Foolish Games

Chapter 1 "I'd like to propose a toast,” Dante held up his frosty glass of beer. Nichelle sat at the other end of the table in the noisy restaurant, staring at her friend. Today he wore a red-and-off-white stripped short-sleeved shirt with a long-sleeved white thermal shirt underneath. He really planned out how he would do this day down to his wardrobe. Impressive. She cocked a smile as he rallied the troops. "What are we toasting to?” Zeke asked then shoved a fist full of french fries into his mouth. "Come on,” Happy began. “We could do his toast by heart now.” She huffed and pushed her small rectangular glasses up on her slender nose. "Don't take the fun out of it, Happy.” Mocking Dante, Lennon braced his elbows on the cherry wood table and set his chin on the heels of his hands like a lovesick teenager gazing at Brad Pitt. “This is the only joy I get all year.” Then he released a loud, long sigh. "Let's get this over with,” Nichelle said, lifting her glass of ginger ale. "I bet you'll be saying that a lot today,” Lennon joked and poked his bony elbow into Zeke's

2 side. The jostling motion nearly made Zeke drop his burger. "Watch it, man! You know I don't play with my food.” Zeke pushed his thick shoulder against Lennon's to get some space between them. "Dante, will you please go before these idiots break out into a fight?” Not like her arm was going to ache from holding up her glass of sallow soda but Nichelle wanted to get a move on for the day's events. "Fine.” Dante raised his glass higher. “To challenges, goals, and happy endings, may we all find a little piece of happiness at the end of the day." "I'm sure you will, D.” Zeke let go of his burger long enough to grab his glass filled with a strawberry-banana smoothie and toast Dante then turned to Nichelle. "Do none of you all find it a bit disturbing that every year we cater to the whims and whimsy of Dante and Nichelle's sex games?” Lennon asked. He grabbed the tails of his red wool scarf around his neck and smoothed it back and forth like he was shining the back of his neck. "See, it's shit like you saying ‘whims’ and ‘whimsy’ that makes me want to smack the fuck out of you.” Zeke, in his late twenties, but still eating like he held the position of linebacker on the Norfolk State University Spartan team, downed his second burger in one bite and chased it with the rest of his thick drink. Zeke reminded Nichelle so much of her brother, Nicholas. Both were great looking caramel-colored African-American men with voracious appetites. Both protected her like big brothers should. "Just because I use all the words the dictionary offers does not - I repeat - does not make me a nerd,” Lennon said. He scratched his head, rustling his dark brown hair. "No. It makes you a dork.” Zeke reared back and let loose one of his trademark full belly laughs that grabs the attention of everyone around him. The waiters stopped taking orders to look his way. "Isn't it a little early to be drinking beer?” Happy asked. She glanced at her watch a couple of times within seconds of asking the question. "I know it's noon time here but it's happy hour somewhere in the world.” Dante held up his glass then finished off his dark lager. “Besides, if Nichelle does to me this year like she did to 2

3 me last year I'm going to need the antifreeze." "Just don't drink too much.” Nichelle put her cloth napkin on the table. “There's still a parade we have to sit through." Zeke made a face. “Do we have to sit through the whole parade?” For a big as Zeke was and as menacing as he could be, sometimes he pouted like a little boy. If Nichelle hadn't been friends with him for over ten years she would have found the look odd. Since she'd known him and the rest of the group since their college years, nothing fazed her. "You know, Zeke is right,” Happy said. “We got hotel rooms that overlook the parade route. We could stay in the comfort of our rooms and still take in the parade." "What? And miss out on the sanitation guys drumming on their trashcans or the jazzersizers dancing their way down the street?” Nichelle shook her head. “This is tradition. This is how we mark the start of the spring season. We do the scavenger hunt, we watch the parade, and then we get drunk. It's been the same way for over seven years." "And again I have to ask. Does anyone else find it weird that we're catering to their sex games?” Lennon asked and pointed at Dante then Nichelle. "Jealous?” Dante lifted his eyebrows. "Something troubling you about scavenger hunt?” Nichelle reached into her purse to retrieve her list. She scanned her items, noticing right away that she had been given the odd numbers. She hoped she wouldn't be odd girl out. "I don't know.” Happy smiled with a bit of pink coloring her pale cheeks. “I think it's kind of fun." Both Lennon and Zeke stared at her with their eyes wide open and mouths gaping. Lennon could be shocked with a look. Zeke surprised Nichelle with how floored he appeared. "Happy, you're supposed to be the voice of reason here,” Lennon mused. "What? And take your job? Never.” Happy patted him on his back. Besides the fact that Happy epitomized her name, she had a way of surprising people, especially since she carried an innocent appearance. Now with her hair blond instead of chestnut brown that she had all through autumn, and her hazel eyes hidden behind her spectacles, she had a sexy yet academic appearance. 3

4 With her bubbly personality coupled with her alluring yet reserved look, she drove a lot of Nichelle's male friends wild. If only Happy knew her sexual strength. "Does everyone have their list?” Nichelle asked as she held up hers. Their waitress must have thought Nichelle was calling the woman to her table. She quickly rushed to her and freshened everyone's drinks. With topped off coffees and waters all around, Nichelle continued. "You should have all gotten an e-mail of the list,” Nichelle said again. Zeke smirked. “You know I don't check my mail often. You got to hit a brotha up on his Blackberry." "I did.” Nichelle reached into her purse again. “And since I knew you would say that, I made you a copy.” She handed the big man a piece of paper. "Any reason why there's six items on here?” Lennon's gaze never left the list. Occasionally his eyes would widen as he continued reading. "Duh!” Happy playfully slapped Lennon on his arm. “Because at seven you would get antsy." "No, I wouldn't.” Lennon crossed his arms over his chest. "Actually, it represents the number of years these two have been doing this, right?” Happy quickly followed as soon as she'd gotten under Lennon's skin. "Very good, Happy.” Dante winked at her. Dante equaled cool. Strong jaw line, dark eyebrows that matched his hair and his mesmerizing green eyes, he drew women in like bugs on a speeding car's windshield. No one could resist his force of nature. Thank God he never took himself too seriously. "You know the routine, folks.” Dante finished off his beer and suppressed a belch before moving on. “You all will be stationed, where?" "I've secured two hotel rooms at the Marriott in downtown Norfolk again.” Zeke sat back and rubbed his belly. "Same rooms as before?” Nichelle broke her gaze from her paper long enough to bring her attention to him. "Yep. Two rooms across from each other like last time so that we in the control center can keep 4

5 an eye on you guys.” Zeke pointed at Dante and Nichelle. "And you all got my list, right?” Dante's gaze coasted over the group's expressions. Zeke kept his head down. "Should have known.” Dante reached into his back pocket and handed the hulking man his list. "And, Dante, you swear you haven't seen anything on my list, right?” Nichelle asked. Dante put his hand over his heart like a charming Boy Scout. “On my word, my Nubian Goddess, I have not seen one scintillating request on your list." He didn't wink at her like he did with Happy. His megawatt smile sent a delicious shiver up Nichelle's spine. She hadn't even left the table or headed to the hotel room before the waterworks started between her legs. Lennon chuckled then gasped as he volleyed his attention from one list to the other. “This is going to be an interesting day." Normally unflappable, Dante furrowed his thick eyebrows. “What are you talking about?" Lennon held the list close to his chest. “Nothing. All I have to say is you're going to like number five." "Just five?” Dante scratched his hair, mussing it a bit. “What about three and one?" Lennon, Happy, and Zeke glanced at each other then quickly shoved their lists into their pockets. "They're interesting,” Happy said with a big grin. “Should we get the check and go?" "I got it.” Dante raised his hand to the waitress. "No, I should get it. I think it's my turn anyway this year.” Nichelle reached into her purse for her wallet. Dante's pale hand covered hers. She cast her eye up to connect with him. "Don't you worry about it,” Dante said. “Things have been going great at work. I got it." Nichelle smiled, nodded, and slid her hand from under his. Who knew that a straight-laced white guy like Dante could shake her to her core? What started off as a drunken holiday game shouldn't have gone on this long and this far. The sexy scavenger hunt took a life of its own, a 5

6 beast they couldn't stop ... even if she wanted to. "If you insist,” Nichelle said and tucked her wallet back into her purse. "So what now?” Zeke asked. "We have to go to the hotel first.” Lennon threw his scarf around his neck. "Why?” Nichelle asked as she slipped on her coat. "Your sixth task is—” Lennon paused with a mischievous smile. “-you'll have to go to the hotel to see." Nichelle released her breath and tilted her head back in exasperation. “You asshole." "Hey, you two made us three be referee and time keeper. I could have you penalized for foul language.” Lennon wagged his finger at her. Not a big guy, Lennon was solid where his character was concerned. Usually more concerned about others than himself, he was the least likely person to join their group of friends. As soon as he opened his mouth, he fit. With his dry wit matched with Dante's charm, Zeke's brawn, and Happy's disposition, he provided the needed support to keep the group of friends together. Winter welcomed Lennon like a long, lost brother. He let his normally short brown hair grow out to a long, brown shaggy ‘do that fit him. Coupled with his moustache and patch of hair below his lower lip and on his chin, and his smoky brown eyes, he became a natural heartbreaker. Nichelle couldn't wait to see how he would change his look for the upcoming spring weather. "You guys finish up your drinks,” Happy said. “Nichelle, come to the bathroom with me." "I hate to shock you, Happy, but there are bathrooms in the hotel rooms.” Zeke rolled his eyes. "Wow. Really? How amazing. Come on, Nichelle." Even Nichelle had to roll her eyes on the request. Happy had never been one of those women who had to do things in pairs like go to the bathroom or shop for clothes and shoes. Happy was an independent spirit through and through, which was why Nichelle found it odd that she wanted to do this bathroom trip together. The woman must have something important to say that she couldn't say in front of the guys. Weaving their way through the lunch crowd diners, some with large bags of goodies by their tables, Nichelle followed her petite friend into the women's bathroom. Like a covert spy, 6

7 Happy checked under the stalls for outside guests before she addressed Nichelle. "What the hell are you doing?” Happy asked. Nichelle had to blink at her candor. “What? I thought you said you were happy with the whole scavenger hunt thing." "Yeah, when it's all about sex. But what's up with numbers three and, especially, one? What are you trying to do, Nichelle?" Nichelle turned her back on her friend and faced a mirror over a row of sinks. “Nothing. Like you said, it's all just fun." Happy put her hand on Nichelle's shoulder. She could feel her friend's compassion even through her thick sweater. "Then keep it that way. I don't know what you're thinking with your last two hunt items but be warned. If pushed, this could be your last holiday fuck hunt." Hearing what she and Dante did every year for the last six years be called a ‘fuck hunt’ didn't bother Nichelle as much as knowing that Happy was right. Nichelle's requests weren't physically risky as much as mentally. She played a very dangerous game. This could all either blow up in her face or be the best thing ever. Nichelle knew one thing. She couldn't go on another six years like this. Something had to change. "And if it is the last time Dante and I do this, so what? I'm almost thirty years old. It's time I stop playing these games and get real. I want to be happy.” Nichelle applied some lip balm over her chapped full lips then made sure her straight hair, parted down the middle, looked cute under her wool cap. “Ready to go?" Happy shrugged her shoulders. “Ready if you are." Nichelle wrapped her arm around her concerned friend's shoulders and headed back out to the table. "Come on, fellas. No time like the present.” Dante stood and slipped on his jacket. “You're going down, Nic!" "Looking at the lists, I think you two will both be doing that.” Zeke chuckled as he followed the group outside. **** 7

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"Here's your card key,” Zeke said and put a card in Dante's hand then Nichelle's. “We'll be in room 799 and y'all are in 701. Be sure to wave to us once you get into your room." "I'm sure Nichelle will do that anyway on the first one,” Dante said and flashed a mischievous smile. "Okay, now I'm really curious. What's the first item on the list?” Nichelle asked. Dante chewed on the inside of his cheek waiting for one of his dear friends to break the news to Nichelle. Since Nichelle had never been known to turn down a challenge, he knew she would face this task and the others he had lined up head on. His dick started to plump up just thinking about her in each task and what she had in store for him. He didn't know about anyone else but he loved ushering in the season this way. "Nichelle,” Happy began, “Dante wants you to strip naked and stand in the hotel window for six minutes." Nichelle blinked and stared at him. Her rich, dark brown eyes sucked him in. When he snaked his tongue over his lips, Nichelle turned away. "Okay,” Nichelle said with all the confidence of a prizefighter. “Who's keeping time?" Lennon raised his hand. “I believe I've been relegated to that task for this one." "So as soon as you see me in the window, you'll start the clock." "For sure. If you cover up, back away, or stop for any reason, the clock starts over until the task is done.” Lennon slipped on his bright yellow gloves that always made the group laugh although he contended that they were the warmest pair of gloves he'd ever owned. "And if you decide that you don't want to do the task,” Dante interjected, “then you lose that task and your opponent, or me, I should say, will decide your punishment and it could be anything I want." Nichelle put her hands to her hips. “You just remember that for your tasks too, buddy." "Okay, enough trash talking.” Zeke punched the ‘up’ button for the elevator. “You two are in the other tower. Call our room or hit us up on the celly when you're ready to start this." 8

