~CRIMSON SNOW~

CHAPTER 5 and 6 of 9

FOR DISCLAIMERS SEE CHAPTER 1

Jody stood in the room that Claire had converted into a fairly decent art studio. The psychologist smiled when she saw Claire's 'invention' for drying Amanda's watercolors propped up against the far wall. The attorney had purchased a piece of sheet metal that Wednesday morning, roughly the size of a double bed, and had covered it with a soft, thin cloth. Fastened to the 'board', as Amanda called it, by magnets, were several paintings in various stages of completion. The board allowed her to work on one picture, while an oscillating fan was drying the others. The pull of the magnets was just enough to keep the paper smooth and wrinkle free. It was a simple gesture by Claire but Jody knew just how much little things like that meant to her business partner.

Jody stepped closer to admire the half-finished works of art. Her eyes drifted to the upper right hand corner of the board where a painting done by Claire and Missy was on permanent exhibit. Jody squinted. She couldn't tell who had painted what. Either Claire's an idiot or Missy's a genius. Jody liked both options.

The wavy-haired brunette let out a long-suffering sigh as she clenched a fist. Then she unclenched it and shook it out. I shouldn't have hit Mark so hard. Shit. I shouldn't have hit him at all. Just like Papa, get mad and hit.

The therapist's temper was like a comet -- explosive and scorching -- but it burned itself out quickly, leaving her plenty of time to regret whatever stupid course of action she'd chosen in the heat of the moment. Now was one of those times. She was still angry, to be sure, but she'd stopped seeing red the moment she walked out of the room. Jody sat down heavily on a loveseat in the corner that had been covered with an old pale blue, paint-stained sheet.

Mark, you should have told me, dammit. What kind of future could we have together if you don't trust me?

"Hi." A blonde head poked into the studio. "Can I come in?"

Jody shrugged one shoulder and Amanda immediately entered the room, plopping down next to her friend. They both remained silent for several moments, enjoying the easy camaraderie and the momentary lull in conversation.

The larger woman turned to face her business partner. "Amanda, I don't think we should recommend that game to our patients," she offered wryly.

Jody's comment caused a giggle that the younger woman was unable to censure. Reluctantly, she let the grin that was itching to show itself appear. "No, we probably shouldn't."

Amanda shifted and with her fingernail began scraping at a rough stain on the sheet that she suspected was dried brownie. "That was a surprise, huh?" It wasn't really a question. Both women could tell by the other's reaction that they had been caught off guard.

"Yeeahh," Jody drawled exaggeratedly. "You could say that."

"Are you ever gonna speak to Mark again?"

"I'm still thinking about it. How about you?"

"Yeah, I’ll probably speak to Mark again."

"Smartass!" Honey colored eyes rolled and Jody groaned. "I meant Claire."

Am I? Amanda swung her head back and forth as if deciding. Ahh. Gumby, you make me so crazy. "I guess... I mean... I suppose since I'm crazy in love with her, and since I'm not willing to give her up over something that happened fifteen years ago, I'll have to forgive her. But I intend to make her suffer for a while first."

Jody's expression turned serious. "The sex happened fifteen years ago. The lie happened every time they should have said something but didn't, and that wasn't fifteen years ago. But I do agree about the suffering part."

The blonde hung her head and let out a long, controlled breath. God, I hate it when she's right. Amanda was more hurt than angry and she suspected that no matter how Jody behaved, she felt the same way. "You're right. They should have said something. I'm not making any excuses for them."

"Do you think it happened just that once?"

Amanda's eyes widened. She hadn't even considered that they might have had an ongoing affair. "Shit! Why'd you have to say that?" The smaller woman felt the tendril of jealously that had been licking around the edges of her heart, take a firm grasp. She felt sick.

"PUHLEEZZ! Don't tell me you've never wondered about those two?"

"I mean... sure but not... Why would I wonder about them? They're just friends like we are. We've never slept together," she offered lamely, already anticipating Jody's counterstrike.

"But I'm not gay."

"But Claire is."

"That didn't stop them the first time."

"But..."

"And that doesn't change how Mark feels about her."

For a long second, that remark shut Amanda up. Mark's crush on his best friend was obvious. The fact that Claire had expressed a clear preference for women bolstered Amanda's security in their relationship, but putting herself in Jody's shoes, Amanda was forced to admit that Jody had it much worse.

"Jody, we both know they love each other." But I know in my heart, Claire loves me the way I love her.

The brunette grunted her acknowledgment and tilted her head toward the ceiling as she closed her eyes. I know he loves her.

"But loving someone and being 'in' love with someone are two totally different things, and it's not Claire that Mark is 'in' love with." I hope this is the right thing to do 'cause she needs to hear this now, not later. "He's in love with you."

Jody whipped her head around and stared at her friend. "How can you be sure?" she whispered, looking more upset than she had since storming out of the living room. The doubt in her voice broke Amanda's heart.

I should have let her kill that son-of-a-bitch Chester for planting all these ridiculous insecurities in her head. She covered Jody's hand with her own. "His eyes light up when he talks about you. It's obvious to anyone who bothers to look."

Jody's shoulders slumped forward and she looked away. "Oh."

"Jody?"

"Yeah."

Sorry, Mark… "He told me that he loves you."

"Really?" Years dropped off Jody's face, making her look like a wide-eyed child who wanted desperately to believe in Santa but knew it was a lie.

Why hasn't he told her? "Yes, really," Amanda affirmed in a tone that broached no disagreement. "Jody, I know you're mad about that whole game thing, but that can't be everything that's upsetting you. What is it?" Amanda coaxed, knowing something had been on her friend's mind for a while now.

Jody tilted her head back and closed her eyes again. She wanted to talk, but the vice-grip on her chest was making it impossible to speak. After several moments where neither woman made a sound Amanda tried again.

"It can't be that bad," the blonde encouraged.

"I'm pregnant."

Amanda's jaw dropped, and then a surprised smile lit up her face. "What?! Jody, that's... Why that's..."

"And I'm thinking about not having the baby and I don’t want to tell Mark about it."

Amanda's initial joy at her friend's news deflated like a balloon full of buckshot. Whoaaaa... "I see." Amanda hoped her voice projected a neutrality she didn't feel. She sat there for a moment… stunned. Screw being neutral! "Jody, that's the stupidest idea you've had in a long time."

Jody reached up and rubbed her temples in an attempt to forestall the killer headache that was on its way. "I know," she answered flatly.

"You don't look so good." Even with the light off in the studio, it was clear that Jody's face was pale. Amanda removed her hand from her friend's grasp and pushed aside a tuft of wavy bangs to lay her palm on Jody's forehead. The skin that should have been warm, especially considering Jody's emotional state, was cool and clammy. "Are you sick?" she asked worriedly.

"I've felt a lot better," Jody moaned and covered her eyes with her hands. Even the movement of the shadows was beginning to make her queasy.

Amanda stood up and reached out for her friend's hand. "C'mon, we're going upstairs so that you can lay down."

Jody opened her mouth to protest.

"Shut up and don't argue with me. And don't tell me you feel 'fine' because I'm not in the mood for anymore half-truths!" Amanda winced as soon as the words left her mouth. Shit. Why don't I just kick her while she's down? The hurt look reflected in sad brown eyes made the blonde feel even worse. "I'm sorry. I'm not mad at you. I promise. It's just..."

"Everything?" Jody supplied.

"Yeah, everything," Amanda sighed. "Things didn't exactly go as I had planned tonight... except for me pigging out on Chinese food. I always plan to do that."

Jody smiled weakly and stood alongside her friend. "Is your guestroom ready for a guest?"

Amanda returned her friend's smile, relieved that her harsh words had been forgiven. "You bet. C'mon." The shorter woman grabbed Jody's hand and began tugging her out of the room.

When they reached the top of the stairs, Amanda stopped in front of her bedroom. "Just a sec." She ran inside and opened one of Claire's drawers, pulling out a practically unused, soft cotton nightshirt. She stifled the urge to bring the fabric to her nose, knowing it would smell like roses. God, I'm pathetic. Even when I'm furious at her I'm attracted to her. What's wrong with me?

Next, Amanda moved into the bathroom where she pulled a new toothbrush from the medicine cabinet and began rummaging through a large assortment of pain relievers. Can pregnant woman have aspirin? Does it even matter if she's not going to...?

"Tylenol... I can have Tylenol." Amanda jumped a little at the voice that appeared out of nowhere.

The younger woman nodded. "Can you have something to settle your stomach? You look a little green around the gills."

"I think I'll be fine once I lie down."

Amanda raised a questioning eyebrow but Jody nodded indicating she was sure. "Okay, lets get you into bed."

Amanda clicked off the light and led Jody to the room across from Missy's. Before entering the guestroom, she pushed open the little girl's door to check on her daughter. As she suspected, Missy was curled up in a ball, sound asleep on the floor. The toddler had graduated from a crib to a bed a couple of months before, and somehow she always seemed to end up on the floor by morning. Well, at least she’s not naked.

Jody watched fondly as Amanda picked up the sleeping child and deposited her on the bed. Amanda pulled up the Rug Rats sheet and comforter, settling them tightly under the little girl's chin before laying Missy's Elmo doll on the pillow beside the messy blonde head. The therapist placed a gentle kiss on her daughter's cheek and moved across the hall to join Jody.

"Here." Amanda tossed over the nightshirt. "Put this on and get into bed. I'll get some water so you can take the Tylenol."

I guess I'm staying. Jody knew better than to argue with Amanda tonight. She could tell her friend was on her last nerve and she didn't want to be the straw that breaks her back. Jody knew her own temper was bad, but her business partner tended to let things build until she exploded in a sustained fury that made everyone around duck for cover.

When she finished undressing, Jody slipped on the nightshirt and crawled into bed, pulling up the soft warm quilt with a quiet sense of relief. Before she could get comfortable Amanda reappeared wearing her own flannel jammies and carrying a glass of water.

Jody gratefully accepted 3 tablets and large gulp of water. She wasn't surprised when Amanda crawled into bed next to her.

Jody turned to face her friend. "Are we having a slumber party?"

"Why not?" I'm not in the mood for the company downstairs. They can just wait. "It's been a while since I've had a sleep over of the platonic variety." Amanda rolled onto her stomach and propped her chin up on her forearm. "Spill it. And I mean all of it. I've got all night."

Jody scowled. "There's not much to tell. I assume you're familiar with the birds and the bees."

Amanda narrowed her eyes. "Jesus, could you be more difficult? That's not what I meant and you know it. I take it this was unplanned?"

"No, Amanda, I've always dreamed of getting pregnant, keeping it from the father and then not having the child," Jody said sarcastically. "I listed it as a goal in my high school yearbook."

Amanda silently counted to ten. Just like Claire. Why do I do this to myself? "Okay. It was a stupid question. Suppose I start off with something a little easier? How long have you known?"

Jody's voice suddenly sounded tired. All traces of her earlier sarcasm had vanished. "I went to the doctor about two weeks ago, but I suspected for another week or two before that."

Amanda's eyes bugged out. "Why didn't you say anything sooner?"

"I... I... shit. I don't know. I needed some time to think about what I wanted to do."

"And this was the great solution you came up with?"

"I shouldn't be anyone's mother."

"Since when? And why not?" Amanda asked reasonably. "You're wonderful with Mark's sons Bobby and Keith, and with Missy. You'll make a fantastic mom."

That can't be true. "That's not true. Chester always used to say..."

"What does that asshole have to do with this?" The words were still hanging in the air when Amanda felt a horrible weight settle on her shoulders. "Please tell me this baby is Mark's and not Chester's." PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!

Jody looked at the other woman as if she'd grown a horn out of her forehead. "Are you insane? I wouldn't let that pig touch me with a ten foot pole."

Whew! Thank you. "You had me freaked out there for a minute." Amanda rolled to her side and let out a shuddering breath. "Who cares about anything that idiot ever said. I know for a fact you'll make a good mother." What else aren't you telling me? "If anything happens to Claire and me, you're the person I want to take care of Missy. You know that, right?" She lightly slapped Jody's arm. "You agreed to that even before her adoption was even final. Why is this so different?"

"It just is."

"Jody..."

"Man, you're annoying!"

"Lucky for you! No one normal would put up with you! Now spill it."

