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Message-ID: <41706asstr$1049767808@assm.asstr-mirror.org>
From: "MikeC" <MikeC@NoSpam.nspace.net>
Subject: {ASSM} (new) Kelly16 (A JamesWorld Story from NightHawk)
Date: Mon,  7 Apr 2003 22:10:08 -0400
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Newsgroups: alt.sex.stories.moderated,alt.sex.stories
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April 7, 2003

Kelly
A (not so) short story by Night Hawk
Archived at <http://www.asstr-mirror.org/files/Authors/MikeC/James>

Inspired by Mike C, based on characters in his novel: "James"
Characters and situations copyright by Mike C, 2003


Chapter 16

     Kelly woke up in a tangle of limbs.  Her leg felt numb and looking down
saw that somewhere through the night, the three of them had become
interlocked.  It was a sign of their comfort with each other that they could
sleep this way.

     Looking over at the clock she was surprised to see it was after 9:00.
Feeling mischievous, she slipped her hand into the elastic waistband of
Laura's panties.  Kelly pulled it back as far as she dared before she
snapped the band.  Laura's eyes immediately sprang open in surprise as the
elastic pinged off of her soft skin, then she smiled at the grinning Kelly.

     Laura stretched, sighed then reached over and gave Kelly a good morning
kiss.  Todd softly snored on, blissfully unaware that it was daylight.

     Kelly and Laura carefully unwound themselves from Todd's body and
pulling on T's for the sake of the houseguests, headed for the kitchen.  As
they passed the living room, the sound of the TV could be heard, barely.

     Cara and Ami had woken up shortly after 8:00 with Cara snugly wrapped
around Ami's smaller body.  They had both awoken at the same time and for a
few embarrassing moments with some serious blushing on Cara's part, it was
finally Ami who had said, "Look, it's no big deal.  If I hadn't been in bed
with you, you probably would have woken up wrapped around a pillow."  But
her words sounded hollow even to herself.  The truth was she had enjoyed
waking up feeling Cara's body next to hers.

     The girls didn't know what time Kelly, Laura and Todd would be getting
up and had decided, based on Laura's comments about breakfast, that they
would check out the TV.  Grabbing a couple of bottles of Evian, they sat in
front of the barely audible TV.   Just in case the three-some in the other b
edroom were not early risers, they didn't want to disturb them.  And
following Kelly's comments from the night before, they hadn't bothered
dressing but sat in their own nightshirts watching Women's Volleyball on TSN
when Kelly and Laura popped in.

     "Good morning ladies," said Kelly, "I trust you slept well?"

     Laura said "Hi," and continued to the kitchen.

     "Very well thank you," said Ami.

     "It's a real comfortable bed," said Cara wishing she was still in it
feeling the warmth of Ami's body.

     "So are you girls ready to start a modified diet?" Kelly asked.  "Since
you won't be working out as often or as intensely, now is a critical time
not to let 'fab' turn to flab."

     "I suppose," sighed Ami.

     "Don't you girls worry.  I know it's going to take a bit of time to
adjust, so let's just start slowly.  Have more meals, but less carbs, and
after breakfast, we'll go out bike shopping.  That will help through the
transition period."

     "Cool!" said Cara turning off the TV.

     Laura was laying out the vitamins and bottles of go-juice when Kelly,
Cara and Ami walked in.

     "And for breakfast we have," said Laura smiling, "grapefruit slices,
fresh orange juice, celery and carrots."

     "And don't forget," added Kelly with a laugh, "it's an all-you-can-eat
buffet!"

     Both Cara and Ami groaned.

     "What?  Not satisfied with the 'Continental Breakfast' supplied by this
fine establishment?" asked Todd smiling as he entered the kitchen.

     Todd had woken up shortly after Kelly and Laura had left the bed.  He
had dressed and relieved his bladder and had stood in the hallway smiling as
he heard the discussion in the kitchen.

     "Good morning Sweetheart," said Kelly giving him a kiss.

     Laura came around the table to plant a kiss of her own as she greeted
her other lover.

     Todd sat down, swallowed his vitamins and downed his go-juice.  As he
chewed on a celery stalk, he looked at Kelly and sniffed the air.  "Not
smoking this morning?"

     Kelly shook her head.  "I think I'm going to cut down," she replied.
"G suggested that I shouldn't smoke as much.  She wouldn't tell me why, but
you know she wouldn't have said it without a reason, so I decided this
morning not to smoke in the house anymore."

     "Jesus.  I wonder what brought that about?" said Todd.  "It's not like
you smoke a lot to begin with.  What? Maybe 10 on a bad day?"

     "On a really bad day," nodded Kelly in agreement.

     "And didn't you tell me that smoking is a part of your... uhm...
lifestyle that you can't change?" asked Laura.  She had nearly mentioned
Kelly's obsessive-compulsive disorder before remembering that the two
gymnasts knew nothing about Kelly's personal demons.

     "It's not a big deal," Kelly said.  "So, I'll just take the few extra
steps when I really want one, and maybe I'll decide I don't really want one
that bad."

     Laura thought of the Obi-Man again and wondered if he had told Gloria
something else.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Todd grabbed the cordless phone and called the studio.  Vanetta
answered on the first ring.

     "Hiya boss lady," he said jokingly.  "Anything going on that I should
be aware of?"

     "Uh huh.  Okay," said Todd in response to what Vanetta was telling him.
"I'll give him a call from here.  I meant to do it yesterday, but I was too
tired to bother.  And can you call CrossTrain Sports for me and ask them to
ship down a big box of chalk priority?"

     He listened for a moment and then turned to Cara and Ami.  "Is there a
special kind or size you need?  Or anything else that we don't have that you
need for your work on the equipment?"

     Cara looked to Ami.  From what they had seen, Todd had it all.  "Nope,
all we need is the chalk, just say a case of 24 and they'll understand."

     "Did you hear that Vanetta?  A case of 24, yeah that's right.  Okay,
I'll probably be in later this afternoon.  We're going out for a while this
morning."

     Kelly took over the phone from Todd.  "Vanetta, did you get Laura's new
cell number added to the rapid dials?  Good.  That way you'll always find
two of us anyway," she laughed.  "If I don't see you later, you have a good
day."

     Kelly disconnected and sat down to have another grapefruit, while Todd
punched in a number he had pulled out of his wallet.  As he waited for his
call to get patched through, he explained that Peter had called and left a
message asking him to call when he came in.  He paused for a moment as he
was transferred to Peter's private secretary.  "Since I won't be going in
until later this afternoon, I figured I might as well give him a call now."

     "Hello Peter!  I hear you're looking for me."  Todd listened to the VP
of InterCoastal explain why he had called.  "Yeah, someone pointed them out
to me, so we grabbed a copy of the Journal on Tuesday." Todd said.  "It
looks like they were impressed with the wing.  Nice story too.  What's
that?" Todd laughed.  "No, we haven't looked at the price other than what
the Journal said.  Really?  Well, I'm glad we could help you out Peter.
Yeah, okay... I'll talk to you later.  Hang on."  Todd handed the phone to
Kelly.  "Peter says he has to talk to you."

     "Hi Peter," said Kelly.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Peter apologized for not having called sooner but it seemed that with
the coverage the press had given the Cuddy's new speed record and the
innovative design of the wing, he had been deluged with calls.  Dealers from
all over were clamoring for copies of the pictures that had shown up in the
major papers and other papers had picked up on the story and wanted regional
slants.

     "The board was very impressed," Peter said.  "The results of what JamPC
designed and the speed record they set has everybody talking, but with
Todd's picture to visually show how and why, well it's just got the whole
boating industry talking."

     "That's great Peter.  We're really happy for you," Kelly said.

     "But the reason I had to call was that I told the Board on Wednesday
about our little agreement and after I showed them what kind of pictures the
news people had taken and the extra effort TKO gave to really push the
story, they said to name the time and how long you want to go for and IC
will set you up in the nicest, fully staffed and equipped boat available!"

     Kelly looked at her lovers before answering.  "How about the last two
weeks of September Peter?  Three weekends.  Leave on Friday and return on
Monday after the two weeks.  That will make it 17 days."

     "Leave it to me Kelly.  I'll get back to you on the details and
specifics."

     "Thanks Peter.  Talk to you soon."

     Kelly walked over and wrapped her arms around her lovers.  "My
darlings, clear your calendars for the last two weeks in September... We are
going on a sea cruise to Jamaica!  A real vacation!"

     Todd looked up.  "Really?"

     "Absolutely Sweetheart.  No work.  Just relaxation."

     "Oh my God!" said Laura.  "An ocean voyage out of the country to
Jamaica!"  She squealed with delight.

     "And now I think I will go for a cigarette," said Kelly grabbing a
bottle of mineral water.  Things were going so well.  For the first time in
a long time she felt that everything was perfect and it all felt right.  Her
professional life and her personal life were all in order and she had never
been happier.

     As Kelly sat back in the lounger, before she lit up, she remembered her
first real kiss from James, and the night with Brenda.  That had been the
start of this new ever so satisfying life she now enjoyed with Todd and
Laura.  Then she smiled as she remembered the first time she had met Laura.
Cum on her face, nude and on her butt on the darkroom floor.  It all seemed
like that was a lifetime ago.  So much had changed.

     She lit her Cameo and took a deep drag.  It was hard to remember how
life had been before the happiness she enjoyed now.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Cara and Ami joined her in the back yard.

     Ami spoke up.  "We were wondering Kelly if you guys wanted to work out
with us while we do our exercises.  It will do wonders for toning your
body."

     Kelly cocked her head.  A good exercise routine might be a smart idea.
"I'm game," she said, "but I can't speak for the other two."

     "Oh, we've already convinced them," said Cara.

     Kelly laughed.  "I can see that you two will fit in very nicely!"

     "The only problem is space.  We don't want Todd to move your living
room furniture every day, so if you don't mind, before we go out to do the
other things we have to do, Todd said we could do it right in the studio,"
said Ami.

     "That won't be a problem," said Kelly.  "We're not on any timetable,
and besides the dressing room there's a shower in the studio itself.  And...
lots of clothes to change into when we're done!"

     They headed into the house to get dressed for the day.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Kelly with Cara and Ami in her car followed Todd's Tracker and Laura's
Accord in a cute little parade to the end of her street and then Todd and
Laura turned right, heading for the studio, while Kelly made a quick detour
to the outdoor fruit stand.

     As she got back into the car with a large bag of fresh fruits and
vegetables, she said, "I hope you girls like beets."

     Ami just made a face.  Cara laughed.

     "Don't worry," said Kelly, "you won't even taste it once it's been
juiced."

     As Kelly pulled into the studio, she noticed that Laura had parked her
Accord around the back.  It made good sense.  With the three of them
spending nearly every night together, there was no need to have three
vehicles running around.

     "I didn't think I'd see you today," said Vanetta as Kelly entered the
studio.

     "Well, it seems that Cara and Ami have decided we should participate in
their morning workouts," said Kelly.

     "Oh, this I have to see," said Vanetta laughing.  "You're not usually
awake at this hour much less exercising!"

     "Well," said Kelly, "sometimes things change."

     Vanetta took the bag from Kelly and said she would prepare the fruits
and vegetables while they worked out.

     Todd ran upstairs to change into a set of sweats.  Laura and Kelly had
decided to wear their Star Fleet issue underwear for the work out, and had
brought clothes with them to change into afterwards.

     The five of them lined up on the tumbling mat after Cara had clearly
made the point that no shoes or socks were allowed on the mat.  Ami was on
one end and Cara at the other with Todd in the middle sandwiched by Kelly
and Laura.  Before starting, Ami had asked if it would be okay to turn on
some music and when no one objected, Vanetta showed her the CD collection
and how to adjust the stereo for which speakers she wanted the loudest.

     Ami selected a compilation CD of timeless Rock and Roll tunes.  As she
explained to the group, this was a low impact workout to promote tone and
limber up muscles, then on a count from Cara, the two started their regular
routine showing the other three how and what to do.  Most of it was
stretching and reaching, reminding Kelly of the Yoga classes she had taken.