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"Are we all in the spirit now?” Dante asked as he rubbed his hands together. "I think you had too much beer.” Lennon patted Dante on his back. “We'll see you all in a bit. Nichelle?" She turned to the trio in the elevator. "You did shave, didn't you?" Before she could get Lennon back with a cool and clever comeback the doors closed. "Let's get our bags from the car and head up,” Dante said. Although they spoke on the way to the car, Dante liked the silence between conversations where he was able to notice Nichelle, watch the way she walked, and especially, look at her fine ass. He still remembered the day she walked into Professor Salver's Western Civilization class. Even then she kept her hair looking salon beautiful, her fingernails were always manicured, and he'd never seen her without some makeup on her face, either some lipstick or eyeliner or something. At his car, Dante popped open his trunk. Since he and Nichelle drove to the hotel together to save on parking space and expense, her luggage rested in his trunk next to his. He stopped her when she reached inside to get it. "I got it,” he professed as he slung carry-on bags over his shoulder and pulled out handles for both pieces of luggage with wheels. "I just love a big, strong man.” In an exaggerated fashion, Nichelle fluttered her long eyelashes. "Really? Is that all you like in a man?” he pressed. Nichelle glanced back at Dante as though daring him to continue with his line of questioning. “It's going to be a long day, Dante. You'll want to pace yourself with the sex questions. Besides you might get some of that later on." "Some of what?” The doors of the parking garage elevator opened as soon as Dante hit the ‘up’ button. “Some of this?” He smacked her on her fleshy backside. She jumped then turned around to him. “Unless it's on your list, spanking is not on my list so I 9

10 would suggest you keep your hands to yourself." Dante snapped his fingers. “Damn, I knew there was something I was missing." "You think you're cute, don't you?” she asked while trying not to smile. "I can see from your little lip curl that you think so too." She turned back around, facing her luscious backside to him. He wanted to strip her naked and take her right there in the elevator. Watching each floor button light up tortured him. He thought that the ride past the fifth floor lasted longer than it should have. He hopped from one foot to the other. Thankfully from Nichelle's stoic expression, she must not have noticed either. As soon as they reached their floor, Dante pressed his body against the door so that Nichelle could walk out. When they got to their hotel room door, he noticed Nichelle's hands trembled as she struggled to get the card key inside. The green light clicked finally. Dante's heart returned to its normal beat as soon as she opened the door. "Oh God! It's freezing in here.” Nichelle rushed to the thermostat and turned it to broil. Dante was sure of it. He dumped the bags by the open closet while she strolled over to the window with drawn curtains. Pulling them back, she let a stream of bright sunlight pour into the room bathed in yellow. From the sallow walls to the off white bedspread with yellow flowers on them, Dante felt like the serpent in the Garden of Eden. Nichelle waved her hand while at the window. Dante moved to her side. Gazing across the way he saw his three good friends staring back at him. They waved back but looked anxious. Their room must have been at a reasonable temperature. Big Zeke already had his tent of a coat off and Lennon shed his coat but, of course, left that scarf hanging around his neck. Happy, who looked so cute in her little cap, wore a turtleneck and black jeans. "Look at them,” Dante said as he gave them a cursory wave. “It's the new ‘Mod Squad'." Nichelle laughed. Every hair on Dante's body stood on end. Nichelle could sneeze and he would find something attractive about the gesture. Hell, everything about the woman got him going. She peered over her shoulder, gazing at him. Nichelle knew she turned him on. 10

11 "Guess I had better close the curtain and get this thing started. No time like the present."” Nichelle said. She brushed by Dante to get to the phone. He watched her call their friends to let them know the show would begin shortly. To keep his anxious heart and hands still, he sat in a chair by the window. The hum of the heater whirred by his ear but his concentration remained on Nichelle. Nichelle removed her boots and thick socks first. Dante let his gaze drop to her feet. Each of her toenails glittered with her bright, red polish. The longer he stared at her perfect pedicure the more his cock throbbed. "You're awful quiet over there,” she said as she removed her sweater. “Saving the jokes for later?" Dante said nothing as he stared at her breasts housed in a black lace bra. Damn, he could never get enough of staring at that, looking at her. Nichelle was a walking work of art. She was no museum piece so he definitely wanted to touch her. Her delicate fingers unsnapped the button on her jeans. With each tooth her zipper passed on its way down, his pulse raced. He grabbed the arms of the chair hoping that keeping them confined would calm him. "Where did you want to eat dinner tonight?” she asked. She twisted her hips from one side to the other as she wriggled out of her jeans. “I was thinking we stay here at Waterside and go to a restaurant in the mall. What do you think?" Now only clad in the black bra and matching lace panty Dante's mouth went dry. He planted both feet flat on the floor as he stared at her. Sweat rolled down into his eyes. Easy, man. Easy. Nichelle reached behind herself and undid her bra. Curving her shoulders in, she slipped the garment down her arms and tossed it on one of the two twin beds. Dante would have to thank Zeke for getting him and Nichelle a room with two beds. He should have known the two would have slept in the same bed together. With a quick tug, Nichelle pulled her panties down and had it join her bra on the bed. She let out a breath and twirled in front of Dante. "Happy? I can't wait until next year when you go first.” She tiptoed to the phone again. “Now to call the guys and get this thing going." 11

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She made one step toward the phone before Dante bolted from his chair. He wrapped one arm around her slender waist and the other slipped behind her head, nestled in her soft, straight hair. Savage force made him push her against a waist-high dresser. He smothered her thick lips with his in a hard, passionate kiss. Nichelle returned the forceful gesture, sliding her tongue in his mouth. She tasted sweet from the ginger ale she'd had during lunch. Cupping her ass, he raised her onto the dresser. She spread her legs to accommodate his body. Dante moved his hand up her body until it found her breast. He massaged it, letting her hardened nipple brush the palm of his hand. Nichelle broke from the kiss long enough for her hands to undo his belt and pants. His jeans dropped to the floor with a thud. She managed to get his boxers over his jutting cock and used her feet to slide it down his legs. In a commanding move, she wrapped her hand around his shaft, stroking him until he could no longer take the sweet sensation. Sensing his need, Nichelle placed him at her slick pussy opening. Dante gazed into her wild eyes for a brief moment before plunging himself inside of her. Nichelle wrapped her legs around him, keeping him close as he drove deeper and deeper inside of her, the channel of her cunt so hot and tight around him. He kissed her hungrily, nipping her bottom lip as she embedded her fingernails into his shoulders. "Dante, oh! Oh!” Nichelle arched her back and drew him in closer. He hooked her leg around his arm and pounded into her harder, faster. The dresser banged against the wall in concert with his thrusts but Dante didn't care. His body shook, tremors overtaking him. She must have sensed his need. Nichelle wrapped her arms around him, her legs locked behind his back and she rocked with him. "I'm coming! I'm, oh—” Nichelle let out a string of profanities then nibbled at his earlobe. Hearing her come and the teasing she did with her mouth, erupted Dante's orgasm. He held onto her thighs as he came deep inside of her. He slowed down to a halt. Both of them panted like fighters after eight rounds. "I wondered how long it was going to take you to come get me,” she whispered. 12

13 Dante lifted his head off of her shoulder. When his gaze connected to her eyes, he asked, “Do you think the others know?"

Chapter 2 Nichelle planted a quick kiss on Dante's lips before pushing him back and sliding off the dresser. “Do I think the gang knows we've been hitting it during the year and not just on parade day? I don't think they know.” She braced her hands against Dante's broad shoulders until her legs felt stable enough to support her body. Dante could make her weak with just a look. Fucking her made her damn near useless. As soon as she started taking off her clothes, she knew he wouldn't be able to hold out for very long. She could see his veins bulging from his neck. "Let me take a quick shower then I'll start your silly task." Dante held her hand. She brought her attention to him. "Don't take a shower. Don't wash me off yet,” he said. “No one but us will know that we fucked before. I kind of like that." Nichelle opened her mouth to object but the phone rang, halting her. Scuffling his feet to get to the phone, Dante managed to get to it on its third ring. "Yeah,” he began. He looked pointedly at Nichelle. “She's undressing right now as we speak.” Dante nodded his head toward the curtain. “She should be opening the curtain at any moment. Don't forget to mark the time, Lennon. I'll be watching out for her, too.” He paused as Nichelle crossed her arms over her chest. “Yes, she knows if she hides or closes the curtain before the six minutes are up that she has to start all over.” Dante winked at her. The wink prickled her skin. She knew she should have answered the phone before him but she assumed it was one of those annoying calls from the front desk asking if everything was okay in the room. "Prick,” she said as soon as he removed the phone from his ear. Nichelle didn't care if whoever was on the other line heard her. "Why am I the prick now?” Dante lifted his pants and followed her to the curtain. "You knew I wanted to take a shower and now I can't. I'll have to stand here with—" He cut off her rant. “-with my cum in your pussy and the memory of me sliding in and out of 13

14 you." She huffed. Nichelle waited for Dante to get zipped up and settled into his chair before she peeked through the curtains to scan her audience. She shouldn't have cared whether anyone saw Dante zipping up his jeans. She should have embarrassed him like he did her. Only difference between her and Dante was that she actually did care about him. "Okay. We're waiting.” Dante chuckled. Nichelle sneered. Releasing a long breath, she grabbed the plastic wand attached to the curtain and pulled it back in one steady motion. The high sun reflected off the glass so that she was momentarily blinded. Once she regained her focus, she saw her three friends staring back at her. Though she couldn't see exactly where their gazes fell on her body, she did catch Zeke shaking his head before he retreated from the show. Then Happy gave her a thumbs-up sign before she pulled back. Lennon stayed. His attention split between his wristwatch and her. Nichelle took a deep breath and raised a smile. She could be as cool as Dante if she wanted. Standing in the window completely naked, Nichelle felt cold despite the volcanic heat pumping out of the heater in front of her. "Man, it's toasty in here. Let me turn down the heat.” Dante started to get up. "Sit your ass back down or I'll hurt you,” Nichelle said between gritted teeth. Dante laughed. “Your little ass is not going to do anything.” He craned his head to stare at her backside. “Let me rephrase that. Your big ass on a short frame is not going to do anything." Nichelle shook her head. “You love every minute of this, don't you?" Dante looked at his watch. “At least the last two minutes. Only four more to go." Gazing across to the windows on the other side, she caught Lennon looking at his watch then back at her. Once he gave her a thumbs-up sign Nichelle put her hand to her head. "Why am I doing this? Whose idea was it to start this thing anyway?” She crossed her arms over her chest. "Ah ah! You're covering up your lovely assets. One call to Lennon and I can have you disqualified right now so that you have to start all over.” Dante wagged his finger at her. "Fine.” She put her hands to her hips. “Better?" Dante shifted in his seat. “Actually, yeah, much. How about you put your arms over your head and rest them on top of your head so that we can see your entire body?" 14

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She shook her head but couldn't suppress the laugh that forced its way threw her clenched lips. “I can't wait until we get to the next one.” She glared at him. “I'm deciding if I should even shower for that one." Dante cocked his head. Even confused he was cute. "By the way, this game was all your idea,” Dante said. Nichelle thought for a moment. "Three minutes in,” Dante said while she still pondered. "No." "Yes. I made sure to set my timer when you pulled back the curtain.” He showed off his digital watch to her. "No, I mean all of this wasn't my idea. If I remember correctly, it was yours." "Then you're not remembering correctly. Did you forget about the getting caught by Zeke? We were making out behind the media bleachers seven years ago at the Mardi Gras parade?" "Yes, I remember. I also remember you saying that it was all a joke.” Recalling that statement felt like a punch in Nichelle's stomach all over again. "Yes, because you looked all panicky about us finding each other attractive. God, I want to fuck you again.” Dante ran his tongue over his lips as he stared at her naked body. Talking to Dante passed the time so that Nichelle forgot about being naked in front of a window in broad daylight. What her mother would say if she knew about this? "Settle down, D. What's my time?” She scratched her naked belly. After glancing at his watch he proclaimed, “Four minutes in. Anyway, don't you remember that after I tried to blow off the situation, you were the one who came up with this elaborate story about us doing a sexy scavenger hunt? You told Zeke that one of the items on the list was to kiss behind the TV personalities doing the play-by-play of the parade." Nichelle opened her mouth to refute it but she couldn't. She had made up that story and thus started the whole thing. "But wait. The following year, you were the one who got everyone into it. We could have just left what we did that following year alone.” This time it was her turn to wag her finger at him. 15

