Wherefore Art Thou
written by:
Wilderness

Wherefore Art Thou

Gloomier about the Christmas holiday than usual, Brian picked out toys for his niece and nephew and then checked them off the ‘Santa's list' that his sister kindly provided.

‘Thirty years old and I'm out buying presents for other people's kids instead of my own. What's my problem?'

All he ever wanted was a family like the one he grew up in -- a couple of kids, to remind him how all things old become new again, and a wife, with whom he could stay forever young. The simple life he once took for granted now seemed impossible to achieve. Meeting women was easy. Meeting a woman that clicked with him physically and emotionally was not. Maybe the problem was all him. Maybe his standards were too high. But he knew that kind of woman existed, because he met her once. Unfortunately, she slipped through his fingers.

Brian's mind wandered back to last April, the first day of the fourth month. Ironic how one of his finest memories occurred on April Fools' Day...

After four hours of mind numbing technical seminars, Brian headed up to his hotel room.

A frantic voice, yelling, "Hold the elevator!" snapped him to attention.

Brian panicked, as he searched for the ‘open door' button, hoping not to disappoint to the attractive woman he glimpsed through the shrinking crack.

Finally smashing the correct button with the heel of his palm, the doors reopened.

"Thanks a lot. I am so late for a job interview. My flight was delayed. They lost my luggage. If the rest of the day goes like this, I've wasted a lot of time and money."

While catching her breath, she smiled at him, like it was all a big joke.

Brian returned the smile. "I hope this begins a streak of good luck for you."

Her face reddened, and she turned to watch the digital floor numbers. "Sorry, I'll shut up now."

"Don't be sorry. This is the most excitement I've had all day."

The doors opened on the third floor and Brian stepped off.

The woman's cheerful voice said, "That's too bad. I'm glad I could entertain you, at least for a little while."

Brian looked back to see her grin disappear between the stainless steel panels.

Two hours later, locked in his sterile hotel room, Brian couldn't concentrate on paperwork any longer. The tingle of attraction from the brief elevator encounter haunted his thoughts. He decided to sit in the lobby and wait. Maybe he'd get lucky, and have a second-chance encounter.

At 6:35pm the elevator-cutie entered the hotel lobby and walked to the front desk.

Brian got up and strolled over to a brochure rack, just to be within striking distance.

He overheard the desk clerk say, "I'm sorry Ma'am. Your luggage hasn't arrived yet."

The woman groaned with disappointment, and said, "Okay, thanks."

She walked away and entered the gift shop. Brian followed at a discreet distance and watched her rummage through a stand of tee shirts.

Picking up a random magazine from a nearby display, Brian made his approach. "Hello, again."

"Oh, hi!"

Her enthusiasm giving him courage, Brian smiled back and introduced himself.

"Nice to meet you, Brian. I'm Lucy, Lucy... Nordstrome."

They shook hands and continued to grin.

Brian broke the silence before it became awkward. "How'd the interview go?"

Frowning, Lucy answered, "Probably not my best first impression. I was a bit frazzled." She shrugged, trying to act unconcerned. "How was the rest of your day? Any more excitement?"

He shook his head. "Nope, no more excitement. Very boring, actually." He sighed and did his best to look pitiful. "But circumstances have recently improved -- dramatically."

They exchanged another smile and a hint of blush colored her cheeks.

"Lucy, can I buy you a drink?"

"Really?"

"Sure. It'll be fun. They have backgammon. Would you like to play a game or two?"

She looked at him quizzically. "You must be desperate -- to ask a woman."

Knitting his brow in confusion, he asked, "Why?"

She looked pointedly at the magazine he'd grabbed from the rack. "The Advocate is not typically a straight man's periodical of choice."

"Oh... no!" He put it back like it burned his fingers. "I'm not gay! It was a mistake."

She laughed. "That's a relief. I thought I'd lost my sense of attraction. I could've sworn you were flirting with me."

"Was I flirting? I didn't think I knew how."

"That's the best kind of flirt," she said, with a wink.

"I think you're teasing me, Lucy."

"Maybe." She took his arm and led him from the gift shop. "I'd be delighted to beat you at backgammon. But first, I need something to eat, or I'll faint."

Her body felt electric against his hip and her perfume contained hints of a secret garden. "Well then, let me buy you dinner, too."

"No! That wouldn't be right. I've practically invited myself."

"It would be my pleasure. These seminars are as dull as infomercial reruns. You'd be doing me a favor."

They walked silently linked for a few steps before she said, "I don't usually do this sort of thing, Brian."

"What sort of thing is that? Eat? Or eat with men? Lucy, are you trying to tell me you're a lesbian?"

She giggled and squeezed his arm against the side of her breast. "I meant that I don't make a habit of letting strange men buy me dinner. But I'll make an exception tonight, because I think we both need some adventure after a long and frustrating day."