     "Remember," shouted Ami, "if you feel a muscle going tight, don't push
it any further.  Just try to hold it at the tight point for a minute.
You'll get farther every day we do this."

     By the time 20 minutes had passed, Cara and Ami were into full splits
on the floor.  Kelly eventually made it all the way down as well, and Laura
was just a few inches off, but Todd, as flexible as his Tae Bo exercises had
made him, was having trouble spreading his legs that far.  Thankfully the
next move allowed him to drop on his butt as they all pulled their feet in
to their groins trying to keep their knees flat on the floor.  This was of
course no problem for Cara and Ami who quickly slid into place and proceeded
to bob their heads and shoulders down to the mat.  Surprisingly, Todd could
get his feet into his groin and keep his knees on the floor but it was an
area where Kelly and Laura were having difficulty.  Ami told them to rest
their elbows on their knees and then as they bobbed up and down with their
upper torsos, the elbows would stretch the leg muscles.

     Another 15 minutes passed and Todd was flat on his back, wiped out.
Laura who simply rolled from her position to a flat one on her stomach soon
joined him.  Kelly managed another five minutes and then gave up the ship as
well.  Cara and Ami kept at it but with more intensity for another 20
minutes.  Jumping up, Ami said, "That wasn't so bad was it?"

     "You guys are in better shape than we thought," added Cara.  Todd just
groaned.

     Ami clapped her hands.  "Time to hit the showers kids."

     As Todd crawled up the stairs, followed by Laura, Vanetta laughed and
turned on the juicer.  Kelly showed the girls where the shower was along
with the towels before she headed upstairs as well to join her lovers in a
warm shower.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Ami was soaping up Cara's breasts as the water from the shower beat
down on her back.  "If camp had been like this," she said, "I might have
enjoyed it a lot more."

     Cara sighed and pulled Ami against her, letting her well lathered boobs
squish into Ami's.

     "Cara," Ami whispered in her ear, "you realize this is a step farther
than just showering together."

     "Mmm hmm,"

     Talking that as an affirmative, Ami wrapped her arms around Cara and
hugged back, gently nibbling on Cara's ear.

     "God, I'm so hot," said Cara.

     "I can fix that," said Ami turning and changing the temperature of the
water to icy cold.

     "Argh," screamed Cara.  "That's not how I thought you were going to fix
it!"

     Ami rinsed off and stepped out of the shower.  "Remember what I said
last night about being careful what you wish for?"

     Cara nodded.

     "Well, I want you to really think this over Cara.  The next step takes
us to the point of no return.  I know what I want, I've wanted it for a long
time, but if you're only curious, then I don't want to get hurt."

     Cara dropped her towel and hugged Ami.  "I couldn't hurt you Ami.
You're my best friend."

     Ami's eyes got wet and she felt tears running down her cheek.  "But
will you still be my friend if we go farther and you decide you don't like
it?"

     "Oh, Ami.  I can't believe that I won't like it.  I feel so close to
you.  But no matter what, I will always be your friend."

     "Then let's wait a bit Cara.  When the time is right, we'll know it."

     The girls reluctantly broke their embrace and got dressed.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Vanetta had finished whipping up a large pitcher of juice and had
poured out six large glasses over crushed ice.  She was clapping as Kelly,
Todd and Laura came down the stairs.  "I never thought I would see the day,"
she said.

     "What day?" asked Todd.

     "The day that you conked out from exercising for one, and Kelly moving
so much so early in the morning!"

     "But they did good," said Ami as they entered the kitchenette.  "I
didn't expect any of you to make it past the first ten minutes."

     Kelly raised her eyebrows.

     "It's because they're special exercises for gymnasts," explained Cara.
"It's easy to see that Todd works out, but not for doing back flips, and
while it's easy to see that you and Laura are in good shape, there's a
reason why there are so few gymnasts over 20.  That was our regular routine
we went through, and you guys managed to keep up for most of it!"

     "All of a sudden I'm feeling old," sighed Kelly.

     "I'll never get those splits down to the ground," said Todd.

     "Ah, that's a defeatist attitude I hear," said Ami.  "I bet if you keep
doing this with us every morning you'll be doing splits like you've been
doing them all your life."

     "I kind of liked it," said Laura.  "It made me feel alive.  My legs are
still warm from the tension, but I could feel myself getting just a bit
further when I held my position."  She looked at Todd, "just think what fun
we could have Honey if I can sit in that one position!"

     "I swear Laura, I think you were born horny," said Vanetta.

     "Nothing wrong with that," said Kelly.

     "And I didn't notice Robert complaining about the way you had your arm
around him yesterday," added Laura.

     "Who's Robert?" asked Todd.

     Laura blushed suddenly remembering that Robert had said he had never
met Todd.

     "He's a friend I met at school," said Vanetta.  "We've been dating for
a while."

     "Oh," said Todd.  "I didn't know."

     "You'll meet him at the company party," Vanetta added.  "He's looking
forward to meeting you."

     Kelly decided it was time to change the direction of the conversation.
She knew that Vanetta was concerned about the race issue.

     "So, Ami... You think you want to be a photographer?"   Kelly asked.

     "Yeah, but there aren't many schools that offer photography as a full
time program anymore."

     "What got you interested in photography to begin with?" asked Todd.

     "A couple of years ago, we were competing in Europe and an American
journalist was covering the event.  He was sitting just behind our bench and
had this fancy camera, but he didn't know when to shoot.  I saw the article
afterwards and realized that he couldn't anticipate what was going to happen
next.  Then I started looking through the sports magazines, and except for
'macho' sports, most pictures of female athletes were really pathetic.  I
think there's a good opportunity for someone who has been in sports, and
especially women's!"

     "You realize it's more than just taking pictures," said Todd.

     "Oh yeah, for sure!  After I saw what had happened, I got a few books
on photography and even took a few courses, but then to get any farther than
a pinhole camera, it would cost too much money so I had to let it slide.  It
might look good when we win medals, but most people don't realize how much
money our parents put out for us to stay on the team if we even qualify."

     "You made a pinhole camera?" Todd asked somewhat surprised.

     "Yeah, it was easy," said Ami.

     "How did you develop the film?" Todd asked, now really interested.

     "Well, there wasn't much to develop," Ami said.  "The idea was that it
was supposed to be a one shot deal, but I figured out a way to tape down a
roll of film in the box I made and pull the film out a section at a time.  I
weaved the start of the film on a thin needle that I glued a button to.  It
was too thin though so I only managed to move the film forward six times
before it jammed on me.  After that, I went to the local newspaper and
someone in the film department helped me take the box apart and develop it."

     "What did the end result look like?" Todd asked.

     "Ah, you know.  You have to figure out how long to expose the film and
you've got to do it by pulling back the tape over the pinhole.  I took
pictures of my mom's flowers, and you could see that they were flowers, but
two of the negatives were too dark from over exposure and the last two, well
I guess that a pin hole is only good for one pull on the tape cause they got
really fuzzy when the hole got ragged edges around it, but I got one that
was pretty clear."

     "And you liked it?  Taking all that time just to get one picture?"

     "It was great!  I'd probably have taken on a summer job so I could buy
a real camera, but all year round it's been practice, practice and more of
the same."

     "Want to see my darkroom?" Todd asked.

     "That'd be cool!"

     As Todd and Ami headed for the darkroom, Vanetta said she was going to
get back to her schoolwork.  Kelly headed over to her own desk to check on
the mail and file the reports from New York.  Cara helped Laura clean up the
kitchen.

     "Laura, do you mind if I ask you something personal?"

     "No, go right ahead Cara," Laura laughed. "If it's something I don't
want to answer, I won't, but you should always feel free to ask."

     Cara shyly said, "Okay, I was just wondering, you know, how you knew
that you liked girls."

     Laura paused in what she was doing and turned to face Cara, leaning
back against the counter.  She looked skyward as she thought of how to
answer the younger girl.  Finally she said, "I didn't know.  If somebody had
told me six months ago that I was going to be turned on by another woman, I
would have laughed at the suggestion.  But you have to realize, we're not
talking about another girl here, we're talking about Kelly."

     "What difference does that make?" Cara asked.

     "I fell in love with Kelly the first time I saw a picture of her, and
when I met her the next day, I felt all warm inside."

     "Did you fall for Kelly after a bad relationship with a guy?"

     Laura laughed.  "I did have a really bad experience with a guy before I
met Kelly, but before I met her, I was already making it with Todd, and
believe me, that was no bad experience!"

     "So, are you now bisexual?"

     "I'm not sure Cara.  I think about that once in a while.  I guess
technically I am, but I'm also monogamous, sort of.  I have a male lover and
a female lover, and I wouldn't cheat on either of them."

     "So... If I have this right, you're in love with two people.  And the
gender really doesn't have anything to do with it."

     "Yeah!  I guess that would be as good an explanation as any," said
Laura.  "I mean, I can look at other people and appreciate their beauty, and
now, I look at both men and women."

     "Are you ever afraid that Todd and Kelly might want to fool around with
somebody else?"

     "No.  If it should happen, then it happens.  All I ask for is that they
continue to love me the way I love them.  Jealousy is a dangerous game."

     "So it all boils down to love?" Cara asked.

     Laura thought about that for a minute and then said, "Yeah, I think
that my love for them allows me to be free with them and to enjoy both of
them as friends and as lovers."

     "I think I understand," said Cara.

     "Is this about Ami?" Laura asked softly.

     "Is it that obvious?"

     "It is to those of us who have been down that road," said Laura.

     "She's gay, or at least she says she is, though she's never had a
relationship with a girl.  Is that possible?"

     "Very," said Laura.  "We're born with our desires.  When they manifest
themselves is just a matter of timing."

     "I love her you know," said Cara.  "She and Erin have been my best
friends through all the years we've been training, but I don't have the same
feelings for Erin as I do for Ami.  There's something about her that really
makes me want to love her."

     "So what's stopping you?"

     "She is," said Cara dejectedly.  "She says that when the time is right,
we'll know it."

     "Well, I have to agree with her on that," said Laura.  "You don't want
to rush into a relationship.  The worst thing you could do is pressure her
into doing something that she's not ready for, and the best thing that you
can do is be supportive and understanding and remain her friend."

     "Yeah, I guess you're right."

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Ami was overwhelmed by Todd's darkroom.  "Wow, this is even bigger than
the one at the newspaper!"

     Todd laughed. "That's probably because the newspaper doesn't have to
worry about the fancy stuff."

     Ami took her time looking around checking out all the various chemicals
and equipment when she spotted the posters of Kelly and Laura.  "Wow," she
said.  "They really look hot!  I hope my body turns out as well."

     "You've got a lot going for you already," said Todd.  "Now if you watch
your diet and stick to the vitamins that Kelly put you on, you'll just
continue on to grow more beautiful."

     Ami looked at Todd.  "You know I'm gay don't you?"

     "Does that mean something special?" Todd asked.

     "Well, I just meant... I mean... I wanted you to know right off the
bat."

     "Okay.  I pretty well knew it, but I don't see what difference that
makes."

     "It means that I will never have a male lover," Ami said.  "And I guess
that what I'm also saying is that if you're thinking of having a group of
girls like James does..." she hung her head blushing, "I won't be one of
them."

     Todd realized how difficult that had been for Ami to say.  "Not to
worry Ami.  James is a nice guy, I like him, and he does have a few more
girlfriends than most guys have in a lifetime, but I'm not looking to be
like him.  I'm very happy and satisfied with Kelly and Laura."

     Ami sighed with relief.

     "But does your sexual preference exclude having male friends?" Todd
asked.

     "No... I suppose not.  I never really thought about it that way.  I
guess I figured that being a lesbian meant I would only hang around with
girls."

     "It seems to me that you're limiting yourself then.  There are lots of
guys who you could be friends with and they wouldn't expect anything more
from you."

     "You think so?"

     "Sure, why not?  You have a pleasant personality and you're easy to
talk to.  I bet there's lots of guys that would love to be friends with
you."

     "Why?"