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"Yeah, we could have.” He leaned forward. “But then I wouldn't have gotten to kiss you again. You ran away from me like I had the plague after that first kiss." "I did not.” She wanted to cross her arms over her chest again but instead she dropped them down to her sides. "Okay, so when you avoided my calls for the first couple of weeks, what was that all about?” Dante nudged her calf with the toe of his boot. Nichelle flinched back. “How in the world would you remember now what I did six years ago?" She huffed, waiting for his answer. Gazing at him, it was the first time Dante appeared tense. Gone was his smile. His face held a serious expression. "I remembered,” he said. Nichelle nodded. “What you must have forgotten about, Mr. I-Know-Everything, is that you had a girlfriend at the time. I didn't want to mess that up." "You got me.” He pointed to Nichelle. “You have an answer to everything, don't you?" She smiled. “I have to stay on my toes with you." Nichelle nodded. Returning her gaze outside, she found Lennon holding up two fingers with the biggest grin on his face. "Lennon is getting into this more than we are.” Nichelle giggled. "Not possible in my case.” Dante's voice dipped down an octave, grabbing Nichelle's attention. Staring at him, although he looked like the same free-spirited young man from their college days, Dante had changed. He had a serene aura about him, a settled look that suited him. Or maybe she was projecting, wanting him to be all of those things for her. Dante glanced at his watch. “I can't believe it.” He snickered. “I thought for sure you would have raised a stink about this task and here you are down to the last minute. I'm really proud of you." She shook her head. “Let me save a rain forest or two then you can be proud of me. For now I'm just a woman trying to get her freak on.” She turned back to the window, this time gazing up. “Oh shit!” Nichelle bent slightly and nearly took a step back. 16

17 "What's wrong?" "Maids.” Nichelle couldn't look up again. Once she had seen the two women wearing matching blue tops and gray polyester pants pointing and laughing at her, Nichelle felt as big as a flea. "It's cool.” Dante brought his hand up like he was shushing her. "Easy for you to say. You're not standing stark naked in a window. Oh God. What if their calling security or worse, the police? I'll have a record. My mother will tell the family how I ruined the family name." "Relax, kid. It'll be okay." "You know, I have always hated you calling me kid. I'm only two months younger than you." Steeling her nerves, Nichelle gazed up. Now a third housekeeper joined the duo. She was done for. "Five, four, three, two, one. Okay, move back. You're finished.” Dante bolted from his chair and closed the curtain. Nichelle scurried to the bathroom and closed the door behind herself. She needed a hot shower to wash away the memories of those peering eyes. Embarrassment should have plagued her. Nichelle stood for six minutes completely nude in front of God, her friends, the man who curled her toes and whoever else wanted a free peep show. Her hand trembled as she adjusted the knobs to blast her body with hot water. A smile crawled across her face with the thought of how brave she was. Of course this wouldn't be a story she could share with her mother over cups of flavored coffee but she could muse over this with, say, Dante on cold winter night or a hot summer night or any night of the week. Just face it, girl, he's got you sprung. With her skin red from the pelting water and her mind more muddled than before, Nichelle pulled the curtain back. She screamed when she saw Dante standing in the bathroom waiting for her. "Can't you knock?” she asked and swaddled her body in one of the hotel's thick terrycloth towels. "Are you kidding me? We just had some mind-blowing sex, I saw you standing naked, and you're getting all demure now?” He scratched his head. 17

18 "A girl's got to have some secrets.” She stepped out of the tub and toweled off the rest of her body. "Your secrets may all get revealed. You didn't do your full six minutes."

Chapter 3 Dante had already argued and smoothed out with Lennon about Nichelle's time. Turned out that Lennon started his watch five seconds slower than Dante. When Dante'd told Nichelle that her time was up, Lennon saw it as she stopped five seconds too early. "What?” Nichelle screamed. “That's bullshit. You told me when my time was up. Who said I didn't do my full six minutes?" Dante loved stirring Nichelle up. Her golden brown skin got all red around her cheeks and down her neck. She was so easy. "It was Lennon, wasn't it?” She stormed into the main room. “Let me call him. I'll wrap that scarf around his neck and—" Nichelle stopped when she saw Dante snickering. He'd tried hiding it better than when she caught him but the more she ranted the funnier it became to him until he finally howled in laughter. Nichelle slammed the receiver back down. “You son-of-a-bitch. I should have known you would try to trick me.” She slipped on her underwear and her clothes in a matter of seconds. “Don't worry. You're going to get yours right now.” Nichelle picked up the phone. As soon as Dante heard her ask for Happy and for Happy to come to their room, he knew number five was up next. After the call, Nichelle plopped on one of the beds and combed her hair. "Lennon really did question your time,” Dante admitted. He relayed the story to her to which she responded by rolling her eyes. "Not my fault. You told me when to stop.” She pushed her hair off of her shoulders. "Do you always do what I tell you to do?” He grinned. Nichelle stood and hovered over his face, her lips so close to his mouth he could almost taste the Chapstick flavor she slathered on her full lips. 18

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"I'm sure you'd like for me to do more, right?” she whispered. Dante's mouth open to respond when a knock at the door stopped him. "Ah, time for your first task.” Nichelle damn near skipped to the door. She peered through the peephole then opened the door wide, letting in Happy. Still wearing her bookish glasses, Happy's pink turtleneck hugged her body and her black jeans complimented her slim figure. "Two women,” Dante began as he rubbed his hands together. “This looks good for me." "You may not think that way after you hear what you have to do.” Nichelle sat on the bed with Happy beside her. “You want to tell him?" Happy beamed. “Nichelle wants you to masturbate for five minutes." Dante felt his mouth drop open before he could stop it. Gazing at his dear friend, the woman he actually considered his best friend, he tried to read her expression. "You're serious?” he asked. "As serious as you having me stand in that window for six minutes.” She sat in a modified lotus position on the bed against the headboard with Happy sitting next to her. “Happy will be the official time keeper." "Great.” Dante put his hands to his hips and shifted in his spot between the two beds. "Of course you know that if you're jerking off for five minutes, you can't ejaculate until time is up. If you do, just like with Nichelle, you'll have to start all over again.” Happy beamed with her official news. "You two seem really happy with that." "And why shouldn't we?” Nichelle gazed at Happy. “It's the gift that keeps on giving." The two women laughed although in Dante's head the laughter sounded more like cackling. "Now strip,” Nichelle said and waved her hand to him. “We don't have all day. There are four more tasks to do today." No use delaying the inevitable. Dante pulled his shirt off and tossed it on the empty bed. 19

20 "Wow, never thought he would be this eager,” Happy said. "He was a barrel of laughs before I did my task.” Nichelle looked at him. Dante paused for a moment, waiting to see if she would spill everything that they had done before her big reveal. Nichelle remained mum. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't peg Nichelle. After that first kiss, he wanted her. Nichelle had other plans. She had continued dating other men until a couple of years ago when Dante charged over to her apartment with a bottle of red wine and all the charm he could muster. That was the night it all changed. Thinking about how they made love that night hardened his dick, something the women noticed. "At least he's getting into this,” Nichelle commented. "Yeah, I would have hated to see him choking a limp chicken.” Happy giggled and she sounded like a chicken. "You two are so cute.” Dante stripped off his jeans as soon as he kicked off his boots. Before he pulled down his white BVDs, Happy stopped him. "Just one second.” Happy hopped off the bed and ran into the bathroom. "Is that where the camera is hidden or is she getting sick?” Dante asked, his hands resting on the waistband of his underwear. Nichelle didn't answer. She sucked in her bottom lip and her gaze remained on his growing hard-on. Damn, if Happy wasn't in the room... "Back!” Happy bounded into the room with a white bath towel in her hand. “'Cuse me." She squeezed behind him then made her way around him. Happy snapped the towel out and spread it on the floor in front of his feet as though it were his own mini runway. "There. Just in case you have a little oopsie.” Happy jumped back on the bed. “Or are you a shooter?" Dante snatched the towel from the floor. “Why don't I just hold it and use as needed." Happy held up her wrist and made a series of beeping noises on her digital watch before Dante pulled down his tighty whities. Glancing at him, she said, “Anytime you're ready, I'll start the clock. As soon as you touch Mr. Willy we're a-go." Dante let out a long sigh. “The things we do for—” He paused, thinking of the right words to 20

21 use. “-fun.” Then he dropped his underwear and stepped out of them. Without hesitation, Dante wrapped his hand around his shaft. He felt it pulsating in his hand. Sliding his hand up, he peered at the two women to gauge their reaction. Happy's finger hovered over a side button on her watch but he wasn't sure if she activated it. "Happy, did you start the clock?” Dante asked. "Oh! Sorry.” She clicked a button, making the watch beep again. “Proceed." Dante released another long breath but this time it came out like a growl. “This isn't the most seductive of atmospheres, you know. You two don't have to stare at me like I'm a lab animal." "You mean like you all gawked at me like I was a new puppy in the window?” Nichelle countered. She crossed her arms over her chest as she stared in his eyes. "I did like your puppies.” He winked. She sneered. Nichelle couldn't make a face at him that wouldn't make him fall more in love with her. Yep, he could no longer deny it. Since the moment he'd met her ten years ago he had fallen head over heels for her. Of course back then it was his little head doing all of his thinking. It had all started off as lust. And why not? Nichelle had a smoking body, great eyes, and perfect lips. Once they hit the sack, Dante couldn't function. "A little slow, isn't he?” Happy said. Her head tilted to the side as she watched him making slow, even strokes up and down his shaft. He had five minutes to play with, pun intended. Why rush it? "I think he likes to perform for us.” Nichelle smiled. “Is that what it is, Dante? You want Happy and I to watch you play with yourself?" "It's not a bad way to spend a Saturday afternoon, is it?” He chuckled. "A minute down. I must admit, Dante, you have a better body than I thought you would have. No wonder you want—" Nichelle's hard jab to Happy's side stopped the pint-sized cutie from continuing. "Uh, wanted to see him do this,” Happy concluded. "Smooth, Hap, real smooth.” Dante broke his gaze from the two and dropped it to the floor. 21

22 Staring at his feet wouldn't get him going. So what was Happy going to say? Maybe ‘no wonder Nichelle wanted to see him jerk off because she loved having sex with him? Loved his body? Loved him?’ Dante would be damned if he would admit to her first how he felt and have her laugh in his face. Then again, maybe he should come clean. Pretty soon things would change. He didn't know how Nichelle would accept his news. Nichelle. Looking at her now and Dante stroked himself a little faster. She had his heart ten times over but everything got in the way. School, family, other people, real life, the games. Even when he and Nichelle had met for their secret trysts, they didn't have time to really talk about their feelings. The time they had they devoted to that one crucial thing: sex. "Four minutes. Man, Dante, you're doing great.” Happy put her back against the headboard. She stretched her legs out in front of her then crossed them at the ankles. "Yeah, he's doing too great. Maybe he needs to be shaken up a bit,” Nichelle said with a mischievous tone in her voice. “Happy, what would you say is every man's number one sex fantasy is?" Happy put her finger to her chin, looking more comical than thoughtful. “Hmm, I'm no sex expert but I would think it's seeing two women get it on." On hearing that prompt, Dante sped up his pumping. Easy, big fella. You're going to blow this one ... literally! "Very funny, ladies. You two should take that act on the road." Sweat rolled down the center of Dante's back. Each hair it hit on the way down caused his heart to accelerate. Or maybe it was the idea of seeing his favorite girl get it on with Happy. Dante kept his gaze to the floor. He clutched the towel in his free hand, balling it tightly. Then he heard a shuffling sound on the bed. Glancing up for a moment, he saw Nichelle sitting behind Happy with her arms around the petite blonde. "Are you working out, Nichelle?” Happy asked. “Your arms feel incredible.” She ran her hand up and down Nichelle's arms. Dante's heartbeat pounded in his head and ears. He wanted the throbbing sound to drown out everything the women said. "Glad you noticed,” Nichelle began. “I have been hitting the gym three days a week. But if you think my arms are impressive, check out my legs.” She stretched her legs out and wrapped 22

