldn't have fallen for Sheila in the first place. I love you all more than I can say. I miss you all desperately... but...." John faded off. "But there's more.... Okay. What's happened?" Cindy asked. "God, this doesn't seem like the right time to bring this up, but I want to be honest with you. I don't ever want to hurt you again." John said. Cindy sat down, her eyes closed a bit. She sighed heavily. "What's her name?" she asked. John was silent for just long enough to confirm her fears. "I guess you'd better tell me about it. *All* about it." she said. John took a deep breath, then he told her about meeting Sally, and what he did for her, and what they had and hadn't done. Telling every detail down to their kiss when they'd parted just an hour earlier. Cindy had listened carefully. She actually found herself feeling very proud of her man. "And you found her a job which she starts Tuesday and she has her own apartment which she has a years free rent on, so she'll be staying there when you come back?" Cindy asked. "Yes." he replied. "Now let me get this straight. You're calling your pissed off *girlfriends* because you want to make love to a gorgeous young redhead who this very minute is waiting patiently for you, you're calling to get our permission to do this, but you haven't done it yet because of us. Is that correct?" she asked. "Well, I hadn't thought of it in those terms, but I guess that is essentially correct." John replied. A laugh built up from deep in Cindy's lungs. It broke through her lips and she laughed hard and long, doubled over holding her aching sides. John waited patiently for the end of his relationship. When Cindy could talk again she said: "John, you are one in a million! I forgive you totally and love you dearly. Please. Bed the girl with my total and sincere blessing. But don't you dare bring home so much as a microbe. Let alone a body. Okay?" John was speechless for a moment. Finally he replied: "I love you." "I love you too. Now stop wasting the poor girl's time. Get your ass moving. Just leave something for us girls here, cause were not going to cut you any slack when you get back." Cindy said, still chuckling. "God I love you. I'll see you Monday evening." he said. Cindy hung up the phone and busted out laughing again. The other two came in and between gasps Cindy told them the whole story. When she reached the punch line they all laughed long and hard for a long time. Tears rolling down their cheeks. "No more, I'll wet my pants." Theresa cried. That just set the other two off again. Theresa sprinting for the bathroom. She returned a bit later, wearing different pants. "Well, you've got that right, John is one in a million." Sheila mused. "You didn't really ask it just like that? Did you?" Theresa chuckled. Cindy nodded: "Word for word." she gasped. Then they were all off again. John sat staring at the phone. Cindy's reaction had caught him totally off guard. Never had it even occurred to him that the answer would be yes. He'd thought that Cindy would yell and scream at him and hang up. Then he would explain to Sally that it was out of the question. He would fly home and pay his penance, whatever the girls wanted it to be. He thought to himself that he would never, as long as he lived, understand women. He shook his head, but then jumped up and headed out the door. On the way to Sally's he purchased two dozen long stemmed red roses. Once at Sally's apartment house, he gave the flowers to the guard. A note inside. The guard delivered them to her apartment. Sally took the box of roses and opened it. Fearing the worst, That it was a conciliation prize. She opened the note and read it. Tears flowing from her eyes she buzzed down to the guard and told him to send John right up. She left her door ajar and then scurried into her bedroom. She already had on the outfit she wanted, just in case. She put perfume behind her ears, and then in several strategic spots. When John sheepishly entered, he found her laying upon her huge four posted bed, wearing her emerald green lingerie. A vision of loveliness. John pulled a bottle of champagne from behind him. "May I corrupt your morals?" John asked, holding the champagne bottle before her. "If you *don't,* I'm going to be very pissed off. If it turns out that you're just teasing me you'd better protect your privates. Cause I've got a whole drawer full of nice new sharp knives and I'll have you inside me one way or the other." she said, not untruthfully. John shivered at the thought, she rose up onto her knees and he moved to her. The champagne forgotten for a long time. Several hours later she lay with her head upon his shoulder, tracing little circles in his chest hair with her fingertips. "You really *are* going to be a tough act to follow, you know." she said softly. "You should have told me that it would be your first time." John said. "What? And have you back out? No way!" she chuckled. "But a woman's first time should be very special." John protested. "John, I don't think it could possibly have been any more special? God, my own apartment in New York City, huge four-posted bed, satin sheets? A tender, kind, loving, handsome, rich, gentleman? Roses, Champagne? A great job? God John, what could be more special?" "Someone your own age." he replied. "Oh poop. A boy my age would have ripped off my lingerie, fucked me hard and popped off in fifteen seconds. You gave me almost a dozen orgasms before you entered me, and at least a dozen more after that. And... we're not through yet... are we?" Sally asked, grinning. John sighed and caressed her back with one hand and her lovely breasts with the other. "No, just taking a break. Where's that champagne, we should have put it on ice." he said. "If you had stalled even a minute longer before you got into this bed I may have been tempted to use those knives anyway." she chuckled. He pulled her face up and kissed her gently. Just barely brushing her lips with his. After a moment he deepened the kiss. Her tongue meeting his as her body trembled. Later their sweat ran together and mingled as it soaked into the sheets. Sally's lovely Auburn hair damp and straggly. She glowed like her roses. At that moment feeling more beautiful than when dressed in her finest fashion. John finally breathing regular, sleeping like a baby beside her. Sally would remember this moment her entire life. Tears of joy flowed freely from her eyes. She kissed him softly on the forehead. He stirred and seeing her tears tried to softly kiss them away. She hugged him with all her might. "Think you could find a little snack for an old man somewhere around here?" he asked, sleepily. "Oh... I might have an old crust of bread I could toast... in my new toaster." she smiled at him. She kissed him softly, then sat up. He instinctively traced his fingers over her nude breasts. "You really are lovely." he said softly. "And you really are wonderful." She said, kissing him again. She pulled his shirt over her shoulders to keep the chill off. It was the closest thing, discarded against one of the corner posts. She buttoned just a few of the lower buttons to keep it about her. She felt his eyes upon her as she walked into the kitchen. A moment later he joined her, clad only in his trousers. He sat at her table while she put on some coffee. She dug into the refrigerator for omelet fixings. John felt a stirring in his trousers from the vision of loveliness bent before him. She turned and caught him looking, holding his eyes with her deep green ones. She felt like the sexiest woman on earth. The feeling stayed with her as she felt his eyes upon her while she chopped onions and peppers which she started sautéing ahead of the rest. Adding mushrooms and cheese along with sage, thyme and a teaspoon of salsa with the eggs. She covered the pan, set it on low and moved into his lap while it cooked. She kissed him softly. "Too bad the champagne got warm." she said, finally. "Here, let me up. I'll show you a special treat." John said. "Let me make it. Just tell me what to do." she offered. "No, if you bent into that fridge one more time we'd never get anything to eat." John chuckled. She sat back, on the table. The shirt just accentuating her assets. Her breasts just teasingly hidden behind the thin material. I really didn't hide anything. The dark circles of her erect nipples clearly visible. The ends protruding through the fabric like Hershey's Chocolate kisses. Between her legs the tip of her Auburn pubic patch peeked between the shirt tails. John did his best as he fumbled with the orange juice while trying to look two directions at once. He put some concentrate in the blender and then opened the Champagne with a muted *phfftt*, beneath a towel thrown over the top. "Why open it that way?" she asked. John explained while he set the blender running. She nodded and got up, checking on the omelet. She took a large spatula and gently folded it over. Added a table spoon of water to the pan and then recovered it. John got down some wine goblets as she dropped four slices of toast into her new toaster. John poured the concoction and handed a glass to her. Raising his in toast. "To the most beautiful woman in New York City." he said. "To the most desirable man I ever met." she counter- toasted. They sipped from their glasses. A surprised look and a smile spread on her lips as she took another sip right away. John chuckled and took another himself. Sally smacked her lips as she lifted the lid on the omelet, turning it with the wide spatula. The first side perfect. She recovered the pan and John joined her, helping to butter the four slices that popped out of the toaster. She got down a saucer and two large heavy china plates. Admiring her new dishes. John got out the silverware and napkins. Sally set the toast upon the saucer and then divided the omelet, two- thirds for John, one-third for her. Dishing it out onto the flower patterned china. She served him as he sat back admiring her body once more. The coffee finished dripping and she added a large mug for each of them. Joining him at the table. She watched his face as he tested the omelet. When he smiled at her she quivered a bit and beamed like a little girl, proud of her first mud-pie. She dove into her own. Surprised to find that it was really quite good. "Hm... A good cook to boot. You make it damn hard for a man to leave." John said. "I wished you didn't have to, or that I could go with you." Sally said. "No you don't. You're a lovely young woman. One of the loveliest I have ever met. The only reason I'm going back, is that the other loveliest ones are waiting for me. I love them dearly. But even one of them will be leaving me eventually. Maybe more. You've got a bright future to look forward to. That's not what you'd find in a hole in the desert. I'm just your first lover." John said. Sally dropped her eyes a moment. "Actually.... John, you're my first *man*. I wasn't completely honest with you when I told you about my gay friend. I didn't decline completely. I just got scared and declined after she had... *done* me." Sally said, hanging her head. "That so? Well, darling. I'm just honored beyond words to be your first man." John said. "You don't think badly of me?" Sally asked. "What on earth for? Dear heart, if you'll remember, I live with *two* bisexual women. Possibly three. Why would I think badly of you?" John asked, not understanding. "Not that part... If I saw her again I might be more receptive. I mean that you weren't my first ever. I wish you had been." she said. "Sally, I didn't think I was going to be your first. A woman as attractive as you are? That's not why I wanted to make love with you. As far as I'm concerned, I *am* your first. There's blood on your sheets in there to prove it. But even that doesn't make me your first. Your first time is more a state of mind than a physical condition. The first time is when you first give your heart away. You can still have that." John said. "Wrong again, oh wise