tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78631135252974862672023-08-16T23:57:11.921-04:00Southern BelleCatte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125truetag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-44195000266797321412012-07-27T21:00:00.000-04:002012-07-27T21:00:06.172-04:00Chapter 33<br />
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The low rumble of an engine made Annie look up. Her lips curved into a smile as she ducked
her head to peer out the open window, the creamy lace curtains stirring with
the light cross-breeze. She watched the
wide rusty-blue car roll slowly up the long drive, gravel crunching beneath its
tires.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie chuckled at the brown elbow and forearm protruding
from the driver’s side window. It was
all she could see of Richie, his silhouette obscured by the glint of descending
sun off the Impala’s winshield. But just
that little glimpse of tanned skin made her stomach flutter.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Still smiling, Annie straightened and returned her
attention to her task. Her gaze dropped
back to the gray t-shirt flattened against the quilt covering her bed. Her hands gently smoothed away the little
wrinkles in the worn fabric before folding it into thirds, then into thirds
again. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie deftly flipped the perfectly-folded tee over and
smoothed it once more before placing it neatly on the pile with the rest of Richie’s
clothes. She heard the engine stop
abruptly, followed by the crunch of footsteps on the gravel drive and the loud
metallic <i>thump </i>of a closing car
door. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Humming softly, Annie moved toward the bedroom door. She had hardly stepped out into the short
hallway when she heard the screen door rattle open.</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Annie?”</div>
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<br /></div>
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Richie’s sweaty face split into a grin when she rounded
the corner. He raised a hand to rake
through his stringy, windblown hair, pushing it back from his forehead. “Hey.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, Hey yourself.”
Annie chuckled and padded barefoot across the rug to him. She placed a palm gently against his dampened
t-shirt and leaned up to give him a little smooch. “I was beginnin’ to think you got yourself
lost.”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Uh… I kinda did.”
Richie gave her a sheepish shrug.
“Just one wrong turn, though. I
figured it out.”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Well, I guess you have an excuse. After all, it <i>is </i>your first time drivin’ out here to the house.”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Yeah.” Richie
grinned down at Annie. She looked
adorable, her blue eyes sparkling and her lightly-freckled nose wrinkling with her gentle tease.</div>
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<br /></div>
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“So, you still gonna take me out to the carnival
tonight?” Annie’s golden curls bounced
lightly as she stepped back and crossed her arms over her chest. She tipped her head to one side, giving him a
quizzical look.</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Hell yeah! I
mean… if you still want me to.”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Oh, I do. I <i>love</i> the carnival. Best week of the summer.” Annie nodded emphatically. “Money goes to a good cause, too. Helpin’ people with medical bills, orphans
and foster kids, the volunteer fire department…”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well then sure, we <i>have</i>
to go.” Richie smiled his
agreement. “Um… what time does it
start? I gotta grab a shower first. I’m all sweaty and greasy. Helped Eddie rebuild a trannie on some guy’s
pickup truck.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I know. Lance
came into the restaurant for lunch.”
Annie giggled softly and gave Richie a little wink. “I told him not to worry, you knew what you
were doin’. Plus Eddie was lookin’ over
your shoulder.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Great.
Thanks.” Richie rolled his eyes
playfully. “Anyway… what time you wanna
go? Pretty soon?”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Whenever you want.
The carnival opened today at noon, but it don’t really get rollin’ on
the first day ‘til folks get off work. We
got plenty of time.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie nodded and stepped toward the corner where his
guitar case sat propped against Annie’s stereo console. “Okay.
You wanna eat there too? Or maybe
get a burger on the way or somethin'?” His
expression turned to a puzzled frown when he realized his army-surplus duffel
was no longer in the spot it had occupied all weekend, slumped on Annie’s
living room rug next to her stereo. </div>
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<br /></div>
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“Oh, we wanna eat <i>there</i>, for sure.” Annie giggled at
Richie’s obvious confusion, but continued her answer. “All the Brunswick churches and the civic
clubs and the PTA all run food booths.
There’s all <i>kinds</i> of good
cookin’ for sale at the carnival. The
Rotary does fried catfish… Mmm-<i>MMM.</i>” She hummed her approval. “And of course there’s funnel cakes and
cotton candy…”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Umm… okay.”
Richie turned to look around the room, distracted from Annie’s culinary
rundown by his visual search for his duffel.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Annie giggled.
“Richie, it’s in the bedroom.”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“My bag?”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Uh huh. I took
the last of yesterday’s wash off the line and folded it up. I was gonna put it back in your bag, but I
saw you had other stuff in there. I wasn’t
gonna put clean clothes in there until you can get that other dirty ol' stuff out. And I didn’t wanna snoop, so…”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Oh. S’Okay.” Richie felt a little pang of anxiety at the
thought of Annie going through his bag.
He didn’t have anything to hide, exactly. But he would be a little embarrassed if she
saw the pathetic balance in the checkbook register buried at the bottom of the
duffel. “Um… thanks for folding my clothes. You didn’t have to do that.”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Yes I did.” Annie
chuckled teasingly. “You woulda just
wadded up those clean shirts and jeans and stuffed ‘em back into that ol’
bag. You’re a <i>guy.</i>”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Well, yeah.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie rolled her eyes and shook her head, still
grinning. “Well, anyway… your clean
clothes are on my bed. Now why don’t you
go get yourself cleaned up, too?”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie chortled softly, taking a step over to where Annie
stood. He dropped his head, smiling down
at her. “They got rides at this carnival
too?”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“ ‘Course.” A
tingle ran down Annie’s spine at the look in Richie’s deep chocolate eyes. “Why?”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“ ‘Cause.” Richie grinned playfully, then lowered his
lips to hover over hers. “I kinda like the idea of you holdin’ on to me while
we spin around real fast.” </div>
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<br /></div>
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Annie smirked coyly. “Maybe
<i>you’ll</i> be the one holdin’ on to <i>me</i>.”
She tipped her head upward, her lips making contact with his. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Richie chuckled against her sweet kiss. “If you want me to.”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Well, we’ll see how the evenin' goes.” Annie pulled her face back to give Richie a
grin, then pushed at his chest. “Now <i>go</i>.
Get in the shower. I’m hungry.”</div>
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<br /></div>
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“ ‘Kay.” Richie
nodded and shuffled toward the little hallway, Annie stepping aside to make
room for him to pass. “Now that you
mention it, I’m starving too.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Why doesn’t that surprise me?” Annie laughed her
reply. Richie had proven over the past
few days that, despite his rail-thin build, he could put away some food.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie didn’t answer, just smiling to himself as he
wandered past the bathroom door and into Annie’s bedroom. He stopped just inside the door, his gaze
falling to the quilt-covered bed. <br />
<br />
As
Annie had said, his clean shirts and jeans were folded and neatly stacked. A small pile of rolled off-white tube socks
lay beside them. Next to the socks a
half-dozen pairs of semi-dingy briefs were folded into uneven rectangles. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s cheeks colored lightly at the thought of Annie
folding his underwear. Some things he
just didn’t want to consider.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
His eyes dropped from his freshly-done laundry to the
floor, looking for his duffel bag. When
he didn’t see it next to the bed, Richie frowned. He moved further into the bedroom, around the
bed, scanning the floor for the canvas container that held all his belongings. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A quick duck of his head to look under Annie’s bed proved
fruitless. Straightening up and raising
a hand to scratch unconsciously at his head, Richie turned back toward the
door.</div>
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<br /></div>
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“Annie? Where’s my
ruck?”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Her reply floated down the hall from the opposite end of
the little house. “I put it in the
closet!”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh. <i>Duh</i>.” Richie mumbled to himself as he stepped over
to the narrow door in the corner of Annie’s bedroom. He turned the knob and tugged hard, forcing
the humidity-swollen wood to release from the door frame. His eyes dropped automatically to the floor
of the tiny space.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie leaned down to pick up the nearly-empty olive-drab
bag, hauling it up by one frayed strap.
As he straightened the back of his hand brushed against the garments
hanging from the bar that spanned the narrow closet. He smiled as he recognized the green dress
Annie had worn to church the day before. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Reaching out, Richie gently traced his fingers over the
soft cotton. His smile gentled as he recalled how pretty and feminine she
looked, gliding around the church in her summer dress and her prim heels. And how angelic she had looked in her snowy
white choir robe, her cheeks glowing and her hair shining like a golden halo. </div>
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<br /></div>
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And how incredibly sexy she had looked on her knees,
genuflecting before him on the front porch in a most unexpected and welcome erotic
surprise.</div>
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<br /></div>
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A little shudder ran down Richie’s spine at the vivid
memory, culminating in a powerful surge to his groin. The corners of his mouth curved into a
secretive grin and he gave his head a brisk shake, as if to clear away the image. If he got all turned on now he was going to have
to spend extra time in the shower and make Annie wait even longer to go to her
carnival.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie gave the green cotton one last stroke, then let it
go. He tugged his rucksack out of the closet,
tossing it onto the floor next to the bed.
As he turned to close the closet door something else caught Richie’s attention,
making him pause.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Hanging on the bar next to Annie’s green church dress was
his white shirt. It was clean and crisp,
neatly ironed. The thin black tie that
had belonged to Annie’s grandfather curved loosely around the neck, ready to be
knotted under the starched collar.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
It was ready for him to wear again, the next time he
accompanied Annie to church.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie stood motionless, staring at the garment as
a flood of emotions swept over him.
Yesterday he had been so certain that next Sunday he would be sitting in
the wooden pew at the back of the church, watching her sing in the choir. He had received a sign from the Heavens or
from fate or from wherever, that this is where his future lay, here in Darien
with Annie.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
And then, like a bolt from the blue, it had
returned. His music. His soul had been awakened, and even the
delightful temptation of a full night of naked passion with Annabelle had been unable to keep him from the music. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
She was his Muse.
She had drawn him in, ensnared his heart, inspired his soul. And now here he stood, staring at the product of her mundane house-chore that so poignantly symbolized the choice he had to make.<br />
<br />
Annie had made room in her life for him. He could stay here with her and live a quiet, simple life in this close-knit little community that had welcomed and sheltered him. They would have each other; they would grow closer over time. He would get a job; she would keep working. Eventually they'd save enough money for her to go to nursing school and maybe buy a bigger house. Richie could even buy another guitar; maybe a Gibson like the one he had pawned back in Tupelo. They could get married and raise their children in this peaceful, unpretentious place, and drive back up to Jersey a couple times a year to visit the ghosts of Richie's past life and let his parents spoil their Grandkids.<br />
<br />
And every now and again on a Saturday night he could break out his guitar and sit in with the band at Ruby Mae's. Just to remember what it was like.<br />
<br /></div>
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Richie's gaze dropped to the floor, to the rumpled heap of olive-drab canvas that lay beside his boot. <br />
<br />
Or he could pack up his belongings, the worn, faded clothes Annie
had so thoughtfully cleaned and folded, and his battered old guitar case, and he
could drive back to the only life he had ever known. He could spend his days toiling in a factory
and his nights in musty clubs down the Shore, drinking and smoking with his
buddies and singing and playing with any band who would have him until his
voice was a raspy croak and his fingers bled… And he would love every minute of it.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Except it would be without Her.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Slowly, Richie pushed the closet door closed. He stared at the doorknob for a moment before
turning away. With a sigh he reached
down to pick up his ruck, dragging it around the end of the bed before slinging
it onto the rocking chair next to the window.
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Silently he rooted around in the canvas bag until he
found his shaving kit. Then he turned
and shuffled down the hall, eager for the cool rain of the shower to wash away
the grime of his day’s labors and to refresh his suddenly melancholy mood.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
***** </div>
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“Go up another block and turn left. You’ll see the grade school on the left.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie slowed the Impala and guided it toward the curb of
the tree-lined street, making way for an oncoming truck to drift past. He peered ahead at the line of vehicles inching
slowly down the brick path.</div>
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<br /></div>
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“What’s with all the traffic?”</div>
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<br /></div>
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Annie giggled and poked him playfully in the ribs. “It’s the carnival! I told you, it’s the
highlight of the summer! For the whole <i>county,</i> not just for town.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie cringed at her tickle, then grinned. His arm tightened around her shoulder, giving
her a little hug. Annie purred softly,
snuggling closer against his side on the Impala’s wide bench seat.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie tilted his head to the left, trying to look around
the big 4 x 4 pickup truck blocking his view down the street. “Shit, it may be dark before we even get to
the parking lot.” </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
His observation was part tease, part exasperated
vent. Richie squirmed uncomfortably in
his seat, trying unsuccessfully to adjust himself without grabbing his
crotch. Annie had sat close beside him
for the entire twenty-minute drive from Darien, and they had been inching
through Brunswick for another ten minutes.
Her scent, her voice, and the warmth of her skin had been driving him
slowly crazy the entire while.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I think we’ll be fine.
Sun sets late in the summertime.”
Annie gave Richie a little sideways smirk and slipped her hand along the
inside of his denim-covered thigh. “The
biggest danger is we’ll starve to death ‘fore we get outta this traffic jam.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie chuckled huskily and squirmed again. “You really do wanna eat, don’t you?”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Uh huh. Best part
of the carnival.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“So I’ve heard.”
Richie gave Annie another squeeze and turned his head to smile at
her. Annie responded by leaning up to
give him a light kiss.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Just as her lips slipped from his the truck ahead of them
began to move. “Finally!” Richie
exclaimed. “About fuckin’ time!” He jerked the lever to throw the Impala’s
transmission back into “Drive” and let the big car roll forward.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie giggled. “So
you ain’t one for patience, then.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Not really.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Hmm. Yep, definitely a Yankee.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie shot her a sideways grin. “And damned proud of it.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
It took them another five minutes to travel the block and
a half to the elementary school. Annie
kept up her commentary about the festival’s food selections in between gently
teasing Richie about his impatience and inching her hand higher up the inseam
of his jeans. By the time he finally
pulled the Impala into a space in the school parking lot Richie was both horny <i>and </i>hungry. It was obvious which one of those conditions
was going to be alleviated first.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie gave Annie a quick smooch. “Stay there… I’m comin’ around to get ya.” He pushed open the car door and unfolded his
lanky frame from behind the Impala’s wheel.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Such <i>nice </i>manners,”
Annie giggled as she watched him round the front of the car and approach the
passenger side. Richie had to yank twice
on the handle to get the door to oblige, but he swung it open with a rusty <i>creak </i>and offered Annabelle his hand. “I may turn you into a Southern Gentleman
yet.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie grinned. “I
don’t know ‘bout <i>that</i>.” He waited until Annie stepped away from the
car before shoving the door shut. “Stupid
piece of shit,” he swore in a mutter as the misaligned door protested the
change in position. Richie hip-checked
the dingy metal just to be sure the door was securely latched. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie chortled amusedly at Richie’s sneer. “Okay, so maybe you need a little more work
in the Southern Gentleman department.
Like not swearin’ in front of a lady.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Or asking a woman her age?” Richie’s wry reply made Annie laugh. His heart warmed as he watched her eyes
sparkle and her golden curls bounce. She
was like a walking ray of sunshine.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yeah. Or that.” Annie gave Richie a sweet smile before
reaching for his hand. Twining her
fingers between his, she tugged gently. “Now
c’mon. Let me show you what a good ol’-fashioned
Southern summer carnival’s all about.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-5845572967708263852012-07-23T23:32:00.001-04:002012-07-24T09:12:57.115-04:00Chapter 32<br />
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Richie held his breath, waiting for Eddie’s
acknowledgment. The pause seemed to last
an eternity.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie’s ancient office chair creaked loudly as the hefty
man leaned back against the cracked vinyl upholstery. Richie heard the wheels scrape on the concrete
floor as the chair swiveled with its occupant’s movement.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“What’s that?”
There was a weary note to Eddie’s query, like he knew what Richie was
about to confess. But his voice was warm
and calm, as if he were encouraging a timid child.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie gulped and raised his gaze from his hands to the
kindly mechanic’s face. He almost
cringed at the benevolence in Eddie’s gray eyes.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Umm… I’m not sure I can… I can pay you for… for my
car. Not today, anyway.” </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie swallowed hard again, a wave of shame
washing over him. He blinked rapidly, willing
the moisture that suddenly glazed his eyes to dissipate. “I can give you part of the money now, but
the rest… Well, I’ll get it somehow.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie paused for a moment, dreading Eddie’s
response. When the mechanic just gave
him a sympathetic smile, Richie felt an extended explanation tumble from his
lips in an apologetic rush. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I’ll see if I can do some handyman work or
somethin’. Annie might know somebody who
needs some yard work done, or some stuff fixed around the house. Or maybe Miss Tillie does. I’m pretty good with tools…” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s hands moved animatedly as he
babbled, the folded yellow paper fluttering with his wave and with a gust of
air from the fan. “Or… Or maybe my Dad
can loan me the rest, send it by wire…”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The vocalization of his last resort stopped Richie
cold. His shoulders slumped as again his
head dropped. He stared defeatedly at
the folded invoice now crumpled in his hand.
At that moment he felt like a complete and utter failure.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Richie, I kinda figured you might be a little short on
cash.” Eddie’s reply was gentle, his
voice softened to a warm rumble. “Since
you said you ain’t been workin’ for awhile, and you’re sleepin’ on Annie’s sofa
instead of in a motel.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie nodded silently, unable to bring himself to look
up at the big man.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Times are tough, Son.
I know. For lots of folks around
here. Heck, most of my customers pay
their bills on an installment plan. They
just gimme what they can when their paychecks come in, until they’re paid
up.” Eddie chortled softly. “Or until I need somethin’ from <i>their</i> business, then I mark whatever it
costs me off-a their bill. That’s just
how we do things down here. Everybody’s
family, and you help family out.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“That’s… that’s a nice thing to do.” Richie mumbled. He wasn’t quite sure what Eddie’s explanation
had to do with his debt, since he was clearly not a local.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie answered Richie’s unspoken question. “So, since I figured you were sorta in a
fix, an’ you were already havin’ enough
bad luck, I gave you a break. Only
charged you for the part and for the tuneup, an’ just one hour of labor.” He nodded at the paper clenched in Richie’s
hand. “To keep my books right.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie acknowledged Eddie's explanation with a small defeated nod.
While he was grateful for Eddie’s compassion, Richie was certain the cost of
the thermostat and the filters and spark plugs they had replaced while tuning
up the Impala’s engine far exceeded the meager balance in his bank account.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Thanks, Eddie. I
really appreciate you giving me a break.
But right now I just don’t have the cash.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Seeing that Richie was still avoiding eye contact, Eddie
chuckled sympathetically. He turned in
his chair, making it creak again, and propped his feet up on the open bottom
desk drawer. “So…” He nodded again at
the invoice Richie held. “How much-a
that you think you can cover?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie shrugged, then sighed wearily. His gaze fixed on his hands as he slowly
uncrumpled the yellow paper, then opened the fold. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A brush of air from the fan made the stapled
adding machine tape flutter, momentarily distracting Richie’s gaze from the
ballpoint scrawl across the bill. A lump
rose in his throat as he comprehended the numbers at the bottom of the column
on the invoice’s right-hand side.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>SUBTOTAL:
$89.45<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Georgia Tax: $ 2.68<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<b>TOTAL: $92.13<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Almost a hundred dollars. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
He didn’t know how he’d come up with that kind of money doing odd jobs
around town. Now he had no choice but to
do the one thing he had desperately hoped to avoid – ask his father for money.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Listen, Eddie…” Richie started to offer the mechanic the
balance of his checkbook as a down payment, but hesitated. His eyes narrowed as they settled on something else
on the invoice, something he hadn’t noticed in his tunnel-vision focus on the
final cost of his repair. Then they
widened in surprise.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Angled across the middle of the paper, large block
letters stamped in red ink heralded the status of the debt: “<b><span style="color: red;">PAID IN FULL</span></b>.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie sat frozen for a moment, staring at the paper in
his hand. Swallowing hard, he opened his
mouth to confirm what he was seeing, to verify that Eddie hadn’t mistakenly marked off
his debt. Richie had to try three times
before his voice finally came out in a raspy croak.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Eddie… I… uh… This says ‘<i>Paid</i>’.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Uh huh. It sure
does.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie gulped again, choking back a lump of gratitude. The corners of his mouth curved gratefully
upward as again he blinked, his deep brown eyes shining with moisture. When he finally raised his gaze to meet Eddie’s,
the wide fatherly grin on the big man’s ruddy face almost made Richie’s self-control
crack.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“But… It’s a<i> lot</i> of money.” Richie’s protest was meek. “And all the time you spent helping me when
you coulda been working on somebody else’s car… instead of fixin’ mine for
free.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
He was embarrassed at the rush of euphoria welling inside
him; though Eddie’s apparent dismissal of the debt was a huge relief, Richie
felt a sharp pang of guilt. Eddie was a
working-class family man, with his own bills to pay and mouths to feed.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie chuckled again, this time a little more huskily,
touched by Richie’s obvious gratitude. “Well,
it ain’t exactly for <i>free</i>, Richie. You helped me out all day Saturday with
customers. An’ today you put in a lotta
good hours helpin’ me out with these repairs.”
He grinned and leaned back a little further in his chair, eliciting
another long <i>creak</i>. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“So that was eleven hours on Saturday, another nine
today, at three dollars an hour…” Eddie grinned
as he ticked off the numbers on his beefy fingers. “Heck, that’s sixty dollars in labor, right
there.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“But the cost of the parts… and part of that time I was
workin’ on my own car.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I know. But
Richie, it’s more’n just you workin’ hard for me.” Eddie gave the shaggy-headed young man a long
look, his voice gentling. “I told you,
we’re a family ‘round here. When you rode
into town in Annie’s pickup truck the other night, I had my doubts about you, I’ll
admit. But you proved somethin’ to me,
Richie.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie swallowed hard again. “What?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Son, you reminded me that good people come from all ‘round,
not just down here in our little communities, where people have known each
other for generations.” Eddie paused
again, clearing his throat lightly. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“The
respectfulness you showed me, and the manners you showed to Miss Tillie… And
how you kept smilin’ and bein’ friendly to everybody on Saturday who kept pokin’
their nose in your business, drivin’ in just to check you out…” Eddie snorted out an amused chuckle at Richie’s
wry grin and embarrassed shrug. “Believe me, I <i>know</i> that ain’t easy.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie chortled softly.
“Naw, it was alright. People here
are nice.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“And most of all, Richie…” Eddie’s voice gentled. “The way you treated Annabelle since you been
here. You’ve respected her, treated her
like a lady, even been a little protective of her, from what I hear.” Again he chuckled. “<i>And </i>you
came to church with her, when you ain't even Baptist.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s cheeks heated as he listened to Eddie’s
assessment of his relationship with Annie.
If only Eddie knew that what they had shared was<i> far</i> from the chaste
companionship he was describing.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Annie…. She… saved me.”
Richie dropped his gaze again to his hands as a gentle smile curved his
lips. “She’s amazing. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for her.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, she obviously thinks you’re worth savin’. And I have a feelin’ she did her damndest
over the past couple days to give you <i>every
</i>reason to be happy your ol’ Impala broke down in Darien.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie’s throaty chortle revealed that he <i>did</i> suspect the full extent of Richie’s
weekend activities with his hostess.
Richie’s blush deepened as he slouched back in his seat. He didn’t answer, confident Eddie could read
his admission in his posture and expression.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Richie, I don’t think I ever seen her smile at a boy the
way she smiles at you. And it’s been a
long time since I’ve seen her smile that much, period.” Eddie stared at Richie’s profile until the
younger man raised his head to give a sheepish nod of acknowledgement. He held
Richie’s gaze for a long minute, wanting to make sure his message was received.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
When he spoke again, Eddie’s tone was warmed by manly
affection. “Richie, what we were talkin’
about Saturday, about you goin’ back home and gettin’ a job and settlin’ down…” He paused, smiling benevolently.
“Don’t be in too much of a rush to do that, Son. You know, dreams are important. They’re what get you outta bed in the mornin' and what you pray for when you lay down at night. They keep life exciting.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s brows lifted with surprise at Eddie’s
contradictory advice. He sat silent,
wondering where the big man was heading with his unexpected observation.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“You’re a fine young man, Richie. A man of character. You work hard, you treat people right… Your
Ma and Pa should be real proud of you.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
At the mention of his parents Richie found his
voice. He smiled wistfully. “Thanks.
I think they are. No… I <i>know</i> they are.” Richie’s heart squeezed as he heard his
mother’s telephone farewell echo in his head.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, they have every right to be.” Eddie nodded his affirmation, then gave
Richie a fatherly smile. “Listen, I don’t
know much about you, other’n what you’ve told me and what I’ve seen with my own
eyes. But I know one thing, Son. When you came into town three days ago, you
felt like the world was kickin’ you in the ass.
I could see it, read it on your face.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s expression sobered. He nodded silently.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Then somethin’ happened.
You got a wake-up call, figured out that maybe the whole world ain’t so
rough. Or maybe you figured out how to put
all the bad stuff behind you and get down to what’s important. I dunno.
Whatever it was…” Eddie paused and
gave Richie a curious look. “You’re a
different man sittin’ in front of me right now than you were a couple days
ago. And I think that’s a good thing.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie shrugged, the corners of his mouth again curving
upward as he considered Eddie’s words. “Yeah,”
he agreed softly. “It is.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I know you’ve been wanderin’ around for awhile now,
trying to figure out how to live your life.
But the fact is… while you been tryin’ to figure out the answer, you’ve
been livin’ all along.” Eddie smiled
wisely. “An’ I have a feelin’ you found
the right path to take, to get you where you wanna go.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie pulled in a deep breath, nodding slowly as he
considered Eddie’s words. But despite
his silent affirmation, he realized Eddie’s statement couldn’t be further from the
truth. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Yes, this weekend had changed him, for the better. He had found shelter and comfort and
affection in the arms of an angel. He
had found passion in her bed and love in her heart. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
And he had rediscovered a part of his soul he thought was
long gone.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
But as to what path to take… he had no clue. He was torn.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie watched Richie’s face, reading the conflict in his
expression. His heart twinged with
sympathy. He felt for the young man,
having to decide whether to follow his dreams or to follow his heart.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie took a deep breath, then laced his fingers together
across his belly. “Richie, Saturday when
we were sittin’ here talkin’ at the end of the day, I asked you to do one
thing. Do you remember what that was?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie raised his face, his brown eyes meeting Eddie’s
earnest gray gaze. The men shared a long
look of silent understanding.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yes, Sir. I
remember.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay, then.” The
big mechanic leaned forward in his chair, extending a hand to his young
companion. “Whatever path you take,
wherever God leads you…. Good luck, Richie.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-38652729602054791442012-07-13T21:00:00.000-04:002012-07-13T21:00:00.078-04:00Chapter 31<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Dialing now.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie glanced out at the restaurant as he unconsciously
nodded at the operator’s reply. He saw
Annie give him a curious look as she stacked dirty dishes at a vacated
table. He was barely able to muster a
small smile in return before turning his back to her. Leaning against the wall beside the pay
phone, Richie sighed softly.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Hello?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Ma’am, Bell Telephone.
I have a collect call from Richie.
Do you accept the charges?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Why Yes! Oh,
Thank you, Operator!” Joan Sambora’s bright voice expressed her joy at the surprise communication.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“You’re connected.”
With a quiet <i>click</i> the operator exited the line.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie smiled at his mother’s excitement, even as a
twinge of guilt hit him. It had been
awhile since he talked to his parents.
“Hi, Ma.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh, Richie! It’s
so nice to hear from you! How are you,
Honey?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie chuckled quietly.
“I’m okay, Ma. How are you and
Dad doin’?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, we miss you, of course. But we’re fine.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Still dancing?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Joan laughed merrily.
“Yes, of course. We haven’t had a
competition in awhile, though. Your
father has been keeping very busy lately.
He’s started his bowling league again.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Bowling?”
Richie’s brow arched with surprise.
His father was an excellent bowler, and he had taught his son the skill
at a young age. For years Adam Sambora
had bowled with friends in an organized league, but when he was promoted to a
supervisory position at the plant he had been forced to drop out. His rotating schedule made it too hard for
him to keep his commitment to his teammates.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yes. He’s having
a lot of fun with it, as you can imagine.”
Joan’s happy giggle made Richie smile again. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“How’d he manage that?
Ain’t he working nights anymore?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well…” Joan’s voice softened a bit, as if she was
sharing a secret. “He gave up the
Foreman job. He’s back on day shift now,
as a line worker.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s gut tightened.
He knew what that meant… his Dad had also taken a corresponding pay cut.
Richie wondered if the demotion had been truly voluntary, or necessary for his
father to hang on to his Union job. Such
a move wasn’t unusual, particularly in tough times when employers were laying off workers.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
And here he was, calling to ask for money.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh. Well… at
least he gets to see you more now, right?
You get to have kind of a normal life?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yes, we do.
That’s a blessing. Especially
since we’re the only two in the house now.”
Joan’s comment carried a slightly poignant note. “And where are you, Richie? Are you in Florida now?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Naw. I’m in
Georgia.” Richie cringed
guiltily, realizing the last time he talked to his mother he was still in
Mississippi. That had been a couple
weeks ago.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, that’s nice.
Atlanta?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Nuh-uh. I’m in
Darien. It’s a little town on the
coast. Right on the ocean.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh. What are you
doing there? Playing at a club with a
new band?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie chuckled at his mother’s assumption. Her always-optimistic assessment of her son’s
talent warmed his heart, even if it was completely off-target.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“No, Ma. I’m not
with a band right now. I stopped here
because…” He paused, realizing he was
unwilling to confess the truth to his mother.
It was bad enough he had to ask his Old Man for help; he didn’t want to
make her worry too. “Um… I’m visiting a
friend. Staying at their place.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, that’s nice.”
Joan chuckled warmly. “Speaking
of your friends, I ran into Dean at the market.
He’s sacking groceries there now.
Such a nice young man. He asked
after you.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh?” Richie
winced silently. He and Dean had gone to
high school together, and played in a couple bands. To hear his former guitar sidekick was now
working as a grocery store bag boy was disheartening, to say the least. “What’d you tell him?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“That you were down South, of course. Makin’ records and playing your guitar.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s heart squeezed.
“Ma, I told you… I’m not <i>exactly</i> doing that right now.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, you <i>were.</i>
In Memphis. I showed Dean the
photograph you sent, of you and that other man at Sun Studios.” Joan’s happy voice was full of pride. “He thought it was really neat.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Great, Ma.” Richie sighed softly and reached up to pull
his fingers through his bangs. <i>Lovely.</i>
Now when he rolled into town and saw his old buddies they would be
expecting him to be some kind of big-shot musician. His mother had probably bragged about his
nonexistent solo record, too. <br />
<br />
“Well,
tell him I say ‘hi’ next time you see him.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I will. Are you
staying in Georgia for awhile, Honey?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Umm… maybe.” Richie looked over his shoulder as he gave his vague answer. He saw Annabelle had her back to him as she
conversed with some patrons at a table near the front window. The corner of his mouth curved upward as his
gaze lingered on the back pockets of her denim skirt.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“So I suppose you won’t be home for your birthday,
then?” Joan’s disappointment in the
falsely-upbeat question came through the telephone line, loud and clear.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie felt another stab of shame at his mother’s
query. “It’s only a few weeks away, Ma,”
he replied, avoiding a direct answer. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I know.” Joan
sighed. “This will be the first year I
don’t get to bake you a cake. But I
guess that’s what happens… Little boys grow up, become men, move away...” Her lament was thick with motherly guilt.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie rolled his eyes, but smiled despite his
remorse. “Ma, I’ll always let you bake
me a cake.” He chuckled quietly. “You make the best chocolate cake in the
whole world.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, Honey… when you come home that’s the first thing
I’m gonna do.” Joan giggled softly. “After I give you a big ol’ hug, that is.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay, Ma.”
Richie’s smile faded as he took a breath. “So, I guess Dad’s not home, then? If he’s workin’ days?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“No, he’s at work.
Do you want me to give him a message?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie shook his head, even though she couldn’t see
him. “Naw. I’ll try to call back later. What time will he be home? Five?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“No, tonight’s League Night. He usually goes straight to the lanes from
the factory. He won’t be home until
after nine.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie frowned. As
much as he dreaded asking his father for money, he had hoped to at least have a
plan when he returned to the garage.
Now he would definitely have to go back to Eddie empty-handed, without
even the promise of a Western Union Moneygram on the way. Assuming his father had the money to lend
him, of course.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Alright, Ma.
Maybe I’ll try to call him later tonight. Depends what’s going on down here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Are you playing tonight?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie shook his head, a little smile again turning
his lips. God Bless his Mother, for
always assuming he was a working musician.
“Naw. I’m taking… uh…going to a
carnival with my… friend.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh! Well, that
sounds like fun. Just be careful and
watch out for those Carnies. They’ll
steal your last dollar if you don’t keep an eye on your wallet.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Joan’s warning made Richie snort out an ironic
laugh. As if he even had a dollar left
to steal. “I’ll be careful, Ma. I always am.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I miss you, Richie-Boo.
It’s so nice to hear your voice.”
Joan’s lament was tinged with sadness.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie grimaced at the pet name as his heart squeezed. “I miss you too, Ma. Sorry I haven’t called in awhile.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Please call your father tonight. He misses you too. It’s just not the same around here without
you.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie swallowed hard.
“Yeah, I will. Tell Dad I miss
him too.” He cleared the lump from his
throat. “Listen, Ma. I gotta go, okay?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay, Darling. I
love you. Be careful.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Love you too, Ma.
I will.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie dropped the receiver back into its cradle, then
braced his arm across the phone-box. He
sighed heavily as he bowed his head, resting his forehead against his
forearm. His heart throbbed guiltily as
he blinked away the mist from his brown eyes.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Well, so much for that.
He had just delayed the inevitable.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
With another deep sigh Richie lifted his head and stepped
back from the pay phone. He swallowed
hard before turning to face the roomful of people. Forcing a little smile, Richie wandered over
to the counter, where Annie was pouring sweet tea into ice-filled red plastic tumblers arranged on a round tray.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Hey. Your burgers
are ready.” Annie tipped her head toward
the greasy brown paper bag resting on the ledge of the pick-up window. “You don’t got time to eat here?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie shook his head.
“Naw. Eddie wanted me to bring
‘em back to the garage. He’s calling in
a parts order.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh. Well, let me
grab you a couple cold Cokes.” Annie set
down the pitcher and stepped to her left.
She leaned to reach down into the cooler. Extracting two frosty bottles, she set them
on the counter in front of Richie. “You
can pop ‘em open on the bottle opener he has back by the bench.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie chuckled.
“Yeah. Or on the one in his Coke
machine.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie gave Richie an inquisitive look, tipping her
head. “Everything okay?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Sure. Why?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“You just seem kinda quiet today, is all.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie shrugged.
He could see in Annie’s concerned gaze that she was curious about his
phone call. “Naw, I’m okay. I just called home to say Hi to my Ma. She says I don’t call often enough.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie’s smile gentled.
“She misses you, huh?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yeah. You know,
I’ll always be her Little Boy.” Richie
grinned sheepishly. “Guess I miss her
too. And my Dad.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, nothin’ wrong with that. Family is important.” Annie reached to give Richie’s arm a little
squeeze. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yeah,” Richie repeated.
His eyes met Annie’s and he gave her an apologetic smile. “I better get back. Eddie’s waiting on me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay. Lemme get
your burgers.” Annie patted Richie’s arm
before stepping away. She moved over to
retrieve the paper bag from the order window, then set it next to the Coca-Cola bottles on the counter.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Here…” Richie fished in his front pocket, pulling out
the crumpled wad of paper money. "How much?"</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie waved a hand.
“Don’t worry about it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“But Annie… Miss Tillie can’t keep feeding me… <i>us</i>… for free.” Richie protested though he was silently
relieved at her charity. “She’s got a
business to run.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie smirked.
“It’s just a couple burgers and some fries, Richie. Miss Tillie feeds Eddie all the time. And she ain’t paid for gas or oil changes in <i>years.</i>
It all works out in the end.” She
gave him a little wink.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie chuckled at her revelation, then pushed the money
back into his pocket. “Well… okay. Thanks.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“You got it.”
Annie watched Richie loop his fingers around the necks of the Coke
bottles, then pick up the burger bag with his other hand. As he turned for the door, she made him
pause. “Hey, Richie?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yeah?” He looked
back over his shoulder. His heart melted
at her sweet smile.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I’m lookin’ forward to goin' to the carnival with you
tonight.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A genuine smile lit Richie’s face. “Me too.”
He gave her a little nod, then moved to the door. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie sighed and leaned down to pull another cold Coke
from the cooler. Popping the cap, she
took a long drink as she gazed through the diner’s plate glass window, watching
Richie cross the street and disappear into the bay of Eddie’s Texaco.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
***** </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie pulled the Impala back up onto the concrete apron
and guided it to a stop. He smiled faintly as
he put the big car in park and shut down the engine.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie looked up at the slam of the heavy door, then
backed out from under the hood of the pickup truck. He wiped his hands as he stood upright and gave
Richie a grin.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“So? How’d she do?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie grinned back at the big mechanic as he wandered
across the cement and into the cool shadow of the garage bay. “Great.
Runs better than it has in months.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Good. Told ya
adjustin’ the timin’ would help. As long
as we were in there, may as well tune stuff up.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yeah. She needed
it.” Richie nodded and looked down at his
scuffed boots. He shuffled his feet, realizing
now was the time to reveal his financial problem to Eddie. “Thanks, Eddie. I don’t know what I woulda done if you hadn’t
helped me out.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A low chuckle rumbled from the big man. “Happy to do it, Richie. ‘Sides, in case you ain’t noticed, that’s
what I do here… in this here service station and <i>garage?” </i>He placed a heavy,
drawling accent on the nature of his business.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie laughed quietly, looking up at Eddie. “Yeah, I guess so. But thanks for letting me help out. I used to work on cars with my Dad… I kinda
miss it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie nodded understandingly. “Somethin’ about a father and son bondin’
over an engine block, huh?” He chuckled
again, tipping his head toward the open hood behind him. “Speakin’ of which… I gotta get this
transmission finished up. You wanna give
me a hand? Or are you plannin’ to hit
the road?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Sure, I’ll help.
I’m not goin’ anywhere.” Richie
shrugged, giving Eddie a little nod. “Well,
except tonight. Turns out Annie <i>does </i>want me to take her to that
carnival.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie gave Richie a long look, an amused smile still on
his ruddy face. “She does, huh? Ain’t that interferin’ with your travel
plans?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie shrugged again, feeling his cheeks color a bit
under the man’s scrutiny. “I’m not in any
hurry to get on the road. Jersey ain’t
goin’ nowhere.” Again he looked down,
the admission of his poverty sticking in his throat.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“And neither is Annabelle,” Eddie replied knowingly. He chuckled again when Richie didn’t reply or
meet his gaze. “Alright, well… let’s get
this trannie finished up. Lance is comin’
to pick it up at five.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay.” Richie
nodded and stepped over to the pickup truck, picking up a wrench. “What do you want me to do?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
For the next two hours Richie and Eddie worked side-by
side, installing the new part and reassembling the engine. As they worked Richie’s mind swirled with
bittersweet memories of home and with gentle thoughts of his precious weekend with
Annie. By the time they closed the hood
on the repaired truck, Richie’s heart squeezed with a dull ache of homesickness
tempered by yearning for the woman waiting for him just across the street.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Alright. Go ahead
and pull ‘er over to pump, fill ‘er up, then just park ‘er over there next to
your Impala.” As he gave Richie the directive Eddie gestured first from the
pickup truck to the pump, then to an empty space outside the garage. “I’m gonna go in
the office and write up the ticket.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay.” Richie
nodded his dark head and moved to the truck’s driver-side door. “Anything else?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Naw, just get somethin’ cold to drink and come on in the
office. You can sit in front of the fan a
minute and cool down before we start sweepin’ up.” Eddie wiped his greasy forearm across his
face, which was now bright red and dripping with perspiration. “Lordy, it got hot this afternoon.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Uh huh,” Richie agreed, swiping the back of his neck with
a grimy hand. He was drenched with sweat
as well, thanks to the oppressive Southern humidity. <br />
<br />
Waiting for Eddie to move past him toward the
doorway into the office, Richie climbed into the driver’s seat of the Chevy
pickup truck. The engine started with a
loud rumble, then purred evenly as Richie put the truck into gear and carefully backed
it out of the garage bay.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
As instructed, Richie pulled the vehicle up to the gas pump
in front of the station, then filled the tank with gas. As he stood holding the nozzle Richie looked
across the street at the glass-fronted diner.
A little smile curved his mouth when he saw Annie’s wave. He raised his free hand in acknowledgement.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Once the gas tank was full Richie moved the truck to the
designated spot. He left the key in the
ignition and wandered back into the garage bay. Pausing to push a quarter into the Coke
machine near the back door, Richie pulled a cold glass bottle from the rack. He popped off the bottlecap and drank deeply,
appreciating the chill that slid down his throat and into his belly. He gave a little burp before turning toward
the office door.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie hesitated, realizing the moment of truth had
come. He closed his eyes for a moment
and took a deep breath, then stepped forward.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
He just hoped Eddie would understand.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A dozen short steps carried Richie from the bay and into
Eddie’s office, where he found the big mechanic squinting down at a receipt
pad. Eddie's beefy hand was clenched around
a ballpoint pen as he scribbled on the tablet, marking boxes and noting figures
in his sloppy handwriting. Richie paused
in the doorway.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“All done,” he commented when Eddie looked up, over the
tops of his reading glasses. “I’ll go
ahead and start cleaning up.” Richie raised
the half-empty bottle again to his lips, taking another swig of the cold soda.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Naw, naw…” Eddie waved a hand toward the chair beside
his desk, where Richie had sat just two days ago. “Sit.
Cool down a minute. I’m almost
done with this.” He returned his
attention to the bill in front of him. “Just
gotta figure up the tax and print up the tape.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The brush of breeze from the oscillating fan across
Richie’s skin felt good. He shrugged and
silently followed Eddie’s order, stepping over to lower his lanky frame onto the
worn chair. Another gust of breeze
caught him in the face, ruffling his sweaty bangs and whipping the long
tendrils of dark hair that had escaped from his ponytail.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie watched silently as Eddie’s fingers stabbed at the
keys of a bulky adding machine. Each
click and whir of the printer across the rolled paper with each dollar amount
entry made him wince. It was literally
the sound of money. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
With a flourish Eddie hit the ‘total’ key and the adding
machine clattered animatedly. It spit out
a long strip of paper, printed with the figures for the pickup truck’s
repair. Eddie ripped the paper from the roll
and perused it carefully. Satisfied it
was correct, he tore the multi-copy page from his tablet, separated the yellow
copy from the pink and the white, stacked the paper strip from the adding
machine on top of the pile, and stuck the papers into the mouth of an ancient
stapler. With a loud <i>thunk</i> Eddie’s fist pounded the stapler,
fastening the invoices together. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Awlright. Done
with that.” Eddie reached to toss the
bill in the battered metal box at the corner of his desk. “Oh, and while I’m at it…” He ruffled through
the papers already in the outbox.
With a little grunt he extracted a similar stapled invoice, that had
been folded in half. He handed it to
Richie. “… This one’s yours.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie swallowed hard as he reached to accept the folded
paper. He saw
his name scrawled across the outside, in messy penmanship that he was sure
matched the figures he would see when he unfolded the bill. His head bowed as he dropped his hands to his
lap, gingerly holding the record of debt in his long fingers. <br />
<br />
He had to try twice to make his voice work,
but finally Richie forced the raspy mumble.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Umm… Eddie? I need to tell you somethin’…”</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-6831934209278581582012-07-11T21:00:00.000-04:002012-07-11T22:27:11.572-04:00Chapter 30<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annabelle froze, realizing the happy idea she had just
chirped out in her gush over Richie’s talent.
She snapped her mouth shut before turning back to face Tillie. Annie tried to give her a nonchalant shrug, but
the gesture came off more as a sheepish slouch.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well… maybe not <i>right
</i>away.” Annie crossed her arms over
her chest again, unconsciously closing herself off to unsolicited
opinions. “He said somethin’ about maybe
staying here awhile.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Tillie’s brow arched, easily reading her God-daughter’s
evasive answer. “Stayin’ <i>awhile,</i> huh? Just how long is that?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie shrugged again, then straightened her
shoulders. “Don’t know. Just… awhile.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Really? What’s he
gonna do for <i>awhile</i> here in Darien? Hang
around Eddie’s garage and go out an’ play his guitar at that Juke Shack on
Saturday nights?” Tillie’s tone was
accusing.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“He can get a job.
Maybe at the paper mill.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Tillie shook her head.
“Annie, you know as well as I do that the Mill ain’t hirin’. For Pete’s sake, they just laid off a buncha
folks. Mel Watson was tellin’ me his
son-in-law Randy was there four <i>years</i>
an’ they just sent him home.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie’s lips pressed together as she bristled at Tillie’s
practical argument. She knew as well as
everyone else in Darien that times were tough.
“Well, he can find somethin’ to do, I’m sure. He’s a hard worker, Miss Tillie, and he
ain’t afraid to get his hands dirty.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Tillie clucked disapprovingly, though she didn’t disagree
with Annabelle’s assessment of Richie’s work ethic. From what she had seen the young man really
wasn’t afraid of an honest day’s work. She
tried another tack, one she was pretty sure would elicit an honest response.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“And just <i>when </i>did
Young Richie decide maybe he should stay in our little town awhile? About the time you were takin’ care of him,
out at your nice little house? Cookin’
and cleanin’ for him and givin’ him a place to sleep?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie’s jaw tightened. “<i>No.</i>
Actually…” Her expression
softened as she answered Tillie’s accusatory question. “It was when he was at church.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“<i>OH. Church.</i> So Sunday’s sermon moved him so deeply that
he decided to stay in Darien and become part of the parish?” Tillie snorted. “That might be the first time somebody
actually<i> listened</i> to what the
Reverend Purdy had to say from that pulpit.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie couldn’t bite back a chuckle at Tillie’s sarcastic
comment. But still, she didn’t
appreciate the older woman’s judgmental inquisition.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“It didn’t have anything to do with the sermon. Richie told me he just <i>likes</i> it here. The people
are friendly, he feels welcome… He said Darien is a nice place to live. <i>So</i>…” She blushed slightly in spite of
herself. “So he thinks he’s gonna stay.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Tillie gave Annie a direct look, seeing right through her
front. It was obvious to her that
Annie’s argument was more in defiance of her Godmother’s opinion than it was in
defense of Richie’s motives. There was
also no doubt from the little catch in Annie’s voice that her support of Richie’s
plan was half-hearted.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The older woman calmly set her coffee cup on its saucer,
then placed the dishes on the counter. When Tillie
spoke again her voice was gentler. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Annabelle. You
remember that time you and your Mama found that little puppy-dog over at the
fairgrounds? You were about eight or
nine?” She smoothed her hands over her
apron and waited for Annie’s response.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie’s expression turned quizzical as her lips curved
into a little smile at the memory. She
nodded slowly. “Rascal? Sure.”