Lucy's openness ignited celebratory skyrockets in Brian's head, and her physical contact ignited him in other places long dormant. "Great! It'll be my pleasure, and I'll try not to be too strange."

Approaching the restaurant entrance, Brian gestured with his arm, and politely said, "After you." He followed her slim body through the maze of tables to an empty booth in the back.

Lucy slid onto the bench, giving Brian a nice peek at a shapely thigh.

She grabbed the menu from behind the ketchup bottle, and quietly said, "I'm dying for a thick slab of meat between my buns."

Brian's head snapped up. "I'm sorry. What was that?"

"I said: I'm dieing for a thick slab of meat between two buns. You know... like a hamburger?"

The way she grinned, Brian wasn't sure if he'd heard right the first time or not. "Whatever you want is fine with me."

"You're easy, Brian. You'd better be careful. I might take advantage of you." Her eyes returned to the menu, but the sly grin remained fixed on those inviting lips.

"Hmm, that sounds like a good thing."

She didn't look up, but those lips separated into a brighter smile.

When a toe brushed across his shin, his voice cracked, as he said, "I think I'm going to have fish tonight."

"Mmm, I like the sound of that, too." Lucy put down the menu and looked around the room. "I love to travel. I feel free to do whatever I want. No one knows me. I can pretend to be a totally different woman for a little while. Do whatever turns me on."

Before Brian could respond, the waiter appeared and poured water. "Are you ready to order?"

Brian felt a foot briefly rub the side of his calf, as Lucy said, "Why don't you order for me."

"Okay...let's see." He quickly scanned the burger section. "The lady will have the... Lumberjack hamburger platter -- no onions."

Lucy winked at him.

"How would you like that cooked, Ma'am?"

"Medium well, please."

"Would you like cheese on that?"

"Swiss."

"Thank you. And for you, Sir?"

"I'll have the haddock dinner."

The waiter listed the side dishes and salad dressings, and Brian selected.

"Anything to drink?"

"Do you like beer, Lucy?"

"Yes, I do, especially with a burger. If only there was a football game on." She sighed.

"Yeah, right."

"No, really. I love football."

Tom just smiled with disbelief and ordered two bottles of Sam Adams from the selection.

After the waiter departed, Brian rested on his elbows, and asked, "What kind of work do you do, Lucy?"

She looked left and then right, before whispering, "Counter-espionage. That's all I can say without killing you." She leaned forward. "See the bald man over there in the striped shirt?"

Brian gave her a crooked grin and began to turn his head.

Quickly, Lucy's hand reached out to touch his cheek. "No, don't look. He might get suspicious."

"Oh, I see how it is. I'm just being used as cover for your surveillance operation." Brian took her hand and brought it to his lips. "I'll play the part of your devoted boyfriend."

Their eye's locked, as he kissed her fingers.

"Good idea. You're a natural. Have you done this kind of work before?"

Letting go of her hand, Brian leaned back. "I've played the part of a boyfriend, a few times."

"Not recently?"

"It's been a long and lonely year."

"That's good," she said, looking pleased by his loneliness. "In this line of work, it doesn't pay to make long term commitments."

"You mean espionage?"

"He's looking this way." Lucy placed both of her hands palms up on the table. "Hold my hands, Lover-boy."

"I've been promoted to lover, already?" The hands were warm and delicate in his. "It must get lonely, in your line of work."

"Sometimes. But once in a while I meet a handsome man, like you, to help take the edge off."

Brian laughed. "I'm just another in a long line?"

Lucy ‘s face colored. "No... Wow, that came out wrong."

To change the subject and ease her embarrassment, Brian said, "So, what's this guy done? Is he dangerous?"

The beers came and Lucy took back her hands. "Nothing yet, but he's known to associate with disreputable characters," she said, and then took a swig from the bottle.

Brian hoisted his longneck in salute. "Sounds like someone I'd like."

She choked out a laugh and wiped her lips with the back of her hand. "Thanks for the warning."

They sat quietly for a while, sipping their beers.

Brian had high hopes for later. Hopes that included spying a naked woman. But he didn't want to ruin his chances by assuming Lucy had the same idea. All the signs pointed to ‘yes'. But maybe the flirtation was just an incentive for him to buy her dinner. Time would tell.

Lucy whispered, "He's leaving."

Brian turned to look, and the scruffy stranger caught him. "What'll we do?"

"You blew it, Sherlock." Lucy shook her head in disgust, tipped up her bottle, and drained a third of it. "My cover has been blown." She slipped out of the booth, saying, "I'll go to the ladies room and make a phone call. Someone else will have to pick up his trail."

"Sorry."

"Don't worry about it. Order me another beer, please?"

"That's the least I can do."

Lucy smiled and squeezed his shoulder as she walked by. "The night is young."