one..... That would still make you my first. You see... I do love you." Sally said, softly. "Oh Christ. What have I done?" John moaned. "Please don't regret it! You don't understand. I *wanted* you to be my first. I'm *proud* that you are my first. You're what teenage girls would dream of, if they had a clue. You're what every adult woman I've ever known has been searching for, but never quite found. You're mine, in here, in my heart. You will always be my first. Nobody can ever take that away from me. If I never made love to another in my whole life I could go to the grave happy." Sally said. "Well, lets not push it. I'm proud that you wanted me..... So.. this being your first love. What would you like? I'll let you pick your memories ahead of time. Anything you want, I'll do my best to comply." John said. Sally looked at him. She softly touched his face. "In that case.. I want you to make love to me on this table. Then I want you to make love to me on the sofa. Then in every room in this apartment, including the closets. I want you on the bed, the floor, standing up, sitting down, in the shower and if you could figure a way, hanging from the ceilings. I want you to make love to me in every possible position and manner you know how or can make up. I want you till the last possible instant when you have to leave Monday. I want it to be genuinely painful for me to *walk* into work on Tuesday. But I'll be glowing like those roses. And I'll know I've been loved by the best." Sally said. "Damn woman, better keep the coffee going and 911 on hold. You might be shipping me back in a box." John chuckled. "If so, then I'll weep over your grave. But if you go that way I intend you should go happy." Sally said, unbuttoning the only two buttons fastened. She climbed up on the table and pushed the plates aside. One fell off and John reached for it. "You bother with that now and I'll bust it over your head! Now kiss me!" she said. John complied. A full day later he was trying to remember her words, counting off the locations and positions. He looked up at the ceiling and shook his head. He looked over at the closet and grabbing Sally by the foot dragged her laughing into it. Later they soaked together in the tub. "Well, you've filled one of the requirements." she said, snuggling to him. "What's that?" he asked, caressing a breast. "I'm certainly going to be walking funny Tuesday." she chuckled. "Sorry?" he asked. "Not for an instant. Now I think I mentioned something about the bathtub...." she said, kissing him. When she let him breath again he said: "Actually it was the shower." "Oh... that too. But let's use the bed this time." she said, climbing out and handing him a towel. "I thought you were sore?" he said. "Just in one spot. I've got others you haven't touched yet... or at least entered." she grinned. "You sure? That can be very painful if not done right." he said. "Then we'd better just do it right, hadn't we." she smirked. "Any more coffee?" he asked. "Maybe afterwards. Besides, it's bad for your heart." she said. "And this isn't?" he chuckled. "Nope, best exercise in the world." she said, drying him off. She dropped to her knees and sucked his manhood into her mouth. She liked doing it. Having just learned how to do it the second hour of their lovemaking. Now she seemed like a pro as she sought to bottom her lips against his testicles. To his surprise he responded to her warm mouth. He'd lost count of how many times he'd done it. Once he was hard, she stood and guided him to the bedroom, holding onto his manhood as a handle. She climbed up on the bed and put her head down and her buttocks up on the air. He stalled looking around. "What are you waiting for?" she asked. "We don't have any lubricant." he said. "Then I suggest we try that extra virgin olive oil you insisted I have. Somehow it seems appropriate." she giggled. "I guess that will work... be back in a minute." he said. He headed into the kitchen. He found a plastic quarter cup measuring cup and poured some of the oil into it. Then he placed it into the microwave for a few seconds. "Hey, you eating out there? You've got a hot woman in here waiting for you." she called from the bedroom. "Not as hot as she's going to be." he called back. The oil was hot to the touch, but not overly so. He carried it back into the bedroom and had her place a towel under her. Then he dribbled the hot oil between her lovely cheeks. She groaned in delight. John dipped his finger into the oil and slid it between her ass cheeks. Finding her tender orifice, he tickled it. Circling with his fingertip. Working more oil inwards as he played with the virgin opening. She began to move her hips in rhythm with his playing. John dipped his penis into the hot oil, wincing a bit. Then he positioned himself against her and dribbled more oil over the top of himself and around the end. He set it aside and slowly pushed forward. He guided her hips with his hand as she attempted to push back too quickly. He continued to push inwards until his hips seated against her cheeks. Then he lay still. Caressing her sides and back. Letting her body get used to the concept. He made certain that his towel was beside him and then grasping her whole body rolled them over so she was atop him. Sally's body quivered. She had never known anything quite like what she felt. At first her body had rejected the whole idea. Trying to force him out again. Then it slowly relaxed. After a time the hot poker inside her became the most incredible thing she had ever felt. John moved his hips slightly, just barely beginning to move inside her. Coincidentally his oiled fingers found her clitoris and rubbed it softly while his other hand found and softly pinched her large nipples. When she became comfortable with his movement, John had her sit up. Putting her knees beside his hips. She began to move astride him slowly. Building speed as her passion grew into a consuming fire. He stopped her and had her turn around. She swiveled atop him, never letting him out of her tight backside. Now they were face to face. She kissed John like she had never kissed another before. His manhood hard and hot inside her. Consuming her last vestige of inhibition. She began to stroke her hips again, lost in pure abandon to lust. Her psyche pleased that her man had had her in every imaginable way. She felt every nerve in her body screaming that she was now a woman. She began to bounce upon his hips like he was a bucking bronco. Then liquid fire exploded inside her as John groaned in orgasm. The screaming nerve ends all ganged up on her at once as an animalistic cry escaped her lips. Her body convulsed harder than it ever had before. The liquid fire seemed to climb inside her body until it exploded in her mind like a sky rocket. She fell forward atop him, unconscious. John held her trembling body against him. Feeling the random quivers and contractions that ravaged her lithe body. He rolled her gently to the side and then used the towels to tenderly clean her up. Her sphincter contracting involuntarily at the slightest touch of the towel. He used the other towel to wipe himself. Then snuggled beside her and held her in his arms. Kissing her tenderly on the cheek. He lay his head down and slipped into a blissful sleep beside her. Many hours later he suddenly felt a burning set of lips upon his member. He sat up suddenly. Sally chuckled and asked: "Coffee?" Pointing to the mug on the night stand. She took another sip to warm her mouth and again descended upon his manhood. John didn't need coffee to wake up with what she was doing to him. Despite more loving that he'd ever done before, even when he was a young man, he responded to her hot mouth. Once he was hard, she moved atop him, facing him and impaled herself upon him. She lay still atop him, just reveling in his presence within her. She kissed him deeply and then lay her head upon his shoulder. "Thank you for making me a woman." she whispered softly. "You were a woman before." John said. "Maybe, but I didn't feel like it. Now every nerve in my body screams it to me." she replied. He held her close to him. Slowly moving his hips. He pushed in until he felt himself seat against her cervix, then a bit more. Then he slowly withdrew almost all the way and then just as slowly pushed up into until he once again seated against her cervix. He continued this slow movement on every subsequent stroke. Her breath coming harder in her chest. She lifted her head and looked into his eyes. Feeling every blessed fraction of an inch in every blessed stroke. The man she loved looked back into her eyes. His fingers softly traced her body. Finding and softly tweaking her swollen nipples. A bit raw from all the attention they had received. No more raw than her swollen red pussy lips which even now screamed for more. "I'll never have enough of you." she gasped, as her body began convulsing atop him. She kept her eyes open. Even when she felt his warm seed gush up inside her. He fought to do the same. Her body convulsing a last time atop him she bent to kiss him deeply. "I love you." she said. "I love you too." he said. Despite her previous state, she convulsed again atop him. "No, I will never have enough of you. We could make love every minute of every day for the rest of our lives and I still wouldn't have enough of you." she said solemnly. "So I guess I'm just wasting my time here, huh?" he chuckled. "Don't please. Not even as a joke. I don't want to ever think that you regretted a single minute of this weekend." she said, tears in her eyes. He hugged her to him. "Just the minutes it took me too long to get here." he said. She shivered atop him and he caressed her softly for a long time. He was still inside her and somehow he found the moment one of the most erotic of his life. He began to grow again. She lifted her head in joyful surprise. This time they moved together, eyes locked. Grinning at each other. Their hips moving in perfect rhythm as their breath left their lungs in complete unison. They lay together caressing each other. Again they slept. Sometime later he called out: "Feed me, or I'll not kiss another lip!" She chuckled and sashayed her happy ass into the kitchen. He crawled after her. Only half in theatrics as he slowly climbed up into a chair. "Meat for the hungry warrior?" she asked. "Uh!" he grunted. "Medium rare?" she asked. "Uh!" he replied. The girls had an uneventful Sunday... almost. If you don't count making love about seven different times between the various combinations. Cindy talked Sheila into delaying her return a few days longer. Thinking that it would be a great surprise to John just having her there. She didn't count on the condition he would be arriving in. The guard looked over the sign-in sheet as he came onto duty. He flipped back a few pages to be sure. "God damn! He's still up there!" he thought. Neither had left the apartment for a day and a half. A messenger brought his suitcase and briefcase from his hotel. The guard took pity on them and carried it up. A soft knock on the door brought a scurry of activity behind the door and then a *very* happy looking young redhead with straggly hair opened the door for him. The guard grinned as he set down the luggage and took his leave. The apartment had reeked of sex... mixed with the pleasant aroma of garlic on a steak. Guess it takes some guys longer to get started... but the old coot had made up for it in style. The guard thought. It made him proud to be a man. John was standing on the bed examining something on the canopy when Sally returned to the bedroom. His shriveled manhood dangling in front of him in invitation. At least Sally took it as an invitation. He chuckled, but continued his inspection. "What *are* you doing?" she asked between licks. "Just examining the structural integrity of your bed." he replied. "What for, did we break it?" she giggled, continuing her attack. "Not yet.... Just pondering your initial request... I think it will hold." he