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“That’s the one.
That skinny, scrawny little mutt that was wanderin’ around all alone,
diggin’ through the garbage for scraps.
You and your Mama felt sorry for him so you took him home.” Tillie smiled gently, remembering how
Annabelle’s mother had a soft spot for strays, just like her daughter. “You fed him and played with him and
scratched him behind his ears, and that little puppy-dog followed you <i>everywhere</i>.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie nodded slightly, realizing where Tillie was going
with her parable. “Yeah. He was a real sweet dog.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“That’s right. And
when your Mama heard about that family over in Jesup, whose little dog got
loose and got lost tryin’ to find his way home… Well, she knew the right thing
to do was to find out if that little puppy-dog <i>she</i> found belonged to some other
child. Even though her own little girl <i>loved</i> that dog.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie felt a light sheen of tears mist her bright blue
eyes, recalling the heartbreaking vision of the little dog peering out the back window of the
family’s car as it rolled away down the drive.
She blinked rapidly and gave Tillie a half-hearted glare. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I know what you’re tryin’ to do, Miss Tillie. But Richie ain’t somebody’s pet. He’s a grown man. He can make up his own mind about where he
belongs.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“I know, I know.
But sometimes men are like dogs, Annie.
You take ‘em in, you feed ‘em and scratch their bellies and show ‘em a
little love….” She smirked lightly. “And they think they belong with you. Even though they have a family… their <i>real</i> family… waitin’ on ‘em to come back
home where they <i>really</i> belong.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie saw in Tillie’s sympathetic gaze that the older woman
could see through her façade. Her heart
squeezed at the silent confirmation that her own instincts had been right all
along.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
*****</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie grunted quietly as he stood upright, his aching
back giving a twinge of protest. He set
his wrench on the Impala’s engine block before pulling a grimy rag from the
pocket of his overalls and swiping it over his sweaty brow.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Beside him, Richie ducked out from under the hood. He reached up to pull a hand through his
sweaty bangs, then down the back of his head to adjust the band that held his shaggy dark hair gathered into a long, damp ponytail. The Georgia summer was fully
upon them today.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay, so that should about do ‘er.” Eddie nodded at the big engine. “Everything else looks fine.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie nodded mutely, both relieved and a little
uncomfortable. While he was glad his car
was once again in working order, the time had come to reveal his poverty to the
man who had so generously helped him.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Umm… listen, Eddie…”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s tentative confession was cut short by the crunch
of tires on rocky asphalt and a loud <i>ding!-ding!</i>
warning from the fuel dais as a customer pulled up to the pumps in front of the
shop.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Ignoring Richie’s arrested comment, Eddie turned to look
at the arrival. Recognizing the woman
driving the big white Lincoln-Continental, he grinned widely and waved.<br />
<br />
“Well hey there, Miss Gladys!” Eddie gave Richie a sideways smirk before
muttering from the side of his mouth. “She’s President of the P.T.A. Knows every<i>thing</i> about every<i>body</i> in
the county. Nosiest woman in the state.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie snorted softly.
“Well then, she probably knows about me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“You can <i>count</i>
on that, Son.” Eddie winked and stuffed
the rag back in his pocket.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“You want me to go service her?” Richie blushed slightly as he realized how
his question could be construed.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie chuckled.
“Naw, I got somethin’ to ask her anyway.
Marlene wants to know about the Fall Festival Committee.” He took a few steps toward the waiting automobile
before pausing. He half-turned back
toward Richie.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Hey, why don’tcha run over to Tillie’s and grab us a couple
burgers? I gotta call in a parts order,
so by the time Otis cooks ‘em up and you get back over here I should be
done. After we eat we’ll run your Impala
out and see how she goes.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay.” Richie
nodded. He shoved his hand in his
pocket, feeling for the meager wad of bills crumpled there. He wasn’t sure if Eddie intended for him to
pay for their lunch, or if Annie would ply them with free burgers, or
what. He didn’t mind repaying Eddie’s
kindness by picking up the lunch tab, but considering he couldn’t even pay for
his auto repair…</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Realizing it would be impolite to ask, Richie quickly
swallowed his question. He yanked his
greasy hand from his pocket and turned toward the Impala. Richie was careful to remove the abandoned wrenches
from the engine compartment and return them to the tool box beside the Chevy’s
front wheel before slamming the heavy hood down. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
As he felt the dull <i>thunk</i>
vibrate up his arm Richie silently prayed that his car was indeed
operational again. It would give him the
freedom to come and go as he pleased and remove the burden from Annie of having
to drive him everywhere. Though he
believed her when she said she didn’t mind, Richie still felt as if he was
taking advantage of her generosity. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Well… He’d have freedom if Eddie would <i>let </i>him drive his car for more than a
test run, anyway. If Richie couldn’t
work out some payment arrangement, the Impala may be sitting idle at the Texaco
until he could come up with cash for the repair. Richie’s expression sobered at the thought.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Turning away from the car, Richie started walking toward
the brick-paved street and the little diner beyond. His path took him past the fuel pump where
Eddie was now conversing with the prim-looking middle-aged brunette woman through the
driver-side window of the Lincoln.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh! <i>Yoo</i> Hoo!
<i>Hello</i> there!” Interrupting whatever Eddie was saying, Miss
Gladys called out to Richie in a cheery chirp.
Her manicured hand fluttered out the window, attracting Richie’s
attention.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie stopped in his tracks, surprised by her call. Then he turned to look toward
the car window in acknowledgement of the greeting. Richie grinned sheepishly at Eddie’s subtle
eye roll for his benefit.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Uh… hi.
Ma’am.” Richie quickly remembered
his manners.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“You must be Annabelle’s friend.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Eddie chortled and came to Richie’s rescue. “Oh yeah, sorry. Gladys, this is Richie. Richie, Gladys Turnbull.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Gladys beamed as Richie nodded politely. “And how are you liking our little town of
Darien, Richie?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“It’s nice. People
are real friendly.” Richie smiled,
sincere in his assessment.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“And how long will you be staying?” Gladys’ arched brows were almost comical.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Uh…” Richie glanced at Eddie. “I’m not sure…” He cringed inwardly when he saw the big
mechanic’s brow lift as well.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“We just got Richie’s car fixed up, so if’n she runs he
can go whenever he’s ready,” Eddie interjected.
He tilted his head toward Tillie’s restaurant and gave Richie a look
that clearly invited him to escape the uncomfortable situation.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie understood, but was only able to take one step
toward the street before Gladys addressed him again.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, if you’ll be in town a few more days, you’ll have
to be <i>sure</i> to come on down to the Lions
Club carnival! Maybe bring Annabelle
along?” The cheery comment was more of a
directive than a request.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie gave the woman a weak smile. “That sounds like fun. But I’m not sure if Annie will want to go…”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Oh, of <i>course </i>she
will! She’s been goin’ since she was a little girl. We have the carnival <i>every </i>year. It’s the highlight of the summer!”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie nodded and took a step backward, trying to hasten
his escape. “Umm… okay. I’ll ask her if she wants to.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“It opens tonight, down in Brunswick. Rides are half-price!” Gladys fluttered her hand at Richie
again. “Y’all can ride the ferris wheel
together!”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Uh, <i>anyway</i>
Gladys…” Eddie interrupted the woman’s
now almost-frantic promotion of the carnival, stepping more fully in front of
the car window and lowering his head.
“Marlene wanted me to ask you about…”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie saw his chance to escape and took it. Quickly turning his back, he strode across
the street and between the cars angle-parked in front of Tillie’s diner. He breathed a sigh of relief as the tinkle of
the bell announced his entry into the little restaurant.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie paused inside the door, looking around the room
for Annie. When he didn’t immediately
see her he moved to the counter and settled on the stool at the far end,
next to the jukebox.<br />
<br />
Seconds later she
pushed through the door from the kitchen, her serving tray laden with plates
holding thick slices of fruit pie. A
smile automatically curved Richie’s mouth as he watched Annabelle deliver the
desserts to a table of patrons on the far side of the room.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Hey, Hippie Boy!”
Otis’ cheerful baritone pulled Richie’s attention away from Annie’s
activity. He gave the cook a little
grin.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Hey Otis.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“You want somethin’ to eat?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie nodded.
“Yeah. Eddie sent me over for
burgers. To go.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Otis nodded. “You
want fries or rings?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Umm… both, I guess?”
Richie shrugged, not knowing which fried burger accompaniment Eddie
would prefer. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Comin’ right up.”
Otis’ grinning ebony face disappeared from the window behind the
counter as he hustled to prepare Richie’s order.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie turned on his stool to look again toward Annie’s
last location. He was momentarily
startled to see her just a few steps away, now picking up a check and tip from
the table immediately behind him. He
watched as she sweetly thanked the patrons, then stepped away from the table to
turn her attention to Richie.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Hey there. You
get your car runnin’?” Annie’s question
was quiet, her voice soft despite the noisy clatter of the bustling restaurant.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yeah, think so.
We haven’t driven it yet, but it starts up.” Richie felt his stomach tighten a little as
he thought of the conversation with Eddie that was coming. “Gonna take it out after lunch.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Well, that’s good, right?” Annie smiled brightly. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Yeah. Then you
won’t have to drive me all over the place.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie chortled gently at Richie’s half-lament. “I don’t mind. It’s nice havin’ the company.” She turned her head to glance around the
room, checking to see that her customers were all content. Her blonde curls swished softly over her
shoulders as she returned her smile to Richie.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“But to celebrate, how about you take me out
tonight? You can drive me in your
newly-fixed Impala.” She smirked and
leaned in a little closer, her voice dropping discretely. “Maybe you can show me that broken spring in
the middle of the back seat.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie’s groin tightened a little at Annie’s
not-so-innocent suggestion. He gave her
a little nod of agreement, hoping he would be able to oblige her request. “Yeah… uh… I hear there’s a carnival in
town.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie’s grin widened.
“Eddie told you ‘bout that, huh?
It’s the Lions Club carnival, down in Brunswick. They have it every year, to raise money for
children’s homes and stuff.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Actually some woman named Gladys told me about it.” Richie tipped his head toward the diner’s front window
and the gas pumps beyond. “She seemed
pretty excited.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Annie giggled.
“Gladys Turnbull? Yeah, she gets
excited about <i>everything</i>.” Her blue eyes sparkled as she gave Richie a
sweet smile. “So, you want somethin’ to
eat?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Otis is fixing burgers for me and Eddie.” </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Okay. Wanna
Coke?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Sure.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Comin’ right up.
Just lemme refill Mister Jackson’s coffee first.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie nodded and watched Annie move along the counter and around its end to retrieve the coffee pot. His expression sobered as he considered the
plans he had just made, to take Annie out on a date tonight. He didn’t know how he was going to pull that
off, considering he had no money to spend on carnival rides or games… or on his
car, to drive her there.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
As he considered his predicament Richie’s gaze wandered aimlessly
across the room. It paused on an item in
the far back corner, a shiny black and silver box on the wall next to the bathroom
door. Richie winced as he realized he had
run out of options.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
With a heavy sigh he pushed himself off the stool and
wandered across the crowded little room.
He gave Annie a half-hearted smile in response to her inquiring look,
but didn’t stop until he reached the pay phone.
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Ducking into the darkened little corner, Richie lifted
the receiver from its cradle and held it to his ear before dialing “zero.” A distant Southern woman’s voice sounded
through the line.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Operator. How may
I place your call?”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Richie swallowed hard.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Collect call to six-oh-nine, seven-two-two,
oh-one-one-eight. From Richie.”</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-83787722613329027292011-10-07T21:00:00.057-04:002011-10-07T21:00:03.334-04:00Chapter 29<div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie took a deep breath as he paused inside the doorway, looking around for signs of life. It was 7:10 a.m. and Eddie’s Texaco was obviously open for business, one of the twin roll-up doors raised and lights burning in the garage bay. But the kindly proprietor was nowhere in sight.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie scrubbed his hands over his stubbly cheeks, trying to make himself fully alert. He had gotten only a few hours of sleep before Annie roused him to begin their day. He cleared his dry throat before raspily announcing his presence.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Eddie? You here?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A moment later he heard the big man’s muffled voice, sounding from the little bathroom in back of the bay. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah. That you, Richie?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes Sir.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Hang on. I’ll be out in a minute.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shoved his hands in his jeans pockets and wandered over to the tool bench against the wall. There he noticed a medium-sized cardboard box, one bottom corner smashed in and its top flaps angled open. The black print on the side of the kraft cardboard confirmed Richie’s suspicion. It was the new thermostat for his Impala.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Pushing aside the cardboard flaps, Richie stared into the box. The part was new, its shiny metal glinting with a light sheen of oil. Richie felt a stab of dread in the pit of his stomach as he regarded the little gadget, wondering how much much its installation would cost. He muttered a silent prayer that this was the only problem in the Impala’s greasy, worn engine. If this part wasn’t the fix, a more extensive repair could cost him much, much more. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">During his morning shower Richie had realized today was the day he would have to come up with some means of financing the Impala’s repair. The weekend’s events had pushed his money worries to the back of his mind. But the weekend was over, and now he had to face reality.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">While Annabelle was dressing Richie had dug through his rucksack, looking for his checkbook. When he flipped through the tattered register his heart sank. He had only thirty-six dollars in his account, and maybe twenty dollars and change in his pocket. That was all he had to his name. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He was pretty sure the Impala’s repair would cost far more than that.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Over his coffee Richie had pondered what to tell Eddie about his financial situation, and how to make some quick cash to settle his debt. He didn’t think the little town of Darien had a pawn shop, and he didn’t really have anything of value to sell anyway. His guitar and his car were his only possessions worth anything, and only one of them was in working order.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
A lump formed in Richie’s throat at the idea of pawning his guitar. He just couldn’t do that, not now. Not when the music was finally coming back to him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
For a fleeting moment Richie considered the possibility of using his talent to earn some cash. After all, he had been able to scratch out a living in Memphis playing his guitar. But this wasn’t Memphis; Darien didn’t have any nightclubs or music halls where he could play for tip money. The only places where music was played here seemed to be a backwater Juke Joint and Church. There wasn’t even really a place for him to busk on the three-block-long main street. In this little town, his talent was basically useless.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">By the time Annie was ready to drive them to town, he had nothing. As he sat silent in the passenger seat of the old pickup truck, Richie decided he would have to wait and see how things went. Maybe once he knew what kind of money he would have to come up with, an idea would present itself to him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The only thing that had kept Richie from slipping into despair this morning was Annie. He awakened to find her smiling down on him like the angel he knew her to be. She had kissed him good morning, given him a cup of coffee, then curled against him on the porch swing to watch the sunrise before reluctantly slipping away to shower and dress for her shift at the restaurant. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Sweet memories of their previous night’s passion made Richie smile despite his worry. She was his salvation, no matter what happened. As long as he was with Annie, everything would be alright.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie heard a door creak open, followed by the whoosh of a flushing toilet. Eddie emerged from the washroom, drying his hands on a dingy red shop rag. He was dressed exactly as he had been when Richie had last seen him here, in faded, grease-stained blue coveralls and scuffed work boots.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mornin’ Son.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mornin’ Sir.” Richie pulled his hands from his jeans pockets as he turned to face the big mechanic. He reached out to accept Eddie’s damp hand, extended in greeting.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You have a nice Sunday?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded, a small smile curving his mouth. “Yeah. You?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sure did. Nice and quiet.” Eddie gave Richie an appraising look. “You and Annabelle didn’t stick around too long at the potluck. She take you someplace?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No. Just back to her house.” Richie shuffled his feet as he flinched under Eddie’s ill-disguised interrogation. “She had chores to take care of, so I just helped out. Mowed the yard, worked in the garden.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Eddie snorted a quiet chuckle. “So much for Sunday as a day of rest, huh? Marlene had me pullin’ out bushes and weedin' her flower beds all afternoon too.” He stuffed the rag in his pocket and clapped Richie on the shoulder. “Well, now it’s back-to-work time. Let’s see about gettin’ you back on the road North.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie tried to muster a grateful smile as his heart throbbed dully at Eddie’s declaration. For some strange reason he felt almost guilty that he wasn’t planning to head back to Jersey when his car was fixed, as he had promised on Saturday. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie remembered Eddie’s gentle warning, when they had sat in his office and had their man-to man talk. <i>Think twice about Annabelle before leaving her lonely. </i>Well, he wasn’t planning to leave her at all. He was going to start a new life here in Darien, with her. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie's smile faded. He had been bursting with excitement yesterday, at the idea of spending every day and night with Annie. But now his happiness felt somehow hollow, like a compromise.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Go ahead and pop the hood.” Eddie waved a hand in the direction of the Impala, which was parked on the pavement apron outside the garage. “We should be able to fix ‘er without havin’ to get 'er up on the lift.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay.” Richie nodded and turned to look at the beat-up sedan. A little sigh escaped from him as he regarded the old car.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Son… Things okay?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The note of kind concern in Eddie’s voice made Richie look back at him in surprise.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Huh? Umm… yeah, I guess. Why?” He hoped he didn’t sound worried as the image of his pathetic checkbook register flashed in his mind.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You just look like you got somethin’ on your mind, is all.” Eddie gave Richie a fatherly smile. “A girl, maybe?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His allusion to Annie made the corners of Richie’s mouth twitch slightly upward, a tiny motion that wasn’t lost on Eddie. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Nah. All good.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, okay then. Let’s get to work.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">***** </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie swiped the cloth absently across the counter as she gazed out the plate-glass window. A little smile curved her lips as she watched the two men ducked under the Impala’s raised hood, working together on the day’s task.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Eddie was clearly explaining the internal combustion engine’s workings to Richie, his lecture apparent from his animated hand gestures. Richie watched and nodded along, his dark hair swinging with the motion. But his body language betrayed his inattention. He shifted from one foot to the other, then finally stepped back and stood upright. Richie glanced toward the little diner across the street as he raised a hand to swipe back his shaggy bangs from his face.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s lips pursed thoughtfully as she wondered what was on Richie’s mind. This morning he hadn’t seemed himself; at least not like the Richie she had come to know over the course of the weekend. He also hadn’t seemed to have reverted to the haunted sadness he had carried into town with him. <br />
<br />
Today was different. <i>He</i> was different.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Something had changed.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie shook her head slowly, trying to clear away a shadow of worry. The answer was as obvious as it was unwelcome. What was different wasn’t Richie… it was<i> Them</i>.<br />
<br />
Annabelle had felt a connection with the handsome young stranger the moment he first flashed his shy smile. Their bond had quickly grown as they recognized in each other kindred spirits and mutual desire. This weekend they had shared more than just a bed. They had shared dreams, hopes, truths, and fears. Passion and pain. Hearts and souls. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">They had shared each other. Fully.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He had told her he loved her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">And then he didn’t.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Something had changed.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s gaze followed Richie as he turned to face Tillie’s front window. He gave her a little half-smile and a brief wave before striding into the shadows of the garage bay. Annie smiled in response to the gesture but didn’t move. She just continued to wipe at the grey formica as her thoughts continued to swirl.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Last night had been special. What she and Richie shared was so deeply intimate, in more ways than one. She let go of her inhibitions and trusted him to please her in a way she had never allowed any other man. He had shared with her something special and personal of his own… his music.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His music. It was beautiful. Soulful, touching… even elegant. And he had thanked her for bringing it back to him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After their lovemaking she had lain awake and listened to him softly singing and playing on her front porch, just outside her bedroom window. She didn’t recognize any of the words or melodies or chords… they were rough and new, born of the night. It was as if she was listening to Richie’s soul whisper through his guitar, sharing his secrets with the moonlight.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">For nearly an hour she waited for Richie to come back to her bed, to hold her and share in her contentment. But he kept playing. Finally she had fallen asleep to the lullaby of guitar strings and his soft croon.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Yes, something had definitely changed. For both of them.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I think that spot’s clean there, Missy.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Tillie’s calm observation startled Annie from her contemplation. Looking down at the tepid rag in her hand, Annie chortled quietly. “Is it?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Tillie brushed past Annabelle to deposit a stack of freshly-washed plastic tumblers under the counter. “Eddie’s gettin’ Richie’s car up and runnin’?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie tossed the rag aside. “Suppose so. Chick Newton brought the part they were waitin’ on over Saturday, right about closin’ time.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mmm.” Tillie straightened and gave Annabelle a long once-over. “And did he have a nice time prayin’ at church with you yesterday?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Resisting the urge to roll her eyes, Annie nodded. “Yes, Ma’am, he did. As you know very well. I’m sure Miss Adeline filled you in at your Sunday card game.” She arched a brow at the older woman, waiting for the questions to come. She had no doubt speculation about her and Richie’s weekend activities had been the hot topic at the Darien Ladies’ Bridge Club.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“And how ‘bout after church? You two didn’t stay to help clean up after lunch.” Tillie gave Annie a direct look. “Guess you had somewhere to go?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“We went home. I had my chores to do. And Richie was getting’ tired of everybody starin’ at him and whisperin’ behind his back.” Annabelle planted her hands on her hips and gave Tillie a defiant little smirk.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, can’t blame folks.” Tillie wiped her hands on her apron. “You two givin’ ‘em plenty to talk about, apparently.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“What’s that supposed to mean?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Tillie moved past Annie, toward the coffee pot. “Well, it ain’t like you two were home watchin’ the TV on Saturday night.” She slid a cup and saucer from the line at the back of the counter and picked up the pot. She slowly poured a cup, then turned to give her God-daughter a questioning look.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah, so? We went to Ruby Mae’s. You know I go there on Saturday nights.” Annie waited for Tillie’s disapproving response, but none came. “What’s so interestin’ about that, that’s got the town all buzzin’?” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Tillie took a sip of her coffee before calmly replying. “You don’t usually go there with some long-haired, guitar-playin’ Yankee Boy.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“And? It’s not like everybody in town didn’t already know Richie’s entire life story by the time we got to Ruby Mae’s.” Annie couldn’t keep the thick sarcasm from her response. She snorted derisively. As much as she loved the people in this little town, sometimes their nosiness drove her crazy.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i>And.</i>” Tillie gave Annabelle a stern look. “From the sounds of things you were mighty friendly with each other.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie threw her hands up in exasperation. Her honey-blonde curls bounced with the quick shake of her head. “Oh, <i>Hell</i>, Miss Tillie… we were just <i>dancin’</i> together.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annabelle, language.” Tillie warned.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Ignoring her scold, Annie continued. “God <i>forbid </i>a <i>grown</i> man and a <i>grown </i>woman go out and have a good time dancin’ and drinkin’ and listenin’ to music on a Saturday night!”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annabelle!” Tillie’s second warning was sharp. “Don’t you get fussy with me. I’m just sayin’ what I heard.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie exhaled noisily in frustration. “Sorry. This just makes me <i>crazy</i>. I suppose Richie and I were doin’ more than just dancin', according to what you heard?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Tillie allowed a little smirk to crack her serious demeanor. While she wasn’t wild about the Girl spending time at a rough place like Ruby Mae’s, she had been secretly happy to hear Annabelle had gone there in Richie’s company. Even if he was a stranger, Tillie was reasonably sure Richie would let no harm come to Annie if things got a little out of hand at that place.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why, were you?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s lips parted with a little gasp of surprise, then pressed into a firm line. She was just ready to fire off her denial when she saw the little twinkle in Miss Tillie’s blue eyes. She realized she had answered the woman’s question with her reaction. Despite her annoyance, she smiled. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, Miss Tillie… this town’s gonna believe what they want, so what I did or didn’t do doesn’t really matter, now does it?” Annie crossed her arms over her chest and gave her gold curls a defiant toss.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>“I</i> heard what that Hippie Boy was doin’ out at Ruby Mae’s with Annie.” Otis’ grinning ebony face appeared in the kitchen order window. His deep brown eyes twinkled merrily. “I hear Hippie Boy was burnin’ it <i>UP </i>with the Band.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Grateful for the interruption, Annie turned to smile at Otis. “Now <i>that </i>is true.” Annie wagged a finger at Tillie. “And that’s from a <i>reliable </i>source.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Don’t you shake no finger at me, Young Lady,” Tillie warned good-naturedly. “And how do <i>you</i> know where Otis heard that?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie turned back to the cook, her face now lit with a smile. “Sammy told you, didn’t he?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“He sho’ did. Said Richie borrowed his guitar and stood up wit' the band. And <i>WHOOOO</i>! Did Hippie Boy <i>PLAY</i>!” Otis shook his head to accent his exclamation. “Sammy said was like Richie ‘been playin’ with them all along.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie nodded excitedly. “And he sang, too. Oh, Otis… his <i>voice.</i> It’s just <i>amazin’</i>. He sang 'Johnny Be Goode' and 'House of the Risin’ Sun'.” She sighed dreamily, recalling the fiery flush of desire that had raced through her at the sound of Richie’s soulful voice.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah, Sammy said he was good, that Hippie Boy.” Otis chuckled at Annie’s swooning. “We oughta sign him up to the Church choir. Bet he could sing him some Gospel.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled, the vision of Richie in a white choir robe popping into her mind. “Yeah, he’d be great. ‘Specially at your Church. Think your kinda hymns are a little more to his likin’.” She sighed again. “But I betcha I can talk him into joinin’ <i>our </i>choir. Miss Adeline says we need more men, and his voice is so strong…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Tillie cut her off. “What do you mean, talk Richie into joinin’ the choir? Ain’t he goin’ home soon as Eddie gets him fixed up?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-83249776058996012982011-09-09T21:00:00.001-04:002011-09-09T21:00:02.815-04:00Chapter 28<div class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p>Annabelle raised her head to glance at Richie.<span> </span>She saw he was still staring at her, his mouth open and bewilderment painting his handsome face.<span> </span>She felt a wave of shame sweep through her, dampening the want that still simmered in her core.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Jesus, what was she doing?<span> </span>Why the Hell was she letting this bother her <i>now?<span> </span></i>Of all the lovers she had had, Richie was the one who made her feel bold, free, wild, uninhibited… and safe.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">So why the Hell did she just get a sudden attack of modesty?</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie… I….” Richie tried again to engage.<span> </span>“What… did… did I do something… wrong?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie sighed heavily.<span> </span>“No.<span> </span>God, no, Richie.<span> </span>It’s not you.<span> </span>It’s… me.”<span> </span>She gave him a weak smile.<span> </span>“I’m sorry.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“But… Uh… I don’t get it.” Richie raised a hand to scratch his head.<span> </span>“I thought we were having a good time.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“We were.<span> </span>We <i>are</i>…” Annabelle felt her cheeks heat again with shame, as much for how unfair she was being to Richie as for her own embarrassment.<span> </span>She took a deep breath.<span> </span>“Sorry.<span> </span>Hey…”<span> </span>Annie gave Richie a half-hearted attempt at a sexy smile.<span> </span>“Let me make it up to you.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Pushing herself up to sit, Annie scooted down on the bed beside Richie.<span> </span>He jumped when he felt her hand on his lap, her fingers curling around his still-ready cock.<span> </span>Richie gasped with surprise and gave Annie another wide-eyed stare.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“But… Annie…” he protested weakly.<span> </span>“We were gonna take our time… I was gonna…”<span> </span>Richie watched Annabelle drop her eyes again to his lap, a sheepish little smile turning her mouth as her cheeks darkened in the moonlight.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Suddenly he understood.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie…” Richie’s hand closed around hers on his dick.<span> </span>He grunted softly when it throbbed in protest.<span> </span>“Are you… um…” Richie fidgeted a little, not quite knowing how to say it without embarrassing her further.<span> </span>“Didn’t you… want me to… uh… go… uh… down <i>there</i>?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle didn’t answer.<span> </span>She just let out a little breath.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie could hardly believe it.<span> </span>The way Annie was acting was so out of character for the woman he had come to know.<span> </span>She was bold, self-assured, adventurous, and <i>way</i> naughtier than he had ever imagined her to be.<span> </span>Hell, last night she had drank and smoked grass with him, <i>literally</i> dared him to fuck her, then rode him like a Cowgirl under the wide-open Georgia sky.<span> </span>And then this morning… she teased him in <i>church </i>for fuck’s sake… and blew him on the front porch…</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Despite his bewilderment Richie smirked slightly.<span> </span>He felt bad for Annie, but he found her modesty almost sweet.<span> </span>Ill-timed and frustrating, but sweet.<span> </span>And just maybe this was something he could help <i>her</i> with, after all the help she had given him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie…”<span> </span>Richie gently removed her hand from his cock, then laced his fingers between hers and pulled their twined hands to his chest.<span> </span>“You don’t have to be embarrassed.<span> </span>I just… I didn’t… know.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie shrugged and settled onto her side, bending her arm to prop up her head.<span> </span>Her gaze rested on her hand, twined with Richie’s, as she chuckled half-heartedly.<span> </span>“I know.<span> </span>It’s stupid.” She looked up, her eyes meeting his as she smiled sheepishly.<span> </span>“But we don’t have to stop.<span> </span>I still want you, Richie.”<span> </span>She chuckled again.<span> </span>“Actually, I <i>really </i>want you.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Baby, I want you too,” Richie replied earnestly.<span> </span>“But… I just… I want it to be good for you too.<span> </span>As good as it is for me.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie smiled.<span> </span>“Oh, it will be.<span> </span>If last night wasn’t a fluke, anyway.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chuckled, then pulled Annie’s hand to his lips.<span> </span>“It wasn’t. That I can guarantee.”<span> </span>He gave her a cocksure grin, then his smile gentled.<span> </span>“Can I ask you something?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh huh.” Annie nodded, her blonde waves swaying in the moonlight.<span> </span>“Go ahead.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie gave Annabelle what he hoped was a sincere look.<span> </span>“Have you <i>ever</i> had… had a guy… go down on you?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie felt warmth rush to her cheeks again but she held Richie’s gaze.<span> </span>“Actually… yeah.<span> </span>Once.”<span> </span>She felt Richie’s hand tighten around hers in a gentle squeeze.<span> </span>Reassured by the little gesture, Annie took a deep breath and continued.<span> </span>“The summer after high school.<span> </span>It was… uh…” She paused and sighed.<span> </span>“God, Richie.<span> </span>I don’t know why this is so embarrassin’ for me.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Just say it, Annie.<span> </span>I won’t laugh.<span> </span>Promise.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie regarded Richie for a moment before sighing again.<span> </span>“Okay.<span> </span>It was a guy I’d been seein’ for awhile, most of senior year.<span> </span>He always wanted to… uh… go ‘Down South’. <span> </span>I would never let him.” <span> </span>She smiled sheepishly.<span> </span>“I may be a modern girl, but I was brought up by a proper church-goin’ Southern Lady. <span> </span>And doin’ <i>that</i> ain’t proper.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie had to fight to stifle a chuckle at Annie’s choice of words.<span> </span>No, “proper” was definitely not a word anyone would use to describe muff-diving.<span> </span>Of that Richie was certain.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh… okay.<span> </span>So it was kinda like… guilt, huh?” Richie gave Annie a little grin.<span> </span>“I get that. I’m Catholic, for fuck’s sake.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled.<span> </span>“Yeah, I guess so.<span> </span>Maybe ‘guilt’ is a little too strong a word, though.”<span> </span>Her nose crinkled as she grimaced.<span> </span>“It’s just… just so <i>dirty</i>.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah, but… That’s what makes it so <i>good</i>.”<span> </span>Richie’s grin softened.<span> </span>“I mean… it’s so… like… intimate, ya know?<span> </span>It’s like a privilege or somethin’, when a girl lets a guy do that.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie couldn’t hold Richie’s gaze as she felt another flush of shame paint her cheeks.<span> </span>“Well… maybe.”<span> </span>She dropped her eyes to their clasped hands and wiggled her fingers against Richie’s chest, not really knowing how to counter Richie’s argument.<span> </span>Or if she wanted to.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“So, you finally let this guy do it, and… You didn’t like it?”<span> </span>Richie couldn’t help but cut to the chase.<span> </span>He didn’t want to embarrass Annabelle further, but he was getting impatient.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie shook her head.<span> </span>“No.”<span> </span>She chuckled quietly. <span> </span>“Now mind you, I’m <i>all</i> for some good foreplay.<span> </span>What you were doin’ to me earlier, strokin’ me…” Annie purred softly, then gave Richie a shy smile.<span> </span>“And I’m no prude.<span> </span>Ya know, sometimes it’s a good long time between boyfriends and… Well, a Girl’s got needs.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie couldn’t hold back a chuckle at that.<span> </span>Annie had obviously relaxed a little; her humor had returned.<span> </span>“Yeah, I know.<span> </span>Guys got even more needs than Girls do.<span> </span>Like <i>daily </i>needs.”<span> </span>Richie grinned self-depricatingly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled.<span> </span>“Yeah, well… Anyway.<span> </span>I finally figured ‘Well, Hell.<span> </span>It supposedly feels really good, and if I just don’t watch, just get caught up in the moment… well, I’ll be happy, he’ll be happy. It’s a win-win, right?’ “</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sounds like it to me.<span> </span>But it didn’t work out that way?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.<span> </span>Most <i>certainly</i> not.”<span> </span>Annie’s firm tone made Richie stifle another chuckle.<span> </span>“It was awful.<span> </span>And uncomfortable.<span> </span>He just was too… Well, too… hard, or fast, or eager, or somethin’.”<span> </span>She blew out a frustrated little sigh.<span> </span>“And I just… I just don’t like…”<span> </span>Annie paused, then gave Richie a little grin.<span> </span>“Gawd, I can’t believe I’m tellin’ you this.<span> </span>I just didn’t like that guy nosin’ around down there.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie couldn’t help himself.<span> </span>He snorted a laugh at Annabelle’s choice of words.<span> </span>Almost immediately he gave her a guilty grin.<span> </span>“I’m sorry.<span> </span><i>Really</i>… I’m not laughing at you.<span> </span>It’s just…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle giggled softly and pushed at Richie’s chest with their joined hands.<span> </span>“I <i>know</i>, I know.<span> </span>S’okay.”<span> </span>Her smile gentled.<span> </span>“So anyway, now that you think I’m crazy, that’s that.<span> </span>And I <i>am</i> sorry, Richie.<span> </span>I didn’t mean to ruin the moment.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s smile softened as he gave Annie’s hand another squeeze.<span> </span>“So that guy.<span> </span>The one that was really bad at… that.<span> </span>Did you like him much?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie shrugged. <span> </span>“He's okay.<span> </span>Nice enough.<span> </span>I’ve known him forever, still see him now and again.<span> </span>But I wasn’t exactly interested in spendin’ the rest of my life with him.<span> </span>Why?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Because.”<span> </span>Richie dropped his gaze to their joined hands, pausing for a beat.<span> </span>His lips pursed thoughtfully before he looked back up at Annabelle.<span> </span>“Maybe the problem wasn’t <i>you.</i><span> </span>Maybe it was the guy.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s blue eyes widened as she heard the persuasive note in Richie’s tone.<span> </span>She shook her head slightly.<span> </span>“Naw, I don’t think so… I just… well...”<span> </span>Her husky voice trailed off as she realized she couldn’t really explain her hangup over this particular act.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You said he… it… was uncomfortable.”<span> </span>Richie felt his pulse quicken a tic as he saw Annie’s hesitance.<span> </span>She could have flatly closed the topic, but he could almost see the wheels turning in her pretty head as she considered his words.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Suddenly Richie wanted more than anything for Annabelle to let him show her how it <i>should</i> be done, to erase her guilt or modesty or fear or what the Hell ever she had about being on the receiving end of oral sex.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s lips curled into a persuasive smirk.<span> </span>He knew he could open Annie up to a whole new plane of pleasure.<span> </span>After all, if there was <i>one</i> thing he was good at besides playing guitar, it was eating pussy. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie gave Annie’s hand a little squeeze before he began to pull it slowly down his torso, their fingers still entwined.<span> </span>“Just maybe…” His voice had lowered to a silky croon.<span> </span>“Maybe this… <i>Boy</i>… didn’t know what he was doing.”<span> </span>He felt his abs clench as the back of Annie’s hand brushed over his navel, then bumped against his head.<span> </span>He swallowed his quiet gasp at the contact.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The husky timbre of Richie’s voice drew Annie’s gaze to his face.<span> </span>Her lips parted in a silent gasp when she saw his soulful brown eyes shining in the dim light.<span> </span>His knowing smile sent a little tingle of nervous anticipation through her core.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I…” Annie could barely whisper, hypnotized by Richie’s expression.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Gently Richie untangled his fingers from Annie’s, nudging her hand a bit toward his groin in the process.<span> </span>He bit back another little groan as his cock jumped at the contact.<span> </span>Turning his hand over, Richie traced his touch around Annie’s navel, then downward. <span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie… do you trust me?”<span> </span>A long finger slipped through her curls and between her slickened folds.<span> </span>Richie felt another surge through his groin at her damp warmth.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh!” Annie gasped softly, her breasts lifting with the abrupt<span> </span>exhalation.<span> </span>“I… yes…” <span> </span>Annie’s fingertips curled against Richie’s groin, tangling in the wiry curls there.<span> </span>She saw the question repeated in Richie’s smoldering gaze.<span> </span>“Yes, Richie.<span> </span>I… I trust you.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay.”<span> </span>Richie’s slow stroke reached the hardened little bud of her womanhood.<span> </span>He watched Annie’s lashes flutter as he circled her clit, then slipped his fingertip downward again.<span> </span>“This feels good, yeah?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeeessss….” Annie breathed.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie leaned forward to brush his mouth over hers.<span> </span>“Trust me, Annie…” he breathed against the kiss before moving his lips to her shoulder.<span> </span>He gave her warm skin a gentle nip before pushing himself up on his elbow.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie watched him, her eyes wide and swirling midnight with arousal.<span> </span>Again she felt a little flush of shame as she realized Richie’s intent.<span> </span>She swallowed hard, shoving her embarrassment aside.<span> </span>When Richie withdrew his hand from between her thighs she sucked in a deep breath before allowing him to guide her onto her back with a gentle push at her hip.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Relax, Baby,” Richie crooned.<span> </span>He hoped he sounded calm and soothing, since inside his heart was racing with excitement and his pulse was pounding in his head.<span> </span>The last thing he wanted to do was make Annie nervous now, as he was coaxing her to let go of her inhibitions.<span> </span>“Trust me.” <span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Shifting downward on the mattress so that his hip was on the lower edge, Richie dropped his mouth to Annabelle’s hip.<span> </span>He sucked lightly at its point before trailing a lighter line of kisses across her pelvis, tracing the line where the lacy band of her panties had lain.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle moaned softly at the warmth of Richie’s lips on her sensitive skin.<span> </span>Again she felt a spike of nerves as Richie’s soft hair trailed across her hip while his mouth traversed her lower abdomen.<span> </span>Her hands curved into a half-clench as she fought the urge to tangle her fingers in Richie’s mane and stop his delicious torture before it went too far.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Trust me, Annie…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With a soft snort of frustration Annie raised her hands to tangle in her own hair, depriving them of the chance to interfere.<span> </span>She heard Richie’s soft chortle as he pulled his mouth from her skin, then she felt the mattress shift as he slid off its edge to kneel on the floor.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, God…” Annie breathed.<span> </span>The utterance was as much a repent as it was a sigh of pleasure. Her womb clenched in anticipation of Richie’s next move.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie paused for a moment, kneeling at the foot of the bed.<span> </span>His eyes swept hungrily over Annabelle’s beautiful naked body.<span> </span>She looked absolutely delicious, her long lashes closed against her cheeks, her soft hair glinting gold in the moonlight, her creamy breasts cresting and falling with her quick, shallow breaths.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He knew she would taste even more luscious than she looked.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">As if in response to his thoughts, Annie shifted on the bed, pulling her thighs closer together.<span> </span>Richie smirked at her reaction.<span> </span>She wouldn’t be in that position for long.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Jesus, Annie… you’re so damned beautiful…” Richie’s soft voice carried a soothing, almost musical note as he raised his hands to rest lightly on her knees.<span> </span>Gently he slid his touch up her thighs, his fingers curling to the insides of her legs.<span> </span>Richie watched Annie’s full lips part with her soft gasp as his calloused fingertips inched higher.<span> </span>Her eyes remained closed though her expression betrayed her arousal.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie sank into his kneel to place his lips against the inside of Annabelle’s thigh.<span> </span>“Baby, I’m gonna make you feel <i>so</i> good…” he crooned against her skin.<span> </span>As he licked at her flesh he pushed gently against her knees, urging her to open further to him.<span> </span>With a little whimper Annabelle responded.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“God, yeah…. There you go…” Richie purred in response.<span> </span>He shifted again on his knees, standing up a little more as his mouth traveled higher up Annie’s thigh.<span> </span>As he turned his head to give attention to its twin, Richie’s shaft pressed against the side of the mattress.<span> </span>He groaned as he felt a little surge of moisture at the impact.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie realized he was so aroused by what was about to happen he could barely control his cock.<span> </span>He hoped fervently he didn’t lose that battle and blow his load before he was able to finish Annie off.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie…” Annabelle sighed hoarsely as she felt his soft hair brush over her thighs.<span> </span>She squirmed a little at the tickle, but the sensation was quickly replaced by the warm pressure of Richie’s mouth moving over the flesh of her thighs.<span> </span>“Oh… Oh <i>God</i>…”<span> </span>Annabelle’s fists tightened in her hair.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The breathy pitch of Annie’s soft moan excited Richie even more.<span> </span>He sucked a little harder at her thigh as his dick throbbed again against the side of the bed.<span> </span>He could smell her, he could taste her on her own skin.<span> </span>Richie raised his head just enough to look up, across Annie’s supine body and between the mounds of her breasts to her beautiful face.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle felt Richie’s mouth leave her skin, and his movement still.<span> </span>Despite herself she slowly opened her eyes and looked down her body at him, wondering what he was doing.<span> </span>Her heart skipped when she saw him gazing back at her, an expression of pure passion painting his handsome features.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Baby… Trust me.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie stared at Richie for a moment, then felt another wave radiate through her body.<span> </span>But this time it wasn’t nerves or shame or even passion… it was calm.<span> </span>It was as if Richie’s husky command had soothed her at this most delicate moment, the one she feared.<span> </span>Annabelle’s fingers relaxed in her hair, letting the thick tendrils slip from her grasp.<span> </span>Her eyes not leaving Richie’s face, she pushed herself up to her elbows and gazed back at him for a long moment.<span> </span>Then she nodded before her whisper.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her look, her word, her beauty, her breath…<span> </span>they set Richie aflame.<span> </span>He sucked in a deep breath and leaned hard against the mattress as his dick surged mightily.<span> </span>Richie’s eyes squinted closed as he held his breath, willing his impending climax to subside, to hold off until he could fulfill his promise to Annabelle.<span> </span>He hadn’t counted on her submission being so fucking sexy.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie?”<span> </span>Her voice was husky, with a faint note of concern.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah…” Richie gasped.<span> </span>“I.. I’m okay.<span> </span>Gimme a minute.”<span> </span>He closed his eyes and breathed deeply, in and out, until he felt the heat in his groin subside a bit.<span> </span>Then Richie forced his eyes open.<span> </span>Annabelle’s face swam into focus, her expression a cross between concern and amusement.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… Sorry.” Richie rasped.<span> </span>“You just look so Goddamned sexy, looking at me like that.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie gave him a demure little smile.<span> </span>“Sorry.<span> </span>You okay?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie gave a quick nod of his head as he felt his balls tighten again.<span> </span>It wouldn’t be long for him.<span> </span>And judging from the darkness of desire in Annabelle’s eyes and the little beads of perspiration shining in the valley between her breasts, it wouldn’t be long for her either.<span> </span>Especially with what he was about to do for her. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Stay there.” Richie commanded softly.<span> </span>“Watch.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s lower lip quivered slightly, then she slowly nodded as she stuffed down one last little pang of embarrassment.<span> </span>“Okay.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie kept his gaze locked with hers as he lowered his face between her thighs.<span> </span>He didn’t have to look; her sweet, musky scent guided him to the place he sought.<span> </span>He saw Annie’s blue eyes widen as his lips parted, then closed over the apex of her downy cleft.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mmmmm….” Richie couldn’t help but groan, his lids drifting closed with pleasure.<span> </span>Her scent and her taste engulfed him, overwhelmed him.<span> </span>He suckled at the damp golden curls in his mouth for a moment before allowing his tongue to press forward, sliding firmly up the tender flesh to the firm little bud at the top.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“OHHH!!!”<span> </span>Annie’s whimper made Richie’s eyes flicker open.<span> </span>But this time her cry was one of pleasure, not of panic.<span> </span>Annie’s hips automatically pulsed forward against Richie’s mouth as again his tongue swiped slowly over her inner flesh.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mmmf… <i>Ammy</i>…” Richie wasn’t willing to pull his mouth from her to fully form his moan.<span> </span>His hands moved to Annabelle’s hips, pushing down, restraining her gently against the bed as his mouth widened to more fully taste her.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He hazily reminded himself to go slow, to take it easy.<span> </span>He wanted to devour her, to satisfy his own hunger, to bury his face in her pussy and smear her sweet juices from ear to ear.<span> </span>But he didn’t want to freak her out like that other guy had done, to make her cut him off again.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">No, this was for Annie, not for him.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle could hardly believe what she was seeing or feeling.<span> </span>She stared, shyly fascinated with the sight of Richie’s mouth on her.<span> </span>It was somehow erotically beautiful, watching Richie’s dark bangs curling over his forehead, his hair fanned across her creamy thighs, and his lush lashes fringing his smooth cheeks just above her own tawny curls.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">And how it<i> felt</i>… A low moan slipped from Annie’s throat as Richie’s tongue swept over her tender flesh in soft, full strokes.<span> </span>It was as if he was burning her womb with each long lick, leaving trails of sparks along the path.<span> </span>Again she tried to buck up against his mouth but found her hips restrained by his big hands.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh… Oh <i>Hell</i>… Oh <i>Richie</i>…”<span> </span>Annie could do little more than pant.<span> </span>She almost cried out when he stopped, raising his face to look at her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay, Baby?”<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie felt her cheeks flush with heat as the moonlight glinted off Richie’s mouth and chin, shiny with her juices.<span> </span>But her blush was mirrored by another jolt of electricity through her core as her pussy protested the sudden cessation of attention.<span> </span>The primal urge quickly overrode the more modest one.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh… oh… <i>Yeah</i>…” Annie breathed, staring back at Richie between the heaving mounds of her breasts, now slick with perspiration. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smirked at her expression.<span> </span>“Feels good, don’t it, Baby?”<span> </span>He lowered his head again, still smirking up at her, to nibble at the moist curls covering her mound.<span> </span>“You taste so fucking good…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie…” Annie’s whine was plaintive as she again pulsed her hips up toward Richie’s mouth, silently begging for more.