Anticipation swelling his libido and constricting his throat, Brian watched her walk away. Lucy's blazer covered her derriere, but her calves flexed nicely above the black high heels. He guessed her barefoot height around five feet seven inches, a perfect height for kissing in any position.

Before disappearing through the bathroom door, Lucy glanced back and smiled.

Shortly after, the waiter brought bread and salad. Brian ordered two more beers.

Afraid that his date would come to her senses and sneak away, Brian sat sideways to keep an eye on the Women's room.

When she came out, there was no sign of hesitation as she headed back to their table, only signs of inebriation. Wandering through the table maze, her steps appeared a little ragged. Apparently, drinking on an empty stomach went straight to her head.

Several other heads turned to watch her pass. Brian experienced a rush of macho pride, and savored the rare moment of being envied by other men. Then, he noticed her newly opened blue blazer and the sheer blouse underneath, unbuttoned to reveal a lacy camisole. Was the blouse unbuttoned like that before she opened her blazer? Certainly she wouldn't go to a job interview so exposed.

"See anything you like?" asked Lucy, sliding onto the cushioned bench.

"Well... as a matter of fact, yes." Why beat around the bush? "You are very sexy, Lucy."

"Thank you, Brian. You're pretty cute yourself." She removed her blazer and laid it on the seat. "Is it hot in here, or is it me?"

"Definitely you."

She smiled and leaned forward, pressing her chest against the table. Cleavage -- smooth and creamy -- bulged invitingly. "You're sweet."

"You're a tease."

Women did not flaunt themselves at Brian. Suspicion crept in and dampened his lust.

Obviously sensing his mood shift, Lucy picked up a slice of bread and buttered it. "I'm just having some fun. Relax. I won't bite."

But do you suck, he wondered. "Sorry. You're so far out of my league it makes me wonder, ‘Why me'."

She took a pensive bite of bread, chewed a few seconds, and said, "Why not you? You seem to be a very nice man -- attractive, intelligent, successful, and polite. Women love that."

"I must be meeting the wrong women then."

"Must be." She winked, leaned over the table, and offered him a bite of her slice.

"Thanks." He took it, and boldly enjoyed the view.

"I always take care of my counter-espionage partners."

The thought occurred to Brian that he was the one taking care of her, by footing the bill. Then her foot rubbed his calf, reminding him to relax and go with the flow.

The food and beer soon arrived, and he focused on eating those, instead of her.

"Mmm, this is delicious. Thank you," said Lucy, through a mouthful of meat. "I was starving."

"My pleasure," said Brian, hoping it would lead to a greater pleasure. But he wasn't the kind of guy to pressure a woman. Then again, maybe that's what women want, a little manly aggressiveness. He slipped off his shoe and rubbed her calf.

Lucy nearly choked.

"Sorry," he said, putting his foot back where it belonged.

She laughed. "It's okay. You just surprised me. I hope you know the Heimlich maneuver."

"I do."

He sawed off a piece of haddock and offered it to her, making her lean over to retrieve it. As she wrapped her lips around the fork, he added, "I'd be happy to give you a private maneuver lesson, later on."

Caught off guard once again, Lucy snorted. She didn't offer a response, but he saw possibility in her playful glance.

Seconds later, she said, "That was good."

He didn't know if she meant the haddock or the come-on. Afraid of being disappointed, Brian didn't ask.

Lucy polished off her second beer.

"Would you like another?"

"No thanks. Two's my limit. I'll just drink water."

"Counter-espionage agents have to be on their toes?"

"Something like that." Her toe rubbed him up to the knee. "I always want my partners to know that I'm capable of making rational decisions."

The foot rubbed his inner thigh, and Brian said, "Good point. I'd want you to have all of your faculties in a tight situation." The foot slipped slowly back down. "And you're right. It is hot in here."

They ate silently for a while. Her toes remained against his calf, teasing now and then.

"Where are you from, Lucy -- when you're not spying?"

"Chicago. How ‘bout you?"

Tom glanced at her, trying to hide his surprise. He was from Chicago, too.

"I'm from Duluth." It was wrong to lie, but he was afraid she'd balk at screwing around if there was a possibility they'd run into each other later. After all, she said she didn't want attachments.

"Is Duluth nice?"

"It's okay, but nothing like Chicago."

"You've been there?"

"Many times. I love it."

"Next time you're there, give me a call."

"I'll do that." He waited, but no number was offered and he didn't ask. Tonight was all about fun and no commitments.

Lucy became quieter, as the food disappeared.

Brian's lack of conversational skills chewed away his confidence. "Are you a Bear's fan, Lucy?"

"Oh, yeah. Da Bears were great this year. I can't afford season tickets, but I go as often as I can. Are you a fan?"

"Big fan. I can remember the 1985 Bears. Walter Payton, Jim McMahon, Dent -- it was a great team."