Damn! "Okay, for starters, I'm not sure that I even want kids or that I'm capable of raising them without totally screwing them up. My first reaction when things go badly is anger and violence." Brown eyes brimming with tears met Amanda's. "You saw what happened tonight. What if I do that to a child? I couldn't live with myself if I..."

Amanda held up her hand. "Whoa, just a minute. Have you slapped Mark before?"

Jody shook her head 'no'.

"And what about Chester?" Amanda drew out his name like it was a curse.

The brunette shot Amanda a knowing look.

"Okay... Except for when we caught him with 'Ms. Teen Queen' and, I shouldn't say this, but he totally deserved that." A faint grin tugged at the blonde's lips. "When I finally pulled you off him and convinced you to go outside..." Should I tell her? What the hell. "I kicked him in the... well... let's just say his eyes are probably still watering," she admitted sheepishly.

Jody laughed a little, despite the serious nature of the conversation. "I know all about that." She sniffed. "He threatened to have you arrested for assault during the divorce."

"What?" That bastard! "You never told me that."

Jody rubbed her hand along the familiar quilt, knowing it was one Amanda had brought with her from her condo. "He was just bluffing, I didn't think it really mattered. And no, other than that one time, I never hit Chester." Though God knows I wanted to.

Amanda sobered. "So what makes you think you'd hit a child? You've never hit Missy, have you?" She asked the question fully knowing what the answer would be.

"Of course not! I'd never hurt my buddy. I love her."

"But you'd hurt your own child?"

"Maybe." Now the tears began in earnest but Amanda remained silent letting Jody speak at her own pace. "I'm not sure," she finally whispered in anguish.

Amanda swallowed hard, holding back her own tears. She needs me to listen and not start bawling, the younger woman admonished herself.

"Have you ever met Mark's parents?" Jody asked in what appeared to be a manic change in subject.

Pale brows knitted together as Amanda tried to figure out where Jody was leading. "No." Why are we talking about Mark's parents? "But Claire says they're really great."

Jody nodded, her warm tears tracking down the sides of her face. "They are. It's like he's part of a damned Norman Rockwell family. They all get along and have family picnics and parties and they all get together at Christmas. They really love each other."

Jody used her index finger to impatiently wipe away a teardrop from her chin. "After you guys left the hospital last week I called his parents and they were at the hospital within fifteen minutes. They sat with him the entire day and by that night, I'd met three of his brothers and two of his sisters."

"Mark's really lucky," Amanda admitted, hoping she could give Missy a small piece of that. "How many brothers and sisters does he have?"

"I'm not sure. I think his parents stopped counting after six or seven kids."

Jody cleared her throat, not really wanting to continue but knowing it was for the best. "My parents really loved me too. But they were so strict." Her voice had dropped to a barely audible whisper. "'Spare the rod and spoil the child'. If I heard that once I heard it a thousand times. I was literally 'afraid' to disobey them or to have an opinion that was different from theirs."

With sickening clarity, Jody's reluctance toward parenting was starting to make sense. "They beat you?" Amanda asked astonished, feeling the body next to hers stiffen immediately.

Jody's parents had been killed in a car crash several years before the women met. Jody spoke fondly of her younger brother and sister but that was as much information as she’d ever provided about her family.

"No... Yes..." How can I explain this? "We were disciplined with a belt, but it was never done without a reason. The actual whipping wasn't the bad part. The real problem is that it was done as much to humiliate and put us in our places as to punish us for misbehaving. They were oppressive without meaning to be."

There's never a reason good enough to do something like that. "I'm so sorry." Amanda scooted over and gave her friend a hug, which Jody eagerly returned. "You're afraid you'll do the same things your parents did?" she hazarded after giving Jody a few moments to compose herself.

"Partly. Even though my parents were too strict, I know they loved me. They did the best they knew how." Jody wiped her eyes again, wishing she had some tissues. She tilted her head to the side and looked hard into deep green eyes. "Amanda, I can't be perfect like Mark's family… I don't even know how to be like that. I don't know how to make cookies and I don't want to quit my job to stay home and... I... I would end up disappointing Mark, and myself, and if things don't work out with Mark... I... I don't want to raise a child alone."

"Stop right there." Amanda pressed two fingers against Jody's mouth. "No matter what happens with Mark you would never be alone," she reminded, a little insulted that Jody would think she would offer anything less than her full support. "I will always be here for you, just like you've always been here for me." And so would Claire although you're not ready to hear that yet. If I thought you really weren't going to keep this baby, I'd offer to take it myself.

"You're a great friend, Amanda. I'm surprised you haven't offered to take this baby yourself." Damn, if you were a man I'd have snatched you up years ago. Her headache was starting to subside and some of the horrendous stress she'd been feeling was beginning to fade. Things never seemed so impossible after she talked them through with Amanda.

Busted. "Would you say 'yes' if I offered? You know, I’d love to have another baby and I'd love it like my own."

"I know. But that would never work."

Amanda bit her lip, knowing her friend was right. "What about Mark? You can't honestly believe that he expects perfection. He's been dating you all these months and unless I'm mistaken, you’ve been less than perfect up to now." Aww... C'mon, Jody. "Look at the wonderful job he does with Keith and Bobby. I've never seen a better father. His kids are normal, great, peanut butter in their hair, skinned knees, sometimes-obnoxious little kids. They’re anything but perfect."

Jody groaned and brought her hands to her head. "You won't believe the mess I've made of everything. I'm surprised he can even look at me. A few months ago when I could tell he was getting really serious about our relationship, I panicked and I told him, in no uncertain terms, to back off. And every time he tries to edge his way back, I push him away. I think he's about ready to give up. I know I’m throwing away happiness and I can’t seem to stop."

Amanda felt the darker woman’s forehead again, relieved at the warm healthy feel of the skin. "Why are you telling me this? You should be talking to Mark. Give the man a chance. He's a sweet guy who doesn't seem anywhere close to giving up." Amanda could see still wasn't getting through to Jody. Stubborn!

"Jody, he's not Chester. It's not fair to make him pay for another man's mistakes."

"That's not what I'm doing," she replied defensively.

"Yes, it is."

"No it's..." Am I? Jody shook her head as if she couldn't believe it herself. "Is it?"

Amanda shrugged. "You tell me."

And she did. For the next two hours the two friends laughed, cried, and discussed the fears and joys of parenting and being in a committed relationship. They were surprised and comforted to find that their concerns largely mirrored each other.

Jody’s shared some details about her childhood, some bad but mostly good. And Amanda confided that she wanted to discuss having another child with Claire and her own insecurities regarding what her lover’s reaction might be. The talk left them both feeling better and especially gave Jody some much-needed perspective.

The brunette sat up and stretched her shoulders. "I can't believe I'm really pregnant. It even sounds weird just to hear the words."

More confident that her friend was on emotional sure-footing, Amanda let a little of her excitement and natural optimism show through. "I know it doesn't seem that way now, but it really is wonderful news. She smiled brightly, crinkling her nose and the corners of her eyes. "It's about time Missy had a playmate. I can't wait. You know..." Amanda sat up and clicked on the light next to the bed. "...This is an excellent opportunity for you. Mark is gorgeous and intelligent and you're not getting any younger..."

"You just had to throw that last bit in, didn't you? I'm only a few years older than you are," she whined at the much-used tease. Jody tilted her head toward the door. "Do you think they're still here? I haven't heard them for the last couple of hours."

"I'll go check. Do you want me to tell Mark to go home?" Amanda had her fingers crossed.

"Nah. Could you send him up? Now that I've spilled the beans, I might as well go all the way."

Yes! "Great, I'll tell him you're waiting."

"Oh, and Amanda..." the smaller woman paused in the doorway, "...don't be too hard on Claire. I've been thinking... and if it were me, I wouldn't have said anything either." Jody shrugged. "It's a strong silent thing."

Amanda thought about that for a moment. Mark's a fool if he lets you go. Green eyes twinkled. "Just remember you're own advice, mom."

Amanda expertly ducked a pillow that sailed over her head and into the hallway. She stood up, intent on gloating mercilessly, only to be nailed in the face and knocked back on her butt by a second, better aimed pillow.

"YES!" Jody exclaimed in triumph. "You've had that one coming for months! Not bad for a tired old pregnant lady."

"Humph." Amanda smoothed down her bangs, which were now standing straight up. With her other hand she rubbed her sore bottom. She approached Jody menacingly, but then simply deposited the pillows back on the bed. "I'll be getting my revenge in about..." she paused, "...seven months." With that, she retreated downstairs.

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

Downstairs was dark and quiet. Maybe they did take off. But when Amanda turned the corner to the living room she heard a sound as familiar as her own voice. Claire's snoring.

The psychologist perched on the coffee table in front of the two sleeping lawyers and studied them in detail. They were sitting on opposite ends of the couch, facing each other, with their legs tangled together and bent. A woolen throw covered their feet. Mark had his good arm thrown over his eyes and was breathing long slow breaths.

Even now, Amanda found it difficult to hold a grudge against the big man. He was always there when Claire needed him and that alone was enough to garner Amanda's respect and affection. But above and beyond that, she appreciated Mark in his own right. As handsome as Claire was beautiful, he remained largely oblivious to his boyish good looks where most men would have grown conceited. He was a consummate professional, both kind and funny, and Amanda couldn't fault him for his crush on her mate. She wondered if Claire were straight, whether she’d be bold enough to give him a run for his money.

Claire didn't look nearly as comfortable as Mark, who was taking up far more than his half of the couch. Her neck was resting in an awkward twisted position and her mouth was hanging wide open, a thin line of drool trailing down her cheek. One arm was dragging on the floor, while the other was wedged between her body and the back of the couch. She's going to have such a neck ache in the morning.

Amanda leaned forward and whispered. "Claire, you need to wake up." No response. This time she spoke a little louder. "Time to get up." Mark stirred but Claire remained dead to the world. Amanda reached out and gently shook her partner. "Claire."

Sleepy, somewhat startled blue eyes opened. "Hi, Mandy." She's talking to me! Claire noticed the soft flannel pajamas Amanda was wearing and that she looked far more relaxed than when she left to seek out Jody.

"Hi yourself. Jody wants to talk to Mark and you need to move so he can get up."

"Sure, no problem." Claire removed the throw from their legs and untangled herself. "Ouch." She grabbed her neck. My neck is killing me. "Get up, Marko. Time to go get what's coming to ya."

"Claire," Amanda scolded, trying not to smile.

Mark yawned, looking at Amanda. "We kind of ran out of things to say and got tired of waiting for you guys."

"It's okay," Amanda reassured. "It's getting late and you're still recovering. I know you must be tired."

"Where's Jody?" the tall man asked nervously, looking around Amanda as if Jody might pop out at any moment.

Amanda picked the throw up off the floor and folded it into a neat square. "She's upstairs in the guestroom. Why don't you go up and talk to her? She's waiting for you."

Mark nodded. "Right." He gave Claire a quick look as he moved out of the room, receiving the encouraging expression he was hoping for.

When Mark disappeared, Claire focused her attention on Amanda, who was still sitting on the coffee table. She patted the seat next to her and breathed an inward sigh of relief when Amanda joined her without hesitation. Time to face the music. "Am I sleeping on the couch?" she finally asked.

Amanda cocked her head and regarded her partner. "Do you want to?"

"No. I'd rather sleep with you." Always.

I'd rather be sleeping with you too. "Is there anything going on between you and Mark other than friendship?" she asked bluntly, wanting this to be over.

"You mean romantically?" Claire shook her head and tried not to laugh. "Absolutely not. There never really was. " She entwined her fingers with her partner's. "I’m already where I was meant to be. I don’t need to look anywhere else."

Amanda looked at their joined hands and greedily absorbed Claire’s words. In her heart she already knew it was true, but it still felt good to hear it. "Good. Then let's go to bed."

Claire considered her lover’s offer skeptically. "Aren't you going to make me beg and grovel?" She ran her fingers through the soft blonde hair, stroking the tender scalp beneath.

Umm. Amanda leaned into the touch, trying not to purr out loud. What did she say? Oh, groveling…right. "I was planning on it, but I've decided that I'm too tired, so I'm skipping over that step and going right to the forgiving you part." Amanda groaned, thoroughly enjoying the massage. "Don't get used to it."