     "Because in a lot of ways, you're a safe friend of the opposite sex.
Once the issue of sex is out of the way, they can let their hair down and
talk openly and honestly without worrying that you're measuring them up.
Friendship is more important than a sexual relationship because good friends
stick around when life gets rough."

     "Is that why you get along so good with both Kelly and Laura?  Cause
you guys are friends first?"

     "Well, Laura is fairly new in my life, but I knew from the first day I
met her that she was a girl I could really enjoy as a friend, and Kelly I've
known as a friend for years.  We just became lovers this summer."

     "Wow.  How long have you and Kelly been friends?"

     "Since 1995 when we met on a shoot in Jamaica."

     "And it took all this time before you guys got it on?"

     Todd laughed.  "Yeah, and it was Laura who convinced us that our
friendship wouldn't be damaged if we did."

     "You guys are something else.  We heard you laughing in the shower last
night and I was thinking how much I would like to have a relationship like
that.  You know... laughing and joking and still be intimate."

     "Is this about Cara?" Todd asked.

     Ami blushed.  "Yeah, I guess.  We've been friends for years and she's
suggesting that we go farther, but I'm afraid that if we do, that the
friendship will suffer and I don't have a lot of friends to start with, so I
can't afford to lose one."

     Todd sat down.  "I know what you mean Ami.  That's why I wasn't willing
to risk Kelly's friendship over sex, but now, I have it both ways."

     "The best of both worlds.  I wonder if I'll be that lucky."

     "And sometimes that's a risk you've got to take," said Todd.  "Only you
know if taking the next step will change things.  Take your time and figure
it out.  Your heart will know when the time is right."

     Ami gave Todd a hug.  "Thanks Todd."

     "Any time Ami.  Now we better get back out before they send a search
party after us."

     "Are you afraid that Kelly or Laura might think we're up to something
in here?"

     "No... they both have a good idea which way you lean, but they wouldn't
question it one way or another.  There's no jealousy in our relationship."

     "Does that mean you would consider having another lover?" Ami asked.

     "No, not really.  I love both of them and I intend to marry both of
them.  I've had my share of lovers, and none have ever made me as happy as
the two I have now, so I'm not looking anymore."

     Ami shook her head.  "I hope I can be as happy as you guys are one
day."

     "You're a nice person Ami.  I'm sure you'll find that happiness with
somebody."

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Kelly was on the phone to Mistress Helga.  The club wouldn't allow
girls under the age of 18, which is something that Kelly knew, but since
both girls needed some special care, she had called asking for a reference
for a good, discreet place where they could get the bikini wax and some
special attention to their nails and calluses.

     Mistress Helga gave her a number and said to give her name as a
reference.  Kelly made that her next call and set up an appointment for the
girls later that afternoon.

     Todd decided to stay behind and clean his cameras and reload his film
magazines.  He had shot a lot of film over the weekend, and with the rush to
develop them on Monday and the exhaustion after the rush of preparing the
studio, he was glad to let the girls go off on their own to do their
shopping and what ever else they planned.   Besides, he wanted to order more
film and there were other things he had planned for the day.

     Kelly and Laura kissed Todd goodbye and arranged to meet back at
Kelly's for supper at 6:00.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     "Well girls, I've made an appointment for you today to get waxed,"
Kelly said.  "I know that it can be a bit embarrassing having somebody else
between your legs, but the woman who did Laura's first waxing recommended a
very professional yet quiet place.  I hope you don't mind.  It's just that
it will be quicker and less painful than trying to do it yourselves even
with our help."

     "We can deal with it," said Ami.  "Right Cara?"

     "Yeah, I suppose.  It's not like we'll be meeting these people for
lunch afterwards right Kelly?" she asked hopefully.

     Kelly laughed.  "I know what you mean Cara.  It's like going to lunch
with your gynecologist... you'd feel a bit awkward knowing how much of you
she really knows!"

     All of the girls laughed at the thought of what you would discuss over
lunch with a gynecologist.  "See any good pussy today?" quipped Laura.

     "Oh god!  Could you imagine!" said Ami.  "It would be like asking for
referrals!"

     Kelly burst out laughing.  "Yeah, I'm in the market for something new!
Anybody you'd care to recommend!"

     They were still laughing when they pulled up to a popular sports store.
An hour later, three bikes and three sets of roller blades had been
purchased with delivery promised to the studio along with the helmets, wrist
guards, and knee and elbow pads.  "Safety first," said Kelly when they were
being fitted.  "And this way, while we wait for the shooting to start, we
can take some nice leisurely rides or blast around the industrial park on
the blades.  It's too nice to sit inside all the time."

     After the sports store, they headed to Victoria's Secret to pick up a
couple of pair of thong underwear for Cara and Ami.  "I don't recommend
these for full time wear," said Kelly, "but if you wear them this afternoon,
you won't have to expose all of yourself to get waxed."

     "It's funny," said Ami, "I wouldn't have a problem dropping my drawers
at your place but to have somebody work on me down there, it just feels so
clinical."

     "No kidding!" said Cara.  "It's like the difference between showering
with the girls at camp and visiting the doctor.  Somehow, even with the gown
and all, I still feel more exposed with the doctor."

     "I could even see myself posing for Todd like you and Laura did," said
Ami, "cause that's art!"

     "Oh, that's right," said Kelly, "you were in the darkroom."

     "Pose how?" asked Cara.

     "In the buff!" said Ami grinning.  "You ought to see the way these two
look through Todd's eyes and camera!  I hope one day I can be that good.  He
really made them look sensual!"

     Kelly and Laura laughed.

     "Yep, in those pictures he made us look sensual, but he can also make
us look like something raunchy!" said Kelly.  "You should see the pictures
he took of us at Brookhaven!"

     "That's the first thing I'm going to buy with the money I make," said
Ami.  "A good camera!  Then I'll take those kind of pictures of Cara!"

     "You wish!" said Cara, but her blush betrayed her.  Ami wanted to
photograph her nude!

     "All in due time," said Kelly.  "Now, how about some lunch?  There's a
great deli where Laura and I ate on Tuesday.  They have a hot Pastrami on
rye that is piled high with real meat!"

     "Yeah!" said Ami. "I could go for that!"

     "Me too," said Cara.  "Not knocking your healthy breakfast, but I would
love to shove my face into some hot steamy meat right about now!"

     The double meaning was not lost on anyone in the car.

     Kelly steered for the Euclid and five minutes later they were seated in
a booth with big sandwiches piled high like Kelly had promised.  Tall
ice-cold glasses of watermelon juice topped off the meal.  Kelly looked at
her watch.  "After lunch, we can browse around for a while if you girls
like.  Your appointment isn't till 2:30."

     After a very satisfying lunch filled with laughter, they hit the
street.  For the next hour, after making sure there was time on the parking
meter, the foursome browsed the nearby stores, mostly window-shopping.  Cara
and Ami picked up a pile of postcards which they intended to send home to
their parents and friends, and then it was time to go.

     Kelly had gotten directions when she made the appointment, and with ten
minutes to spare pulled into the parking lot which was nearly empty.  It was
a combo salon for hair, sun-tanning beds, and manicures and of course hair
removal.  Cara and Ami used a tanning room to change into their thong
underwear.  A private screened booth occupied one corner of the shop.  It
contained little more than a reclined stylists chair that had been modified
with stirrups that you would find on a gynecologists bed.  With the referral
having come from Mistress Helga, Joanne, the owner herself took on the task
of the waxing.

     It was a small confined area and all four girls could not fit in it at
once.  Cara asked Laura to stay with her, and Kelly said she would go with
Ami.  Cara went first as the result of a coin toss.  It was clear that both
girls were nervous.  Kelly and Ami waited in the hair salon proper as Cara
and Laura went in.

     "I don't get it," said Cara, her eyes moist.  "I've broken bones and
sprained muscles that would have most people howling in pain but I'm afraid
of this!"

     Laura held her hand softly.  "It's okay Cara.  The first time I went,
Kelly took me and they did my vulva, my legs and even my underarms!  I think
they could hear the scream down in Florida!"

     "Did it hurt that bad?" asked Cara.

     "No, that was the funny part.  I barely stung, but the shock is what
caused me to scream.  I promise that all you'll feel is a quick tug, a small
rip and you might walk a bit gently right afterwards, but it's just hair."

     "I'm glad you're with me Laura.  I didn't want to show Ami I was
afraid."

     Laura smiled gently at the young girl and patted her hand.  "I know
sweetheart.  It's like sex.  The thought of doing it the first time is
scary."

     "My first time was awful!" said Cara.  "He just wanted bragging rights
for his friends."

     Laura gave a wry smile.  "Maybe that's why we hit it off so well.  My
first time was lousy and his attempts afterwards got even worse.  He just
wanted someone to do his homework for him."

     "And you weren't afraid to try it again?"

     "Hell no!  What he couldn't do for me, I did for myself thinking that
he was just inexperienced and it would get better, but he just didn't care.
Then I met Todd, and he cared.  Then I knew how wonderful it could really
be, and I haven't regretted a single day since!"

     Just before Cara could ask about how Laura had gotten involved with
Kelly, Joanne came in, checked the temperature of the pre-treat and the wax
and asked if Cara was ready.

     With a surrendering sigh, Cara said she was and the beautician pulled a
small round stainless steel stool up between Cara's spread legs.  Laura
helped adjust the thong to preserve Cara's most secret place.  A topical
ointment was spread on Cara's tender skin that was quickly absorbed and then
the warm wax was applied with multiple strips of precut gauze.  Cara kept
her eyes focused on the ceiling but her grip on Laura's hand intensified.
It was a long three minutes while the wax cooled and adhered to the hair and
the gauze and then with a quick yank it was gone.  Cara hadn't made a sound,
but her grip on Laura's hand had tightened to the point where Laura was sure
she would have bruises.  A tear ran down Cara's cheek, but not from pain.
It had been an emotionally charged few minutes and after the quick snap that
removed excess hair, Cara could release her pent up emotions.  A liberal
lathering of a soothing balm was applied to the red area and Cara finally
released Laura's hand.

     "I'll give you a few minutes to settle down," said Joanne, "then you
can get dressed and I'll do your friend."

     Cara laughed suddenly.  "If there was nobody else in the shop, I'd let
out a blood curdling scream," she said.  "Then try to convince Ami that it
doesn't hurt!"

     Joanne smiled a wicked smile.  "You know, we don't advertise it, but we
also do body piercing here for those who are into that kind of thing, and
that usually gets a scream, so... If you want, I've only got a few clients
in right now, and they're all regulars, so..."

     "Oh Laura, can I?"

     Laura couldn't hide her own smile.  She knew that Kelly would wonder,
but she liked a good joke.  She shrugged.  "She's your friend, if you want,
go for it."

     Cara warned them to plug their ears and took a deep breath before
letting loose with the loudest, most piercing, glass-shattering scream she
could manage.

     Joanne and Laura had to cover their mouths to stop from laughing.  They
waited another five minutes before Laura stepped out followed by Cara who
walked out of the booth bow legged and with tears in her eyes.  They were
tears of laughter, but combined with the way she walked and the scream, she
could see the fear in Ami's eyes.

     Kelly came rushing over, hugged Cara and asked Laura, "What the hell
happened?"

     Laura winked at Kelly out of Ami's sight as Ami was now also trying to
comfort Cara.

     "No... really Ami," said Cara between sniffles.  "It doesn't hurt."
More sniffles and a few cautious steps.  "You'll be okay Ami, really."

     Kelly was biting the inside of her cheek as she led Ami into the booth,
trying her best not to smile.  "Cara should have been an actress!" she
thought to herself.

     Minutes passed slowly, then a voice called out:  "Cara, god damn it...
you had me scared shitless!"

     No one could hold in the laughter any longer.  Even Ami, realizing
she'd been had was soon laughing as well.  Cara hugged her as she emerged
from the booth.  "I'm sorry Ami, it was just too good to pass up.  Maybe if
I hadn't been treated to a cold shower this morning I might not have thought
of it!"