"Those were glory days, for sure. They're on a comeback." Lucy took the last bite and sat back. "I'm stuffed."

Brian put down his fork and drank the last of his beer. "No room for dessert?"

"No way."

Brian caught the waiter's eye with a raised hand.

"Yes sir?"

"Check, please."

After the waiter left to process the bill, Lucy said, "I need to check on my luggage. I'll meet you in the lobby -- if you don't mind."

"Are you sure? Wouldn't you like to play some backgammon?"

"No, I need some fresh air. Would you walk with me?"

"Sounds like a plan," said Brian, wondering if she'd really be in the lobby.

"Great. Meet you out there," she said, sliding out of the booth.

Stopping beside him, Lucy leaned down and kissed his cheek. "Thanks for dinner."

"You're welcome."

Lucy put the blazer back on as she walked out, covering the slim waist and hips that swayed in time with Brian's heartbeat.

The waiter seemed to be torturously slow. Brian had to force himself not to run out of the restaurant. His anxiety proved to be unfounded. Lucy stood by the front door, staring out into the night, with no luggage.

"Still nothing?"

"Nope." She smiled weakly. "Guess I'll have to make do." Lucy pushed open the door and stepped outside.

Brian followed. "What do you need? The hotel will provide you with a toothbrush. If I have anything you can use just ask and it's yours."

"Thank you. You're sweet," she said, but didn't ask for anything.

The air was chilly, as they walked silently side-by-side along the parking lot.

Lucy folded her arms over her chest.

"Cold?"

"A little. The fresh air is nice, though. Spring always smells so clean."

"It's all that new life starting to grow." He put his arm around her. "Do you mind?"

"Not at all. You're warm," she said, pressing against his side and placing her arm around his waist. "Spring is my favorite season. What's yours?"

"Spring too. It's like new love -- ‘O, how this spring of love resembleth the uncertain glory of an April day!'"

Lucy stared at him, perplexed.

"Sorry. Just quoting a little Shakespeare." He squeezed her in a sideways hug.

As they strolled she laid her head on his shoulder, and whispered, "Wow, I've never met anyone that quoted Shakespeare. I like it."

Feeling the moment was right, he said, "Lady, you bereft me of all words. Only my blood speaks to you in my veins, and there is such confusion in my powers."

She giggled softly and then turned her face up towards his. Their eyes met briefly, and then hers gaze slipped down to contemplate his lips.

"Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind." Brian eased his lips to Lucy's. When they met, she sighed. The kiss lingered long enough for Brian to embrace her fully -- one hand around her back, and the other cradled her cool cheek.

When he edged away, Lucy's lips followed a brief distance. Her hands rubbed his back. Seductive eyes opened like hot coals, their intensity warming his face.

"That was very nice, Brian. You're a good kisser. I bet Shakespeare was a hit with the ladies, as well."

"I don't know. But he sure knew how to write about love." Brian began to walk.

Lucy hooked his arm and turned him back toward the hotel entrance. "It's too cold out here, and I really need a shower. I wish I had some clean clothes to change into."

"I have an idea. Come up to my room," said Brian, holding the front door open for her. "I have a sweatshirt and sweatpants you could borrow. What's mine is yours." And what's yours is mine, he hoped.

They were halfway to the elevator when Lucy let go of his arm, and said, "Okay. But first, let me stop at the gift shop and get a few personal items. I'll meet you up there."

"Sounds good. It'll give me a chance to pick up the room. I wasn't expecting company."

Brian gave her a little wave goodbye, strode to the elevator, and pushed the button. The doors opened immediately. He stepped inside, pushed the number 3 button, and then spotted Lucy staring at him. She was grinning and shaking her head.

The doors were almost closed, before she said, "Room number?"

"Three-fourteen! Three-fourteen!"

"Thank you."

"I'm an idiot," he said to his stainless steel reflection. "Real smooth."

Once inside the room, Brian quickly picked up the debris field of seminar litter, soda bottles, and dirty clothes. By the time there was a knock on the door, the room looked as if the maid just left.

"Who is it?"

"Agent 99."

"What's the password?"

"Shakespeare."

He laughed, opening the door. "I hope nobody followed you?"

"I rode up to five and walked down the stairs to make sure," she said, stepping inside.

"You're funny. I like you."

"I like you too."

Brian closed the door and latched it. "Better safe than sorry."

Lucy smiled and dragged her fingers down his arm as she walked by and into the room. Looking the place over, she said, "Did anyone sleep here?"

"What can I say? I like to keep the place neat."

"I guess so." Lucy poked his side, and said, "Are you sure you're not gay?"

"I'm sure." He took her gently in his arms. "I'd be happy to prove it."