said, cryptically. "What *are* you talking about?" she asked, giving up her attack temporarily. John grinned at her ferociously. He ran out and brought a chair back with him. He stood on it and extended a hand to her. She didn't know what he had in mind until he lifted her up onto the canopy. She rolled onto it, scant inches from the ceiling as he struggled up behind her. She suddenly realized what he was doing and broke into laughter, which she suddenly squelched as he started to kiss her. They made love bumping into the ceiling and the bed creaking dangerously. Later he swung over the edge and lowered himself. Then reached up to help her as she let herself down. Kissing her rear cheeks as they passed his lips. "Happy now?" he asked. "Ecstatic!" she beamed. "Can you think of anyplace we missed?" he said. "Nope... under the bed maybe... but I don't think we'd fit." she chuckled. "Lets find out." he said. They didn't, but John didn't let it stop him. He took her on the floor next to the bed. When they could breath again he said: "Well, darling. I'm just about played out. Want to share a tub with me. I've only got four hours to make my flight." "That's plenty of time." she said. "I'm not sure I could make it to the lobby in four hours." he said, crawling in the direction of the bath. He lay soaking in the tub, she snuggled back against him. "I don't know if I set any all time world records this weekend, but I've virtually tripled my previous best..... I think. I lost count about a day ago." he moaned. "Twenty-nine times in thirty-six hours." she mused happily. "You counted?" he asked. "Yup. I remember every one of them." she said, smiling. "How about yourself. Do you remember how many orgasms you had?" he asked. "I lost count of that around a hundred and thirty." she mused. "How long ago was that?" he asked. "Oh.... lets see.... in front of the stereo? No.... I think we were actually in the bed." she said. "So by my reckoning that puts you around a hundred-forty- eight or nine..... Once more will make me an even thirty and you a hundred-fifty." he grinned. "You've *got* to be kidding!" she moaned. He wasn't She actually passed a hundred-fifty with a few to spare. A few hours latter they were dressed, hair combed and helping each other walk. She carried his briefcase, as he struggled with his suitcase. The guard in the lobby jumped up to help them. Taking both bags from the grateful couple. Although clean and well groomed, they walked like zombies. Their lips chapped, almost raw. The guard hailed a cab and got them into it with the luggage. He repeated the words "Airport" for the driver. As neither was talking so well. He watched the cab drive off. "Got to be some kind of world record." he said to the receding cab. They got John's bags checked in, mostly though help from the curbside check-in attendants. Sally checked his briefcase, not trusting him to carry anything. Then she kissed him deeply, oblivious to the crowds streaming around them and the startled stares from people who noticed their ages. She walked him to the security check through. He probably looked like a bombed out junkie to the guards. They took one look at her and understood why. She looked much the same. "I love you." she said. Kissing him one last time. "And I love you." he said. "Remember me next time you're in town." she said. "Not bloody likely I'll forget this weekend.... or week." he said, managing the energy to smile at her. "Well... you'd better go. Give me a call when you can." she said. "E-mail the number to me when you get your phone." he said. "Count on it. You might just get a letter or two out of me." she said. "That would be nice.... I'll miss you." he said. "Not half as much as I'll miss you.. now get your ass on the plane." she said, tears welling up into her eyes. She kissed him hard and then left, staggering her way back to the curb. She hailed a cab with tears running down her face. Somehow John made his way onto his plane. He was asleep before it left the ground. A stewardess let him sleep until the plane was virtually empty at his destination. Shaking him gently awake. Without thought he softly caressed the hand. The stewardess grinned but shook him harder. He opened his eyes. Suddenly pulling his hand away from hers. "Oh...sorry. I didn't realize." he said. "I know. It's okay... Uh, sir, we've landed. I think that's your helicopter waiting out there." she said. "Oh...of course. Thank you." he said, fumbling with his seat belt. She took pity on him, opening it for him. Then helping him to his feet. He staggered off the plane and an attendant walked him to his helicopter, his luggage already on board. The stewardess looked after him, wishing she had put him in that condition. She had never in her life seen a more contented man returning from New York City. The attendant got him belted in and his headset on. He was asleep again before they lifted off. Not even noticing when they made a stop at the helicopter's home base and a large cargo net was attached. Chapter 48 On Monday afternoon the girls were lounging around nude in the solarium. Each a little nervous over John's return. "Wonder where our wayward child is?" Theresa chuckled. "He'll be here... he better." Cindy said. "God, I'm so nervous." Sheila said. A distant thump-thump of a helicopter rotor spurned them all into action. Cindy flipped the controls that rolled the roof back into place. The helicopter could land with it in any position, but this gave them a moment more to get out of sight. They headed to the entry and each climbed into a snowmobile suit. Not bothering with any clothing under it. They pulled on boots, gloves and hats. Then went out just as the helicopter was circling. The pilot came in and gently set the cargo net beside the pad, releasing it. Then circled once more as the girls secured it. He touched down lightly and motioned to the girls. Sheila and Cindy came in with their heads ducked while Theresa held the net down. The pilot yelled out the window for them to wake his passenger up. Sheila crawled in and kissed him.... nothing. She pulled back bemused. She undid his belt and pulled off his headset. The noise of the rotor brought him half awake. His eyes barely nodding a flicker of recognition at Sheila as she and Cindy helped him out. Cindy went back to unloading the luggage as Sheila guided him safely away from the pad.. The blast of cold air helped revive him enough for the girls to guide him inside. They walked him straight down and put him into the bed. Theresa waved the Helicopter away. Then she began to open the cargo net. It was filled with a mixture of hydroponics tanks and chemicals and what looked like dress boxes and shopping bags. She opened one of the bags and pulled out a lovely piece of lingerie. Looking at it curiously. Looking after the receding helicopter. She shrugged and began to transfer the items inside. Cindy and Sheila joined her and they got the whole bunch inside. "Where's John?" Theresa asked. "OUT!" Cindy snapped. "Out where?" Theresa asked, not understanding. "Out cold!" Sheila said, somewhat dejected. "Asleep?" Theresa asked. Both the others nodded. "Wonder what *she* did to him... even if he's only had an hour or two's sleep we can usually wake him up." Theresa said. "Must be one hell of a woman. I'm just glad she stayed there." Cindy said. "If she did that to him, so am I." Sheila said. Theresa nodded, thoughtfully. John slept for a solid twelve hours. Waking on his bed, nude. Bodies warm and snug around him everywhere he looked. Cindy and Theresa were on either side of him. His head lay in Sheila's lap. "Oh god, am I in trouble!" he thought. As gently as he could he extracted himself from the bed. The two girls rolling together in his absence. Snuggling to Sheila's shapely legs. John stood looking at the lovely sight and then slipped out. He used the bath in the guest room and then made his way to the kitchen. He put on some coffee and made a sandwich. He was on his third wedge of club sandwich when Cindy appeared at the door. "The dead live.... must have been one hell of a woman." she said, not too coldly. John opened his arms to her and she was in them in a shot. Hugging and kissing him. "Oh, god. I missed you!" she cried. "I'm sorry I'm such a shithead." he said. "I don't care... as long as you're my shithead." she said. "All yours." he said. Kissing her deeply. He winced a bit over his lips. "What *did* that woman do to you?" Cindy chuckled. "I think she was testing the endurance of the male species for a science project." he chuckled. "Damn you. You promised you'd save some for us. I talked Sheila into staying so she'd be here to welcome you. And you return a god damned zombie." she cried. "I'm sorry... I never tried to make love thirty times in a day and a half before." John said. "Thirty!? Are you serious?" Cindy asked. "So she said. I lost count around twelve." John said. "And what did *you do* to her?" Cindy asked. "The best we could figure, about a hundred-fifty, maybe a few more." he said, sipping at his coffee. "That's incredible... I'm jealous... But why so much?" Cindy asked. "I didn't intend on it. But I didn't count on her being a virgin either. When I found out it had been her first time.... well, I wanted to make it extra special for her. I told her that I would do anything she wanted if she'd just let me know..... So.. she says... she wanted me on the table, the sofa, the floor, in the closet, the bath, the bed, in doorways, standing up, laying down, sitting and hanging from the ceiling. The last request was one of the hardest to fulfill. We ended up on top of her canopy bed. We tried it underneath too, but we couldn't fit." John said. Cindy hugged her man. "Poor baby... but I only count twelve." Cindy chuckled. "Add four times before she said that. Then another eight times in the bed at various later times. Then once *under* the table, once in front of the stereo, again in the closet, again sitting at the table, once on the kitchen counter and again in the bath." John concluded. "That's thirty.... this woman must *never* step foot in this house, I mean that." Cindy said, seriously. "Oh... I was hoping she could come visit and meet you girls in about six months." John said, dejected. "Oh...Okay." Cindy said, happily, hugging him. "Want any other women in your life? Maybe Theresa and I could seduce a pep club at college or something." Cindy continued. "No! No more women in my life! Besides the ones I've already got, that is." John said. "You certain? It might be fun seducing a pep club." Cindy chuckled. "You're making fun of me." John said. "What do you expect, John? Four women in your life. *Four!