23 them around Happy. “Feel my quads. Nice, huh?" Happy ran her hands over Nichelle's thighs. “They are nice. Hey, Dante, you want to feel? Oh, never mind. I guess you're a little busy right now." "Funny,” he said between gritted teeth. “Time?" "I think I need to start hitting the gym too, Nic. Feel my stomach.” While Nichelle sat behind Happy, Happy took her friend's hand and placed it on her stomach. “Wait. You can't really feel it that way. Let me pull my shirt up so you can get a good feel.” As promised, Happy lifted the hem of her shirt, showing off the underside of her pink bra, then placed Nichelle's hand on her stomach. “Don't you think it's a little flabby?" "Let me see.” Nichelle smoothed her hand over Happy's milky, white flesh. It didn't help that Nichelle moaned. “Feels fine to me. You have such smooth skin. Very soft." "It's my new body wash. Gives me the softest skin like a baby's. And smell me. It's lavender rose. You like?" Nichelle buried her face in the side of Happy's neck. “Very nice." "Time, damn it!” Dante yelled this time. "Sorry, Dante. I guess we got carried away.” Happy glanced at her watch. “Three minutes in. Just two minutes left. Man, in two minutes I could do a lot of things." Dante tried cheating, not squeezing his cock as hard and especially not pulsing his fist at the tip. As soon as he caught sight of the dynamic duo sitting on the bed together all intertwined, he stroked faster. His hand automatically squeezed his mushroom tip. "What could you do, Happy?” Nichelle asked, sounding more like a game show host's assistant than his friend who wrote ad copy for a well-known public relations firm. "People tell me I'm a great kisser.” Happy craned her head to the side. “You have the most perfect lips for kissing. Dante, are you aware of that? Don't you just love Nichelle's lips?” Happy ran her finger over her friend's bottom lip. "Christ, Hap, you're killing me here.” Dante turned his back to the duo but the mirror over the dresser provided him with the show. His hand never stopped moving. Aware that their image could still be seen, Nichelle continued their play. “I have never kissed a woman before." "Neither have I. I think we should explore the possibilities, don't you?" 23

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Nichelle lowered her head to kiss Happy. "Time! Time! Time! Shit, it's got to be five minutes by now.” Dante braced his hand on the dresser to keep from collapsing to the floor. An exasperated Happy sighed loud enough for Dante to hear it then referred to her watch. “One minute." Good. Dante could last just sixty seconds longer. "It's going to be one long minute,” Happy teased. Dante glared at them through the reflection in the mirror. “You two are loving this, aren't you?" "Would you have enjoyed this more with Zeke or Lennon in the room?” Nichelle stroked her hand through Happy's hair as she spoke to him. "Probably would have done this without, uh, distractions.” Dante felt his body trembling. Too many sensations couldn't stop him from coming. He just had to wait a few more seconds. "We're distracting. I didn't know that.” Happy said with a giggle. "Is my time up yet?” The muscles in Dante's shoulder and arm burned the longer he caressed himself. "Man, you would think a man playing with himself would be happy. You're a grouch.” Happy sat up. “Down to your last thirty seconds." "Wow, I'm proud of you, D. I didn't think you would be able to make it.” Nichelle pushed her hair off of her shoulders. "Yeah,” he began with a shaky voice. “Never doubt the kid again." "You're right. I think that deserves a congratulatory kiss." Although he fought the impulse, Dante brought his gaze up to the mirror. In the reflection, he saw Nichelle cradling Happy's head in her arms and placing her delectable lips on hers. At one point he thought he saw an exchange of tongues. "Fuck!” Dante squeezed his eyes closed but the image lingered. “Time!" No answer. His cum simmered in his sac. He'd tried slowing his fist down from its stroking 24

25 motion but his body wouldn't allow him to deny himself that pleasure. Like a trigger, as soon as heard one of the women moan in pleasure, he erupted. He managed to hold the towel in front of him to catch his semen. Panting like a wild boar, he let himself go and wadded the towel into a ball. "Did I make it?” Dante turned to the women who now sat like innocent choir girls, side by side with their hands on their laps. "Should I tell him?” Happy asked Nichelle. "You think he can take it?” Nichelle replied. "I can't do that shit again. Not right away and not with you two in the room.” Although he wanted to take a shower himself, he waited for the verdict. Happy grinned. “You made it.” She scooted off the bed. “I didn't think you had it in you to pull it off.” Standing on her tiptoes, she kissed him on his cheek. “Congrats.” She turned to Nichelle. “Before I go, I guess I can tell Nichelle her next task, right?" Dante finally smiled after his five-minute torture. “I'd be delighted if you did.” He couldn't wait to see Nichelle's expression when she heard what he had in store for her.

Chapter 4 Nichelle checked Happy's expression to see if she would reveal anything. No matter the circumstance, Happy was, well, happy. Although their impromptu kiss was unplanned, Nichelle had to admit that she did like it. Happy's soft lips molded around hers. She had a delicacy that touched Nichelle's heart. Just because she enjoyed the kiss didn't mean she would be bringing women to her bedroom. She still enjoyed the look and feel of a man. Watching Dante stroke his magnificent cock for a solid five minutes soaked her panties. "Dante wants four minutes with you in the shower,” Happy said. Nichelle blinked. “That's it?" "Wait. I want to amend that,” Dante covered his deflated cock with the cum-covered towel he held. "You can't change the tasks while the game is in play. You know the rules.” Happy put her hands to her hips. 25

26

"It's not that big of a change. Instead of a shower, how about a ten-minute bath?” Dante gazed at Nichelle with weary eyes. A bath didn't sound all that bad to her. Maybe there she and Dante could talk, clear the air. "I don't have a problem with that,” Nichelle said. "I'll have to confer with my other judges.” Happy put her hands to her hips in an official way. "Fuck them. I'll run the bathwater.” Dante headed to the bathroom. "How are we timing this?” Nichelle asked. Happy leaned forward and put her hand on Nichelle's. “I think you two need to do some talking. Me and the boys will hang out in our room but take your cell phone in the bathroom with you. I'm assuming that once I get back to the room that you two should be in the tub and the clock will start then. I'll call you ten minutes later, okay?" The sound of rushing water into the tub caught Nichelle's attention. The luxury of playing was that they always had someone there watching them, keeping them from dealing with real issues. Sitting in a bathtub alone with Dante scared her. Happy strolled to the door. "Hey,” Nichelle said, grabbing the woman's attention. Happy turned around. "Thanks for, um, everything." Happy smiled. “Anytime.” She winked before leaving. To ensure their privacy, Nichelle turned the deadbolt. Putting out the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign just opened the door for kids in the hotel to be even more annoying and bang on the door. "Come on in, darling,” Dante said after he turned off the tap. “The water is fine." "Just a sec.” Nichelle stripped off her clothes again. Had she known this would be the next undertaking she would have remained naked. What was she thinking? With the type of day she and Dante had planned she needed to stay naked. After pinning her hair up and grabbing her cell phone she peeked her head into the bathroom. Dante, all stretched out in the tub, had his eyes closed. He must have sensed her in the room. 26

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"Don't just stand there. Get in the tub and I'll rub your shoulders." Nichelle swallowed hard. This would be the longest ten minutes ever. **** "So you left them alone?” Lennon asked. He paced the floor as though Nichelle and Dante were babies left alone with a loaded gun rather than two rational adults looking for some fun. “What if they cheat?" "Lennon, you're taking all of this way too seriously. It's just a game.” Zeke stretched out over the double bed by the bathroom. Happy marveled at how strong and powerful his thighs looked in his loose-fitting jeans. She licked her lips then brought her gaze up to see him staring back at her. "The whole idea of this day, this thing, is to make it a game.” Lennon tapped his watch then paced. “If it's not a game then it's just—" "Sex.” Happy smiled. Lennon stopped pacing so she knew she'd grabbed his attention. "Speaking of which, why don't we do something to pass the time?” She slipped off her hat and glasses and set them on a dresser. “For six years, we've been the happy scorekeepers while our friends have the time of their lives." "What are you suggesting?” Lennon asked, looking more worried than he needed to appear. "I'd say, why don't we just play along.” She kicked off her shoes but left her pink socks on. “What do you say I stand here for six minutes naked and you two time me?" "For real?” Zeke asked and bolted up from his reclined position. Happy reached for the button-fly on her jeans. “For real." Zeke sat at the end of the bed right in front of Happy as though her name was Mystique and she was about to give him a private lap dance. Staring into Zeke's eyes right now, he could have called her Mystique and she would have shimmied and jiggled every part of her body for him. Lennon cleared his throat and captured both of their attention. “We have to, uh, keep time. We can't do that if we're, um, looking at you." 27

28 Happy grinned. Lennon proved to be just as adorable. He carried beautiful facial features. Her gaze dropped down to his hands. Though skinnier and shorter than Zeke, Lennon's hands were nothing to ignore. Nice long fingers made them stand out. As soon as she imagined them inside of her pussy, her juices flowed until taking off her jeans were no longer an option. It was a necessity. "Then how about this. Zeke, you sit and watch me.” Happy took off her jeans with Zeke's help. He pulled on each pant leg until they were removed. Then he tossed the garment at Lennon, who set them on the bed. “And Lennon, you jerk off for five minutes." Zeke clapped his hands and rubbed them together. “Sounds like a plan to me. Let's go." "Wait!” Lennon held up his hand after Happy removed her shirt and was working on her bra. “We'll still be doing our thing while their third task will be over. They're supposed to be taking a four-minute shower." "Oh yeah. I forgot to tell you. They're taking a ten-minute bath instead and I told Nichelle to take her time." "You what?” Lennon started pacing again. “You can't change the rules midstream. That's not how a game is played. With any game, you have to have rules. Each team player has to be aware of the rules and everything has to be followed according to plan. There's an order, a system, a—" "A naked woman in our room,” Zeke said, cutting off Lennon's rant. Happy watched Lennon stop pacing and bring his gaze up to stare at her. His brown eyed-gaze made her skin tingle all over. Although she never broke her gaze from Lennon's, Happy said, “Zeke, are you timing me?" After a long pause he finally answered, “Sure. Yeah. Whatever." Lennon swallowed hard, evident by his bobbing Adam's apple. "Damn, girl, who knew your body looked like that under all of those clothes?” Zeke stared pointed at her breasts then dipped his gaze down to her vagina with its landing strip of hair covering it. "Lennon, are you going to masturbate for the five minutes or not? I'm sure I'm a minute into my part, right, Zeke?" Again, Zeke waited a beat before saying, “Yeah, right, whatever." 28

29 "Are you afraid, Len?” Happy asked. She put her hands on her hips and the position caused Zeke to groan. Lennon let his hands fall down to his sides. Happy never thought Lennon would go for this plan. Something changed in her that she now saw Lennon and Zeke in different lights. It may have had something to do with participating in this strange fuck fest every year. Or it could have been that she was just attracted to them both. Zeke and Lennon were nothing alike. One was African-American and the other was White. Zeke was buff and Lennon carried a thin swimmer's body. One was terminally hip and Lennon, well, he didn't seem to embarrass her out in public like he used to when they first became friends. Lennon pulled his pants down to his ankles. Happy watched the tip of his crimson tipped cock peeking through the opening in his white-and-blue striped boxer shorts. He dropped his shorts to his feet so that the two pooled around his sneakers. "Mmm, better,” Happy purred. She stared at Zeke. “Are you keeping good time, Z?" This time he didn't bother to fake that he was keeping some sort of record. His hands, balled into fists, pressed into his thighs as though he were trying to keep himself from leaping up and grabbing her. His breathing came out so hard that she felt it blowing across her naked belly. Gazing over at Lennon, he'd already grabbed his dick at the base. Even Lennon's cock matched him. It was thin and long with a slight bend to the right. Just put a little red scarf around its neck and they would be twins. He began stroking it, slow at first. When Happy took a step toward Zeke, Lennon got faster. Even he walked closer to the duo. Zeke opened his legs up wider. His tongue darted over his thick lips. "I know this isn't on their list but we don't have to stick to Dante and Nichelle's plan,” Happy said. She put her hand on Zeke's shoulder. From the way he jumped she thought she had electricity coursing through her fingers. "Yeah, right, sure.” Zeke loosened his fists and slid his hands down his legs. "What ... do ... you ... uh ... mean?” Lennon's voice broke on each word as he kept up his pumping pace. "I'd say we do whatever the fuck we want to do. For example, Dante's rule didn't ask for Nichelle to touch herself." Happy put her hands on her breasts. They fit her small hands, the hardened nipples brushing 29