"Whoa, Big Boy!" She broke away and moved in between the two beds, while rummaging inside the bag of her newly acquired personal items. "I already believe you. The proof was in the kiss. Unless you were thinking of someone else, like Brad Pitt?"

"No, I was definitely thinking of you, Lucy."

"Darn! I forgot to get shaving cream." She looked at Brian, and then rubbed his cheek. "Feels too smooth for an electric razor. Do you have any shaving cream, and may I borrow some?"

"What's mine is yours." And what's yours is mine, he hoped again.

"Great! Is it in the bathroom?" she asked, walking in that direction.

"Right on the counter."

"Okay. I won't be long," said Lucy, entering the bathroom and closing the door. The sound of the shower spray began a few seconds later.

Brian arched his brow in surprise. She's taking a shower here? "I think what is hers will be mine," he said, grinning. This was too good to be true.

Brian took the clean sweatshirt and pants out of the dresser drawer and laid them on the spare bed. Then, after grabbing the TV remote, he flopped onto the uncomfortable chair in the corner and turned on the news. Hatred, war, and death always seemed to be the top stories.

‘We are definitely on the eve of destruction. I'd better start enjoying life, before it's too late.'

He began to channel surf and stopped on a National Geographic program about Yellowstone National Park and the geothermal geysers. ‘I bet I could be like Old Faithful tonight, and erupt every 90 minutes.'

The shower turned off and a few minutes later the bathroom door opened with a gush of steam. Lucy emerged from the cloud wrapped in a towel while drying her hair with another.

Nonchalantly, she walked between the beds again and turned toward the TV screen. "What's on?"

"Yellowstone geysers."

"Cool."

Brian took the opportunity to study her exquisite legs. "No. Hot, actually."

"That's true." She laughed, but did not turn to catch his eye.

Brian had the impression that she wanted him to check her out without feeling self-conscious.

"Your sweats are on the bed."

"Great! Thank you."

He stood up, walked over, and handed Lucy the remote. "My turn to shower."

Stepping close, he looked into her expectant brown eyes and saw nervousness, but not rejection. "Eyelash," he said, and lightly brushed one from her cheek.

Lucy blushed, but held his gaze.

Brian turned away, headed toward the bathroom, and asked, "Agent 99, Will you be here when I get out?"

"Of course. Don't worry, Agent 86. I've got your back."

Closing the door behind him, he said, "I was hoping you'd want both sides."

Her warm laughter only encouraged his lust and increased his shower speed.

Afterwards, he quickly shaved for the second time that day. Then brushed his teeth, while appraising his reflection. The extra effort to stay in shape had paid off, even if it didn't show under his street clothes. When at work, he appeared the typical geek. At play, he was an outdoorsman. This hidden persona gave him a Clark Kent / Superman appeal that his last girlfriend enjoyed. He'd never tried to exploit his physique, until now.

With just a towel wrapped around his waist, Brian walked out of the bathroom and into the bedroom.

Right away, he noticed the heat had been turned up. The room was well above 70 degrees. Lucy was lying on the bed closest to the window and watching TV with her head propped up by two pillows. The sweatshirt was so big that the neck opening had fallen off her right shoulder. No bra strap in sight. Her raven hair was nearly dry, and it fanned out across the pillow.

"My clothes look good on you."

She gave him a quick double take and smiled. "All nice and clean?"

"Uh-huh."

Brian sat on the bedside and put his hand on her bare foot. "What's on now?"

"The Weekend Gardner."

"Yeah? Do you like gardening?" Brian asked, as he lay sideways across her shins and began to massage her feet.

She sighed appreciatively, and said, "I do. But I don't have a yard. So, I'm just living vicariously."

Silently, they watched the mustachioed man on TV fertilize his vegetable patch, while Brian became intimately acquainted with Lucy's toes.

"You have nice feet."

Lucy wiggled her toes. "You have nice hands."

He turned to observe an expression of complete relaxation on her face. The navy blue sweatshirt outlined the swells of her breasts and a hint of the erect nipples that capped them. "Is it hot in here, or is it you?"

She laughed softly and closed her eyes. "Any piece of clothing can be sexy with a quietly passionate woman inside it. That's a quote from O magazine. It's not Shakespeare, but it's true."

Pushing one pant leg up above her knees, and then the other, Brian said, "Here's a good Shakespearian quote: Our bodies are our gardens to which our wills are gardeners," and then began to massage Lucy's left calf.

"Mmm, that is a good one."

Brian continued to massage a few minutes and then switched to the right calf. "Lucy?"

"Yes, Brian?"

He stretched out beside her and leaned over to look into her hooded eyes. "May I tend your garden tonight?"

She smiled, and then pursed her lips and wrinkled her brow in thought. After long seconds she answered seriously, "Hmm... Well, maybe... If I can tend yours."

"It's a deal. Let's have a garden party!"