The lawyer grinned. "I won't," she swore solemnly, crossing her heart.

If I don’t get up now I’m never moving from this spot. And why is that bad again? "C'mon, Gumby," Amanda encouraged. "Lets get go to bed and you can tell me all about this 'first time' with Mark."

Dark eyebrows shot up and Amanda held up her hand. "But please spare me the torrid details. I'm opened-minded, but not that open-minded. The Cliff Notes version will work for me." I don't think I'd survive hearing the juicy details.

Claire wrapped her arms around the smaller woman and nuzzled her neck as she whispered heartfelt apologies, which Amanda graciously accepted. It didn't take long for the nuzzling to turn into kissing, which quickly threatened to lead to something more. Claire pulled away breathless, tingling from the overwhelming rush of longing and affection she always felt with Amanda.

Although it wasn’t fair to her past lovers, the lawyer couldn’t help but compare the few kisses she'd just shared with her partner against anything else she'd ever experienced... with anyone. To say they were pale imitations of what she felt now was being kind. They weren't even in the same ballpark. She felt more than a connection with her partner-- each glance and every touch was a reconnecting of sorts. Deep down there was an elemental part of Claire that only Amanda could touch.

Claire chuckled as she guided Amanda around the coffee table and toward the stairs. "Mandy, we were both seventeen and had too much spiked punch at a high school dance. We had no idea what we were doing. Trust me when I say it was far more embarrassing than erotic. 'Torrid' is not how I would describe it."

Amanda smiled broadly, her white teeth visible even in the darkness. She wasn't sure why something so trivial could make her feel better. But it did. Her heart was still pounding from her lover's touch and the idea of anyone else making Claire feel that same way irrationally bothered her.

She knew they had both been in love before, or at the very least, in lust. But what she felt with Claire was undeniably different. Love and a raw unyielding want merged in a way that left her weak-kneed, and exposed, yet feeling undeniably safe. It was a gift beyond price, borne of a connection beyond her understanding. And try as she may, Amanda couldn't help keep the jealous corner of her heart from rearing its ugly head. "You're just saying that to make me feel better."

"Did it work?" Claire laid a palm against Amanda's back as they blindly navigated the steps.

"Is it true?"

"Absolutely. Sad but true."

"Then it worked."

Before they could turn into their room, a loud thump sounded from the guestroom. "Uh Oh." Claire muttered as she bolted down the hall. She opened the door to find Mark laid out on the carpet... unconscious.

Amanda pushed by Claire and stood in front of Jody who was looking at the man in utter confusion. "You knocked him out?" the younger woman asked, hoping for another explanation.

"I didn’t touch him! Well, I touched him. But I didn’t hit him. I swear! He just... just... fainted!"

Claire stared at Jody for a long second then began laughing as she knelt down to wake her friend.

"What’s so funny about that?" Jody asked, frustration and fear leaking into her voice.

A dark eyebrow lifted but Claire eyes didn’t stray from Mark as she examined the big man’s head. "You’re pregnant, aren’t you?"

Narrowed brown eyes turned to Amanda who threw her hands in the air, shook her head, and did her best to look innocent.

Claire slapped Mark's stubbley-cheeks. "The last time he passed out was when he found out his ex-wife was pregnant with Bobby. He did it again with Keith," Claire smirked. "That time he fell face first into a Tampax display at Cub Foods."

Amanda and Jody laughed as Claire continued to try to rouse the tall man. The lawyer rubbed her jaw speculatively. "It must short-circuit his brain or something." Mark moaned and slowly opened his eyes, his face immediately shaping into a big goofy grin.

Claire felt Amanda’s warm hands on her shoulders and she turned her head to kiss the fingers. Then she offered Jody a heartfelt smile that lit up her entire face, deeply creasing her cheeks. She clasped the chuckling woman’s arm. "Congratulations, Jody. That’s awesome news."

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

"Move your ass, Verna!" the young man called out as he quickly unlocked the door and made his way inside. Lazy bitch, after Christmas her ass is fired.

An overweight, middle-aged woman struggled to get her large frame out of the cramped back of the utility van. "I'm coming, Jimmy," she yelled, careful not to dislodge the cigarette nestled between her lips. "Stupid, pig-headed dickweed," she mumbled. Verna looked around nervously, pulling her sock hat lower over her ears. Where are you? I said 10:30 a.m. sharp.

Jimmy had already gone inside the Easton home and was undoubtedly working on the upstairs bathroom. He followed the same ritual in all the houses they cleaned... upstairs and bathrooms first, then the kitchen, and vacuuming last.

Verna tossed her cigarette on the ground. Her eyes darted back to the house. Screw you and your stupid rules, Jimmy. A little trash won't hurt these rich people. With the toe of her boot she kicked a small pile of snow over the smoldering butt. Tired of waiting in the cold, she picked up her bucket of cleaning supplies and began waddling up the driveway.

"Where you goin', Verna?" a voice called out from behind her.

The rotund woman turned around with a smile that revealed tobacco and coffee stained teeth. "'Bout time you show'd up? I told you exactly 10:30, as soon as Jimmy was outta sight. It's 10:35. You tryin' to get my ass fired from this crappy job?" she hissed. Impatient and cold, she got right to the point. "Did ya bring it all?"

The man nodded and handed over an envelope containing ten twenty-dollar bills.

Verna smiled. Real Marlboros tonight! She reached into her pocket and handed over a key. "No extra charge for me makin' the copy. I tossed that in for free."

Stupid bitch. I ought to kill you right now just to improve the gene pool. "What time will you be finished?" His eyes traveled to the window he knew to be Amanda's bedroom.

"One hour... exactly one hour. I gotta go."

Cory pushed the key inside his glove, enjoying the cool metal against his warm palm. "Good." Without a glance back, he disappeared into the thick layer of trees that surrounded the property.

Verna shivered as he slinked out of sight. Ugh. That fucker gives me the creeps. She stuffed the envelope into her coat pocket and shifted the bucket to her right hand. Oooo baby... Mystic Lake Casino here I come...

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

Cory sat on Amanda and Claire's bed. He had saved the best for last although he still hadn't found what he was looking for. Where are you going, Amanda? Earlier in the month the therapist had rescheduled his counseling appointment that would have taken place next week. You thought you were so clever. But I heard you talking to Jody. I cannot be deceived. You're going on vacation. You thought you could just leave me… that I’d stand for that?

Cory kept getting distracted from his mission. His eyes greedily took in every detail of the room. He pictured himself here with Amanda, living as a happy family. I could make you forget all about Claire and see the error of your ways. In his fantasy, Amanda was properly repentant, serving Him and properly obeying her husband. That's how it was supposed to be! Why did you do this? Why would anyone deny His plan? You were meant for me. But that bitch lawyer ruined it.

Cory had stayed up for hours the night before talking to Him. He'd pleaded that Amanda be spared. Surely, that perverted attorney had enticed her. Amanda can’t really be one of them. But He commanded her death. His will must be done. It doesn’t matter what I want. I serve Him. And he has commanded it be done before the new millennium. I don’t have much time.

The slender man moved into the walk-in closet and clicked on the light. It didn’t matter that he would kill Amanda soon; Cory wanted this time alone with her personal possessions. He pulled a pale blue, soft silk blouse from its padded hanger and fingered the cool fabric. It was the blouse Amanda wore during their first session together. That's when he first spoke to her with his mind. He didn't need to use words. He was the Chosen One and had been given skills above all others.

Cory looked at the clothes with great interest. Half the closet was reasonably neat with the clothes organized by color and type. The other side was a series of unorganized piles and rumpled dry cleaning bags. The dress clothes appeared to be hanging tidily while the casual items were strewn about in total disregard. He looked on with distaste. She doesn't serve you well, does she, Claire? That's because she is not yours. She would serve me. Seeming to ignore that he lived in a pigsty himself, he was appalled by Claire's messy side of the closet. This is unacceptable! He abruptly kicked over one of the piles as he exited the closet and forced his scattered brain back on track. Cory moved over to the computer table in the corner of the room. The table was clean. Dammit. They have a Xerox machine at home? No. A fax machine? YES!

In the paper tray were a map and a message from Iris Parks.

I know it’s been a few years since you’ve made it up
to the cabins, so I though you might appreciate a map.
For some reason it looks different in the winter!
I stopped by the clinic today but you were in with a patient.
I didn’t think I’d get a chance to see you before you left on
Monday (yes, semi-retirement is great!) so I put the keys in the
top drawer of the reception desk. Don’t forget to get gas
for the generators! Have fun and I’ll see you after the
holidays.

Iris

Cory grabbed the sheet of paper and started to walk out of the room, pleased with his cunning and investigatory prowess. He stopped dead in his tracks. Wait. They might notice this is gone. No more mistakes. Cory sat back down at the desk and slipped the map back into the tray. Then he opened the desk drawer and pulled out a blank scrap of paper and pen. He spent the next several moments meticulously copying the map. When he was finished, he crammed his map into the front pocket of his Levis and headed downstairs to make a sandwich, idly wondering if all hunters worked up such an appetite. An odd smile twisted his face. I wonder what I should pack? I’ve never been on vacation before.

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

"I miss her already."

"We haven't even left yet."

"I know. But Missy has," she replied a little embarrassed, a hangdog expression on her face.

"It's okay, you know. I miss her too. It already seems so quiet in here." She glanced around the bathroom. "But I didn't want to drop her off at Mrs. Fisher's so early tomorrow. The poor woman should at least be allowed to sleep past sunrise. Besides, God help her, she'll need all the strength she can muster to watch Missy on a twenty-four hour basis."

Claire's chuckles sent tiny ripples through the hot bubbly water.

Amanda spared an affectionate smile for the lawyer's softer, sentimental side. "Don't worry, Gumby. She loves being with Mrs. Fisher." Green eyes twinkled gently. "I won't tell anyone how hopelessly she has you wrapped around her tiny little finger." Nobody would believe it anyway.

Claire scowled, knowing it to be completely true, but feeling the urge to deny it nonetheless. "She does not."

Pale eyebrows shot skyward and Amanda reached around Claire and grabbed a bottle of shampoo. "Riiiight," the shorter woman drew out the word. "Like I believe that." The psychologist squeezed out a healthy dollop of the cool liquid into her palms and rubbed them together. She sighed, enjoying the hot bubble-filled water and the private time with her partner. "Turn around." Amanda twirled her fingers in a circular motion. "I'll get your hair."

Claire complied easily, stretching her long legs out in front of her.

"This tub was such a good idea," she groaned as her partner's fingers wove their way through her hair and began their gentle scrubbing. Claire scooted back farther until she could feel the increase in water temperature from her lover's body.

Strong hands moved down and soaped Claire's neck and shoulders, digging into the flesh with firm but gentle pressure. "Are you all packed?" Amanda asked, wondering how much longer Claire would allow her hands to roam freely, before losing control and turning around.

"Umm... I am, I think. I'm just bringing jeans and sweatshirts...stuff like that. I even packed some pajamas in case I get cold."

Ten bucks says they never make it out of her suitcase, Amanda wagered herself. Reaching over to a small shelf alongside the tub, she picked up one of Missy buckets and began rinsing off the silky dark tresses with fresh water from the tap. "Same here." The blonde emptied several more buckets before Claire unexpectedly moved away and settled at the opposite end of the tub facing Amanda. Where in the heck are you going? The therapist didn't hide her look of disappointment.

Claire grabbed a bottle of liquid soap. Smiling, she crooked her finger. Amanda grinned wildly and bounded over to Claire like a puppy sloshing through the surf. The blonde placed a light kiss on Claire's lips before turning around, squaring her shoulders, and closing her eyes. This is gonna be soooo good. She absolutely loved it when her partner washed her hair-- probably because Claire was never content to stop with her hair. Every inch of her body was scrubbed and rinsed with loving detail, either leaving her so relaxed she was near sleep or... Amanda smirked. This is better than foreplay. She gasped as warm hands grazed the sides of her breasts on the way to her abdomen. Emerald eyes popped wide open as every nerve in her body stood up and saluted. Amanda moaned inwardly. This is foreplay.