30 her palms. She imagined how they would get swallowed in Zeke and Lennon's hands. She even thought about the sensations. Zeke's hand would be rough whereas she suspected Lennon's hands to be soft like hers. "Oh God!” Lennon cried. Happy looked at him. He doubled over a couple of times as though he could feel himself coming but wanted to stop it. Yet he wouldn't tear his gaze off of her. "Maybe it would help if I turned my back on you two.” Happy turned around. Facing the mirror over the dresser, she stared at their reflections. She didn't need to see them to know what they were doing. She heard Zeke moving around on the bed then listened to a pop and a zipper coming down. She licked her lips and swallowed. "Put your hands on the dresser and bend over,” Zeke demanded. Bookish Happy would have balked at that command. Horny Happy more than obliged. She braced her hands on the cool pressboard dresser, spread her feet apart, and belt over. Within seconds, she felt Zeke's hands grab her thighs. As soon as she felt his cool tongue touch her ass cheek, she jumped. "That wasn't in the rules either but don't stop,” she moaned. After laving both cheeks, Zeke's tongue dipped between, sliding over her ass hole, stiffening her body. There was another place she wanted his talented mouth. Standing on her tiptoes and arching her back to a painful degree, Happy raised her hips higher to get Zeke to go lower. It took him no time to move his mouth down to her pussy opening and dart his tongue inside of her. "Juicy,” he said between licks. “Sweet.” He massaged her ass cheeks in his meaty hands. “So fucking good." "I ... can't ... w-w-watch,” Lennon stammered. "Stop jerking off, Len,” Happy said nearly breathless. Reluctantly Happy stood up straight and faced Zeke. Indeed, his pants had been undone but still pulled up. Grabbing the legs of his jeans, he pulled them down. She kissed him, tasting her juices on his mouth. She found her essence to be a bit salty but she would let Zeke call her sweet if he wanted. With a hard shove, she pushed him back on the bed so he was lying down again. Happy 30

31 climbed onto his lap with her back to him. "Come here, Lennon." As Lennon walked toward her, Happy grabbed Zeke's cock. The thick member pulsated in her hand. Just like with Lennon, Zeke's dick fit him to a T. Long, wide, dark and commanding all described his perfect shaft. "Stand right here,” Happy ordered as soon s Lennon got in front of her. Happy positioned herself over Zeke's plump tip. She eased herself down, lodging his head in her pussy. She sucked in air as his girth stretched her but it was a delicious feeling she craved. Zeke held onto her hips, helping her to come down fully on his cock. Once he was fully inside of her, Happy squeezed her eyes shut and let the feeling of fullness overtake her body, loving the small tremors that shook her. "Damn, you're fucking tight!” Zeke exclaimed. “Don't move just yet." "I wasn't going to.” Happy reached forward and grabbed Lennon's jutting cock. Lennon, as he stepped closer to her, stripped off his multiple layers of sweaters and shirts so that now he stood naked with just clothes at his feet. Happy cradle his balls in one hand, stroked the base of his shaft with her other hand and rocked herself on Zeke's cock. The tip of Lennon's penis wept a single drop of pre-cum, which Happy licked. Now Lennon, he did taste sweet. She wondered at that moment what Zeke would taste like. Call her greedy. Call her crazy. She wanted both men. Lennon put his hand to the back of her head, encouraging her to go deep. She did, sliding his slender member in her mouth until she reached her hand that was still wrapped around the base. No way could she have taken him all in her mouth. She hoped the trick would work on Zeke. As though he had read her thoughts and knew she had been thinking about him, Zeke sat up. He reached around her and cupped her tits. It was then that she noticed how incredibly soft his hands were. So her assumptions were way off. At least they were with Zeke. Zeke undulated his hips under her, moving his cock in and out of her until Happy was on the brink of coming. She sucked on Lennon harder, faster. She felt his legs shaking. Lennon sucked air between his teeth and even let out a curse or two. It was good to have Lennon a little out of control. Didn't happen that often. "Oh shit, Hap! Fuck!” Zeke held onto Happy's hips and pounded into her. 31

32 Happy didn't let Lennon's dick go from her hand or mouth. She wanted to please both men. If they came at the same time, she would be overjoyed. "Hap-Hap-Happy! This is-it's-oh shit!” Lennon pumped his hips to fuck her mouth. The corners of her mouth grew sore but she wouldn't stop, not when she had him so close. She felt her pussy constricting around Zeke's cock. Happy thought she could hold out for a little longer until Zeke slipped one hand down to play with her clit. Happy snaked her tongue around Lennon's hardened penis as she rode Zeke harder and faster. Forget the men. She was about to come at any moment. "Oh God!” Lennon screamed. "Holy shit!” Zeke soon followed. Happy balled her toes into the carpet, squeezed her eyes shut and felt Lennon's milky cum hit the back of her throat. She eased up on the pressure but swallowed down every bit of his semen that he offered. Zeke held Happy down on his lap and let out a long, loud, low growl as he came deep inside of her. His hot seed bathed the inside of her cunt. Happy removed her mouth from Lennon's cock. She kissed the shiny tip then gazed up at Lennon. His normally pale face had flushed cheeks. His brown hair looked wild around his face. Without warning or invitation, he bent over and kissed her lovingly on her lips. Her body tingled from the sweet gesture. When she broke from the kiss, Zeke pulled her chin around and he, too, kissed her. His full lips encompassed hers. She put her hand to the back of his head to hold herself steady. She loved these men. "I have never done anything like this before,” Zeke said when they stopped kissing. “Dude, you want to pull your pants up now?" Lennon stood looking a little dumbfounded. “No,” he finally said. “I want to run around this whole hotel naked and screaming about what I just did. This was fucking amazing." Happy had to giggle at Lennon's enthusiasm. “I don't want you guys to think that I do this all of the time. I don't." "Then why now? Why us?” Zeke rested his head on her shoulder. "You don't know?” she asked and nuzzled her head against his. “Oh shit!” Happy jumped off 32

33 of Zeke's lap and ran toward the other bed where her cell phone sat. “We were supposed to call Dante and Nichelle." Lennon grabbed her hand to stop her. “Let's let them be for a while." Happy blinked at his suggestion. Mr. Do-The-Game-By-The-Book was suggesting to break the rules? "We all know what's third on their list. I think they'll be tied up for a while.” Lennon stepped out of his shoes and pants. Zeke nodded at the statement. Happy knew Lennon was right. Nichelle would be asking a lot from Dante pretty soon if she hadn't already. "So now what?” Happy asked. "Number four on the list was a shower,” Lennon said. "Not with all three of us.” Zeke bolted to his feet. The longer Happy stared at his impressive cock, the more erect it got. "How big is that shower stall?” Zeke asked. Happy smiled. “I'm sure we can all squeeze in." "So what do you all think is going on over there now?” Lennon asked. "Don't know. Don't care,” Zeke shot back. However Happy noticed how the men carried a look of worry on their faces. They felt exactly how she felt. What would happen to the close five friends now? Could Nichelle go through with it?

Chapter 5 Nichelle stared at her cell phone sitting on top of the toilet lid for the seventh time. Why hadn't Happy called? Nichelle's skin wrinkled from how long she and Dante had been in the bathtub together. "You need me to call nine-one-one?” Dante asked. His arms wrapped around her and his 33

34 hands rested just below her breasts. Nichelle whipped her head around to him. “What? Why?" "You've craned your head to look at that watch so many times I think you might get whiplash if you keep it up." Nichelle jabbed him in the ribs with her elbow and settled her body back on top of his. “Not funny." "What is your obsession with time anyway? You're getting to be as bad as Lennon. This is just a game, sweetie. No life or death decisions here.” He kissed the side of her head. Sure, it was all a game to Dante. Nichelle longed for the games to end. If only she could be strong enough to tell Dante that. "I'm just worried about Happy,” Nichelle said, stretching the truth a bit. “What if something happened to her on the way back to her room? She should have called by now, even if to say she's okay." "You're talking about a woman who holds a black belt in karate. Even though she's a little thing, Happy is mighty." The one thing she loved about Dante is the one thing she hated in him now: he was always right. Dante continued. “Besides, what if she's handling her business and that's why she hasn't called." Nichelle kicked open the drain to let some of the cold water out to replace it with steamy, hot water. "What are you talking about? Handling her business?” She twisted the valve with her toes. "Yeah. You know. Getting it on with Zeke or Lennon. Hell, the woman's a powerhouse. She could be doing both." Nichelle kicked the nozzle all the way open, full blast, splashing water all over the side of the tub and the floor. She struggled to sit upright and turn off the spraying water. The whole time Dante laughed so hard he snorted, a habit with him every time he laughed too much. Nichelle managed to turn the water off before she turned around to her friend. “Happy would never do that." 34

35 "Do what? Have sex?” In an exaggerated fashion, his eyes widened and he slapped his hand over his mouth. “I think you're right. She is a virgin, isn't she?" Again, Nichelle gave him a playful punch on his toned chest. “You can be an asshole sometimes, you know that?" "And yet you love me." When he chuckled, she didn't. Damn it, she did love him. Her stomach knotted thinking about admitting her feelings. The game had gone on far too long. Time for her to grow up. Time for the two of them to grow up and make some admissions. "But if it gives you the warm and fuzzy inside to make sure she's okay, why don't you call her? Let her know our time is up for this task and that you're ready for the next challenge. I hope you have a good one planned for me.” Dante flitted his eyebrows.

Nichelle swallowed then hopped out of the tub, careless that she left huge puddles on the floor wherever she stepped. She dried her hands enough to grab her cell phone. "Happy,” she called into the phone. The device automatically dialed her friend. On the third ring, Happy answered the phone. "Where have you been?” Nichelle asked before the woman could get a word out. “We're turning to prunes here in the bathtub. You were supposed to call over—" "Get, uh, out of the ... tub,” Happy said in an almost breathless tone. "Hap, are you okay? Have you been running?" "Little busy. Do your next task. Talk to you later." Happy disconnected the call. "That's odd,” Nichelle began. “Happy sounded like she'd been running. Maybe some guy followed her to our room and he's chasing her. Maybe she's hiding out from him. Maybe she needs help. Maybe—” Nichelle stopped as soon as she saw Dante snickering. “What's so damn funny?" He composed himself long enough to answer. “You. Think about it, babe. Happy is with two guys who she digs and they dig her. What did she tell you to do over the phone?" "She said she was busy and to go on to our next task.” Thoughts rolled around in her head of 35

36 what Happy could be doing. Could the pint-sized cutie be with Lennon or Zeke ... or both? "Doesn't sound like someone in need of help.” Dante held his hand out to usher Nichelle back into the bathtub. “Come on back in. You just got the water perfect." "No. I don't want to go back in." Dante braced his hands on the rim. “Don't make me come after you." "Dante, don't get out of the tub.” Nichelle held up her hand to stay him in his spot. Too late. Dante jerked to his feet causing a rush of water to wave to and fro in the white tub. With his body glistening with water and his dark hair damp, he looked good enough to fuck. Dante must have felt the same about her judging from his penis rising up to give Nichelle a salute. Nichelle didn't have to look down to know her nipples hardened from just looking at him. She felt her areolas getting tight and her knees getting weak. "You stay right there.” Nichelle stepped backward into the main hotel room. "Like hell I will without you.” Dante stepped out of the tub leaving an even bigger trail of water behind him. Nichelle squealed as she ran from him. He caught her by the bed closest to the bathroom. Tackling her onto the bed, Dante pinned her down by straddling her body. "Let me up! Get off of me!” Nichelle thrashed her legs around but to no avail. As Dante sat on her midsection, his knees on either side of her, he hovered his fingers over her face and wiggled them. "No.” She shook her head wildly. “Please, don't." "This is what happens when you don't obey me.” Dante dove his hands down and used those wiggly fingers on her bare sides. As much as Nichelle tried to stop him by grabbing his hands, laughing hysterically made her weak. All she could do was kick her legs and beg that he would stop soon. "Tell me you're sorry,” he said. “Tell me I'm the best lover in the world. Tell me I'm your best friend in the whole wide world." "Oh God! You're killing me! You have to stop.” She let her hands travel up his arms to his shoulders. 36

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As soon as her hands reached his shoulders, she reached for his damp, dark hair. With her touch, his stare became heavy-lidded. Water droplets that rolled down his face to his chin dripped on her chest. Drop, drop, drop. Nichelle's heartbeat thudded. Using all of her force, she rolled Dante onto his side to his back. Then she straddled him. "Is this a part of the game?” he asked. Nichelle didn't want to think of the game at the moment. Right now she had her man. She hoped after she told him what the third task was, she would really have her man. "No.” She grabbed his now hardened cock. The organ pulsed in her hand. Nichelle hovered her aching pussy over him. To guide her, Dante held her hips. Not that she needed any help. As soon as she felt the tip of his dick at her opening, Nichelle plunged down. Her sharp intake of breath matched his. She undulated her hips slowly at first, keeping her gaze on his. "Damn, I fucking love this day.” Dante raised his hips to get deeper inside of her. “We don't have to hide or pretend." "Ohhh, yeah.” Nichelle's breathy answer meant to respond to Dante's claim. She agreed with him. His erect penis felt too good inside of her to say anything coherently. "We can say and do whatever we want,” Dante said, gripping her hips tighter. Nichelle slammed her hands to his chest and ground herself on him. His perfectly-proportioned cock filled her. Just looking at him filled her heart. It was now or never. She had to tell him what was the third item on her list and risk the friendship she treasured. Dante snapped upward. He wrapped his long arms around her waist as he buried his face between her breasts. Nichelle cradled his head, resting her chin on his shoulder. Perfect. She never wanted to free herself from this position. "Fuck!” Dante drove his hips up, plunging deep inside of Nichelle. Feeling his hot cum shoot inside of her, Nichelle quickly followed with her own orgasm that shook her to her core. She gripped her fingernails into his shoulders and waited for her heart to regain a steady beat and her vocal chords to relax so that she could say what she needed to say. 37