*" Cindy cried. John turned to her. Looking her right in the eyes. "Now please listen carefully to exactly what I say. Because I'm not complaining about it. But these *are* the facts. Of those four women, you perhaps are the only one that I've initiated a relationship with. And that was after you did your damnedest to seduce me. "One; Theresa impaled herself upon me in my sleep. "Two; you arrived and you and Theresa started playing who the hell can dress the sexiest. Okay, we get involved. "Three; I go to San Franciso on business. Sheila asks to come to my room, then asks if she can sleep with me anyway after I tell her I can't have intercourse with her. I still haven't. "And Four; Now Sally. I met her hungry on the street. I took her to a diner and fed her. I thought I could help her. I got her *her own* private room for the night. Bought her some clothes she could work in and found her a good job and a place to live. I helped her set it up. Now, she strips naked in front of me, telling me how much she wants me and how I'm welcome in her bed anytime I want. I fight her off for two days, after being without sex for five days. I finally call you and ask permission if I can sleep with her. Now you tell me yes, with your blessing and all is forgiven. Come home soon. "Now you're objecting to my relationships with whom? I love each of you deeply and dearly. But the simple fact is that I've just been a victim of circumstance from the minute Theresa stepped in front of my car. "I haven't hardly had a moment's peace since then, that's spelled `p e a c e'. It refers to tranquillity, which is why I moved out here into the desert in the first place. It refers to contentment. The contentment to sit looking at the stars, just sharing each others presence without every occasion in life being an excuse for an orgy. "Now basically you're burned because after helping a woman off the street she wants me to be her first man and I try to make that a special occasion for her. After doing my best to kill myself in a sexual marathon I actually sleep for twelve hours when what you have in mind is your own little love fest. Well, I'm sorry, but I don't feel guilty. "Now if you give me a little time and food, I will do my very best to fulfill all your desires and the other women's too. Okay?" John concluded. Cindy sobbed against him. He held her, waiting for whatever came. "I'm sorry... I never looked at it from your point of view before.... Sometimes I've tried to... but it never seemed like you just said. I guess I've just had this image of you and I... together.... I do understand peace. I've dreamed about sitting watching you barbecue hamburgers on the deck... It never occurred to me that it was my dream... not yours." Cindy sobbed. "Cindy, there's nobody else I'd love barbecuing for besides you. I love you with all my heart. But I told you from the start that there was a problem with our age difference. Everyone can deny it. But it's true. "We don't think the same. And it's not because either of us is doing something wrong. We think differently, because people of different ages think differently. Now I don't want our relationship to end. I really do love you. But I can't promise I'm ever going to think the same way you do either. "I try to understand the best I can and to do things I think are *right*. Sometimes what *I* think is right, may be *wrong* for *you*. Sometimes what you think is right, is going to be wrong for me. That's just the facts of life. It doesn't mean I don't love you. It doesn't mean I'm an uncaring asshole. Fact is that I think I've been outstandingly tolerant. Before you and Theresa came into my life, I was never exposed to bisexuality. But I didn't judge you for that. I still don't. But as open minded as I have been, on the other side I expect an open mind in return. Now... Sheila..... I think first off that she's the best person to run your company. Beyond that, yes, I'm attracted to her. You were too when you first met her. Now I have *yet* to have sexual relations with her. You and Theresa had her all to yourself, for a whole week. During most of that week, I slept alone. Up to the last day and a half. During which time I spent with a lovely young girl I thought *needed* me. And then only after I asked for and received not only your *permission*, but your *blessing*. I left her there. I wouldn't have minded staying, she sure as hell wanted me to. But I came back to you. Now what is fair? What is right?" John asked. "I don't know... I just know I love you...and I don't want to lose you." Cindy cried. "I don't want to lose you either.... that's why I came back. Fact is that I didn't *expect* you to say yes when I called to ask your permission. I expected you to scream and shout and hang up on me. Then I would have felt justified telling Sally no. But you didn't say no. You can't really get mad at me for that one." John said. "I know... And when you explained the circumstances....I didn't want to tell you no.. but I didn't expect.... That you'd enjoy it." she said. "When, darling, have *any* of us *not* enjoyed it?" John chuckled. She smiled. "I know... I guess I'm just not used to being jealous." she said. "You know yourself that jealousy is rooted in insecurity. Now I have no intention of changing my relationship with you. You've told me you intend to be with me till I die. I haven't got a clue why you'd want to. But that's certainly agreeable to me. "Now I don't expect to have an ongoing relationship with Sally. She's there, far away. All alone, beautiful and talented in a big city. If she doesn't fall in love, and soon. Then it's her own damn fault. I really only wanted to help her out. "In fact... I've been trying to figure out a way to help others like her, and you and Theresa... without having to be personally involved with each and every one of them. For one thing, I don't have the stamina or emotional energy. My sphere of love has bounded, finite limits. I fully intend to apply what little I have to those who love me now. "That means you first.. Theresa for as long as she wants and Sheila for as long as it works with us all. Fact is that I thought Sheila might be a good friend for you when Theresa went away. I don't know if I could keep you happy all by myself." John said. "You really love me first?" Cindy asked. "Well, I couldn't say it in front of Theresa, or Sheila... but yes. I do. I've never tried to deny that I've wanted you since the first moment I met you. When you were looking at me like I was a dirty old man who had absconded with your girlfriend." John chuckled. "I was right on both counts, too." Cindy chuckled. "Yes, you were... but Theresa absconded with herself." John said. "Uh... John. About Theresa... she needs all the love we can give her." Cindy said. "Okay... why?" he asked. "Well.... Sheila got her talking... She opened up and told us all about her family and why she left. I had no idea how bad her life was. Like Sheila said, I'm amazed the girl can smile at all." Cindy said. "Bad huh?" John asked. "The worst. And her life stayed bad right up to the moment she met you..... I guess just like Sally in New York..... If she hadn't met you, where would she be?" Cindy asked... seeing things in a new light. "Oh.. I don't know. Something might have turned up for her. Maybe not. She was begging for money for food when I met her. I just couldn't turn my back on her. I'm amazed that anybody can." John said. Cindy nodded against his shoulder. "You know... it's not so much that I had to do for her... I guess I didn't have to sleep with her, maybe it would have been better for all involved if I hadn't.... but I'm not really sorry I did. I think it will serve as a transition point in her life. The bad things that happened to her occurred when she was a child... from here on out, she's a woman and she knows it. "Anyway, financially it wasn't that much to help her. If you throw out the first two hotel nights, because I didn't want to look any harder for options. There's six- hundred. So, I guess clothes were the big part. But they didn't need to be that fancy.. followed by furniture...which didn't have to be that fancy... then food. Which didn't amount to all that much.. and I gave her three hundred in cash... mostly to tide her over till her paychecks started to come in. She insists she'll pay me back...and I think she really will... but I'm thinking that for around ten grand a year you could help just about anybody change their life." John concluded. "Ten grand is a fortune to most people of the world, John." Cindy said. "I know... but I was thinking... If this fashion thing gets as big as everybody seems to think it will get.... well, I've got all the money I need. I think I want to start a foundation to help the homeless with my proceeds from it." John said. "What kind of foundation? How would you help them?" Cindy asked. "I don't know what kind.. as far as how to help them. One of the problems Sally had, was that you need an address to get a job and a job to get an address. The other problem is that nobody wants to hire a dirty person. So... A place where they can get a post office box, where they can receive phone messages. Where they can make outgoing calls. Where they can wash their clothes and take a shower without having to worry about what few possessions they have. After that, sparse housing... and I mean sparse. A bed and a crapper. Someplace where they can sleep without freezing to death and take a crap in peace. That's it. Nothing that will encourage those who don't want to work to hang around, but a means for those who're stuck on the street to get off of it. Permanently. Also a time limit. If you're not employed.... rather, if you're employed or not after six months.. you're outta there." John said. "But how would you keep such a place from becoming a haven for drug usage and such?" Cindy asked. "Simple rules. No visitors in rooms. No communal area. This is a place to get your shit together, that's all. No drinking, no drugs, first offense, you're out." John explained. "Kind of harsh isn't it?" Cindy asked. "Nope. Life on the streets, that's harsh. This is a way out, not a way to prolong it. Take it seriously or get out of the way for someone who will." John said. "I think it would help... How would you keep track....I mean, what's to keep a person from using someone else's name. If they get kicked out of one, that is. What's to keep them from just going to another one and using a different name." Cindy queried. "Social Security numbers. With proof. Funny the government could save themselves millions by doing the same thing. You could call it a government loan. Charge it to their Social Security number. When they get a job, they start paying back into the system. Any income tax refund they were due would go towards paying the government back. But in the meantime, they're off the welfare system." John said. "Sounds like it could help.... Uh....John?" Cindy said. "Yes dear." "I've been thinking... almost everybody you've been involved with... You've been helping them out, haven't you. I mean, Theresa, Me, Sally and Sheila." Cindy said. "Not really Sheila, she was well off and totally competent all on her own. I don't think I'm helping her in anyway." John said. "That's not true... Maybe not financially... but Sheila needs you." Cindy said. "How so?" John asked. "She needs your *understanding* of the lifestyle she has chosen... or if you believe it... that chose her or whatever. She told Theresa and I that you were everything that her husband wasn't. I guess that he wasn't very tolerant of her attraction to women. Then you show up in her life. You're living with two women who love each other. Well, besides the fact that you're a handsome, macho stud who can make love thirty times in a day and a half, she loves you because she needs your understanding." Cindy said. "Hmm....maybe so.. So where is this leading?" John asked. "Well, it's just that... You've been helping everyone whom you've been involved with. And I've been getting jealous of them. When what you're doing for them, is the exact same thing you've been doing for me. I realize that now... And I'm sorry... You have my open blessing to help anybody you wish to in any manner you see fit. That includes sleeping with them." Cindy said. "No thank you." John said simply. "Huh?" Cindy said. "Cindy, darling. I'm throttling back. My personally helping days are over. When Theresa goes off to college, that project will be over. I'll still be happy to see her, and she'll always be welcome in my bed. But essentially it will be over. "You, have chosen of your own free will, to stay with me. But even so you are well on your way to being financially secure... If the fashion deal works out, financially *very* secure. You, as a *project* are over. You now share my bed as an equal, not one of my wards. "Sheila, if she chooses to be involved with us on an equal basis, is welcome to stay. For whatever reasons she cares about us. I don't consider her a project. "Sally, is established, or soon will be. That's why I wanted her to visit in six months. About that time she should have the fashion house all organized and whipped into shape. What I had in mind for her, was a sort of graduation party. She's too close to what she's doing. She won't see the progress she's