Claire's hands moved to her partner's hips. With a slight tug she pulled Amanda back to rest against her chest, squeezing out nearly every last drop of water between them both. Both women sighed at the familiar but sweet sensation of skin on skin. Claire brought her arms up underneath Amanda's breasts and wrapped her in a warm hug. She rested her chin on the therapist's muscled shoulder. "You're really happy for Mark and Jody about that baby, huh?"

The blonde laid her arms over her mate's and nuzzled the attorney's cheek. Claire's legs were on the outside of hers and Amanda wiggled her toes, noticing they only came to mid-calf on Claire. "You bet I'm happy. Once the shock wears off Jody's going to be fine." She didn't say anything for a few moments. Then she added, "A baby should always be a thought of as a blessing." Amanda felt Claire swallow and nod behind her.

"You should have seen Marko, this week at work. He was walking around like the cat that ate the canary."

"Jealous?" Amanda teased, expecting a laugh from her partner. She didn't get one.

Claire tightened her grip on Amanda and didn't answer for a long moment. Finally, she sighed. Yes. "A little, I guess."

Amanda cocked her head to the side and turned, trying to see Claire's face. "Why?" she asked, curious.

Ask her. What's the worst thing she can say? "Mandy, have you ever..."

RING. RING.

The lawyer groaned loudly. "Let the machine get it." Claire locked her arms around Amanda's mid-riff to prevent her from leaving.

"Claire..." Amanda squirmed, prying her way out of Claire's grasp. "It could be about Missy or one of my patients," she said sternly, slapping the wet forearms.

The attorney released her instantly, opening her arms allowing her partner to exit the tub. Shit, I didn't even think about that... stupid.

Amanda managed to make it to the phone by the sixth ring. She stood shivering and dripping in the hallway for a few seconds, until she felt the warm slightly rough fabric of her bathrobe being draped over her shoulders and an even warmer body behind it press up against her. "Just a moment, Mrs. Clifford." She put her hand over the receiver and turned apologetic eyes on Claire. "It's a patient," she whispered. "I'll be a little while." Amanda brought her hand up to Claire's cheek. "I'm sorry I snapped, Gumby. We'll talk later, okay?"

Claire nodded and quickly disappeared back into the bathroom. Amanda fought the urge to follow after her, not missing Claire's masked but clearly crestfallen expression. "Damn," she muttered.

"What was that, Dr. Greer?" the voice asked.

Amanda frowned, hating the vague unsettling feeling that an opportunity had just escaped her. "It's nothing, Diane." Amanda did her best to tie the robe around herself one-handed and took a deep breath. "What's the emergency?" she inquired calmly.

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

It had taken Amanda nearly two hours to calm her patient, and Claire had long since given up on salvaging the evening. Grumpy and bored, the attorney allowed herself to revel in a little self-pity. She had plans for that bath, and while she wasn't exactly angry with Amanda, she was honest enough to admit she was annoyed.

Amanda lifted the comforter and slid into bed alongside her lover. "Claire?" she whispered, wishing the attorney wasn't facing away from her.

Silence.

Amanda sighed and spooned herself against her partner, absently stroking Claire's fresh-smelling hair. She inhaled deeply. Mmmmm. Amanda wasn't at all tired, and enjoyed a moment of peaceful reflection before deciding to call Claire's bluff.

"I know you're awake," she informed flatly. Ooooo, I hate it when you do this and you know it! Passive...aggressive...

Nothing.

"What? So now you're not talking to me?" Amanda asked incredulously, her frustration mounting. "I wasn't gone that long." While the silent treatment never worked on Claire, it was extremely effective against the younger woman.

The attorney grinned in the darkness. "How do you know I'm not sleeping?"

Amanda could hear the smile in Claire's words and despite herself she smiled in return. "Other than the fact that you just answered my question?" She paused and wisely decided that using the phrase 'incessant snoring' wasn't such a good idea. "Your breathing is different."

The younger woman snuggled closer, fitting her thighs tightly behind her partner's. She felt Claire's surprised jerk at the intimate flesh on flesh contact. Amanda usually wore pajamas.

When Amanda spoke, Claire could feel her warm breath against the nape of her neck. "Sweetheart, I'm sorry that took so long," she apologized sincerely. "It couldn't be helped."

How can I be mad at you for something that I've done myself a million times? "I'll live," Claire replied succinctly. She winced, hoping her words didn't sound as cold to Amanda as they had to her own ears.

You think I wanted to leave that nice warm bath? "You're pouting," Amanda said, slightly amused. "Poor, baby." The words were teasing but threaded with sarcasm.

With effort, Claire bit back the acidic reply that was on the tip of her tongue, and chuckled instead. She's right. "So what if I am?" she challenged without rancor and turned to face her lover with a flashing white smile.

"Ohhh, it's okay if you want to pout occasionally, Gumby." A single finger traced Claire's bottom lip. "You look kinda cute..." the finger gently pulled the lip down, "...when you do that," Amanda finished sweetly.

Claire narrowed her eyes, which only served to make Amanda giggle. "I'm glad you find me amusing, Mandy. I feel the same way about you."

Claire drew her palm along Amanda's ribs causing a hitch in the shorter woman's breathing. "Are you sleeping like this?" Meaning nude.

Amanda nodded. "Do you mind?" she asked innocently, leaning forward until her bare breasts were pressing against Claire's.

An involuntary sigh escaped Claire's lips as Amanda's legs tangled with hers and the blonde moved completely on top of her. Not tonight, Mandy... Claire rolled them both over and tucked Amanda securely beneath her. With a single tug she threw off the comforter, fully exposing them both to the chilly night air.

Dark green eyes widened in surprise. Wow. Then the blonde's low moans were swallowed as full soft lips ravaged her mouth while a solid, reassuring weight pinned her firmly to the bed.

After a moment, Claire pulled back and stared at Amanda. "What? Why did you stop?" Amanda complained, panting. The smaller woman's body was already throbbing with need, a delicious ache settling between her legs.

Claire cocked her head curiously. "I'm deciding," she finally stated quietly. The older women shifted her thigh between Amanda's legs and pressed it snugly against Amanda's center. "Give me a minute."

The blonde groaned as if in pain, the leg between hers only intensifying her need. "Whatever it is can wait. Decide later!" she growled.

Claire shook her head, trying not to smile, and gave her partner her most serious expression. "It can't wait."

Amanda rolled her eyes. "Honey, why don't you let me help you decide whatever it is you're deciding so we can get back to..." she let her voice trail off.

The lawyer remained pensive, then barely adjusted her thigh, sending another wave of sensation tearing through Amanda. Ugh. She's trying to torture me! "Please Claire, I'm really good at deciding things." Especially when I'm this motivated.

Claire leaned in and placed her lips alongside Amanda's ear. "All right," came the smooth reply. When the taller woman began whispering, the warm air sent shivers down Amanda's spine and green eyes fluttered shut.

"I'm trying to decide what I'm going to do to you," Claire purred, pleased when she felt the sharp intake of breath in the body beneath hers.

The brunette swallowed hard and focused on Amanda, trying not to get caught up in her own game. Licking her lips she continued, "I've decided to take you, Mandy." The words were spoken in a way that made Amanda believe World War Three couldn't stop her lover. "But what I can't decide... is exactly what I want do to your luscious body."

"Anything... Anyhow... Anyway..." Amanda whispered breathlessly. She had never been more sincere in her life. Wherever Claire wanted to go, she knew she would willingly follow.

Claire shifted and poured her heart into an achingly tender kiss, temporarily abandoning her plan. She trailed a path of light kisses back to her partner's ear. "I know that, love," she murmured softly.

The older woman bite back a groan when Amanda trailed her hands along the muscles of her lower back in unspoken encouragement for her to continue. God, you know I can't think when you do that! Damn, you play dirty.

Determined hands slid lower and cupped Claire's bottom. With a strong pull, Amanda flattened the leg between hers and wantonly began grinding Claire's hips against her own.

Claire could literally feel her partner's arousal and this time she couldn't quiet her body's innate response as a faint hiss escaped her own lips.

Unseen by Claire, Amanda's mouth shaped a small triumphant smile. Claire's muffled hiss hadn't gone unnoticed. If I'm to be tortured, Gumby, I'm taking you with me.

Claire tried to still her hips but Amanda would have none of it. Finally, when she sensed she was completely losing control, she grabbed her partner's hands and pinned them to the bed. The attorney did her best to ignore the pitiful whimper this action drew from her partner. "Stop trying to distract me, Mandy," she growled. "You always want to talk... well, now I'm talking."

"Smartass," the younger woman mumbled causing Claire to chuckle quietly. Amanda was turned on and frustrated. This woman did not like to wait and Claire knew it.

Claire's next words were carefully chosen and spoken in a deep commanding voice that rumbled its way through Amanda's blood, scattering any designs she may have had of turning the tables on her lover. "One more move like that, Mandy, and I will stop. Completely stop. Understand?" The tall woman let go of Amanda's hands.

Amanda nodded, barely hearing Claire's words over her own pounding heartbeat.

"Good. Now I've narrowed things down to two different paths. Would you like to hear about them?" the voice rumbled in a sensual purr that nearly made Amanda swoon.

Amanda nodded again and silently reminded her disobedient hands to remain motionless. She was still finding it inconceivable that her hot-blooded lover, who could let hours pass with nary a grunt between them, had become chatty... NOW! But she knew Claire was serious and that was all the convincing it took.

Claire lifted her head and smirked at her partner. "I knew you'd see it my way." Leaning close she placed an almost chaste kiss on her lover's lips before returning to her former position alongside Amanda's ear.

"I'm torn really..." she began. "Part of me wants to take you, control you..." Claire snaked her hand between them and firmly grabbed Amanda's breast causing the younger woman's entire body to jerk in response. The move was commanding and powerful and this time Amanda did swoon.

"...feel you squirming..." Claire's thigh made its presence known again between Amanda's legs when she slid it to where Amanda was all fire and liquid, eliciting a loud moan.

"...and writhing..." Claire's other hand found its way between Amanda's legs and purposefully drove forward. Amanda gasped then arched into the touch, her body involuntarily moving in tandem with Claire's erotic words.

"Sweet Jesus, Claire!" she cried out as Claire's hand continued to thrust forward, never stopping the barely audible barrage of 'wishes' that were more like commands in her ear. Amanda knew the words alone were enough to send her over the edge, but in combination with the relentless, masterful touch of her lover, she feared things would be over way too soon. Forever is way too soon.

Unexpectedly, Claire's motion stilled and the lips next to Amanda's ear drew so close that Amanda was certain the words were coming from inside her own head. The tip of Claire's tongue traced the pink ear and she inhaled deeply, relishing the smell of clean sweat, Amanda's shampoo, and her lover's skin– ascent she was sure shewould recognize not only in this lifetime but any to come.

"...and begging...," she whispered hotly.

Amanda opened her mouth. Her immediate instinct was to indeed beg. But a tiny kernel of stubborn pride refused to give in and her mouth defiantly snapped shut. She felt the lips next to her ear curl into a broad smile. Oh God. Wrong move, Mandy! The psychologist's heart pounded in anticipation of Claire's next move, and Amanda was already fiercely regretting her foolish decision against instant surrender.

Claire removed her hands from Amanda's breast and between her legs. The profound feeling of loss jolted the younger woman. I knew it! Shit!

"...and pleading...," Claire continued as she suddenly thrust her fingers forward, and cruelly stopped, allowing Amanda a small sample of what her rebelliousness was costing her.

Amanda's inner war raged. She was teetering on the brink of the climax that she craved. Things had escalated beyond mere want... this was about need.

"...for me to taste you."

Amanda's eyes rolled back in her head as she imagined Claire's hot mouth on her and her composure unraveled like a ball of yarn rolling down hill. She gave the hands she had been fighting to still free reign and they grasped Claire's face, forcing direct eye contact. Blazing emerald met intense azure and Amanda swore she could see an arch of sparks fly between them. "I don't care what the 'other' part of you wants. Choose this and choose it now," she demanded with an incendiary kiss.

Then Amanda gave her lover exactly what they both wanted...her complete and unconditional surrender.

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

The Pathfinder's powerful heater warmed the car to a cozy temperature causing Amanda to shed her heavy coat and gloves and lay them beside her on the supple leather seat. The SUV sped through the lightly falling snow as it crossed the nearly empty ice-covered bridge that traversed the mighty Missipp'. Five minutes more and they'd arrive at Mark’s small home in St. Paul.