     Ami gave Cara a soft kiss.  "I'm sorry Cara.  It was the only thing I
could think of at the time.  Things have been happening so fast."

     "I understand Ami."

     "Okay girls," said Kelly.  "Joanne has agreed to fit both of you in for
haircuts as well.  So let's save the smooching till later and get the full
treatment shall we?"

     Joanne knew who Kelly was.  Knew well who TKO was and would love to
have some of Kelly's business.  Charlotte might be a big city, 25th largest
in the US, with over half a million people who call it home, but the
privately owned business community was a lot smaller and they knew each
other well, or knew of each other.

     Joanne spent an inordinate amount of time on the two girls sculpting
their hair in such a way that with their respective styles, it would still
easily fall into place without a lot of fuss and muss.  During the time she
worked on their hair, a manicurist worked on the girls finger and toe nails,
cutting, trimming and buffing them into some semblance of feminine fashion.
A pumice stone was worn down to nothing as another girl battered the thick
calluses on the girl's feet.  Joanne suggested a solution for their hand to
soften up the calluses there, or as she explained to Kelly, it would at
least take the discoloration away.

     It was 5:30 when the foursome drove away from the salon.  Kelly made a
quick stop at the health store for enough "Dead Sea Mud" to do two facials
and they headed home.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Todd had finished cleaning his cameras and had his magazines loaded
with fresh film long before the girls had even reached the salon.  Vanetta
had gone home at 3:00 leaving Todd to check his lighting equipment.  He was
amazed by the silence.  Prior to Laura entering his life he had been a loner
most of the time, keeping company with just Kelly.  Now a strange feeling
overcame him.  He felt lonely.

     Wandering around the studio, he tried to pinpoint when this change had
occurred in his life.  He liked solitude and really didn't care for social
events, but he did enjoy having Kelly and Laura around, and not just for the
sex, although it was the best he had ever had!  He felt emotions building up
inside him totally unfamiliar.  Fear.  Fear that he might lose this good
thing he had.  Finally, realizing that he had no say in what may lay ahead
for the three of them other than his actions, he decided he would do what
ever was in his power to keep both of them happy.  Whistling a little tune,
he went through his equipment storage closet until he found what he was
looking for.  Checking through the bag to make sure everything was where it
should be, he put the bag by the door.

     Todd knew he was going to be spending more nights at Kelly's while the
gymnasts were staying there.  While switching days between the studio and
her house was possible if it was just the three of them, he knew that
currently, it wasn't feasible or fair.  He knew how Laura and Kelly felt
about each other, and he couldn't even think of not sleeping with both of
them now.  So Todd filled a gym bag with some scrubs, underwear and more
T's, and placed it by the door as well.  Just one phone call to make to his
film supplier and Todd was set to leave.  It was the ringing of the phone
that stopped him at the door.  For a minute he contemplated just letting it
ring, but some instinctual, primal feeling told him to answer the phone.

     Reaching over Vanetta's desk, not even bothering to check the caller
ID, he answered: "TKO, Todd speaking."

     "Hello Todd," said a deep, smooth aged voice on the other end.

     "Hi Chuck!  How are you doing?"

     Chuck laughed.  "Just fine Todd, how are you and Kelly?"

     "We're fine.  Actually Chuck, we've never been better!"

     "I'm glad to hear that.  I called to apologize."

     "Apologize?" Todd asked.  "What in the world for?"

     "For not calling sooner with my deepest most sincere thank you."

     Todd was scratching his head.  "But you already did that Chuck, when we
were out at your place last week."

     Chuck laughed again.  "Been a busy week for you has it?  I saw the
pictures for IC with your name on them.  Nice job!  I have a small interest
in seeing them do well, but I was calling about a package I received from
you on Tuesday.  I was out in the afternoon and my secretary signed for it
and Wednesday was a mite hectic so it was overlooked until this morning."

     "Ah," said Todd.  "Yeah, it's been a week alright.  I even forgot about
it."

     Chuck turned very sober.  "Todd, you are an artist.  That picture of
Anna... I look at it and see three faces looking back."  Chuck stopped for a
minute, and Todd could feel the other man's emotion and remembered his
reaction when he had seen his granddaughter fixed up by Kelly getting the
open-air portrait done.

     "I see Anna, her mother and her grandmother all in those eyes."

     Chuck had stopped again.

     "I'm glad you like it," said Todd.  "She's a beautiful girl.  And hey,
what did you think of the shot of yourself?"

     Chuck laughed again.  "That my young friend was very sneaky," but he
sounded pleased.  "Brenda suggested that I use it with the brochure, you
know, to show who Regan Boats really is, and then Anna and Brenda started to
rearrange my living room trying to make me the center of the wall.  And that
is all we've done all afternoon is move pictures around until I told them
they had to stop so I could order frames."

     "I'm glad you like them Chuck.  I really enjoyed taking them."

     "Well, the other reason I'm calling is to see if I can get a reprint of
the one of Anna.  I'd like to get a 16 x 20 of that one, I already have the
perfect frame for it.  Just bill me what ever you want.  I can't put a price
on art."

     It was Todd's turn to laugh.  "Well Chuck, as tempting as that sounds,
I don't come cheap, but for my friends, pictures that I take, they're always
free.  I'll get it out to you the first of next week."

     "I'm not going to argue with you son.  Just promise me that you and
Kelly and your other friend will come visit us soon for a weekend.  We'll
sit on the dock, drink beer and ruminate on life.  No work, just friends
sharing some quality time."

     It was Todd's turn to choke up and his eyes got moist.  "We'd like that
very much Chuck.  We're tied up for the next six weeks, but real soon after
okay?  I'll tell Kelly and Laura to keep their schedules open.  Then in a
few weeks we'll call and see what's good for all of us."

     "Thanks again Todd.  I'll wait to hear from you and hope to see you
soon."

     "Thank you Chuck.  You take care of yourself and say hi to the girls
for me."

     As Todd hung up the phone he wondered why his own parents had never
appreciated him.  He shook his head rapidly to clear the thoughts.  He
didn't want to think about them.  Refused to let even the thought of them
intrude on his happiness.

     Taking a deep breath, Todd was nearly set to go out the door again when
he remembered that Delton had left a package for him.  Vanetta had said she
had put it in the crisper in his fridge upstairs.  Taking the stairs two at
a time, Todd opened the drawer and carefully placed the foil package on the
table.  Opening it he saw a kilo of pure bud vacuum-sealed in 12 individual
cellophane bags.  Todd laughed.  This was nearly two and a half ounces per
month for the next year!  (Life could be good!)  It was way more then he and
Kelly would use, but since Delton grew it only once a year, it was better to
have a bit too much than not enough, and this was good shit!  No stems or
seeds ever.

     Todd resealed the foil and stuck the package back in the crisper minus
the one bag he had taken out to leave at Kelly's.

     It was 4:30 when Todd finally pulled out of the studio parking lot.  A
quick stop at a local smoke shop where he bought a pouch of tobacco and five
packs of rolling papers.  He would toss the tobacco out later, but it was a
lot less suspicious buying papers when you bought something to roll.
Another stop at the drug store Kelly frequented where he bought ten rolls of
Kodak Gold 200, a four pack of "double A" batteries and then drove straight
to Kelly's.

     His clothes were already put away and Todd was sitting with a beer
watching one of the movie channels when he heard the door open.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     "Hi Sweetheart," Kelly said as she kissed him hello.

     "Hey Babe," said Laura with her own kiss for him.

     "Ladies," Todd said rising and greeting Cara and Ami as he hugged and
kissed both Kelly and Laura.

     "Did you get everything done that you wanted to?" Kelly asked.

     "All done and even more," he said.

     "Are you hungry?"

     "Definitely getting that way," he said.  "What are we having tonight?"

     "I thought I might make up some Nasi Goring," Kelly said.

     Todd smiled.  It was one thing from his Dutch past that he didn't mind
revisiting any time.  Kelly had seen Todd order it once, and watched in awe
as he devoured two helpings of the Indonesian rice dish.

     Wanting to surprise him, she had called the restaurant before they left
town and gotten a recipe from them that would make it relatively easy for
her to make it at home.  Using a Conimex dried spice pack that she ordered
by the dozen from the international grocery store downtown, all she had to
do was boil the rice and add the meat.

     "So can you hold out for another hour?" Kelly asked with a smile.

     "I sure can!" Todd said.  "Besides, I've got something to show Ami, so
if you don't need her, I'll take her out back."

     "No," said Kelly with a smile at Laura.  "We can manage without her."

     Todd picked up the camera bag he had sitting on the floor and led Ami
outside.

     When Todd and Ami were safely out of hearing distance, Kelly said to
Laura, "I knew the minute she started talking about that pinhole camera that
he would do this.  He likes passion."

     Cara looked puzzled.

     "Don't worry Cara," said Kelly sympathetically, "Todd's not going to
try and make a move on her.  He knows she doesn't swing that way.  She just
won't have to wait to buy a camera.  He's going to let her use one of his to
see if she really likes it, and if she has the eye for it."

     Cara sighed in relief.  "Well then I'm happy for her.  I'm sure that
she has the talent."

     "You really love her don't you?" Kelly asked.

     "That obvious is it?" asked Cara with a blush.

     "Maybe just to us," said Laura.

     Kelly put the spice mix into a saucepan to re-hydrate the mixture of
vegetable slivers, and in another pot put 8 cups of wild rice.  She pulled
four quick fry pork cutlets out of the freezer and a pound of liver.  Laura
volunteered to fry the meat.  She was curious what this would taste like.

     Cara asked if there was anything she could do to help, and after being
told that there really was nothing to do until the meat was cooked, sat on a
chair.  "Can I ask you guys a personal question?"

     Laura smiled remembering the conversation from earlier that morning.

     "Sure," said Kelly, "fire away."

     "Well... see, I've loved Ami for a long time.  We've been friends since
we were four.  Her and Erin and me, we were the Three Musketeers.  We've
been training together for as far back as I can remember, and while I love
Erin, it's more like a sister.  With Ami, it's something else.  I get all
soft inside and..." she blushed a bright crimson.  "Ami really turns me on."

     "Sounds like sexual attraction to me," said Kelly watching the rice.

     "Yeah, I know it is, but last summer I did something stupid with a guy
cause I didn't want to... couldn't deal with the idea that I might be gay.
Now Ami thinks I'm just curious, and she's afraid that if she goes beyond
just friendship with me that she'll get hurt."

     Kelly turned to look at Cara.  Saw the pain in her eyes.

     "That's understandable Cara.  That's why you can't rush into these
things."

     "I think that Cara is looking for help in seducing Ami," said Laura.

     "Oh," said Kelly.  "I'm not sure that I have an answer for that."

     "That's why I wanted to ask you guys how you got to the point you're
at."

     Kelly looked at Laura who nodded.

     "Laura and I were attracted to each other," Kelly said, "but except for
a very brief weekend, I had never been with another woman.  However, that
weekend showed me a lot more about love than I had ever learned on my own.
It didn't happen overnight with Laura and me, we kind of built up to it.  I
think the first time we showed any sign of being turned on around another
woman was the night we masturbated together while watching a movie."

     Laura smiled at the memory and picked up the story.  "The next time, we
masturbated each other, and from there things just picked up until we got to
where we are now."

     Cara's eyes were big as saucers.  "You guys masturbated in front of
each other?"

     "Well," said Kelly, "it wasn't quite that blatant.  We had towels over
our laps."

     "It showed a sign of beginning to trust each other," said Laura.

     "Well, we sort of masturbated together last night, only Ami didn't know
that I was awake and I did it after she fell asleep."

     Kelly laughed.  "Are you sure she was asleep?"

     Cara blushed again at the thought.

     "The only thing that you can do if you're serious about wanting to
pursue a relationship with Ami is to be loving towards her and let her set
the pace," said Kelly.  "You can show more affection, but if she backs off,
then don't push yourself on her.  Give her time and space when she needs
it."

     "And talk to her.  Not just about your desires but what you like about
her and things you have in common."