making. Not until she steps back from it and views it objectively. That's when she will really become a woman. When she realizes that she *can* do it, because she has *done* it. "But while I want her to realize that, and as lovely and sensual as she is, I was planning on having you right there hanging on my arm saying `This is my man. You may share him for a while. I might even join you or enjoy you myself, but when you go back, he will still be my man.' And then the Sally project is closed. I'm free to love as I please, for the reasons that I please. Does this make any sense to you?" John asked. "It does now.... And I like the sound of that... `This is my man'...... You've never talked to me about any of this before. Why not?" she asked. "Part of it I just realized myself. Besides that, your biggest complaint with me has been me not being open and honest with you. I thought about that long and hard while I was in New York, after you chewed me out. And you're absolutely right. But sometimes being open and honest, isn't being kind. It might have been kinder to lie to you about Sally. But I can't do that. I don't want to do that. "I want to be open and honest with you. That's what I was being when I called you up and asked permission to bed Sally. At first, you were ecstatic about my honesty. You were right up to the point where it took my time away from you. I don't think it was that I enjoyed myself. You've never begrudged me that. Nor have I, you. I think you were a little jealous, because I've never made love to you thirty times in a day and a half.... but when have we had that opportunity? It most certainly wasn't because I didn't *want* to make love to you that much. We've just never had the chance. "Besides... making love with you.... is *special*. It always has been. We've never *needed* to make love that much to show each other how much we care. For me one orgasm with you is worth a dozen that I experienced with Sally. She didn't know how to experience the *depth of feeling* that we do. She only came close on two of those thirty... well maybe three. The first time is undoubtedly deep for anybody.... anyway. She experienced physical love, without ever knowing the deeper true feelings that make it really special." John said. "Dear heart, will you take me to bed and just hold me? We can use the guest room so we won't disturb the others." Cindy asked. "Of course... what about.... Won't they feel slighted or something." John asked. "I don't really care. I want *my man* in my arms *now*." she said. "Okay... but I don't think I could perform yet." John said. "Doesn't matter. I just want you there, holding me. Okay?" Cindy asked. "Okay..... I love you." John said. "I must love you too. I just listened to you tell me how you made love to another woman thirty times and how you never did that to me because you care more for me...and I bought it. I actually feel good about it. Now either I'm losing it... or I love you. I'd prefer it was the latter." she chuckled. "But it's the truth!" he protested. "I know it is. That's why I want you to hold me. I listened to every word you said. Every word made absolute sense. I understand.... and I never did before. "Sheila accused Theresa and I of being self-less. I told her that I was *very* selfish. Because you were my man and I wanted what you wanted. I didn't actually believe myself then... but I do now. I really believe that I want what you want. Because for the first time I understand that whatever you want... *it's right*. It's the right thing to *do*, it's the right thing to *feel*, it's the right way to *think*." Cindy concluded. "I'm not so certain that's true. I wouldn't count on that if I were you." John chuckled. "*I'm* sure it's true... as far as counting on it... I know that your long term average will work out that way. But even in the short term, you're always *trying* to do what's right. That's good enough for me." Cindy said. "Did I ever tell you that I love you." John said. "A few times.. I never hear it enough." Cindy replied. "Well.... I do love you." John said. "You talk too much. Come prove it." Cindy said, taking his hand and leading him. About the time John and Cindy were heading back to bed, Sally was dragging herself out of hers. She was still groggy, but ecstatically happy. Everything in her life was new. New job starting in a few hours. New apartment, new clothes. She was so new to the apartment, she still had to grope for the light switches. She retrieved a cup of coffee from the automatic pot she had set up before falling into bed the day before and set about establishing a morning routine. A few hours later she showed up at the fashion house, twenty minutes early, eager to start work. She walked a little tenderly, but when asked sloughed it off as strained muscles in her lower back from over exerting herself over the weekend. (Not far from the truth.) She'd be a little sore for a few days and then should be fine. First thing at work she discussed her priorities with the manager, consulting the working agenda John had helped her prepare on her new laptop. The manager seemed very pleased about her ambitious approach. He questioned her about John not picking up copies of her contract the day before. She informed him that he'd had a very busy day and just barely made his flight as it was. He had asked her to fax them to him. The manager shrugged. Sally read over the contracts carefully. John had told her that even if she didn't understand them fully, to appear to read them carefully. They were pretty straight forward though, she had no qualms about signing them. The manager countersigned them and a secretary witnessed them. She had a job! The apartment was hers for a year, regardless of how the job worked out. She had full benefits, holidays off, sick leave and two weeks paid vacation after six months. She already knew how she would use them. She missed John terribly already. She missed him the instant she woke up that morning and reached for him. She sighed to herself and set about her tasks for the day. She was still at it late into the evening. She caught herself nodding off and then noticed the time. She closed up her laptop, stroked her new desk lovingly. Looked smiling around her new office again and headed home. She splurged and bought Chinese take out for dinner. When she hit the bed, her exhaustion overcame her loneliness and she was out like a light. During the night she hugged a pillow tightly to her. Chapter 49 "So what goes on here?" Theresa's voice asked. Cindy lifted her head and put her finger to her lips. John stirred anyway. "Mmmm.... Hi pumpkin. Can I have a hug?" he said. "You most certainly can." Theresa said, diving onto the bed. She hugged him fiercely. He hugged back with as much strength as he had. "Let me brush my teeth, and I'll greet you properly." he said. "Oh pooh!" Theresa said, kissing him deeply. John was reserved in his kiss. "Well, you'd better go brush your teeth if that's the best you can do before then. But honest. Your breath is not bad." Theresa said. "Can't be too good." John said, crawling off the bed. Cindy watched him go. "I wished you hadn't wakened him. I wanted to let him sleep." she said. "Whatever for?" Theresa asked. "You have no idea what he's been through. You remember our first week without him. How much we slept?" Cindy asked. "Of course... how could I forget *that*?" Theresa chuckled. "Well, John just went through the equivalent of over half that week, only he did it in thirty-six hours." Cindy said. "He couldn't possibly have gone through that in thirty- six hours. Isn't physically possible.. for a man." Theresa replied. "Thirty times!" Cindy informed her. "Thirty!" Theresa gasped. "Thirty." Cindy replied. "God.... no wonder he was such a zombie." Theresa mused. "Anyway... I thought if he could sleep all day he might possibly have half a chance to properly welcome Sheila tonight." Cindy said. "I will do my best for god and country." John proclaimed, returning. "I was referring to doing your best for Sheila." Cindy chuckled. "I thought she was leaving yesterday." John said. "She stayed to see you. But all she got was a vacant stare." Theresa chided. "Leave the poor boy be." Cindy scolded. "Well, he'd better think of some way to speed up the recovery, cause Sheila's putting on her war paint and battle gear now." Theresa said. "I shall just have to tell her the truth...... that I was abducted by pirates who made me rape camels and service every harem on the Slave coast. I barely escaped by the skin of my teeth by using my profound wit. I had one log for a raft and no oar. I had to use my manhood to paddle back." John said. Cindy busted out laughing. "I may have believed you... right up to the profound wit part. You'd better leave that part out if you're going to tell it to Sheila. Try substituting `fluke of luck' instead." Theresa chuckled. "Woman may have a point... Safer to lie." John mused. "Well, at least *that woman* left your horrid sense of humor." Cindy chuckled. "Horrid? How dast you cast dispersions upon my character like that." John replied, indignantly. "How *dast I cast*?" Cindy asked. "Past tense of dare-est.... I'll have you know, that what I find humorous *is* funny and what all others find funny is either sick or boring." John asserted. "Whatever you say dear." Cindy said. She was going to kiss him but Theresa jumped in: "Oh no, me next." She pulled her to him and tested his mouthwash. It must have been okay as she tested it for a long, long time. Her hand toyed with his manhood while she did it. It lay there. She pulled back and looked at it. "I think she broke it." she said. "Precisely why I was going to let him sleep." Cindy said, butting in to re-claim her aborted advance. She kissed John tenderly. "I think it moved." Theresa said. "What's for breakfast?" Cindy asked. "That's what I came to find out, it's your turn." Theresa chuckled. "Oh... John?" Cindy asked. "What?" he said. "What would you like for breakfast." Cindy asked, exasperated. "Oh... Nine Tawna leaves should do it." he mused. "Huh? What the hell are Tawna leaves." Theresa asked. "Just showing my age.. In an ancient movie called *The Mummies Curse*, they used nine Tawna leaves broken into boiling water to revive the mummy." John said. "Will coffee and French toast do?" Cindy asked. "Sounds like a good start... Bacon and eggs too." he replied. "That many eggs is bad for your heart. Not to mention what the bacon does." Cindy stated. "That's why I don't *usually* eat that many... but this morning, that's what I want. Breakfast strips will be fine for the bacon..... about six." he replied. Cindy gave him one of her special exasperated looks. But headed off. "*How dast I cast..