"Claire, why don’t you let me drive?"

Blue eyes rolled under thick lashes. "I fine. I'm awake." But an untimely yawn seriously weakened her credibility. I knew I'd regret being too lazy to get up and make the coffee. God, how do people get up this early?

Claire shifted in her seat feeling vaguely unsettled, knowing the reason she looked longing at the conspicuously unadorned steering wheel. Driving is just not the same without you!

"You can take him out, you know."

"What do you mean? Take who out?" She tried for nonchalance. Shit!

Amanda raised her eyebrows causing Claire to scowl. "I already told you I don't think you're insane... at least most of the time," Amanda deadpanned.

"But they'll laugh at me," Claire whined in an uncharacteristically adolescent voice.

"I'll make them stop," Amanda reassured in the same tone she used with Missy.

"Ha!" Blue eyes narrowed. "You'll be laughing the loudest."

"C'mon, ya know ya wanna," the blonde cajoled, enjoying herself immensely.

"Temptress!" Claire shouted and Amanda burst out laughing.

"I've never been called that before," the therapist said as she squared her shoulders, "but I think I love it!"

Claire was indeed tempted. It seemed that every time she got in the car lately someone was with her, preventing her from keeping company with her favorite toy. "Well, maybe just until we get to Mark's place," she relented. The attorney reached into the glove box and began fishing around for her constant driving companion, Gumby. When she felt a cool bendable leg she began pulling him out of the glove box.

"God Dammit, Mandy!" Gumby was wearing a tiny red kimono and a black geisha wig. Thick red lips had been fashioned out of construction paper and taped to his face and white grease pencil covered Gumby's normally emerald cheeks. "I'm gonna kick her ass!" Claire bellowed, knowing only Jody would go to the extra effort of adding big lips in a bid to torture her. Bitch! She knows how I feel about Madam Butterfly!

The month before, Amanda talked Claire and Jody into attending the long, and, to Claire and Jody, extremely boring opera. But Claire had stealthy escaped under the pretense of using the bathroom and had happily spent nearly an hour hiding at the snack bar, talking to its teenage employees. Amanda was livid, and Jody downright jealous.

Amanda slapped her hand over her mouth in an attempt not to laugh. This one is priceless! But a few giggles managed to escape when Claire began tearing off the miniature clothes and cursing over the well-taped lips. Amanda grabbed a Kleenex from the glove box and handed it to Claire, who practically tore it out of her hand and began cleaning Gumby's face.

In less than a minute Gumby was appropriately naked and clean and wrapped around the top of the steering wheel. Another mile or two and Claire's scowl began to fade. Amanda’s eyes widened when the older woman’s face broke into a radiant smile. She suddenly felt very sorry for her business partner. Uh Oh, look out Jody.

Claire’s yawn and deep sigh interrupted her silent quest for suitable retribution. The attorney was exhausted.

Amanda grasped her partner's hand and brought it to her lips, tasting the soft warm skin. "I really don’t mind driving. I’d rather make it to the cabin in one piece," she teased, depositing another delicate kiss on Claire's knuckles.

Who are you trying to kid? You're every bit as tired as I am. But I love you for offering. Mirthful eyes pinned Amanda. "Remind me again why we’re driving around in the middle of the night." The grumpy tone contrasted sharply with the brunette's relaxed demeanor.

The prosecutor was more than ready for a vacation. Amanda had been astonished to find out it had been nearly six years since Claire had taken enough vacation time to make it out of the Cities for more than a day or two. The younger woman had firmly stated that legal conventions and business trips were just work in disguise and didn't count.

"5:30 a.m. is not night…it’s morning."

"Not according to Mother Nature." Claire raised the hand Amanda was still holding and motioned out to the expansive darkness. Then she brought the joined hands to her own mouth and returned the kiss.

The barest hint of a grin told Amanda the lawyer wasn’t really angry about the hour. The blonde smiled impishly and let heavy eyelids slide shut. "You just stayed up too late last night."

"Me?" Claire unzipped her coat and stuffed her mittens in the deep pockets, completely removing her foot from the accelerator as the car passed under an icy overpass. "What about you? I wasn’t up half the night by myself."

"But I’m not complaining." Amanda's face lit up into a delighted grin, as she considered the previous night.

"Wait until your stomach figures out how many hours it is until lunch,"

Claire drawled, only partially teasing.

The blonde snorted, then laughed outright, affectionately smacking her partner’s thigh. "Don't worry, baby." She let her hand linger on faded denim, tracing the firm muscle below. "I never travel without treats." She reached down to her feet and jiggled a large paper sack. "It's a mom thing."

Ebony eyebrows edged up as Claire peered into the dark floorboards, her fingers following her gaze.

Pulling the bag out of reach, Amanda slapped away the offending digits, drawing a playful growl from her lover. "No touching."

"That’s not what you said last night." Claire smirked, enjoying her partner’s endearingly predictable rising blush. The lawyer's hand darted toward the bag once more but Amanda pulled it away just as her fingertips grazed the paper. "Awww... Mandy. I just wanna see what’s inside," the tall woman persisted with a pout.

The therapist looked at her playmate adoringly. You are so fun, she thought with a surprised laugh, loving Claire’s silly side. "Later... it's just junk food. We can get some drive-thru food on the way out of town."

"And that's not junk food?" Yes! Coffee and Egg McMuffins!

"Are you complaining again?" The blonde shot her lover a mock glare, knowing she loved McDonald's breakfasts and couldn't care less about the nutritional value of the food.

"Nope," Claire responded cheerfully, her mood brightening further with the prospect of hot food and even hotter coffee. Huh, I never used to eat breakfast at all. Oh, well... She figured it wasn't really hurting her and she loved the time around the kitchen table with her lover and Missy. Claire rolled her shoulders forward and was rewarded with an audible pop. She'd never felt better, and a little extra time on the Stair Master, and a little (okay, a lot) less sleep, were small prices to pay for a family. My family. She shook her head in amazement as a happy warmth spread through her.

Claire pulled the Pathfinder up the slight incline of Mark's driveway and slid it into 'park'. Gumby was placed back into the glove box without a comment from Amanda, who knew better than to continue to tease Claire about her little green buddy. The two women sat in the car for several moments, talking quietly and waiting for their friend.

"Should we knock?" Amanda eventually asked, glancing at Claire then back toward the darkened structure. A small glowing porch light was the only indication anyone was home.

"I guess." Claire's scrunched her eyebrows together. "I was sure he'd see the headlights. Usually Marko is ready and waiting. He’s never late."

"Well then Jody must be making him nuts." A wry smile split the blonde's face. "She's about as punctual as I am."

Claire returned her lover's infectious grin, silently agreeing on both counts. "What is it with you two...? I..." The attorney stopped mid-sentence when the porch light flickered off and Mark stepped out of the house. The women watched as the big man awkwardly hefted up a medium sized duffel bag and large suitcase with his uninjured arm. Amanda and Claire moved to help, but Mark warned them off with a glare as he headed around to the trunk.

A frigid blast of air poured into the car when the hatchback opened and Mark began adjusting the bags. "I hate winter! Brr!" Claire shook her head, the cold morning air jolting her body awake.

When the second bag settled into the trunk, the back of the Pathfinder lowered under the weight. "Do you think you packed enough, buddy?" We're only gonna be gone for five days, for Christ's sake!"

"Don't start," he snapped. "Dammit." Mark struggled to align the duffel and suitcase, his useless arm adding to his frustration.

Claire squeezed Amanda's hand indicating that the younger woman should stay put while she moved to help her friend. "I can get this." She quickly adjusted the bags until they were lying flat. "Don't worry about it."

Mark nearly barked out a grumpy retort before thinking better of it. It's not her fault my arm is hurt... "Thanks, Claire."

The brunette flashed her childhood pal a sympathetic smile and gave his shoulder a gentle pat, her hand sinking deeply into the soft down coat draped over his shoulders. "It's okay. I know how frustrating it can be. Remember when I broke my wrist in high school?" She shuddered at the unpleasant thought.

Mark pitifully stared at his arm. "This...is...making...me...INSANE!" he whined miserably.

"Hurry it up, guys," Amanda called from the front seat. "I'm freezing!" The therapist looked at her watch. "We're gonna be late picking up Jody."

"No you're not," came the contrary statement.

Amanda nearly jumped out of her skin when her business partner's face appeared in the window next to her…seemingly out of nowhere. "Shit!"

Jody’s eyes widened. "Whoa... a little jumpy?"

"God, Jody." Amanda let out a deep breath. "Are you trying to make me wet myself?"

Wheat-colored eyes twinkled. "Considering I'm going to spend the next four hours in a small enclosed place with you... you should know the answer to that question."

Jody glanced back at the two County Attorneys who were speaking in hushed tones near the back of the car. An eyebrow quirked and she brushed some of the accumulating snow out of her bangs. I wonder what's up with them?

Jody clicked opened the back door only to be stopped by a strong hand on her back. "Let's ride up front, Jody." Mark gripped the door. "I'm too tall to be squished into the back seat and I want to sit with you."

The fair-haired attorney flashed his girlfriend a boyishly charming smile, and Jody suddenly hoped that the baby would look just like its father. Mentally frowning at the disgustingly sentimental thought, the therapist stepped forward and wrapped her arms around the Mark's thick waist, winding her fingers in his belt loops. "Fine with me, but you shouldn't drive for too long." With her elbow she gently tapped his cast.

"Keys are in the ignition," Claire said as she slipped by Jody and into the back seat. The slamming of the car door swallowed the words, "Scratch it and die." By the time the muscular woman turned to focus on Claire, Amanda was already throwing her coat to the lawyer and climbing over the front seats.

Claire shook off the last traces of snow from her hair and face. Already anticipating some good snuggle time with her lover she removed her parka as Amanda settled in next to her. The blonde snuggled closer with a contented sigh, loving the soothing heat pouring off her partner. "Mmm... Gumby, you're so nice and toasty," she murmured sleepily.

Claire sank into the embrace and pressed her lips into the soft pale head resting on her shoulder. "Let's take a nap," she suggested, as much for herself as her companion.

"Umm. Okay, you convinced me." Amanda snuggled closer still, molding herself to the taller woman as she tightened her grip on Claire's heavy sweatshirt and closed her eyes. The steady motion of the car, and the relaxed, rhythmic breathing of her lover, lulled her into a contented doze.

Blue eyes fluttered closed, all thoughts of coffee and breakfast trailing away. Claire's last conscious thoughts were swirling remembrances of the scent of leather seats, new car, and rain; the sound of pounding hearts, thunder and pleasure; and the taste of salty skin and sweet lips. She grinned a little, allowing the intoxicating sensation of new love to flood through her, until the lure of sleep was simply too much to resist. "I love you, Mandy," she muttered quietly as her mind finally let go.

"I love you too," her partner answered softly from the depths her own slumber.

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

Through the scope of a long-range hunting rifle, Cory watched Amanda, Claire, Jody, and Mark exit the bright red Pathfinder. He was perched high in a tree nearly three hundred yards away… waiting. He knew he could easily make the shots. Just like deer, he silently mused. The nose of the rifle dipped as he trained the crosshairs on Claire's head, the car blocking the rest of her body. Perverted, bitch! He imagined a bullet exploding through her chest and piercing her heart, her life force draining away into a hot crimson puddle in the snow. Oh yeah. Cory licked his lips. He was getting excited just thinking about it. She would be first… definitely.

Claire moved around the car to speak with Amanda, allowing the slender hunter an even better shot. Amanda. Cory lowered the scope to the smaller target. Warm tears stung his eyes. No hesitation! It’s out of my hands now. He commands it!

Cory's attention shifted as Jody and Mark emerged from the front of the cab. Dark eyes twitched as Mark leaned down and gave Jody a quick kiss before moving to the trunk of the vehicle. A white-hot rage enveloped Cory and his nearly numb fingers began to tremble. He shook his head. NO! NOT NOW! But the voice came anyway… taunting… teasing. A pressure began to build behind his eyes, and his pulse pounded. "She was not for you either, Cory," the voice cruelly pointed out. "No one is! No one ever will be!"