     "Thanks guys," said Cara.

     "Okay," said Laura.  "The meat is ready, what do you want done with it
Kell?"

     "If you could cut it into real small cubes that would be great," said
Kelly who had turned the heat off the rice and had a towel over top to keep
the moisture in.

     As Cara and Laura cut up the meat, Kelly added the spices to the rice
and then transferred the entire batch to a wok where she started to lightly
fry it up.  When Cara and Laura had the meat cut, she added it to the mix
and took a jar of super hot dried red pepper paste out of the fridge.  She
added a tablespoon to the mix and with chopsticks stirred it all around
mixing it all in.

     Laura and Cara set the table, and Kelly suggested beer to go with the
meal.  "It enhances the flavor," she said with a smile.  "Then we can call
the shutterbugs in and we can eat."

     Cara got five beers out of the fridge and Laura got the vitamins as
Kelly quickly fried up five eggs to go on top of each plate.  The smell in
the kitchen was delicious.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Todd and Ami sat down facing each other in the yard.  Opening the bag
he said to Ami, "this is the camera that paid for my university education.
It's a Pentax K1000, considered to be the workhorse of the professional
photo journalist."

     "Wow," said Ami.  "You paid your entire university tuition with this
camera?"

     "Not just tuition," said Todd, "but also my living expenses and money
to put into the bank."

     "God, I'd have it gold plated or something and put on a mantle!"

     Todd laughed.  "It wouldn't be a working camera anymore if I did that.
Besides, it's just a camera.  It's a tool.  It's your eye that decides if
you have what it takes to be a photographer, and that's why I'm going to let
you use it.  Let's see if you have what it takes."

     "Oh my God!" Ami squealed with delight, "You don't mind?  I mean, what
if I screw it up or something?"

     "Then it would be a broken tool.  No more, no less."

     Ami hugged Todd and kissed him on the cheek.  "Thanks Todd.  I'll take
really good care of it, I promise."

     Todd laughed again.  He loved seeing the joy in her eyes.  "Okay,
there's two zoom lens with the camera.  The one that's on it now is good for
distance.  It's a 70 - 210mm with a macro on it as well.  The other is a
28 - 85mm which is good for indoors and close ups, and it also has a macro
on it."

     "What's a macro?"

     "It's like a close up setting.  Like if you wanted to take a picture of
a penny, and you didn't want a lot of background, just the penny.  You
switch to macro and lets you do super close ups.  It's a bit tricky, but
you'll get used to it."

     Ami was peering through the viewfinder.  It seemed like she was born
with a camera in her hand as her right hand cradled the body with her finger
over the shutter release and her left hand was twisting the lens to focus
and zoom at the same time.

     "Wow!  This is so cool," she said.  "There's a squirrel on that branch
over there and he's all I see through the lens.  Is that what would come out
in the print?"

     Todd smiled.  "Yep, what you see is exactly what you'll get.  Notice
the little bracket in the middle on the right?  It has a little bar above or
below it.  You need to get that bar inside the bracket all the time if you
want the correct exposure.  Otherwise your pictures will either be too dark
or too light."

     "I see it," said Ami.  "It's just below the bottom of the bracket now.
How do I adjust that?"

     She was looking intently at Todd, eager to devour the knowledge.

     Todd showed her how to adjust the aperture, explaining that the smaller
the opening the better the depth of focus would be.  He showed her how to
focus lining up the split circle she saw through the lens and even a bit
about how sometimes you didn't want everything in focus because it might
take away from the subject.  He showed her how to set the film speed and how
to change the shutter speed, how to cock the camera in one smooth stroke and
how to open the back and how to rewind film.

     The entire time he was talking and showing her, Ami had blocked out the
rest of the world.  She absorbed all he was saying like a sponge.  Todd
looked up, saw her rapt attention and said, "You'll probably forget 90
percent of what I've said before you go to bed."  But he was smiling as he
said it.  "There's more to this than I can explain in even a day, but I
sometimes teach basic photography at UNC, and a couple of years ago I even
wrote a small book on the basics of a manual camera for my students to use.
I'm sure that Kelly has one around here and if you read it, and practice,
I'm sure that you'll get the hang of it in no time."

     Ami was speechless.

     Todd pulled out a flash from the bag and showed her how to mount it on
the hot shoe.  He helped her put the batteries into the flash and walked her
through the most basic settings for flash photography.  Then he talked her
through loading her first roll of film.

     "Well Kiddo, you're now a lethal weapon.  You're loaded for bear!" Todd
said handing her the bag.  "Read and study, but more importantly shoot.
That's how you learn.  There's ten rolls of film here to get you started,
and you'll develop your own film in my darkroom."

     Ami hugged the camera close to her body slipping the neck-strap over
her head.  She had no intention of taking it off!

     Todd sat back and finished his beer as he watched Ami go from one point
to another, quickly adjusting the F-stop before focusing in on her target.
This went on right up to the point where Laura called them in for supper.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Kelly saw Ami waltz in with the camera around her neck and with mock
dismay said, "Oh no, even in my own house there will be no escaping the
dreaded lens!"

     Ami quickly raised the camera, focused and fired, capturing Kelly in a
burst of white light, spatula in hand lifting an egg onto a plate of
steaming spiced Nasi.

     "I think you created a monster, Sweetheart," Laura said to Todd.

     As they sat down to eat, Kelly asked Ami if she was going to take the
camera off.

     "Oh," said Ami.  "I've turned it off and put the lens cap back on.  I
just want to get familiar with it around my neck."

     Todd tried hard not to smile as he broke the yolk on his egg and mixed
it in with the rice.  After the fifth mouthful he looked at Kelly and
smiled, expressing his appreciation for his favorite meal.

     Cara panted.  "Whew... that's spicy!" and picked up her bottle of beer
and took a long drink from it.

     FLASH!

     "Gotcha!" said Ami with a self-satisfied smirk.

     "I don't think it's going to be safe around here for a while," said
Laura.

     "Okay, okay.  See?  I'm putting the cap on and turning the flash off,"
said Ami with a pout as phony as a three dollar bill.

     As she put the camera down in her lap, Todd could hear the flash
charging again.  The little nymph had already figured out where the controls
were without looking, and he would bet the cap was off again as well.

     During a delightful dinner, interrupted only three more times by
unexpected flashes, Todd told Kelly and Laura about the phone call from
Chuck.

     "That's nice of him," said Kelly.  "I like him, and he seemed really
taken with you Todd.  It's a pity about his daughter, but who knows?  Maybe
he's already started to look for her."

     "I hope so," said Todd, "for both his and Anna's sake."

     "Do you think they'll be at the opening of Mueller's Wheel?" Kelly
asked.

     "Damn, I had forgotten about that with all the rush stuff.  Guess we
better do some real office work tomorrow Kell.  Get us rooms and all that
stuff and we still have to do a quote for Al for his new brochure."

     "Okay," said Kelly, "then why don't you make the print for him tomorrow
and we can give it to him on the weekend."

     "Smart thinking Batman," said Todd.  "Cara and Ami can check the
equipment out proper tomorrow, and I can discuss some ideas with them for
the poses.  What about you Laura?"

     "I'll be around if you need something, otherwise I'll just be doing my
course online."

     "Okay then," said Todd.  "A leisurely evening, a day of work and then
off to see the 'James Gang' on the weekend."

     "What are we going to do on the weekend if you guys are gone?" Cara
asked.

     Kelly laughed, "You're coming with us of course.  I'm sure that Erin
will be there as well."

     "Road Trip!" yelled Ami and Cara.

     Todd rolled his eyes.  "Where do these kids get their energy from?"

     "Suppressed sexuality," said Ami with a straight face.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Cara and Ami had volunteered to clean up, so Kelly, Todd and Laura
found themselves in the back yard again clutching ice-cold bottles of Evian.

     "Do you know what Ami told me this morning?" Todd said.  "We were in
the darkroom and she wanted to make sure that I knew she was gay.  Said that
she didn't want me to entertain any thoughts of adding her to my bed."

     Kelly laughed softly.  "She's a sweet kid Todd.  I like her straight
forward approach to life."

     "Can you imagine how little social life these girls have had?" asked
Laura.  "To hear them talk about training and practice... it must have taken
up most of their lives."

     "I've seen it before Laura," said Todd.  "It's a lot like what models
go through except gymnasts start earlier in life.  In every city, thousands
try, maybe a hundred will last through the first year.  From those, who give
it their all, and stick to it, they might find a dozen good enough to
compete and then they have to compete hard against gymnasts from other
cities and other states, and in the end, every four years, we might get to
send eight to the Olympics.  It's a real bitch if you have a bad day at a
regional competition and you get disqualified or cut from the team.  Or
you're born just one year too late and by the time the next Olympics rolls
around, you've gone through what Cara did.  A growth spurt and all of a
sudden, nothing works the same anymore.  And injuries... athletes are more
prone to injuries that can destroy years of practice and dedication in one
misstep.  At least these two can say they made it to the Nationals, and have
some medals to show for it.  Now they've got to learn to adjust in the
'normal' world.  In a way I think it's unfair to do that to kids."

     "Don't they want to do it?" Laura asked.

     Todd laughed.  "Hell, by the time they're old enough to realize what
kind of life they're into, they believe it's what they want.  Look at Tiger.
His dad started him off with a putter before he was three.  You think he
became the most famous golfer of our time because one day he woke up in his
crib and decided that golf was going to be his life?"

     "Wow.  I never realized.  But what about models Kelly?  You started
when you were 12.  I know you were forced into it, but couldn't you have
gotten out of it all together Kell, at the time you gained your freedom?"

     "I suppose I could have," said Kelly lighting a cigarette, "but by the
time I really knew that I had a choice, I had been doing it for two years
and had no real money to show for it, and I couldn't go back home, so, since
the work was there, I decided I would make as much as I could.  I had well
over a million in the bank before I was 17, and no living expenses since I
was always on some location.  I had no idea what an average annual income
was.  Then when I got it all figured out, I just kept on getting more for my
time and I hoarded it.  Made some smart investments with the help of friends
and pulled it all out again when I decided to take Todd's advice.  Since
then, I've never looked back."

     "You guys must really find me na�ve," said Laura.  "I mean... I'm so
dull.  The most exciting times in my life have been with you."

     "No Honey," said Kelly.  "You're not dull.  You're exciting.  With your
looks and your brains, you would have ended up doing something special with
your life.  But you know... I'm glad that we found you first.  You're our
rock!"

     "My thoughts exactly," said Todd.

     Laura blushed.  "If I'm anything it's because of the two of you.  I
love you both so much."

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Ami was devouring the book Kelly had found for her.  "Todd Ayres:
Introduction to Photography."

     She was hunched over the book with the camera in one hand and the other
hand flipping pages.  Cara sat across from her, content to read the latest
John Sandford novel, and every few minutes looking at her friend.

     That's how Kelly and Laura found them.  Todd had mentioned bringing
over the goodie bag courtesy of Delton, but Kelly had suggested that with
Ami's new found passion for taking candid shots, it might be better if they
saved it for the bedroom.

     "Are you girls ready for a mud bath?" Kelly asked.

     "A mud bath?" Ami had asked.  "I thought we were only getting facials."

     "You are dear, but you'll probably want a bath afterwards and we have a
nice big Jacuzzi if you haven't noticed."

     The girls were led to Kelly's bedroom where not so long ago, Laura had
applied the same treatment on Kelly.

     Ami insisted Cara go first, and Kelly and Laura applied a thick coat of
"Dead Sea Mud" to her face.  On Laura's advice they had changed into
t-shirts since they would be easier to wash afterwards.

     They had just finished putting the mud on Cara when Kelly noticed Ami
had left the room.  She realized what was coming next and motioned for Laura
to step back.

     FLASH!

     "What was that?" Cara asked, her eyes closed due to the mud.

     "What was what?" Kelly asked suppressing the urge to laugh.

     "I thought I heard a snap.  That better not be Ami with that damn
camera again!"