38 "What you said just a minute ago about us saying anything we wanted to say today,” she began, “I think it's true." Dante kissed Nichelle's cheek then pulled back to kiss her lips. His mouth was hungry on hers, his tongue diving into her mouth and hands fisting her hair. He fell back onto his back and put his hands over his eyes as he struggled to regain his breath. "You're going to kill me, woman.” He laughed. Nichelle slipped off of him and curled next to his lean body. “Before you die, I just need one thing from you.” She swallowed hard. Dante, who must not have heard her, continued. “Everything has been going perfectly for me lately. I got a new car. My parents are getting along.” He removed his hands from his eyes and turned to Nichelle. “Did I tell you that about my parents already?" Nichelle smiled. No matter how old Dante was, having his parents fighting and threatening to split up bothered him more than anything. It was his feeling about his parents’ commitment that cemented Nichelle's feelings for him. "No, you didn't,” she answered. He rested his head on the pillows again. “Yeah, they aren't fighting. They're even seeing a counselor. I'm even thinking about buying a house." Nichelle's skin prickled. “Really?" Dante smirked. “Yeah. Can you believe me buying a house? It's crazy." "Not crazy at all. Great. Wonderful.” She cleared her throat. “Perfect.” The time was now. She couldn't wait any longer. “Dante, I've been thinking about this a lot, especially for today." "Are you going to spring your next task on me? What? Do I have to run around outside naked or something?” He chuckled. "No.” Nichelle tried to keep poised. She meant business. "Are we ever going to leave this room today? Not that I don't like spending every minute of the day with you, sweetie. I'd just like to see the sun for once today." Nichelle took a deep breath. “We've known each other for a long time. You've stayed with me when your roommate kicked you out during your senior year. I've stayed with you when my apartment building burned down." 38

39 "Yeah, we've been there for each other.” He turned his head and stared at her in her eyes. “That's why what I have planned for my second task is very important to me. To us.” He kissed the tip of her nose. “Wait right here." "Dante, don't go. We really need to talk right now." He had already gotten out of bed and was at the dresser, rifling through his duffle bag. “Go ahead. I'm listening." She really didn't want to have this conversation with his back but she would take what she could get. "For the third task on the list, I want you to say those three little words to me.” Her heart stopped after she said her claim. He snickered again while his back was to her. “What? Where's my beer? Who's this dude? What's this thing? Suck my—" "Dante!” Nichelle sat up and rested her back against the headboard. She crossed her arms over her chest. "I'm just teasing. You know I love you. You're my girl.” He found what he was looking for in his bag and pulled it out. “Ah ha! There you are. I don't know what you really have planned for our third task but I'm going to jump ahead to my second one.” He turned around. He clutched a bottle of champagne in his hand. “I got a promotion at work that requires me to move to Florida. For number two on my list, I want the two of us to toast my promotion and getting the hell out of Virginia." Tears streamed down Nichelle's face. "Oh shit. You were serious.” Dante dropped his hands to his side. Nichelle's risk didn't pay off.

Chapter 6 While Lennon took his second shower, Happy, on her knees between Zeke's legs, cradled his balls in one hand, held the base of his hefty cock in her other while she slid her mouth up and down his shaft. The big man's body twitched and tightened each time she got up to his sensitive tip. Even after the threesome's long shower, Zeke still smelled of his usual musky cologne. He must have put some on his balls. 39

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His tight, black, curly pubic hair brushed against her hand. No way could she bring her mouth down all the way to the base. What she did must have suited him. It wasn't long before he put his hand to the back of her head, let out a long, inhuman growl, and shot a load of his gummy cum into her mouth. As soon as it hit the back of her throat, Happy swallowed, being sure not to do it too hard. "God damn, girl, you know how to please a man!” Zeke said between breaths. “You trying to tell me you've been this freaky ever since we've known each other and we've never acted on it?" Happy kissed the tip of Zeke's dick and sat back on her haunches. “You all blew me off like I was the studious, little bookworm. I bet you even thought I was a virgin, right?" "It's the glasses.” Zeke cocked a smile. “So what do you think is going on over there with D. and Nic?" Happy crawled over Zeke's large body. She rested her head on his chest with her ear listening to his thumping heart. “I don't know. I think Nichelle is looking for a lot more than what our boy Dante is willing to give. I mean, we all love each other. But that's not the type of love she's looking for with Dante. She's told me before she's ready to settle down and have a family." "Dante is not ready for that. My boy is going to be going to Florida to work P.R. for the Miami Heat. You know what that means. Girls all around, hanging around the players and all. Too much temptation for him." Happy raised her head and stared at her Neanderthal friend. “Come on. Are you trying to tell me Dante is willing to give up true love for some pussy?" Zeke blinked as though he wasn't expecting such foul language from her either. Then he smiled even wider. Happy tucked away in her mental rolodex to use some dirty talk the next time she fucked him. "Does Nichelle really love him or is her biological clock ticking so hard that she just has to snag somebody and Dante is it?” Zeke asked and rested his large hand on Happy's back. She liked the connection and feeling his warm hand on her body. Happy shook her head. “I know Nichelle. Whenever she talks about Dante, she lights up. She doesn't do that with any of you guys." "Do you light up when you talk about us?” Zeke lifted his head off the pillows to stare at her. 40

41 Happy swallowed hard. “Yes." Zeke blinked again in surprise. “Both of us?" The shower stopped. Happy turned her head for a moment toward the shower then returned her attention back to Zeke. "Yes." He shook his head. “This is fun and all but I ain't down for sharing my girl with another dude." Happy raised herself up and rolled off Zeke's hulking body. “Who said I was your girl? Why can't we keep it fun?" "Maybe I want my own girl, someone I can hang with and sex with on the regular. I don't want to have to share you.” He put a possessive arm around her shoulder when she moved next to him. Happy squirmed out of his grip and sat up. “I'm sorry. Unlike Nichelle, I'm not looking to nest any time soon. I like my life as it is and I'd like you and Lennon to be a part of it in more than just a friendship way too." Lennon strolled into the main bedroom area, a towel wrapped around his waist. "What do you think, Len?” Happy began. “Do you like to keep things the way they are or are you looking to tie me down too?" "Tie you down? You want to be tied down?” Lennon's eyes got wide. Happy watched the front of his towel slowly poke out the more the thought of binding her down to a bed or chair. She crawled over to the foot of the bed to get closer to him. "No, honey. Do you like our little threesome action going on here and want to keep it up or are you looking for something steady?" Before he answered, Lennon volleyed his attention between Happy and Zeke. "Don't look at Zeke for your answer,” Happy said. “Look at me. Do you want to keep this as fun as Dante and Nichelle had before today or do you want something serious? I need to know because if you want something I don't want, I'll need to move on." "I want you,” Lennon quickly said as though he were losing her right at that moment. 41

42 She smiled. "I just don't know about sharing you.” Lennon trailed his fingers down the side of her face. "Ha!” Zeke barked, shaking the bed under her. “I told you. We men are territorial. Possessive." As much as it hurt Happy to hear this, she shrugged her shoulders. Unlike Nichelle, she wouldn't be willing to push these guys into doing something they don't want to do. "Fine.” She jumped off the bed and padded toward the bathroom. “We could have made this work but if you all don't want to, then I understand." A knock at the door stopped her in her tracks. She heard sniffling from the other side as Happy crept to it. Peering through the peephole, she saw Nichelle wiping her eyes. Cracking the door open, Happy poked her head through the small crack. “What's wrong, honey?" "Dante ... he ... Florida ... laughed ... nothing.” Nichelle stammered her response as tears streamed down her face. From what Happy could gather, things didn't go well with task number three. Knowing that the guys were still naked, and now wasn't the time to explain her lack of dress, Happy asked Nichelle to stand in the hallway for a second and she would be right out.

"What's up?” Zeke asked. Happy threw on her clothes. “My guess is that Nichelle asked Dante to tell her he loves her and wanted to be with her and he didn't." Zeke made a strained face and shook his head. “He must not have told her that he loved her back." Happy put on her sweater and slipped on her glasses. “Sucks when you don't get the response you expect." After gargling with two capfuls of Scope she went outside to comfort her friend. "What about Zeke and Lennon?” Nichelle asked while Happy's arm wrapped around Nichelle's shoulders. "Don't worry. They'll be fine on their own. Besides, Dante may need someone to talk to himself." 42

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As soon as Happy mentioned Dante's name Nichelle broke down again. Even though Happy felt like crying too, she let her friend have her moment. Her threesome fantasy with Zeke and Lennon would have to be just that, a moment and a fantasy. Who knew the idea of no-strings-attached sex would turn guys off! "You want to go get a beer?” Happy asked. Nichelle, eyes swollen and red from crying, nodded her head. "Yeah, I think we both need one." **** Nichelle wiped her face with the back of her hand as she stared at her frosty mug full of sallow beer. Just staring at the mug reminded her of Dante's toast earlier that day. How did their special day turn to shit so quickly? Oh yeah. She wanted Dante to pledge his eternal love to her. "You ready to talk about it?” Happy asked before downing her second beer. Nichelle shook her head as she kept her gaze down. “You warned me,” she began. “You told me not to do it and I did it.” She lifted her head and stared at her observant friend. “You knew that if I forced Dante's hand on making a commitment that he wouldn't be able to handle it." "Honey, I hoped for the best for you. I just know our friend. He works public relations for the Norfolk Tides. He's always talking about the fine groupies hanging around the players. And he just got a job with the Heat.” Happy called for another beer from their waitress. "So you knew about it too, huh? Why am I the last person to know about what's going on in his life?" "He swore us to secrecy. He said he wanted to be the one to tell you. Why is it such a big deal anyway?" Nichelle ran her thumbnail along a chipped opening in the tabletop. She chewed on the inside of her cheek hoping that Happy wouldn't pick up on the real reason for her silence. "Oh no,” Happy said. “What have you two been doing?" Afraid to connect her gaze to Happy's, Nichelle turned her head to the nearly empty bar. It was that odd after lunch and before dinner time. "Nic?” Happy pressed. 43

44 Nichelle finally lifted her head. As soon as the waitress dropped off Happy's beer she said, “Dante and I have been seeing each other on the side since that day Zeke caught us kissing. For the last six years, we've been pretty exclusive." "But I thought you were seeing some player on the Tides team." Nichelle shook her head. “Brad's gay. I hang out with him to keep up his image. When we go out, I end up with Dante and Brad ends up with whatever guy he wants to be with for the night. The arrangement has worked pretty well until he made it to the majors." "Why didn't you tell me? I thought we were best friends." Nichelle wiped the back of her hand across her nose. “Same reason you didn't tell me you had a thing for Zeke." Happy didn't break her gaze when she chewed her bottom lip and carried a sheepish look on her face. "Not Zeke? Lennon? Nichelle studied Happy's expression. Even in the dimly lit hotel bar, she could see her pale friend's face turning a bright crimson shade. "Both?" "What can I say?” Happy shrugged her shoulders. “I know what I like and what I want." "Is that why you wouldn't let me in the room?” Nichelle slapped the back of Happy's hand playfully. "I wasn't sure you were ready to see the three of us naked." Nichelle covered her mouth and laughed. “And here I thought only Dante and I were the freaks. Go ‘head, Hap.” She gave her friend a high-five. “At least one of us is getting what she wants." Happy's smile faded. “Not exactly." Soon Nichelle's smile melted. “What do you mean?" "The boys are not down for a threesome or any other relationship where I'm split between the two. It's not fair. I bet if Zeke had the two of us, he wouldn't expect us to give him an ultimatum." 44