Without thinking, Cory brought his hands to his ears and shifted on the dry branch, sending a flurry of snow and bits of bark to the ground below. The rifle began to fall and the distraught man grabbed wildly at the gun, trying to keep it from taking a forty-foot plunge into the snow. In a flailing attempt, Cory managed to hook the rifle sling on his foot.

He closed his eyes -- a trail of sweat dripped down his nose. The voice stopped. Thank you. Thank you. Unsteady hands grabbed the rifle by its butt and began to readjust it on his shoulder. When his eyes moved back to his targets they were gone. Motherfuck!! It’s okay, it’s okay, it’s okay, he silently chanted. I have time. They don’t.

Cory began the long treacherous descent down the tree. So, Jody’s with the lawyer. She’s probably sleeping with him. Unbidden images of Mark’s naked, bloodied body assaulted him. He ignored them. Slut! FINE THEN! YOU CAN ALL DIE! Visions of blood and carnage filled his mind’s eye as he jumped from the bottom branch, his boots crushing several dead branches buried deep beneath the snow. Cory adjusted his sock hat and zipped his camouflaged jacket to the top. Fumbling cold fingers adjusted the heavy bindings of his snowshoes and he silently disappeared back into the forest. I have time. They don’t.

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

Jody kicked the snow off her boots and stepped into the cabin, surprised that it was nearly the same temperature as the outside air. She looked around and her eyebrows disappeared behind wavy dark brown bangs. "Wow."

The interior was decorated in bright yellow, green and white, giving the cabin, which consisted of nothing more than one very large room, a Spring-like atmosphere -- even in the heart of Winter. Floral designs were paired with lace, and whitewashed furniture dotted the maple colored hardwood floors.

In the corner sat an extremely tall, king-sized bed. The rays of the mid-morning sun streaming through a nearby window caused the shiny gold bed frame to sparkle brightly. Intricate patterns of pale green vines climbed across the white, goose-feather comforter, and solid-yellow pillows of all shapes and sizes decorated the massive structure.

Next to the bed stood a four-drawer wooden dresser that was dwarfed by its bold, gigantic companion. Above the dresser, in an octagonal frame, hung a print of a brass vase, circled by a bright green ribbon, and overflowing with colorful wildflowers.

In the rear of the cabin a discrete door led to a cherished new addition-- a bathroom. The bathroom contained an old-fashioned claw-footed bathtub, fed by clean but cold well water, and a flush toilet made possible by clever engineering and the underground pressure provided by the hilly landscape. The kitchen consisted of nothing more than a small round table with two chairs, a shiny pump-handled sink, and an icebox.

Amanda stepped in past her friend with Mark and Claire on either side of her. The blonde nodded, noticing the shiny floors and lack of dust. "Iris must have hired someone to clean..." her eyes traveled to the bed, "...and put on fresh linens. I know she hasn’t been here since last summer."

Mark dropped his and Jody’s bags by the door. "I take it we’re staying in this one," he asked Amanda, making it clear that was his preference.

"Sure," Amanda answered, thinking she was more in the mood for the other cabin, which was set a little deeper into the woods. I think Claire will like it too.

Jody laughed and looked toward the obvious focal point of the room. "Iris, you old dog! I’ve never seen a room with a bigger or more eye-catching bed."

Mark wriggled pale eyebrows. "I like Iris."

"The place isn't as primitive as it seems," Amanda reassured, remembering everyone's initial reluctance at the lack of electricity. "The oil lamps and candles will provide plenty of light, and Iris assures me this..." she pointed to wood burning stove, "...works really well." It had better or I’m dead meat.

Jody sat down on the small loveseat that faced the hollow wood stove. "I guess we’d better fill the wood box and start heating this place up." God, why do I feel so tired? I haven’t done anything but sit in the car all morning.

Walking over to the stove Mark noticed the nearly hidden cables that ran out the back. Must be for the generator. The stove can be run with wood or gas... excellent.

Claire nodded, thinking to herself that maybe Jody could use a rest. Stubborn… Gumby altering… no good…. "Good idea. Why don't Amanda and I go get settled in the other cabin and we'll meet you guys back here in a couple of hours for lunch?" Claire's suggestion was met with murmurs of approval. Jody headed to the kitchen to unload their food and Mark began moving the bags over to the bed.

Amanda extended her hand. "C'mon, honey. The other cabin is about 100 yards up the hill." I can’t wait to show you.

Claire fumbled with the stack of logs in her arms as Amanda opened the door in front of her. The tall woman's face split into a flattering smile as she entered the smaller of the two cabins. She spun around taking in the decor. "Holy..."

"You like?" Amanda beamed inwardly.

"Amanda, this is beautiful. I mean the other cabin was beautiful too, but this is... well... it..."

"It suits you better?" The younger woman asked, already knowing it to be true.

It was as if different people owned the cabins, or at the very least, that they were the product of a split personality. And in a way they were. Iris had chosen the furnishings for the larger cabin. But Amanda's mentor had given her young protégé free rein to decorate this one, trusting her judgment and good taste implicitly.

Whereas Jody and Mark's cabin was light, airy and fresh, this cabin was warm and comforting, filled with plaids, heavy fabrics and muted, rich colors. The cabin was sectioned off into a living area, bedroom and kitchen.

The bedroom wasn't really a separate room. Rather, a wall about four-foot high separated a tiny area and afforded the room's occupants some small measure of privacy.

A narrow double bed was encased in a dark walnut frame that was shaped like a sleigh, and a wooden trunk sat at its foot. Its coverings were dark green, blue, and maroon tartans with two simple pillows that were tucked neatly under the plaids. While it was beautifully inviting, it wasn't the focus of the room.

In the living area, in front of a massive stone fireplace, sat a large, overstuffed couch covered in a heavy wine colored fabric, accented by several throws in colors matching the bedding. At the foot of the couch lay a thick oval-shaped sheepskin rug that extended nearly to the fireplace and was flanked by a set of low black walnut end tables. The tables were topped with unique pieces of sculptures made from pine cones, twigs, feathers, leather, and other local fauna.

"Mandy, it's great!" Claire smiled at the faint aroma of hardwood and cinnamon.

The walls were decorated with several Terry Redlin prints celebrating nature and wildlife, and over the fireplace hung a dark, shiny oil painting of a mountain man, Indian maiden, and child. Claire found herself irresistibly drawn toward the intriguing work of art, immediately recognizing its strong expressive lines.

The Indian woman faced the child, leaving her face a mystery, and two long braids were painted in such fine detail Claire could make out each strand of midnight hair as it blew in the summer breeze. The woman was washing a small red-haired child in what appeared to be a large barrel that had been split in half. The child's hair was a mountain of bubbles and his happy toothless grin lit up the picture.

The mountain man, dressed only in buckskin britches and boots, held an axe. He was as fair and freckled as the woman was dark and exotic, and was scratching his chin through a short, curly red beard. The man's sea-green eyes were focused on the woman and child, his adoration shining like the July sun.

Claire was speechless. It's her! Well... it would be her if she had a beard and was a man. I wonder if she even realizes? Her jaw worked for several long seconds before the words could escape. "I never knew you painted in oils," she finally commented her eyes never straying from the mountain man’s enigmatic smile.

Amanda winced, misinterpreting Claire's reaction. "I don't... really. Iris asked for something rustic and watercolors just didn't seem to fit the bill. At least not in this cabin." The blonde cocked her head and observed her lawyer. She hates it. She shrugged, trying to set aside the unexpected jolt of disappointment that stung her guts. "It just sort of happened."

"It's fabulous," Claire stated simply, the awe in her voice cutting through Amanda's insecurity.

Green eyes widened in surprise. "Seriously," she begged shamelessly for more reassurances. Damn, what is wrong with me?

Claire nodded and absently reached for Amanda's hand, her eyes still transfixed on the canvas. The blonde let out a shaky breath, a little unsettled by her sudden need, and squeezed the fingers threaded between her own. She was inordinately pleased that Claire appreciated this piece in particular. Amanda hadn't thought it mattered, but in that split second she knew it did... terribly.

The painting had always been one of her favorites and she'd never repeated her effort in the medium, deciding to quit while she was ahead. Amanda's eyes drifted from her partner, to the woman in the painting, and back again. A mischievous smile curled her lips. Tall, broad shoulders, strong arms. "She looks like you, you know." I wonder if I was dreaming about you all those years ago, before we even met?

Claire finally pulled her attention from the mountain man and considered the pictures of other occupants. "What do you mean she looks like me? All you can see is her back." Claire smiled wryly. "Besides, long dark hair doesn't exactly distinguish me from any other Native American woman from the era."

The lawyer noticed the pulling sensation in her shoulders. "Mandy, where...?"

Before she could finish Amanda grabbed several of the larger pieces of wood out of Claire's arms and dropped them into the woodbin near the fireplace. Claire followed suit, stretching out her arms as soon as she dropped the last log. She groaned.

Interested, cerulean eyes scanned the room. "There's no wood stove in here. I guess this big fireplace heats the place all on its own." Claire admired the majestic stone hearth and dark wood mantle, whose color exactly matched the floors. "How are you at starting fires?" She looked to her partner.

Me? Okaaay. "I guess we'll find out." Amanda kneeled in front of the fireplace and poked her head up the chimney. After making sure the flue was open, she grabbed a handful of old newspapers from a stack alongside the woodbin and began crunching them up into balls.

Claire looked on in fascination as Amanda started a blazing fire in under a minute. Jesus Christ. "Where in the hell did you learn how to do that?"

Amanda shrugged. "I dunno." Green eyes twinkled. "I dated an Eagle Scout once."

A well shaped eyebrow rose to it highest level. "And did he light your fire, Mandy?"

A snort was her answer.

Claire stepped forward and handed Amanda two larger logs, now that the flame had taken a secure hold of the kindling. "Well, I'm just glad you're here. Otherwise, I'd be spending the night in the Pathfinder with the heater on."

"If I weren’t here you’d be in a hotel." One small adjustment to the logs and Amanda stood up and dusted her hands off on her jeans. Soon it would be warm enough to take off their coats.

Claire stepped closer to her lover and wrapped her arms around the smaller woman's waist. "You..." she touched the tip of Amanda's nose. "...have many skills. And I don't just mean the painting and the fire."

Amanda puffed out her chest. "And you're just now noticing this?" she teased.

Claire slowly shook her head as her eyes took on a serious, intense expression and her finger traced her lover's feminine, youthful features. Another hand slid up as the lawyer cupped both of Amanda's cheeks. Blue held green for a long provocative moment. "I love you more than words can say," Claire whispered, smiling gently at Amanda's startled reaction to the surprisingly reverent declaration. "And no, I'm not just now noticing," she added sincerely.

Amanda felt a pang deep in her chest and wondered why her heart didn't explode on the spot. She clutched at her partner and buried her face in the smooth skin of Claire's neck, taking a deep breath of her lovers reassuring scent, and relishing the closeness she had come to depend on in a way so elemental that the enormity of it was sometimes frightening. "How'd you get so romantic?" her voice cracked. Warm lips gently grazed the top of her head.

Claire didn't answer, instead she simply pulled her partner closer and stared into the crackling flames for so long she wondered if Amanda had fallen asleep in her arms. "Mandy?" she said softly.

"Hmm?"

"Please tell me this cabin has indoor plumbing." Claire twisted her legs to make her point, and the blonde against her stilled… then convulsed into laughter.

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

Monica paused outside the door of the Cornerstone Clinic. This is long overdue. With a deep breath the blonde pushed open the door and went inside.

At the reception desk sat a young man reading a magazine in what appeared to be a completely empty office.

Since when did they get a secretary? "Hello," Monica said brightly.

"Dr. Greer?" The man looked confused. "Is that you?" He'd only met Amanda once for a few moments when the temp agency sent him over for an interview with Dr. Penbrook.

Monica smiled. I guess we still look an awful lot a like sis. "No. My name is Monica Greer and I've got an appointment to see my sister, Dr. Greer," she lied.

"You... you have an appointment?" The secretary looked down at his desk calendar and began flipping through the pages as if some piece of previously unnoticed information was going jump out and bite him in the ass.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Greer, but Dr. Greer and Dr. Penbrook are on vacation this week. I'm just supposed to answer the phone and forward any important messages."

"Vacation?" My fucking luck! Monica quickly recovered. "Amanda must have forgotten our appointment..." She paused and looked pointedly at the young man.