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chuckled in reply.<span> </span>His hands slid from Annie’s hips down her thighs to her knees.<span> </span>Hooking underneath the joints, Richie firmly pulled Annie’s long legs into a bend, resting her feet on the mattress on either side of his waist.<span> </span>Then he circled her ankles with his hands, pulling them up a bit more as he shifted his kneel beneath her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie fidgeted a bit as she realized her new position opened her even more to Richie’s mouth, making her totally vulnerable to his ministrations.<span> </span>Her unease was quickly forgotten when Richie resumed his task.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh <i>GOD!<span> </span>RICHIE!”</i> A sharp wail of need tore from Annie’s throat as his tongue flickered around her clit, sending fiery fingers of sensation ricocheting through her womb.<span> </span>Annie’s head dropped back as her hips bucked up again, this time restrained only by Richie’s mouth against her.<span> </span>The increase in pressure made Annabelle gasp again.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ohhhh…. <i>Baby…</i>” Richie hummed against Annabelle’s clit, sending a shudder of pleasure up her thighs.<span> </span>“Fuck, Annie… So <i>sweet</i>… So thick…”<span> </span>His voice was a feral growl as his tongue rasped over the length of her, lapping away the increased evidence of her arousal.<span> </span>He felt his cock throbbing with the rhythm of his tongue's strokes.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Wicked arcs of pleasure whipped through Annabelle as she felt her muscles clench in anticipation.<span> </span>She couldn’t wrap her brain around what was happening to her body, how Richie was doing this to her.<span> </span>How he <i>knew </i>how to do this to her.<span> </span>Surely he was possessed of some sort of Dark Magic or VooDoo that gave him this incredible talent.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle felt her arms shaking with fatigue as her back arched in response to another heavy stroke of Richie’s tongue.<span> </span>She let out a strangled moan and collapsed panting onto her back, relieving the pressure on her tired muscles.<span> </span>She gasped when Richie responded to the shift in her position by lifting her legs to hook over his shoulders.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With a rough growl Richie grasped Annabelle’s hips to drag her closer to the edge of the bed.<span> </span>She responded with a breathy whimper.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Baby… you ready?” Richie panted, already knowing the answer.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ye… Yes.<span> </span>God, Richie<i>… Yes</i>!”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie groaned with want as he buried his face between Annabelle’s thighs.<span> </span>He pushed her legs apart, holding them wide as he voraciously consumed her.<span> </span>Her hips jerked against his grip at each rapid circle of his tongue around the pulsing knot of her clit, and her buttocks clenched while her thighs quivered with each long, hard stroke of his tongue over her length.<span> </span>Annabelle let out a strangled cry when Richie’s wicked tongue drove into her aching center, lapping at the thick juices that were now flowing freely from within her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“God, RICHIE!<span> </span>I… I can’t… I can’t take… anymore…” Annie panted.<span> </span>She could no longer stand the torture, couldn’t take another stroke of his wicked tongue….<span> </span>She tried to scream, to demand a cease to the pressure… to beg for quarter…</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her release was cataclysmic.<span> </span>It erupted from deep within, drawing her muscles tight, clenching her thighs around her tormentor’s head with an iron grip.<span> </span>The shockwaves rocked her, rolling through her body like powerful forces of destruction.<span> </span>Behind her closed lids stars exploded in a supernova of indescribable pleasure.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie let out a muffled shout as he was flooded with Annabelle’s climax.<span> </span>The hot, thick, sticky, sweet nectar engulfed him, covered him with reward.<span> </span>He eagerly drank of Annie’s sweetness until he had to come up for air.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Panting heavily, he glanced up at Annie’s face and saw it contorted in a grimace of pure rapture.<span> </span>Her lips were parted as she gasped for oxygen, her chest heaving with every labored breath.<span> </span>Around him, her legs quivered and clenched along with her pussy as the aftershocks of her orgasm continued.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie couldn’t hold on any longer.<span> F</span>ingers of flame raced up his spine as his climax built to explosion.<span> </span>With an urgency born of intense need Richie grabbed Annabelle’s hips and dragged her further up on the mattress, then parted her thighs.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“God, Richie… <i>YES!!!!”</i><span> </span>Annabelle gasped as he plunged inside her, burying his shaft to the hilt.<span> </span>He was already coming as he shoved into her, only managing a trio of powerful thrusts before his orgasm blasted forth. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh.. <i>FUCK!</i><span> </span><i>ANNIE!”</i><span> </span>Richie’s back arched with the intensity of his eruption, his head falling back as his eyes squeezed shut and his face contorted in a fierce scowl of ecstasy.<span> </span>His torso shimmered with sweat and his hair matted to his neck and shoulders.<span> </span>He gasped in a breath then fell forward, catching himself on his braced hands on either side of Annie’s shoulders.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">They panted wordlessly, staring at each other as the clouds of passion slowly cleared from their eyes.<span> </span>Finally Annie smiled weakly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I… God, Richie… I just… Oh.. Oh <i>My</i>.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie laughed raspily at Annie’s incoherent attempt at communication, then slowly pulled away from her.<span> </span>He carefully shifted on the bed to lay beside Annie, one hand propping up his sweaty dark head.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh.. yeah.<span> </span><i>Wow</i>.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie turned her head to give Richie another dazed little smirk.<span> </span>“That was… was… somethin’ <i>else.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie snickered and reached up to brush a damp tendril of honey-blonde hair away from Annie’s cheek.<span> </span>“Liked that, huh?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled hoarsely.<span> </span>“I think you can probably guess the answer to that question.”<span> </span>She drew in and blew out a deep breath.<span> </span>“<i>That</i> was certainly <i>nothin’</i> like I remember.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smirked.<span> </span>“Yeah, well… Gotta have a Man to do a Man’s job, Baby…” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie arched a brow at Richie’s boast.<span> </span>“A man, huh?<span> </span>Ya mean a Man… all of nineteen?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s jaw dropped as he remembered his fib about his age when Annie had given him a ride into town.<span> </span>Shit.<span> </span>How did she find out about that?<span> </span>He grinned sheepishly.<span> </span>“Uh… well, yeah.<span> </span>But I’m almost twenty.<span> </span>In a couple weeks.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie gave Richie a faux-stern look, then smiled.<span> </span>“Well, then.<span> </span>I guess that’s okay.”<span> </span>She giggled at her tease.<span> </span>“ ‘Sides.<span> </span>You know stuff full-grown men don’t even know.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie grinned and leaned down to give Annie’s cheek a nuzzle before brushing a light kiss across her mouth.<span> </span>He noticed her wince slightly as she realized he still had her taste on his lips.<span> </span>“Hmm.<span> </span>Maybe I’ll have to do that again, then, huh?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Maybe.”<span> </span>Annie and Richie gazed at each other for a long moment, sharing a sweet smile.<span> </span>Then Richie spoke, softly and earnestly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie, I’ll make love to you every night, if you want.”<span> </span>His hand moved to her stomach, tracing the little dimple of her navel with a gentle fingertip.<span> </span>He gave her a mischievous grin.<span> </span>“And twice on Sundays.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie returned Richie’s smile even as her heart squeezed at his words.<span> </span>He still wanted to stay here in Darien.<span> </span>“That sounds like a plan,” she said softly.<span> </span>“But... but what about… your music?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“What about it?”<span> </span>Richie watched his hand, circling lazily on Annie’s flat belly.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well… You were pretty into your writin’ and playin’ earlier…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie raised his eyes to meet Annabelle’s.<span> </span>“Yeah?” he replied, not understanding her meaning.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, I just thought maybe you… you may be thinkin’ about givin’ music another try.<span> </span>You know, working at it?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shrugged and returned his gaze to his hand.<span> </span>“Dunno.<span> </span>Maybe someday.” He smiled wistfully.<span> </span>“Hell, Annie.<span> </span>I just figured out how to write again.<span> </span>That don’t<span> </span>hardly make me a candidate for a music career.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, it’s a start.”<span> </span>Annie reached up to trace a finger along Richie’s jaw.<span> </span>“And you love it, right?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded and turned his smile back to Annie.<span> </span>“Yeah.<span> </span>And I love…” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He hesitated, his mouth hanging open as he realized what he was about to say.<span> </span>“I.. I have you to thank, Annie.”<span> </span>Richie’s smile turned wistful as he flattened his palm against her belly. <span> </span>“You inspire me.<span> </span>You’re my Muse.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s heart skipped a beat as she realized what Richie had left unsaid.<span> </span>Just last night he had told her he loved her.<span> </span>Even if it had been in the afterglow of sex and weed, he had said it.<span> </span>And now…<span> </span>Now he had avoided those three little words.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie knew she should be relieved.<span> </span>But the stab of disappointment in her gut told her she really wasn’t. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Um… well, I’m glad.”<span> </span>Annie mustered a smile, pushing aside her silly emotion.<span> </span>“Maybe someday you’ll get all famous and I can tell everybody I know that some big Rock Star wrote a song about me.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie grinned.<span> </span>“Yeah.<span> </span>Hell, maybe I’ll write one about tonight.<span> </span>About me showing you the Ways of Love.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Don’t you dare!” Annabelle slapped playfully at Richie’s arm as she giggled at his dirty leer.<span> </span>“<i>That</i> ain’t no topic for a song.”<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sure it is!<span> </span>Hell, lotsa songs are about sex.” Richie countered playfully.<span> </span>“In fact…”<span> </span>Suddenly he stopped.<span> </span>“Oh, Shit!”<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“What?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie abruptly sat up and swung his legs over the side of the bed.<span> </span>“My guitar.<span> </span>I left it outside.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Huh?”<span> </span>Annie pushed herself up onto her elbows.<span> </span>“Oh.<span> </span>I’m sure it’s fine.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie stood and strode around the end of the bed.<span> </span>He leaned down to pluck his wadded up jeans from the floor, then sat on the edge of the bed.<span> </span>“Yeah, but I can’t leave it out there all night.<span> </span>It’ll get wet, warp the wood.”<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He shoved first one leg, then the other into his jeans, then stood and fastened the waist.<span> </span>He turned and gave Annie a little smile before leaning down to give her a soft kiss.<span> </span>“I’m just gonna go get it, bring it inside, ‘kay?<span> </span>Be right back.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Alright.”<span> </span>Annie watched Richie make his way around the bed and to the door.<span> Then s</span>he listened as he traversed the little hallway, crossed the living room, and pushed through the screen door.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Letting out a little sigh, Annie fell back against the mattress and stared up at the ceiling.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He hadn’t said he loved her.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But he still wanted to stay in Darien.<span> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">And tomorrow his car would be fixed.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle tried for a few long minutes to sort through the thoughts swirling around in her brain.<span> </span>Finally she gave up and rolled onto her stomach, pulling a pillow beneath her chest and cradling her chin on her folded arms.<span> </span>She gazed at the window, watching the curtains stir in the breeze and the moonlight shining on the yard beyond the porch.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She wanted him to stay too.<span> </span>The thought of making a life with Richie, of sharing her days and nights with him, was a beautiful dream.<span> </span>One that could easily become reality.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But she couldn’t tell Richie that.<span> </span>This wasn’t where he was meant to be.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She had to let him go, to <i>make</i> him go.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Somehow.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie heard Richie’s footsteps on the steps and the porch.<span> </span>She held her breath as they hesitated, then continued.<span> </span>Her brow furrowed in puzzlement when she didn’t hear the screen door.<span> </span>When Richie’s shadowy form passed by her window she realized what he was doing.<span> </span>The creak of the porch swing’s chains confirmed her suspicion.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Seconds later she heard a gentle melody and a soft voice.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>I never knew what love was<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>‘Til I met that Georgia Peach<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Even though a woman like her<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Seemed so outta reach...<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Turning her head to rest her cheek on her pillow, Annie sighed. <span> </span></div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-85580969774351489722011-09-02T21:00:00.004-04:002011-09-02T21:00:00.103-04:00Chapter 27<div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s pulse raced as Annabelle led him up the front porch steps, through the screen door, and into the living room. Pausing just inside the front door, Annie released Richie’s hand and stepped away from him, over to lift the lid on the stereo cabinet in the corner. Richie took a deep breath as he watched her, trying to calm his surging anticipation.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A quiet click was followed by soft music, then Annie straightened and turned to smile at Richie. She held out her hand again, her blue eyes glowing in the dusky moonlight that flooded through the picture window. “C’mon,” she invited quietly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie swallowed hard and reached out to take Annie’s offered hand. His smile mirrored hers as together they moved across the room and down the little hall. Richie paused at the threshold of Annie’s bedroom, tugging lightly at her hand.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie turned to him, puzzlement in her gaze. “Richie?” His name on her husky voice was an uncertain question.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“It’s okay.” Richie’s reply was soft. “Just…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He tugged again at Annie’s hand as he stepped close to her. His free hand settled on her hip as he smiled down at Annie before lowering his mouth to hers. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s whole body flushed with warmth as Annie responded to his kiss. Her body arched toward his as her arms slipped to encircle his waist. She sighed against his mouth, a meek whimper of anticipation slipping from her throat. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie responded in kind, moaning softly as he pushed her back, pinning her to the paneled wall. They gasped in unison as her soft curves yielded to his taut muscles.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, Richie…” Annie slid her mouth from his, her head tipping back as she felt Richie’s lips move along her jaw and to her throat. “I… <i>God…</i>” She pulled in a breath and tried again. “We… we got all night…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">It took a second for the meaning of her words to penetrate his brain. Then Richie groaned before gently nipping Annabelle’s delicious throat. “Yeah…” he sighed, half to himself. “Sorry. I… I’m just a little… excited.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly and brushed her lips across Richie’s. “Me too. But I wanna take our time. Savor it.” She giggled again. You know, since we’re not gonna get interrupted here.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chortled quietly. “Yeah, guess not. Ain’t like we’re out in the open, hiding out in the woods or something.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Like last night,” Annie finished for him. She gave him a little smirk, her eyes sparkling. “And tonight we’re stone-cold sober.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie grinned. “You say that like it’s a bad thing.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Not at all.” Annie giggled again at his tease. “This time I’ll know for sure I’m not dreamin’ or hallucinatin’ or somethin’.” Her smirk softened. “That it’s all real.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s smile faded as he gave Annie an earnest look. “It’s <i>all</i> real, Annie. How you make me feel…” His voice dropped to a husky whisper as again his lips lowered to hers. “How I want to make <i>you</i> feel…” Richie pressed his body hard against Annabelle’s as they shared another breathless kiss.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie whimpered needfully against Richie’s mouth as she felt his hands slide roughly over her buttocks, to the tops of her thighs. Arching her back to push her hips hard against against his, Annie pulled her arms from around Richie’s waist. She snaked them around his neck just before Richie lifted her, his mouth not leaving hers. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie gasped and wrapped her legs around Richie’s waist as he pushed her harder against the wall, their kiss turning fierce. Her whimper turned to a hoarse moan as she flushed with wet heat at the feel of Richie’s cock surging against her crotch. Richie responded instinctively to her heightened arousal, his hips thrusting forward to intensify the contact. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ri… Richie…” Annie panted, pulling her mouth from his. “We… we got…” The rest of her reminder died on her lips as she struggled to control her breathing.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie froze, then drew in and blew out a long, shuddering breath. “I know… I know…” he replied weakly, nodding his agreement. “Okay…” His hands curved under the globes of Annie’s ass as he leaned away from the wall, lifting her. Annabelle clung to Richie as he turned and carried her carefully through the door to her bedroom, moving slowly in the near-darkness.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">When he bumped against the side of her bed, Richie wobbled slightly. He stood still for a moment, letting his vision adjust to the dim light. His heart continued to race as he felt Annabelle’s warm body quivering in his arms and her breath in his ear. He turned his head to press a kiss into her soft hair before leaning forward, slowly lowering her onto the mattress.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie sighed as she settled onto the bed, loosening her arms around Richie’s neck and scooting over to make room for him beside her. She felt the mattress dip with his weight, then again his mouth covered hers. This time the kiss was slow and deliberate, filled with barely-restrained passion. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chuckled softly when their lips parted and Richie let out a long breath. He rested a hand on her abdomen between the waist of her cutoffs and the knot of her tied-up shirt, making her bare skin tingle. A surge of warmth radiated through her core at his touch. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You okay?” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded. “It’s dark in here,” he commented distractedly, gulping in another deep breath. He was trying his hardest to keep his body under control, to resist the powerful urge to rip Annie’s clothes off her body and jump on her. Like Annabelle, Richie truly wanted to take his time and fully enjoy every beautiful second of their lovemaking. But his cock didn’t want to hear from his brain at the moment.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I can open the curtains.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded again. “I got it.” He took another deep breath before sitting up, then standing. He carefully shuffled around the foot of the bed to the small window on the wall opposite the door. When he reached up to push aside the curtains and raise the shade moonlight streamed through the little rectangle, illuminating the room with a silvery glow.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie heard the creak of springs as Annabelle shifted on the bed. He turned around to find her smiling invitingly back at him. She had scooted to the center of the mattress and was now reclining against the pillows, her golden hair fanned out around her head and shining like a halo in the moonlight.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s mouth curved into a gentle smile. “That’s better.” He stepped closer to the bed. “You look beautiful.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Thank you, Handsome.” Annie’s eyes glowed sapphire in the soft light as she giggled quietly. “You’d look even <i>more </i>handsome without those clothes, ya know.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie grinned. “Well, you’re beautiful with or with<i>out </i>your clothes,” he flirted gallantly. Then he chuckled. “But if you want me outta mine…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie laughed, then gave Richie a sultry come-hither pout as she arched her back, making the unbuttoned front of her shirt gap a little wider to expose her cleavage. “You first.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay.” In a quick movement Richie stripped off his tee and dropped it on the floor. His hands went to the waist of his jeans and rapidly undid the button and zipper, then he shoved the denim downward. He kicked free of the jeans then stood naked, smiling down at Annabelle.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled at Richie’s eagerness as her eyes slid appreciatively over his body. She felt another tightening of her womb at the sight of his tautly-muscled form, her body eager to feel his on top of and inside her. “Guess it’s my turn now, huh?” She pushed herself up onto her elbows.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No. Let me.” The playful note was gone from Richie’s voice, replaced by gentle huskiness. “Lay back.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s eyes widened slightly, then she silently obeyed. A little smirk of anticipation turned the corners of her mouth as she waited.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie stood motionless for a moment, steeling his resolve as he let his eyes travel over Annie’s body. Though he had enjoyed his fair share of women, he didn’t often have the opportunity or ambition to use his partner’s body as an erotic playground. Usually he was too focused on his own needs to worry about much more than the main attractions. But tonight he had the chance to play, and he wanted to take Annie on <i>all</i> the rides.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie snorted a quiet chuckle at his carnival analogy, then he slowly leaned forward. His gaze locked with Annie’s as Richie crawled slowly onto the bed beside her. He chortled softly again when he heard her soft gasp of anticipation and saw her pupils dilate with desire.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie settled on his hip beside Annabelle, giving her a long stare before reaching up to trace a fingertip down the vee of bare skin exposed by her open shirt. Automatically Annie arched toward his hand, involuntarily sucking in a breath as his touch traveled down the valley between her breasts.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“So beautiful…” Richie murmured reverently as his gaze followed his hand’s movement, back upward toward Annie’s delicate throat. He nudged at the soft chambray shirt’s plackets, exposing the firm creamy swells of first one breast, then the other. Only the tie above her navel prevented him from uncovering her dusky nipples, visibly erect under the pale fabric.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s fingers moved to the knotted shirttails at her waist. He tugged gently at one end before trying to work his index finger into the tight twist. He was momentarily distracted by Annie’s delicious navel as her abdomen contracted under his workings, then he realized the task of undoing the knot would take both his hands.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With a snort of mild frustration Richie pushed himself up onto his hip, his own taut abs clenching as he balanced himself. His freed second hand joined the first to tug the knot loose. Annie giggled softly at the tickle of Richie’s fingers against her stomach, then purred when he lowered his mouth to nibble playfully at her bellybutton.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie…” Annie sighed as she felt his lips move lower, suckling at the warm flesh below her navel. “Whatcha doin’ down there?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s chuckle rumbled against her skin. “Just having a little taste.” His lips moved back up to again cover her bellybutton, his long hair tickling her sides as it hung down in a dark curtain around his face. Annie couldn’t resist reaching up to stroke it before tucking the silky strands back behind Richie’s ear.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie raised his face from Annie’s belly to give her a sexy grin. “You taste as delicious as you look.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“So do you,” Annie smirked back.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shifted again, returning to his recline beside Annie, propped up on one elbow. He brushed a soft kiss across her lips as with one hand he covered both of hers, now folded across her bared abdomen where his mouth had just been. “Here,” he directed in a husky murmur, squeezing her top hand and pulling it gently away from her body. He guided it up to her pillow, resting it palm-up beside her head before repeating the action with her other hand. Richie gave Annabelle a long gaze to see if she understood what he wanted. “Okay?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay,” Annie whispered, her arms remaining in their surrender pose. A little shiver ran down her spine as she realized she was relinquishing control to Richie, silently agreeing to let him do with her as he wished. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The shiver repeated as Annie watched Richie raise his hand again, this time to gently push apart the now-freed halves of her blouse. At the same time he lowered his lips to hover over hers, in a whispering tease of a kiss. Annie gasped against Richie’s mouth as the smooth pad of his thumb brushed over her sensitive bare nipple.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Relax, Darlin’…” Richie murmured, rolling his thumb back and forth across the erect nub. His dick twitched excitedly at Annie’s reaction, but he was determined to keep himself under control. He wanted to concentrate on her pleasure first. Then he would take his turn. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh… <i>God</i>, Richie…” Annie breathed, her eyes fluttering closed as she smirked with delight. “That feels <i>so</i> good…” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I know it does…” Richie whispered in agreement, his hand moving to her other breast and repeating the action. He smiled as he watched Annie’s expression, her little winces of pleasure at each flick of his thumb making his groin throb in response. He couldn’t help but sidle a little closer to Annie on the bed, so that his rigid cock rested against the smooth skin of her thigh. Annie let out a little purr of acknowledgement as she felt him twitch against her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie groaned softly then curved his hand over her breast. Pressing it into his palm, he gave the firm mound of flesh a semi-rough squeeze before moving his hand to its twin. With an eager growl he lowered his head to pull her exposed nipple into his mouth.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>“OH!”</i> Annie yelped with surprise at the sudden stimulation. Her fingers laced into her hair and clenched as bolts of electricity fired through her. She was determined not to touch him, to interfere with his attention to her body. So far his every touch had been exquisite, stirring her simmering desire. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mmmm…” Richie hummed as he suckled at her breast, gentling his mouth as he took in more of her flesh. He pulled in a deep breath as his tongue rolled slowly around the peak of the quivering mound. Her skin smelled wild and beautiful, just like her, scented faintly with roses and spice.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s hand moved from her breast to be replaced by his mouth. Annie moaned again and arched upward to meet his lips, her hands still clenched on her pillow. She felt Richie’s hand slide down her abdomen as his lips teased her breast, causing her to unconsciously hold her breath.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Jesus, Annie…” Richie breathed against her flesh as his long fingers curved over the button of her cutoffs. “You’re so fucking <i>delicious</i>…” He let out another muffled groan as he again filled his mouth with her breast.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh… Oh <i>Richie</i>…” Annie panted softly. She felt him tugging at the fastening at her waist and it was all she could do to remain still. She wanted desperately for Richie to divest her of her scanty garments so she could relish the feel of his naked flesh against hers. Her bottom lip slipped between her teeth as Annabelle growled impatiently while Richie continued his fumbling.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i>Son</i>ofa…” Richie matched Annabelle’s soft growl with his frustrated mumbling as he continued to struggle with her shorts. With a sharp exhalation he raised his head from her breast, turning his attention to the workings of his fingers. He scooted downward on the bed to get a better view of the confounding button, his hair trailing over Annie’s abdomen and making her gasp.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie… let me…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i>No!</i> I <i>got</i> it…” Richie levered himself up onto his elbow so he could attack her waistband two-handed. With the improved dexterity he quickly shoved the button through its hole and pushed down the zipper of her fly. His smirk returned when he felt lace under his fingertips as he pushed them inside her shorts. He quickly tunneled his fingers under the fabric, finding a nest of soft hair at the apex of a warm cleft.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s whimper was almost musical when Richie slipped his long middle finger into her wet warmth. “Ohhhh… <i>Annie</i>…” he groaned, his eyes wide and fixed on his hand as it flexed with the movement of his fingers. Automatically his fingertip found the tight little bud of her clitoris and circled around it.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie stared at the rhythmic movement of his hand, entranced by the sight of his touch in Annabelle’s most private of places. As his hand moved his knuckles pushed the unzipped denim halves of her cutoffs further apart, exposing more of the pretty lavender lace decorating her panties. The moonlight glinted off tight blonde curls that peeked over the lace’s edge and between his fingers.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i>Richie!</i>” Annie gasped, her body tensing at his sensual massage. “Oh!… Ohhhhh <i>myyyyy</i>…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The soft Southern lilt of her moan drew Richie’s gaze from his hand to Annie’s face. His heart jumped when he saw her wide eyes glittering the color of midnight as she panted softly. Her hands were still surrendered beside her shoulders, but now her delicate fingers were clenched into fists as she struggled to restrain herself under his erotic touch.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i>God</i>, Annie…” he breathed, staring at her beauty as he continued his strokes. His cock jumped as he watched her lips part in a shuddering gasp just before a surge of warmth coated Richie’s fingers, alerting him to the extent of her arousal. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her slickening stirred Richie to action. With an eager growl he slid his hand from Annabelle’s warmth and pushed himself up onto his hip. With both hands Richie yanked her cutoffs and panties down her thighs, struggling slightly to untangle them from around her knees before succeeding in stripping them completely from her body. Richie flung the useless garments away from the bed before dropping back to his recline. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With his free hand Richie grabbed roughly at Annabelle’s bare hip, turning her lower body toward him. He shifted awkwardly on the bed as he bent to press his mouth again over Annie’s navel, sucking roughly at it before moving his mouth downward, devouring her flesh. Richie licked and sucked eagerly at the warm skin below her bellybutton as he slid his body down the bed, his rigid cock dragging along Annabelle’s leg as he moved. He moaned at the fantastic sensation.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie felt Annie squirm under his grasp. “<i>Richie!</i>” she gasped.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Realizing his fingers were clenched tightly around Annie’s hip and digging into her buttock, Richie relaxed his grip. He didn’t want to hurt her in his excitement. Richie groaned with delight as his mouth travelled lower to Annabelle’s warm private flesh, her soft curls tickling his chin and lips before he tasted the salty-sweet tang of her juices.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>“RICHIE!”</i> Annie’s utterance was more of a yelp than a gasp. The almost-frantic note in her voice made Richie freeze. A second later he felt Annie’s hand in his hair, tugging his head backward. Again he felt Annie squirm in his grasp, her thighs pressing closed as she rolled her pelvis away from him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie raised his head to look at her, his chocolate eyes wide with surprise. He was taken aback by her expression as she stared back at him, her eyes as round as his. She had pushed herself up onto one elbow, and her other hand was tangled in his sweaty locks.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“What… I… what’s wrong?” Richie stammered. His stomach sank. “I… I didn’t hurt you… Did… Did I?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle let go of Richie’s hair and withdrew her hand, dropping it onto her stomach. She rolled a bit more to her side, tipping her body further away from Richie. She ducked her chin, unable to hold his gaze. “<i>No!</i>... No.” She swallowed hard. “You didn’t hurt me… God, not at… at all.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Even in the dim moonlight Richie could see the rosy flush Annabelle’s pretty cheeks. He stared at her for a long moment, confused by her sudden interruption of their foreplay. She said he hadn’t hurt her… God, he <i>hoped</i> he hadn’t. Richie blinked in puzzlement.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, God…” Annie groaned softly. She ran a hand through her hair, the honey-gold curls tangling around her fingers as she blew out a breath. “God, Richie… I’m.. I’m <i>so</i> sorry…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie was taken aback by Annabelle’s unexpected change in demeanor. He stared at her as he tried to process what was happening, his head spinning as his cock throbbed. She had asked him to make love to her. She had led him to the house, to her bedroom, and kissed him like a woman possessed. She had ordered him to strip and allowed him to undress her, had let him rub against her and feel her up… And <i>now</i> she was suddenly backing out on him? When she was clearly as revved up for action as he was? </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie opened his mouth, but no words came out. He had no fucking idea what to say.</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-26287501351448526612011-07-16T09:32:00.000-04:002011-07-16T09:32:12.735-04:00Chapter 26<div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle wiped her hands on the kitchen towel and dropped it on the counter next to the drainer full of freshly-washed dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A stray lock of honey-blonde hair tickled her cheek as she turned toward the stove.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She reached up to tuck it behind her ear before reaching for the aluminum-foil-covered plate resting on the back burner.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With the plate in one hand, Annabelle used her free hand to pull open a drawer and extract a fork and knife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sliding the drawer closed with a firm bump of her hip, she glanced toward the kitchen window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sky outside was the soft aubergine of twilight.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie moved through the quiet little house, to the front door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again using her hip to push open the screen door, she stepped out onto the porch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She paused, looking out across the yard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie was still where she had left him nearly two hours ago, sitting in the weathered old chair, his guitar cradled in his lap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His form was silhouetted in the dusky evening light, against the soft silvery backdrop of the marsh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Across the yard fireflies winked like twinkling little stars, dancing just above the ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie watched Richie’s slight movements as his soft bluesy croon drifted through the heavy night air, mingled with the gentle melody from his guitar strings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The scene melted Annie’s heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A tender smile curving her lips, she stepped down off the porch and crossed the lawn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Hey there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You hungry yet?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The quiet inquiry startled Richie, even as he felt her presence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Huh?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He turned in his seat, looking back over his shoulder at the source of his interruption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With the movement he bumped the small spiral-bound notebook that was resting on the chair’s wooden arm, sending it fluttering to the grass at his feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie muttered a swear as he leaned down to pick up the pad and toss it into his guitar case, then turned his attention to Annie.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A sheepish grin spread across Richie’s face as he saw Annie smiling at him, holding a foil-covered plate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He realized he had forgotten all about Annie’s dinner call.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The one she had made while it was still light out, at least an hour ago.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Umm… Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m starving, actually.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie chuckled softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Sorry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was supposed to help you cook, wasn’t I?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh huh.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie smirked gently and moved forward, circling around Richie’s open guitar case to the empty chair at his side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She lowered herself onto the seat, resting the warm plate on her knee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And you were supposed to eat with me, too.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sorry.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie felt his cheeks flush at her gentle chastisement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I heard you call me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just… well, I was working on this riff and I thought it would only take a minute…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie, it’s okay.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie cut off his apology with a warm smile and a shake of her blonde head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I coulda called you again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I didn’t wanna interrupt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could tell you were on to somethin’.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She held out the plate in a silent offering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie ducked his head and pulled his guitar from his lap, propping it against the side of his chair before reaching for the plate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He sat forward on the edge of his chair, balancing the dish on his knees as he tugged at the edges of the tinfoil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“So… Umm… What is it?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Nothin’ fancy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie smiled gently as she watched Richie pick at the foil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Ham steak, some fried taters an’ onions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Green beans from the garden.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie succeeded in lifting the foil wrapper, crinkling it into a ball and tossing it into his guitar case beside the notebook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He chortled softly as he found himself confronted with a good-sized mound of food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Damn, Annie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You keep feedin’ me like this I’m gonna get fat.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I don’t think there’s much chance of that.” Annie giggled softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You ain’t got an ounce of fat on ya.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Miss Tillie thinks you’re <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">too</i> skinny.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She handed Richie the fork and knife she had carried out from the kitchen.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah, well… spendin’ all the little money you have on beer and gas and guitar strings will keep ya skinny,” Richie replied wryly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He scooped a big forkful of crispy brown potatoes into his mouth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Mmmm… <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">fuck,</i> these are good.” Richie mumbled.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie grinned and sat back in her chair, pulling her legs up beneath her on the wide seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She watched Richie eat for a minute before letting her gaze wander to the guitar at his side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her smile softened as she evaluated the simple instrument, until now a source of mystery to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since Richie’s arrival it had been locked up in its case, a prisoner of his sadness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But for some reason Richie had taken out his guitar and began to play; not for her, but for himself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the past several hours he had been consumed by the task, seemingly in his own little world out here at the far end of her yard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie had been able to hear snippets of the music he was making, but she didn’t recognize any of the words or melodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her eyes dropped to the notebook resting inside Richie’s guitar case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She could see faint lines of messy handwriting in the dim light.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“So…”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie hesitated, not sure if she should ask.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie had been so sensitive about the topic of music in the short time they had known each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But he seemed so relaxed and unguarded right now.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie looked up from his almost-empty plate, waiting for her question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He arched a brow when she didn’t immediately continue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So?” he prodded.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie felt an inexplicable little nervous flutter in her stomach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She shrugged and wrapped her arms around her bare legs, pulling her knees in closer to her chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So… what have you been out here playin’?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie swallowed the mouthful of ham he had been chewing, then looked back down at his plate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A secretive little smile curved the corner of his mouth before he answered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just some… stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something that just kinda came to me, earlier.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie tilted her head, his response piquing her curiosity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Came to you?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded, then turned his head to give Annie a full view of his little smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yeah.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You mean…. Like… Like you had an idea for a song?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shrugged, returning his gaze to his food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He speared the last piece of fried ham on his fork and popped it into his mouth, his smile broadening as he chewed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could feel Annie’s expectant gaze on him, but he needed a minute to figure out how to explain what had happened, how he had suddenly been hit with the lightning bolt of musical inspiration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie realized she was holding her breath as she watched Richie eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t know what to think, what to say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was obvious from his little smirk that he wasn’t upset or unhappy with her question. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was no trace of the melancholy that had cloaked his handsome features every time she had asked him about music before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was almost like he was puzzled with her question, unsure how to answer.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A quiet sigh escaped Annabelle’s lips as she remembered to exhale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gentle rush of breath made Richie turn his attention back to her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He swallowed, then set his knife and fork across his plate and moved it from his lap to the wide wooden arm of the Adirondack chair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie shifted in his seat, turning to more fully face Annie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he spoke his voice was calm and even.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I was watching you from the porch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were hanging up a sheet on the clothesline.” He chuckled softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You had to stand on your tiptoes to pin it up, and I was checking out your legs.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly but didn’t speak, not wanting to interrupt.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s smile gentled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was thinking how it nice it is here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Peaceful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, today it was like I was in some place where I didn’t have any worries or cares.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Someplace I could just hang out and relax.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He chortled quietly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t get me wrong, I worked my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ass </i>off in your garden and your yard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That wasn’t exactly relaxing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it felt good.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Thank you for that,” Annie responded quietly, her eyes sparkling in the dusky light as she smiled back at Richie.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie brushed her thanks away with a wave of one of his big hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Naw, I was happy to do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyway…”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He paused for a moment, gazing at Annabelle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When he continued his voice carried a note of huskiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I was watching you hang out the clothes, and you looked so damned pretty, Annie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those long, tan legs and that shiny blonde hair and that sweet smile...<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the sun, and the grass, and the sky… <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just could hardly believe my eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or my luck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That such a beautiful, smart, kind, generous, fantastic woman could fall for some doofus like me.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s eyes moistened as her heart squeezed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Richie…” she breathed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the rest her words caught in her throat. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie, I don’t know what happened, but somehow… I was watching you, and all of a sudden I just… I heard music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my head, in my heart…”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie blushed slightly and shrugged.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now that he had said it out loud it sounded kind of silly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it was the truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I could hear my guitar, hear myself singing the words, in my head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had to write it down.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s gaze flicked back to the notebook in Richie’s guitar case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So you grabbed your guitar and came out here… and started writin’.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded and reached for the object of her attention. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pulled the notebook onto his lap and leafed through it, smiling sheepishly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I got some ideas, mostly riffs and melodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I got some lyrics too.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He chuckled and shook his head at himself before looking up at Annabelle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It’s been a long damned time since I’ve been able to write, Annie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not a note or a word, for almost a year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was…”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie’s voice cracked slightly, and he paused to clear his throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was sure… I’d lost it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That I couldn’t write anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And a musician who can’t write his own stuff ain’t never gonna make it out of the bars.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie dropped his gaze again to the book in his hands, his long fingers tracing over the words he had written as he swallowed the lump in his throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Maybe you just needed to take some time off,” Annie observed gently, her own voice husky with emotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“A change of scenery, somethin’ different…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Inspiration.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie supplied the word for her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I needed something to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">make</i> me want to write again.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s heart fluttered as she heard the subtext of his words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And me hangin’ out the wash is what made you wanna write a song?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smiled at her husky chuckle, turning his eyes to meet hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You</i> inspire me, Annie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just you.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the only word Annie could utter, a soft whisper that escaped past the rising lump in her throat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her sapphire eyes glittered with moisture in the twilight, the little tears on her lashes catching the light of the rising full moon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had never had a man say such a romantic thing to her before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was almost overwhelming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But even as her heart squeezed with emotion Annie knew what she had to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had to be honest with Richie, that he didn’t belong here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That he had to go back home, share his music, and reach for his dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had a gift, a special talent he couldn’t let wither away here in this little town, just so he could be with her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But she didn’t have to tell him right now.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie and Richie stared at each other for a long moment, sharing a gentle smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie felt herself falling into the chocolate depths of Richie’s beautiful, expressive eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His gaze was different now, full of warmth and contentment where before there had been guarded melancholy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Can… can I hear it?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie’s soft voice broke the spell, delivering her meek question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What you’ve been working on?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well…”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie paused before answering carefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He didn’t want to hurt Annie’s feelings, but he wasn’t sure he was quite ready to share the words he had written.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I don’t exactly have a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">song </i>yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kinda just pieces of one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of a couple, actually.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The quiet word was tinged with disappointment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Oh… okay.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“But<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can play you some of it,” Richie continued hastily, his heart clenching at her sad tone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The guitar parts, I mean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just… I don’t quite know what to do with the lyrics yet.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He let out a little breath of relief when he saw Annie’s lips curve upward in response to his offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“They.. uh… they don’t really make sense.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie nodded, reaching up to tuck her hair behind her ear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Oh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Okay.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She shifted in her chair, turning a little more toward Richie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Just the music, then.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie reached for his guitar, careful to avoid toppling the dinner plate resting on the chair arm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pulled the instrument onto his lap and scooted to the edge of the seat, his long legs folding awkwardly under him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie giggled softly as she watched Richie shift around until he was comfortable.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“This is kinda rough, so bear with me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie apologized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I think I got the melody down, but I’m not so sure about some of the chords.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle smiled and shook her head at Richie’s nervous explanation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Richie, it don’t bother me if it ain’t perfect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just wanna hear you play.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie gave her a little shrug in reply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here goes.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He took a deep breath and looked down at his hands on the strings, then began to play.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Delicate notes flowed from the strings, seeming to float on the night air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The melody was soft and gentle, almost like a lullaby, yet it carried a subtly mournful note.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Richie added the chords, the piece took on an almost haunted quality, rich and vibrant yet somehow comforting.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie couldn’t hold back a little gasp of awe as she watched Richie’s fingers dance over the strings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She had always been amazed that such beautiful sounds could come from such a simple instrument, in the right hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And Richie’s hands were wondrous.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After a scant few minutes Richie stopped playing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Uh… that’s kinda all I have,” he shrugged sheepishly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I was about to work on the bridge when you came out with supper.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“It’s beautiful,” Annie breathed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“And you… you wrote that… because of… of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me</i>?