45 "Because guys are territorial." Happy's eyes got wide. “That's what Zeke said!" "Men are boys. Remember that.” Nichelle didn't want to admit that to herself but how else could she explain Dante's attitude? "So what happened with you?” Happy asked then sipped her beer. Nichelle had been replaying the whole event over and over in her head ever since it happened. She wanted to erase it but couldn't. "I told him what task number three was.” Nichelle shook her head as she recounted the moment. “I wanted him to say those three little words to me and not say it like I'm his buddy but the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with." "Don't tell me. Let me guess. He made a joke out of it and probably said something like ‘I want beer’ or ‘Me like sex’ or something retarded like that." "You know our friend.” The sad part was that Nichelle thought she knew him too. She thought that he would want to say he loved her and make a real commitment. They had made love so many times over the last few years that she thought for him to make a real commitment to her would have been easy. The funny part about it was that what he had for their second task, to both toast with champagne would have been perfect right after he made the declaration she thought he would make. No use of hoping for her last task, to have one happy union. "Hap, once he realized I was serious, he acted like he didn't know what to say or do. He fumbled his words. He kept pacing the floor.” Tears welled in her eyes. “He wouldn't even look at me." Happy put her hand on top of Nichelle's. “I know you're hurting, girl. I know this is rough." "I just told him never mind about what I said and I got dressed and left him.” A small cry escaped her mouth. “He didn't even stop me." Happy slid out of her booth bench and came over to sit next to Nichelle. “Hey, come on. It's okay. You'll be okay." "No, I won't. I am so ready to start a life. I want a home and a family. But I don't want it with just anyone, Happy. I want it with Dante. I love him so much it hurts. I'm hurting." "I know. Believe me. I know." 45

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Nichelle wiped her eyes with the restaurant's white cloth napkin. “So tell me what's up with our boys, Zeke and Lennon." "Oh what can I tell you?” Happy moved back to her side of the table. "For one, are they any good?” Nichelle raised her eyebrows. Happy looked coy for a moment before admitting, “They are both wonderful.” She drew out the word wonderful like she was having an orgasm. “Lennon is just so willing to please. And he's not bad down below either." "Really?" Happy nodded. “And Zeke, my God, he's packing and he goes downtown." "No way!" Happy nodded. "Did you—" "What?" Nichelle paused before finally asking, “At the same time?" Happy cocked a smile. “My first time doing that. It was great." "Really?" Happy nodded. “I would have thought they would have wanted to keep up the relationship. Zeke said I was his girl and he wouldn't share. Lennon, I think, would have been down for the threesome action if Zeke hadn't said anything." Nichelle ran her finger down the side of her glass, removing traces of condensation. “So what are we going to do?" "There's still a parade to enjoy. You want to head out and watch it with me?” Happy called for the check. "I'm talking about our personal lives.” How would Nichelle expect to look Dante in the eyes again? What would happen to the two of them? "I know. But for now, can we just have some fun?" 46

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Nichelle nodded. She would need to have some fun before confronting Dante again ... to tell him goodbye.

Chapter 7 "I didn't know what to do.” Dante sat on one of the beds in the room he and Nichelle shared while Zeke sat on the other and Lennon sat on the chair at the desk. Dante's heart swelled knowing that no matter what went down in his life, his boys always had his back. "We knew it was coming. We saw the list. I just would have thought you two would have had a better outcome.” Zeke rested his elbows on his knees and clasped his baseball mitt-sized hands together. "You could have warned me.” Dante crossed his legs at his ankles and leaned his head back. “I was expecting something like three minutes of oral sex or a three-finger finger fuck session. I wasn't expected the three she wanted would be those three little words." "No offense, Dante, but Nichelle is a great woman,” Lennon said. “Smart, funny, beautiful." "You don't have to tell me that. I know.” Dante has had the pleasure of being with that exquisite beauty for the last six years. "If you know all of that, why would you let that woman go? She wants to make a commitment with you and you don't know what to do? I'd tell you what I would do. I'd—" "Shut the fuck up, Len,” Zeke spat. “You wouldn't do shit." "The hell I wouldn't. It's not often you find true love.” Lennon bolted to his feet. "No, it's not.” Zeke stared at Lennon. The way the two men looked at each other, it was as though they were sharing a conversation only spoken with their eyes. "Shit!” Lennon turned his back on the two men and went to the window. "What's going on between the two of you?” Dante asked. 47

48 "Nothing. It's nothing. We're here for you so let's get down to your problems.” Zeke returned his attention back to Dante and let Lennon deal with his problems by staring out of the window. "So what did Nic say about your new job?” Zeke leaned back on the bed, resting on his elbows. "She went crazy. She was angry that I didn't tell her when I found out a few weeks ago.” Dante still remembered the hurt look in her eyes when he told her about his new job in Miami and how desperate he wanted to get away from Virginia. Maybe she took that to mean he was desperate to get away from her. He wasn't. "Why didn't you tell her when you found out?” Zeke sucked on his teeth. "I wanted it to be a surprise for today. I thought she would be happy for me." "And in your plans, did it include her?” Lennon broke his gaze from whatever had distracted him outside to address Dante. "Well, no. I didn't think she would want to move.” Actually he didn't think to ask her. Going to Nichelle's apartment once or twice a week was one thing. Having her move in with him away from her friends and family was something else. He didn't know if he could handle that type of relationship. She would be with him all the time. As his gaze fell on her suitcase, one of her pink negligees poking out from the side, he couldn't imagine being without her. "No, you didn't think you wanted her to be with you twenty-four/seven,” Zeke said as though he had read Dante's thoughts. "Shit, man, I fucked up. She's God knows where with Happy calling me everything but the child of God.” Dante jumped off the bed and started pacing again. "I'm sure Nichelle wanted to tell you this herself but I'll let you in on a secret.” For dramatic effect, Zeke cleared his throat first. “Her last thing on her list said she wanted one happy union." The admission stopped Dante in his tracks. “Really?" Zeke nodded. So Nichelle truly wanted to build a life with him. What was wrong with him? Lennon was right. Here he had the perfect woman in front of him and he was tossing her aside for a job. He should have told her about the job. He should have asked her to come with him. He should have dropped down on one knee and proposed to her. The woman completed him in every facet of his life. How in the world could he let her go? 48

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"I don't know how to get her back. What do I do to get her back?” Dante slipped on his socks and shoes. "For one, you can call her, find out where she is.” Zeke tossed Dante his cell phone. Dante punched in his speed dial for Nichelle but she never answered it. It went straight to her voicemail. "She really must be pissed at me. She's not answering.” Dante slipped on his coat. "Call Happy.” Lennon sat on the bed next to Zeke and had an expectant look in his eyes. "Good idea.” Zeke nodded. “Happy left out of here with her so you know they're together." Dante punched in Happy's speed dial number and waited. No answer from her either. "Either they're ignoring me or—" Lennon cut him off. “Or they can't hear their phones. Like in a noisy bar.” He thought for a while and his eyes widened. “Or at the parade." "Come on, guys. I got to get my girl.” Dante turned to the door until Zeke's vise-like grip around his wrist stopped him. "Just so long as you're going after her for the right reasons.” Zeke rose from the bed and towered over Dante. “Don't fuck with her head, man. She really digs you." "And you don't think I love her too?” Dante snatched his arm out of Zeke's grip. "Dog, don't bother telling me that. Say it to her or risk losing her as a friend all together." Losing Nichelle was what he was afraid of. Who knew that a sexy little game would turn into something so serious? Who was he kidding? Starting from the kiss behind the stands, nothing had been simple. He wanted her just like he wanted her now. Dante was too afraid to admit it in case she rejected him. Seeing her crying as she ran out of their hotel room crushed him. He didn't want to hurt her again. "You guys going to help me or not?” Dante stared at his friends. "Of course.” Lennon stepped forward. Zeke looked at the two of them before moving forward as well. “You know I'm down for whatever." 49

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"Then let's go before I lose her.” He just hoped he hadn't lost her.

Chapter 8 Nichelle and Happy bundled together as they stood on the curb next to the booth where the TV personalities sat. She hoped the cold would numb her senses. Unfortunately the wintry weather chilled her to her bones. Her teeth chattered as she hopped from one foot to the other. Happy squeezed Nichelle's arm and did the same dance to keep herself warm. "Why the hell do we do this every year?” Happy asked under the scarf that wrapped around her mouth and chin. "Tradition.” Nichelle glanced at her friend. It wasn't until she stared at her for a bit that she noticed she was wearing Lennon's trademark scarf. Nichelle's gaze went down. Yellow gloves covered Happy's hands. Happy brought her hand up and pulled her scarf down from her mouth. “It smells like him." Nichelle nodded. "If his coat wasn't so much like a tent, I would have worn Zeke's coat, too." Nichelle laughed. She reached her hand into her front pocket. Sharp corners of the photo booth picture with her and Dante poked her finger when she touched it. Good. She still had Dante with her too. "So what are we going to do after this?” Happy secured Lennon's scarf around her neck. “I left all of my shit in the room so we need to go back there." "I know. We will. I wasn't going to avoid him.” There went her plans to drive back to her apartment. Another thought hit her. Before Nichelle could mention her back-up plan, Happy quickly said, “And I'm not switching rooms to bunk with you either. I'm hoping for some goodbye sex from the guys. If I were you, I would be hoping for the same from Dante." Nichelle had hoped for much more than just sex. She'd had just sex with him for years. Time to grow up. Time to change. As much as it hurt her heart, if Dante wasn't willing to change with 50

51 her, then she would have to move on. A blaring whistle broke her thoughts. Peering down the street, she saw her old high school marching band coming down the street. Happy clapped at the teenagers playing a sorry rendition of “Louie, Louie." Nichelle peered over her shoulder behind the announce booth. Had it only been a few years ago that she and Dante made their way behind it to kiss? Had Zeke not stumble onto them, they would have done a lot more. Her nipples hardened just thinking about the possibilities. "The band sounded great, didn't they?” Happy asked, shouting over the music and the cheering crowd. "Yeah, sure.” Nichelle stared blankly down the street, not focusing on anything. "Why don't you try to call him? Maybe you two can go back to the room and talk." Nichelle brought her attention back down to Happy. “I'm not leaving you. Besides, I'm fine. I'll be okay.” She huddled in closer to Happy. “Come on. This is our tradition. Let's have a good time." Happy pulled Nichelle down and said in her ear, “Not the same without the guys." Damn Happy and Dante for being right all of the time. Despite feeling let down, Nichelle smiled. “Maybe some traditions were meant to be broken." Happy shook her head. Damn Happy for being right all of the time. **** "Dude, the streets are lined for miles around with people. How in the world do you plan on finding her?” Lennon asked as he trailed behind big Zeke and Dante. Poor Lennon. His normally pale skin looked even more ghostly and he kept blowing into his hands. "Are you sure none of you saw my scarf and gloves?” he asked again. Dante shrugged his shoulders. “Nope. Didn't see them. But let's just look for one thing at a time. First Nichelle and Happy then your scarf and gloves." "It's freezing out here.” Lennon hoped around. "You want to wear my coat?” Zeke asked. 51

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"Can I?” Lennon reached for Zeke's coat and got his hand smacked in the process. "Are you kidding me? I was joking about letting you wear it. You can't have everything I want." "I don't. I just want what's owed to me.” Lennon jutted out his chin. "Owed? What do I or anyone else owe you?" Lennon thought for a while as the three of them weaved their way through the crowds. “If it wasn't for me, you would have flunked out of chemistry." "You're still holding that over me? Brother, get real." "You two knock it off. If you aren't going to help me then just do what you want to do and let me go on by myself.” Dante scanned the crowd. No way could he miss his beautiful Nichelle. "My scarf,” Lennon exclaimed. "Len, I said we would look for it after we find the girls.” Dante hung at the end of his rope with Lennon and his damn scarf. If he heard him mention it again, he would let Zeke do whatever he wanted to do to Lennon. "No, I found it." "Where?” Not that Dante cared. "Around Happy's neck. And Nichelle is standing next to her.” Lennon pointed across the street. Down from where they stood on the corner were Happy and Nichelle. They stood by the announcers’ booth and were illuminated by the floodlights and camera lights at the stand. Even from far away, Nichelle looked gorgeous. "I'm going to get my scarf.” Lennon charged into the street but Dante stopped him. "Let me get to Nichelle first then you two can do whatever you want to do." Lennon screwed up his face as though he wasn't fully into Dante's plan. "Please?” Dante begged. Lennon rolled his eyes. “Fine. Just hurry up. I'm freezing." 52