"Alan," he provided helpfully.

The blonde flashed him a winning smile. "Alan," she repeated as if he'd given her some unexpected good news. He stood a little straighter and lifted his chin proudly. Men... Jesus. No wonder Amanda is into chicks. "Alan," she purred. "You wouldn't happen to have a phone number and address where I could reach my sister, would you?" She looked at him innocently then licked her lips in a playfully seductive manner. "I'd be ever so grateful."

Alan's audible swallow nearly caused Monica to laugh in the poor boy's face. He couldn't move fast enough. "Yes... absolutely... here... here is her cell phone number." He paused, suddenly unsure of his actions. "She said it was only for emergencies," the secretary hedged.

"Trust me, Alan." Monica drew her finger from his breastbone and up along his neck, stopping when she reached nearly trembling lips. I do believe this boy is gonna blow his wad right here and now. "Amanda will consider what I have to tell her an emergency." She flashed him another coy smile and let her finger slide into his hot mouth. His resolve melted like an ice cube in hell.

"Here." He thrust the paper in her hand. This is the best damn day of my life!

Monica looked at the paper. "This is only a phone number Alan. I need an address too." Round disappointed eyes fixed on their target.

"But..."

"Please," she added sweetly, batting her eyelashes.

Alan began thinking furiously, then, as if a light bulb pinged on in his head, he remembered something. "I... I started last week, before everyone left and an older lady, Irene or Iris or Irma... something like that... anyway, she asked me to fax Dr. Greer something."

And you're telling me this becaaause? Monica fought the urge to scratch out Alan's eyes and simply dig around herself for the information she wanted. "And?" she said with a patience she didn't really feel.

"And it was a map."

Monica's eyes sparkled. Now she was interested. "And you have a copy of this map," she prodded.

Alan nodded and reached into the bottom drawer of the desk. After a moment of desperate rifling he pulled out a map with a note attached.

Monica smiled and folded the paper into a small square, which she shoved into her jeans pocket. "Thank you Alan, you've been extremely helpful." She studied the secretary with interest.

"Alan, how old are you?"

He opened his mouth but Monica interrupted him before he could begin. "Don't lie to me." She waggled a finger at the flustered temp.

"Nineteen."

"I see." Monica looked at her watch. It's too late to drive up to the cabin tonight, even if I could beg, borrow, or steal a car. My piece of shit should be out of the shop tomorrow. A mental sigh. Day after tomorrow will have to be soon enough to collect my daughter. Monica's focus shifted to the nervous young man behind the desk. Alan...Alan... "What skills landed you this job?" He must be able to do something. No doubt Amanda and Jody pay well.

"I can type forty words a minute and have a pleasant phone voice," Alan answered, repeating the things the lady at the temp agency told him employers liked to hear. Damn, Ricky and Mike are gonna die when I tell them about her! And they thought I was stupid for not working at the Christmas tree lot again this year. She is so hot! Suckers!

Monica moved around the desk and pressed herself against the young secretary, who looked like he was about to swallow his own tongue. Wild eyes took on a wicked glint. "Which one of these offices belongs to that bitc... I mean to Dr. Penbrook?"

On her last visit, Monica was so strung out she'd paid no attention to her surroundings. Her time in the clinic was all tied up in fuzzy memories involving a shooting and cravings and pain.

Steady, slender fingers trailed down Alan's chest and found their way to the bulge in his pants. Monica began to lightly squeeze. She raised an eyebrow and her lips shaped into crooked grin. Eager boy.

Alan didn't think he could speak, when he realized his mouth was hanging open he clicked it shut, vaguely aware of its parched texture. As the pressure between his legs built he began to feel a little light-headed. Monica's sharply raised eyebrow told him she was waiting for an answer so he just pointed to the right. The older Greer sister nodded and began pushing him toward the office, never removing her hand from his groin. "Alan, let me share with you a little business tip I've come to appreciate over the years," Monica sagely offered as she opened Jody's office door. "Never..." she smiled wickedly "...underestimate the value of good oral skills."

The office door slammed shut.

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

Cory was sweating heavily by the time he dropped onto the porch of the old wooden house and began unlacing his snowshoes. He'd trudged through the deep snow for the past 2 hours at a break-neck speed, driven by madness, hunger, and a burning yearning not to miss ‘Love Connection’, which was starting at 1:00 p.m.

He had discovered the idyllic home 3 days ago, while exploring the area. It was approximately 6 miles from the other cabins, down a small tree-strewn ravine and across an ice-covered river. It sat on the edge of a larger county, and was just close enough to the nearest village, that the single-story home had electricity. It would have been perfect had it been abandoned. Unfortunately, it wasn’t.

Cory wiped his sweaty brow with his hand. Damn. I wonder if there’s a snowmobile in the garage? The wiry man knocked off his boots and laid his snowshoes against the porch railing. He sighed. Time to clean house.

"Hi, mom and dad! I’m home!" the slender construction worker shouted brightly as he entered the house.

Perched on the sofa, in a massive pool of sticky, mostly-dried blood, were Barbara and Davy Jensen. The elderly couple was posed in a macabre embrace, watching television through dead eyes. Their throats had been slit from ear to ear and the bodies were starting to turn rancid in the warm cabin, their acrid stench drifting into every room of the structure.

"Sorry, mom." Rigor mortis had come and gone, and Cory was easily able to pry the old woman’s arms from around her husband causing her to crumble into a heap on the floor. "Whew!" Cory made a disgusted face. "You’re ripe."

Oblivious to the blood, the dark-eyed construction worker grabbed Barbara Jensen by one leg and one arm and dragged her out of the house and across the porch. Her head thumped loudly as it banged each wooden step leading into the snow. "Oops... Sorry, Mom. I bet you’ve got quite a headache," he smirked.

Twenty more minutes and Davy joined his wife in a tangled mass next to the well-maintained woodpile. Cory cocked his head to the side and stared at the couple. After several long moments he arranged the bodies so that Barbara’s head was pillowed on Davy’s slim shoulder. A light snow had begun to fall and was already beginning to blanket the bodies. They’re together. All is as it should be. Cory nodded, satisfied with his work, and went inside to clean his rifle. He smiled as he looked at his watch. Just in time for 'Love Connection'.

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

Mark and Jody's cabin, though it was a good clip larger than the one up the hill, warmed quickly under the influence of the powerful wood stove. Both couples were now able to move around comfortably without their coats. Jody and Mark perched together on the small, but cozy loveseat while Claire and Amanda sat side-by-side on the floor.

Claire knew Amanda wanted to absorb as much of the radiant heat as possible, both from her and the fireplace. Perfect eyebrows drew together. I wonder what it would take to install a fireplace at home? Mandy would love that.

"Thanks." Amanda smiled sweetly as Jody passed her a half-full container of potato salad. The blonde dumped a large dollop onto her paper plate and hummed contentedly as she began to devour the tasty chunks.

Claire's attention returned to her companions and she smiled fondly at her partner. Note to self: Buy more food. The lawyer did a mental inventory of the bags they’d brought with them. Amended note to self: buy lots more food.

When Amanda finished the last of her lunch she patted her tummy appreciatively. "Thanks, Mark. Those ham sandwiches and all the fixin's really hit the spot."

Mark smiled, knowing he'd always have a grateful culinary audience in Amanda. While Jody and Claire enjoyed what he prepared, Amanda experienced it. She was every amateur chef's dream, attentive to the last crumb.

The prosecutor grabbed the empty plates and moved to throw them into the stove. When he realized he couldn't do it one-handed he let out a virulent string of curses and flopped back onto the loveseat in a huff.

Jody patted the big man's knee and leaned forward to open the stove door. With a quick flick of her wrist the flames instantly devoured the plates. Deciding the wood supply was adequate, the brunette therapist turned back to Mark and was met with an adoring look that stole her breath away.

"Thanks," he said, trying to scowl but not quite succeeding. People had been asking him all week why he had such a ridiculously happy grin plastered on his face. He had resolved himself to wear a more stoic look, mentally picturing Claire and her legendary 'bored look'. Mark sighed. Truthfully, his personality was much closer to Amanda's and he found himself lacking the will power and inclination to maintain an unaffected air in the wake of Jody's good news. Teasing be damned, he was thrilled and it showed. Still, his arm made even the simplest tasks unreasonably difficult. The severity of the break and the type and size of the cast made casual movement all but impossible. He was nearing the breaking point and he had still had at least 2 months to go. Jesus, 2 months!

"S'okay," replied Jody, snuggling a little closer to the frustrated man.

Claire watched Jody and Mark with rapt fascination. Although she often saw them together, seeing the affection and easy-going attitude that characterized their relationship always surprised her a little. It was obvious the two were first and foremost friends. She smiled a little when Mark leaned over and placed a light kiss on Jody's cheek, drawing a faint blush from the stocky, sometimes-difficult woman. I guess everything else is just gravy.

"So..." Mark cleared his throat. "What are we gonna do up here?"

Three sets of eyes turned to Amanda causing hers to widen. "What?? Why are you looking at me?"

"Well, you've been her before," Jody explained the obvious.

"But never in the winter." Amanda shrugged. "I was planning on doing some reading, sleeping late, walking through the forest, maybe heading into town to do some shopping..." Making love to Claire until she walks funny.

Mark and Jody turned to Claire dismissing Amanda's idea of 'fun'. The brunette attorney snorted and offered her own ideas. "Hmm... The ice isn't set enough for fishing, and Mark's in no condition for skiing thank God. But Twin Harbors has a movie theater and some bars...we could go there. Or maybe we could rent some snowmobiles?"

Jody and Mark shook their heads and smiled, grunting their approval, which caused Amanda to rise to her feet and place her hands on her hips indignantly. "And what was wrong with my suggestions? We're supposed to be enjoying nature and each other's company not getting drunk, acting like fools, and riding around at one-hundred miles per hour on snowmobiles."

"I wasn't going to drink," Jody informed her business partner, not bothering to deny the rest. Mark and Claire laughed.

Blue eyes rolled in an exaggerated motion as Claire stood up and wrapped an arm around Amanda's waist. "Mandy, I'll bet you were the kid in class who reminded the teacher when she forgot to assign homework."

"I was not!" the blonde protested vehemently. She winced internally. Okay... but I only did that once!

"Suuurrree," her friend's drawled in unison, laughing again.

"Fine." Amanda grumped but was soon smiling herself. "You wanna meet back here around 6:00 p.m. then we can all go to dinner?"

Mark nodded, hoping he could talk Jody into a nap. The tall man stood and tossed Claire and Amanda their coats. He looked out the window and absently noticed that the sun had disappeared behind thick clouds and a light snow was falling. He shut the door behind Claire and Amanda and made his way back to Jody.

"You want me to take a nap, don't you?" Mark had been hinting at it for the last couple of hours and Jody was trying not to let it irritate her.

"Yep." He smiled remembering how easily pregnant women got tired, especially in their first trimester. "Okay if join you? I'm not used to getting up before the crack of dawn."

Jody nodded enthusiastically and looked at the enormous bed and Mark. The combination looked like heaven to the therapist who held out her hand invitingly. "As a matter of fact... I insist."

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

Cory slipped out of Amanda and Claire's cabin just as the foursome exited the Pathfinder after a pleasant evening of dinner and drinks in town. The young construction worker laughed to himself, confident the blowing snow and darkness would cover his tracks leading from the cabin to the woods. Soon. He wondered how their hot blood would feel running down his hands and forearms and closed his eyes in pleasure. Wonderful, he decided. Simply wonderful.

"Should we head back into town tomorrow?" Amanda asked Claire as she shed her coat and moved to stoke the fire that had burned down to embers in their absence.

"Well, the guy at the bar told me most of the blizzard should pass well North of here. Besides, so what if it hits? We've got food and wood and as many gallons of gas as we could load into the trunk in case we need to run the generator. We should be able to ride it out if it comes to that." Claire studied Amanda's back. Moving forward she laid her palm on her lover's shoulder. "But if you'd feel more comfortable, we can bunk in a lodge or motel until the bad weather passes."

Amanda smiled and shook her head. "Nah, you're right. There's no reason we can't just stay here." Pale eyebrows wriggled. "Most of what I wanted to do on this vacation doesn't require anything but you… and since you're here with me...."