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smiled at Annie, his heart squeezing at the wonder in her wide blue eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All I had to do was close my eyes and picture you… and the music just came out, through my hands.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He shrugged and felt a light blush warm his cheeks as he modestly dropped his gaze to the guitar on his lap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It happens like that… when it’s good.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie… it’s amazin’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You’re</i> amazin’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have such incredible talent…”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie realized she was gushing and stopped herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She didn’t want to embarrass Richie, after what he had shared with her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But he was just <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i> good…</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shrugged again and chuckled softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thanks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I think you’re a little biased.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Maybe so.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie smiled gently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But I do know what I like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">love </i>that, Richie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s just gorgeous.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She reached out to give Richie’s arm a gentle squeeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“An’ I can’t wait to hear the words you put with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the way you sing.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie returned Annie’s smile, his hand moving from his guitar to cover hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You asked me last night if I’d play something for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before we went out, remember?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh huh.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You still want me to?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, I can play something you know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know lots of covers.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle grinned eagerly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You bet.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gently pulling her hand from under Richie’s she turned in her seat to fully face him, folding her legs under her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“What do you wanna hear?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Whatever you wanna play.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m easy.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chuckled at her eagerness, his hand automatically dropping back to its place over the strings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He absent-mindedly strummed a few soft chords as he looked out over the marsh, trying to think of an appropriate song with which to serenade his lovely Muse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">When Richie glanced over at Annie and saw her golden hair shining in the rising moonlight it came to him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The perfect song for this moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie smiled and began to rock gently in his seat as he picked out the introductory notes to Joe Cocker’s ballad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s eyes widened as she recognized the gentle melody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was even more beautiful on the delicate strings of Richie’s guitar than it sounded on quiet piano keys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her hand moved to her chest, resting over her heart as it fluttered with happiness.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Then he sang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Softly, earnestly, honestly… the lyrics giving voice to the emotion swelling in his heart as Richie gazed at the beautiful angel before him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You are so beautiful<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To me…<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You are so beautiful<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To me…<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Can’t you see<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You’re everything I hoped for<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You’re everything I need<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You are so beautiful<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To me<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s velvety, whiskey-blues voice was nearly Annabelle’s undoing. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It nourished her soul, ignited her body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It made her want him more than she had ever wanted anything before.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She watched Richie with passion-veiled eyes, taking in the strong line of his jaw, the soft curve of his lips, the dark fringe of his lashes against his moonlit skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His long shag falling over his strong shoulders, his trim torso rocking in time with the silent cadence of his song.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And those hands… those lovely, gifted hands… dancing across the strings of his instrument. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">He</i> was beautiful.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You are so beautiful<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To me…<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You are so beautiful<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To me…<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Can’t you see<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You’re everything I hoped for<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You’re everything I need<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You are so beautiful<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To….. me……<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After he plucked the last note, Richie opened his eyes and turned his face to Annabelle’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He almost gasped at the raptured expression on her lovely face.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then he chuckled softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“That okay?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“That was… <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">perfect</i>.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie’s voice was breathy, full of desire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Richie… thank you.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re welcome.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie slipped the guitar from his lap and carefully laid it in its case, then pushed himself up from his seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He held out his hand, a silent invitation for Annabelle to join him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The look she gave him as she placed her hand in his nearly made Richie’s knees buckle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He swallowed hard as he watched Annie gracefully unfold her legs and slowly rise from her seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She stepped close to Richie, her arms sliding around his waist as she tilted her face up to his.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her moist, plump lips glistened in the moonlight, enticing him for a taste.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s hands automatically went to Annie’s hips as he ducked his head to press his mouth to hers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A soft groan escaped him as he savored the kiss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A warm flush swept through his body as Annie moved closer, molding her body against his.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">When their lips parted, Richie and Annie gazed at each other for a long moment before Annie spoke softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“It’s gettin’ late.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You gotta work tomorrow, right?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mmm Hmm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At eight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An’ you’re gonna go work on your car with Eddie, right?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie sighed and slipped his arms around Annie’s waist, pulling her closer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He smiled as she turned her cheek against his chest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“So, no gallivantin’ tonight, huh?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He felt Annie’s giggle in response.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Nope.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Annie could hear Richie’s heart racing under her, and she could feel the swelling lump in the front of his jeans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Besides, there’s nowhere to go out gallivantin’ <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s Sunday.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh yeah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I forgot.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie chortled quietly, then sighed as the fresh scent of her hair filled his senses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well then… um… what do you wanna do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can play some more, or we can watch TV, or… or play a game or something….”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even as he spoke Richie fervently hoped Annie wouldn’t want to undertake any of the activities he mentioned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie felt Annie chuckle against his chest, then she raised her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She pulled back enough to look up at him, her eyes meeting his.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie, I think we’re past playin’ games, don’t you?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her voice was soft and husky.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh huh,” Richie breathed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unconsciously his tongue slid across his lower lip as he drew in a slow, deep breath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could see in Annabelle’s eyes what she wanted, before the words slipped from her soft, shiny lips.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I want you to make love to me, Richie.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie exhaled softly as he silently nodded.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He and Annabelle gazed at each other for another long moment, then she gently disengaged herself from his embrace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taking his hand, she turned toward the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Richie silently followed her across the night-dampened lawn and up the steps to the porch.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A pair of lightning bugs winked at each other as they hovered over Richie’s guitar, abandoned under the summer moon.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-91362308571338825372011-07-01T21:00:00.010-04:002011-07-02T00:59:30.283-04:00Chapter 25<div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“What… what are you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">doing</i>?” Richie mumbled gleefully. He knew full well what Annie was doing, but he could hardly believe it. She was still in her pretty Sunday dress. They hadn’t even made it in the door yet.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Somethin’ I’ve been thinkin’ ‘bout all morning,” Annie purred. She chuckled throatily and tugged at the waist of his jeans, the weight of his belt helping her slide the worn denim down past the point of his hip. The wiry hair of Richie’s thigh tickled the backs of her fingers beneath the tight cotton leg band of his underwear.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ahhh…” Richie breathed involuntarily as the back of Annie’s hand pushed against his rigid cock. “You… you mean you were sitting in… in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">church</i>… thinking about my… my dick?” Despite his arousal at the deliciously dirty thought, Richie’s cheeks colored lightly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mmmm Hmmm…” Annie giggled softly and raised her other hand to tug Richie’s jeans down over his other hip. The pants slid halfway down his thighs, fully revealing his full-to-bursting briefs. “Actually, I kept rememberin’ that story you told me last night. When we were playin’ Truth or Dare, remember?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh… Huh?” Richie blew out a long breath as his groin surged. He needed to remain calm, to relax and enjoy what was about to happen. He certainly didn’t need to get too excited and come in his shorts before Annie had the chance to… Well, whatever it was she was about to do. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You know. The story you told me. ‘Bout your first time?” Annie arched a coy brow as she gazed up at him, her hand still resting against Richie’s crotch while she watched confusion swirl in Richie’s deep brown eyes. She giggled again as she saw that right now he probably didn’t even remember his own name, let alone what he had told her last night.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You took a Truth. I asked how you lost your virginity?” she prodded gently. “You said some blonde-haired girl at the beach took you in a bedroom and gave you your first blowjob, remember? Jenny, or somebody?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"> “Julie. Yeah… I remember.” Richie’s voice was little more than a dry croak.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie shifted in her kneel, turning her hand to again cup over Richie’s erection, making him groan with delight. “Well, I was just thinkin’…” She grinned up at Richie, watching him wince as she gave his cock a light squeeze. “Betcha I can do better than she did.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s boastful declaration made Richie laugh hoarsely. He grinned back down at her. “I dare ya to try.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle chuckled at Richie’s response. “Well, then. I can’t back down from a Dare, can I?” Her sky-blue eyes sparkled with passion-tinted mischief. “But first you get outta those Sunday clothes.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie wasn’t about to argue. Immediately he raised a hand to yank at the loose knot below his collar. With a couple quick jerks he untied the tie and pulled it from around his neck, dropping it behind him on the porch swing before his fingers scrabbled over his shirt buttons. He rapidly unfastened his shirt, then shed it and peeled off his undershirt. The shirts joined the tie on the gently-swaying swing.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie bent down, groaning softly as the movement shifted his cock in Annie’s grasp. He reached for his belt, planning to divest himself of his pants per her order. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her quiet word made him freeze. Richie stared down into Annie’s beautiful face, seeing her smile had softened. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’ll do that.” She held his gaze for a long moment, then straightened from her kneel, reaching up for him. Richie leaned down to touch his lips to Annabelle’s in a breathless, wanton kiss.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie… <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">God</i>, I…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Shhh.” She smiled before settling back into her kneel and returning her attention to Richie’s crotch. Her delicate hands pushed at the denim swaddling his thighs, guiding Richie’s jeans down his long legs until they bunched around his ankles. Then she trailed her fingertips lightly up the outsides of his legs. Annie chuckled as she watched Richie flinch at the tickle.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">When her fingers reached the elastic banding his thighs, Annie paused. She took a deep breath and watched the bulge in Richie’s underwear visibly twitch under her gaze. An eager smirk curved her full lips as Annie’s hands moved in unison to the waistband of Richie’s briefs, then her fingers curled under the band. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie slowly pulled at the elastic, her eyes widening as she stretched it outward to uncover Richie’s rigid shaft. Unconsciously her lower lip slipped between her teeth as she guided his briefs down his thighs. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Once he was fully uncovered Annie stared at Richie’s manhood, taking in the impressive sight. Annie had seen Richie naked last night, but in the shadowy moonlight. Now, in the light of day, she could fully appreciate his endowment.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Again Richie’s cock twitched under Annie’s gaze, causing her to blink. She realized his breathing was shallower, more uneven. Her eyes slipped from his shaft to the thick shag of dark hair against his skin, then followed the fuzzy stripe up to Richie’s navel. She watched his abdomen quiver as he panted with anticipation.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Wow…”</i> Annie breathed softly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chuckled throatily. “Uh… thanks.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie turned her face upward, giving Richie a wide-eyed little smile. Then she dropped her gaze again to his crotch. She stared for another moment at Richie’s swollen member, then she reached up to take him in her hand. Pulling gently, she flexed his shaft away from his body, toward her mouth. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ohhhhhh</i>……” Richie groaned as he watched Annie’s soft pink lips pucker against his head. His hands fisted against his thighs as he involuntarily rocked a bit forward. God, how he wanted her to open her mouth, to take him in and surround his cock with warm, wet pressure, to guide him to his threatening climax.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But she wasn’t ready for that yet. And Richie couldn’t look away.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s womb clenched at the salty-sweet tang of Richie’s flesh against her lips. His cock was so hard, so proud, so… so <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">BIG.</i> She chuckled softly. There was no other word for it. Annie hadn’t seen all that many penises in her life, but she had been around enough to know that Richie’s was definitely larger than anything she had ever seen or heard of.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s lips puckered against the slick, purplish skin, suckling lightly before relaxing to fully encircle his head. She felt Richie’s pelvic muscles tense as he sucked in and held a breath. Annie couldn’t stop a little hum of delight at his reaction to her. The vibration was met by another loud gasp.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Easy,</i>” Richie hissed, as much to himself as to her. “I… I’m <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i>…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie immediately drew back, releasing him from her mouth. “Sorry. I didn’t hurt ya, did I?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s eyes widened at her response. “No! God, no… it just feels so <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">good</i>.” He smiled weakly. “I just don’t want you to think I’m… uh… you know. Too…fast.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chuckled softly at his confession. “You weren’t last night.” She smirked up at him then leaned in close again, puffing a light breath across his shining, swollen head. “But I can take it slow if ya want.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie winced at the firm squeeze of her hand and the gentle breeze from her lips, his eyes squeezing involuntarily shut. He felt his dick throb in reply, demanding further attention. “Not… not <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">too</i> slow,” he grunted through clenched teeth. Richie forced his eyelids apart, staring back down at his beautiful tormentor.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, okay then.” Again Annie leaned in, this time lightly tracing the tip of her tongue along the firm ridge of muscle that ringed his cock. She felt him twitch in her hand as her tongue fully circled Richie’s head before she closed her mouth over him. Testing his resolve, she sucked sharply.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“AHH!”</i> Richie yelped in surprise. His knees nearly buckled and he swayed forward. Automatically his hands reached for her, attempting to right his balance. His fingers snaked into her honey-gold curls and curved over her scalp.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s lips curved into a grin, parting from his flesh and releasing the pressure on his cock. She pulled her mouth from him and glanced up at Richie’s face. His cheeks were flushed and his lips were parted as he panted raggedly. Annie felt a stab of sympathy.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why don’cha sit down?” Her soft words were more a directive than a question. “Don’t want ya to fall over or anything.” She chuckled huskily. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah. Okay.” Richie breathed. He paused for a minute, then reluctantly pulled his fingers from Annie’s silky golden curls. He slowly leaned back, letting Annie help guide him down onto the swing. The wooden bench creaked softly and wobbled on its chains as he settled his weight on it and slumped against its slatted back. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“There.” Annie smiled at Richie, then shifted on her knees. She rested her hands lightly on Richie’s thighs for a moment, regarding his taut, tanned, lightly-furred body. His reclining position allowed the rigid pillar of his cock to jut away from his body, ready for her touch. “Better.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh huh,” Richie agreed breathlessly. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s smile faded as she reached for Richie. Her eyes locked on her hand as her small fingers curled slowly around his erect shaft. She squeezed gently, watching with fascination as she saw his cock visibly throb in response, then release a pearly drop of moisture from the slit at its tip. Her lips parted with a little gasp at the erotic sight.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie…” Richie rasped a meek warning as he felt his balls tighten beneath her touch.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Understanding his cue, Annabelle raised up on her knees. Her golden curls rippled as she gave her head a little shake, then smiled. Her mouth curved into a soft, pink “O” as she leaned over Richie’s thighs and again took him in.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie groaned with delight at the contact. The corners of his mouth curved upward as he stared down at his crotch, watching Annabelle’s lips inch along his shaft. The sight was mesmerizing. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s eyes fluttered closed as she savored Richie. His musky scent filled her senses, the salty tang of his flesh whetted her appetite. Slowly she drew him in, to the back of her throat, until her gag reflexes prevented her from taking more. Her hand curled again around the base of Richie’s cock, her fingers' width fitting easily into the space between her lips and his pelvis. She giggled softly at the realization that he was only half-inside her mouth.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Easing back just a bit, Annie curved her tongue against the rigid flesh inside her mouth. Her action was met with a sharp hiss and a little thrust. Withdrawing a bit further, Annie relaxed her jaw and slowly moved her mouth in a little circle, allowing Richie’s head to roll against her tongue, teeth, and the roof of her mouth. When the revolution was complete she sucked firmly, her lips closing over his shaft and sliding up to the fleshy ridge below his head.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh… oh my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">GOD…”</i> Richie panted. “Fast. Annie…. <i>Faster</i>.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Again Annabelle felt Richie’s long fingers snake into her hair and curve against her scalp. Richie pulled gently at Annie’s head, urging her to increase the tempo of her ministrations.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She let out a muffled chuckle, knowing the sound vibrated against Richie’s shaft. Then she did his bidding. Continuing to grasp the base of his cock with one hand and bracing her other hand next to Richie’s thigh on the swing’s seat, Annie sucked hard at Richie’s head. Then she began to fuck him with her mouth, her honeyed curls bobbing frantically with the motion.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Jesus. Fucking. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">CHRIST!</i>!!” Richie yelped. His heels dug against the wooden porch floor as his hips bucked upward against Annie’s mouth. His fingers tightened in her hair as he hung on to her rapidly-bouncing head. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ANNIE</i>!”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The hot warning burst of his climax against her tonsils made Annie gag. Automatically she relaxed her jaw and drew her head back, clearing space in her mouth. The sharp tang of Richie’s cum coated her tongue, causing her to gag again.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Knowing Richie was about to explode in her mouth Annie squeezed the base of his shaft hard, as if to cut off its release. With her other hand she scrabbled at the bench seat of the porch swing, beside Richie’s hip. Her fingers closed around soft cotton knit, just in the nick of time.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A guttural, grunting moan tumbled from Richie’s lips as his orgasm overtook him. His hips bucked upward as his glutes and abs contracted, giving force to his release. His wide eyes locked on Annie and he watched her gag, then pull her mouth from his shaft. But he didn’t protest as her fist replaced her mouth. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie moaned again as Annie squeezed and stroked him, coaxing his sweet, sticky fluid to surge forth from his head like a milky fountain. He panted and watched his cum flow down over Annie’s hand and onto his crotch, lubricating her strokes. The erotic sight got him off again.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie smirked quietly as she watched pure passion swirl in Richie’s glittering brown-black eyes. He looked so savage, so wild and fierce, reclining naked and sweaty on her porch swing. His entire body shuddered with the aftershocks of his orgasm as she slowed her up-and-down massage of his cock.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie… e… <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">enough</i>,” he finally gasped. His long fingers closed over the small hand on his shaft.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chuckled huskily. “You sure?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck</i> yeah.” Richie tried to slow his pounding heart, sucking in a trio of deep breaths.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, okay,” Annie slowly pried her sticky hand loose from Richie’s now-flagging erection, wiping it on Richie’s discarded undershirt before dropping the white knit onto his crotch. She gently dabbed the shirt around the base of Richie’s cock before carefully rubbing his shaft. She smiled at his involuntary shiver in response. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her eyes traveled back up Richie’s long, lean body to his face. Suddenly she felt a little flush of embarrassment as she realized what she had just done. Her cheeks colored lightly as she gave him a guilty smile. “Well. Maybe I’m gonna need a few of those Hail Marys too.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie laughed hoarsely and reached up to tug a hand through his sweaty hair. “I think you might. Pretty sure Reverend Purdy wouldn’t approve of what you just did to me. Still in your Sunday Church dress and all.” His tease was gentle.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled as her eyes met Richie’s and they shared a warm gaze. “Well, I’m just a mortal sinner, I guess.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie reached forward to brush a finger across Annie’s cheek, his smile gentling. “A beautiful one, too.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s heart melted with his soft compliment. She carefully climbed to her feet, then settled beside Richie on the swing. Her palm rested lightly on his chest before she turned her face to his. She sighed as Richie’s soft lips settled on hers.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After a long, tender kiss Annie pulled back and gave Richie a little wink. “Okay, I gotta get goin’ on these chores. Come inside and get your clothes together, so I can put ‘em in the wash.” She giggled as she nodded at the soiled white undershirt covering his crotch. “ ‘Specially that one.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes ma’am.” Richie grinned, anticipating her response.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie, what did I tell you…” Annie saw the tease in his eyes and stopped mid-scold. With a little chuckle and a shake of her blonde head she smoothed her skirt over her lap. The swing rocked gently as she stood.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie took three steps toward the door, her heels clicking softly against the porch’s wooden floor. She paused with her hand on the screen door’s handle, turning her head to look back over her shoulder. Annabelle let her eyes roam once more over Richie’s sinewy body, nude except for the white cloth swaddling his groin and the jeans bunched around his ankles. She groaned softly in appreciation before speaking.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Come on in and I’ll make you some lemonade.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With that she turned and pulled open the screen door.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">*****</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie sighed wearily as he lowered his lanky frame onto the porch step. He was bushed. When he had volunteered to help Annabelle with her Sunday chores he hadn’t anticipated having to work quite so hard. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After recovering from the delightful carnal surprise Annie had sprung on him at their return from church, Richie had spent the afternoon doing her bidding. He figured it was the least he could do, to help earn his keep. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">And to show his thanks for her generosity of a more intimate nature.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After showering away the aftermath of his porch-swing exertion, Richie had dumped the contents of his rucksack into Annie’s laundry basket then headed out to the garden. Under her direction he harvested and cleaned tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, squash, onions, and lettuce. Then he spent a back-breaking hour pulling weeds in the vegetable garden and two flower beds. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Once his garden chores were finished Richie washed Annabelle’s old pickup truck and checked the oil and fluids. Then he pulled her rusty lawnmower out of the garden shed and pushed it across her front lawn, cutting the grass in front of her tidy little house. After that he raked the clippings, dumped them into a wheelbarrow, and wheeled them around back to add to the garden mulch pile. He completed his yard chores by cleaning, tuning, and greasing Annie’s lawnmower in preparation for next weekend’s work.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Now, four hours of hard labor and another shower later, he wasn’t sure he’d be able to get back up from this step.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie took a long pull at the cold beer in his hand. The icy beverage slid down his throat, sending a welcome chill through his body. He sighed again, turning his attention to the clothesline at the side of the yard.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">An assortment of jeans, shirts, dresses, and undergarments fluttered in the early evening breeze, pinned to four long wires that hung between T-shaped metal posts. Richie smiled as he watched Annie pull a pink sheet from the basket at her feet and shake it out, then toss it up over the line. Her leg muscles flexed as she stood on her bare tiptoes to clothespin the sheet into place.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s heart squeezed as he admired Annabelle’s form while she hung out the wash. Impossibly short cutoffs fully displayed her tanned, lean legs. She had tied her chambray work shirt up around her midriff, baring her flat belly and a generous slice of cleavage. Her honey-blonde tresses swirled about her head with the breeze, shining like a golden halo in the late-day sun.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She was gorgeous, an angelic figure glowing against the vibrant green of the cut grass, the shimmering, rippling silver of the marsh beyond the yard, and the deep azure of the summer sky. Watching Annie perform her simple chore in this place of quiet beauty, Richie felt a sense of peace wash over him. He smiled and set the beer bottle next to him on the step, then rested his elbows on his knees and just watched her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The music hit him like a bolt of lightning.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He heard the words in his head, felt the melody in his heart. It was as if his soul was singing. It had been quiet for so long he had almost forgotten what it sounded like. How it felt.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">It consumed him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His weariness forgotten, Richie jumped up off the step and reached for the screen door.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">*****</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annabelle heard the loud clatter of the screen door slamming closed. Surprised, she turned to look toward the front of the house. Just a minute ago Richie had been resting on the front porch, watching her hang out the wash. Now he was gone, his beer bottle abandoned on the step.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s brow furrowed as she wondered why he had bolted into the house. Richie had only been relaxing for a couple minutes, taking a break to enjoy a cold beer while she finished this chore. Then he had vowed to help her prepare supper.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The answer was revealed seconds later. Annie’s eyes widened as she watched Richie emerge from the house, pushing a large, bulky item ahead of him through the screen door. Her lips parted with a soft gasp of surprise as she watched Richie carry his guitar case down the porch steps, then stride across the freshly-cut lawn toward the pair of weathered Adirondack chairs at the far end of the yard.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Reaching up to tuck a stray strand of blonde hair behind her ear, Annabelle felt her heart flutter with excitement. The laundry forgotten, Annie’s shining blue eyes remained on Richie, following his purposeful movement. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie reached the chairs and dropped his guitar case onto the grass before lowering himself into one of the seats. Flipping the latches on the battered case, he carefully drew out a two-toned acoustic guitar and settled it on his knee, not bothering to loop the strap over his head. He gazed out across the marsh, not seeing the beautiful vista as his mind focused on the music filling his heart.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie closed her eyes and smiled as the sweet notes drifted across the summer breeze.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-3882551543814064652011-06-24T21:00:00.058-04:002011-06-24T21:00:00.070-04:00Chapter 24<div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie barely heard the rest of the service. He stayed tuned-in enough to stand with the congregation and exchange fellowship greetings with the family in front of him, but his mind was preoccupied with his revelation that maybe his future lay here, in this little Georgia town.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He felt a little guilty at the thought of not going back home to Jersey. But Richie also felt a flush of warm excitement at the idea of staying in Darien with Annie. He could hardly wait to talk to her after church, to tell her of his epiphany and to see the happy sparkle in her blue eyes.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s mind raced as he considered what the future may bring. They’d figure out the details soon enough, he and Annabelle. He obviously had to find a job and a place to live. But Richie was fairly certain Annie would put up with him sleeping on her couch for at least a few more nights, until he could make his own arrangements. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">If the couch was where she wanted him to sleep, anyway. The idea of waking up in Annie’s bed again made Richie smile.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Finally, after a long sermon, a few more hymns, the offering, and another performance by the choir, the worship service came to a close. Richie practically jumped out of the pew, eager to find Annabelle. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">When he realized it would take her a few minutes to return her choir robe to the closet and make her way out to him, Richie retreated to the back corner of the sanctuary. He stood against the wall, watching the congregation members socialize and file out through the front doors, shaking hands with the Reverend and his wife as they departed. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie wondered if Reverend Purdy would remember his name when he approached. Then he chuckled softly as he answered his own question. Probably <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everybody</i> in this little church would know his name, considering how many curious questions he had answered while he serviced cars at Eddie’s yesterday. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“So you didn’t run out on me, huh?” Annie’s sweet voice in his ear sent a tingle down Richie’s spine. He turned to give her a broad smile, wondering how she had snuck up on him. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Nope. Made it through the whole service. And lightning didn’t strike or nothin’.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled. “Well, imagine that. Considerin’ you haven’t been a very church-goin’ man lately, maybe God was cuttin’ you a break.” Annie’s blue eyes twinkled merrily. “But you still owe him some Hail Marys, I’m guessin’.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chortled and dropped his voice. “Yeah, just for the robe closet alone. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You</i> should be confessing for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>. You started it.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mmmm.” Annie didn’t argue, she just gave Richie a conspiratorial smirk. “So, you hungry?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">As if on cue Richie’s stomach emitted a low rumble. He grinned. “Yeah. Starving.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well come on, then. Plenty of good food out in the Fellowship Hall.” Annie slipped her hand into the crook of Richie’s arm. She gently guided him toward the front door, strolling slowly at his side. “How ‘bout we go fill our plates and go outside, sit on the grass? Have a little picnic?” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sounds good,” Richie nodded. Actually, it sounded perfect. He could hardly wait to get Annie alone so he could tell her about his plan.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But first he had to get past the Preacher at the front door.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Reverend Purdy, this is my friend I was tellin’ you about.” Annie gave Richie’s arm a little squeeze with her introduction. “Richie.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ah, yes. Our visitor from up North.” The gray-haired, bespectacled man in the white robe gave Richie a warm smile as he extended his hand in greeting. “Welcome.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie accepted the Pastor’s handshake with a shy grin. “Thanks.” He gave Annie a sideways glance, trying to think of something to say to the Reverend. “Umm… that was a nice service.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why thank you, Son.” Reverend Purdy’s smile broadened. “I always enjoy deliverin’ that message, and I certainly like seein’ new faces out in the congregation. Was there anything special ‘bout the service you enjoyed?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shifted uncomfortably, realizing he was on the spot. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shit.</i> He hadn’t paid attention to a single word of the sermon. “Uh… actually…” Another little squeeze from Annie’s soft hand gave him the answer. “I liked the music. Nice songs… uh, hymns. And the choir is really good.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The Reverend beamed at the compliment. “Yes, they sure are. Beautiful voices of praise.” He tipped his head toward Annie. “Especially you, Annabelle. Your solo today was perfect.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Why thank you, Reverend.” Annie replied primly. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie, you look lovely, my Dear.” The plump, sandy-haired woman standing next to Reverend Purdy spoke, having finished her conversation with an elderly lady who was now shuffling toward the Fellowship Hall. “That green dress is quite fetching. Of course, you look beautiful in everything.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly, a light blush painting her pretty cheeks. “Why thank you, Miss Adeline.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Honey, this is Annie’s friend, Richie. He’s visiting from… New York, is it?” Reverend Purdy’s attempted introduction made Annie giggle again.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“New Jersey,” Richie corrected him before giving the pastor’s wife a little smile and nod of his dark head. “Ma’am.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes, of course. I remember you from yesterday.” Adeline Purdy reached out to give Richie’s forearm a familiar little pat. “You filled up my tank over at the Texaco. And checked my oil and cleaned my windshield.” She smiled sweetly. “And did a fine job of it, too.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh… thanks.” Richie’s cheeks tinted slightly at the compliment.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The pastor’s wife turned her inquisitive gaze from Richie to Annie, then back again. “So how long will you be staying with us in Darien, Richie?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, he’s just passin’ through, Miss Adeline.” Annie was quick to answer, cutting off Richie’s reply before he could draw in a breath. “Eddie’s fixin’ his car, then Richie’s headed back North.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, well that’s just too bad,” Adeline tutted. “He’s gonna miss the Blessing of the Fleet next weekend, then.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh… yeah. Sorry.” Again Richie fidgeted, eager for this conversation to end so he could tell Annie that actually he <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">would</i> be here for next weekend’s church event. The corners of his mouth curved upward at the thought.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, I’m sure he’ll be happy to get back home to his folks in New Jersey.” Annie turned her sweet smile to Richie, then giggled as she heard his stomach grumble again. “But first I think we better get some food in him.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The Reverend and Mrs. Purdy laughed warmly along with Annie as Richie’s blush deepened. But he didn’t mind being the butt of the joke when he felt Annie’s hand slide along his arm until her palm pressed against his. His smile broadened as she laced her fingers with his and gave his hand a little squeeze.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Enjoy the potluck, Richie. We got some fine cooks in this little church.” Reverend Purdy chuckled as he watched the two young people exchange a look. It always warmed his heart to see new love blossoming in his parish. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Thank you, Sir.” Richie replied over his shoulder as Annie tugged him toward the little hallway to the Fellowship Hall. “Ma’am.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Bye, Richie, Annabelle. Y’all have a Blessed day.” Adeline Purdy gave the couple a little wave before exchanging a smile with her husband. “Nice young man.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Seems to be,” Reverend Purdy agreed. “Guess he’s got a little bit of a wild streak in him, though.” He chuckled quietly. “He and Annabelle were out at Ruby Mae’s last night, I hear. And he was singin’ and playin’ guitar.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Adeline Purdy’s brows lifted with surprise. “Oh, my.” Her lips pursed as she turned her gaze back to the lanky, long-haired young man who stood quietly by Annabelle’s side in the doorway to the Fellowship Hall, his hand still twined with hers. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Reverend Purdy shook his head and tsked quietly at his wife’s reaction. “Addie, she’s happy. And we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.” He grinned and lowered his voice. “Besides, he’s leavin’ town tomorrow.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well Praise the Lord for that,” Adeline replied, giving her husband a meaningful look.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie guided Richie into the Fellowship Hall, which was buzzing with enthusiastic conversation. Richie felt dozens of pairs of eyes on him as he carefully filled a paper plate with fried chicken, potato salad, and portions other home-cooked dishes. He smiled and exchanged greetings with a handful of church ladies at Annie’s introduction, though he wanted nothing more than to flee the room and find a quiet spot to wolf down his delicious-looking lunch.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie breathed a sigh of relief when Annie led him back through the Hall doors and down the front steps of the church. Finally he would have a few minutes alone with Annie, where he could tell her of his plan. But his relief was short-lived; as soon as they dismounted the steps friendly greetings claimed Annabelle’s attention.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie glanced at Richie as he was met with this new assault of friendly curiosity by the parishoners. She could read his discomfort in his slouched posture and his tight little smile. Realizing Richie had reached his limit of socializing, Annie led him toward a quiet corner of the yard, politely declining several invitations to join friends and neighbors in their picnics.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded gratefully when Annie directed him to sit in the shade of a big weeping willow tree. Remembering his manners, he waited for her to settle onto the cool grass before dropping to the lawn beside her. He couldn’t stop a relieved little groan as he balanced his plate on his lap and leaned back against the smooth tree trunk.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly. “Sorry ‘bout all that. I reckon you’ve had enough Fellowship for awhile.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“S’Okay.” Richie shrugged, then gave her a half-hearted smile. “They’re just being nice.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“They’re bein’ nosy, is what they’re bein’,” Annie chortled, pulling off her high-heeled shoes. She tucked her legs up underneath her, carefully balancing her plate on her lap. She smiled back at Richie. “Go on, eat. I know you’re starvin’.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded and picked up the fried chicken drumstick from his plate, taking a big bite. He hummed in appreciation; it was delicious. In a matter of a few bites he had cleaned the meat from the bone.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie watched him eat with gusto, then chuckled again as she turned her attention to her own plate. “So, what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">did</i> you think of the service? A lot different from your church?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded as he swallowed a mouthful of potato salad. He swiped a napkin across his lips before responding. “Yeah. I kept waiting for everybody to kneel. But nobody did.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled. “We Baptists kneel sometimes. Just not today.” She sipped from her Styrofoam cup of sweet tea. “What else?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No altar boys. And the whole service was in English.” Richie shoveled another forkful of potato salad into his mouth. “God, this is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">great</i>,” he mumbled in approval.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Your church does services in Latin?” Annie smiled at Richie’s nod. “Wow. That must be really confusin’. Do you understand it?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“It is. And no.” Richie grinned. “I can repeat the words but I have no damned idea what I’m saying.” He took a drink from his own cup. “At least you can understand what your Priest is saying.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Pastor,” Annie corrected him, then smirked. “Not that I was listenin’.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Me either.” Richie smiled sheepishly. “I was…” He paused for a moment, looking up at Annie. Seeing her blue eyes sparkling back at him, Richie took a deep breath. “Actually, I was thinking, about… stuff.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie felt a little flutter in her tummy at Richie’s quiet statement. “What kinda stuff?” she inquired softly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“About… well…” Richie paused again, his brow furrowing as he tried to figure out how to explain his epiphany. “I guess it kinda happened, what you said earlier. Before we went in the church, remember?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“What did I say?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“About God showing me the Light.” Richie looked down at his plate, suddenly a little embarrassed by his impending admission. “I... um… I guess I just kind of… got it.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s eyes widened slightly. “You <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">got </i>it? Got what, Richie?” She grinned. “Are you saying you had a Holy Vision?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shook his head, his cheeks coloring lightly. It really sounded silly, now that Annie said it. “No. Not a vision, exactly.” He took a deep breath, puffing his exhalation upward to ruffle his bangs. “I just realized something. About the future.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s smile gentled. “What about the future?” Her tone was softer, encouraging.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie set his fork down on his plate and raised his gaze to meet Annie’s. “I was watching this little girl. You know, the one in front of me, with her parents?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie nodded. “Sure. Scott and Lisa’s little girl, Lindsay. She’s a cutie, ain’t she?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah. She’s adorable. Anyway…” Richie felt his pulse kick up. He didn’t know why, but he was suddenly nervous. “I was watching her and her parents, and I realized…” He swallowed hard and looked down at the plate on his lap, then back up to Annabelle’s beautiful face. “I realized I don’t want to go back to Jersey.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s heart skipped a beat. “You… you don’t wanna go home? But Richie… then where will you go?” Her voice had taken on a husky note, laced with both hope and dread.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s lips curved into a wistful smile. “Annie, I think I’m meant to stay here. In Darien. With you.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Nervous butterfly wings beat in Richie’s stomach as he heard Annabelle’s little gasp. She gazed at him for a long moment before clearing her throat softly. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You mean… you think… <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">God</i> brought you here to Darien, to be… to be with <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me</i>?” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s eyes widened in stunned disbelief. Her heart danced for a moment, then sank like a stone. The words Richie was saying to her were beautiful, almost too beautiful to bear. He wanted to stay here with her. They wouldn’t have to say goodbye after this weekend.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But how could he really mean it? Despite their intimacy, Richie hardly knew her. When he had told her he loved her last night it was in the afterglow of sex. She knew he believed the words when he uttered them, but things surely looked different in the light of day.<br />
<br />
But here he was again, telling her he wanted to be with her. Annie's lips curved in a slight frown. If he <i>did</i> stay here, what would he be giving up for her? His family? His home? His music? His dream? Annie swallowed hard at that thought. How could she keep Richie from everything that made him who he is?</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded slowly, a little wave of dread forming in the pit of his stomach at Annie’s reaction. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Oh shit. What if she doesn’t want me here? </i> Suddenly he felt the need to explain. The words tumbled from his lips.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I was thinking maybe I can get a job somewhere around here, maybe at the Paper Mill. And find a place to live. I’d probably have to rent a room at first, until I can save up some money, but…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie.” Annie interrupted his pitch with a quiet word. “I’d love nothin’ more than for you to stay here in Darien.” She swallowed hard, then smiled in spite of herself. “With me.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The rest of her reply died on her lips at Richie’s beaming smile. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">But you can’t stay here. This isn’t where you belong,</i> she continued silently. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But she couldn't say the words out loud. She couldn't bear to extinguish his joy.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie knew it was wrong, allowing her own needs and desires to keep her from being honest with Richie. His future wasn’t here, in a dead-end job in this backwater little town. He had so much promise, so much potential. Richie was destined for great things. She just knew it. And she couldn’t selfishly hold him back.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Even if he <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">had</i> told her he loved her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s grin was brighter than the sun. “I… Oh, Annie… I just <i>knew </i>you’d be excited too!” He set his plate aside on the grass and reached for her hand. “I can start workin’ on it today, maybe go to some of the places around town, see if anybody’s hiring. Maybe pick up some applications…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s gentle laugh cut him off. “Slow down, Richie. It’s Sunday. Ain’t nothin’ open today.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh…. Oh.” Richie grinned sheepishly. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. I’m just not used to that. Back home in Jersey lots of stuff is open on Sunday.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well this ain’t New Jersey,” Annie chided him gently. “Down here Sunday’s for God and family.” She smiled. “You’ll have plenty of time to figure out what you’re gonna do come tomorrow.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie brushed his thumb gently over the back of Annie’s soft hand. “Yeah, guess you’re right,” he shrugged, then grinned. “Guess I’m just excited.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s smile softened. “I know.” She gently tugged her hand from Richie’s, then set her half-empty plate aside . “You wanna get some dessert, then we’ll head for home? There’s pie.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I could eat some pie.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie laughed, her eyes sparkling. “I thought so. Well come on, let’s go get you a piece before Eddie and the Reverend eat it all.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie stood and helped Annabelle to her feet, then they carried their lunch plates and cups to the trash before returning to the Fellowship Hall. Once inside they socialized with the church ladies while they each finished a piece of fresh blueberry pie with homemade ice cream. Then Annie and Richie said their farewells and escaped to Annie’s old truck, Richie carrying the now-empty deviled egg platter.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie smiled quietly and listened to Richie’s excited chatter during the short drive back to her home. He seemed so happy; she didn’t have the heart to tell him of her misgivings about his plan to stay in Darien. She didn’t want to see the shadow of sadness return to his handsome face. So she stayed mute, letting him enjoy his euphoria.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Once home, Richie followed Annie up the short walk to the porch steps. He chuckled quietly when she stopped short in front of the door, making him bump into her. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Whoops. Sorry.” Richie’s hands slipped to Annie’s waist, steadying her as she wobbled on her high heels.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled and turned to face Richie, feeling his big hands slide across her waist and back as she moved. “S’Okay.” Her hands raised to rest on his chest, toying with the loosened knot of Richie’s tie which was now askew under his unbuttoned collar. She smiled up at him. “So, whatcha gonna do this afternoon? Watch TV?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s brow furrowed slightly. He figured he and Annie would spend some time together, maybe go somewhere or do something. “Umm… I dunno. What are you gonna do?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Me?” Annie chuckled throatily. “I gotta do my Sunday chores. If I don’t get ‘em done today I won’t have time durin' the week.” She stepped closer to Richie, her hands sliding around his waist.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Chores? Like what?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With a sideways glance Richie spied the porch swing at the end of the little veranda. A happy vision of Annie curled against his side as they rocked slowly on the swing flashed in his mind. With a secretive little smile Richie slowly turned, guiding Annie with him, and shuffled backwards toward the swing. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly, realizing what Richie was trying to do. “Oh, all kindsa stuff. I gotta tend to the garden, do the wash, clean the bathroom, bake some bread…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Wow. That sounds like a lotta stuff,” Richie observed. He stopped moving when the back of his legs bumped against the swing. He smiled down at Annie, ready to coax her into forgetting about her chores for awhile. He really wanted to just sit and relax with Annabelle, and make plans for their future together.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well, it ain’t easy livin’ on your own, you know. Nobody’s gonna do all that stuff for me.”<br />