She laughed girlishly, as Brian suddenly hugged and kissed her. The laughter quickly melted into passionate sighs and moans of pleasure, as their bodies made contact.

Lucy's hands roamed down Brian's back to his bottom. The towel offered little resistance to her probing fingers, and soon they were underneath, massaging bare skin.

Brian took that as a positive sign and slipped his head down while edging her sweatshirt up. "Nice jewelry," he said, spying a belly button ring and then flicking it with his tongue.

"Thanks," said Lucy, raking her fingers through his hair.

Quickly, Brian was losing self-control. He wanted to be slow and patient, but his senses had been on fire for hours.

As he nuzzled higher across the flat plain of her tummy, Lucy's moans increased. Her abdomen clenched from the attention. She seemed to share his impatience.

Plowing ahead, he pushed the shirt up higher to expose the bottom edges of her breasts and kissed the upward curve of each.

"Oh, Baby. That feels so nice." Her fingers teased his ears and shoulders, but offered no guidance.

Sensing she wanted him to take control, Brian growled his satisfaction. "Lucy, you feel a lot more than nice," he said, grabbing the bottom of the shirt and lifting it to expose her chest.

Her nipples were taut and her ample chest heaved with excitement.

"You're beautiful all over." Instead of holding back and gently teasing each breast, Brian dove down, sucked one nipple, and groped the other breast. His free arm snaked beneath and pulled her tight, lifting her off the bed.

"Oh, God!" Lucy grabbed the back of Brian's head and arched into him, giving him clues that said, ‘give it to me, fast and hot.'

He put her down on the mattress and yanked off the sweatshirt, while continuing to suck from one nipple to the other.

When Lucy's hands were free from the sleeves, they immediately tugged on Brian's towel.

Keeping his face and hands busy with her breasts, Brian lifted his hips.

She quickly stripped the towel away and gripped his erection. The audible moan articulated her delight with its dimensions and she began to stroke him quickly.

Turnabout is fair play. So, Brian shoved a hand into her pants and palmed a shaved pussy.

Her hips thrust against it, asking for more.

Afraid that he might spend too early from her persuasive caress, Brian pulled away and got off the bed.

Lucy groaned her disapproval.

"I believe in ‘ladies first'." Brian said, moving to the foot of the bed. He then grabbed both of Lucy's pant legs, and easily tugged the sweat pants off.

The naked woman laughed at the ceiling and then rose up on her elbows to look Brian up and down. "I can't remember when I've wanted a man more than I do right now."

"You don't know how good that makes me feel," said Brian, gripping her ankles and dragging her hips to the edge of the mattress.

Kneeling down, he placed her legs over his shoulders. "You smell finger licking good, Juicy Lucy." Then he spread her lips and kissed her pussy with an open mouth.

After a loud affirming squeal, she said breathlessly, "You're right, I don't know how good that makes you feel. But I know how good you make me feel, and I want to return the favor."

No words were exchanged for a few minutes, as Brian tongued, kissed, and sucked on the smoothest pussy he'd ever eaten.

Lucy was wet from the start and he had no problem plunging two fingers in and out. When her hip gyrations seemed out of control and her chest turned a rosy pink, he knew a climax was close at hand. To take her over the edge, he began to rub her clitoris with his thumb.

Soon, a final, "Oh, God!" squeaked from her lips. Her body tensed and then convulsed in orgasmic release.

He continued to gently toy with her clit, wringing out every last skimmer of sensation, until she pushed his shoulders away with her feet.

Brian put down Lucy's legs and sat above her on the bed. He pulled her up so that her back was against his chest. "Your garden makes a great meal, Luce. Thanks," he said, and then calmly kissed her shoulders and fondled her breasts, helping her to revive.

A short while later, Lucy said, "Wow, that was amazing." And tipped her head back.

They lingered in romantic kisses, until Lucy wiggled in his lap, and said, "Something's poking me."

"I think it's my plow."

"Oh! Let me see." She turned over and kissed down his chest and stomach.

He felt her breath on the crown of his penis, when she said, "You have a big plow, Agent 86." Then, a moist heat enveloped it.

"You're like Miracle Grow, Agent 99."

Her lips rose and fell with increasing vigor.

Then Brian had a better idea. "Agent 99?"

She stopped long enough to say, "Yes, Agent 86?"

"Let's make Agent 69."

She laughed, and swung around to straddle his face. "How's this?" she asked, looking at him from between her legs.

"Perfect. I just need to get the pillows right... There we go." He pulled her down and planted his tongue in her furrow.

"You go, boy," she whispered, and then her lips were too preoccupied to do anything but moan and hum.

At an increasing rate, Brian's efforts overwhelmed her senses. Occasionally, she'd stop sucking and just stroke him slowly, until the quivering sensations passed. He didn't count, but Lucy was incredibly orgasmic and it turned him on all the more.