Claire chuckled. "Why, Mandy, are you propositioning me?"

"Me and everybody else in Minnesota," the therapist groused. One of the restaurant's more inebriated patrons had found Claire too appealing to ignore and put a serious damper on Amanda’s evening.

"He was just a drunken idiot." Claire rolled her shoulder. "I just try to ignore that stuff." Unless it’s directed at you. Claire sat down alongside her partner and gazed into the newly stoked flames, which were shooting dancing shadow patterns across the cabin's mostly dark interior.

Amanda’s attention was on her partner and her normally pale blue eyes, gone indigo in the firelight. "You are so beautiful," she offered dreamily. "Too bad for everyone else that you're mine." She reached up and stroked the soft skin on Claire's cheek. "All mine," she added possessively, not worrying at all about her lover's reaction.

A dark eyebrow edged upward and the lawyer flashed Amanda a sparkling white smile. "I think you made that clear tonight when you told my admirer to go back to his sheep before you kicked his scrawny ass all the way to Canada."

Amanda blushed. "Oh yeah, err..." She shrugged. "Sorry about that. But he wasn't taking your hints."

"Hints? I told him I was with you and to leave us alone. That's not a hint."

"But he didn't leave!"

"He did after you kissed me full on the mouth! Though judging from his reaction I think he really liked it!"

Amanda’s blush turned scarlet. "I... um..."

Claire leaned over and soundly kissed her partner. "S'okay," she chuckled. "I know exactly how you felt."

"Really?" Amanda asked, surprised.

"Of course. How many times have you been asked out, or at the very least leered at right in front of me?"

Amanda thought about that and frowned. It didn't happen as much with her as it did with Claire, but when it did, she knew it upset the attorney. But what can we do about it? Keep each other on leashes? Have my name tattooed on her forehead and vice versa? The frown deepened. People will always see what they want to see, no matter what we tell them or what the truth really is.

"Earth to Mandy. Are you still with me?" Claire waved her hand in front of Amanda's face and gave her a friendly bump with her shoulder. "Are you okay?" she asked, concerned over Amanda's suddenly melancholy mood.

The younger woman reluctantly drew herself out of her thoughts. "Yeah, I was just thinking." She snuggled closer to her partner.

"Ahh." Claire could read her lover easily and wrapped a long arm around Amanda’s shoulders. You said forever, Mandy, but I wonder just what type of commitment you're willing to make. Tucking that idea away for later, Claire thought about what a long day it had been. "I think I'll grab a quick shower before bed."

"You mean a bath," Amanda reminded with a twinkle in her eyes. No interruptions this time, Gumby.

Claire nodded then moaned. "But I don't think I can take that cold water! Have you felt it? When I washed my hands this afternoon I almost had a damned heart attack!"

Amanda laughed. "Oh yeah," she drew out the words. "I remember. It's like that even in the summertime. That's what this rod is for." She pointed toward a bent black metal rod tucked up along the edge of the fireplace. "In the kitchen is this huge steel pot that you can fill with water and then hang over the flame until it's boiling. Two or three pots full added to the cold water and you've got a warm bath. It takes a little time… but it's totally worth it. There's even a smaller pot for soup or stew or coffee maybe. But I've never tried it."

"Why not?" Claire couldn't imagine her lover not trying anything if it meant hot food.

"I just used the stove in the other cabin. You can sit a pot or skillet right on top." Amanda stretched out her feet and leaned back into Claire’s strong embrace. She dug her fingers into the soft sheepskin rug, enjoying its fuzzy warmth and the rich smell of the crackling maple in the fire.

"You walked there for every meal?"

"Nope. I always stay in the other cabin. This is my first time in this one."

Claire's eyebrows rose. "Does Iris take this one?" The lawyer wiggled and warmed her toes in front to the flames.

"Dunno. Iris has never been here when I've come up. I've been here four or five times but never with her. I brought Monica once a long time ago." The blonde smiled ruefully. "But we had an argument and she took off the first day."

"Did you guys drive here in separate cars?"

"No," Amanda answered simply, not feeling the need to go into all the trouble it had been to find a way into town and then rent a car. Claire didn't need another reason to dislike her sister. There were already more than enough as it was.

That bitch! Claire shifted and pulled Amanda into a hug. "Sorry," she murmured against fair hair. "Why didn't you ever stay here?" Claire asked, intentionally steering the conversation away from Amanda's troublesome sister, but not releasing her lover from the hug.

Why didn't I? "I'm not really sure. Hmm… You smell good." She felt rather than heard her lover’s laugh and happily burrowed her face deeper into Claire’s neck. "I guess... it... never seemed right until..." A smile teased at Amanda's lips and she tasted the delicate skin of her lover's throat. "...until you."

Claire smiled back. "Aww… You're such a romantic, Mandy. But are you sure you just didn't want to be closer to the stove and an easy cup of hot chocolate?"

That comment earned the lawyer a smack in the belly. "I'm sure, ya rat."

"Is his bath a warm one."

Amanda didn't have to look to know Claire’s eyes had drifted to the oil painting above the mantel. "Sure it is. She heated it for him."

The women didn't speak for several moments. They just sat and thought and gladly enjoyed the soothing presence of the other.

"Why?" Claire finally asked, breaking Amanda out of her thoughts of Missy, even though she painted the picture years before Missy was born, the smiling boy always reminded her of her daughter.

"Why what?" Amanda asked, confused.

"Why did she heat it, even in the summertime?" There was a vulnerable edge to the darker woman's voice that made Amanda pull away so she could study her face.

"Because she loves him," came the easy reply.

"Is he hers? He looks like the man but not the woman."

Amanda's brow furrowed. "No, he's not hers. But she loves him anyway, just like I love Missy."

"I love her too." Claire pushed down a twinge of nervousness as her stomach did flip-flops. Ask her you chicken shit! she mentally prodded herself. The worst she can say is 'no' and think you were nuts for even suggesting it.

Amanda reached out and grasped large hands that were uncharacteristically chilled. The therapist searched the depths of azure eyes in an attempt to figure out where Claire was heading. Finding no guidance, she simply trusted that Claire would fill her in. "I know you do, sweetheart. You show her and tell her everyday. You're a wonderful mo..." Amanda stopped, cursing herself for the near verbal slip. Stop it, Mandy. Claire hasn't said hasn't said that's something she even wants. But even as she thought it, the blonde knew it didn't make any sense.

Claire had eagerly taken on a large part of Missy's parenting. She truly was another mother to the child… in every way. But they’d never really discussed Claire's role with Missy and Amanda didn't want to make assumptions regarding something so important. Not wanting Claire to feel awkward or pressured, she had even taken Missy aside and reminded her to call Claire by her name and not 'mama', when the term had accidentally rolled of the child's tongue more than once.

The lawyer focused open blue eyes on Amanda. "You were going to say mother." It was more a statement than question.

Crap. Amanda swallowed hard and did her best to steady her voice. "Yes, I was." She waited and watched, but Claire showed no response. Then the older woman's jaw began to work. But it was several more seconds before any sound emerged. Amanda could nearly feel the tense waves pouring off her lover.

"You told Missy not to call me that." The normally strong voice cracked a little.

Amanda suddenly felt nauseous and her heart began to pound. Oh God.

Glassy orbs dropped, unwilling to see Amanda's reaction. "I understand that you..." A deep breath. "...didn't want her to. I... I was just wondering why."

She thinks... Nonononono. Damn.

Claire felt soft fingers tug at her chin and soon she was captured in intense green eyes. "You're wrong if you think I didn't want Missy to call you 'mama'. I would love that. You are that to her and you have been for months, even before we moved in together," she added sincerely. "She may be the only person on earth who loves you nearly as much as I do."

The tension in Claire's guts immediately began to ease and she felt like she could breath again. "So... it would be okay for her to call me mom or mama or something like that... you wouldn't mind?"

"We're raising her together, right?" Amanda asked, wanting to hear the words that were really nothing more than a simple confirmation of what had been happening from the very start. Claire nodded and smiled a heart-stopping smile that made Amanda's chest ache. The blonde cursed her stupidity. Jesus, how can I start with the best intentions and then mess up things so badly?

Amanda shook her head, her own eyes welling in response to her partner's unshed tears. A small smile touched her face. "You can tell her as soon as we get home." While the words were still hanging in the air she was pulled into a nearly crushing embrace.

"Thanks, Mandy," Claire whispered. "I've been wanting to ask if that would be okay... but I was worried...well... I wasn’t sure... I was just worried that’s all," she finished lamely.

Claire's warm breath tickled Mandy's ear, and she silently thanked any Gods listening for the love of this woman. "I know. I love you. I should have asked you about it sooner but I didn't want you to feel pressured. It wasn't a reflection on your parenting. I swear." Amanda closed her eyes and bit the bullet. "In fact, I think we make a pretty good team." God why am I so nervous? "So good in fact, I'd like to add another player." That's right, Mandy, make her solve a damn riddle! "I mean..."

"Yes."

Amanda pulled back. "What did you say?"

"I said 'yes'."

The therapist's senses were reeling. "Do you understand…?"

"You want another child." Just like I do.

Green eyes widened and Amanda could only nod mutely.

Claire cupped her cheeks. "I think it's a fantastic idea. I hated being an only child and we've got more than enough love to share."

A tentative smile edged its way onto Amanda's face. "Really? You've thought about this before?" The younger woman felt an uncontrollable surge of emotion well within her.

"Really and yes," Claire assured and was knocked flat on her back by Amanda's hurling body. How did she work up so much velocity? She was only one foot away from me! The lawyer exhaled loudly as the air was literally forced from her lungs when her shoulders hit the sheepskin rug. Catching her breath, she laughed as Amanda peppered her face with kisses, muttering words of thanks and devotion.

After enjoying the few moments of the lavish attention Amanda was offering, Claire spoke, not wanting to give her partner false hope. "Adoption may not be a reasonable option this time around."
 
 

Amanda stopped the constant shower of kisses long enough to consider Claire's statement. "Hmm." Her sexual orientation hadn't been an issue in Missy's adoption. She wasn't seeing anyone at the time and lived alone. No one asked, and she didn't offer the information. Now, even the most cursory investigation could be damning. "Would you...?"

"First thing next week I'll get to work on the research." Time to brush up on my family law. Some states had statutes that outright forbade same sex couples from adopting, and while she wasn't aware of any such restriction in Minnesota, she wasn't sure they didn't have one either.

Now for the tricky part. Claire screwed up her courage. "Have you ever considered one of us actually 'having' the baby instead of adopting."

Amanda stared down at the face inches below hers. "As in one of us getting pregnant?" she asked in a shocked but delighted voice.

"Well, I might have to confirm it with Jody, but I do think that's one way to get a baby."

"Smarty pants." Amanda sat up, straddling her supine partner. "Wow. I never… I mean… which one of us did you want to get pregnant?"

"I'd love to do it."

"REALLY?" Amanda practically shrieked.

"Jesus Christ, Mandy, you're acting like I told you I want to grow a beard! Is this so hard to believe?" Claire asked exasperatedly.

"No, sweetheart. Well...actually it is! You've never said a word about wanting to have a baby."

"Neither have you."

"Yes, but I obviously wanted a baby at one time or I wouldn't have adopted Missy. And when I just 'mentioned', in passing, that it might be a good idea to get a flu shot, you turned pale as a ghost."

A challenging dark eyebrow lifted. "Yeah well, I only consider subjecting myself to voluntary pain under extraordinary circumstances. And this qualifies."

Amanda’s smile stretched her facial muscles and crinkled her nose and the corners of her eyes in a way Claire found completely adorable. "I'd love to do it too... Get pregnant I mean."

"Well, it looks like we've got a lot to think about." Claire sat up and nuzzled her partner's neck. "Wadda ya say we do the bath thing in the morning and get right to practicing that baby making thing tonight."

Amanda giggled. "Unless there's something else you want to tell me... I don't think practice is gonna make perfect in our case, honey."

"I know." Claire traced Amanda's ear with the tip of her tongue then moved down to the tender skin on Amanda's neck. She felt her lover's pulse jump in response as small fingers found their way into her hair. "But wouldn't it be fun trying?" she got out, before an insistent mouth covered her own.

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Comments or questions to Advocate advocate8704@yahoo.com

  Continued

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