     "I didn't hear anything," Laura said, "and Ami's sitting right here
while getting her own mask put on.  Now try not to talk because the mud has
to set.  You'll be a half hour with a face that will feel tighter by the
minute."

     "Okay," grumbled Cara.

     Then Kelly and Laura seriously put a layer on Ami.

     When both girls were covered, Kelly said she was stepping out for a
smoke and by the time she came back they would start to melt off the dried
mud.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     "How's it going?" Todd asked.

     "They're both covered in it now," said Kelly as she lit up.  "They look
kind of cute with their hair pulled back and sitting there with green faces
and their tiny white T's."

     "By now, they shouldn't even be able to talk," said Laura.  "But Ami
managed to get a shot of Cara looking like the creature from the black
lagoon."

     "Maybe you should turn some music on," said Todd with a mischievous
grin.

     "To hide the sound of you snapping some pictures of your own?" Kelly
asked.

     "You bet!"

     Kelly turned on the stereo and Todd entered the bedroom after
retrieving the Pentax.  The bedroom was well lit, so they wouldn't notice
the flash, and if he cocked the camera away from the girls, he could easily
sneak in a few photos.

     Three shots later, he put the camera back where he had found it.  "Turn
about is fair play," he said as he came back outside.

     At 9:15, Kelly and Laura came back in with a basin of warm water and
two face cloths.  Gently they wet down the dried mud and as it dissolved,
two red faces appeared from beneath the green coating.

     As careful as Kelly and Laura were, there had still been some dripping
and both girls were sitting in rather wet T's, their nipples clearly visible
through the now transparent material.

     "I would suggest you head right into the tub now," said Kelly.  "I'll
show you how to adjust the water and the jets.  You might as well take a
nice leisurely soak while you're at it."

     Laura headed out to join Todd while Kelly helped the girls pick up
fresh clothes and then showed them how to operate the Jacuzzi.  Both girls
peeled off their wet T's and panties while Kelly was in the bathroom with
them.  Kelly took a minute to inspect the areas where they had been waxed.
"It looks like you're still a little red," said Kelly.  "I'll add some good
moisturizing bath salts to the water and aside from the bubbles and the
delicious smell, it will help with the slight swelling."

     Neither Cara nor Ami were the least bit embarrassed by Kelly's almost
clinical inspection and prognosis.

     Making sure that the girls were comfortable, Kelly returned a minute
later with two fresh bottles of ice cold Evian for them and told them to
enjoy themselves.

     Outside again with Todd, she said, "If you're still in the mood to
light up, Cara and Ami will be pretty occupied for at least an hour."

     Todd smiled and produced a fat spliff he had rolled earlier.  "Just
one," he said as he lit it, "to help us relax."

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Cara and Ami sat in the tub facing each other.  Their breasts bobbing
in and out of the bubbles as the jets churned the water.

     "Ami," Cara ventured.  "If I said the sight of you like this turned me
on, would you be upset if I masturbated in front of you?"

     Ami nearly choked on her Evian.  "You want to masturbate?  In the tub?
With me watching you?"

     "Yeah," said Cara.  "I didn't think of that part, but yeah, I guess if
you wanted to, you could watch.  It's just that seeing you naked, and
feeling your legs brushing up against mine... Hell Ami, you know you turn me
on, but I don't want to push you into anything."

     "Yeah, sure... why not.  If it makes you feel better, but I don't think
I'll watch."

     Cara slid a hand down her legs, spreading them even wider.  Her middle
finger found her aroused clit instantly and she started to flick it as her
other hand grasped her own breast.  Her eyes were locked on Ami who was very
carefully reading the label on the bottled water, trying very hard not to
sneak glances at Cara.

     Cara could see Ami watching, and smiled.  She was so close now.  She
slipped her middle finger into her slippery vagina, and then added her index
finger thrusting them in and out as her thumb strummed a beat against her
rock hard clit.  Her breath was becoming ragged and her body started to
lurch.  A last look at Ami before her eyes closed in bliss showed that Ami's
nipples had puckered and that Ami now had a hand in the water as well.

     Cara cried out in joy as her climax rode over her.  She had always been
silent when approaching orgasm, but knowing that the object of her desire
was watching her, she just let loose with a groan and then a scream.  As she
crested a second time, her legs clamped shut and she squirmed and slid in
the bath, her head going under the water from the bath oil Kelly had added.

     As she came up for air sputtering she was surprised to see Ami's head
back as her elbow showed clearly what her hand was doing under the bubbles.

     Ami had only been able to take it for so long, watching Cara masturbate
and knowing she was the reason for her friend's horniness.  Her own cunt
cried out for attention and she had slowly drifted her hand down to her own
pleasure patch.  She had toyed for a bit, just feeling her clit and sliding
a finger over her labia lips feeling the lubricant she was secreting.  She
wasn't even aware that her fingers had started to work their magic in
earnest, and no longer cared if Cara could see her watching or not.  Hearing
Cara's breath come in shorter and shorter gasps and seeing her friend's face
color with the onset of her climax nearly drove Ami over the edge herself
when she felt Cara's legs clamp shut on her own, driving her finger inside!
Even as Cara went under water, Ami beat a steady rhythm on her clit and
seconds later was rewarded with the rush that overtook her.

     When Ami came down from her self-induced high, she looked at Cara only
to see her friend smiling back at her.

     "Was it good?" Cara asked.

     Ami blushed.  "I got so hot looking at you that I got carried away."

     Cara took a long gulp from the bottle before replying.  "Ami, I know
that you don't want to get hurt, and I sure as hell don't want to be the one
to hurt you.  I don't know where I'm going in life.  I'm too young to make
life long commitments, but I do love you and that I want to make love to
you.  I won't rush you or push you into anything you're not ready for, but
you do turn me on so much..."

     Ami slid forward in the tub, silencing any more from Cara with her
finger on her lips.  With one hand she cupped Cara's breast as the other
pulled Cara in close for a kiss.

     It was a tender kiss.  Long and lingering.  Both girls had their mouths
slightly parted and Ami ran her tongue over Cara's teeth and the inside of
her lips.  Cara for her part allowed Ami to take the lead, but as the kiss
became more urgent, she reached out and drew Ami closer to her, cupping
Ami's butt cheeks and easily lifting her on to her lap.  The kissing
intensified and four hands explored two bodies.

     "God Cara.  I love how you kiss," said Ami as they broke for air.  Cara
nibbled softly at the nape of Ami's neck.

     "Maybe it's the way Kelly and Laura share so much love with Todd that I
don't feel so 'absolute' in monogamy any more."

     "Well," said Cara, "look at Erin's brother.  He can't satisfy all those
girls every night and they came right out and said they share love with each
other.  I think we've been duped by the movies and books into thinking
everyone has just one perfect partner."

     "Maybe it's a society thing to prevent people from expressing love with
those they really care about," said Ami.  "I just know that this feels good,
it feels right, and right now, I'm not concerned about who you might be with
next week or next month or next year.  As long as you really love me when
you make love with me."

     Cara softly kissed Ami's eyelids and her cheeks and ears before moving
back to her lips.  Between kisses she softly whispered, "When I say I love
you Ami, I really mean it.  When I make love to you, you will know that I am
loving you with every fiber of my being."

     Ami's eyes welled up with tears that Cara tried to kiss away.  "Then
love me Cara, love me now, love me tonight."

     The rest of the bath was finished quickly and they rinsed in the shower
washing their fresh cut tresses.  Drying off turned out to be a combat sport
as each girl groped for the other with either a hand or a mouth until they
finally just ran for the bedroom holding their towels in front of them.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Kelly, Todd and Laura heard some of the screams of pleasure coming from
the guest room.

     "Sounds like the girls are having a good time," said Laura.

     Todd was feeling very mellow from the joint the three of them had
shared.  "It does sound that way doesn't it?  You think we're a bad
influence on them?"

     "No," said Kelly shaking her head.  "They've been in love for a long
time.  Now they're just acting on it."

     "Cool," said Todd.

     "It's getting me hot just hearing them," said Laura.

     "Then what are you waiting for?" asked Kelly.  "Let's get our man hard
and ready."

     "But Kelly, I'm still on my period," said Laura.

     "So what," said Todd.  "It's dark out here and we'll need to take a
shower before we go to bed anyway."

     "Out here?" Laura asked.

     "Why not?" said Kelly moving closer to Todd.  "I don't think either
Cara or Ami will be finished for quite some time."

     Todd allowed Kelly to slide his pants off exposing a rapidly inflating
cock.  Sitting on the end of the lounger Kelly bent forward to suck it into
her mouth bringing it up to full attention.

     "I'm not sure," said Laura.  "What about the neighbors?"

     "They can't see over the shrubbery," said Kelly as she pulled off her
t-shirt and shorts and panties.  "Besides, I'll only share Todd with you.
They'll have to find their own stud!"

     Laura finally shrugged and peeled off her own clothes.  She stepped
into the house for a minute to grab a box of tissues and removed her tampon
before stepping outside again.

     Todd had pulled the cushion out of the lounger and had laid it on the
grass.  Kelly was kneeling over his head as his tongue worked wonders on her
clit.  "Come on Sweetheart," Kelly said to Laura.  "You've gone too long
without that hard cock inside you.  Climb on and ride this cowboy."

     Laura slowly sank to the grass and straddled Todd, easing his stiffness
into her.  "Oh god that feels good," she managed to say before Kelly's mouth
was on hers.

     Laura rode Todd hard and her climax came quickly, but Todd remained
hard.  Using her cunt muscles she slowed her pace grasping his cock with her
vagina.  Todd's head was still buried between Kelly's legs and she peaked
twice as Laura helped things along by teasing and lightly pulling on Kelly's
sensitive nipples.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Cara raised her head up from between Ami's legs.  Between them, the
girls had tried every position they could think of so far and accumulated
nearly a dozen climaxes.  Cara was just proving her love for Ami again, with
every fiber of her being.  When they had hit the bedroom on the run, they
had fallen into bed kissing and hugging and stroking each other, but their
lust soon turned into humping against each other bringing them both off.
After that, they had switched to a sixty-nine position allowing them to lick
each other for the first time at the same time while still allowing there
hands to stroke and caress the other's body.  This finally proved to both
girls how satisfying physical love could be when both partners were doing
out of love.

     After the first few climaxes, Ami had flipped Cara onto her back and
with her hands on Cara's stomach finally had a close look at her friend as
she licked and sucked her to two more orgasms.  Her face wet with Cara's
juices, she had crawled up beside her friend and the two had rested in each
other's arms, hugging, kissing and caressing each other.

     Cara had just finished returning the same kind of love and had used her
fingers inside Ami's hot box searching for and finding her "G" spot bringing
forth a copious amount of love juice and leaving Ami squirming on the bed.
It was as Ami was coming down from her latest orgasm that she had first
heard the sound.  She had gently patted Cara on the top of her head just as
Cara was about to try to bring Ami off again.

     "Listen," said Ami softly.

     Cara listened with Ami and they could hear someone groaning outside.

     Carefully and quietly they had slipped off the bed and turning off the
one light they had left on for their lovemaking, they carefully and slowly
opened the curtains.  Right there not ten feet away was a naked Kelly riding
Todd's face while an equally naked Laura was humping up and down on his
cock, and the two girls were kissing each other as well as groping each
other.

     "Wow!" said Ami softly.

     "Double that!" said Cara.

     They watched for nearly ten minutes hugging each other and softly
stroking each other as they watched until Kelly finally collapse and roll
off on to the grass, arms and legs splayed.

     Laura continued to ride Todd until they saw him start to buck back in
earnest and the look on his face was clearly one of pleasure.  They could
hear him mumble something and then Laura fell forward kissing the lips that
had so recently been latched onto Kelly's cunt.  Then Laura finally rolled
off as well, giving Cara and Ami a clear view of Todd's cock.

     "I wonder why they did it outside?" Cara asked.

     "Hmm... You know, if we could hear them, maybe they heard us, and
didn't want to interrupt us," said Ami.

     "Maybe the sound of us having so much fun turned them on," said Cara.

     "We can always go out and ask them," snickered Ami.