Soon, he felt the stirrings of his own release growing. "Lucy, I'm close."

The declaration fired her up. She licked his glans eagerly and then sucked each testicle gently. "Come on, Baby. Come on."

His hips began to thrust involuntarily, as she urged him to come. "That's it. Ooo, you're so hard. I love the feel of you. Give it to me, Baby."

The climax rose suddenly. Powerful wave after wave erupted. His hips arched with primal impulse.

Lucy groaned at the first potent release and wrapped her lips around his tip. Her tongue laved his tingling flesh. Her fist pumped furiously, drawing out each successive blast, until none remained.

They both collapsed, exhausted.

A minute later, he drew her into his arms. Their naked bodies pressed tightly.

"Thank you, Lucy. That was fantastic."

"This night alone made the trip worth the plane fare." She smiled sweetly, and then leaned in.

He kissed her forcefully.

At first she acted surprised, as if he wouldn't want to kiss after coming in her mouth. She quickly relaxed and returned his passion in kind.

Lucy eventually rolled over and they spooned, quietly.

Brian wasn't ready to call it a night. Old Faithful had not erupted near enough. "Lucy?"

"Yes, Brian?"

"I'm surprised you swallowed. That was unexpected. Thank you. Most women don't -- at least not the first time."

"Well, Honey. You've made today special for me, so I wanted to do something special for you. Actually, it turned me on to do it."

"I hope it's not over."

She laughed. "Men! They're never satisfied."

"Oh, I'm satisfied. But we click. Everything with you seems natural, like perfect harmony, like a fine duet. That's rare, and I don't want it to end."

"I know what you mean," she said, and kissed his hand that rested on her breast. "Honestly? I'm not ready for it to end, either."

"You're welcome to spend the night."

"We'll see."

Brian kissed Lucy's neck and tickled her ear with his tongue. "I'll just have to make it worth your while to stay."

She giggled in a way that only made him want to try harder.

"Are you thirsty, Luce?"

"A little."

He jumped up and began putting on the sweats he'd taken off her. "What kind of soda do you like? I'll run out to the machine at the end of the hall."

"A coke would be fine."

Grabbing the ice bucket, he said, "I'll be back," and then went out the door.

A few minutes later, Brian was back with sodas and an assortment of candy bars, which he laid on the bed for her inspection. "What can I say? I have a sweet tooth."

After he'd left the room, Lucy had slipped under the sheet. Sitting up to inspect the booty, she modestly held the white linen against her chest. "You bought a Mounds bar!" She grabbed it and lay back down.

Grinning, she asked, "Do you like Mounds, Brian?" while slowly dragging the sheet from her chest.

"Oh yeah! Love'em. In fact, I'd say they're my favorite snack."

"Let me show you the best way to enjoy them."

Lucy unwrapped the two chocolate covered coconut confections and held one in each palm. "First you have to soften them up." With an impish grin, she made two fists, crushing and grinding the small bars.

"Then you..." She opened her hands and smeared the gooey remains over her breasts, leaving a generous portion atop each nipple.

Brian laughed. "Amazing presentation, that's very important in fine dining. Is this your version of, ‘the way to a man's heart is through his stomach'?"

She licked a palm, and said, "Actually, I was thinking of another organ of the male anatomy."

Pulling off his sweatshirt, Brian sat down. "Well, it worked. Whatever I have is yours." He brought her hand to his lips and sucked each finger clean. Gradually, he washed both hands spotless with his lips and tongue.

Lucy said, "Now I'm a little hungry." She swiped an index finger over her chocolate breast and painted Brian's left nipple. Pulling him down to her lips, she teased him much longer than the flavor lasted.

"Now I'm starving," he said, breaking free.

He lay on top of her. She parted her legs, allowing him to assume the missionary position. Through his pants and the sheet, Brian rubbed against her a few times, and then began the titillating pleasure of cleansing her chocolaty chest. The patience he'd lost earlier he now reclaimed. With deliberate nipple avoidance, each breast was thoroughly savored.

The relentless teasing had its effect on both of them. Lucy kept maneuvering her chest, trying to get the erogenous contact she wanted, while Brian skillfully dodged.

Finally, she grabbed his ears, and said, "You're being mean." Then pulled his head down, and raised her breast toward his lips.

"You're right. I am." When the offered nipple was within a fraction of his lips, he said, "Mean people suck," and then he did.

"Yes," Lucy hissed, as Brian engulfed the coconut-encased nub. The swollen candy center didn't melt in his mouth, but her body molded itself against his.

"Delicious," he said, before taking the other nipple.

Pulling the sheet away, Brian twiddled her most responsive delicacy.

A few seconds later, Lucy exploded. She wrapped her legs around his hips and ground against his trapped hand until the waves receded.