<br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I can help you.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie arched a quizzical brow at Richie’s offer. “Oh yeah? You know how to wash clothes? You don’t know how to iron 'em.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shrugged, grinning gently. “Okay, maybe not that. But I can help with the garden. But first I think we should just take a break. Relax a little. Ain’t Sunday supposed to be a day of rest or somethin’?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes, it is,” Annie agreed, her blue eyes sparkling as she smiled up at Richie. “So a little break, huh?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Hmmm. I don’t know. I got an <i>awful</i> lot to do.” Her protest was coy as her hands slipped forward to his belt buckle. Her fingers tugged gently, pushing the leather strap against the metal square as she worked to unfasten the belt.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie sucked in a sharp breath as his dick jumped at the attention of her hands. “Annie… uh… c’mon. You can.. can relax a little… first. Right?” Her actions were making it difficult for him to form a cogent argument.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chuckled as she succeeded in unfastening Richie’s belt and deftly popped open the snap under his buckle. She felt the heat of his groin as she nudged the zipper downward, the metal teeth parting with a soft, slow grate. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I really need to get goin’ on the wash. It’s gonna take all afternoon to dry on the line.” Though her voice was calm and silky, Annie’s pulse was racing. She had spent the whole church service watching Richie, remembering how glorious he looked naked in the moonlight. And daydreaming about a little afternoon interlude, once she got him alone.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Now there was nobody here but the two of them. And they had nothing but time.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">OH!</i> Annie!” Richie gasped with delighted surprise when Annie’s hand slipped into the fly of his jeans, cupping his already-fully-formed erection over his briefs. He silently cursed the Catholic guilt-based modesty that had inspired him to wear underwear to church this morning.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Thought maybe I’d do a load of your things too. Since a lot of ‘em seem to be a little… musty.” Annie chuckled as she remembered the wadded-up garments Richie had produced from his ruck this morning. “But <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">first</i>…” She gave Richie a wicked smirk, then gracefully sank down until she knelt in front of him. Her hand slipped from his crotch to grasp his hip as she regarded from eye-level the ample bulge in his open fly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s eyes widened as he watched Annie’s tongue slide slowly across her plump bottom lip before she continued her declaration.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“We need to get you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">out</i> of these clothes…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-52509788301706267502011-06-10T21:00:00.067-04:002011-06-11T09:33:15.050-04:00Chapter 23<div class="MsoNoSpacing"></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie swiped a hand across the vanity mirror, rubbing away the condensation that obscured his reflection. His deep brown eyes stared back at him from the glass. Only today they looked different. Brighter. Happier.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His lips curved upward as he regarded himself. The young man in the mirror wasn’t the got-the-world-by-the-balls kid of just months ago, but he looked a damn sight better than the sad visage of even the day before. Yesterday he had looked tired and worried. Today he looked hopeful.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The reason for this happy change was singing in the next room.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Turning his face from side to side, Richie decided he didn’t need to shave. He could hardly see the light stubble on his smooth cheeks. Skipping to the end of his routine, Richie splashed a modest amount of aftershave into his palms and patted it onto his face. He straightened, pulling his fingers through his damp brown locks one last time, then tugged open the bathroom door.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie rounded the corner into the living room and tossed his shaving kit into the open mouth of his ruck before turning toward the sound of Annie’s singing. Following her sweet voice, Richie wandered down the little hall to her bedroom. He paused in the doorway. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie stood smiling back at him across an ironing board still warm with steam, the softly-hissing iron sitting upright next to her hand. She was still wearing just her silky slip and lacy undergarments. Her now-dry hair shone a soft gold in the dim natural light that filtered through the sheer curtains. Richie’s white dress shirt lay neatly smoothed across the board’s surface, all evidence of its previous wadded state erased.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well don’t you clean up nice?” Annie chortled teasingly, noting the careful part in Richie’s combed-straight hair. She felt her pulse flutter at the delicious aroma of his aftershave as her eyes dropped to the little silver cross gleaming against Richie’s neck.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie ducked his head with a self-conscious little shrug. “Hope I’ll look okay for church,” he mumbled.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’ll look just fine.” Annabelle picked up the freshly-pressed shirt and gracefully slipped around the ironing board. She held up the crisp garment in invitation. “Here ya go.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie stepped forward and turned, slipping one arm into a long sleeve, then the other. He smiled at the gentle brush of Annie’s fingers as she smoothed the warm fabric across his broad shoulders. His fingers fumbling with a button, Richie turned to face her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Thanks. I’ve never been good at ironing.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chuckled. “Have you ever even <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tried</i> to iron a shirt?” She suspected she already knew the answer to that question.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uhhh… well….” Richie smiled sheepishly. “No. My Ma used to iron my clothes.” He shrugged. “I don’t usually wear nothin’ but t-shirts and jeans, so I don’t really need to iron.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie reached for Richie’s chest, stilling his clumsy fingers with a gentle touch. Nudging his hands aside, she deftly pushed the little button through the hole in the placket. Her nimble fingers traveled downward, buttoning the white shirt over Richie’s trim torso. When the task was done she rested her palms lightly against his chest and raised her eyes to his with a warm smile. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You need a woman takin’ care of you, huh?” Her tease was gentle.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shrugged and smiled back. “Guess so.” He raised a hand to brush his fingers across her pretty cheek. “I like having somebody to take care of me.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s heart melted at the tenderness in Richie’s voice. She gazed into his warm brown eyes for a long moment before lowering her hands with a happy little sigh. She brushed past him, moving over to the small closet in the corner of the tidy bedroom. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">As he tucked the bottom of his neatly-ironed dress shirt into the waist of his jeans Richie turned to watch Annabelle. She pulled a long strip of dark material from a peg on the closet wall and held it up for inspection, running her fingers lightly over the fabric before turning back to Richie and giving him another warm smile. It took Richie a few seconds to recognize that the item in Annie’s hands was a necktie.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Here. ” Annie stepped close to Richie, handing him the thin, plain black tie. Her hands slipped around his neck as she gently flipped up the starched collar of his shirt. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Where… Who… Is this <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">yours</i>?” Richie frowned slightly as he looked down at the item in his hands. Why the hell did Annabelle have a man’s tie in her closet if she lived here alone?</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chortled at the tinge of poorly-veiled jealousy in Richie’s question. She gently took the tie from his hands and looped it around his neck, sliding it against his upturned collar until it was properly positioned.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.” She smirked a little as she purposely held a long pause while she fastened the button on the band of Richie’s collar. Her eyes sparkled as they met his. “It was my Pappy’s. He used to like to dress up on Sundays. A real proper Southern Gentleman.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh.” Richie felt a little wave of shame at his assumption. “Sorry. You were close? You and your… um… Pappy?” He squirmed a little at using the pet term for Annie’s Grandfather.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s smile gentled, her eyes following her hands as she crossed the two ends of the tie, looping them into a loose knot over Richie’s chest. “Yeah. I loved him dearly. When I was little he used to take me to the A & W for root beer every Saturday.” She chuckled at the happy memory, then sighed quietly. “He took good care of Mama and me, as long as he could.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“He’s… gone?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie nodded as her fingers worked the knot. “ ‘Bout a year before Mama. Heart attack.” She tightened the knot and slid it up close against Richie’s throat, then gently turned down his collar. She smoothed her fingers down the tails of the thin tie and smiled. “There.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie…” Richie reached up to capture her delicate hand, pulling it gently against his chest. He gave her a long, sincere look. “I’m sorry. About your Ma, and your Pappy.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie gazed back at Richie, her heart squeezing at the earnestness in his expression. Her smile turned bittersweet. “Thank you, Richie. But it’s okay, really. Time heals.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Not knowing what to say to that, Richie just nodded. They stood together in silence for a long moment, then Annie gently tugged her hand from under Richie’s. “We really do need to get goin’.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay.” Richie stepped back as Annie turned again to the little closet, where a light green dress hung from a hook on the closet door. “Uh… I’ll wait out on the porch.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Alright. I’ll just be a minute.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shoved his hands into his jeans pockets as he wandered through the little house and out onto the porch. He leaned against a white-painted column and gazed out at the marsh, not seeing its early-day splendor as he reflected on what he had learned about Annie just this morning. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She was alone. Annie had suffered such sadness in her young life, losses that Richie couldn’t begin to comprehend. Yet here she was, smiling and gentle and open-hearted. Her life now obviously wasn’t easy by any means, yet she didn’t complain. And she had extended her kindness and affection to a complete stranger who was down and out, lost in more ways than one. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie felt a wave of guilt wash over him as he recognized his selfishness. Here he was brooding over his future, sulking because his life wasn’t going as he hoped, his dreams weren’t materializing before his very eyes. Pouting about having to face up to the reality that his future didn’t hold fame and fortune. Instead his fate would be a simple, honest life, surrounded by friends and family. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He shouldn’t be depressed, he should be thankful. Thankful that he had a home to return to and a family to welcome him back with open arms. It was so much more than many people had, and yet they didn’t sulk or complain. They didn’t give up. They just accepted the truth and made peace with themselves and their fate.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie sighed as his heart twinged with self-loathing. Maybe he was just too spoiled or selfish to find that peace. Or maybe he didn’t deserve it. He just knew that, as much as he loved and admired his parents, he dreaded walking back in the door of their cozy little home and admitting he had failed. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ready?” Annie’s soft voice made Richie start. Quietly clearing his throat, he forced a smile to his lips before turning to face her. His expression was less of an effort when he saw her, dressed in her summery green dress and white high-heeled shoes. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah.” Richie’s smile gentled. “You look really pretty.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s eyes sparkled as a light blush tinged her cheeks. “Thank you,” she breathed modestly. She and Richie gazed at each other for a long minute, then she held out the plastic wrap-covered plate in her hand. “Could you take these? Kinda hard to hold ‘em while I drive.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie jumped to accept the platter of deviled eggs. “Sure.” He grinned sheepishly. “Sorry. Guess I’m not much of a gentleman.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie smiled at his self-deprecating apology. “Nonsense. Your manners are lovely, Mr. Sambora.” She leaned up to brush a light kiss across Richie’s lips before moving past him, down the porch steps and toward the driveway.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie sighed softly as the sweet strawberry flavor of Annabelle’s lip gloss slickened his lips. His tongue slipped across his lower lip, tasting the residue of her kiss. Then, with a grin and a little shake of his dark head, Richie turned to follow her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">***** </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie took a deep breath and followed Annabelle up the sidewalk toward the big white church. He could feel curious eyes on him as he carefully carried the platter of eggs. He remained quiet while Annie exchanged Sunday morning greetings with families lingering in the shade of moss-draped cypress trees on the church’s front lawn.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie tried to keep his eyes up, away from the tantalizing sway of Annie’s hips as she preceded him toward the church steps. But he couldn’t stop himself from stealing a glance. His lips curved upward as his eyes slid over her shapely derriere and down the backs of her thighs. Richie’s groin tightened appreciatively at the sexy click of her high heels against the concrete.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mornin’, Sweetheart.” A familiar voice made Richie turn his attention away from Annabelle. He grinned when he recognized the ruddy face of the big man approaching them.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Good Mornin’ Mr. and Mrs. Duvall,” Annie replied formally, then giggled as she accepted a kiss on the cheek from Eddie. “How are you this fine Sunday mornin’?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Happy to be here, Praise the Lord.” The big man turned his grin to the lanky young man at Annabelle’s side. “And lookie who you got in tow!” Eddie Duvall extended a beefy hand to Richie. “Mornin’, Son.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mornin,’ Sir.” Richie quickly shifted the plate of eggs to his left hand, then accepted Eddie’s handshake.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie, my wife Marlene.” Eddie introduced the petite blonde woman at his side. “Marlene, this is the boy I told you ‘bout, who helped me out at the station yesterday.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Of course. Hello, Richie.” Mrs. Duvall gave him a warm smile.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ma’am.” Richie nodded his head, blushing slightly at the recognition.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Eddie gave Richie a questioning look. “Thought you said you was Catholic? Or did Annie here talk you into convertin’?” He winked and chuckled as Richie’s flush deepened.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I invited Richie to come to church with me this mornin’,” Annie explained firmly, slipping her arm around Richie’s. “He said he’d like to hear our choir.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie just nodded mutely, going along with her explanation.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, Richie, they’re just <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">wonderful.</i>” Marlene smiled even more broadly at Annie’s fib. “And our Annabelle, she sings like an angel. You won’t be disappointed, I’m sure.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smiled at the kind woman’s enthusiasm. “No ma’am, I’m sure I won’t.” His pulse jumped at the little squeeze Annie gave his arm in response.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Say, Richie. Chick got your thermostat over to me late yesterday.” Eddie’s eyes dropped briefly to Annie’s hand on Richie’s arm, catching the silent gesture of affection between the two. He returned his gaze to Richie’s face, his brow creasing with as he carefully watched the young man’s expression. “I’ll get to work on it first thing in the mornin’. Should be able to get you back on the road by afternoon, if that works for you.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Umm…” Richie shifted uncomfortably at the questioning note in Eddie’s last statement. “That’s cool. I mean… I’m not in any hurry... to get on the road, that is. Whenever you can get to it is fine.” He shuffled his feet, suddenly feeling like Eddie had put him on the spot. “I can come by and help you again, if it’s okay.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Fine by me. Can always use an extra pair of hands around the shop.” Eddie glanced at Annabelle and saw in her quiet smile that she wasn’t eager for Richie to leave, either. In fact, Eddie was willing to bet Annie would be perfectly content if he delayed Richie’s engine repair by another month or so.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Eddie chortled quietly, then responded to his wife’s gentle tug at his arm. “Alright, we’d best get inside. I’m on the Collection this week.” Eddie gave the young couple another broad grin. “We’ll see ya after the service. Annie, you know I’ve been lookin’ forward to your deviled eggs all week.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie laughed. “I’ll see to it that we save one for ya, Eddie.” She stood smiling next to Richie as the Duvalls turned and headed for the church’s open front doors.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Nice lady,” Richie observed. “Eddie’s wife.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah. She’s a sweetie.” Annie sighed softly and turned her smile to Richie. “She’s always taken care of me, even when I was a little girl. I used to sleep over at their house all the time.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie nodded silently, only half-hearing Annie’s words. Instead he felt his gut tighten as he realized that tomorrow he would be on his way back home to Jersey. Away from Annie, toward his unremarkable future.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie saw the little flicker of sadness flash across Richie’s handsome features. She chose to ignore it, instead giving his arm another little squeeze. “Come on, now. Let’s get these eggs in to the Fellowship Hall with the rest of the food. Then I gotta get my choir robe on and get up with the rest of the singers. Service is gonna start in about fifteen minutes.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay.” Richie nodded and gave her a little smile. “So, I guess I don’t get to sit with you, huh?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No. Sorry. Unless you wanna put on a choir robe and join us up in the front.” Annie giggled softly, he blue eyes gleaming. “You could certainly pull it off, from what I heard last night.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chuckled as he felt his cheeks warm with a little blush. “Nah. I wouldn’t know any of the words. I don’t really pay attention in church, even when I go with my folks.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Too busy checkin’ out cute girls, huh?” Annie teased. “Dreamin’ of Sin in the House of the Lord? How many Hail Marys you gotta say for that?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s smile broadened. “A bunch, I guess. Not that I ever get around to it. Confession ain’t my strong suit.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie leaned in close, her eyes sparkling. “But sinnin’ sure is.” Her low, husky voice made Richie’s heart skip a beat. She gave him a conspiratorial smirk, then stepped back. “Now come on. Don’t wanna be late.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes ma’am,” Richie answered contritely, with a hint of sarcasm. He grinned as he anticipated her response.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie, what did I tell you ‘bout calling me ‘ma’am’?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sorry…. Ma’am.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie gave Richie a faux-glare, then clasped her hands and rolled her eyes to the Heavens. “Lord, this one needs some extra attention,” she prayed playfully. “Touch him today, show him the Light.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Amen,” Richie laughed.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“C’mon, Hippy-Boy. Let’s get you inside so God can get to work.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Without further argument Richie followed Annabelle up the stone steps and into the church. Once inside Annie led him through a small corridor off the entry, to a large room where a group of ladies bustled about setting out plates of food on long folding tables. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After smiling through introductions, Richie surrendered the platter of deviled eggs to a plump woman in a pink dress and flowery hat. With hasty apologies and a promise to chat more after the service, Annie hustled Richie out of the Fellowship Hall and down another small wood-paneled corridor. They emerged into another tiny room, no bigger than a large walk-through closet, that was lined on both sides with hanging racks of white choir robes.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The robe-room was occupied by two middle-aged women donning their robes. Again Annie introduced Richie with a sweet smile, then she tugged a robe from a wire hanger. Trying to be gentlemanly, Richie quickly stepped forward to take the garment from Annie’s hands. He held it up by the shoulders as she slipped quickly into the snowy white gown, covering her pretty green dress.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie blushed again when the watching women voiced their approval of his chivalry before making their departure, leaving Richie and Annie alone in the little room.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie fastened the last hook on the front of her choir robe and smoothed it with her hands. “Okay, now I gotta leave you on your own for awhile.” She gave Richie a little grin. “You ain’t gonna bolt outta here on me, are ya?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Not a chance.” Richie returned Annie’s smile. “I want to hear you sing.” Glancing quickly over his shoulder to ensure they were alone, Richie stepped in close to Annie, his hands moving to her waist. “You look beautiful.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chortled softly and circled her arms around Richie’s waist, her eyes gleaming with mischief. “You look pretty darned good yourself,” she replied. “I’m the envy of all the ladies here, you know. Got myself a tall, dark and handsome date for church this week.” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie pressed her body against Richie’s, raising her face to his. “You’re gonna be the object of a <i>whole </i>lotta sinful thoughts out there in that congregation, you know.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chuckled. “Oh yeah. Right.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Trust me.” Annie’s voice dropped to a sultry purr. “Them girls are gonna be out there undressin’ you in their minds while Reverend Purdy is preachin.’ Daydreamin’ about how pretty your eyes are, how soft your hair is, how hard your… <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">muscles</i>… are….” She leaned up to brush her mouth against Richie’s. “How sweet your lips taste…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie groaned softly as he submitted to her kiss. He felt his cock jump at the press of her hips against his and in reaction to her naughty tease. Richie gasped breathlessly when their lips parted. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie… We’re in… in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">church.</i>”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly. “Yeah. I was overcome by the Spirit.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie snorted softly. “Sure you were. Jeez… Fuck, Annie.” Richie caught his blasphemous swear just in time, instead replacing it with a non-Commandment-breaking word. “How am I supposed to go out there <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">now</i>? I can’t walk into a strange church with a boner. Especially not when everybody here knows I’m with You.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled again and pressed another kiss against Richie’s soft lips. “Just wait ‘til you hear the organ music, then slip in from the back. Sit in one of the last pews. Nobody'll bother you.” She gently disengaged herself from Richie’s embrace, then stepped back. Annie smiled and again smoothed her hands over her white choir robe.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie blew out a long breath, willing the throbbing in his crotch to diminish. “Okay.” He chuckled and shook his head, smiling back at Annabelle. “You’re naughty.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“But the Lord loves me anyway,” Annie chuckled flippantly. She gave Richie another, more gentle smile. “I’m in the second row of the choir loft, not quite in the middle. I’ll look for you.” She took a step back, then turned to exit the open doorway at the opposite side of the robe closet. Annie paused, smirking back at Richie over her shoulder.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, and Richie… I’ll be daydreamin’ about you during the sermon too. But my daydreams will <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">real</i> memories, not fantasies.” With that, Annie turned and disappeared around the corner.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>“Fuuuuuck….”</i> Richie groaned quietly as his body reacted to Annabelle’s words. Automatically his hand went to his crotch, covering his erection with a firm palm. He sucked in and blew out a couple long breaths, desperately willing his arousal to subside, at least enough for him to slip into the church and sit somewhat comfortably for the duration of the service.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After a couple minutes Richie was calmed enough to move. He retraced his path through the little corridor from the Fellowship Hall, then back around to the front foyer of the church. Just as he reached the entrance he heard the first grand notes of the pipe organ, followed by the rustling movement of the congregation standing.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie peeked around the door frame before slipping through the entrance and into the back of the church. Quietly he moved along the back wall to the far corner and into the last pew. He stood silent through the unfamiliar hymn, then lowered himself onto the wooden bench when the rest of the congregation sat. Richie pulled a hymnal from the rack on the pew back and settled it on his lap, trying to cover what was still an obvious bulge under his fly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Thankfully there were no other occupants of the back row, so he didn’t have to fidget through the service in close quarters. His nearest neighbor was a young couple with a little girl seated two pews in front of him. The child, about two years old in Richie’s estimation, watched him curiously as she stood between her parents, facing the back of the room. At Richie’s smile and little wave she bashfully turned away, sliding down to her seat.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With another deep breath Richie raised his eyes to the front of the church. He immediately found Annie in the middle of the small choir loft, her honey-blonde hair shining in the soft light let in through the stained-glass windows flanking the sanctuary. She saw his gaze and responded with a sparkling smile. Again Richie’s groin tightened.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus, get it together.</i> Richie immediately winced at his silent swear. He really needed to remember he was in church. It’s not like the idea was foreign to him; having been raised on Catholic Mass he knew the rules. And obviously the guilt had taken root, since he felt a little ashamed at being turned on by a girl while he sat in a Holy House.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But this wasn’t just any girl. This was Annie. Beautiful, kind, sexy Annie. The woman who had soothed his soul and captured his heart.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smiled again as he watched Annabelle sit primly in the choir loft, holding a hymnal on her lap and turning her eyes to the preacher, who was now leading the morning greeting from his place at the pulpit. She really did look beautiful, in her snowy white robe with her golden hair falling gently against her shoulders. Radiant. Like an angel.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Like she had looked last night, the moonlight glistening on her bare skin as she smiled down at him from under her cowboy hat. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shifted uncomfortably on the wooden bench. This was gonna be a long service if he couldn’t focus on something other than Annabelle. Maybe coming to church with her wasn’t such a good idea after all.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He took a deep breath and turned his head toward the tall stained glass windows. Richie let his eyes wander over the vibrantly-colored glass, trying to identify the scenes depicted in the long panes. He recognized a few of the Biblical figures, but others he couldn’t place. The windows weren’t ornate like the ones back home at St. Anthony's, but they were elegant in their simplicity, matching the design of this small-town church.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s eyes wandered from the windows to the pews beneath them. The church was almost full, all but the back few pews lined with worshippers. Richie regarded the backs of bald and behatted heads, and long and short locks of hair in every color. He noticed there were many children in the congregation, from babies to teenagers. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Sunday was always for family in Richie’s house. Even when his Dad was working two jobs, he always insisted on spending time with his wife and son on the Holy Day. Church in the morning, Sunday dinner with aunts and uncles and cousins, then football or baseball on TV. In the summer, maybe a drive down the Shore for Italian ices.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smiled gently at the happy memories of watching the New York Football Giants on Sunday afternoon, the men drinking beer on the couch and the kids crowded around the TV on the floor while the women cleared up the remains of Sunday dinner. Even as a teen he had looked forward to Sunday with his Old Man, despite his self-declared independence.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">That was one of the things he missed, being away from home. Sundays with his Dad.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie blinked away the mistiness from his eyes. Soon he would have more Sunday afternoons in his parents’ house. Many more. The realization made his heart heavy. As much as he loved his parents, Richie just couldn’t bring himself to be happy about going home. It meant the start of another life, and the end of one for which he had such high hopes.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The sound of movement from the front of the church drew Richie’s attention back to the service. The choir had stood from their seats and raised their hymnals in preparation for song. Richie’s gaze settled on Annie as the piano notes floated quietly through the air, introducing the hymn. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">There’s within my heart a melody<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus whispers sweet and low<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fear not, I am with thee, peace, be still<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">In all life’s ebb and flow<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie returned the little smile Annie gave him, his heart skipping a beat at her beauty. His doubts about the wisdom of accompanying her here faded away as he watched her pretty pink lips circle in song. Richie could think of no place he’d rather be right now, than here with Annabelle.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus, Jesus<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sweetest name I know<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fills my every longing<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Keeps me singing as I go<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s lips parted in a little gasp of surprise when the choir went silent for the second verse, except for Annabelle. Her sweet solitary voice floated out across the sanctuary, straight to Richie’s heart.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">All my life was wrecked by sin and strife<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Discord filled my heart with pain<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus swept across the broken strings<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Stirred the slumbering chords again<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus, Jesus<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sweetest name I know<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fills my every longing<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Keeps me singing as I go<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie and Annie’s eyes met across the big, airy room. His heart squeezed at her silent message of comfort and encouragement. A gentle smile curved his lips as again his eyes moistened.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The choir joined again for the next verse, then the final stanza was sung by an older man. Once the hymn was completed the choir quietly took their seats and Reverend Purdy again addressed his flock. Richie watched Annabelle return her attention to the preacher, and he tried to follow her example.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He only lasted a few minutes. Again first Richie’s mind wandered, then his eyes. He saw several other restless parishioners stealing curious glances at him, including a few faces he recognized from his stint at Eddie’s service station yesterday. Realizing he was under scrutiny, Richie tried again to concentrate on Reverend Purdy’s sermon.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">But soon Richie found his gaze again on the little family in front of him. The little girl was peering over the back of the pew at him, innocently flirting with his attention. Again Richie gave her a little wave, but this time she didn’t turn away. She smiled back at him before burying her face in her mother’s sleeve, then peeking back out at Richie. Her bright blue eyes sparkled happily.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Seeing that her daughter was distracting the quiet young man behind them, the young mother pulled the child onto her lap. She gave Richie a smile and a mouthed “Sorry” before exchanging a warm look with her husband. The man scooted closer to the woman and slipped his arm along the back of the pew, encircling his family in his loose embrace.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The realization hit Richie like a lightning bolt. Someday soon he would be like that young father, dressed up in his Sunday clothes, sitting in a church pew next to a pretty wife holding a beautiful child on her lap. He was looking at his future life, seeing it all around him as he sat in this little church in this town full of kind and generous and simple people. Happy people.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s gaze went back to Annabelle. She smiled at him, her blues eyes sparkling bright in the soft sanctuary light. As bright and beautiful as the blue eyes of the little girl on her mother’s lap.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Maybe this was where he belonged. Maybe Karma had acted in the form of a blown engine thermostat. Maybe Fate had brought him to Darien, and to Annie.<br />
<br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Maybe his future was here.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p> </div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-22777608915216201542011-05-20T21:00:00.043-04:002011-05-21T21:24:36.379-04:00Chapter 22<div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie woke to the sound of singing. It was soft and sweet and accompanied by the quiet patter of falling water.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Slowly his eyes eased open, first a crack, then more fully when they were not assaulted by brightness. He blinked sleepily as his groggy brain struggled to comprehend the sensory inputs it received from his eyes and ears. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s gaze focused on an object in the dusky greyness of the room. After peering at it for a long minute he realized what it was and why it was in his line of vision. He smiled at the little brown teddy bear nestled on the oak rocking chair next to the bed. Next to Annie’s bed.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s eyes drifted back shut as his smile widened. Images of the night before floated through his mind like flashes of a movie. Annie smiling up at him as they danced, grinning mischievously as she offered him a joint, her eyes sparkling as she dared him to kiss her… and her face aflush with passion as they made love under the night sky.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His fingers curled over the cotton sheet draped across his body, as if looking for tactile confirmation that it had all really happened. That he was really here, in Annie’s bed. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Bunching the sheet into his palm Richie let out a little sigh of contentment, remembering how she had wordlessly invited him into her bed when they returned home after their romantic, erotic encounter on the beach. Annie had simply taken his hand and led him past the couch where he had slept the night before, down the little hallway to her room. Then they had slowly and tenderly undressed each other before easing down onto the soft linens and into each other’s arms.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie couldn’t remember the last time he had slept so peacefully.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Hearing the steady rush of water, Richie’s gaze drifted from the rocking chair to the small window behind it. Realizing the roll-up shade was illuminated from behind with bright sunlight, Richie squinted slightly. It took him a minute to realize the gentle patter he heard was coming from the other side of the bedroom wall, not from outside.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie was in the shower.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">That thought fully awakened Richie, a little jolt of awareness firing through his groin. He smirked slightly before stretching, then craned his neck to look at the alarm clock on the bedside table. His smirk turned to a grimace as he evaluated the positions of the hands on the clock’s face. Why the Hell was Annie up and showering at 8:15 on a Sunday morning? </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The obvious answer eluded Richie for a moment as his mind was filled with delicious thoughts. When he again heard Annie’s voice in song he realized the answer to his own question.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Precious Lord, take my hand<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lead me on, let me stand…<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh,” Richie murmured to himself. Of course. It was Sunday. Annie was getting ready to go to church. That’s why she was up and about so early, after falling into bed just a few hours before.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"> </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie chuckled quietly as he realized that’s what most normal people did on Sunday morning, got up and went to church. It certainly wasn’t his habit anymore, much to his mother’s chagrin. But 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. Anthony’s wasn’t exactly compatible with the nocturnal schedule of a Jersey Shore musician. And since he had been in the South Richie hadn’t bothered to find a church. His worship had taken place in dingy barrooms and musty studios, with his guitar on his knee.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A little stab of pain in his heart reminded Richie of his reality. He wouldn’t have that excuse to avoid church services any longer, once he returned home. It would delight his Ma to have him sitting in the pew next to her every Sunday, kneeling and bowing and going through the motions. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Next Sunday he would be at St. Anthony’s, in body if not in spirit. The Wayward Son returned to the flock. Richie was sure Father Francis would welcome him back with open arms and absolve him of his sins.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Of which there were many. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie shook his head to clear the depressing thought from his brain. For a long minute he lay still, listening to Annie’s melodic hymn. She had told him she wasn’t particularly religious, but she obviously still observed the Sunday ritual.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With another sigh Richie rolled onto his back. He stared up at the ceiling, watching the fan revolve lazily above him. A gentle smile played over his lips as he pictured Annabelle under the running water, massaging shampoo into her hair and stroking the pink bar of soap he had noticed yesterday over her dewy skin. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With a big yawn and another long stretch Richie contemplated his options; to stay in bed and wait for Annie to return or to get up and greet her with a morning kiss and maybe a cup of coffee. The first sounded more appealing; the second required effort.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">It wasn’t long before Richie’s body made his decision for him. The pressure in his bladder finally forced him to squirm with discomfort. He really needed to take a leak. But the water was still running in Annie’s shower and she was still singing. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Despite their intimacy last night Richie wasn’t quite sure Annabelle would appreciate him just barging into her bathroom and taking a piss in her toilet while she was naked just a foot or two away. Annie had certainly surprised him with her brashness last night, but sharing bodily functions in a cramped bathroom was a level of familiarity Richie was reasonably certain he and Annie had not yet reached.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After another minute Richie realized he could no longer ignore Nature’s Call. Kicking free of the tangled sheet, he swung his legs over the side of the bed and heaved himself off the mattress. Absently scratching at his left buttock, Richie trudged naked down the little hallway, through the living room, and out onto the porch. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With a hurried glance around the yard to be sure there were no unexpected onlookers, Richie quickly dismounted the porch steps and moved to the side of the house. He groaned with relief as he emptied his bladder, directing a long and steady stream of urine onto the earth next to a blooming rose bush.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His most urgent business done, Richie retreated back into the house, dragging a hand through his long tangle of dark hair as he went. Once inside he rummaged around in his rucksack until he found a pair of grey knit basketball shorts, which he quickly donned. Minimally clothed, Richie yawned again and scratched at his chest. Then he turned for the kitchen.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">As he wandered through the arched doorway Richie heard first Annie’s singing, then the shower, stop. He smirked again as he pictured Annie drying herself with one of her fluffy pink towels. Less than a minute later he heard the muffled <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">click</i> and a dull <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">crack</i> as Annie inched open the bathroom’s wooden door just enough to allow the shower steam to escape. Inside his skimpy gym shorts Richie’s dick twitched in agreement with his smirk.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"> When he turned to the stove Richie found a coffee pot warming on the back burner and a cup, spoon, sugar bowl, and a little pitcher of creamer on the adjoining counter. Annie’s thoughtfulness made Richie smile as he fixed himself a mug of the fresh brew. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie took a sip of the hot beverage, then swore as it seared his tongue. Grumbling as he moved to the refrigerator, he pulled open the freezer compartment and pried an ice cube from the bin inside. He dropped the cube in the cup and watched it shrink as he swirled the coffee around it. A couple seconds later he again sipped from the cup. This time he was satisfied.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Swallowing a mouthful of the now-lukewarm beverage, Richie moved over to the little kitchen table under the window. The lilac bloom was still in the Mason jar, its light scent perfuming the room. Next to the jar sat two items that made Richie’s eyebrows arch with curiosity. One was a large plastic-wrap-covered platter of deviled eggs, their creamy yellow yolks freckled with rusty paprika. The other was a worn, leather-bound Bible.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Setting his coffee mug down on the table, Richie reached for the Bible. He brushed his fingertips over the embossed cover, slowly tracing the letters as he read them: W-H-I-T-T-A-C-R-E. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Whittacre.</i> His lips pursed lightly as he wondered if that was Annabelle’s family name.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Carefully Richie picked up the heavy volume, cradling it in his left hand as the fingers of his right hand ruffled the thin, gilt-edged pages. The tissue-thin paper made a faint crackling noise as the pages parted. Richie noticed a red ribbon marked the spot to which the book fell open. The marked page was different from its neighbor, made of thicker paper and colorfully decorated. Neat cursive writing in faded ink filled the lines with names and dates. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Gently Richie turned the page to find another pair like it, then another and another. He saw that this was clearly a family Bible that had been passed down through generations. The center plate was filled with the record of births, deaths, and marriages of the Whittacre family. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s lips curved into a tender smile as he read the last name listed on the last page<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">: Annabelle Emmeline Foster, born 24th December, 1957. </i>Her birthday was on Christmas Eve. Somehow that seemed fitting. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His eyes were drawn to the line above Annabelle’s name, to the common surname. Richie scanned the line, then re-read it. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lucy Katherine Whittacre Foster, born 27th August, 1934. Died 24th December, 1973. </i>His heart squeezed with sympathy as he comprehended the significance of the entry.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The last sentence was recorded in different handwriting, in fresher ink. Instinctively Richie knew the handwriting was Annie’s, documenting the date of her mother’s death. Richie’s eyes moistened as he realized Annabelle’s mother had died on her birthday. On Christmas Eve. On a night when most of the world was rejoicing , sixteen-year-old Annabelle had been mourning.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie cleared the little lump from his throat and blinked rapidly. He couldn’t imagine the pain Annie must have endured, losing her mother in such a tragic and painful way. And as a teenager, when her own life must have been so tumultuous. It made her kindness and generosity seem all that much more remarkable.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">And it made his own problems seem petty in comparison. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie gently closed the Bible, careful not to crease or wrinkle the pages, then returned it to its spot on the table next to the lilac blossom. His gaze lingered on its cover as he picked up his coffee mug and took a long drink. Then his eyes raised to the window. Richie stared out at the bright morning sky as his thoughts turned to his home.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He really was fortunate to have parents who were healthy and happy and who loved him unconditionally. Who would welcome him home and tell him they missed him. Who would help get him through the disappointment of leaving behind a dream for reality. Who wouldn’t leave him in such an incomprehensibly tragic way.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Lord works in mysterious ways, Richie</i>. He heard Annabelle’s words from last night in his ears, as clearly as if she was standing there beside him. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Maybe she was right. Maybe he <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">was</i> meant to find her, to learn her story, to let her help him come to terms with his fate. Maybe God had stranded him here in Darien because of Annabelle. And maybe he needed to just give in and go with it, let the Hand of Fate guide him. What was the saying? “Let Go and Let God?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Well good morning, Handsome.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her greeting made Richie smile. He turned around to find Annabelle standing in the arched doorway, smiling back at him. Richie couldn’t conceal a soft gasp of surprise. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She was morning-beautiful, clad only in her dressy undergarments, a creamy silk slip covering a lacy bra and what Richie assumed were matching panties. Her eyes sparkled bright blue, enhanced by the lightest touch of shadow and mascara, and her glossed lips shone in the morning light. Her hair was still damp from her shower, and curled in soft tawny tendrils around her glowing face.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Morning,” Richie breathed. He stared for another second, then snapped to. “Um… thanks for making the coffee.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Welcome.” Annie chuckled quietly and stepped forward. She moved over to Richie and slipped her arms around his waist. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Quickly setting his coffee mug back on the table, Richie enfolded Annie in his arms. He exhaled softly as he reveled again in the feel of her flesh. Richie smiled as Annie raised her face to his, then he sipped gently from her full lips.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You get enough sleep?” he asked quietly after the kiss.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chortled and dropped her cheek against his chest. “No. You?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“I’m okay.” Richie fought back the yawn that seemed to immediately materialize with his fib. He smiled and gave Annie a little squeeze. “What’s with the eggs?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“They’re for the potluck.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Potluck?” Richie’s brows raised in surprise, along with his voice. “What potluck?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Every Sunday we have a potluck lunch in the church basement. Everybody brings a dish to share.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh.” Richie considered that for a moment, then his brow creased again in puzzlement. “When did you have time to make eggs?” He was pretty sure he hadn’t seen a tray of deviled eggs in Annie’s refrigerator last night.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“This mornin’.” Annie chuckled softly, feeling Richie’s surprised reaction in his breath. “I got up early and made ‘em, like I always do.” She grinned. “Even after a late night of mischief-makin’ and gallavantin’.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie laughed softly at her explanation, marveling in her dedication. “Wow. You’re not gonna nod off during the sermon, are you?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.” Annie giggled softly. “I can’t. I’ll be up in the front, with the choir. How the heck would that look, me snoozin' through Reverend Purdy’s preachin’?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Not good.” Richie grinned and gave Annie a little squeeze. “But I have a feeling you’d be forgiven. Just say a few Hail Marys.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie laughed at Richie’s solution. “That’s for Catholics. We Baptists don’t do that Hail Mary stuff. Except on a football field.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“See? Goes to show ya what I know about religion.” Richie pressed a kiss against the crown of Annie’s head. He closed his eyes and smiled as he inhaled the sweet scent of her shampoo. “So, you gonna sing today?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Mmm Hmm. We sing every Sunday.” Annie’s eyes had drifted shut as she snuggled against Richie’s firm chest. She sighed softly, listening to the muffled beat of his heart. She heard it accelerate just slightly as Richie drew in a deep breath.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The question in Richie’s tone made her raise her head to look at him. Silently she arched her brows.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Could I… Do you think… it would be okay if… if I came to church with you?” </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The question surprised Richie, even as it slipped from his lips. The idea had just occurred to him, in the scarce minute he had thought about Annie singing in her church choir. He had no burning desire to worship Jesus or hear the sermon or be Saved on this Sunday morning, or even to try one of her deviled eggs at the potluck lunch. He just knew he wanted to be with Annabelle, wherever she may go.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A warm smile curved Annie’s shiny lips. “I think that would be lovely,” she replied softly. “I’m quite sure Reverend Purdy will be happy to have you join us today.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh… I don’t really have anything to wear.” Richie grimaced slightly, realizing his faux pas. He may not have been in the South for long but he knew folks down here took the phrase “Sunday Best” quite literally. And all his clothes were dirty, wrinkled, or worn.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie chuckled softly, her heart warming at his sheepish expression. “Well, as Otis says, 'God don't care what you wear. He just wants you to show up'." She giggled again and gave Richie a little squeeze. "Besides, I’m sure you got <i>somethin’</i> in that bag over there that'll work just fine.” She tipped her head toward the living room where Richie’s ruck sat unzipped on the floor, a wad of rumpled fabric sticking out of the opening.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“All I have are jeans.” Richie felt a little blush creep to his cheeks. “Not exactly church clothes.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You got a shirt with buttons? One that’s a plain color?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">The little sparkle in her blue eyes made Richie smile. “Yeah. I got a white one.” Reluctantly he released Annie and stepped back. He gave her another gentle brush across the lips before moving for the living room.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie followed Richie into the room and stood watching as he rummaged around in the canvas bag, shoving his arm deep into its recesses. She giggled quietly and covered her grin as he muttered a curse, yanking t-shirts and socks and underwear from the bag and dropping them on the floor. Finally he drew out a white garment by one long sleeve.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Umm… it ain’t exactly church-ready.” Richie’s nose scrunched in distaste as he regarded the heavily-wrinkled shirt. “Shit. Maybe I should just stay home.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No, no...” Annie laughed and reached for the shirt. She tugged it gently from his grasp and gave him a sweet smile. “I’ll take care of it. You go get yourself in the shower, make yourself look like a fine, God-fearin’ Young Man.” She grinned mischievously. “Instead of a wild-ass long-haired guitar-playin’ Hippie Boy.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie laughed at her tease. “You mean try to look respectable, since I’m not.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Exactly.” Annie gave Richie a sly wink. “But of course, when all them folks at church are admirin’ how nice and proper you look, I’ll know better.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie snorted, then grinned playfully. “Yeah, I know you will, Annie Oakley.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her musical laughter warmed his heart. Richie jumped as Annie playfully swatted at him, the wrinkled white shirt smacking against his thigh. “Hey!” he protested.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Alright, you. Go get yourself cleaned up. We ain’t got long ‘til it’s time to leave.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s smile softened as she watched Richie stoop to pick a pair of white briefs, a dingy undershirt, and a pair of rumpled jeans from the pile on the floor. Straightening with the clothing in his hand, Richie leaned over and gave Annie a light peck on the cheek before turning to head for the bathroom door.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With a little sigh Annie pressed Richie’s shirt to her chest, over her heart as it squeezed with happiness. She watched Richie pause to give her a sweet smile before stepping inside the little bathroom and closing the door behind him. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yes, Mama,” she murmured softly, again hearing the gentle voice in her head. “Mysterious ways.” </div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-47936154211411412882011-05-13T21:00:00.009-04:002011-05-13T21:00:00.864-04:00Chapter 21<div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Uh… Uh huh…” Richie groaned softly as he felt his cock thicken in Annie’s grasp. “I think you’re right.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled and released him before leaning forward, bracing her hands against the truck bed on either side of Richie’s waist. Her eyes sparkled as she gave him a saucy smile. “You do, huh?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie watched Annie’s breasts sway over his chest as she dropped her head to kiss him. He grunted again against her mouth as she let her torso lower until her nipples brushed against his chest. His dick throbbed eagerly at the contact.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s breath escaped in a rush when Annie broke the kiss. With another soft giggle she sat back on her heels, letting her hands rest on her thighs for a moment. She smirked as she boldly regarded his now-swollen shaft. “Yee<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">-Haw</i>,” she drawled playfully.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With that Annie raised up on her knees and reached forward. Steadying herself with her hands against Richie’s abdomen she slipped one leg across his thighs, straddling his lap. She settled down upon him, purring delightedly as she purposely shifted a couple extra times, rubbing against him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus</i>!” Richie gasped as he felt her moist lips stroke against his rigid length. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Fuck</i>, Annie…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah, that’s the plan.” Annie chuckled huskily as she smirked down at Richie.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">His eyes meeting hers, Richie grinned. Struggling slightly to push himself up from his elbows, he curled his torso forward until he was sitting half-upright. His hands went to her hips, steadying himself. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ya know, you’re pretty naughty for a sweet, innocent lil’ Southern Belle.” His tease was soft and husky as he reached for her lips.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie drew back, denying his kiss. She gave him a saucy grin. “Who said anything about Southern girls being innocent? Or sweet, for that matter?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ain’t they?” Richie chortled at her challenge. “That’s what they lead the boys to believe, anyway.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s smirk turned wicked. She gave her hips a little pulse, rubbing a little harder against Richie’s cock. She chuckled at his involuntary wince of pleasure. “Well now you’re just makin’ assumptions, based on a stereotype. We ain’t all Scarlett O’Hara, ya know.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie growled softly and leaned further forward, reaching again for her mouth. He couldn’t help but chuckle when she withdrew further, continuing her tease.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, you ain’t all supposed to be demure and blushing and sweet and ladylike?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No.” Annie arched a brow and tilted her head questioningly. “Just ‘cause you’re from New Jersey and you have an Italian name, you supposed to be in the Mafia?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie couldn’t stop a snort of laughter at that. She had nailed him with that sharp tease.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“No,” he laughed. “Touche’. So you ain’t sweet and innocent and I ain’t Mobbed up.