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Dante smiled and patted his friend on his shoulder. Behind his old high school marching band and before the police on horseback trotted through, Dante ran across the street. He figured out a way to cut through the crowd, get behind the stand to get to Nichelle. He just had to get her attention. One last ditch effort. Dante pulled out his cell phone from his jean pocket. He called Nichelle again just as he got across the street. Moving his way through the crowd, he managed to get next to the stand on the opposite side of Nichelle. He watched her fumbling with something in her pocket before he ducked back behind the booth. Please, God, let her be answering his call. **** "It's Dante,” Nichelle said as she held up her phone. "I told you to put it on vibrate for the next time he called.” Happy's pink cheeks lit up. Nichelle would have liked to think it was for her but deep down she knew Happy suspected Zeke and Lennon weren't too far behind. "He should have left me a message before.” Nichelle opened her phone to accept the call. "And you should have called him back." Nichelle turned her back on her perceptive friend. "Hello.” Nichelle covered her free ear to concentrate on Dante. She heard his voice but with the band playing and the crowds talking, she couldn't hear what he said. “Dante, I can't hear you. I'm at the parade.” Nichelle scanned her immediate area. As soon as her gaze fell on the darkened area behind the announcers booth, she headed that way. “Hold on. I'm going to a quiet spot." Nichelle ran to that area, holding her phone to her ear. As soon as she got behind the tall shack, arms wrapped around her waist and pulled her into a passionate kiss. In the dark, she couldn't tell who grabbed her. The kiss seemed familiar, like Dante's but much more desperate with his tongue darting into her mouth and hands fumbling over every part of her body, over her breasts, down her stomach to her backside and between her legs. With one swift stomp, she crushed her assailant's instep. When he broke from her, she followed with another kick to his kneecap. He buckled to the ground. "That'll teach you to attack a woman,” Nichelle said. Just as she punched in the numbers for nine-one-one she heard something that startled her. "Nichelle, did I piss you off that bad?" 53

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Her heart raced as she crouched down next to Dante. Her eyes began to focus in the darkened area and she could now make out his dark, full eyebrows and his strong jaw line. "Why didn't you tell me it was you?” She cradled his head in her lap. “You need help. I have to call you an ambulance." "Wait, not until I do one thing.” He struggled to sit up. "No, don't move.” She tried to stay him in his position by putting her hand over his chest. "Nope. Not moving was what got me in trouble in the first place." Nichelle's heart raced with Dante's impending admission. As soon as he was sitting up enough to face her, he said, “With all of my heart and soul and being, I love you so much Nichelle. I was a fool to think that I could move on with my life and that we could still meet at least once a year to play this stupid game. The fact of the matter is that I'm my most happiest when I'm with you. I love coming over to your place and we just snuggle on the couch and watch rented DVDs." Nichelled loved that too. Her body warmed even though the frigid ground they sat on sent a shiver up her spine. She stroked his hair as he spoke, her heart filling with so much love that tears welled in her eyes. "If the choice is to stay doing P.R. for this minor league team to be with you or go off to work in Miami to be with the Heat, hands down, I want to be with you. I will give up that job in the morning and beg for my other job back. For you, I would do anything." He put his hand to the back of her head and brought her face down to his. With a kiss she recognized, Dante pressed his lips against hers in a soft, gentle manner. She smoothed her fingers over his cheek, now full of stubbly hairs. What a difference a day made. "Now I need for you to do one thing for me,” Dante said when they broke from the kiss. Before he could make his suggestion, Nichelle cut him off. “I know what you're going to say. No, I can't move to Miami with you. I have a shot at getting a great engineering job in Norfolk and that's important to me, too. It just seems like we are going in two different directions and maybe we should stay that way." Dante coughed. “I was going to ask that you call some help over because you really hurt me. But I guess we have a lot more to talk about." Indeed they did. 54

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**** Happy decided to stare Zeke and Lennon down as they approached her. No way would she back down from them. She gave them a choice and they blinked. Since they can't handle her or the relationship she wanted, they could just kiss her ass. Lennon got to her first. He grabbed the tail ends of his scarf that she wore around her neck. Uncharacteristically of Lennon, he pulled her in close and gave her a passionate kiss. His tongue slid into her mouth and she loved having it there. For a brief moment, she closed her eyes and accepted the gesture. Some reason, it didn't feel right. When Lennon pulled back, Happy gazed at him and Zeke. Lennon let the scarf go and stepped aside without a word. Unexpectedly, Zeke stepped in, wrapped his tree limb of an arm around her tiny waist, and pulled her in close. He gave her a kiss that buckled her knees. The combination of the two kisses brought tears to her eyes. She didn't give a shit about what the people around her thought, that first she had kissed a white man and now she was kissing an African-American man. They were men and she loved them both. As soon as Zeke pulled back and Happy could regain her senses, she asked, “What changed?" "We did,” Lennon replied over the noise. "We decided that we like the new arrangement.” Zeke smiled. “And we love you more." "Are you serious?” Happy wanted to be sure that this was something they both wanted. In unison, they nodded. Her heart drummed as much and as fast as the marching band drummers. "Let's get back to the room.” Happy grabbed Zeke and Lennon's hands and started to cross the street to get back to their hotel when she caught a frantic Nichelle from the corner of her eye. Nichelle called the group over to her. When they rounded the corner behind the announcers’ booth, they found Dante in a heap on the ground. "Hi, guys.” He waved. "What the hell did you do to him?” Happy asked. Lennon and Zeke quickly scooped Dante off the ground. Dante sucked air between his gritted teeth but never complained. "I thought he was attacking me and I kicked him.” She helped him wrap his arms around his friends’ shoulders, one around Lennon and the other around Zeke. 55

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"You're losing your touch, man,” Zeke joked. "Was it that obvious?” Dante hobbled in between his two friends. Happy leaned over to Nichelle as they walked behind the three men. “You're interrupting my flow." "Glad one of us got some resolution.” Nichelle shook her head. Until her best friend could have what she wanted, Happy couldn't be ... happy.

Chapter 9 Nichelle paced outside of Dante's hospital room, trying to steel her nerves to go inside. She'd hurt him, physically and emotionally. How could she unleash like that on him, telling him what she would and wouldn't do? She had to be real with herself. Did she love him enough to be willing to give up everything ... like he had offered to her? Happy bounded down the hallway, a smile as long as the eastern shoreline. "So have you talked to him yet?” Happy bounced from one foot to the other. "Not yet. Figured I would let his drugs kick in before I went in there.” Nichelle smiled but it still couldn't match Happy's. “You're more cheerful than normal. What's up with you?” As soon as she asked the question, Nichelle noticed right away that Happy's sweater was on inside out. Nichelle smirked. “At the hospital, girl? Have you got no shame?" "Nope.” Happy giggled. “And the great thing about having two of them, one can be used as a lookout for the two of us. They just took turns." Nichelle lifted her hand. “Stop. I don't need to hear anything else." "Good. I'm about to go for round two in an empty hospital room. Wish me luck." Happy bounded away before the well wishes could come. Nichelle took a deep breath before entering Dante's room. She walked past the patient he shared his room with, a man with a cast around his left arm and his midsection bound with heavy bandages. As soon as she saw Dante in his hip-to-toe cast on his left leg, Nichelle gasped. She didn't think she'd hurt him that badly. 56

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Dante fluttered his eyes open when she made her sharp intake of breath. He smiled at her and tried moving himself up on the bed. "Don't move.” Nichelle rushed to him and held his shoulders. “I don't want you to hurt yourself any more than you already are." "You mean any more than you already have hurt me?" Nichelle's face froze. "Come on.” Dante patted his bed next to him. “Come sit down." After a beat, Nichelle sat down next to him. “I'm sorry." Dante held his hand up to quiet her. “Let me do some of the talking for once.” He smirked. “You laid down an ultimatum on me and I freaked. I'll admit it. I panicked. When I got offered the job I never thought to tell you about it because that would mean that I was serious about you and wanted to make a real life with you. I hadn't matured yet in my mind." Nichelle swallowed and held Dante's hand. "Then I saw how hurt you looked when you asked me to do the one thing I have been wanting to scream at the top of my lungs anyway. I do love you, Nichelle. Like I said, I'm more than willing to give up the job and the new life for you. You know me. I've never been the guy that took things too seriously. Maybe if six years ago I had been honest with Zeke and just said, ‘Yeah, we were making out. I'm really attracted to Nichelle’ then maybe we wouldn't be so screwed up today, hiding out from our friends and each other." Nichelle opened her mouth to speak but Dante barreled through. "I know you must think that when I didn't say what you wanted me to say back at the hotel room that you wrote me off as a loser." She shook her head. Dante squeezed her hand. "And you would be right. What man lets you get away from him? Just know that I do love you. I made a mistake by not telling you before but I'm not making that mistake again." "Will you just shut up, please?” Nichelle wiped her eyes before any more tears could be shed. "First you cracked my kneecap and now you're telling me to shut up. I like it rough like the next guy but you take the cake.” He snickered. 57

58 Mid snicker, Nichelle kissed him. That quieted him down. "I'm such an idiot. Here I am forcing your hand, making you take risks and I won't do the same for you. This is what I should have told you in the hotel. I love you, Dante.” She crushed his hand against her chest. “You're not the only one here who has to step out of his comfort zone. Here I was trying to make you be more mature and you are. You got your career going. You've made plans to start a life including getting a home. Meanwhile I'm the one who hasn't pursued that dream engineering job because that would mean I now responsible." "You are responsible." Nichelle shook her head. “Not where it counts. I don't want you to give up your new job. You've more than earned it and you've worked hard to get it." "Nic, I don't want to leave you.” He wriggled his hand free of hers and cupped her cheek. "You won't be. I'm coming with you.” Nichelle smiled as soon as Dante's smile broke through his somber countenance. "Are you kidding me?" Nichelle shook her head. “I want so much to start my life and be with you. What better way than to start fresh. That is, if you'll still have me." Dante let out an exaggerated sigh and turned away. “I don't know. You crushed me when you said you wouldn't go off with me. I don't know if I can recover." Nichelle smiled. She stood and sauntered to the curtain that separated Dante from the other patient. She slid the pale green curtain close, hissing it along its track. Then she strolled to the other side of Dante's bed, away from his bandaged leg. "And what are you doing?” he asked. "Begging for forgiveness." Before sitting on his bed, Nichelle pulled his white, industrialized sheet and blanket off Dante's body. Even under his thin hospital gown she saw his cock rising to the occasion. When she grabbed the hem of his gown, he held her wrist "What if a nurse comes in to check on me?” he asked in a whisper. "Then you'll have to look out for me, huh?” Nichelle wriggled her wrist from his grip. "What about...” Dante nodded his head toward where the other patient lay. 58

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"I guess you're going to have to be quiet.” She folded the hem of his gown up, revealing his impressive cock. If she didn't worry about hurting his leg again, she would have stripped and straddled him. Instead she wrapped her fingers around the base, making Dante suck in air and grip the sheets. She stroked him, slow at first, enjoying the feeling of him pulsating in her hand. As soon as his hips began gyrating back and forth, Nichelle went faster, being sure to squeeze his tip each time her hand got to the top. "Oh shit,” Dante said between gritted teeth. Nichelle leaned over and kissed him, sliding her tongue into his mouth. She loved this man. If it wasn't obvious right now, she would make it apparent when they made their lives together in Florida. When she pulled back, she noticed how wild Dante's eyes looked. He was close. She pumped her hand faster. "I love you, baby,” Nichelle said. “When you're released, I'll take you to my place and take care of you." "Would I get this every day?” he asked in a staggered breath. "Depends on if I'm feeling handy or mouthy.” She winked. Her hand motions and her statement were enough to send Dante into a tailspin. "Fuck!” he said out loud, careless if his neighbor heard him. Nichelle felt his balls tighten just as his warm jism squirted over her hand and his stomach. She slowed down her piston-like movement then kissed him again. "Now, time for your sponge bath.” Nichelle flitted her eyebrows. Before she could get off the bed, Dante held her hand. Looking deep into her eyes, he said, “The last thing on your list, the one happy union, I want that too." She grinned so hard her face hurt. “To challenges, goals and happy endings,” she began, stealing his toast from the beginning of their day, “May we all find a little piece of happiness at the end of the day." "Here, here.” Dante pulled her down to kiss her until he heard a voice in the room. 59

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"Dude, when you're done with that nurse can you send her over here?” the other patient said. Dante laughed. “No, man.” He stared into Nichelle's warm, brown eyes. “This one is all mine." And Dante did have Nichelle, mind, body, and soul.

About the Author: Bridget Midway writes what you all fantasize about ... but won't admit! This award-winning author enjoys making her readers fan themselves down after a hot, sexy scene as much as she enjoys making them laugh and sigh. Bridget writes erotica, erotic romances, futuristic romances, and humorous contemporary stories, all with multicultural characters and/or interracial romances. For more information about this author, check out her website at www.BridgetMidway.com. Or if you want to read what's going on in her head, read her blog at bridgetmidway.blogspot.com/ Echelon Press www.echelonpress.com Copyright ©2006 by Erotique Press Publishing First published in 2006, 2006 Foolish Games By Bridget Midway Erotiqué Press Contemporary Romance Erotiqué Press 9735 Country Meadows Lane 1-D Laurel, MD 20723 Copyright © 2006 by B. Midway ISBN: 1-59080-972-6 E-book www.erotiquepress.com

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