     Cara giggled with her, then said:  "Look... Laura is wiping Todd's
prick with tissues.  I wonder why she's doing that?"

     "Maybe she's on her period," ventured Ami.  "See, she's wiping herself
as well."

     The girls continued to watch as Todd finally pulled his pants back on.
Then Laura put her panties on leaving only Kelly in the buff.  As the
threesome outside put the cushion back in the chair and they were all seated
again, it was Ami who suggested that they put their panties on and join them
outside.

     "Are you serious?" Cara asked.

     "Why not?  Kelly said that most of the time her and Laura are nude
around the house anyway.  And you my dear have nothing to be ashamed of!"

     Cara blushed.  "Neither do you Ami."

     "Okay," Ami said.  "We'll just visit for a short time and then come
back and maybe we can pick up where we left off."

     "I'd like that," said Cara.

     "Besides," said Ami, "I want to get a picture of you just the way you
are."

     "As long as you don't show it to anybody," said Cara.

     "Well, Todd will probably see it, but if you're willing to go out in
just panties, it won't shock him, besides, you've got to see the pictures of
Kelly and Laura he has in the darkroom!"

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     "Everybody decent?" came Ami's voice from the kitchen.

     "We're always decent," said Kelly, "though not always dressed.  Come
out at your own risk," she added with a laugh.

     The laugh however caught in her throat as Cara and Ami came out into
the yard wearing only the thong underwear Kelly had bought for them earlier
in the day.

     "And here I was worried about myself," said Laura looking at the girls
with an admiring glance.

     "Yeah, well, after last night and what Kelly said about the casual
attire around here, we thought we would just join you for a bit before we
hit the hay."

     Todd, still riding the high from Delton's good weed, and the great sex,
had his back to the girls but upon hearing the direction of the conversation
turned in his chair and looked at the two half naked girls.  "Hi," he said
as he turned back around."

     "Hi yourself," said Ami, blushing slightly.

     Todd turned around once more.  Looked up and down at Ami and said,
"Yeah, I guess I am."

     Kelly giggled, Laura said, "Dean Friedman, circa 1976."

     "Huh?" said Cara.

     "Never mind Laura," said Kelly, "she's a music trivia buff.  I'm
guessing Todd said something from a song she knows."

     "Right you are Sweetheart," said Laura giving her a kiss.  "And the
song was 'Ariel,' quite a strong techno and synthesized song for its time.
Now, who wants fresh water?"

     Todd raised his hand.  Kelly nodded and Cara and Ami walked into the
house to give Laura a hand carrying them out.

     "Thanks girls, they can be quite hard on the boobies if I carry more
than three at a time!"

     Ami laughed.  "Bet that puckers the old nipples quick!"

     "Is Todd like really stoned?" asked Cara.

     "Not really," said Laura.  "He's just really mellow now."

     Laura stopped and turned on the stereo, setting the speakers to low,
and from her previous inspection found and retrieved a golden compilation of
hits of the 70's.

     As the three headed back to the yard, Ami said, "I thought he might
just be sexed out."

     Laura blushed.  "Did you...?"

     "Yep," said Cara proudly.  "But we missed the beginning of the show."

     "Oh my god!" said Laura blushing.

     "Don't worry Laura, we won't tell Todd we saw you riding him," giggled
Ami.

     "Or Kelly filling his face!" added Cara.

     Laura narrowed her eyes in mock sternness.  "Who would have thought we
had a couple of peeping toms in the house!"

     "It wasn't our fault that you guys were making such weird noises
outside of our bedroom window," said Ami.

     "Well, maybe if you had heard what we heard coming from your bedroom,
you would understand why we got ourselves worked up," said Laura with a
smirk.

     "The time was right," said Ami.

     "And it was perfect," said Cara.

     "Then I'm happy for both of you," said Laura.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     The five of them sat outside watching the stars come out until the
heavens were filled with pinpricks of light.

     Finishing off the icy water, Cara and Ami announced they were going in
for the night, thanking Kelly and Laura for a great day, and Ami went so far
as to give Todd a special hug thanking him again for the use of his camera.

     Back in their bedroom, true to her word, Ami had Cara posed on the bed,
her pert breasts showing nicely, nipples nicely extended thanks to Ami's
willing mouth, and she shot off one frame after another doing both close ups
an and long body shots.  For the sake of modesty, Cara kept her legs crossed
gently allowing just a slight sight of pubic hair in the pictures.  Finally,
the erotic nature of what they were doing got the best of them and after
putting the camera away and turning off the lights, the two girls dove into
bed to continue what they had been doing earlier.

     During a break in their lovemaking, Cara asked Ami how she had felt
sitting outside with Kelly, Todd and Laura nearly in the nude.

     "Actually, Kelly was completely nude," reminded Ami, "and Todd was
wearing pants, so he had everything important hidden.  But other than that,
I felt quite comfortable.  Natural if you know what I mean."

     "Yeah, I do know," said Cara.  "That's why I asked you.  I noticed the
conversation was a lot more insightful and honest.  Maybe without clothes to
hide behind you can open up more."

     "Well dear, you can certainly help me out right now by opening up
more," said Ami.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Nobody had bothered setting an alarm the night before, and Kelly was
the first to wake up to the smell of Blue Mountain coffee.  That meant only
one thing.  Gloria was here.

     Looking at the clock Kelly was shocked to see it was past 10.  Gently
shaking Laura, Kelly explained the situation and slipped a t-shirt on before
slipping out of the bedroom.  Knocking softly on the door of the guest room
got no response so Kelly quietly opened the door to find Cara and Ami, nude,
asleep in a lover's embrace.  She smiled gently and then tapped the girls on
the most convenient spots available.  Both girls slowly came awake and with
shy smiles pulled the covers up.

     "I just wanted to let you know that Vanetta's mother is here.  She
watches my house for me when I'm out of town and helps me to keep it
orderly.  I just thought you might want to slip on a T before coming out
this morning.  I wasn't expecting her, so she's probably got something on
her mind that she feels I should know about."

     "Okay Kelly," mumbled the girls.

     Kelly's next stop was the bathroom where she emptied her very full
bladder.

     "Good morning G" said Kelly as she entered the kitchen.

     "Mornin' chil" said Gloria.  "Me must talk to you."

     "I was wondering what brought you over this morning," said Kelly as she
sat down.

     "Good morning Gloria," said Laura as she entered the kitchen.

     "Mornin' Laura," said G looking at the two happy faces in front of her.

     "Hiya Gloria," said Todd stepping into the kitchen.  "Is this girl talk
or can I get a drink of something."

     Gloria smiled a big smile.  "Good mornin' mister Todd.  You wan fer me
to make you a cup of the good coffee?"

     "No thanks Gloria," Todd said.  "I'll put on a pot of tea.  If I'm in
the way just let me know."

     "Is just as well all tree of you is here.  Miss Kelly needs to go see
the doctor.  The sooner the better."

     Kelly's head snapped up with a start.  "See a doctor?  I was just in
for a physical four months ago G.  I'm in perfect health."

     "You jus listen to old Gloria.  You make appointment today to see the
doctor."

     The look on Gloria's face was determined and Kelly knew better than to
argue with her when she had her mind made up.

     Sighing, she reached for the cordless phone and dialed her personal
physician, Dr. MaryAnn Myers.

     The phone at the doctor's office rang only three times before the
receptionist picked it up.  Kelly said who was calling and asked to be
patched through to the doctor.

     She was on hold for five minutes before Dr. Myers picked up the phone.
"Hi Kelly.  Jen said it sounded important.  What can I do for you?"

     "Hi MaryAnn.  I know this is silly, but somebody is insisting that I
need to be seen by you as soon as possible."

     MaryAnn Myers had been Kelly's personal GP since she had moved to
Charlotte.  A pleasant woman in her early forties, she was friendly but
practical.

     "Well," said MaryAnn, "often other people see things in you that you
can't see yourself.  I take it this advice came from somebody whose opinion
you trust?"

     "Yes, very much so," said Kelly.

     "Well then it sounds like an emergency to me.  I was looking for an
excuse to get out of an insurance seminar this afternoon anyway, so I'm free
starting at two if you can make it in by then."

     "Great.  Thanks MaryAnn, I'll see you at two then."

     After she got off the phone, she turned upturned eyebrows at Gloria.
"Satisfied now mother?"

     Gloria just turned her head and ignored the remark sipping on her
coffee.

     Cara and Ami came into the kitchen about that time, still stretching
and yawning.  It was Laura who made the introductions, and Gloria treated
them both to a big smile

     "It's nice to see so many happy faces in this house," Gloria said.
"It's been lonely here for too long."

     Finishing her coffee, G announced that she would talk to Kelly later,
said goodbye to everyone and was on her way.

     Kelly was so stunned she forgot to go outside to have her cigarette and
lit one up out of habit.  "Now I wonder what the hell that was all about?"
she said to no one in particular.

     Laura shrugged and proceeded to put breakfast out along with the
requisite vitamins.

     Todd poured Kelly, Laura and himself a cup of tea.  Cara and Ami
declined his offer sticking instead to orange juice.

     After breakfast, the group got dressed and headed to the studio.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     An hour after they arrived, and having gone through the exercise
routine again, and a fresh shower, they were gathered around the studio
kitchen drinking fresh juice.

     Kelly explained to Vanetta her mother's unusual visit of the morning.

     "Well, you know Mom," said Vanetta.  "She tells it like it is."

     "Yes," sighed Kelly reluctantly, "and her intuition hasn't been wrong
yet."  But deep down inside, Kelly couldn't help but feel a certain anxiety.
Life was going so well now for her.  She had never been so happy, and a
feeling of dread overcame her.  What if something was seriously wrong?  She
blinked back the tears that were forming and pushing herself away from the
table said she had to check on the New York office and do the quote for Al.

     Laura could sense the pain Kelly was feeling, and while Todd and the
gymnasts tried some of the equipment out, she went and put a comforting arm
around Kelly.

     "I'm sure it's nothing serious," said Laura.  "I would have felt that
from Gloria.  It's probably just a little thing.  Don't worry, just see the
doctor."

     Kelly held Laura in her arms and sobbed.  "Not now Laura.  I love you
and Todd so much, I can't bear the thought of being sick."

     Laura stroked her head for a long time trying to comfort her.

     Finally Kelly shook her head.  "You're right Laura, there's no use in
worrying until I hear what Dr. Myers has to say.  But will you go with me
Honey?  I might need you afterwards."

     "Sure I will Sweetheart.  Now why don't you do the things you do best
to keep your mind off of it until this afternoon when you and I will go to
your appointment."

     Kelly wiped her eyes and gave Laura a gentle kiss.  "Thanks Laura for
being so strong for me."

     "I'll always be here for you Kell, you know that!"

     Kelly turned to her monitor just as the truck from the sporting goods
store pulled up.  She let Todd take care of the delivery and monitor the
custom fitting of the expensive bikes.  After the bikes were assembled,
Laura and Cara decided to go for a test ride while Ami and Todd went into
the darkroom to develop Ami's first roll of film.

     Kelly immersed herself in the quote for the Brookhaven project and
willed her mind to focus strictly on that.  Time would tell what had caused
Gloria to become so concerned about her health.

     She had just finished off the quote for Brookhaven and had it printed
and ready for mailing when the FedEx truck arrived with a box of chalk and a
parcel for TKO from Ray, the T-shirt and souvenir shop owner from
Brookhaven.  Vanetta accepted and signed for both parcels as Kelly sat back
with another cigarette.  It was nearing the one o'clock mark.

     Todd and Ami had come out of the darkroom, both of them laughing and
poring over the prints Ami had made.  Ami was a bit upset that Todd had
caught her unawares under the mud pack but as Todd explained it, it would
give her a better understanding of how people felt being caught off guard
and not at their personal best.

     Ami had gotten a great candid shot of Kelly with the spatula and he was
also quite impressed with the nudes she had taken of Cara.  They were well
composed and she had obviously read his book cover to cover as she had set
the depth of field to a mere two feet basically blurring the entire
foreground and the background.