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Sounds like we’re a perfect match, then.” Annie’s smile gentled as she raised her hand. Using her thumb to push the brim of her Stetson up away from her face, she drifted forward, offering her lips to him.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah,” Richie breathed as he tasted her lips, kissing her gently before pushing his tongue inside her mouth. He growled softly as he felt Annie’s arms slide around his torso, pulling him closer to her body. The warmth of her breasts pressing against his pecs sent another surge to his groin. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, God…. Annie…” Richie sighed as she slipped her mouth from his to nuzzle at his cheek. He hugged her gently and smiled as her hair swept across his face, filling his nostrils with sweet perfume. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Help me, Richie.” Annie breathed in his ear. She raised herself slightly off his lap, sure he would understand what she meant.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He did. Immediately Richie’s hand slid from her hip to the juncture of her thighs. He smiled at her soft gasp when his fingers slipped between her slick folds, gently stroking across the ready little nub at the fore. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re wet.” His breath against her ear made Annie’s thighs quiver.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah,” she whispered before pulling back enough to stare at him with need-filled eyes. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie gazed back at her for a moment, watching her as he brushed his fingertip across her clit. He swore he saw sparks in the deep midnight pools, like the stars twinkling against the velvety blue sky above. His lips curved upward as he watched her lashes flutter and her lids drop when he pushed his fingers downward, then curled them up inside her.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Oh!</i>” she gasped. The breathy exclamation made Richie’s cock throb. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Unable to help himself, Richie dropped his eyes from Annie’s beautiful face to his hand. He sucked in a sharp breath as he watched his long fingers snake through her tawny curls, playing her. His dick pressed urgently against the back of his hand, its swollen purple head pulsing as his knuckles dragged across the rigid flesh while his fingers delved into Annie’s satiny warmth.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ohhhhh…. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Richie</i>…..” Annie’s husky half-moan made it apparent she was ready for more. With a deep breath Richie turned his hand over, circling his index finger and thumb around his shaft. He carefully pushed his cock forward, angling it against her mound. In response she flexed her thighs, raising herself just a bit more, aligning with him until he was pressing at her entrance.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Easy…” Richie breathed as he watched his head half-disappear into her curls. “Annie… <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ohhh</i>….” He groaned quietly as Annie slowly lowered himself onto him, easing herself down onto the thick pillar of his erection. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from the sight of his cock disappearing into her as she slowly enveloped him. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie stifled a little squeak of discomfort as she took Richie inside her. She didn’t want him to think he was hurting her; he really wasn’t. As she felt herself stretch to sheath him she grunted softly, from pleasure rather than pain. She just had never had a man of his stature before. Annie chuckled quietly to herself at the realization.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Richie… lay back.” She pressed lightly against his pecs.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“But it feels <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i> good….”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly. “Trust me, Darlin’. You won’ t be sorry.” She pushed again at his firm chest, now slicked with perspiration.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">With a half-sigh Richie did her bidding, still gripping her hips as he curled backward until he was again reclining on the blanket. His eyes glowed with eager delight as he gazed up at her nude body, perched on top of his, bathed in moonlight.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie pulled in a deep breath and shifted again on his lap, taking him in a little bit more. This time she couldn’t contain her squeak as she felt the ridge of his head rub hard against the magic spot deep inside her womb. Involuntarily she sucked her lower lip between her teeth.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Relax,” she breathed, almost as much to herself as to Richie. Her hands covered his on her hips, gently prying his long fingers away from her flesh. She guided Richie’s hands to his abdomen and let them rest there. “Let me take care of you.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smiled at her choice of words and what he was sure was an unconscious subtext. She had taken care of him already in so many ways; now she was on the verge of satisfying his most carnal needs. And in doing so, she would most likely take care of her own.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie sucked in and puffed out a long breath, then raised his arms to cradle his hands behind his head. He grinned. “Yes ma’am. Or should I call you Annie Oakley?”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly and again reached up to tug at the brim of her hat. “Well, I don’t have any six-guns, but I can sure ride ‘em, Cowboy.” She gave him a saucy smirk as she rocked her hips forward, making Richie gasp. She paused for a moment, then moved back, then forward again.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Jesus, Annie…” Richie’s hoarse statement trailed off as his senses were filled by her. His ears heard only her breath and her husky purr of pleasure. Her sweet, musky scent made his nostrils flare with desire. Her taste lingered on his lips and in his mouth, leaving him hungry for more. The contact of her flesh against his sizzled through his synapses, blanketing him with heat. And his eyes widened with desire, drinking in her moonlight-dappled naked glory. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She filled him up, leaving him wanting for nothing. Not even sweet release. Not yet.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“You’re so fucking beautiful,” Richie whispered, watching Annie’s round breasts sway with the gentle rock of her hips against his. Behind his head his fingers itched to reach up, to trace the dusky dimpled rosettes of her perfect nipples and feel them contract under his fingertips.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her response was her broadening smile and another little tug at the brim of her hat. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie paused for a moment, savoring the feeling of him under and inside her. She gazed down at Richie’s gorgeous face, masked with wonder. Her soul warmed at his tender expression and at the realization he filled her heart with emotion as amply as he filled her walls with his manhood.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, Richie…” she sighed softly, letting her eyes drift from his face down his body. Her gaze stopped on his belly button, bracketed by her hands resting against his taut, tanned abdomen. She smiled again at the little dimple and at her own happiness.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie?” Richie’s husky almost-whisper carried his question.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She raised her gaze back to his and saw the need in his deep chocolate eyes. “Hang on,” she commanded, giving him a little wink before tensing her thighs, raising herself. She sucked in a breath as she felt him slide half-out of her with the movement, his ridge dragging against her walls. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus</i>, it felt good. She just hoped she could maintain her self-control long enough to give Richie his pleasure. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie gasped at Annie’s slow ascent from his lap, then yelped in surprise as she dropped quickly, driving his cock deeper into her womb. Her walls were so tight around him they felt like elastic, giving just enough for him to move but squeezing him with constant pleasurable pressure. His eyes slipped momentarily closed, then he dragged them back open to focus on Annie. He didn’t want to miss a single glimpse of her erotic beauty.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A quiet giggle mingled with Annie’s whimper of pleasure at her movement. She gave Richie a sultry smile, then with a little toss of her head she again tensed her thighs. Her fingers curled against Richie’s abdomen as she steadied her balance with her hands. She began to pulse up and down on Richie’s cock, riding him. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie grunted softly with her effort, starting with slow, measured movements then quickly picking up speed. With each stroke she felt herself slick more, with each up-and-down motion she lowered herself a little harder. Soon her every downstroke was accented with the moist <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">slap</i> of flesh on flesh as her cheeks impacted Richie’s pelvis. The deliciously dirty sound enhanced her arousal. She moaned softly.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh my <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">GOD,</i> Annie…” Richie gasped raggedly. Of their own accord his hands escaped from behind his head and went again to her hips. He grasped her warm flesh, trying not to grab her too roughly as her gyrations increased in speed and intensity. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus</i>!”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Hang on, Cowboy!” Annie half-laughed, half-panted. Her entire body was tingling with arousal, a fire spreading through her womb as Richie’s shaft seemed to swell even more inside her. She could feel his pulse throbbing inside her, his shaft seeming to flex with his heartbeat. She knew it wouldn’t take long to bring him to orgasm; she just hoped she wouldn’t get there first. She wanted to watch him, to see pure ecstasy of her own making mask his handsome face, before she lost her own senses.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">In response Richie’s fingers dug hard into Annie’s hips. Involuntarily his head thrashed to the side as she bounced hard on his crotch. With almost superhuman effort Richie dragged his face back forward and opened his eyes, focusing on her glowing blue eyes framed by a wild tangle of black-felt-topped honey-blonde hair. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Christ…</i>” he grunted as he felt Annie’s cheeks clench around his balls. He could hardly believe how deep she had taken him. It felt incredible.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">He wanted more. Bending his knees and bracing his heels against the truck bed, Richie thrusted his hips upward, instinctively meeting Annie’s downstroke. Her squeal of surprise ignited him further, encouraging his movement. “God, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ANNIE!”</i> Richie gasped, bucking hard against her, lifting her off her knees with his movement.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Ohhh… My… GOD…. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Richie</i>!!!!” Annie panted. Her eyes widened and she clutched at Richie’s sides, trying to hang on as he took control of their furious movement. As she bounced wildly on Richie’s crotch Annie’s Stetson slid sideways, then tumbled down her back onto Richie’s thighs. She giggled through her gasps as she realized her little ride had suddenly turned into a rodeo event.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">, Annie! </i>I’m gonna come!” Richie gasped. I’m gonna….”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Come <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">on</i>, Baby!” Annie encouraged, her voice breaking with her own arousal. “Let it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">go</i>…” She grinned as she saw Richie’s grimace of release a split-second before she felt him erupt inside her. His cock spasmed hard against her walls, stretching her even further. The shock of exquisite pain momentarily stunned her, then sent her spiraling to higher, to the apex of her desire.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">RIIIIIICHIIIIIEEEEEEE!</i>” Annie wailed as she lost control. Her climax exploded, fireballing out through her synapses and leveling her. It was all she could do to remain upright. Her chin dropped to her chest, her golden mane curtaining her cheeks as she panted. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She sat rigid for a moment, her body clenched with ecstasy around the source of her pleasure. Annie could still feel Richie’s cock pulsing inside her, each little throb like an aftershock. Her heart thundered in her chest as she gasped for air, trying to regain her breath. Then her spine weakened and she slumped forward. She slipped from her knees and collapsed onto Richie’s sweaty chest, her cheek coming to rest on his shoulder and her lips next to his ear.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Oh my God…” she sighed. “That was… was…”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">She felt Richie chuckle under her, the sound rumbling in his chest between his own labored breaths and thudding heartbeat. “Heaven,” he breathed.<br />
<br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Yeah,” Annie sighed in agreement. “Heaven.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smiled and slipped his arms around Annie’s waist, hugging her against him. “You lost your hat,” he remarked with a breathy laugh. He puffed away a damp lock of her hair that fell across his lips.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“It was… a little wilder ride… than I expected,” Annie panted softly. She let out her own husky chuckle before pulling in a deep breath, holding it, then slowly exhaling. She felt her pulse slow a tic as the influx of fresh oxygen filled her lungs and raced through her bloodstream. She repeated the breath, then laughed again. “Didn’t expect a bucking bronco.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie’s laugh was music to her ears, husky and warm. “Well you couldn’t expect me to just lay there. I mean, Jesus, Annie…” He chortled throatily. “Ain’t no man coulda laid still for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i>.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie smiled and turned her lips to Richie’s sweaty chest. She savored the taste of his skin on her lips after pressing a kiss against his pec. “Yeah, it was pretty good from my position too,” She giggled softly. <i>Pretty good? Hell, it was fantastic…</i></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Hey.” Richie’s quiet word told Annie what he wanted. With another breath she raised her head to look at him. His adoring gaze almost stopped her heart.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Thank you.” Richie blinked mistily, receding lust still swirling in his eyes. “I mean it, Annie. Not just for this… for tonight. For all of it. For… I…” His voice faltered as he searched for the right words.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie’s eyes moistened as she smiled back at him, touched by his earnestness. She blinked back happy tears as she reached for him. “You’re welcome,” she whispered against his lips.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">After a long, tender kiss Annie and Richie sighed In unison. Annie dropped her cheek against Richie’s shoulder, snuggling against his chest. She didn’t want to move, to break their union. She wanted to keep him inside her as long as possible, to hold him in her intimate embrace.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">They lay together for a long time, listening to each other breathe and to the radio and the sounds of the night. It was Annie who finally broke the silence. “I wish we could stay here forever.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie smiled at her soft lament. He would like nothing more to remain here in the back of Annabelle’s old truck, cradling her in his arms, feeling her heart beat against his. There was only one other place he could think of on the whole Earth that would be better than this.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Annie… let’s go home.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie smiled at his gentle words. She understood.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“Okay. Home.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-19865612212347467172011-05-06T21:00:00.489-04:002011-05-08T15:50:23.344-04:00Chapter 20Richie winced as he heard the harshness of his tone. He had no right to snap at Annie. She was just trying to help, to encourage him. He closed his eyes, steeling himself for her question: <i>Why?</i><br />
<br />
But it didn't come.<br />
<br />
Richie heard Annabelle let out a soft breath, then he felt her cheek settle again upon his chest. "Oh." The word was so soft it was almost carried away on the breeze.<br />
<br />
Guilt stabbed through Richie's gut at the smallness of her voice. He had hurt Annie's feelings. Goddammit, his stupid, selfish, defensive pride had gotten the better of him again. Why couldn't he just keep his fucking mouth shut and go along with her pretty, well-intentioned lies?<br />
<br />
Richie sighed, frustrated with himself. Maybe Annie didn't mean her encouraging words that way, but that's what they were: unwitting lies. False hopes that like in fairy tales there would be a happy ending and all his dreams would come true. <br />
<br />
Again his heart throbbed with regret as he felt Annie's breath against his skin. Richie gently squeezed her to his side in a one-armed embrace as he dropped his lips against her hair, kissing the crown of her head.<br />
<br />
"Annie, I'm sorry." <br />
<br />
The little squeeze of her hand in his, resting on his chest, was her only reply.<br />
<br />
Annie blinked rapidly, her long lashes brushing against Richie's pec as she listened to his heartbeat under her ear. His words had stunned her more than hurt. <i>I quit.</i> How could that be? Richie had just been up on a stage a couple hours ago, right in front of her very eyes, playing and singing more amazingly than anyone she had ever seen before.<br />
<br />
How could he quit, walk away from something he so obviously loved so much?<br />
<br />
"Annie...." She heard her name rumbling in Richie's chest. Still she didn't answer, unconsciously holding her breath in anticipation of his next words.<br />
<br />
"Annie, please. I didn't mean to bite your head off. I just... it's just...." Richie carefully forced the admission from his lips. "It's hard for me to think about, okay?"<br />
<br />
Annabelle couldn't hold her tongue any longer. "You love playing."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, I do."<br />
<br />
"And you did it tonight."<br />
<br />
"Yeah."<br />
<br />
A long pause hung in the air, the quiet between-song patter of the radio DJ and the rush of the waves breaking heavy silence. When Annie spoke again Richie felt more than heard her words, her voice was so soft.<br />
<br />
"You played tonight for <i>me</i>."<br />
<br />
Richie closed his eyes and gave Annie's hand a squeeze, pressing it against his chest. "Yeah." He swallowed hard, wanting to explain but not quite sure how to say it without sounding like a condescending prick.<br />
<br />
"I wanted to... Uh... To give you something. To thank you for how nice you've been to me, since I've been here. And... well... Richie sighed heavily. "I don't have much to give. I don't even know how the Hell I'm gonna pay Eddie for my car come Monday."<br />
<br />
Again Richie felt Annie's hand move in his, her fingertips curling against his chest. Heartened by the small gesture, he continued. "You seemed to want me to play so bad..." Richie's words trailed off as a little lump formed in his throat. He cleared it away with a husky growl.<br />
<br />
"So I guilted you into playing, huh?" Annie's voice was stronger, but carrying a gentle tease.<br />
<br />
"No." Richie answered honestly. "You didn't guilt me. Seriously, Annie." He sighed again. "To be honest, I really wanted to play. The minute I walked in the door and saw the band, then when Sammy offered..." A little smile curved his lips at the memory of the familiar rush he had felt when he strapped on the gold Gibson. "I <i>wanted</i> to play. Not just for you, but for me too."<br />
<br />
Annie blinked again, not understanding Richie's confession. "Why do you say that like it's a bad thing? Like you're guilty or something?" Curious, she again raised her head to search Richie's expression. "It ain't illegal to play the guitar, you know."<br />
<br />
Her soft, slightly sarcastic observation made Richie snort out a little chuckle in spite of himself. "Yeah, I know." He looked into Annie's beautiful blue eyes and saw her confusion. His heart melted.<br />
<br />
"Annie, I <i>wanted </i>to play, but at the same time I <i>didn't</i> want to. Because I knew it would just make it harder when it was over."<br />
<br />
Annie's brow furrowed as she tried to decipher his words. "What?"<br />
<br />
"I told you how I came down here looking for a job, right? In Memphis?"<br />
<br />
"Yes."<br />
<br />
"And it didn't work out."<br />
<br />
Annie nodded, carefully watching Richie's expression. She felt a pang of sympathy as Richie pulled his gaze from hers and swallowed hard. <br />
<br />
"Annie, I came to Memphis to try to make it as a musician. To try to get somebody to listen to my songs, maybe to record one." Richie's husky voice wavered slightly. "But I failed. Turns out I'm nothin' special. So I'm going back home to Jersey. To get a real job."<br />
<br />
"Richie... I'm sorry."<br />
<br />
Richie shook his head at her sympathetic comfort. "Don't be. It's for the best." He took a deep breath. "I gotta grow up, start acting like a man. Get a job, put some money in the bank." He snorted softly and let a bittersweet half-smile curve his mouth. "Be able to afford a place to live besides the backseat of a piece-of-shit car that breaks down on the side of the road."<br />
<br />
Annie smiled at his attempt at humor. "But Richie... why does that mean you have to quit playin' your guitar? You told me you were in a couple bands, you played at bars and clubs down at the seashore. Why can't you have a day job and play your music at night and on weekends?"<br />
<br />
Richie gazed silently at Annie for a long moment, trying to formulate a gentle answer to her question. Of course he had considered what she proposed, working by day and doing music on his off-time. But what was the point? It's not like it was ever going to be more than a hobby. That much was clear, after his experience in Memphis.<br />
<br />
He sighed. "Because, Annie. As much as I love it, it would be just too hard. To play nothin' but old cover tunes in shithole bars for the rest of my life..." Richie swallowed again as the lump rose in his throat. "It would... I just... couldn't."<br />
<br />
Annie's heart squeezed at the resignation in Richie's husky voice. She pulled her hand from his and reached up to touch his lips with a gentle finger. "Well that's a damned shame. Because if those folks that make records could see what I saw tonight.... Richie, you're somethin' special."<br />
<br />
Richie's eyes moistened. "No, Annie. I'm really not." He blinked rapidly, willing himself not to cry in front of her. "I'm just... ordinary. A stupid, starry-eyed kid who thinks he knows how to be a songwriter, a guitar player." He smiled wanly. "Just 'cause I can play Stairway to Heaven and I have about three fans back in some smoky Jersey dive don't exactly make me a rock star."<br />
<br />
Annie giggled softly and leaned up to brush his lips against his. "Yeah, but now you're more than just a local sensation. You got a whole mess of new fans down here in Darien. Just tonight, just sittin' in with the house band."<br />
<br />
Richie couldn't help but chuckle at Annie's sweet sentiment. "Yeah, well. It was a one-time deal. My farewell gig." He sighed again. "Besides, nobody ever made it big covering other people's stuff. You gotta be original, come up with your own songs."<br />
<br />
Annie pursed her lips and gave him a quizzical look. "But you <i>do </i>write your own songs, right? That's what you told me last night."<br />
<br />
"Yeah." Richie snorted ironically. "At least I used to." He gazed into Annie's eyes for a long moment, watching them swirl deep sapphire. "Truth is, Annie... I haven't written anything in a long time. Months."<br />
<br />
"Why not?"<br />
<br />
Richie shrugged tiredly. "I just... I just lost it, somehow. I can't write, not music, not lyrics... It's gone."<br />
<br />
"Maybe it's just temporary. Like writer's block. I heard that happens sometimes." Annie covered Richie's hand with hers and squeezed gently. "Maybe you just need some new inspiration, is all. It'll come back."<br />
<br />
"No, Annie." Richie shook his head and gave her a sad smile. "Thanks for trying to cheer me up, but you're wrong. I know myself. It's done. <i>I'm</i> done."<br />
<br />
Annie regarded Richie for a long moment, her heart breaking at the resignation she saw in his mournful expression. Then she sighed. "I'm sorry, Richie."<br />
<br />
"S'okay. Not your fault." Richie raised his head, reaching for her lips. She leaned up to meet him and they shared a tender kiss. "But thank you." Richie whispered against Annie's lips.<br />
<br />
Annie blinked back the little tears that sprang to her eyes at his words. She felt Richie's arm tighten around her waist, hugging her closer. "Richie..."<br />
<br />
"Hmm?"<br />
<br />
"The Lord works in mysterious ways, you know."<br />
<br />
Richie blinked at Annie for a long moment, surprised. "Huh? What makes you say that?"<br />
<br />
Annie smiled gently. "I don't know. I just... for some reason I feel like you're here for a purpose, with me. Like you were meant to be here." <i>Because God knows you need me as much as I need you.</i><br />
<br />
Richie returned her smile. "Like Karma, you mean? Fate brought us together?"<br />
<br />
"Call it whatever you want." Annie released Richie's hand and slipped her arm across his waist, dropping her cheek again to his chest as she hugged him. "I'm just glad you wandered into Darien." <br />
<br />
Richie's heart swelled as he pulled her closer. "Me too, Annie." He dropped another kiss against her hair as he blinked rapidly, overcome by a rush of emotion. He felt lighter, as if a stone weight had been lifted from his chest. His moonlight confession to Annabelle had somehow soothed his weary soul.<br />
<br />
And her declaration of belief that they were meant to be together made Richie's heart smile.<br />
<br />
"Richie?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah?"<br />
<br />
Annie giggled softly. "Umm.... I gotta pee." <br />
<br />
Richie couldn't help himself. He burst into laughter at her unexpected comment. "Umm... okay. I guess if you gotta go, you gotta go."<br />
<br />
Annie pushed herself up off his chest, grinning sheepishly. "Sorry. Guess I just ruined that moment, huh?" She shifted beside him until she was sitting on her hip.<br />
<br />
Richie levered himself up onto his elbows and chortled softly. "Yeah, you totally did. But it's okay." <br />
<br />
Annie leaned down to give him a sweet kiss. "Be right back." With that she scooted away from Richie, moving down to the tailgate of the pickup and dangling her legs over the edge. She looked back at him, over her shoulder. "Don't watch, okay?"<br />
<br />
"I won't." Richie sat up and raised his hand, two fingers pressed together and pointed skyward. "Scout's honor."<br />
<br />
Annie laughed again before slipping off the tailgate. Richie watched her move along the driver's side of the truck and pull open the door. "What the Hell are you doing?" he asked playfully. "Gonna drive to the nearest outhouse?"<br />
<br />
"No." Annie leaned into the pickup's cab, ducking from his view. A few seconds later she reappeared, waving a small box of tissues at Richie. "Kleenex. It's a little more complicated for me to take a pee out in nature than it is for you."<br />
<br />
Richie chuckled. "True." He watched Annabelle close the truck's door, then step toward the front of the vehicle. Respectfully he looked in the other direction, turning his gaze to moonlit ocean. <br />
<br />
Richie sighed deeply as he settled back onto this elbows and watched the waves roll onto the small beach. Despite the emotional conversation he and Annie had just shared, he felt good. Relaxed. Mellow. He grinned sheepishly as he realized at least some of his candor had probably come from his chemically-lowered inhibitions. <i>Organic truth serum</i>, he mused with a snort. <br />
<br />
But he didn't mind. Somehow it just felt right to share this with Annie. She understood him. Since Richie had been stranded in this little town Annie had taken care of him. In so many ways, more than he could ever hope to repay her for. She really was his Angel.<br />
<br />
Maybe she was right about fate. Maybe he <i>was </i>meant to find her.<br />
<br />
A familiar tune from the radio brought a smile to Richie's lips. The Stones never failed to lighten his mood, this song in particular. The irony of hearing it now wasn't lost on Richie, considering where he had spent his evening.<br />
<br />
<i>I met a gin-soaked barroom queen in Memphis</i><br />
<i>She tried to take me upstairs for a ride</i><br />
<i>She had to heave me right across her shoulder</i><br />
<i>'Cause I just can't seem to drink you off my mind</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>It's the honky-tonk women</i><br />
<i>Gimme Gimme Gimme </i><br />
<i>The honky-tonk blues...</i><br />
<br />
Richie sat up and stretched to nudge at the volume dial on the little radio. He inadvertently bumped the almost-empty Budweiser can Annie had set on the footlocker, knocking it from its perch. Richie swore as he quickly retrieved the can from its landing place, on the black felt cowboy hat Annie had tossed aside earlier after pulling the feathered roach clip from its band.<br />
<br />
<i>"</i>Fuck<i>,"</i> Richie mumbled as he set the can back on the footlocker. He brushed at the hat, attempting to swipe away the warm beer puddled on its brim.<br />
<br />
"Whatcha doin' there?" <br />
<br />
Annie's playful question made Richie jump. He gave her a guilty look of surprise, then grinned sheepishly. <br />
<br />
"Sorry. I spilled beer on your hat." He gave the dark felt another swipe with his fingers, then dropped the hat on his lap. His attention was quickly diverted from his mistake as he watched Annie settle her nude behind on the tailgate before turning to face him, swinging her legs up into the pickup bed. <br />
<br />
Annie giggled at Richie's half-guilty, half-lustful expression as his gaze fell to her breasts. She curled her knees up beside her, stacking her legs as she rested on her hip, posing for him. She wagged her finger teasingly as she <i>tsked-tsked</i> in response to his confession.<br />
<br />
"That's my favorite hat." She grinned as she looked down at the Stetson in Richie's lap. It was strategically placed, though inadvertently so.<br />
<br />
"Sorry."<br />
<br />
Annie pulled a fake pout. "And now it's stained. You really should be more careful."<br />
<br />
Richie's lips curved upward as he realized she was teasing. "Sorry," he repeated. "I'll clean it for you when we get back to the house." He watched Annie's gaze linger obviously on his lap. Under the Stetson his cock jumped, responding to her attention.<br />
<br />
"Hmmm. Well, okay. Hope you can get that beer stain out." Annie gave Richie a sly smile before crawling forward, settling again on her hip next to him. She raised her hand to gently jab a finger against Richie's chest. "And the other one too."<br />
<br />
"What other one?" Richie leaned back onto his elbows in response to the pressure of Annie's finger between his pecs. He smiled bemusedly at her playfulness as a little jolt of arousal fired through him. He could feel his dick stirring in response to her coy tone.<br />
<br />
"The one that's probably on the <i>inside</i> now." Annie pulled her finger from Richie's chest and shifted to kneel beside him before dropping her hand to his lap. With a little smirk Annie lifted the Stetson by its crown, turning it over and pretending to inspect its lining. <br />
<br />
Richie sucked in a breath as the movement revealed his quickly-rising erection. The brush of the night breeze over his cock aroused him further. "Umm... I think the inside's okay..."<br />
<br />
"Hmmm." Annie shrugged noncommittally before placing the black hat atop her tousled golden waves. She smiled beguilingly at Richie as she tugged the brim down low over her eyes.<br />
<br />
Richie groaned appreciatively at the sight; she looked sexy as hell in that cowboy hat. "It looks good on you," he rasped before sliding his tongue across his suddenly-dry lips.<br />
<br />
"Thank you." Annie smiled sweetly, then dropped her eyes to Richie's crotch. "You really <i>do</i> like it, don't you?" She giggled softly.<br />
<br />
Richie grinned. "What's not to like?" He gasped at Annie's touch as she reached over to trail a fingertip along his shaft. "I've always had a thing for Cowgirls."<br />
<br />
"Oh really? There many of those in New Jersey?" Annie chuckled coyly. She slowly encircled Richie's now-hard cock with her warm hand and gave it a gentle squeeze.<br />
<br />
"Not enough." <br />
<br />
"That's too bad." <br />
<br />
"Why's that?" Richie grunted softly as she squeezed again.<br />
<br />
Annie grinned cheekily. " 'Cause I don't think you've ever been properly ridden." She giggled. "And from the feel of things, you could use a nice, long ride right about now."Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-14221888526703703872011-04-22T21:00:00.049-04:002011-05-08T15:49:48.938-04:00Chapter 19Annie's lips parted in a silent gasp. Her heart melted at Richie's whispered declaration, even as her mind rejected it. <br />
<br />
Of course he couldn't be serious. Richie didn't <i>really</i> love her, how could he? He hardly knew her. He was just caught up in the moment, in the afterglow of great sex and good weed and this magical, romantic night of music and moonlight.<br />
<br />
But still Annie's eyes moistened at the earnestness in Richie's gaze. It was like he somehow knew that she <i>needed</i> to hear those words, for him to fill the emptiness in her heart that had been there too long. Even if it was only make-believe. <br />
<br />
And Annie could see in his beautiful, soulful eyes what Richie needed from her. <br />
<br />
"I love you too, Richie," she lied.<br />
<br />
They gazed silently at each other for a long minute before Richie slowly lowered his head. His lips stroked gently over Annabelle's as he moved his body downward, withdrawing from her. She whimpered softly as he broke the kiss.<br />
<br />
Shifting onto his hip beside Annie, Richie propped himself up on an elbow. With a tender smile he reached up to caress Annie's cheek as she turned her head to look at him. "God, Annie... that was<i> great. </i>Thank you."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, it was," she breathed, a little smile curling the corners of her pretty mouth. "I was beginnin' to wonder if we were ever gonna get there, though."<br />
<br />
"What?" Richie's brow arched with surprise. "Why?'<br />
<br />
"Well..." Annie reached up to finger the silver cross that lay askew against Richie's pec. "You just seemed like you didn't wanna kiss me at first, then you didn't wanna go any further than that. Like you were afraid or somethin'." She smiled coyly, raising her eyes to his.<br />
<br />
Richie felt his blush as he smiled sheepishly. "I... well, I wasn't <i>afraid,</i> exactly... I just..." He paused, searching for the right words. <br />
<br />
Annie waited patiently, watching him. Again her heart swelled as she saw Richie's vulnerability. In that moment he looked like an uncertain kid of nineteen, struggling to understand his emotions.<br />
<br />
Richie swallowed hard and took a deep breath before looking Annie in the eye. "Annie, you're not just some girl. Not to me. You're beautiful and kind and generous..." Again he stroked her cheek, brushing away a strand of honeyed hair from her face. "I just didn't want you to think I don't respect you. 'Cause I do. I didn't want to take advantage of you, make you hate me."<br />
<br />
Annie's smile gentled. "My goodness, that scoldin' I gave you yesterday about your manners really made an impression, huh?" She chuckled softly. "Richie, you didn't need to worry about takin' advantage of me. I can take care of myself just fine, and I woulda let you know if I wasn't happy about the way you were treatin' me. Besides..." She raised her hand to tap his nose playfully with her index finger. "You can't take advantage of somebody who's ready and willin'."<br />
<br />
Richie grinned at her confession, a little wave of relief washing over him. So he hadn't read her signals wrong. "I thought maybe... well, I was hoping you felt the same way I did. I <i>do</i>. I was just...." He shrugged as he let his thought trail off.<br />
<br />
"You were shy." Annie grinned back at him. "And it was sweet. Really, Richie, it was. But now...." She turned onto her side, sliding her arm around Richie's waist as she pressed her bare body to his. "There's nothin' left to be shy about, is there?"<br />
<br />
"No, I guess not." Richie's lips again found Annie's as he pulled her closer, savoring the feel of her naked body against his. He felt a stirring in his groin as they shared a long, deep kiss.<br />
<br />
"Mmmm...." Annie purred happily when their lips parted. "So... what now? A little star-gazin'?" She dropped her lips to Richie's shoulder and nibbled lightly at his warm skin.<br />
<br />
Richie chortled softly. "If that's what you wanna do."<br />
<br />
"As long as you hold me."<br />
<br />
"Deal."<br />
<br />
Annie pulled back from Richie and gave him a sweet smile. "You thirsty? I could use a drink."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, that sounds good." Richie loosened his embrace as Annie pushed herself up onto her hip beside him. He couldn't stop his grin as he found her firm breasts at his eye-level. He felt another little surge in his groin as he watched Annie pull a hand through her tousled blonde hair, her beautiful nude body bathed in silvery moonlight. Now that the sexual tension between them had been broken he wasn't embarrassed to stare.<br />
<br />
Annie felt Richie's eyes on her and smiled down at him. "Like what you see?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah. Very much."<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled softly and let her eyes wander down Richie's chest to his groin. She smirked slightly as she evaluated his manhood, noticing the little twitch it made in response to her gaze. Yes, he was definitely all she imagined; his snug-fitting jeans hadn't created an illusion. <i>Nothin' boyish about him there</i>, she thought with a silent snicker.<br />
<br />
And Richie certainly knew how to use his endowment. Though their intimate encounter hadn't lasted long, he had left Annabelle with no doubt about his experience. When it came to lovemaking Richie was no shy kid of nineteen. He was definitely <i>all </i>Man.<br />
<br />
Next time she'd appreciate his prowess more, when she had better control over her own body. Annie shivered slightly at that delightful idea, feeling her nipples contract in response. <i>Next time.</i><br />
<br />
With a little toss of her head Annie chuckled again and pushed herself up onto her knees. She leaned over Richie's legs, reaching for the remains of the six-pack that sat on the edge of the pickup truck's tailgate. Annie's breasts brushed against his feet as she stretched, making her giggle. She heard him laugh, too.<br />
<br />
Richie grinned broadly as he watched Annie pull a can of beer from its plastic ring, then settle back into her kneel to pop it open. He chuckled as he noticed she aimed the can away from her face before pulling the ring, in anticipation of a minor carbonated explosion.<br />
<br />
Rolling onto his back, Richie sighed happily. He let his hands rest on his damp chest as he looked up at the clear night sky. Millions of stars sparkled across the velvety darkness, winking at him in turn. Richie smiled gratefully as he realized for the first time in months he felt at peace.<br />
<br />
"Wanna drink?"<br />
<br />
Richie raised his head to see Annie holding out the can of Budweiser in offering. He nodded and pushed himself up on an elbow before taking the beverage from her. He groaned softly as a large swallow of barely-chilly beer slid down his throat. It tasted good.<br />
<br />
Annie giggled softly at Richie's little <i>slurp </i>from the beer can. She smiled, watching him take several more gulps before handing the half-empty can back to her. "Thirsty, huh?"<br />
<br />
"Parched. Guess your little game wore me out." Richie's tease was gentle. He regarded Annabelle for a moment, his mocha eyes widening in appreciation of her moonlit beauty. Her womanly curves were shadowed by the night, sliver light glinting off the perspiration that dotted her lovely neck and chest. <br />
<br />
Annie sat still, smiling as she felt Richie's loving gaze on her body. It warmed her soul even as the ocean breeze cooled her skin. Again she shivered slightly.<br />
<br />
"C'mere." Richie opened his arms, beckoning her to him.<br />
<br />
Annie crawled carefully forward, reaching to set the beer can beside the radio on the footlocker before settling beside Richie on the blanket. With a happy purr she snuggled against his side, sliding an arm across his waist as Richie enfolded her in his embrace. She nestled her cheek against his chest and sighed.<br />
<br />
"This is nice."<br />
<br />
"Mmmm hmmm...." Richie gave Annie a little squeeze, allowing his eyes to drift closed. He smiled gently as he felt her leg slide forward, twining around his. He breathed deeply, in and out, relaxing. His heartbeat evened out as he felt Annie's warm breath on his chest and the quiet rush of the waves filled his ears. "It's perfect," he whispered.<br />
<br />
They lay quietly together, listening to the sounds of the night mingled with the music drifting from the little radio and savoring their post-coital bliss. Annie chortled softly as she realized now that her arousal had been sated she could feel the effects of her organically-induced buzz. She reveled in her contentment. It had been a long time since she had felt this way, so safe and warm and beloved. <br />
<br />
As if reading her mind Annie felt Richie's arm's tighten around her. His chest expanded under her cheek as he pulled in, then blew out a deep breath. "You okay?" he murmured.<br />
<br />
"Uh huh." Annie giggled softly. "Just mellow."<br />
<br />
Richie grinned. "Me too." He chortled softly and dropped a kiss against Annie's hair. "You weren't kidding about Mischief tonight, were you?"<br />
<br />
"Nope." Annie curled her fingertips against Richie's side, tickling him gently. She giggled at his squirm. "And if you're gonna do Mischief, you may as well do it up right."<br />
<br />
Richie snorted out a laugh at that, then squirmed again at her second tickle. "Hey! Cut it out!" His hand moved to his side, stilling her offending fingers. <br />
<br />
Richie enfolded Annie's hand in his and pulled it up to rest on his chest. "Well, I'd say we did it up right. Honky-tonkin', whiskey-drinkin', grass-smokin'...." He grinned. "Then a little love-makin' under a big ol' Southern moon."<br />
<br />
Annie's musical laugh of agreement warmed Richie's heart. He squeezed her hand against his chest and kissed the top of her head again. "Ain't much else left to do, Mischief-wise."<br />
<br />
"Oh, I'm sure we can come up with somethin' else," Annie chided playfully. She sighed happily and turned her face to place a kiss against his chest. "But not right now. This feels too good."<br />
<br />
"Yeah." Richie gazed again up at the stars, smiling at the Heavens and silently thanking God for this miraculous night. After all the shit the Good Lord had put him through the last few months, finally He had given Richie a gift -- an Angel of Mercy to soothe his battered soul.<br />
<br />
Richie chuckled quietly to himself. Or maybe Annie was actually the Devil in Disguise. Either way, he didn't care. He was already knee-deep in Sin and he was gonna enjoy every damned minute of it. He would gladly suffer purgatory in exchange for this perfect night with Annabelle.<br />
<br />
"Mmmm...." Annie's purr against his chest drew Richie's attention back from the stars. <br />
<br />
"What?"<br />
<br />
"I love this song."<br />
<br />
Richie hadn't really been paying attention to the radio, lost in his musings. But now he focused on the melody wafting on the breeze. <br />
<br />
<i>On a dark desert highway</i><br />
<i>Cool wind in my hair</i><br />
<i>Warm smell of colitas</i><br />
<i>Rising up through the air</i><br />
<i>Up ahead in the distance</i><br />
<i>I saw a shimmering light</i><br />
<i>My head grew heavy and my sight grew dim</i><br />
<i>I had to stop for the night</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>There she stood in the doorway</i><br />
<i>I heard the Mission bell</i><br />
<i>And I was thinking to myself</i><br />
<i>This could be Heaven or this could be Hell...</i><br />
<br />
Richie chortled softly; how apt those lyrics were for his train of thought of just a moment ago. "Yeah, this is a fuckin' amazing tune, Man." He sighed heavily. "I always thought just maybe someday.... Someday I'd be able to write a song that good."<br />
<br />
"Someday you will," Annie murmured, again pressing her lips against his warm chest. <br />
<br />
"No. I won't."<br />
<br />
The pang of regret in Richie's husky reply made Annie raise her head. She gazed at his handsome face, now masked with sadness. <i>Dammit, not now</i>, she swore silently.<br />
<br />
"Sure you will." Annie gave Richie a tender smile. "I saw you up on that stage tonight, I heard you play and sing. And I saw how the people reacted to you. Lemme tell ya, Richie -- they're harsh critics, especially to outsiders. And you won 'em over with your first note." <br />
<br />
Annie paused, watching Richie's expression. His lips curved for a moment into an ironic smile, then it faded as he gave his dark head a little shake. As she saw hurt flicker in his wide pupils Annie's mind flashed back to that moment back at Ruby Mae's, when Richie had snapped at her.<br />
<br />
<i>I'm just not that good! Okay, Annie? Get it?</i><br />
<br />
Jesus... was <i>that </i>it? Had somebody told him he wasn't good enough to be a professional musician? Was that why he was so reluctant to open up to her about music?<br />
<br />
Annie took a breath before she continued. She so wanted to soothe him, to restore the happy mellow Richie had going just a minute ago. Until she had opened up her big mouth about that damned Eagles song. <br />
<br />
"Richie, you're <i>so</i> talented. I just know when you get back up to New Jersey and play some more you'll get your break. Somebody in one of those New York record companies is gonna hear you and..."<br />
<br />
"No." Richie's quiet dissent cut her off. "That's never gonna happen, Annie."<br />
<br />
"Oh Richie, I'm <i>sure</i> it will..."<br />
<br />
"No. It <i>won't.</i>" Richie's voice held a hard edge.<br />
<br />
Annie's eyes widened at his tone. She tensed as a wave of frustration washed over her. <br />
<br />
Dammit, ever since she picked Richie up on the side of the road yesterday he had been closed off to her on this topic, evasive of her well-intentioned questions. She was getting tired of it. How the Hell was she supposed to help him if he wouldn't talk to her? Surely after the intimacy they had just shared Richie wasn't afraid to reveal himself to her.<br />
<br />
"Oh really?" Annie tried to keep her voice level, to mask her frustration. But she could hear a hint of annoyance creep into her question. "And just what makes you so sure 'bout that?"<br />
<br />
'Cause I quit."Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-55927861219251747612011-04-15T21:00:00.002-04:002011-05-08T15:49:18.075-04:00Chapter 18<i>Darlin', don't live without you</i><br />
<i>And your love</i><br />
<i>If I have</i><br />
<i>Those golden dreams</i><br />
<i>Of my yesterdays</i><br />
<i>I would wrap you</i><br />
<i>In the Heaven</i><br />
<i>'Til I'm dyin'</i><br />
<i>On the Way</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>Feel like makin'</i><br />
<i>Feel like makin' love</i><br />
<i>Feel like makin' love</i><br />
<i>Feel like makin' love</i><br />
<i>Feel like makin' love to you</i><br />
<br />
Richie stared at Annie as the chorus crashed around them. He swallowed hard at the sultry gleam in her sapphire eyes. <br />
<br />
"Annie..." he mumbled hoarsely. "You don't have to..."<br />
<br />
"Hush." Her finger against his lips silenced him. "Richie.... I <i>want</i> to."<br />
<br />
Richie sucked in a breath as her husky confession filled his head. Wordlessly he nodded as a flush of heat rushed through his body.<br />
<br />
Annie moved her finger from Richie's lips, drawing its tip lightly down his chin before dropping her palm against his heaving chest. She smiled as she gently fingered the little silver cross gleaming against his moist skin. Then she pulled her hand away.<br />
<br />
Her gaze returning to Richie's, Annie pushed herself up on her hip, drawing her legs up to support her. Her bare knees grazed Richie's denim-clad thighs with the movement, making him gasp softly. Even that inadvertent, innocent contact sent another surge through his body.<br />
<br />
Richie stared as Annie's pretty pink-tipped fingers curled under the hem of her tank top. Her gaze still locked with his, Annabelle slowly pulled the garment up, baring her flat belly before revealing the creamy lace that covered her breasts. Richie exhaled shakily as Annie pulled the tank over her head, tossing her blonde hair as she dropped the garment beside her on the old quilt.<br />
<br />
Her lips curved into a sultry smile as she watched Richie's eyes lower to her chest. There was no mistaking his want now. He was no longer trying to put up a front, to be a gentleman and smother his attraction. And that excited her even more.<br />
<br />
"Richie..." Annie reached again to his chest, resting her palm momentarily over his heart before curling her fingers to clutch at the damp cotton stretched across his torso. With a gentle tug she made it clear what she wanted. Richie jumped to oblige her.<br />
<br />
Pushing himself up to sit facing her, Richie reached behind his neck and yanked the tank top up and over his head. Pulling it free of the dark tangle of his hair, he tossed it aside. Then he sat quiet, his tanned, bare chest slicked with a sheen of perspiration despite the light breeze wafting in from the water.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>Feel like makin' love</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>Feel like makin' love</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>Feel like makin' love</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>Feel like makin' love to you</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Annie breathed out, trying to stay calm as her hungry eyes slid over Richie's chest. He wasn't ripped by any means, but bronzed skin stretched taut over firm, tight muscles. Thin patches of dark fur scattered across his pectorals, curving around his brown nipples. Smooth bare skin stretched between the twin swells of his pecs, glistening in the moonlight. Annie's eyes followed the shiny path lower to the delicious dimple of his navel, half-hidden in the little creases of his abdomen as he sat awkwardly on his hip.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">She didn't dare let her gaze drop lower. Not yet. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Her smile gentling, Annie again raised her eyes to Richie's. Her heart skipped a beat at the need blazing in the dark mocha pools. She tipped her head a little as she reached both hands behind her back and fingered the clasp on her bra.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">"Oh <i>God.</i>.. " Richie breathed hoarsely as her breasts swelled against their cups with her movement. He could see the dark rosy circles of her nipples through the flimsy lace. Unconsciously he sucked his lower lip between his teeth and held his breath.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">With a soft chuckle Annie released the hooks between her shoulder blades. Moving one hand to modestly cover her breasts and hold her bra in place, she shrugged the straps over her shoulders, letting them slide down her arms. Then with a little smirk she lowered her arms, allowing the lacy garment to fall away from her bosom.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Richie gasped softly at the sight of her bare breasts. He raised a hand, then hesitated. Again his eyes met hers and his heart flipped. He smiled, seeing permission in her hopeful gaze. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">But when his hand moved again it was upward, to Annie's cheek. "My God, Annie..." he whispered. "You're so damned <i>beautiful..</i>." The word was a sigh against her lips, preceding his kiss.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">"Ohhhh.... <i>Richie.</i>..." Annie let herself go, leaning forward to press her chest against his as her hands sought his waist. The contact of their bare flesh made them groan together with delight. Lowering his hand from Annie's cheek, Richie braced it against the truck's bed and leaned forward, kissing Annie more hungrily.<br />
<br />
Chortling happily deep in her throat, Annie scooted closer to Richie, steadying herself with her arms around his waist. Then she leaned back, urging him to follow her down onto the quilt.<br />
<br />
Richie instinctively followed her lead, leaning with her until they were settled together on their sides. They continued to kiss, their urgency increasing as the words and crashing drums and guitars crescendoed around them.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>Feel like makin' love</i></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>Feel like makin' love</i></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>Feel like makin' love</i></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><i>Feel like makin' love to you</i></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
Annie moaned softly as she felt Richie's hand on her breast, gently cupping the firm globe before his fingers slipped over her nipple's peak. She turned her head just enough to slide her lips from his and draw in a deep, shuddering breath. Richie raised his head to look at her, anxious to see what emotion would grace her beautiful features. He couldn't help but grin when he saw her blissful smile.<br />
<br />
Dropping his cheek back to Annie's, he moved his lips to her ear. "Annie... I want you <i>so</i> much," he whispered. <br />
<br />
"I want you too, Richie... but <i>slow</i>. We got all night." Annie's sigh in his ear sent a tingle through his heated body. God, he wanted to take it slow too, to spend the rest of the night making love to her. But he was so revved up he wasn't sure how long he could last. The<i> first</i> time, anyway.<br />
<br />
He didn't answer, instead turning his lips to her neck. Richie felt Annie tip her head back as he nuzzled between thick honeyed strands of blossom-scented hair, seeking her warm skin. God, she tasted good--warm and sweet, with just a little salty tang of sweat. Richie let out a soft groan as he realized he wanted to lick every inch of her, to fill himself with her taste.<br />
<br />
As Richie suckled gently at her neck, his lips inching down toward her shoulder, Annie sighed happily and shifted beside him. As she rolled onto her back Richie's hand slipped from Annie's breast to brace against the quilt by her side. His lips never stopped their movement, slipping down to the notch of her throat.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Darlin'... you taste so <i>good.</i>..." Richie murmured against her skin. "I bet you taste this good <i>all </i>over, don't you?" With the lusty question Richie's hand moved to rest on Annie's stomach, his fingers slipping under the waist of her cutoffs. <br />
<br />
Annie gasped softly, her hips automatically tipping upward toward his touch. "I... I don't know," she teased gently. "Why don't <i>you </i>tell <i>me</i>?"<br />
<br />
Richie smiled against her delicious skin, surprised at the little blush he felt heating his cheeks at her veiled invitation. He certainly had no reservations about eating pussy; in fact, he'd been told he was pretty damned good at it. And Lord knew he wanted a taste of Annie. <br />
<br />
But first he wanted to revel in the feel and flavor of her flesh quivering under his lips "Soon," he whispered, just before his lips closed around her nipple.<br />
<br />
Annie whimpered softly, her eyes drifting closed as she arched against Richie's mouth. Her entire body tingled with delight at his touch as her womb throbbed with longing. <i>Easy... </i>she reminded herself silently. <i>Slow. God, it will be SO good...</i><br />
<br />
Richie suckled at Annie's breast for a long moment before levering himself up on his elbow and leaning to capture her other nipple between his lips. At the same time his fingers tugged at the snap at her waist. With a quiet <i>pop</i> it came loose, followed by a soft grate of her zipper parting under Richie's deft fingers.<br />
<br />
"Oh!" Annie gasped with delight as she felt Richie's fingers slide inside her panties, reaching for her warmth. She was already drenched with anticipation; she had barely been able to control herself through their truth-or-dare foreplay. When Richie's fingertips brushed lightly over her swollen clit she squeaked, biting back a full-fledged moan. Her hands went to Richie's head, tangling in his thick mane as she fought to hold herself in check. <br />
<br />
Sensing her near-loss of control Richie paused, withdrawing his hand from her panties and resting it on her hip. He raised his head from her breast and smiled. "You okay?"<br />
<br />
"Uh huh..." Annie half-lied. "Okay" wasn't exactly the word she would use... "fantastic" was more like it. Or "tortured." She giggled softly at the last word that sprung to mind. "I just... I just need to slow down a little bit. Or it's gonna be a shorter night than I thought." She grinned at her self-deprecating tease.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Darlin', that's just not true." Richie gave Annie a direct look. "Not if I have my way."<br />
<br />
Annie couldn't stop the little groan from rumbling in her throat at Richie's declaration. Jesus, just that look and that voice alone could make her orgasm over and over, until she was a quivering, spent mass. "Good," she managed to rasp out before pulling his mouth down to hers and reaching for his fly.<br />
<br />
"<i>Christ..</i>." Richie breathed as he felt Annabelle's hand cup his crotch and squeeze firmly. His cock surged at the contact, demanding release from its denim prison.<br />
<br />
"Richie..." Annie gasped through their kiss.<br />
<br />
"Yeah?"<br />
<br />
"Lay back." She squirmed under him, trying to shift position to improve her reach.<br />
<br />
Richie quickly complied, pulling his mouth from hers with a little pang of regret. But that feeling was quickly replaced as Annie raised herself up on an elbow beside him. The sight of her beautiful breasts, moist from his mouth and shining in the moonlight, sent a powerful bolt of lust through his groin. <br />
<br />
With a deep groan Richie stretched out his legs and let his hands fall limply onto his chest. He gulped in two deep breaths, trying to calm himself and bracing for what he knew was about to happen. The last thing he needed to do was cum all over Annie's hand the second she touched him.<br />
<br />
Annie took her own deep breath as she let her eyes slide over Richie's glistening torso before stopping on his waist. She knew he was rock-hard; one little squeeze had told her as much. And he was <i>big</i>. There was no doubt about that. She shivered slightly in anticipation of how good he would feel, sliding inside her.<br />
<br />
Pushing herself up a little further on her elbow, Annie moved her hand to Richie's waist. As he had done to her, she let her palm rest against his belly for a moment before slipping her fingers under the waistband of his jeans. Her lips parted in a soft gasp of surprise when she felt the smooth skin of his head against her fingertips. <br />
<br />
He wasn't wearing any underwear.<br />
<br />
Richie grunted softly, his abs contracting under Annie's hand at the contact. She paused for a moment, turning her face to look at him. She smiled when she saw his eyes were squeezed shut and his jaw was clenched; obviously he was trying hard to maintain his control.<br />
<br />
But she didn't really feel like helping him with that right now. Returning her gaze to his waist, Annie pushed her hand further inside Richie's jeans. The sticky warmth of his pre-cum moistened her fingers as she slid her hand down the length of his shaft until finally his head was under her palm. She paused for a long moment, relishing the feel of him, then slowly withdrew her hand. <br />
<br />
When her fingers cleared his waistband Richie exhaled with a rush of breath. Annie chuckled softly and turned again to look at him. This time his eyes were half-open and hooded with desire. "God, Annie..." Richie mumbled hoarsely.<br />
<br />
Annie didn't reply. She just dipped her head to place a gentle kiss against his lips before popping open the button on his jeans. Richie groaned softly against her mouth before she pulled away. Then she carefully lowered his zipper and pushed aside the two halves of denim.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Baby...." Richie groaned as Annie's small hand wrapped around his freed member. "My God, that feels <i>sooooo gooooood....</i>."<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled softly. "You're <i>so </i>hard," she observed quietly. <br />
<br />
"I <i>know</i>..." <br />
<br />
Annie giggled out loud at that. "Sorry. I didn't mean... I know you've been... um... <i>aroused.</i>.. all night." She gave Richie a sympathetic smile. "I'm sorry."<br />
<br />
Richie took another deep breath. "S'okay." he murmured hoarsely.<br />
<br />