*." she mumbled. "Theresa, you may tease him.... but don't do any further damage." she called back. "Uppity cooks." muttered John. "Where else will you find cooks that make you hungry just from what they wear." Theresa asked. "Or don't wear, rather." John chuckled. "I always wear at least a T-shirt.......... whenever I'm cooking bacon." Theresa said. John crawled back onto the bed, leaning against the headboard. Theresa crawled up next to him and kissed him softly, then rested her head against his shoulder. "You may begin the teasing... but I warn you. A harem full of nude virgins would be unlikely to stir me." he said. "Did you really make love thirty times in thirty-six hours?" Theresa asked. "No.... it was thirty-four and a half. I had a flight to catch." John said. "Must have been a hell of a woman." Theresa said, moodily. "She is... but don't be jealous. She wouldn't understand this." he said, drawing the back of his fingernail gently down her arm from her shoulder. She giggled and shivered. "Then why did you do it?" she asked. "I'm not quite sure.... For one thing, it was her first time.... I wanted it to be memorable.... for another... I couldn't bring her back with me. I knew I wouldn't see her for a long time. Beyond that, I can't say." he said. "She damn sure ought to remember thirty orgasms." Theresa mused. "Oh, no. That was me. We figured her at somewhere above a hundred and fifty." John said. "A hundred and fifty!!! God, and I thought you were a zombie. I'll bet she's still asleep!" Theresa giggled. "Better not be, today's her first day of work." John said. "You did that to her knowing she had to start a new job today?" Theresa asked. "That was one of her criteria; that it be difficult for her to walk into work. I think I can safely say she got her wish." John said. "I'll say.... but how come you never did that to me?" Theresa asked. John sighed. "A victim of my own reputation.... As I told Cindy, about four this morning, because I never needed to... to show you I cared. We've always had quality sex. As such we never needed quantity sex." John said, hoping she'd buy it. "So you didn't have quality sex with her." Theresa asked. "Maybe two out of the bunch." John replied. Theresa was thoughtful. "Okay." she said. "Okay what?" John asked. "Okay, you don't need to do that to me.... so long as we can continue to have quality sex." she chuckled. "Knock Knock." said Sheila at the door. John looked up and gasped. "I warned you that she was putting on full battle gear." Theresa chuckled. "Hello." John said simply and held out his free arm to her. Sheila, unsure for a second started for him. "Don't take it personal. He's been setting Olympic records." Theresa said. She kissed him on the cheek and climbed out of the bed. Sheila was in his arms. She hugged him like a long lost lover. He held her close to him. Wondering how to tell her. "I'll just go help Cindy find the Tawna leaves." Theresa said. "Oh... like from *The Mummies Curse*?" Sheila asked. "Why do I suddenly feel like a kid?" Theresa asked, walking away. "Huh?" Sheila asked. "Nothing.. Neither of them ever heard of *The Mummies Curse*..... So how have you been? What do you think of my little lovelies?" John asked. "I'm amazed you're still alive." Sheila said, rolling her eyes. John chuckled. Sheila seemed disappointed by something. "Oh." John thought. He pulled her into a great kiss and cleaned her tonsils. Then he softened it and ended barely touching her lips with his. "That's better." Sheila said, huskily, "I thought maybe you'd forgotten all about me." "Not a chance... I've just been... a little bit indisposed." John said. "That I believe. I saw you yesterday." Sheila chuckled. "You saw me yesterday?" John asked. "I met you at the helicopter. Undid your seat belt and got you out. Walked you down to the bedroom and undressed you." Sheila said. "I have no memory since....... The airport in New York. Not much about that. Don't remember much since.... Sunday night some time." John said. "So what happened to you?" Sheila asked. "Well.... Theresa thought I should lie and say that I was abducted by pirates who made me rape camels and service every harem along the slave coast. That I barely escaped by a fluke of luck and had to paddle home on a log using my manhood for a paddle...... But I assert that it wasn't a fluke of luck, I maintain that I escaped by my outstanding wit." John said. "So you're not going to tell me." Sheila said. "Sure... I made love thirty times in thirty-six hours." John said. "So you're not going to tell me." Sheila repeated. "That, my dear is the truth. Actually it was thirty-four and a half hours. I had a plane to catch." John said. "Look, you don't have to tell me." Sheila said. "But I *am* telling you the truth." John said. "You expect me to believe you made love thirty times in thirty-six hours?" she asked. "Thirty-four and a half... Didn't I look the part when you saw me?" John asked. Sheila looked at him a moment. "Yes... you did." she said, moodily. John looked at her a moment. "Let me guess. You're just a wee bit ticked off that I set records making love to a woman, one I met after you, when I wouldn't have intercourse with you when we slept together." John said. "The thought *did* cross my mind." Sheila said, icily. "I didn't have permission to make love with you. I did have permission to make love with her." John said. "That's your defense?" she asked. "No.. I need no defense. I have done nothing wrong. I will not feel guilty for any of my actions concerning either her, or you. "My only regret, is that I was not able to properly welcome you yesterday. However, I did not *expect* you to be here, so I made no allowance for the fact. If however, you will give me ample time to recover, then it will be my distinct pleasure to bed you until you look like I did yesterday. In the meantime, you might just ask Cindy how she feels about what I did in New York. I think she understands me a little better now." John said. Sheila looked at him in exasperation. She didn't know whether to cry or kiss him. She settled for the latter. "Okay, dear heart. I want to understand. Why don't you tell me all about it." she said, softly. "Tell you what. To save me telling it twice, let me tell it over breakfast. Theresa hasn't heard it either.. By the way, you look absolutely stupendous." John said. "I didn't think you noticed." Sheila said. "I'm wore out, not dead." he said. "Just a little something the girls whipped up for me." Sheila chuckled. "Were you planning on wearing that in San Francisco? I just want to know where to bail you out." John chuckled. "No... well, maybe privately... for Mae and Judy." Sheila said. "Okay, dear. Can you squeeze a few more days in. I'd really like to properly welcome you.... I guess our little deception didn't exactly work." John said. "Yes, I can stay a few more days. I'm really just going back at all as a favor to them to wrap up my accounts and brief them on what's open. I owe them that much. They've been pretty good to me. "As far as our little deception... Cindy's a whole lot smarter than you give her credit for. She was onto me, *us* rather, the second morning when I got up.... The part that amazes me, is that it still worked. I think." Sheila said, snuggling to him. ''That doesn't really surprise me. I had faith in all of you. With good reason. Now... tell me about your week with my little minxes." John said. "You mean besides making love about fourteen times a day." Sheila chuckled, "God, they're almost insatiable..... Well... They showed me how the system worked.... You've GOT to do something about that scanner. We'd get sued by jealous husbands who never satisfied their wives. They'd come home all dreamy eyed and try to rape them. Anyway, they showed me a bunch of the fashions they did.... they're outstanding! We worked out a few ideas for setting up the salons. Covered a few ground rules. Security will be a problem. Those things are too damn real. You could do close-ups for National Inquirer and nobody would know the difference, except that the pictures would be too clear. That's a problem for the celebrity crowd, who you really need as customers." "No problem there, I can put zebra stripes on the mannequins. In day glow orange and green. I was just trying to make them as real as possible. They don't have to be, to be functional as casting forms. They don't even have to have heads." John said. "Great idea. That would solve a lot of problems. How come you can think of those things so easily?" Sheila asked. "I told you, my outstanding wit. That's how I got away from the pirates." John said. "Come on, dear heart. If you can comfortably lay here in the nude talking to me while I'm wearing *this* outfit, without getting excited, then I believe you did as you said. You can tell me the details over breakfast." Sheila said. "Don't you want to hear my pirate story?" John asked, hurt. "Maybe later. If I can't have what I wanted for breakfast, I want food instead." Sheila said, chuckling. She kissed him tenderly. Then bent and kissed his manhood softly. It lay there. "Yup, I believe it. Now come on, I'm hungry." She chuckled, crawling off the bed. John sighed and followed her. He stalled to pull on a shirt and a pair of shorts. Theresa set a cup of coffee before a moody John. "What's wrong with you?" she asked. "She believed me, didn't want to hear my pirate story." John grumped. "No, but I do want to hear about what led up to your marathon.. and maybe about the marathon itself." Sheila said. "The pirate story is better." John said, sipping his coffee. He smiled at it. "Come on, love. I want to hear about it too." Theresa said. "I wouldn't mind hearing it again myself... just to be sure I'm not losing it." Cindy chuckled. "No Tawna leaves, huh?" John said, looking at his coffee and sipping again. "Okay.... Well, having just been royally reamed by Cindy, I'm walking along, minding my own business when this tall red head walks up to me, only I didn't notice she was a redhead at the time...." he began. Cindy served him his breakfast and he attacked it. Continuing between his chewing. He told them the *whole* story about Sally. Up to his arrival at her apartment for the start of the marathon and then up to her request. "You know, you're a pretty okay guy." Sheila said, kissing his forehead on the way to refill her coffee. "The pirate story would have been better." he said. Theresa kissed him too, but on the mouth. "I want to hear the pirate story.....later." she said. John brightened visibly. Cindy looked back and forth between the two other women. "No... I'm not losing it...or we all are..... it certainly isn't his *outstanding wit* that keeps us from killing him." she chuckled. She kissed him too. "So... did any packages arrive with me?" John asked. "Just a cargo net full. We put the hydroponics stuff down on eight." Theresa said. "No other packages?" John asked. "Lots. They're in the new Com room you haven't finished." Cindy said. "Like when have I had time?..... So did you look in any of them." he asked. "Nope... we were pissed off enough we didn't want to." Cindy replied. "Then I suggest that you and Theresa go open them. There's a not so small fortune in those boxes." John said. "Of what?" Theresa asked. "Why don't you go find out." he replied. "I should clean up." Cindy said. "Later." John said. The two girls shrugged and headed downstairs. "So what's in the boxes?" Sheila asked, sliding onto his lap. "Just a little sample of your competition." John said. "*You cut her up?!