     Kelly could hear him saying she was a natural with a camera and
encouraged her to take many more pictures practicing her technique.  Ami
promised that the next time she developed her own film there would be at
least five rolls to do.

     Kelly had managed to say all the right things, but both Todd and Ami
could see that her mind was elsewhere.  They returned to the darkroom so
Todd could do the large print of Anna that Chuck had requested.

     "I feel bad letting her just sit like that," Ami said to Todd.

     "I know Ami, but it's heavy on her mind and to talk about it will only
increase her fear.  We have to act like nothing's wrong or she'll really
work herself into a wreck."

     Laura and Cara returned after a leisurely cruise around the industrial
complex, locked up their bikes and Laura went to freshen up so she would be
ready to support Kelly.

     At two o'clock Kelly entered the medical center mentally prepared to
hear the worst news of her life.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Kelly and Laura had been gone for about an hour when the phone call
came in.  Vanetta answered and called Todd out of the darkroom.

     Todd had been working on the large print of Anna and having the large
trays out had decided to do some enlargements of the best shot of the Cuddy,
the one where Sara had taken the boat into a sideways skid.

     He had shown Ami how to work the chemicals over paper to ensure even
coverage and saturation, and the two of them had gone on to make a few
larger prints of the ones of Kelly and Laura in the bathtub in Brookhaven.
They were on the raunchiest of the prints when Vanetta had let him know
there was an important call.  Todd saw he could leave Ami to finish off the
print they were working on and stepped out to take the call.

     "Hello?"

     "Todd, it's Johan.  It took me a bit longer than I expected, but I have
the design.  I drew this one up myself."

     "That's great Johan, can you send it to me?  I'm dying to see it."

     "Sure.  How I about I send it email?"

     "That would be great.  You've got the office address right?"

     "Yes, I didn't want to send it in case you weren't alone.  Is it okay
to send now?"

     "Send it Johan, Kelly and Laura are both out of the office right now."

     "It's sent.  Want me to hold on while you take a look?"

     "Yeah, that way I can tell you right now," said Todd.

     Vanetta, sitting across from Todd switched the screen to Outlook
Express and clicked 'send and receive.'  She told Todd a big file was coming
in.

     "So Johan, it won't look too gaudy on their fingers will it?" asked
Todd.

     "No my friend, I think you are going to like what I came up with.  I
made a few changes before I was satisfied with the design.  I can't have
Kelly wearing something from my company that looks cheesy."

     "OH MY GOD!" said Vanetta, clasping her hand to her mouth.  She
couldn't say anything else, but swiveled the screen so Todd could take a
look at the picture on it.

     "Yes!" said Todd.  "I like it very much!  It's hard to tell that's
three rings, and that heart in the middle... I guess that says I love you."

     "I'm glad you like it," said Johan.  "But I've also been thinking that
I would prefer to make them to size.  Will it be possible for you to get the
sizes for me if you still want these?"

     "I definitely want them," said Todd.  "Give me till Tuesday.  I'll have
the sizes for you by then."

     "Okay then Todd.  You want to hear the price now?" Johan laughed.

     "Not that it makes any difference to me," said Todd, "but I'll call the
bank and have them transfer the funds to you."

     "This is what I have in mind Todd," said Johan, "you came up with the
design idea.  If you let me market what I've drawn up, I'll cut the price by
30 percent."

     "Think you'll sell a lot of them?" Todd asked.

     "I doubt it, but you know people.  It's like when they want to buy a
car.  They always test drive the most expensive Cadillac in the lot before
they decide to take the less expensive family sedan."

     Todd laughed.  "Yeah, I know what you mean."

     "And," added Johan, "if you take a picture of it on Kelly's hand, you
know the way I like to display my rings..."

     "Yes, a face, a hand and the ring in full focus..." said Todd.

     "Then I will take another 20 percent off."

     "That's very generous Johan, but I won't use Kelly or Laura for that.
I can't commercialize my promise of never ending love for them."

     "I understand.  You know Todd, you are one of the last real romantics.
I'll tell you what.  I'll make up one in cubic zirconium if you take the
picture yourself on one of your specialty hand models.  One of the girls you
used in the last catalog."

     "That I can do for you Johan.  So, what's the final price?" Todd said
laughing.  "I'll bet you've got the figures right in front of you!"

     It was Johan's turn to laugh.  "Imagine two Dutchmen working out a
price.  No wonder you always get Kelly to do the figures.  That will take it
down to $48 thousand even."

     "Good deal Johan!  I'll call the bank now and get the money sent to you
and I'll have the sizes by Tuesday."

     "Good luck Todd, and let me know the wedding date."

     "I'll do that Johan.  Talk to you soon."

     Todd disconnected and was about to dial the bank when he saw the look
on Vanetta's face.  She had turned the monitor back so she could look at the
ring sets again.

     "Earth calling Vanetta."

     Vanetta was just shaking her head, her mouth still open.

     "Vanetta, dust is gathering on your tongue," said Todd.

     "Oh my..." said Vanetta.  "And you designed this?"

     Todd laughed.  "Just the rough idea.  Now I need your help to come up
with an idea on how I can get Kelly and Laura's ring sizes."

     "That's easy," said Vanetta, "take them shopping at the mall.  I'm sure
that Cara and Ami will be up for it.  Girls like to shop.  Then when you
pass a good jewelry store, tell them you want to buy them 'promise rings'
and then get them sized perfectly.  They can't do that while you wait, so
you go back by yourself and pick up the rings and you have the sizes!"

     "That's a super idea!  I'm so glad I've got you around to help me
figure these things out Vanetta.  Does Robert know how lucky he is to have a
girlfriend like you?"

     Vanetta had thought Todd might have forgotten about Laura's comment
yesterday, but she should have known better.  Todd didn't like any details
except what he could see through the lens, but that didn't mean he missed
them either.

     "I never said he was my boyfriend," said Vanetta.

     "I saw how you responded yesterday.  You don't have to say it, and
you're doing it now as well."

     "Oh, alright." She sighed.  "I hope he thinks he's lucky.  I know I
feel real lucky."

     "I'm happy for you Vanetta.  And if he doesn't know, I'll be glad to
tell him for you!"

     "Don't you dare!" she said laughing.

     "Just watch me!" he said with a mischievous wink.

     Todd called Debbie at the bank and authorized the transfer out of his
personal account and who to send it to.  Todd hated small details, which is
why he liked dealing with Debbie.  She knew Todd would provide only the bare
minimum of information, and it would be up to her to take care of the rest,
but neither Debbie nor the bank minded.  They could finance a lot of house
purchases with the money he kept in his account.

     Todd got off the desk.  "Now I better see how my little apprentice is
doing.  I'll bet she's printed off the rest of the roll while I was out here
on the phone."

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     MaryAnn Meyers unlocked the office door when she saw it was Kelly.

     "My god Kelly, you look like a wreck," said the doctor.  "Are you
feeling that bad or is this a result of your imagination running away with
you?"

     "She was looking fine this morning," said Laura, "I think she's worked
herself into this condition."

     "I'm sorry," said MaryAnn, "and you are?"

     "I'm Laura Williams," said Laura, stretching a hand out in greeting.
"I, ah, sort of live with Kelly."

     "Oh.  I see," said MaryAnn, though the expression on her face said she
really didn't.

     "She's my lover," said Kelly.

     "Oh!  I mean, now I understand.  Er, what happened to Mark?"

     "I broke it off with him nearly two months ago," said Kelly.  "I
changed, he didn't."

     "Well, yes... I see that," said MaryAnn.  "How about we go into an exam
room and I'll see if there's anything the matter with you."

     "I want Laura to come with me," said Kelly.

     "Dr. Myers probably wants to see you alone Kell," said Laura.

     "No, that's okay," said MaryAnn quickly recovering.  "If Kelly feels
more comfortable with you close by, then by all means please come in Laura."

     For the next 15 minutes, the doctor performed the first basic tests on
Kelly.  Sinuses, ears, eyes, throat and nose all proved to be clear.  Her
blood pressure was textbook perfect and a good steady heartbeat.  Kelly
peeled off her t-shirt and kept a hold of Laura's hand the entire time.
MaryAnn listened to her breathing and her lungs.

     "I see you're still smoking Kelly."

     Kelly looked up with fear.  "You can tell that from listening to my
lungs?"

     MaryAnn laughed.  "No, I could smell it in your hair when I bent over
you.  Not too strong but I've got a sensitive nose."

     Kelly breathed a sigh of relief.

     MaryAnn tested Kelly's reflexes and checked her mobility and
flexibility, finally sitting down with a perplexed look.  "Okay," she said,
"I don't see anything, not even in your fingernails that would give me cause
for concern.  How about telling me how you feel and why you think something
might be wrong?"

     Kelly sniffled, "I feel fine, but a friend of mine, she's got this
super intuition... she said I better get in to see you."

     "Well Kelly," said MaryAnn, "I'm not doubting your friend's intuition,
but I don't see a thing that would even give me cause to call for further
testing at the hospital.  Are you still taking all those vitamins?"

     Laura laughed.  "She takes them religiously, even got me started on
them.  This is the first month I've had a period without bloating!"

     MaryAnn smiled and turned to Kelly, "and how was your last period?"

     "It hasn't come yet," said Kelly.

     "That's strange," said MaryAnn.  "Aren't you still taking the pill?"

     "No," said Kelly.  "I stopped after I broke up with Mark.  Didn't see a
need for it anymore."

     "Well," said MaryAnn, "seeing how you've switched teams, I guess you
don't.  How late are  you?"

     "Oh... about five weeks," said Kelly.  "I figured it was due to the
stress of the last couple of months.  We've been really busy."

     "Maybe we should have some blood work done then," said MaryAnn, and
then she saw Laura's eyes get as big as saucers.

     "What's the matter Laura?" asked MaryAnn.

     "Ah... Kelly didn't exactly switch teams," said Laura.  "She's a switch
hitter now."

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

     Cara had been writing postcards to her friends back home when Todd and
Ami had finished up in the darkroom.  An 8 x 10 glossy of Cara in her naked
glory was being scrutinized as Vanetta poured four glasses of juice.

     "This isn't fair," said Cara.  "Who's going to take a similar picture
of Ami for me?"

     "I think I can manage that," said Todd, "as long as Ami is willing."

     "Maybe you can take one of the two of us as well," said Ami.  "Like the
ones of Kelly and Laura?"

     Todd laughed.  "Yeah, I suppose I can do that as well.  We'll do that
at Kelly's one night."  Then his voice got serious.  "I wonder how Kelly is
making out."

     "Don't worry about her Todd," said Vanetta.  "Mom would never say
anything in front of anybody if there was anything wrong.  I don't know why
mom said anything at all.  Kelly's the healthiest person I know."

     "Yeah, I thought so too, but still..." and he sighed.  He was starting
to slide.  He couldn't keep up the fa�ade much longer.  He hadn't prayed in
a long time, but was seriously asking for divine intervention on behalf of
the woman he had known and loved so long when the phone rang.

     Vanetta got up to answer it.

     "Todd..." she said, "It's Kelly."



To be continued.

          ~~~~~ // ~~~~~


Dear Reader,

Those of you who have been with the Kelly series all the way through are
probably wondering why the delay in the chapter releases.
   As you know, this was originally supposed to be a one-chapter addition to
the "James" series by Mike C.  And once again, the James Gang and TKO will
be meeting up for the Grand Opening of Mueller's wheel.  Since Mike has more
characters and scenes to write, I can't get ahead of him or take the Kelly
series out of the current time line.
   After this event however, there will be no more crossing of the paths for
our characters, or at least not in a joint story time frame.
   I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and you will see Kelly 17 after the
Grand Opening.

Peace
NH

     ~~~~~ // ~~~~~

Night Hawk
(NH@nighthawk.sytes.net)
Archived at <http://www.asstr-mirror.org/files/Authors/MikeC/James>

-- 
Pursuant to the Berne Convention, this work is copyright with all rights
reserved by its author unless explicitly indicated.
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