Annie looked at Richie's beautiful face and melted. Suddenly she felt guilty for making him wait, for drawing things out like this. <br />
<br />
"Richie... make love to me. Now."<br />
<br />
Annie's hand left Richie's cock and she pushed at his jeans, nudging them down over his hips. With a ragged breath Richie helped her, raising his hips and shoving the pants down his ass and thighs before curling up to sit and dragging them the rest of the way off his body. <br />
<br />
Naked, Richie turned on his hip toward Annabelle. He pawed at her cutoffs and panties, deftly sliding them down her smooth legs and tossing them onto the pile of his own jeans.<br />
<br />
Annie felt herself trembling as she lay on her back, gazing up at Richie. She couldn't believe how much she wanted him.<br />
<br />
Richie hesitated for a moment, his gaze sweeping over Annie's body. Jesus, she looked <i>so </i>beautiful, her nude body bathed in warm golden moonlight, her honeyed hair fanned out under her head against the ragged old quilt. In the night's soft glow he could swear he saw a halo encircling her pretty head.<br />
<br />
"Richie... please..."<br />
<br />
Silently Richie lowered his body onto Annie's, covering her. Their sighs mingled at the meeting of their flesh, her soft curves molding against his hard planes. Annie's thighs slipped apart to allow Richie to settle between them. His rigid length pressed against her warm mound, throbbing lightly with his pulse. <br />
<br />
Richie braced himself on his elbows and gazed down at Annabelle's angelic face. Her eyes sparkled like sapphires back at him. "Ready?"<br />
<br />
"Yes."<br />
<br />
Annabelle drew in a long breath as she felt Richie shift against her, his swollen head probing at her warm entrance. Then he pushed forward, inching inside her. "Oh!" she gasped out as she felt her walls stretching to surround his girth.<br />
<br />
"Are you okay? I'm not hurting you, am I?"<br />
<br />
The worry in Richie's voice sent a pang of guilt through Annie's heart. She smiled and shook her head. "No. I just... just take it slow, okay. I need a minute... to adjust." She chuckled softly.<br />
<br />
"Okay." Richie flexed his hips forward again, carefully pushing his cock deeper inside her. He winced as he felt the telltale tingle in his balls, knowing he wasn't going to last long at this rate. But he couldn't just go crazy and start pounding her. He didn't want to hurt her. And he wanted her to enjoy their lovemaking, not just be a receptacle for his cum.<br />
<br />
Annie blew out a long breath, then smiled. Richie breathed his own sigh of relief as he felt Annie's walls relax a bit around him. "Better?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah," Annie whispered, then leaned up to brush a kiss across Richie's lips. "Let's go." She slipped her arms around his torso and pulled him down closer to her, reclaiming his lips in a more passionate kiss.<br />
<br />
Richie growled softly as he felt Annie shift beneath him, raising her legs to wrap around his waist. "God, Annie..." he gasped against her mouth. "It won't... I won't...."<br />
<br />
"Shhh. Come on Richie... Just...." Annie gasped as he started to move, thrusting gently. "Oh God! Oh... <i>Yeah!</i>" Annabelle felt a wave of tingling heat radiate out from her core. <br />
<br />
"Jesus, Richie!" she yelped as she felt the hard ridge of his head rub hard over her g-spot. Though he has hardly moving, carefully stroking inside her, their fit was so perfect that she was already about to climax.<br />
<br />
"What? Annie, does it hurt?" Richie froze again.<br />
<br />
Annie's hands dropped to Richie's ass, her fingers digging into his tensed glutes. "<i>No!"</i> she gasped. "My <i>God,</i> don't <i>stop</i>!"<br />
<br />
The urgency in Annie's plea ignited Richie. He shoved his hips hard against Annie's, making her yelp out with surprise. "<i>Christ</i>, Annie..." he growled through clenched teeth. "I... I can't hold on...." His body tensed as he tried to hold back his orgasm.<br />
<br />
"Richie, <i>come!"</i> Annie gasped, holding on tight and bracing for her impending explosion. "God, Richie...<i>please..."</i> Her eyes squeezed shut as she felt her walls ripple as her climax triggered.<br />
<br />
"Oh <i>GOD.</i>..." Richie groaned with relief as his orgasm rushed forth, a tidal wave of his desire filling Annie's womb. "Oh, <i>Annie....</i>" <br />
<br />
Despite his own rapture Richie was aware of Annie shuddering under him, caught in the throes of her own desire. He braced himself up on his elbows so as not to crush her, then looked down at her. <br />
<br />
Richie watched, fascinated, as Annie's face contorted with ecstasy, her cheeks flushed a rosy crimson and her lips parted in a silent shriek of pleasure. Slowly, as her body calmed, her grimace relaxed to a sated smile. She panted softly, her skin glowing with the sheen of her exertion. <br />
<br />
When she opened her eyes Richie's beautiful smile was the first thing that swam into view. Annabelle's heart clenched at the wonder in his deep chocolate eyes. <br />
<br />
Then came his words, in a husky, reverent whisper.<br />
<br />
"Annie.... I love you."<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-23576863562559674102011-04-08T21:00:00.022-04:002011-05-08T15:48:39.699-04:00Chapter 17Richie sucked in an audible breath at Annabelle's soft words. His eyes widened in disbelief. Had he just heard her right? She wanted him to.... <i>WHAT?</i><br />
<br />
Annie saw the shock in Richie's expression. She paused for a moment, watching him, then repeated her words. "Kiss me, Richie." Her gentle smile curved into a playful smirk. "I dare you."<br />
<br />
"Uh..." Richie couldn't move. Annabelle had just asked him... no, <i>dared</i> him... to do the one thing he had been trying to avoid thinking about all night. Oh, how he had yearned to touch his lips to hers, to discover how soft they were, how sweet they tasted... but he knew he wouldn't want to stop there. He would want so, so much more than just a kiss. <br />
<br />
He let out a frustrated little sigh. "Annie..."<br />
<br />
Annie raised an eyebrow at Richie's gentle protest. She <i>knew</i> he wanted to kiss her. She was <i>positive</i> of it. The way he looked at her, the way he held her when they danced, the way his heartbeat accelerated in his chest when he smelled her hair when he thought she wasn't paying attention... so why the Hell was he hesitating?<br />
<br />
"C'mon, Richie." Annie's voice was more firm than pleading, though inside she was silently begging him to comply. "You took a Dare. If you don't do it, I win."<br />
<br />
<i>And I definitely lose...</i> Richie swallowed hard, his gaze fixing on Annie's plump lower lip. His heart skipped when he realized it was trembling just a tiny bit. <i>Is she nervous?</i><br />
<br />
Richie felt himself drift forward. His own lips parted in anticipation as his gaze locked with Annie's, just for a brief moment. In that split-second Richie saw his desire reflected back at him in sparkling blue pools. Then his eyes slipped closed as his mouth brushed over hers.<br />
<br />
Her lips were perfect, soft and satiny-slick. They tasted faintly of strawberries, sweet despite a tinge of smoke and beer. A little breath caught in Richie's throat as he froze, savoring the sensation. Then he felt Annie's lips slide against his, parting to invite him inside her warm mouth. A flush of heat swept over Richie's body as he couldn't help but respond.<br />
<br />
Gently his tongue nudged forth, tracing the bow of Annie's upper lip before dipping inside to touch hers. Annie responded with a happy sigh, smiling against the kiss. She gave Richie's lower lip a little nibble before drawing her head back.<br />
<br />
Richie's lids fluttered open and he saw Annabelle looking at him. She was radiant, her smile brighter than the full moon's golden light. Her hair stirred in the gentle ocean breeze, little wisps floating in front of her pretty lips, shiny from their kiss. <br />
<br />
As he gazed at her Richie became aware of the soft music floating from the little radio. The song could not have been more perfect for the moment had he picked it himself.<br />
<br />
<i>And then she asks me</i><br />
<i>Do I feel alright?</i><br />
<i>And I say yes... I feel wonderful tonight</i><br />
<br />
Annie watched Richie's reaction, her heart warming at his expression of wonderment. After a long moment she spoke, her voice soft and husky. "See, now? That wasn't so bad, was it?"<br />
<br />
Richie stared back at Annie for a minute, then his face relaxed into a shy smile. "Uh... no. I mean... it was... Nice." Though he could feel his pulse racing Richie felt oddly serene. He chuckled softly.<br />
<br />
"Yeah... nice." Annabelle continued to smile at Richie as she drifted forward, leaning in a little closer to him. She paused, her eyes glowing a darker shade of azure. "Your turn."<br />
<br />
Richie swallowed hard, then cleared his throat. He could feel the warmth radiating from Annie's body despite the light breeze, and her delicate perfume filled his senses. He couldn't stop a goofy grin from spreading across his face as he gazed back at her. <br />
<br />
"Okay. Truth.... or Dare?" His brow lifted with the question.<br />
<br />
Annie didn't hesitate. "Dare."<br />
<br />
Richie's dick throbbed at the playful tease in her voice as she uttered that single word. He knew what he <i>wanted </i>to dare Annie to do: rip open his jeans and grab his cock and relieve the swollen ache that had plagued him for hours. No, for a full <i>day</i>.<br />
<br />
But he couldn't say that. He couldn't treat her so crassly.<br />
<br />
But Jesus, he did want to feel her lips on his again.<br />
<br />
"I <i>dare </i>you..." Richie reached up to brush away a breeze-stirred strand of honey-gold hair from Annie's cheek. "To kiss <i>me</i>."<br />
<br />
Annie smirked coyly as the butterflies in her tummy fluttered madly with delight. Richie had figured out her little game, and he was willing to play. But she couldn't resist teasing him a bit more. <br />
<br />
"Mmmm. You sure about that?"<br />
<br />
Richie's grin gentled and he gave her an serious look. "Abso-fucking-lutely."<br />
<br />
Annie gazed into Richie's wide brown eyes and melted. Without a word she leaned forward, raising her face to his. She sighed blissfully as her lips stroked over Richie's, the contact gentle and electric at the same time. Reveling in the feel of his warm mouth against hers, Annie scooted closer to Richie as she tilted her head to deepen the kiss.<br />
<br />
Richie groaned at the contact between Annie's body and his own. Her breasts pressed lightly against his chest and she rested a hand on his side as her tongue probed forward into his mouth. Annie responded to Richie's growl with a happy little purr of her own as she tangled her tongue with his.<br />
<br />
Richie felt like he was soaring, floating away on a magic carpet-ride of pleasure. He couldn't believe this was happening, that Annabelle was sharing this wonderful intimacy with him. That she let him kiss her. And she was kissing him back. Again his hand raised to her cheek, cupping his palm against her soft skin as he reacted to her kiss with his own heightened urgency.<br />
<br />
He felt her fingers curl against his side a second before Annie pulled away, parting their lips with a soft gasp and a moist<i> smack</i>. Richie drew in a shuddering breath, trying to remain calm though his blood was rushing through his veins and his heart was thundering in his chest. His hand dropped to rest on Annie's bare shoulder as he stared longingly at her.<br />
<br />
Annie could see in Richie's eyes what he wanted. It was what she wanted too. So <i>Dammit</i>, why wouldn't he make the first move? <br />
<br />
Her lips pursed slightly with frustration. Maybe she was moving too fast, making him uncomfortable. After all, he <i>was</i> kind of shy. Richie had seemed a little off-balance during the whole of his stay, a little unsure of himself around her. It was sweet, but now it was just getting frustrating.<br />
<br />
Annie sighed. Maybe she should back off a little, let Richie mellow out even more. After all, they had just finished their joint; the drug had hardly had time to take effect. Maybe if they both relaxed things would happen naturally.<br />
<br />
She pulled in a deep breath. "Okay...." Annie breathed out before continuing hoarsely. "Truth or Dare?"<br />
<br />
"Uh..." Richie tried to read Annie's expression, confused by the mixed signals he was now getting. That kiss... it was clearly a message that she wanted to fool around. Wasn't it? But now Annabelle looked like she was a little bit... not <i>mad,</i> exactly, but...<br />
<br />
"Richie... what's it gonna be?"<br />
<br />
<i>Shit. </i> "Ummm... Truth." Richie wasn't sure he was up to whatever Annie's next dare might be. It was getting harder and harder to control himself. And if he went too far he would really be up shit creek. For all he knew Annabelle might leave him out here in the middle of the woods with the snakes if she thought he was trying to take advantage of her.<br />
<br />
Annie's gaze dropped to Richie's chest as she silently cursed. She watched it rise and fall with his deep breaths, evidence of his excitement. Dammit, maybe she <i>had </i>gone a little too fast, and now he was afraid to make a move. Jesus, when was she gonna learn to stop pushing and act at least a<i> little</i> bit like a Lady? <br />
<br />
Annabelle raised her eyes back to Richie's. She smiled amusedly when she saw the confusion in his wide-pupiled stare. Yeah, she obviously needed to back off a little bit. The poor guy didn't know what to think.<br />
<br />
"Okay... Truth. Hmmm...." Annie pursed her lips thoughtfully and shifted a little bit, opening a bit of space between her body and Richie's. She pulled her hand from his side and rested it on her thigh, her fingertips curling against her bare skin in a subtle sign of self-restraint. Annie knew what she <i>wanted </i>to ask Richie, but she needed to think before she just blurted something out that made him even more uncomfortable. That seemed to be her special talent, after all.<br />
<br />
Richie tried to calm his breathing as he waited for Annie to formulate a question. God, how he wanted to pull her body against his and mash his mouth down onto hers and continue that fantastic, electric kiss. But he just couldn't. He had to stop, to smother this slow burn that was consuming his whole body and threatening to flame into an inferno. <br />
<br />
And he had to cool it not just because he was close to losing control, but because obviously Annie's inhibitions were lowered as well. After all, they were both at least a little bit high. He didn't want her to do something she would regret. <br />
<br />
Richie flashed back to Eddie's earlier comment, when they had shared an honest talk in the garage office. He could almost hear the mechanic's warm rumbly drawl in his head. <i>"But I'm just askin' you... whatever happens tonight, or tomorrow, or before you roll outa town here come Monday... just think twice before you break her heart, okay?" </i><br />
<br />
Richie took another deep breath as he considered Eddie's words. <i> Think twice before you break her heart...</i> He and Annie had only known each other for a little more than a day, but he felt closer to her than he had ever felt to a girl. Tonight he wanted her more than he had <i>ever</i> wanted a woman. And if he wasn't somehow dreaming or imagining or hallucinating what was happening now, she wanted him too.<br />
<br />
If he were to give in to desire, to let Annie act on her romantic impulse, they would undoubtedly have quite a night to remember. Just the way she had kissed him told Richie she would be a confident and capable lover. Richie felt another urgent twitch in his groin at the thought. <br />
<br />
But the problem was, it wouldn't be just about enjoying the moment and the moonlight, about giving over to their mutual attraction and having fantastic sex. No, Richie couldn't just fuck Annabelle, even if she begged him to. He cared too much about her to do that.<br />
<br />
Richie had always thought he could stick his dick in just about any willing pussy and walk away with no regrets. He had put more than a few notches on his bedpost back in Jersey practicing that philosophy. And Lord knows he had done it a couple times in Memphis, gladly accepting the attention of Beale Street Club Girls who were happy to exchange their carnal talents for free drinks and smokes. And he hadn't felt the least bit guilty about his lothario ways.<br />
<br />
But this was so very different. This was Annabelle. The sweetest, kindest, most beautiful soul he had ever known. With her, it wouldn't be sex. It would be making love. And that was a risk Richie didn't know if he could take.<br />
<br />
"Hey... Richie? You still here?" Annie's musical drawl brought him back. Richie shook his head slightly then looked at her, squinting a little as he waited for his gaze to focus on her smile. <br />
<br />
"Huh? Oh, sorry. Guess I drifted off there a minute."<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled softly. "Gettin' a little more mellow, huh?"<br />
<br />
Richie grinned sheepishly. "Yeah. Somethin' like that."<br />
<br />
"You ready to tell me your Truth?"<br />
<br />
Richie took a deep breath, then nodded. "I guess so. Go ahead."<br />
<br />
"Okay." Annie looked at Richie for a moment, then gave him a sly smile. "So, this morning when I woke you up, when you were sleepin' on the sofa...." She dropped her gaze obviously to Richie's fly, chuckling inwardly at the bulge there before pulling her eyes back up to meet Richie's. "Were you dreamin' about me?"<br />
<br />
Richie's eyes widened as he recalled the state of arousal in which he had awakened, the result of his slumbering fantasy. And Annie had been right there, telling him it was time to "rise and shine." <i>Oh fuck... she saw it.</i> Richie cringed with embarrassment at the realization. But he had to tell the truth... those were the rules of the game.<br />
<br />
"Yeah. I was."<br />
<br />
Annie's pulse jumped at Richie's hoarse confession. He didn't look away from her, his soulful brown eyes locked with hers. She gazed back at him, certain her excitement was dancing in her own baby blues. <br />
<br />
"I was hopin' you'd say that." Annie's smile faded and she gave him an earnest look. "'Cause I didn't get hardly a wink of sleep last night, thinkin' about you out there on my sofa."<br />
<br />
Richie's lips parted with an involuntary little gasp. "Annie... I..." He didn't know what else to say. The idea of Annabelle in her bed, tossing and turning and fantasizing about him, was almost too much for him to comprehend. <br />
<br />
Annie giggled softly. "Your turn." She wanted to keep this little game going, to continue to share these intimate moments and secret confessions with Richie.<br />
<br />
Richie took another deep breath, reaching up to drag a hand through his hair as he blew it out. Jesus, she wasn't letting up. Annabelle was determined to get all his secrets out tonight... at least about his feelings for her. Maybe that wasn't such a bad thing. He snorted softly with his little grin.<br />
<br />
"Okay. Truth or Dare?"<br />
<br />
Annie considered the question for a moment, then smiled demurely. "Dare."<br />
<br />
"Hmm. Thought so. Shit, now I gotta come up with somethin'." Richie shook his head as he fake-grumbled. "Damn, Annie. This game is gettin' too hard."<br />
<br />
Annie giggled at his reaction, happy to see the return of his humor. "Okay, just this one last round then we'll do somethin' else. Promise."<br />
<br />
"Oh, alright." Richie thought for a moment, trying to come up with a task for Annie that didn't cross his self-imposed line of restraint yet didn't sound totally stupid. As much as he would love to say "show me your tits" or something equally naughty in keeping with the tone of their flirty little game, Richie knew that would be the end of his self-control.<br />
<br />
He frowned as he considered and discarded a couple lame ideas, shaking his head with frustration. His buzz and the Bob Seger song playing on the radio weren't helping his concentration.<br />
<br />
"Christ, Annie... I don't know..."<br />
<br />
"Come on, Richie. It doesn't have to be anything big." Annie prodded him gently with her words. She reached out to trace a finger lightly over his forearm as he picked at a fraying patch of fabric on the old quilt. "Just go with whatever's on your mind."<br />
<br />
Richie snorted softly. "You sure you want me to do that?"<br />
<br />
"Yes." Annie held her breath, wondering if he would really act on the lusty thoughts she was certain were swirling around his head. The quiet rush of the waves and the gentle patter of the DJ on the radio filled the silence as she watched Richie consider the idea. She could tell by the little smirk that curved his mouth that his train of thought was right in line with hers.<br />
<br />
But he was too much of a gentleman to act on his thoughts. "Annie... I don't know." Richie sighed with exasperation. "I got nothin'. Can't we just quit this stupid game, just hang out and look at the stars or something?"<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled softly. "Nuh uh. I'm not letting you off the hook that easy." She grinned at Richie and pushed herself up more comfortably on her elbow. "How about we do a little Radio Roulette dare?"<br />
<br />
"What the fuck is that?"<br />
<br />
Annie laughed. "It's pretty easy. Next song that comes on tells you what my dare is."<br />
<br />
Richie gave her a confused look. "Huh? How's that gonna work?"<br />
<br />
Annie rolled her eyes and swept a hand through her hair, tucking it back behind her ear. "Whatever the song is, it will give you an idea. Maybe the title or a line or something. Then that's what my dare is. To do whatever that song makes you think of." She giggled. "See, totally gets you off the hook. It's all up to Fate."<br />
<br />
Richie considered the idea for a second, half-listening to the ad now playing on the radio. It was a corny idea, but at least he wouldn't have to admit to Annie the dare he <i>really</i> wanted to give her. "So if it's something like... fuck, I don't know... <i>Boogie Shoes? </i>Then you gotta get up and dance around?"<br />
<br />
Annie giggled again at Richie's simplistic explanation. "Yeah, that's the general idea. If that's what the song makes you think of. But I don't think you're gonna hear that song on this station."<br />
<br />
Richie sighed. "Alright. Fine by me." He smirked. Not that it would necessarily be a <i>bad </i>thing to watch Annie dance for him.... "But this is the last dare, right? You're not gonna make me do one or anything?"<br />
<br />
Annie nodded. "Promise. No more games. We'll just pop open a beer and lay here and listen to music and look at the stars, if that's what you wanna do. <i>But maybe you'll hold me while we do it...</i><br />
<br />
Richie's smile gentled as he gazed into Annie's glowing blue eyes. She looked so pretty, so sweet. He almost felt bad for not wanting to play her little game anymore. But he wasn't in the mood for games after what she had just revealed to him. He wanted to do something more romantic. <br />
<br />
He reached up to trace his thumb gently across Annie's cheek. "That sounds nice. Sorry I'm being a party-pooper."<br />
<br />
"You're not." Annie smiled back at Richie as her skin tingled at the brush of his calloused thumb. " 'Kay, commercials are almost done. Remember, whatever the next song is, the first thing it reminds you of... that's my dare."<br />
<br />
"Got it." Propping himself up on his elbow, Richie craned his neck to look at the radio, resting on its perch atop the old footlocker.<br />
<br />
Annie closed her eyes and listened, silently praying the next tune on the playlist wouldn't be something crazy like <i>I am the Walrus. </i> She didn't want to prolong this any further. "It's all in the hands of Fate now, Richie," she teased gently.<br />
<br />
Richie's heart stopped when he heard the first familiar note. He had strummed that D-G-C chord progression more times than he could count, had belted out that blatantly sexual chorus from many a smoky barroom stage. Holy Christ, how many times had he queued up this very song in the tape deck when he was hoping to get lucky with some chick in the Impala's back seat?<br />
<br />
And now... with Annabelle...<br />
<br />
Annie gasped softly when the melody floated through the air. She didn't even need to hear the lyrics... this was a song she knew well. She loved Bad Company, and this was one of her favorites. It was if the Gods of the Radio had heard her silent plea and sent her the perfect song for the moment, a clear answer to the dilemma of Richie's dare.<br />
<br />
Fate had chosen well.<br />
<br />
She opened her eyes and found Richie staring at her, his lips parted with anticipation and his liquid brown eyes smoldering with desire. Her gaze locked with his, her bright blue eyes gleaming with excitement.<br />
<br />
<i>Baby, when I think about you</i><br />
<i>I think about Love...</i>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-64361815223366423492011-04-01T21:00:00.045-04:002011-05-08T15:48:06.843-04:00Chapter 16"Wha..." Richie stared at the joint in Annie's hand. He blinked at it, stunned. Then a sly grin crept to his lips. "Where did you get that?"<br />
<br />
Annie giggled, giving her head a sassy little toss. Her eyes sparkled in the moonlight. "It's a small town, Richie. People know where to get things."<br />
<br />
Richie chortled at her reaction. He would bet his Impala that Annie had acquired the little hand-rolled cigarette when she slipped into the back room before departing Ruby Mae's. There were undoubtedly more than a few vices available for indulgence at that place.<br />
<br />
"I guess so."<br />
<br />
"So... You wanna join me? Or shall I just keep this all to myself?" Annie gave a little wave with her hand to frame the question. Her grin widened as she saw Richie's gaze follow the joint's movement.<br />
<br />
"Hell Yeah, I'll join you." Richie laughed softly again, not only at Annie's mischievous expression but at the thought of the effect the marijuana would have on him. With all that had happened the last few days, with all the disappointment waiting for him in future, he could definitely stand to mellow out for awhile.<br />
<br />
"Good." Annie extended her arm, her pink-tipped fingers daintily spread as she offered the joint to Richie. "Here. There are some matches in the glove box."<br />
<br />
Richie took the paper twist from Annie's hand and regarded it for a moment. The joint was well-constructed, tightly rolled so that its contents wouldn't escape when the first flash of flame disintegrated the pinched end of the paper wrapping. But still, they didn't want to waste any of this little Saturday Night Special.<br />
<br />
"You got a roach?" Richie looked back at Annabelle and saw she was still grinning at him. His heart skipped a beat at how pretty she looked, leaning back with her hands braced behind her against the truck bed, swinging her long, tanned legs over the tailgate's edge...<br />
<br />
Annie's lips pursed thoughtfully. "Good question. I'm pretty sure there ain't one with the matches..." She pushed forward from her lean, twisting her body to look back over her shoulder at the pickup's cab. "Maybe I got somethin' in the box." Annie pulled her legs up, bending her knees to raise her bare feet up high enough to clear the tailgate's edge as she shifted sideways on her behind.<br />
<br />
Richie felt another surge in his groin as his eyes dropped to Annie's slender, tanned feet resting beside him on the truck's tailgate. Her toenails were pink too, the same hue of polish as she wore on her fingernails. Jesus, even her feet were pretty.<br />
<br />
"Oh, wait... I know. Yeah, I got somethin'." Annie's voice snapped Richie's attention back to the task at hand. "You get the matches."<br />
<br />
"Okay." Richie nodded and took a step back from the tailgate as Annie moved again, climbing to her feet in the truck bed. "Gimme a minute. I gotta take a leak."<br />
<br />
Annie giggled as she raised a hand to tuck a breeze-stirred lock of golden hair behind her ear. " 'Kay. But you may not wanna wander too far from the sand, 'specially not out near the trees. All kindsa creatures out there in the night. The kind that slither."<br />
<br />
Richie involuntarily shuddered at the thought of encountering a snake. "Yeah, I'm not goin' anywhere. Just around front of the truck."<br />
<br />
Annie gave Richie a saucy grin. "Okay, then. I promise not to peek." She playfully covered her eyes with one hand, then spread her fingers so he could see one long-lashed blue eye sparkling back at him.<br />
<br />
Richie chortled softly as he felt a blush creep to his cheeks at her tease. With a little shake of his head Richie tucked the joint securely behind his ear and turned away. He heard Annie moving around in the truck bed as he took a handful of steps along the side of the old pickup. <br />
<br />
When he reached the front he turned his back to Annie and the truck and lowered his zipper. Richie sighed with relief as he emptied his beer-swollen bladder onto a clump of weedy beach grass at the sand dune's base. Giving his dick a couple good shakes, he stuffed it carefully back inside his jeans, no easy feat since he was still semi-hard. <br />
<br />
Richie took a deep breath and prayed a few hits from the joint would not only relax his mind, but his body as well. Spending the rest of this night in a state of arousal would be painful. And Annie wasn't doing anything to make it any easier on him, with her long bare legs and her pretty pink nails and her shiny, soft lips and sparkling blue eyes and tousled honeyed hair...<br />
<br />
Richie reached up to scrub his hands over his face, careful not to dislodge the joint from its place behind his ear. He took a deep breath and slowly blew it out, willing himself to be calm. It wouldn't be long until he would be chemically mellow.<br />
<br />
That thought made Richie grin. He turned and moved a few steps to tug open the passenger door of the old truck, then leaned in and punched open the glove box. As Annie predicted there were several matchbooks in the little compartment, along with a crumpled half-empty packet of Marlboros. Richie chuckled softly. Apparently Annie had more than one vice.<br />
<br />
Grabbing the cigarettes and a book of matches, Richie pushed the glove box and truck door closed in turn. Then he turned his gaze to the pickup bed and Annie. Again his dick throbbed with anticipation when he saw what she had done.<br />
<br />
While Richie's attention was diverted Annie had turned the truck bed into a little lounge. She had unrolled the sleeping bag and topped it with the tattered quilt, and moved the radio up to a perch atop the old footlocker. The Doobie Brothers' <i>It Keeps You Running</i> drifted from the little speakers, the melody mingling with the quiet rush of the waves against the sand.<br />
<br />
Annie was back in her place on the tailgate, her legs dangling over the edge and her hair stirring in the breeze as she looked out at the ocean. Richie chuckled softly as he watched her take a sip from the the half-empty can of Budweiser that had showered him earlier.<br />
<br />
He took another deep breath to calm his restless dick, then wandered to the back of the truck. "Got the matches." He gave Annie a little smirk. "And the smokes."<br />
<br />
Annie laughed softly, her voice harmonious with the music and the soft ocean sounds. "Yeah, well. I have a few bad habits. I drink, I smoke, I cuss, I hang out at places of ill repute... Good thing I go to Church, huh?" Her eyes twinkled merrily as she smiled at Richie, then they dropped to the silver cross resting against his chest, just above the curved neck of his white tank.<br />
<br />
Richie chortled softly as he turned to settle on the tailgate beside Annie. The old truck groaned slightly as it dipped with his weight. "Yeah, I guess. Go confess your sins and you get to do it all over again with a clear conscience, right?"<br />
<br />
Annie smiled as she admired Richie's handsome profile in the moonlight. Butterfly wings fluttered in her stomach as her eyes lingered on the soft curve of his lips. <i>The Good Lord definitely did something right when he created you...</i><br />
<br />
"Baptists don't confess." Her gentle drawl was filled with amusement. "That's a Catholic thing. We just believe in salvation. We show up every Sunday, and we occasionally take communion. That pretty much covers us." <br />
<br />
Richie turned his face to hers, a gentle grin stretching his lips. "Well that's a Hell of a lot easier than what Catholics do. Not that it really matters to me. I haven't been to Mass in months. My Ma would kill me if she knew that." He chuckled softly, then dropped his gaze to the matches and cigarettes in his hands. "Though I have a feeling she knows."<br />
<br />
"Think she knows you're sittin' here in the moonlight with a girl, drinkin' beer and gettin' ready to smoke a doobie?" Annie couldn't resist the question, delivered in a gentle tease.<br />
<br />
Richie snorted out a laugh at that. "Naw. But I'm pretty sure it wouldn't be a surprise to my Old Man." He looked again at Annie, then laid the cigarettes and matches on the tailgate between them. He pulled the joint from behind his ear and held it out to Annie. "You find somethin'?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah." Annie took the cigarette with one hand while reaching behind her with the other. Richie laughed again when he she pulled a worn black felt cowboy hat onto her lap. His brown eyes shone with amusement as he watched Annie detach a metal clip from the hat's decorative band, then hold it up for his inspection. Three leather cords embellished with wooden beads and white and brown feathers dangled from the clip. The feathers stirred lightly in the breeze.<br />
<br />
"Forgot I had this thing. Got it at the county fair." Annie carefully clamped the metal alligator clip over one end of the joint, then turned and tossed the hat behind her, into the pickup bed. It landed with a soft <i>thump </i>against the wooden footlocker. <br />
<br />
She giggled again, then smiled shyly as her eyes met Richie's. "Well, it ain't like I do this a lot. Smoke weed, I mean. And I really <i>did </i>buy this thing just because I thought it was pretty." She gestured toward Richie with the clip in her hand, making the feathers swish with the movement.<br />
<br />
Richie nodded. "Hey, no need to explain to me. I ain't exactly no angel, neither." He picked up the matchbook, flipped it open, and tore a match from the strip. "You ready?"<br />
<br />
Annie nodded, then leaned toward Richie. Richie swallowed hard as he watched Annie's shiny pink lips pucker around the end of the joint, ready to suck in a breath when he ignited the other end. For a second his mind flashed on the image of Annie's pretty lips encircling his cock. Richie's hand trembled slightly as it poised over the striker on the matchbook. <i>Jesus....</i><br />
<br />
Clearing his throat as he shook the image out of his brain, Richie dragged the matchhead against the striker and cupped his hand around the little flash of fire. He raised the flame to Annie's waiting hand, trying not to notice the reflection of the firelight dancing in her beautiful eyes. Annie puffed gently as the joint ignited, wisps of smoke curling from the glowing tip of the little cigarette. Almost immediately the sweet, heavy odor of smoldering marijuana drifted through the night air.<br />
<br />
Richie shook out the match and tossed it onto the sand, then watched as Annie worked the joint. He grinned gently as he watched her draw in a deep breath, then hold it. She held out the roach to Richie, offering him a hit as she continued to hold the smoke in her lungs, letting it go to work.<br />
<br />
Richie heard Annie exhale as he took his own hit off the joint. Her soft chuckle was music to his ears as he savored the taste of the sweetly-acrid smoke on his tongue and felt it burn in his chest. Slowly he blew it out, exhaling a long stream of smoke through his mouth and nose as he relaxed. It only took a minute for him to feel the gentle numbing effect of the drug creeping through his synapses. His smile broadened.<br />
<br />
"Man... that's some good shit."<br />
<br />
Annie nodded and chuckled again as she accepted the joint back from Richie. She held it in her hand for a minute, studying it, enjoying the relaxed sensation rolling over her. "Yeah. Like I said, I don't do this a lot, but when I do Charlie always hooks me up good."<br />
<br />
"Charlie, huh?" Richie felt his voice rumble in his chest. "Friend of yours?"<br />
<br />
Annie nodded, raising the joint again to her lips. This time she took a smaller hit, sipping daintily from the end of the joint before handing it back to Richie. She paused while she held in, then released the smoke.<br />
<br />
"He was a couple years ahead of me in school. His sister Betsy was in my class, one of my good friends." Annie giggled. "You know his Daddy."<br />
<br />
"I do?" Richie's brow arched at her statement. He had met a lot of people over the course of the day. He wondered who she meant. "How?" He raised the joint to his lips and took another toke.<br />
<br />
Annie giggled again and leaned back on her elbows, looking dreamily up at the sky. She turned her grin to Richie. "He's fixin' your car."<br />
<br />
Richie's eyes widened as he involuntarily choked on the smoke in his lungs. Coughing and sputtering, Richie gasped for breath, the smoke flowing out of his nose and mouth in a gush. "Wha... What?" he wheezed. "Eh... Eddie?"<br />
<br />
Annie nodded, tossing her head back and laughing out loud at his suprise. Her merry, melodic voice tugged at Richie's heart as he struggled to regain his breath. "Yeah, Richie. Eddie. Charlie's his oldest boy. He works at the paper mill now, but even back in high school he always knew where to get stuff."<br />
<br />
"Christ." Richie took a deep breath, regaining his calm. He was starting to buzz a little now, from the alcohol and from the pot. "I didn't expect that."<br />
<br />
"Why?" Annie held out her hand to Richie, motioning for him to pass the now half-consumed joint. " 'Cause Eddie's a good, honest Christian man? That don't mean Charlie ain't. He's a good guy too. Not a stoner or anything, he just has connections, that's all." <br />
<br />
She smiled slyly at Richie before raising the joint to hover next to her lips. "Besides, you said it yourself. Mama Sambora's Sweet Baby Boy ain't exactly an angel, right? Especially right this minute."<br />
<br />
Richie laughed and nodded slowly at Annie's little dig. "Yeeeeaahhhhh, ..." he drawled. "Guess you're right about that." He considered her comment for a moment, thinking back to his buddies in Jersey. They had all raised their share of Hell together, breaking a few laws and enjoying more than a few illicit substances along the way. And every one of his partners in crime were good guys from good families.<br />
<br />
Annie watched Richie as he drifted away for a moment. She wondered fuzzily what he was thinking about. Whatever it was, it must be good. He was smiling. There was no sign of the pain she had seen the other times he had turned introspective.<br />
<br />
With a little sigh Annie looked away from Richie and up at the sky. It was a beautiful summer night, clear and bright and calm. Thousands of stars twinkled against the velvety blue blanket stretching from horizon to horizon. She took another little puff from the joint, then offered it back to Richie. <br />
<br />
He didn't notice until she gently said his name. He silently took the clip from her hand and regarded it thoughtfully.<br />
<br />
"Richie, come back here." Annie scooted backwards, swinging her feet up onto the tailgate's edge then wiggling her way back into the truck bed, onto the quilt. With a little sigh she stretched out on her back, propping herself up on her elbows and grinning down at Richie.<br />
<br />
Richie felt his pulse race at the sight of Annie lying there, beckoning to him. Jesus, she looked beautiful. Feeling the stirring in his groin, Richie raised the joint for another hit before doing her bidding. <br />
<br />
Hastily toeing off his sneakers and letting them fall to the ground beneath the tailgate, Richie climbed up into the truck bed. He settled beside Annie, careful not to brush the lit end of the dwindling cigarette against the blankets or his skin.<br />
<br />
Annie smiled at him before looked skyward again. "Beautiful, ain't it?"<br />
<br />
Richie followed her glance, looking up at the night sky. "Yeah," he agreed softly. "That's one of the things I've always liked down here in the South." He carefully leaned back on his elbow, shifting onto his hip. "I mean, I know it's the same sky, the one I see in Jersey. But somehow it looks so much bigger from down here. More wide open."<br />
<br />
"Maybe that's just 'cause the country is more wide-open down here," Annie mused. "Not so many people livin' so close together. Lots of little towns, like Darien."<br />
<br />
"Maybe." Richie looked at the remnant of the joint, its amber tip now slowly dying. "Here -- you want the last hit?"<br />
<br />
Annie nodded, turning onto her hip to face Richie. She carefully took the roach from his fingers and raised it to her lips, sucking the last wisps of smoke into her mouth. Richie watched her wide-eyed, fascinated with the pucker and relaxation of her soft lips. He unconsciously exhaled along with Annie as she breathed out the last curls of sweet-smelling smoke.<br />
<br />
Annie regarded the now-dead butt in her hand. To be sure it was extinguished she blew lightly on it, stirring the ash but not rekindling an ember. With a little sigh she turned and reached up to lay the roach clip on the lid of the footlocker, next to the radio. Richie's gaze followed the motion, then lingered on the stirring feathers that dangled over the side of the wooden box.<br />
<br />
"So..." <br />
<br />
Richie's gaze returned to Annabelle at her soft sigh. It took him a second to focus, and he realized he was now feeling very, very relaxed. He felt a contented smile curl his lips as he shifted again, stretching out his long legs and leaning more comfortably on his elbow as he lay facing Annie.<br />
<br />
"Yeah?"<br />
<br />
Annie fluttered her lashes demurely and giggled. "What now? We got beer, and music, and the beach..."<br />
<br />
Richie's smile broadened at the thought of dancing with Annie again, of holding her in his arms and feeling her cheek against his chest. Wondering what music was on the radio, he tried to focus his fuzzy brain on the sounds coming from the little box. He squinted and frowned as he tried to make out the familiar words and melody, then sighed with relief when he recognized the music, almost a full minute later. <br />
<br />
"Maaaaaannnnn.... this is a<i> great </i>fuckin' song. I actually seen Bruce do it a bunch of times, back home." Richie grinned and closed his eyes, his head bobbing gently as his fingers flexed against his leg, fingering out the guitar rhythm to <i>Prove it All Night</i>.<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled softly, her heart melting at Richie's endearing little smile as he drifted into the music. She knew he was feeling as mellow as she was. But she didn't want to just lay there beside him and listen to the radio all night, until they either passed out or fell asleep. She wanted to share more than just a happy high with Richie.<br />
<br />
"Hey, Richie?" Annie watched as slowly his eyes fluttered open, his long lashes parting to reveal those beautiful, deep, wide-pupiled pools of chocolate. "Wanna play a game?"<br />
<br />
He chuckled throatily. "Sure. What kinda game?"<br />
<br />
Annie smirked and shifted to a more comfortable position. The movement made her slide a little closer to Richie on the old quilt. "How about.... Truth or Dare?"<br />
<br />
Richie's eyes opened wider as he grinned. "Truth or Dare? Man, I suck at that game."<br />
<br />
Annie giggled girlishly. "How can you <i>suck</i> at Truth or Dare? It's easy. You just answer a question honestly or take a dare. It ain't fuckin' rocket science."<br />
<br />
Richie felt another little charge in his crotch at Annabelle's swear, coupled with a stab of anxiety at the thought of what truths she might ask him to reveal. He felt closer to her than ever right now, more open and honest, and not just because he was high on grass. Because he was high on <i>her.</i><br />
<br />
Richie knew Annabelle wanted to know more about him, about what really happened in Memphis. About his failure as a musician. But tonight was such a beautiful night, he was feeling so damned good... he just didn't want to go there. Tonight he just wanted to forget about all the dark shit and enjoy himself. Enjoy being with Annie.<br />
<br />
"C'mon, Richie.... <i>please</i>?" Annie's soft plea drew his eyes to hers. When their gazes locked he crumbled.<br />
<br />
"Oh... <i>alright.</i> But just for a little while." Richie grinned goofily. <i>Fuck it.</i> "You go first."<br />
<br />
"Okay." Annie's eyes sparkled merrily as she considered her first move. "Truth or Dare?"<br />
<br />
Richie closed his eyes and grimaced. He was probably going to regret this. "Truth."<br />
<br />
Annie swore silently. She was hoping he would say "dare." She already had one of those figured out. <br />
<br />
"Okay.... um.... When and where did you lose your virginity?"<br />
<br />
Richie's eyes opened and his brows arched as he grinned at Annie's question. It wasn't at all what he expected. "Well, get right to the point, I see?" he teased her gently. "Okay.... um...." Richie squinted again as he tried to recall the night he had popped his cherry. "Let's see.... it was nineteen.... uh... seventy-four, I guess? Yeah. I was fifteen. Summer of '74."<br />
<br />
Annie's brows lifted at Richie's statement. He was fifteen in 1974? That would make him what, nineteen or twenty now? Her mind flashed back to their initial encounter yesterday, when she had playfully chided Richie for asking her age. When she turned the question around on him he said he was twenty-two. <br />
<br />
Annie grinned slyly. Well, well. Apparently Richie did have some truths to disclose in their little game. She spoke up, prodding him to continue his answer. "Okay, 1974... where? And how did it happen?"<br />
<br />
"Hey, you didn't ask for details!" Richie protested playfully. "Just where and when!"<br />
<br />
"I know, but you gotta tell me how it happened, too. For Christ's sake, Richie. I'm sure it ain't no secret." Annie's demand was lightened by the teasing lilt in her voice and her eager grin.<br />
<br />
He sighed melodramatically. "Oh-<i>KAY.</i> It was summer 1974, in Wildwood. That's down the Jersey Shore. Some buddies and me were hangin' out at a beach house, havin' a party with a bunch of guys and girls. You know, drinking beer, smokin' a little wacky tobacky..." <br />
<br />
Richie paused and gave Annie a lopsided grin. "Anyway, there was this real pretty girl there, long blonde hair, great tits. She was 17 or 18. She took me back in the bedroom and gave me my first blowjob, which was fuckin' great. Then she got me hard again and let me do her." <br />
<br />
Annie giggled. "And was it good?"<br />
<br />
"Fuck yeah!" Richie laughed. "Shit, any guy will tell you his first time was good. Especially when you get blown." He paused again, grinning with the memory. His cheeks colored lightly as he realized how blunt he was being. "But I guess honestly I probably wasn't that good. It all happened pretty fast."<br />
<br />
"And the girl? You still know her?"<br />
<br />
"Naw. Some chick from South Jersey. She was somebody's cousin's friend, just up to hang at the Shore. Her name was Julie, I think. She had a great rack."<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled softly at the dreamy expression on Richie's handsome face. She loved that he got a happy little far-away look when he talked about his friends or his parents or New Jersey. It was obvious he missed the place, that his torment came not from his home, but from somewhere else. Something relating to his musical experience.<br />
<br />
But she didn't want to try to solve that mystery tonight. Richie's happiness was just too sweet. She didn't want to take it from him. She'd rather let him bask in the good memories, let this night create a new memory that would make him smile when he looked back on it.<br />
<br />
"So, you were fifteen, huh?" Annie repeated the point, wondering if Richie would catch on that she had figured out his fib.<br />
<br />
"Yeah." Richie nodded. "Just turned. It was middle of July, right after my birthday."<br />
<br />
Annie quickly did the calendar math in her head. Today was June 30th, so that meant..... <i>Well well. He's only nineteen.</i> Annie smirked. <i>But for nineteen he's quite a Man...</i><br />
<br />
"Okay, I told you the truth. Now my turn." Richie pushed himself up a little higher on his elbow, focusing his attention on Annie. "Truth or Dare?"<br />
<br />
Annie considered the question for a moment, then decided. She would let him warm up a little before challenging him to come up with a dare for her.<br />
<br />
"Truth."<br />
<br />
"Okay, how did <i>you</i> lose <i>your</i> virginity?" Richie grinned triumphantly, proud he had turned the tables on her.<br />
<br />
Annie tossed back her head as she laughed, then smirked at him. "Oh, <i>real</i> original question there, Richie." She giggled again, then answered. "I was sixteen, it was after the Homecoming Dance, in the back seat of Bobby Gentry's Daddy's Cadillac Coupe de Ville, parked out at Grover's Point." <br />
<br />
At Richie's questioning look she added, "That's down South of town, on the Intercoastal Waterway. Pretty little place, lots of good hiding places for makin' Mischief." Annie winked at Richie. "And no, it wasn't that great. He was a virgin too, and we kinda made a mess of things. But with time and practice it got better."<br />
<br />
Richie chuckled. "Fair enough." He smiled at Annie for a minute before prodding her. "Okay, your turn."<br />
<br />
"Truth or Dare, Richie?"<br />
<br />
Richie took a dramatic deep breath before answering. He was actually having fun with this little game, just relaxing out here under the moon and the stars with Annabelle. She was so pretty and sweet and kind and funny... Richie felt like he could talk to her all night. But he wanted to make things interesting, see what more "mischief" she might surprise him with.<br />
<br />
"Dare."<br />
<br />
Annie's eyes widened at his response. "Oh, really? <i>Dare?</i>" She grinned devilishly. "You sure you wanna do that?"<br />
<br />
Richie nodded. "Uh huh. Bring it on." He made a little beckoning gesture with his fingers, inviting her to continue.<br />
<br />
Annie stared at Richie for long a moment. Then her grin faded, softening to a hopeful smile.<br />
<br />
"Kiss me."Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-45364426096377650232011-03-25T21:00:00.013-04:002011-05-08T15:46:23.121-04:00Chapter 15Richie's pulse raced at Annie's quiet request. He nodded slowly. "Um... okay."<br />
<br />
"Just... just gimme a minute, 'kay?" Annie gently patted Richie's chest before stepping back from the circle of his arms. "Meet me up in front."<br />
<br />
"Okay." Richie's heart skipped at the sweet smile Annie gave him before she turned and hurried toward the door to the back room.<br />
<br />
Richie stood staring after Annie for a minute, then realized he should probably move away from the dance floor. He was just standing there, being lightly jostled by the couples moving around him. He glanced back at the table he and Annie had shared earlier and saw it had been taken over by another couple. There was no sign of the whiskey bottle.<br />
<br />
With a little shrug Richie began to weave through the crowd toward the front door. It was slow going; it seemed as if there were now twice as many people crowded into the joint as there had been just a half-hour ago. Richie remembered Annie's comment about the paper mill shift ending. He wondered if the new arrivals were those shift workers she had mentioned.<br />
<br />
"Hey!" Richie was startled by a deep growl to his right. Thinking he had inadvertently pushed someone a little too hard as he attempted to navigate through the crowd, Richie stopped. <br />
<br />
"Sorry, Man..." Richie blinked at the huge black man staring back at him. He swallowed hard and wondered what he had done wrong to draw attention to himself.<br />
<br />
The big man's sweaty ebony face split into a wide grin. Richie's gaze was immediately drawn to the gold front tooth revealed by the parting of his dark lips. Somehow that tooth made the guy look ominous despite his smile.<br />
<br />
"That some hot gee-tar playin' you done up there, Boy." The compliment was delivered in a baritone growl, and a beefy hand clapped down on Richie's shoulder.<br />
<br />
Richie let out a silent breath of relief. He smiled and nodded humbly. "Thanks, Man."<br />
<br />
"Welcome." The big man nodded back, then turned his attention back to the woman at his side.<br />
<br />
Realizing his mouth was dry, Richie swung his gaze toward the bar. He saw an open space at its end, vacated by the older man he had spoken with earlier. Craving a cold drink, Richie pushed forward through the crowd again. <br />
<br />
This time the bodies parted a little more easily to allow him to pass. Richie smiled as he felt a couple more slaps on the back and heard a few more compliments on his performance. He nodded back and mumbled a humble "thanks" to each.<br />
<br />
Finally Richie reached his destination, relieved to have a little breathing room in the small empty space. He stepped up to the bar and puffed out a breath, ruffling his sweaty bangs. Reaching into his jeans pocket, Richie fished out a handful of crumpled bills as the bartender caught his nod and turned to pull a beer from one of the battered old iceboxes in the corner.<br />
<br />
"On the house." The bartender muttered gruffly as he set the longneck on the bar in front of Richie. "Good set, Son."<br />
<br />
Richie smiled gratefully. "Thanks, Man," He shoved the bills back into his pocket before picking up the bottle. He tipped the neck toward the bartender in salute before taking a long drink. Richie groaned softly as the cold liquid soothed his parched throat.<br />
<br />
"Where's Annie?" <br />
<br />
Richie started slightly at the husky growl. He felt the space around him close as Rex stepped up to the bar next to him. Immediately the bartender pulled another beer from the icebox and set it in front of the stocky man.<br />
<br />
"Dunno." Richie stiffened as he gave Rex a wary once-over. "Bathroom, I guess."<br />
<br />
Rex took a swig from his bottle before answering, a little smirk in his tone. "Sure she didn't run on outta here, out the back door?" He turned his cold blue eyes to stare at Richie.<br />
<br />
Richie could see Rex was baiting him. He forced himself to remain cool though he felt his temper rising. He shrugged again. "She wouldn't do that."<br />
<br />
Rex chuckled ominously. "Yeah, sure she wouldn't." He turned around to look toward the stage, obviously dismissing Richie's comment. He raised the beer bottle to his mouth again.<br />
<br />
Richie mirrored Rex's action, himself looking back toward the musicians across the room. He took a big gulp of his beer and silently fumed as he watched Sammy play the gold Gibson. What the fuck was Rex up to? His calm, inhospitable countenance was starting to get a little unnerving.<br />
<br />
"You boys playin' nice?" Richie breathed a silent sigh of relief at Annie's lilting drawl. A smile turned his lips as he watched her emerge from the crowd. Annie gave Richie a meaningful look before stepping up to the bar, her hip bumping against his as she slid into the small space between him and Rex.<br />
<br />
Rex chuckled darkly and gave Annie a little smirk. "I'm always nice."<br />
<br />
Annie snorted softly at his sarcastic comment but she didn't reply. Instead she addressed the bartender. "Hey Grover, can I get a package to go?"<br />
<br />
Richie's brow lifted at Annie's request. He wondered if "a package" meant the same thing here as it did in Jersey. His question was almost immediately answered when Rex turned to give Annie a long look.<br />
<br />
"What you need a package for?"<br />
<br />
Annie raised a hand to brush a thick lock of honey-gold hair back from her face, tucking the errant strand behind her ear. "None o' your beeswax, Rexy." She stared back at him, a defiant smirk curving her lips.<br />
<br />
"It's my business as a Lawman of this county," he replied with a touch of sarcasm. "This not bein' a State store, and all. You're purchasin' alcoholic beverages from an unlicensed retailer, in violation of the ordinances of McIntosh county and the laws of the State of Georgia."<br />
<br />
Richie bit back the urge to make a smart-ass comment about Rex using lots of big words in one sentence. Annie was doing fine on her own, dealing with this smug Jackass. He figured he was better off to keep his mouth shut. But if Rex tried to pull any crap, Richie sure as hell was going to stand up for her.<br />
<br />
Annie snorted out a little laugh at Rex's parroted legalese. "Yeah right, Deputy Farrell. Go on and arrest me for buyin' beer from an unlicensed joint. As you sit there and drink at the unlicensed bar."<br />
<br />
"I didn't pay for mine. No law against drinkin' a free beer."<br />
<br />
"Well, when I drink my beer, it <i>won't</i> be here. So you don't have to worry your pretty little head about it, Darlin'." Annie smiled sweetly. "You aren't duty-bound to act upon somethin' you don't witness."<br />
<br />
Richie smirked as he watched the exchange between Rex and Annie. It was obvious Rex wanted to know where Annie was headed; the second she had ordered her "package" he knew she was ready to leave Ruby Mae's. But she was standing her ground.<br />
<br />
Annie grinned and handed Grover a five-dollar bill as he set a brown paper bag in front of her on the bar. "Thank you, Sir. You have a good night now, hear?"<br />
<br />
"You too, Girlie." Grover smiled back at Annie, his gaze flicking momentarily to Richie, then back to her. "You leavin' early tonight, huh?"<br />
<br />
Annie's eyes sparkled as she smiled slyly at the bartender. "Yeah, I got a houseguest to entertain." She picked up the bag and stepped back from the bar. " 'Night, Grover. Come on, Richie."<br />
<br />
With a nod Richie raised his beer bottle to his mouth. He drained its contents, then set the bottle on the bar. "Night," he said to Grover, then turned and nodded at Rex. He couldn't resist. "Nice to meetcha."<br />
<br />
Rex fixed Richie with an icy stare but didn't reply.<br />
<br />
Smirking inwardly, Richie turned away. Placing his hand gently at the small of Annabelle's back, he followed her away from the bar and toward the door. He could feel Rex's glare on him as he retreated. Richie chuckled smugly.<br />
<br />
Annie heard Richie's little snicker near her ear. She grinned, recalling Rex's expression at Richie's parting comment. She hadn't missed the hint of sarcasm in his tone, the little "Yeah, I'm leaving with her" jab. <i>Men,</i> she thought with a little shake of her head. <i>Just like dogs, pissin' to mark their territory.</i><br />
<br />
The idea of Richie considering her to be "his" made Annie's smile soften. She had certainly felt safe and comfortable in the circle of his arms as they danced. The recall of how strong and warm his chest felt against her cheek made her heart flutter.<br />
<br />
Annie wondered if she could convince Richie to dance with her at home, maybe out on the porch, under the silvery light of the full moon. They could put on a record and hold each other and sway to the music on the breeze....<br />
<br />
The feel of the night air on her face brought Annie back from her momentary daydream. She felt Richie's hand slip from her back as she took the step down off the Juke Joint's porch. Annie hesitated, waiting for Richie to step down beside her. Their eyes met and Richie and Annie gazed silently at each other for a moment. Annie could see the question in Richie's deep chocolate pools: "What now?"<br />
<br />
Annie felt her cheeks flush and she dropped her gaze. She pushed her hand into her jeans pocket for her truck key. What now? Well, she had an idea...<br />
<br />
"Here, let me..." Richie quickly reached for the brown paper bag tucked into the crook of Annie's arm as she fished in her pocket. He grinned as he felt the six-pack of cans inside. Judging from the look he and Annie had just shared, he was pretty sure they would be empty before sun-up.<br />
<br />
"Thanks."<br />
<br />
Richie waited until Annie retrieved her key, then he followed her silently through the parking lot to her truck. He chivalrously stepped ahead of her to pull open the driver's side door. Annie giggled softly at his manners and climbed inside, then waited for Richie to round the truck and find his seat before starting the engine. She turned her head to give him an inquiring look.<br />
<br />
"So.... where you wanna go?"<br />
<br />
Richie's brow arched as her question caught him off-guard. "Huh?"<br />
<br />
"It's still early. Where you wanna go?" Annie's eyes sparkled in the silvery moonlight as she smiled at Richie.<br />
<br />
"Umm..." Richie shifted in his seat, reaching to set the brown-wrapped six-pack on the floorboard. "I dunno. What's around here?"<br />
<br />
Annie giggled softly. "Not much. There's that other bar I told you about, Bud's. That's where most of the other Darien folks will be. The ones who don't want to hear good Southern Music."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded, understanding the unspoken subtext of Annie's comment. Bud's Tavern would be where Darien's <i>white</i> folks drank on Saturday night. <br />
<br />
During his short time in the South Richie had quickly learned the reality of Southern race relations. The Civil Rights movement may have created laws to treat everyone equal, but racial segregation was still very much the way of life. It was informal and social, but still blacks and whites had their own communities, led their separate lives. Even in small towns like Darien, where everybody knew everybody else.<br />
<br />
"They don't have music there?" Richie smiled as Annie shook her head, her honey-blonde waves shimmering in the moonlight. <br />
<br />
"Just the jukebox." Annie grinned. "No stage for you to get up on and show off for me."<br />
<br />
Richie chuckled at her tease, feeling a little surge of pride. Unconsciously his fingers curved as if moving over guitar strings, the muscle memory a ghost of his earlier activity. "Hey, you <i>wanted </i>me to show off for you. Hell, you <i>begged </i>me to play." His eyes glowed with modest pride as he gazed back at her.<br />
<br />