*" Sheila asked. "Your fashion competition." John said. "Oh... what?" she asked. "Dresses, suits, lingerie. That sort of thing." he replied. "Lingerie?" she asked, jumping off his lap. "Yup... some real...nice stuff." he chuckled. She was out the door following the girls. The girls had half the boxes open and delicate tissue paper all over the place when Sheila entered. She surveyed the outfits they had already opened. "Jesus, he wasn't kidding about not so small fortune... there must be fifty thousand dollars worth of clothes here." she said. "Really?" Theresa said, looking up from the pant suit she was holding in front of her. "Easy... that little number in your hands was probably fifteen hundred." Sheila said. Cindy looked at her, trying to see if she was joking. Sheila lightly touched the fabric of one outfit longingly. "Before I met John, I used to only dream about having a wardrobe like this." She said. "That outfit Theresa has cost fifteen-hundred dollars?" Cindy asked incredulously. "Try seven-fifty." John said, walking into the room carrying his coffee. "No way." Sheila said. "Half off sale." John said. "I don't believe it." Sheila said. "No joke. The manager himself took fifty percent off my bill. I have a witness if I dared produce her, but I have the receipt anyway." he said. "But we could produce it in three hours." Cindy said. "That, my dear, is why you are going to be so filthy rich." Sheila said. "Why *we* are." Cindy reminded her. "So why did you buy all this?" Theresa asked. "To see the look on your pretty face right now." John said. "But..... all this money?" she asked. "A pittance... and deductible.... Market research... Correct Sheila?" John asked. "Maybe... have you filed incorporation yet?" she asked. "Not yet. Papers all drawn up, holding for the day the girls both have turned eighteen." John replied. Sheila nodded. "You might pull it off, but not likely. It would be passable if you were already incorporated." Sheila said. "I am. The girls aren't... Meet sole proprietor of John Stevens Inc." John said. "And how will you connect Stevens Inc. to Second Skin Inc." Sheila asked. "Research, before venture capital investment in Second Skin. The girls are going to need startup. Lots of it. John Stevens Inc. holds the patents that are going to be licensed to Second Skin Inc." John explained. "In that case, yes, it's probably deductible." Sheila said. "I didn't care either way..... I really just bought them for the girls. I want to see them in them, besides they'll need them when they get out into the business world. Bankers notice things like that outfit. You noticed it right away." John said. "Bankers?" Theresa asked. "No way around them, honey." Sheila said, "To get this off the ground properly will take a lot of moolah. Maybe even more than John has total." "And I won't get all of it till I'm a hundred and three." John chuckled. "It will take at least a million dollars up front.........Maybe not." Sheila said, thinking. "What's on your mind, doll." John asked. "I was just thinking. What if we merged into an existing high end fashion house. Or better yet, a joint venture with one. Retaining rights. Both benefit for the time of the venture. Perhaps grant them first franchise." Sheila mused. "Mae" John asked. Sheila nodded. "What happens in May?" Cindy asked. "Not May the month, Mae, my sweet lover. She runs one of the finest fashion houses in San Francisco. A tough market to crack to start with." Sheila said. "Would she be interested?" John asked. "Undoubtedly, seeing as how your process will knock her right out of business when it gets going. She's going to flip right out when she sees the wardrobe the girls made for me." Sheila mused. "Me thinks we see the foundation of a plan here." John said. "Me thinks you're right." Sheila said. "Can we put it together in thirteen months?" John asked. "I think so. But it will be a hectic thirteen months." she replied. "Your call girls. It's your company." John said, turning to them. "We don't have a clue where to start.. so count us in." Cindy said, looking to Theresa for confirmation. Theresa nodded. Chapter 50 After ogling their new fashions for some time, the girls carted them off to their wardrobe. Each selecting a dynamite outfit for that evening. Cindy headed off to finish the kitchen cleanup. Theresa and Sheila assisted John with setting up the hydroponics tanks. "John?" Sheila said, as they worked. "Yes, love?" he replied, trying to fathom somebody's idea of instructions. "How come you don't have an intercom system set up here?" she asked. John looked up, puzzled. "It never occurred to me." he replied. "It's just that the place is so large, you could use one.... It's almost large enough for it's own phone system." Sheila said. John sighed a bit: "That's one of the reasons that I chose to live out here, to get away from phones." "When there's somebody on the other end you don't wish to talk to, I agree. But an internal phone system would always have a loved one on the other end. I was just thinking of saving steps." She said. "Wouldn't hurt sometimes." Theresa pitched in. "I'll think about it." John mumbled. "You surprise me, John. With as much understanding of technology as you have, I thought you'd be into the latest gear." Sheila said. John was silent for a time as he worked. "Well, I try to branch out a bit. A long time ago a friend made a comment to me that made a lasting impression. He said: 'When you know electronics, that's all you know.' At the time I didn't understand what he meant. I do now. Anyway, since then I've always tried to be more than just my profession." John said. Sheila put her arms around him, stopping his work. "I think you are much more than that. Way more." she said. "I try." John said, "I try." "I do believe you've got another fan." Theresa mused. Cindy joined them. John put her in charge of the setup and then kissed each of them in turn, choosing randomly based on whomever was closest. He told them he was going to go catch up on some stuff in the Com room. "Have fun." Cindy said, trying to figure out the instructions he had handed her. A short time later Sheila wandered into the Com room. John was peering at a satellite photo. He looked up as she came in. "I kind of felt like a fifth wheel." she said. "Hm... Ah, how anxious are you to get back?" John asked. "Not very anxious at all... I just need to finish up some things." she replied. "Let me rephrase then; How critical is it that you get back?" he asked. "Not really critical at all. Just the sooner I go back, the sooner I can come to stay. Why?" Sheila asked. "Because, dear heart, there's one shebang, doozie of a storm heading our way. Your options are to fly out sooner, like as fast as I can get the helicopter here, or stay for several days." John replied. "And which would you like me to do?" Sheila asked, sheepishly. John looked at her a moment before he realized she was serious. "That's the silliest damn question I've ever heard on this planet." John said. "So which is it?" she demanded. "One... If I had no interest in you, I would still like you to stay. Because I wouldn't want you flying in weather like you would encounter. Second, and more importantly; I love you. I don't want you to go at all. I just understand your need to fulfill obligations." John said, dragging her onto his lap. "Well, since you put it that way... I'd love to stay." Sheila said, melting into a deep kiss with him. After a time he scooted her out of his lap. He called the helicopter service to cancel the next days flight. They had been about to call him. They got the weather report too. Next Sheila called and canceled her reservations for the flight back to San Francisco. She told her agent she'd let them know when she needed a flight. "That's better. Now I have you all to myself.. for several days at least." John said. Sheila climbed back into his lap. "Now where were we?" she asked. He wasn't opposed to a prelude for that evening. Later John went topside to check that things were secure. Sheila went to help Theresa with lunch. "Everything's secure." John stated, sitting down with the others. "Wished I knew how you arranged these things." Theresa mused. "What things?" John asked, helping himself to a sandwich. "Convenient storms that arrive just in time to insure you more time to recuperate." she chuckled. "Oh.. I don't think I'll need that much time." John mused, looking at Sheila. She nodded absently. "You didn't?" Cindy asked, looking back and forth between them. "No, we didn't." Sheila replied, "But he's halfway back already." "You must have given him some outstanding inspiration." Cindy mused. "I think that's a fair estimate." John replied. Later that day the storm struck. The front came in with high winds, sleet turned quickly to snow. By dusk it was a blizzard. They were just about to start dinner when an alarm sounded in the silo. "What the hell?" Cindy asked. John looked puzzled. "That's the road alarm." he said, heading for the Com room. He called up the computer display and sought out the offending sensor. The girls came and looked over his shoulder. "What is it?" Cindy asked. "I don't know. But there's a hunk of metal suddenly sitting on the road about four miles away. Just over the ridge." John said. "It must be a false alarm. Wouldn't it have tripped before that?" Cindy asked. "I don't know why it didn't, but it's real enough. It's sitting almost on top of one, and the adjacent ones on either side show the proper variances from norm." he said. "So what do you think it is?" Theresa asked. "I don't know... but I think I'd better go find out." he replied. "But it's a damn blizzard out there!" Cindy stated. "Which is precisely why I have to go out. If that's somebody stuck out there, they could freeze to death." he said. "But what if you freeze finding out?" Theresa asked. "Not likely. I'll take my cellular. If I get in trouble, you two can come get me." he replied. "Who do you think it is?" Sheila asked. "I haven't the foggiest idea. But they came cross country. That's the only explanation for them not tripping the road sensors earlier." John said. "Couldn't it be a piece of metal blown on the road by the storm?" Cindy asked. "Nope, too damn big. Put some coffee on, I think I'm gonna need it." John said. "Want some company?" Sheila asked. "No. No need risking anybody else unless we have to." John said, heading for the entrance. "Thought you said it wasn't a risk." Theresa called after him. He ignored the statement. He suited up, Cindy brought him a sweater to wear under the snowmobile suit. Just in case he stuffed the pockets full of disposable hand warmer packs. He started two and stuffed them in pockets on either side. He got his snow boots on and Cindy zippered his cellular into one of his pockets after checking the battery. "You ought to put some stronger radios on the snowmobiles." she told him. "20/20 hindsight. I probably will in the future." John shrugged. "Don't stay out any longer than you have to." Theresa told him. He accepted a quick kiss from each before he lowered his visor and cracked the hatch. Outside the weather was bitter. There was at least a twenty-five mile an hour wind blowing huge, heavy flakes of snow down in diagonal sheets. John made his way to the storage shed and got out one of the snowmobiles. Checking the tank. He topped it off and then headed out. The gate was reluctant to open. He had to climb off the machine and add his muscles along with the electric's to wrestle it open. He headed down the road. A small compass on the dash and the dips on either side of the road the only things keeping him on track. It didn't take him too long to reach the ridge, wiping the snow from his visor constantly. Just over the other side of the ridge he found his answer. There was a snowmobile with a twisted up ski on it. It had dug into the bank where the road was elevated a bit from the country side. Next to the snowmobile was a fiberglass toboggan set up as a wind break. Four shapes tried to huddle together in the leeward side of it. The snowmobile was idling, supplying a scant amount of heat. One of the shapes looked up as John pulled along side. He lifted his visor and climbed off, already reaching for his cell phone. "Oh, thank god! I thought we were dead!" a female voice shouted at him through the storm. John surveyed them. One woman about mid twenties, and three younger ones.. teens. They all wore..... whatever they were, they were woefully inadequate. The girls seemed to be on the edge of sleep. A bad sign. John checked on their necks for pulses. Faint. Skin way too damn cold. Even under the clothing. The one who had talked, hugged him. Shivering with the cold. Her fingers in her armpits up to that moment, and soon afterwards. "Lets get you out of this!" John yelled to her. He guided her back into the shelter and pulled out the phone. "Hello, John? I can barely hear you." Cindy answered. "Cindy, just listen. You and Theresa suit up as fast as possible and get out here. Bring as many coats and blankets as you can find. Hand the phone to Sheila while you do it." John said. "You found people?" Cindy asked. "Four, frozen stiff. Now move it. Put Sheila on." John said. A moment later Sheila's voice came on. John shouted out for her to run some cooler water into the hot tub. "Get it down to about eighty to eighty-five." he shouted. "Wouldn't it be better hotter?" she asked. "No, chill blains. It'll be hard enough to take eighty. Please, just do it. And get together more blankets and the med kit from just inside the Com room." he shouted. "Will do. Cindy want's to know how she and Theresa can find you." Sheila asked. "Have them follow my tracks. They shouldn't be too far covered yet. But tell them to hurry. These folks won't last long the way they are." John said. "I will....