Her legs fell limply off, as Brian sat back on his knees and enjoyed the view. "I don't think I'll ever enjoy a candy bar as much as this again."

"Me either," whispered Lucy.

Brian went to the bathroom and returned with a warm, damp, washcloth. "Allow me," he said, and washed her chest and hands.

Lucy slowly rubbed his forearm. Her eyes were closed and her face peaceful. "Thank you."

He laughed, and said, "Believe me, it was my pleasure."

"My throat is so dry."

"Well, after all that moaning and groaning, I'm not surprised. I'll get the sodas."

They sat quietly side-by-by side, sipping their drinks for a few minutes. The new television show about installing bathroom tile was not inspiring conversation, but neither seemed interested in changing the channel.

This erotic encounter gave Brian a new confidence. For the first time in his life, he felt desirable and potent. A one-night stand certainly boosted the ego.

He looked over at Lucy. She stared blankly at the TV screen, and seemed subdued, almost withdrawn.

"Regrets?"

"What?"

"Are you sorry... you're here?"

She set her plastic cup on the nightstand and then rolled against his side. "I'm someone else tonight. Tomorrow, I'll be myself again with no regrets." Her hand slid up Brian's thigh and fondled his penis.

He took one last sip and put his drink down. "That sounds like a good plan, Agent 99."

Lucy rolled on top of him and they embraced.

Kissing and caressing one another soon had its effect on Brian.

Lucy pushed his pants down to mid-thigh and began to rub her dampness up and down the underside of his shaft, while he teased her breasts.

It wasn't long before Lucy pumped wantonly, working toward another release.

Brian felt the pressure building again.

Whether it was planned or accidental, she slipped higher on his cock than before, and his tip wedged invitingly at her entrance. Without a second thought, Lucy pushed back, forcing him inside.

They both groaned with combined pleasure.

Brian briefly thought ‘condom', but Lucy didn't seem to care, so the concern quickly evaporated with the heat of her friction.

She began to ride him hard, bouncing her bottom and grinding their hips together.

Brian reached between them with one hand to tease her clitoris while his other hand alternated from breast to bobbing breast. He arched up on her down stroke, making a fleshy drumbeat as they met.

"Lucy, I'm--"

"Me too." She moaned and pumped faster.

Brian came first.

A second later, Lucy thrashed in release and then collapsed onto his chest.

Wrapping his arms around her, Brian rolled them over.

They smiled at one another and kissed, as he lazily thrust into her for as long as his cock remained stiff enough.

Grabbing tissues from the nightstand, Brian said, "Thank you, Lucy. That was amazing." He gave her some tissues and pulled out.

Lucy got up and headed for the bathroom. "It was amazing. Thank you for being so giving. Most men are not."

After Lucy came back to bed, Brian made a trip to the bathroom.

When he came out, the lights and the TV were off. He felt his way back to bed in the dark and slipped under the covers, pleased to discover her skin was still bare.

They cuddled each other to sleep.

At 7:00 am the telephone rang with Brian's wake-up call.

After setting down receiver, he realized the other side of the bed was empty. Disappointment doubled when he didn't find a note with her phone number.

As he packed for an early flight, he discovered the sweat pants and shirt he'd offered to Lucy were gone. It pleased him to know she had taken them.

When he checked out at the front desk, Brian said, "I'd like to leave a note for Ms. Lucy Nordstrome."

The desk clerk frowned at his computer screen. "I'm sorry, there's no Nordstrome listed. What is her room number?"

Frustrated, he cursed. He didn't even remember what floor button she'd pushed when they first met. ‘I'm an idiot.' He picked up his room receipt, and said, "Never mind."

Once Brian arrived home, he came to the conclusion that ‘Lucy' had been just a moment's pleasure, a walk on the wild side, at least for him. Then why did he think about her so often?

Brian smiled as he picked up the Lego Safari box, the last toy on the list. He thought about the fun he'd have with his niece and nephew on Christmas day. The miracle of the season was easier to believe when seen through children's eyes.

Wrapped in the warmth of a reminiscent glow, Brian walked quietly through the drafty parking garage, until a woman's scream jarred him back to reality.

He ran down the ramp to the next level, and spotted a man trying to wrestle a purse away from a pregnant woman, but she was not giving up without a fight.

Brian yelled as he ran. "Hey, you! Stop!" He pulled out his cell phone and bluffed. "I called the cops."

Before Brian reached them, the mugger shoved the woman down and escaped in the stairwell.

He bent over the woman. "Are you all right, Ma'am?"

She struggled to sit up. Disheveled hair obscured her face. Cradling her swollen belly, she said, "I think I'm having a contraction!"

That voice! The sweat suit she wore. It couldn't be. "Lucy?"

"O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?" She looked up and smiled, as tears ran down her cheeks. "I think you're just in time to meet our baby."