(John says to follow his tracks, and hurry!) " John heard. "Tell them to check their gas tanks!" John shouted. "(Don't forget to check the tanks!) Okay John. I'll do as you say. Do you want me to hang on?" Sheila asked. "No... I'd better do what I can to get these folks warmed up!" John said. The line went dead. Sheila not knowing if John had simply hung up. She hung up her end and set about her tasks. First she ran to the kitchen and poured a thermos full of coffee. Then ran to the entrance to find Cindy and Theresa suiting up, a pile of coats and blankets with them. She pulled on her own coat and some boots and hauled some of the stuff out to the shed. She checked the tanks and got the two machines started and moved out for the girls. They came along carrying their loads. Sheila found some cargo nets and helped them tie them down. A short hug later they roared out into the storm. Sheila lost sight of them almost before the gate. She headed back inside to fulfill her duties. John pulled the two hand warmers out of his pockets and stuffed them into the clothing of the girls. Their hands grasping at them. He pulled out the others and ripped them open. Shaking them to get them started. They wouldn't be warm for a few minutes. He gave two to the older woman and then stuffed the rest into anyplace they would fit. The older lady shivered and grasped the still cold hand warmers. Not understanding their function, but seeming to understand that the stranger was trying to help. John knelt before them. He unzipped his suit and pulled the sleepiest one up against his body. Pulling her bare arms inside his suit. She was hardly responsive. The others huddled together waiting. A few minutes later John passed the first girl to the older woman and pulled another to him. He was on the last one when the dim glow of two headlights pierced the storm and two more engines were heard. John passed the last girl to the huddle of the rest and jumped up to flag the girls. They almost ran over him before they saw him. John instantly was at the bundles of coats and blankets. He carried one load back to the girls while Cindy and Theresa, freezing themselves, carted the other load over. Cindy carried a thermos. John first got a coat onto the older woman. She was grateful, but John waved off her thanks as he worked to cover as much flesh as he could. There were a total of five coats. He got one on the top of each, then pulled the other two onto the legs of two of the girls like pants. They all wore simple tennis shoes, wet. Next he covered them all with the blankets while he took their shelter, the toboggan, and hitched it to the back of his machine. He lay blankets into it. Theresa getting the idea and taking over the task. John returned to the girls and tried to force a few sips of hot liquid into them all. The older woman grasping at the cup with freezing fingers. John picked up the sleepiest one and carried her over to the toboggan. He lay her in it and then found some bungies and tied her in with the blankets layered over her. Cindy was trying to get the rest of the hot liquid into the other girls when John came back. "Let's use the cargo nets to tie the two other young ones on the back of yours and Theresa's machines." John shouted to her. She nodded. She got Theresa seated on her machine and helped John tie the cargo net around a girl and then around Theresa. Wrapping a blanket around the girl behind, beneath the net. Her arms stuffed inside. She was in no condition to hang on. She huddled against Theresa's back. "Get her back as fast as you can. We'll get the rest!" John shouted to Theresa. She nodded and slowly took off. Balancing herself and the girl behind her. Next John had Cindy mount up and he wrapped a blanket around the other girl and used the cargo net to tie her to Cindy. She headed off as soon as he tapped her on the helmet. Next John took the remaining two blankets and wrapped them around the other woman. "I have nothing to tie you on with. Can you hang on?" John shouted to her. She nodded. John climbed onto his machine and she climbed on behind him. The hand warmers were starting to work. Clutching one in each hand she wrapped her arms around John. He used the double zipper on his suit to create an opening for her hands. Tucking them inside his suit. He kept an eye over his shoulder at the sled as he started back. He remembered to plug in his helmet. A voice found him almost instantly. "John, do you read?" Theresa's voice hailed him. "Just starting out. How about you?" he broadcast. "Just passing through the gate." she replied. "How about you Cindy?" John asked. No reply. "Cindy, do you read?" Theresa called. No reply. "She might not have her helmet plugged in. Just get that girl inside as soon as you can. Don't wait for me. Take her straight down to the hot tub." John said. "But what about Cindy?" Theresa asked. "She's between us. I'll see it if her tracks vary. Now get inside." He answered. "Okay, just pulling up. Sheila's coming out to help." Theresa said. "Good. John out." John said. He kept an eye on the depressions ahead, they didn't falter as they weaved back towards the compound. He kept turning back to be certain the girl was still on the sled and her arms were in. Once he had to stop and stuff one back into the blanket. When he finally reached the gate a voice came on the intercom. "John, this is Cindy. Just going in now." she said. "I'm at the gate, don't wait for me." he replied. "Okay, out." she said. Sheila waited as John pulled up. She guided the older girl into the silo while John unstrapped the girl on the sled. He hefted her and made his way to the hatch. She was like a sleeping child in his arms. He was worried. The hatch opened as he reached it and Sheila helped him inside. John didn't put her down. The older woman stood huddled in the blankets just inside. "Bring her." John stated as he headed for the elevator. Sheila guided the woman, who was hampered in her walking by the coat around her legs. Sheila stooped and hefted her into a fireman's carry. The woman complacent to her actions. "Did you get the water cooled down?" John asked Sheila in the elevator. "Yes... barely. I still don't understand. What are chill blains?" she asked. "When you get too cold, even cold tap water can feel like boiling water on your skin. I think you could even raise blisters from too warm water." John explained. "I never knew that." Sheila said. "Comes from being a kid where it snows." John said. "That explains why I never knew it. I spent very little time playing in the snow." she said. The elevator reached the gym and John carried the girl to the tub. The girls already had the other two almost undressed. "Don't worry about that. Just get in." he told them. He climbed in himself, suit and all and slowly lowered the girl into the warm water. She whimpered as it hit her skin. Only when he had her into one of the seats did he climb out and unzip his suit. Cindy hefted another of the girls and climbed in with her. She whimpered as well, but not as bad. Theresa took the last, who was almost nude and climbed in with her suit still on. Pulling it off when she had the girl seated. Sheila had seated the woman and pulled the coat from her legs. She didn't seem as bad and she removed the coat from her top. Gasping at what the woman wore. Then she guided the woman to the tub. John, wearing only his underwear, guided her to the bench seat. "You okay?" he asked. She nodded as she sat back in the warm water. "Turn the heater back up." John called to Sheila, climbing out. She went to the controls and adjusted them upwards. It would take awhile for the water to re-heat. "Medical kit?" John asked. Sheila nodded to a table by the tub. John opened it up and drew out a blood pressure band and a stethoscope. He climbed back into the tub and moved to the first girl. Stripping the coat off her and tossing it out. He put the cuff on her arm and checked her blood pressure. He reached out and killed the bubble pump. A deafening silence followed. Finally he lifted his head and took off the cuff. Next he moved to the girl Cindy was holding and finally to the one Theresa looked after. Lastly to the woman sitting on the seat. He lifted her arm out of the water while he put on the cuff. "How are they?" she asked. "Better. They'll be okay." John said, between readings. "You'll live too." he said finally. "Now, what the hell were you doing out there?" he asked her. She looked up at him. She had piercing brown eyes. Her brown hair short and straggly on her head. "Getting away." she said, dropping her eyes. "From whom? No, save it. When you've warmed up and have some food in you. We've got time now. Nobody's going anywhere tonight." he said. He turned to the first girl he had carried in. He checked her eyes and skin. He then reached into the water and removed her burlap dress. Checking her all over. Rubbing her limbs with his hands to stimulate her circulation. She seemed asleep. Smiling slightly over his rubbing. Cindy and Theresa followed suit. Removing the last burlap dress and tossing it out. "What can I do?" Sheila asked. "How about some food?... wait! You're dry?" John asked. Sheila nodded. "Fully dry?" he reiterated. Again she nodded. "Then if you could, move at least one of the snowmobiles into the shed. We may need it if she doesn't respond by morning." John said, nodding to the first girl. Sheila nodded and headed for the elevator. Cindy and Theresa had stripped off their suits and the rest of their clothing. They cradled the girls in their arms. John looked back and forth between them, then to the first girl. "I'll be damned.... Triplets!" he said. The woman looked up at him and nodded. Then returned to her thoughts. Cindy and Theresa each looked at the girl in their arms and then the other two. They smiled as they each saw the same thing. The girls were blonde, with short cropped hair. Almost boyish short. They seemed to be about 110 lbs. each. Maybe sixteen at most. They had perfectly matching smallish breasts, perhaps a B-cup. On the ends of all six breasts were perfectly matching dark brown nipples. All firmly erect. Below the water they each had a bushy blonde patch of pubic hair. Or each surmised. They still retained their panties. John guessed them to be about 5'4" tall. The older woman, perhaps all of twenty-five. She was about 5'5" and 120 lbs. A little better built than the triplets. Perhaps a C-cup. Her brown hair also boyish short. Her face.... cute, but scary. These girls had been through something very traumatic, and not just the cold. "So what is this place." she asked, meeting John's gaze. "My home. My name is John Stevens. This is Cindy and Theresa. The other woman is called Sheila." John said, nodding towards the girls in turn. "I'm Candice." the woman said. "One question, Candice. Any chance anybody was following you?" John asked, concerned. "I doubt it, why?" she asked. "Well, I'm concerned about Sheila. She's out there alone right now. Should I be concerned about that?" he asked. "No... I don't think so. We only had the one machine." Candice said, looking back at the water. "Okay.. unlikely anybody was able to follow you right away on foot. At least not tonight." John said, thoughtfully. "Get warm. We can talk later. Theresa, if she can sit in the seat, why don't you see if you can rustle us up some warm grub? Hot soup and sandwiches." John asked, climbing out. He began to gather up the coats and snowmobile suits. Theresa sat her triplet into one of the formed seats. She clung to her neck a bit as she pulled away. Theresa hugged her back reassuringly and climbed out. She found a towel and made certain that there were lots of them. "Cindy, would you watch over them? I'm gonna get these drying in case we need them tomorrow." John asked. Cindy nodded, cradling her triplet to her like a child. The girl clung to her neck as she slowly warmed.