Annie nodded slowly. "Yeah, I did. And I'm damned glad." She paused, smiling back at him. When she spoke again her voice was softer, full of admiration. "Richie, you were amazing. The way you played... the way you <i>sang.</i>.. You were like a rock star up there on that stage."<br />
<br />
Richie blushed. Unable to look at Annabelle, he dropped his eyes to the seat between them. "Yeah, well... it was fun. But I'm anything<i> but</i> a rock star, Annie. I'm just a guy who can play a few cover songs, that's all."<br />
<br />
Annie's heart melted as she smiled at Richie. It was apparent from his performance tonight that he had talent. And showmanship. And stage presence. The way he had taken charge of the band for those two songs... Wow. And now he seemed almost embarrassed by her praise. <br />
<br />
"Well, we'll just have to agree to disagree 'bout that." Annie chuckled softly. "So, I'm not really in the mood for Bud's, and I don't think you are either..." She paused while Richie raised his eyes to meet hers again. He smiled sheepishly and shook his head.<br />
<br />
"Nah, I'm not. Think I've had enough of meeting people today." Richie chortled quietly. "But then again, I think I met 'em <i>ALL</i> today."<br />
<br />
Annie giggled. "Naw, you didn't meet 'em all. You'd have to go to Church to do that. But you made a pretty good dent in the list."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded, laughing softly with her. With a little sigh he turned his face toward the window, looking out at the bright, full moon. Suddenly he knew where he wanted to go.<br />
<br />
"Can we go to the beach?" Richie looked back to Annie with the suggestion.<br />
<br />
Annie grinned. That sounded perfect. The waves, the moon, a six-pack and the radio... and maybe a little something else to share. Just her and Richie. She felt a little tingle of anticipation shoot through her body. <br />
<br />
"Yes, Richie, we surely can." Annie reached forward to slide the transmission out of Park. "The beach it is."<br />
<br />
A little smile relaxed on Richie's lips as he gazed out the window at the moon while the truck bumped along the rough gravel road leading away from Ruby Mae's. He stole a sideways glance at Annie and saw she was smiling too, her eyes on the road. <br />
<br />
Richie rolled down his window, sighing softly as the breeze swept through the pickup's cab, streaming through his damp hair and brushing away the perspiration that still lingered on his neck and chest. <br />
<br />
He closed his eyes and tipped his head back, inhaling deeply. He could smell the ocean, the light salty tang mingling with the scent of the pines and the marsh grasses in the heavy summer air. Richie felt a surge in his groin as a vision flashed in his mind, of him and Annie locked in a passionate embrace as the gentle surf flowed in around them.<br />
<br />
Annie looked sideways at Richie as she turned the truck onto another dirt road. His head was tipped back against the seat, his beautiful face painted with dappled moonlight as his dark hair fluttered gently in the breeze. The relaxed smile on his soft lips made her melt. There was no trace of the sadness that had haunted him earlier.<br />
<br />
They made the rest of the short drive in silence, lost in their own thoughts. Richie opened his eyes and turned to give Annie a little smile, content with the quiet rumble of the truck's motor and the rush of the breeze. <br />
<br />
When he saw the glimmer of the ocean ahead of them Richie pulled his head forward to look out the windshield. He was surprised to see not a wide, sandy beach, but a narrow strip of rocky breakers backed by a swath of dark, coarse, weedy sand. Richie frowned. This wasn't exactly what he had in mind when he had pictured a romantic moonlit evening on the beach with Annabelle.<br />
<br />
Annie pulled the truck off the dirt road and skirted along the edge of the sand, between the shore and a deep stand of moss-draped pines. The rough terrain made for a bumpy ride, and Richie reached forward to brace a hand on the dashboard to help steady himself in his seat. "Where are we?" he asked, trying not to sound apprehensive.<br />
<br />
Annie grinned. She could tell from Richie's expression that this coastline wasn't what he had expected. But she had purposely taken this route to ensure they would be able to enjoy their privacy. She wanted to continue her evening with Richie completely alone. As in away from the main and secondary roads that she knew Rex and his fellow Deputies often prowled in the wee hours of a Sunday morning, looking for illicit activity.<br />
<br />
She knew a place where they wouldn't be bothered. It just took a little bit to get there. <br />
<br />
"We're in Georgia," she teased. "McIntosh County."<br />
<br />
"Ha ha. I mean..." Richie stopped. He didn't really know <i>what</i> he meant.<br />
<br />
Annie giggled as a large dip in the ground bounced Richie on his seat, almost making him hit his head on the roof. "Hang on, we're almost there."<br />
<br />
"Jesus, I hope so!" Richie reached up with his left hand to clutch at the back of the seat while his right remained braced against the dash. His hand slid behind Annie's shoulder, his thumb rubbing against her soft bare skin.<br />
<br />
The contact sent another shiver through Annie as she guided the truck up and over a couple small sandy dunes and around a large log. She swerved quickly to avoid a stump and silently cursed, tapping the brake to slow the truck's progress. She was eager to get to their destination so she and Richie could continue their evening together. But they sure as hell wouldn't have any fun tonight if she got her truck hung up on some tree trunk or dune out here. It would be a long walk home.<br />
<br />
Finally the truck turned west, skirting the edge of the forest. The terrain leveled out and the pickup's wheels rolled more evenly. Moonlight flooded into the cab as the shadows of the trees receded from their path.<br />
<br />
Richie blinked at the scene before them, then he smiled. Their off-road track had taken him and Annie to a small clearing, a break in the forest where the ocean flowed further inland. <br />
<br />
The rocky breakers were gone and an expanse of flat, shimmering sand stretched from the water to a series of small dunes that separated a grassy field from the water. Small tidal pools dotted the little beach, their shallow puddles glimmering in the moonlight. The surf rushed gently against the flat sand, small waves foaming lightly as they rolled in.<br />
<br />
Annie pointed the truck's nose away from the water, then threw the transmission into Reverse. As she turned to look over her shoulder so she could back the truck toward the beach her arm automatically lifted to rest along the back of the seat. She let out a little gasp of surprise when she felt Richie's arm already occupying the space. <br />
<br />
With little grin Annie rested her arm on top of his, her fingers closing gently around his firm bicep instead of the seat back. A wave of heat flushed over her. She glanced at Richie and saw him smiling at her, clearly welcoming the contact.<br />
<br />
Carefully Annie backed the pickup into a dip between two small dunes, as close to them as she dared without getting stuck in deep dry sand. Turning again to face forward, she slipped her arm from atop Richie's and put the truck into Park before killing the engine. She paused for a moment, taking a deep breath before speaking.<br />
<br />
"Here we are." Annie turned her head toward Richie. "This what you had in mind? It ain't the public beach."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded. "This is perfect." He grinned shyly. "I didn't really wanna go someplace public. Just somewhere we could see the water."<br />
<br />
"Well then, that would be here." Annie chortled softly and tugged at the latch on her door. "Grab the beer. I got a blanket in the back."<br />
<br />
Richie's pulse raced at Annie's comment. Again he flashed on a vision of himself and Annie locked together in a passionate embrace, this time reclining on a blanket spread over the sand. His dick surged against his zipper at the idea.<br />
<br />
"Okay...." Richie mumbled hoarsely, then took a deep breath. He realized his reply was uneccessary; Annie was already out of the truck, leaving the key in the ignition and the driver's-side door standing open. He heard the creak of hinges and a metallic <i>clang</i> as Annie lowered the old truck's tailgate.<br />
<br />
Reaching down to pull the crinkled brown paper bag from the floorboard, Richie climbed out of the truck. He turned around and saw Annie kneeling in the pickup's bed, flipping open the latch on an old army surplus footlocker that sat against the back of the cab. <br />
<br />
Not sure what to do, Richie stood silent and watched as she pushed up the lid and pulled out a rolled sleeping bag. She dropped the bag onto the bed beside her knees, then reached again into the box. This time she extracted a small portable radio, followed by a ragged patchwork quilt. Both items joined the sleeping bag on the truck bed's floor.<br />
<br />
"Uh... can I help with anything?" Richie fidgeted, feeling a little guilty for just standing and staring.<br />
<br />
Annie pushed herself up from her kneel, grinning down at Richie as she stood in the truck bed. "Naw, I got it." Nudging the sleeping bag aside with her foot, she leaned down to pick up the radio before stepping down to the tailgate. "But if you want you can pop me open one-a those beers."<br />
<br />
"Sure." Richie walked to the back of the truck, setting the paper bag on the tailgate and unrolling its crumpled top. He pulled out the six-pack of Budweiser cans and tugged one from its plastic ring. As he worked at the task Annie settled down to sit on the tailgate, her tan legs swinging enticingly as they dangled over its edge. <br />
<br />
"What kinda music you wanna hear?" Annie switched on the radio and twisted the dial. The little plastic box complained with a loud staticky crackle until Annie extended its antenna. "There's only a couple stations we can get out here-- country, oldies, and one rock station, outta Jacksonville."<br />
<br />
"Rock and roll sounds good to me." Richie grinned and nudged his fingertip under the metal ring atop of the beer can in his hand. He worked his finger inside it, then pulled the tab. He yelped out a curse as a loud <i>POP</i> was immediately followed by a hissing gush of foamy malt beverage, showering his head and chest.<br />
<br />
Annie burst out laughing at Richie's surprise beer-shower. He had obviously forgotten that their bumpy ride may have placed the contents of the six-pack under pressure. In truth she hadn't really thought about it either, but she wasn't the one to pull the tab.<br />
<br />
"<i>Mother </i>Fu...." Richie bit his tongue mid-curse, not sure if Annie would be offended by such coarse language. He raised a hand to swipe the beer away from his face, blinking it from his eyes. He looked at the can still in his hand, foam seeping out of its opening. "Well, here's your beer... what's left of it anyway."<br />
<br />
Annie giggled again. "That's okay. I like a nice head, but that's a bit much." Her eyes twinkled merrily as she gave Richie a sly grin, emphasizing the dirty double-meaning of her comment.<br />
<br />
Richie's cock twitched again at her tease. Had he really heard her right? Annie had hinted that she liked to get a little wild, but she hadn't made such an overtly sexual comment to him yet. Richie blushed slightly as he smirked. Maybe his buzz and his dick were making him hear things, turning innocent comments into something more.<br />
<br />
"Uh, well... I'd open you another one but it's just gonna explode too. Probably need to let the rest of those brews settle down a little."<br />
<br />
Annie nodded, giggling again as she turned her attention back to the radio. She twisted the dial a little more, guiding the tuner past varying pitches of squeals and static until she found a clear transmission. She grinned. "That work?"<br />
<br />
Richie nodded at the familiar tune, Journey's <i>Wheel in the Sky. </i> He smiled back at her. "Yeah, that's good."<br />
<br />
"Okay then. This is a pretty good station. Think you'll like it." Annie reached behind her to set the radio on the curved metal wheel well. As she stretched and twisted her pink tank top raised to expose her flat, tanned belly. <br />
<br />
Richie's eyes went immediately to Annie's navel then slid downward, along the frayed edge of the denim hiding her zipper. Annie's cutoffs were low-rise and almost impossibly short, revealing the full length of her firm thighs.<br />
<br />
Richie's dick jumped against his fly at the thought of just what that soft denim covered. He would really like to get her out of those cutoffs.<br />
<br />
As quickly as the naughty thought flashed through his mind, Richie's cheeks colored. He felt guilty for thinking of Annabelle like that, like some piece of tail. She was way better than the other Southern girls he had sweet-talked out of their panties. <br />
<br />
Besides, he could barely form a coherent thought around Annie, let alone sweet-talk her into <i>anything.</i><br />
<br />
No, he was gonna have to somehow keep his dick under control tonight, while they sat out here together under the big moon, sharing beer and music and the sounds of the night. He would have to be content just to be with her. Annie was way too nice a girl for him to try to corrupt. <br />
<br />
But that didn't mean he couldn't drink a beer with her, hold her hand, maybe dance to the music on the radio, if she was willing. Richie sighed softly with frustration as his cock protested that thought. That was what he'd have to be satisfied with tonight. Just holding her and smelling her hair and feeling her cheek against his chest.<br />
<br />
Dammit.<br />
<br />
"Hey Richie?"<br />
<br />
He turned his head toward the sweet sound of his name in her gentle Southern drawl. "Yeah?"<br />
<br />
Annie gave Richie an impish grin. "You know that mischief I mentioned earlier?"<br />
<br />
Richie's brow arched at the coy lilt in her voice. "Uh... yeah?"<br />
<br />
Annie held his gaze for a moment, then gave him a wicked little smirk. Richie's eyes widened as her hands moved to her chest, the fingers of her right hand slipping into the deep scoop-neck of her tank top and disappearing into her cleavage. <br />
<br />
His lips parted in a little gasp of surprise when he saw the object she extracted from her bra. Richie stared slack-jawed at the slim, lumpy little twist of paper Annie held delicately between her pink-tipped finger and thumb.<br />
<br />
Annie giggled at Richie's expression. She could see he was shocked by her revelation, but she was pretty sure he wouldn't be adverse to joining in her fun.<br />
<br />
"Wanna get high?"Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-50144792657994043202011-03-17T11:24:00.052-04:002011-05-08T15:45:32.852-04:00Chapter 14<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Annie's radiant smile warmed Richie's heart, softening the dread that still lurked there. He was afraid of the heartache he knew would follow when he played the last note, when he put down Sammy's gold Gibson and stepped down from the stage. But Annie would be there to ease the ache of his private disappointment when he walked away from his dream again.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">It would be worth it. This was the one thing Richie could give to Annie to thank her for her kindness, the only thing she'd asked of him. He owed it to her.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">But he wanted it for himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie took a deep breath as Annie again pressed her body to his, giving him a little hug as she nestled her cheek against his shoulder. The perfume of her hair filled his senses, blocking out the musty odor of stale beer and cigarette smoke that hung in the air. He closed his eyes, shuttering his view of the stage as he guided Annie again into a slow revolution.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">When the closing notes of the song sounded Annie stepped back from Richie and smiled. Capturing his hand in hers, she turned and waved excitedly at Sammy, catching the guitarist’s attention as he reached for his beer bottle. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Sammy raised a brow and nodded at Richie, silently renewing his earlier invitation. Richie gave a little nod back then stumbled forward as Annie practically dragged him toward the stage, pushing between the closely-packed bodies on the dance floor.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Changed your mind, Man?" Sammy grinned broadly when Richie was standing at the edge of the platform that was their rudimentary stage.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Well...." Richie smiled sheepishly and looked at Annie. "She's pretty convincing."<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Cool. Come on up." As Richie stepped up onto the stage Sammy lifted the Gibson away from his body, pulling the strap over his head. Holding the guitar by the neck, he offered it to Richie.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Uh... thanks." Richie hesitated before reaching for the instrument. "Man, you sure? I mean..."<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Richie, just<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>take</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>her already." Sammy's remark was scolding but his tone was merry. His cheeks crinkled with his wide smile.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie felt a tingle of excitement course down his arm and through his body the second his hand closed around the guitar's sleek neck. Immediately he felt a flush of heat. It was as if he was rediscovering a former lover, stealing an illicit rendezvous. Richie winced at the almost sexual intensity of his reaction.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">He wasn't supposed to be doing this. He had made the decision to quit. But already it felt too damned good.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie was unable to stop the smile that curved his lips. He drew the strap over his head and settled the guitar against his pelvis, groaning softly at the contact. Automatically his calloused fingertips slid along the frets while his other hand caressed the sleek curved wood at his hip.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"She's nice," he remarked huskily, looking up at Sammy. "Real nice."<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Thanks." Sammy smirked. "She's a lady, but you don't gotta be gentle. She likes it hard."<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie grinned at the innuendo, his eyes gleaming as they locked with Sammy's. They exchanged a look, understanding each other perfectly. Richie realized he and Sammy were two of a kind, bonded in the brotherhood of music. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"I'll see if I can give her what she wants." Richie chuckled throatily with his own sly remark.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Sammy nodded and turned to look at his band-mates, who were watching the exchange between their young guitar player and their apparent guest musician. "Gentlemen, this is Richie. He's from up North, here visitin' Annabelle. He's gonna sit in on a few, if that's fine by y'all."<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Sammy's introduction was met by a chorus of "uh huhs" and "oh yeahs" from the older men. Sammy quickly named off the band members for Richie: Ralph the piano player, Smokes the drummer, Elvin the trumpeter, and Big Moe on the bass violin.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">The grizzled bass player's dark eyes twinkled as he grinned at Richie. "Think you can keep up with us, Son?"<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie nodded and drew a hand through his sweaty hair. "I'm sure gonna try, Sir."<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">His polite response brought a chorus of snorts and guffaws from the men. Richie smiled bewilderedly at their reaction, not understanding what was so funny about his reply.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Son, thanks for the fancy manners, but tonight we just some Down and Dirty Dawgs, ya hear? We just here to play some rock and soul, give these hard-workin’ people somethin' to dance to." Big Moe paused, giving Richie a deliberate once-over. "Now, you know some blues chords?"<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Yes Si... I mean, Yeah." Richie quickly corrected himself as he nodded.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Richie was playin' in Memphis for awhile." Annie's voice betrayed her excitement as she spoke up on his behalf. "He even played on some records."<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie tried to ignore the little stab in his gut at her eager words. He turned to look at Annie and found her beaming, her cheeks flushed a rosy pink and her blue eyes sparkling. He really wished she'd stop telling everybody about his ill-fated visit to Memphis. He knew she was excited and trying to help, but <i>Jesus</i>. She just didn't understand. He had nothing to brag about.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"That so?" Ralph's gravely voice rumbled across the little stage. "You play down on Beale Street, Boy?"<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie nodded, humbly dropping his gaze to the floor as he smiled. "Yeah. Did some club gigs and stuff."<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">"Well Shee-it." A grin split Ralph's heavy ebony face. "Then you fo' damned sure can keep up with us folk. How 'bouts a little Big Mama Thornton to get it started?” He arched a bushy brow, waiting to see if the shaggy White Boy <i>really </i>knew the Blues.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie couldn’t stop his smirk as he recognized the piano player’s challenge. He struck a chord on the Gibson, his heart flipping at the sweet tone. “You got it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Awl-raght then.” Ralph nodded and turned to face his piano. Crashing his fingers down on to the keys and throwing his head back, he belted out a hoarse wail.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">YOU AIN’T NOTHIN’ but a Hound-Dog…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">At precisely the right second Richie hit the first phrase of the song, pleasure surging through him as the Gibson’s body vibrated against his pelvis. The rest of the band jumped in on cue, Smokes and Big Moe laying down the beat to the old Blues lament about a no-good man. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Automatically Richie began tapping his foot and bobbing his head as he played, picking out the understated accompaniment to Ralph’s screaming vocals. He grinned when Ralph turned to give him a wink, an unspoken “attaboy” to the Yankee who knew this song in its original arrangement, the way it sounded before it was made famous by Elvis Presley. Richie nodded back at the Piano Man, acknowledging his praise.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">He glanced to his left, to the side of the stage where Annie had moved as the crowd on the dance floor began to shimmy and sway. He saw her watching him with rapt attention, her eyes and lips shining in the violet light cast from the stage. The corner of Richie’s mouth twitched upward as his eyes met hers for a moment, then he turned back to the band. He didn’t want to be distracted by her now, while he was proving himself to these seasoned musicians. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">At the end of the second verse Richie felt himself grin. Adrenaline coursed through him as he closed his eyes and let his heart take over. Effortlessly his fingers slid over the strings, picking out an expressive solo. In a mere twelve measures he felt his soul take flight.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">It felt damned good.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Ahhhh… you made me feel so blue….<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">You made me weep and moan<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">You made me feel so blue<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">You made me weep and moan<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">‘Cause I’m lookin’ for a woman<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">All you’re lookin’ for is a home….<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">You ain’t nothin’ but a Hound Dog<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Snoopin’ round my door<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">You ain’t nothin’ but a Hound Dog<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Snoopin’ round my door<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">You can wag your tail <o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">But I ain’t gonna feed you no more.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie’s eyes opened and he turned to look at the musicians with whom he stared the little stage. He flushed slightly when he saw them all grinning broadly at him as they played along, creating an extended outro to the song. There was no doubt he had passed their test. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">With a flourish Richie hit a solid end note, then grinned as he bent it a little longer than necessary. He relished the feel of the Gibson in his hands. As the song died he craved more.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">The crowd clapped and whooped as Ralph took a little bow. He settled back on his bench and turned to shout over his shoulder at his young guitarist. “How ‘bout some Fats!” Then he pounded out a staccato phrase of piano chords, introducing the next song.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><i>I found my thrill</i></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><i>On Blueberry Hill....</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie tossed his head back as he laughed, immediately settling into the wandering swing melody to back up Ralph’s piano and vocals. This song was an old friend; he had learned it on the piano years ago. Richie felt a little twinge of homesickness as the vision of his parents dancing together in their living room flashed again in his mind. Automatically his gaze turned to Annie.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">This time Richie didn’t glance away. As always before, the guitar in his hands somehow gave him confidence and cool. He gave Annie a little wink, then boldly let his eyes slide over her body. She was swaying gently back and forth, rocking her hips in time to the rollicking beat. Richie felt himself respond to the mesmerizing movement, his dick pushing gleefully against his zipper .<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie sucked in a deep breath at the flush of desire that raced over him. Tearing his eyes away from the hypnotic roll of her hips, Richie raised his gaze to meet Annie’s. His heart warmed at the enraptured smile on Annabelle’s pretty face and at the sparkle in her clear blue eyes. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Jesus, she was beautiful. And she was smiling at him.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">It took Richie a moment to realize his lips were moving. Surprised, he grinned as he continued to sing along, backing up Ralph’s vocals.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Though we’re apart<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">You follow me still<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">For you were my thrill<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"> On Blueberry Hill<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie struck the harmonious chord to end the song, giving Annie another little grin before turning back to face his bandmates.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Not <i>bad</i> , Son… not bad!” Big Moe nodded his approval at Richie as he reached for his drink. “Think you got a few more in ya?”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie nodded eagerly. “Yeah, Man. Whatever… I’ll jump right in.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“You jumpin’ in with <i>both </i>feet now!” Ralph laughed, mopping his sweaty brow with a dingy bar rag. “Shee-it, a few more and Sammy’s goin’ think we done replaced him with a long-haired Yankee.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie laughed at the big man’s prediction. “Naw, I don’t think so. One night only.” His smile gentled as he shot another glance in Annie’s direction.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Ralph noticed. “Ohhhh Lawdy! Yankee-Boy’s tryin’ to impress a Woman.” He grinned. “It workin’?”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Feeling his cheeks color, Richie was suddenly grateful for the dim lighting. He shrugged. “Don’t know. She just wanted to hear me play, is all.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Well, Son… from the looks of things you’re doin’ just fine.” Elvin the trumpet player tipped his head toward Annabelle, giving Richie a little smirk. “I been knowin’ Annie since she was a little girl. That’s a <i>real </i>smile you got there.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Uhhh….” Richie shifted uneasily, adjusting the Gibson’s strap across his shoulder .<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Ralph let out a chortle at Richie’s sudden discomfort. “Well c’mon, Son… let’s give her somethin’ more to smile about. What you wanna play?”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Huh? Me?” The Piano Man’s question caught Richie off guard. He figured he would just jam, go along with whatever music the band wanted to play. After all, it was their set, not his.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Do you see any other Gee-tar totin’ Yankee Boy on this stage?” Ralph’s good-natured tease made Richie chuckle, then shake his head.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“No, Sir.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“There he goes again with that mannerly shit!” Amused by Richie’s reaction to their teasing, Big Moe added his poke. “Come on, Yankee. Surely you got somethin’ you wanna play, to show off for Miss Annabelle over there. She got eyes for you, Boy. You do it right you maybe gonna get a goodnight kiss tonight.” Moe chortled gleefully as Richie fidgeted again.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“C’mon, Son. These folks is waitin’ to dance.” Ralph prodded Richie again. “Give us somethin’.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie thought for a second, then grinned. He knew what to play. “Alright… ready?”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“You just go on, Boy. We’ll pick it up.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">With a deep breath Richie stepped up to the front of the stage, under the beam of a blue stage light. He felt a rush of excitement as he fingered the first electric notes, launching into the immediately-recognizable lick introducing “Johnny B. Goode.” </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie heard a whoop and a laugh behind him and he knew he had chosen well. His eyes squinted closed and his grin broadened as he let the music move him again. He felt his hips and shoulders rocking to the beat as Ralph picked up the vocals.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Down in Lou-si-anna near to New Orleans<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Way back up in the woods among the evergreens…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Annie clasped her hands together and held them to her chest as she laughed. The pure joy in Richie’s expression made her heart swell with happiness. He looked so handsome, so confident and cool as his hands flew over the strings. Now there was no sign of the quiet sadness that had seemed to surround Richie during his brief time in her company.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: black;">“Day-um!”</span></i><span style="color: black;"> Annie giggled when she heard Sammy’s voice near her ear. She gave her friend an enthusiastic grin as he stepped up beside her. Sammy handed Annie a cold beer and nodded toward the stage. “Look at him go! Boy can flat-out <i>play</i>!”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Yeah!” Annie couldn’t stand still in her excitement. “He’s great, ain’t he?” As she raised the bottle to her lips her hips swayed in a little twisting rhythm.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Well come on, Girl! You ain’t standin’ still!” Sammy reached for Annie’s hand, joining her in her twist. Annie tossed her hair back as she laughed merrily, turning to face Sammy as they danced together to the rollicking tune. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">The movement caught Richie’s attention and he glanced over at Annie. He was momentarily startled to see her dancing with some guy, a little twinge of jealousy shooting through him. Then he recognized her partner as the owner of the guitar strapped across his body. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">He grinned. Richie had no problem with Sammy sharing a dance with Annie. At least she wasn’t dancing with that asshole Rex.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Take it, Richie!” Ralph’s shout of his name snapped Richie’s attention back to his performance. Automatically he stepped up to the microphone positioned next to Big Moe’s bass. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">He used to carry his guitar in a gunny sack<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Go sit beneath a tree near the railroad track<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Oh, the engineers would see him sittin’ in the shade<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Strummin’ with the rhythm that the drivers made<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">People passin’ by they would stop and say<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">My oh my that little country boy could play…<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Annie froze in mid-twist at Richie’s voice belting out the lyrics in a bluesy growl. Her jaw dropped as she stared at him up on the stage, watching him sing into the microphone as he continued to riff furiously on the Gibson. Richie had said he could sing, but not that he could sing like <i>this.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Sammy laughed at Annie’s reaction to Richie’s vocals. He could tell she was sweet on the guy; tonight he had watched her smile and giggle like a high-schooler around Richie. From what he could tell she had picked a nice guy on which to focus her attention. And one hell of a musician.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Annie’s expression turned to a gentle smile as she watched Richie launch into to the mid-song guitar solo. The passion in his playing was obvious; the melody that sang from the guitar seemed to come from his whole body rather than the instrument. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">She chortled softly as she saw Richie squint his eyes shut, his face contorting into a raptured grimace and his lips first puckering then drawing back to reveal tightly clenched teeth. Richie’s body was as expressive as his face, bending forward at the waist then arching backward as he aimed the Gibson’s neck skyward as the rapid notes flew from his fingertips. His sweat-streaked skin glowed in the reddish-blue stage lights and his hair curled in damp strands across his forehead and against his neck.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">He was breathtaking.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Annabelle wasn’t the only one who appreciated Richie’s impassioned guitar work. As Ralph and Big Moe launched back into the chorus of <i>Go! Go, Johnny Go!</i> the juke joint erupted with applause, whoops, and hollers. Richie grinned broadly at the crowd and touched his fingers to his forehead in a little salute, then continued to play. He stepped up to the mic beside Big Moe and added his voice to the chorus.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">The song continued on for another five minutes, Ralph renewing the chorus three more times as the crowded dance floor pulsed with energy and Richie continued to burn up his guitar strings. Finally the big man called the end of the song, standing up at the piano and pounding his hands down on the keys with a loud disharmonious <i>plunk</i>. A final crashing riff from Richie was met with renewed applause.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Wiping a hand across his sweaty face, Richie turned to grin at Annabelle. The look of pure awe on her beautiful face made his heart leap in his chest. He could hardly believe that look was for him. But he knew it was. He had made her happy, had given her what she asked for. His music.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie’s gaze slipped to Sammy, who was standing beside Annie, clapping and hollering with the rest of the crowd. Their eyes met and Richie gave the young man a grateful smile. His heart twinged with disappointment as he realized it was time to step down, to let Sammy return to his place on the stage.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">But first he wanted to do just one more song. For Annie.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Turning around to face the musicians, Richie called out over the din. “Follow me!” He ignored the surprise on Big Moe’s face at his command. He prayed the men would overlook his audacity at taking the lead, that they would cut the “Yankee Boy” a little slack in his one and only jam session in this backwoods joint.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie took a deep breath and shot another glance in Annie’s direction. Her smile buoyed his confidence as he stepped up to the mic and struck the moody, rambling riff that preceded the lyrics. His eyes drifted closed as his lips moved in close to the microphone head.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><i>There is a house in New Orleans<o:p></o:p></i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><i>They call the Rising Sun<o:p></o:p></i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><i>It’s been the ruin of many a poor boy<o:p></o:p></i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><i>And God, I know I’m one</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie felt his body relax, a euphoric flush sweeping through his synapses. He heard the rest of the band kick in: the bass, the drums, the piano. The noisy juke-joint din in his ears quieted to a hum as the high carried him away. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">It was better than any drug, sweeter and more powerful than any substance he had ever tried. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie's soul came pouring out in his whiskey-roughened croon.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">My mother was a tailor<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">She sewed my new blue jeans<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">My father was a gamblin’ man<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Down in New Orleans<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Now the only thing a gambler needs<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Is a suitcase and a trunk<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">And the only time he’s satisfied<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Is when he’s on a drunk<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie’s chin dropped to his chest and he took a half-step back from the microphone. His eyes remained closed and his soft lips pressed together as he fingered out a mournful solo on the magic gold Gibson. He heard Elvin’s muted trumpet cry out a pained melody, an improvised solo that melded with the rambling of Ralph’s piano and the deep thumping twang of Big Moe’s bass. The quiet snick of the drums ticked away like a watch.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Annie stood stock-still, her eyes gleaming bright blue as she stared at Richie. She could hardly breathe. She had always loved this musical lament of a life gone wrong; she had the Animals’ record in her stereo cabinet at home. But she had never heard such a soul-wrenching rendition of this song. Richie’s performance was almost heartbreaking. It was as if he was living and breathing the lyrics that slid from his soft lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Oh mother, tell your children<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Not to do what I have done<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Spend your lives in sin and misery<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">In the House of the Rising Sun<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Well I got one foot on the platform<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">The foot other on the train<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">I’m goin’ back to New Orleans<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">To wear that ball and chain<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Well, there is a house in New Orleans<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">They call the Rising Sun<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">And God I know I’m one<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">And God I know I’m one<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie stood motionless at the microphone as he felt the last notes vibrate from the Gibson that rested against his body. Then it was silent and still. His heart sank and his chin dropped to his chest.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">It was over.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Suddenly the roar of the crowd rushed all around him, pulling him from his trance. He slowly raised his head and opened his eyes to find a sea of grinning faces. With a humble nod and a little wave he acknowledged the crowd’s appreciation, then he turned his back to them. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">He heard Ralph calling out his name, urging the crowd to continue their applause for his performance. But he couldn’t turn back around. He couldn't face them. It would make him want more.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie’s heart gave a dull throb of protest as he as he lifted Sammy’s guitar away from his body, slowly drawing the strap over his head. He winced.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Shit, Man – that was <i>fantastic</i>!” <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie turned to give the young guitarist a little smile. He shrugged. “Thanks, Man.” His heart clenched again as he handed the Gibson back to Sammy. “I mean it, Man. Thanks for letting me use her. It… it was great.” Richie swallowed hard, trying to stuff the emotion back down into his gut.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Oh, Richie…”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">The sound of her voice made Richie’s smile turn genuine. He looked past Sammy to where Annie had stepped up onto the corner of the stage. Her blue eyes glittered like sapphires as she gazed back at him. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“That was… that was…” Annie stammered, overwhelmed. “Uh… Oh my.” She took a deep breath, then smiled gently. “Beautiful.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie chuckled and shrugged humbly. “Thanks. I’ve always liked that song.” <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Well shit, how am I gonna top<i> that</i>?” Sammy’s tease turned Richie’s attention back to him. Richie watched the young man sling the Gibson around his neck and settle it at his waist.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“I’m sure you’ll have no problem, Man. <i>No</i> problem.” Richie reached out his hand to Sammy for a grateful shake. “Thanks again. It felt good.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Any time.” With a grin and a wink Sammy turned toward the band, ready for Ralph’s cue.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Richie quickly stepped off the front of the stage, moving out of Sammy’s way. He automatically reached out for Annie’s hand as he saw her move to dismount the platform as well. Her soft, warm hand slid into his and Richie felt his heart throb again. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Annie tugged Richie toward her, leading him a few steps away from the stage as the band launched into an old Ray Charles ballad. Thinking she wanted to dance again, Richie stopped and pulled his hand from hers, slipping his arms around her waist when she turned to look at him. He smiled down at her, waiting for her to loop her arms around his neck and turn her cheek to his shoulder. </span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Instead she placed her palms against his sweaty chest and gazed at her hands for a long moment before raising her face to his. </span>The gleam in her blue eyes made Richie’s knees go weak. Her soft, sultry voice filled his head and made his heart leap.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">“Richie… let’s get outta here.”<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br />
</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-64062909084287044402011-03-11T21:00:00.034-05:002011-05-08T15:45:01.775-04:00Chapter 13Richie took a deep breath and dropped his gaze from Annie's. He couldn't bear to see her misplaced admiration. He was nobody to be impressed by.<br />
<br />
"Naw, Man. Thanks, but I... uh..." Richie frowned slightly as he struggled to graciously decline Sammy's invitation. "I mean, it's your gig. I don't wanna horn in on it."<br />
<br />
Sammy shook his head, disagreeing with Richie's refusal. "Naw, Man! It's cool. This ain't a gig, anyway." He grinned. "It ain't like we're gettin' paid for this or nothin.' This is just practice, a jam session, Man. It's just what we <i>do</i> on Saturday night 'round here."<br />
<br />
That brought a little smile to Richie's lips. He remembered what it was like back in Jersey, just wandering from club to club with his guitar on a Saturday night and sitting down to play with whoever would have him. He had loved those impromptu jams. Few things had made him happier. <br />
<br />
So why was he afraid to do that here? Richie's smile faded. Because those days were gone, that life a thing of the past. And he couldn't look back now.<br />
<br />
Annie's hand squeezing in his made him turn his eyes back to her. He winced as he saw the disappointment on her pretty face. <br />
<br />
"Richie, are you sure?" She was smiling but her voice was soft, almost pleading.<br />
<br />
He nodded, blinking as he looked down at their hands on his lap and mumbled his response. "Yeah. Sorry, Annie. Not tonight."<br />
<br />
She sighed softly. "Well... okay."<br />
<br />
Richie looked back at Sammy, attempting to cover his melancholy with a half-hearted grin. "It's cool watching you guys, though. You're good, Man. Some great tunes, too."<br />
<br />
Sammy grinned back. "Thanks. We have our fun." He slapped his hands against this thighs and turned his smile to Annie before pushing back his chair. "Well, I'm gonna get a cold one before we start in again." He stood, then looked back at Richie. "If you change your mind just say the word. You can come on up with us anytime, Man."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded gratefully. "Thanks." <br />
<br />
With a nod and a farewell to Annie Sammy turned and started to make his way toward the bar, grinning and slapping hands with friends as he passed by them.<br />
<br />
"Richie... why?"<br />
<br />
Annie's gentle question stabbed through Richie's heart. He could hear the disappointment she was trying to mask. He sighed.<br />
<br />
"I just... I just don't feel like it."<br />
<br />
"That's what you said last night."<br />
<br />
Richie's lips pressed together in a firm line. She wasn't wrong; that <i>was </i>the excuse he had used last night when Annie had asked him to play for her. And it was true, mostly. It just wasn't the whole truth.<br />
<br />
"I know. I'm just..." Richie's voice trailed off as he searched for another explanation, one that wouldn't hurt Annie's feelings or betray the truth behind his reluctance.<br />
<br />
"Just what?"<br />
<br />
Richie let out an exasperated sigh at her prodding. He tugged his hand from Annie's and raised it to rake through his hair. "I just..." He turned his face to hers. "I'm just not that good. Okay, Annie? Get it?" Richie's frustration came bursting out in his response.<br />
<br />
Annie's eyes widened at Richie's retort. She knew the source of Richie's sadness had something to do with music and his guitar, but she hadn't expected such an outburst.<br />
<br />
"Oh."<br />
<br />
Richie's heart sank as he saw hurt flicker in Annie's pretty blue eyes. "Annie... I... I'm sorry."<br />
<br />
She gave Richie a small smile then looked away, reaching for her beer bottle. Richie saw a tear glittering in the corner of her eye as she took a sip. Silently cursing himself, Richie reached for his own bottle and gulped down a drink. <br />
<br />
Annie swallowed her beer then turned to face Richie again, a faux-cheery smile curving her mouth even as her eyes sparkled with moisture. She fluttered a hand dismissively. "It's fine, Richie. It's none of my business. I'm sorry I pushed." She scooted her chair backward so she could stand. "Now, I'm going to brave a trip to that Ladies' room." <br />
<br />
Annie turned away from the table, then hesitated for a moment. She looked back over her shoulder at Richie. When she spoke her voice was calmer, more natural. "Maybe you'll feel like dancin' with me when I get back?"<br />
<br />
Richie smiled sheepishly back at her. "Yeah, I'd like that," he answered honestly. <br />
<br />
"Great. Be back in a minute." Annie turned away and headed across the dance floor toward the door to the back room.<br />
<br />
Richie's eyes followed Annie until she disappeared through the doorway. He felt awful about disappointing this woman who had been so sweet and kind to him. But she had asked him to do the one thing he just couldn't bear right now. And he couldn't even explain to her why. She must think he was some kind of lying asshole who probably couldn't even play the guitar.<br />
<br />
"You dumb fucking bastard," Richie mumbled to himself, slouching back in his chair and sighing deeply. He took a long pull at his beer before staring moodily across the room. <br />
<br />
As he cursed himself in his mind Richie's gaze wandered to the stage and settled on Sammy's Gibson. He wondered if Sammy was like him, someone for whom music was an addiction, a drug. Something his heart and mind and soul and even his body craved.<br />
<br />
So far kicking that habit sucked. <br />
<br />
Ever since he was a kid listening to Beatles records on his parents' hi-fi Richie had been in love with music. Adam and Joan Sambora had encouraged his interest, signing him up for piano and accordion lessons and letting him choose the records they listened to during family dinner. They had never belittled his musical taste, even when it turned darker and louder and harder than what they preferred.<br />
<br />
A wistful smile crept to Richie's lips as he pictured his mother and father floating gracefully around their small living room to big-band music and classical waltzes, practicing for their ballroom dancing competitions. When he was little it seemed like they danced all the time, their faces glowing with happiness and contentment. As he grew up they danced less and less, as times grew tough and his Dad had to work double shifts and extra jobs to provide for the family.<br />
<br />
Richie's parents had set aside their dream for reality, to raise him and provide him with everything a growing boy needed and many of the things he wanted. But through it all their music had endured, always present and comforting. When his Ma had kissed him on the cheek and his father shook his hand before he set off for Memphis, Richie knew they were proud of him. And now he knew they would welcome him back without judgment or shame when he returned to face his reality.<br />
<br />
Feeling disappointed tears moisten his eyes, Richie blinked rapidly and angrily brushed a hand across his face. Goddammit, he didn't want to think about this now. He just wanted to escape his gloomy mood, if only for awhile. Annie had brought him here to do just that, and he was determined not to disappoint her further.<br />
<br />
Raising his beer bottle to his lips, Richie downed the remainder of the beverage in a long draught. He wasn't kidding earlier when he told Annie he could stand to get drunk tonight. Suddenly the idea seemed even more appealing. <br />
<br />
Richie pushed his chair back in preparation to head for the bar for another round, but hesitated when he realized leaving their table unclaimed probably wasn't a good idea. A line of newly-arrived patrons were clustered near the front door, peering around the club in an obvious search for seating. Richie frowned as he realized he'd have to wait for Annie to return from the bathroom before fetching fresh drinks.<br />
<br />
As if on cue Richie saw a flash of blonde in the far corner of the club. His eyes followed Annie as she emerged from the back room and wandered toward the bar, stopping to chat with several men and women along the way. It was apparent that Annie was well-known and well-liked in this joint; aside from the smiles and hugs she shared, the men crowded around the bar chivalrously stood aside and let her step up to place her order.<br />
<br />
Richie's unconscious smile as he watched Annie turned to a quizzical smirk as she stepped away from the bar and headed for their table. In one hand she held two longnecks laced between her fingers. In the other she held a brown bottle capped with two plastic cups.<br />
<br />
"Think it's time for a little somethin' different," she announced with a grin, setting the bottles on the table. Richie snorted as he recognized the label on the brown one. It read "Old Grand-Dad."<br />
<br />
"Bourbon?" Richie observed as Annie pulled the plastic cups apart, setting them upright on the table before uncapping the quarter-empty bottle.<br />
<br />
Annabelle gave Richie a smirk. "You said you were stickin' to stuff with labels."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded, chuckling quietly. "Yeah. Seems like a good idea. Still." He watched her pour a healthy shot of whiskey into each of the cups, then accepted the one she held out to him. "What are we drinking to?"<br />
<br />
Annie tipped her head, regarding him thoughtfully. "How about to better days?" Her voice was gentle, relaying her apology for putting him on the spot with her earlier plea for him to play.<br />
<br />
"Works for me." Richie raised his cup and touched its plastic rim against Annie's. "Better days." He hesitated for a moment, watching Annie toss back the shot, her honeyed waves shimmering in the dim light with the brisk movement of her head. Richie gulped down his own beverage, wincing as it burned down his throat and filled his belly with warmth.<br />
<br />
As he reached for his beer to chase the shot Richie heard the random clink of piano keys and a couple bass drum beats. He glanced toward the stage and saw Sammy and the other musicians preparing their instruments for another set. Feeling Annie's gaze on him, Richie looked back to her and smiled.<br />
<br />
"Guess I owe you a dance, huh?"<br />
<br />
Annie shrugged but smiled back. "If you wanna."<br />
<br />
With a grin and a little nod Richie took one more gulp of his beer then stood. He reached for Annie's hand as the first notes of the song started. Silently he cursed; it was a uptempo Blues number and he wasn't a great fast-dancer. Thanks to his parents' teaching and his natural rhythm he could slow dance better than most guys, but his gyrations to fast songs were those of a gangly White Guy. But there was no turning back now.<br />
<br />
Annie giggled softly at the look on Richie's face as he turned to lead her to the dance floor. He hadn't been successful in hiding his grimace at the commencement of the song. She'd have to take it easy on him.<br />
<br />
In just two short steps they reached the edge of the dance floor, crowding into the group that had instantaneously clustered there with the first harmonious note. With not much room to maneuver Richie and Annie faced each other and shared a smile, then began to move to the music, swiveling their hips in a slow twist. <br />
<br />
In spite of his awkwardness Richie grinned as he watched Annabelle, his eyes drawn to her trim hips as they rhythmically rolled and gyrated. He felt the warm whiskey flush in his belly extend lower to his groin when he noticed Annie's breasts were also bobbing tantalizingly as she danced.<br />
<br />
Glancing back toward their table Richie realized his beer was within arm's length. Pausing his awkward twist, Richie reached over and grabbed the bottle by the neck, pulling it to his lips for a long drink. If he was gonna have to dance like this more times tonight he could use a little more liquid courage.<br />
<br />
Annabelle giggled at Richie's relieved expression as he lowered the bottle from his mouth. Playfully arching a brow at him she captured his hand in hers, sliding the bottle from his grip and raising it for a sip of her own. Richie gave her a slightly-dazed smile as she handed the bottle back to him. With a laugh Annie twisted a little closer to Richie, causing their hips to bump against each other.<br />
<br />
"There ya go, Richie," she half-shouted in his ear to be heard over the music. "Let your hair down and let's have some fun tonight."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded and grinned. That sounded like a damned good idea to him.<br />
<br />
By the end of the song Richie had finished his beer. As the band segued into the next number he stepped over to their table to pour another pair of shots, then with a toast he tossed back his second round of whiskey. Its warm glow immediately relaxed him. Suddenly he didn't care what he looked like on the dance floor, moving awkwardly almost-in-time with the fast-paced groove.<br />
<br />
He just let he music take over, like he always had before.<br />
<br />
Annie grinned as she watched Richie's eyes close and a smile curve his lips, his dark hair curling against his sweaty brow. He kept moving, his body rocking as he felt the beat. Her heart warmed as she recognized her own musical euphoria mirrored in Richie's movements. <br />
<br />
He didn't want to play. But at least they could dance.<br />
<br />
By the end of the third song both the band and the dancers were ready for a break. Richie smiled down at Annie as he slipped his arms around her waist. Annie stepped in close, molding her body against Richie's and causing another surge in his groin. He blew a little puff of breath up to ruffle his sweaty bangs as he and Annie began to revolve in a slow circle.<br />
<br />
"Nice to see that smile." Annie's cheek brushed against Richie's as she spoke into his ear.<br />
<br />
Richie tightened his arms around Annie's waist. She responded by pressing her hips suggestively against his as she leaned back to grin up at him.<br />
<br />
"Yeah, well... you're making me smile." Richie's words surprised him. Apparently the Old Grand-Dad was some kind of truth serum. And his buzz was loosening his tongue.<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled and moved her lips back to Richie's ear. "You're making me smile too." She slipped her hands up Richie's chest to circle around his neck, then turned her head to rest her cheek against his shoulder. Her eyes fluttered closed as she smiled blissfully, enjoying the feel of Richie holding her and swaying in time with the slow Sam Cooke song being played by the Juke Joint band.<br />
<br />
Richie's pulse kicked up as he felt another wave of affection for Annie. She was so perfect, so pretty and sweet and kind and smart and she smelled so damned good.... And she was in his arms.<br />
<br />
He wanted her to stay there. He wanted more from her than just a slow dance. He wanted her to kiss him and hold him and murmur sweet nothings in his ear. He wanted to let her do what she wanted to do. Comfort him.<br />
<br />
As they circled slowly on the floor Richie turned to face the band. His eyes immediately found the gold Gibson strapped across Sammy's body. A bittersweet little smile ghosted Richie's lips as he watched the guitarist finger out a mournful solo on the beautiful instrument. Unable to look away, he stopped his and Annie's revolution, swaying with her in place as he watched the young man play.<br />
<br />
Annie smiled to herself as she realized what Richie was doing. In that moment she knew she would get her wish. Richie was letting his guard down, admitting to himself what he wanted, what he needed. Whether it was because of the alcohol or the music or her or all three didn't matter.<br />
<br />
Annie raised her head, again moving her lips next to Richie's ear. "Play," she whispered.<br />
<br />
Richie pulled back and gave her a long, searching look. Annie almost melted as she gazed into the deep chocolate pools, shining in the dim light. His lips curved, then he tipped his head forward in an almost-imperceptible nod.<br />
<br />
"Okay."Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-48593936832564338872011-03-06T21:00:00.004-05:002011-05-08T15:43:27.031-04:00Chapter 12Richie felt his heart thumping in his chest as he held Annie and revolved slowly in place on the dance floor. The warmth of her cheek against his chest felt good. The smell of her hair was Heaven. And with every sway of her hips as they shuffled together in a circle Annie's pelvis rocked firmly against his crotch.<br />
<br />
It was fantastic and maddening all at the same time.<br />
<br />
Richie pulled in and blew out a deep breath. <i>Jesus Christ, pull it together! </i> They'd only been in the place for ten minutes and already he felt out of control. First Annie's asshole ex-boyfriend had awakened his Italian blood and he'd gone all alpha-male, and now he couldn't control his dick. <br />
<br />
So much for playing it cool.<br />
<br />
Annie smiled as she felt Richie's sigh of frustration. She found it sweet that he had gotten so worked up by Rex's harmless little challenge. He was also worked up in other ways, judging from what she felt rubbing against her abdomen as they danced.<br />
<br />
She giggled softly to herself. Poor guy. Eddie was right: Richie really didn't know what to do with himself around her. Annie felt a little guilty for making Richie uncomfortable, but she was just being herself. She couldn't help it if Richie didn't know how to handle that.<br />
<br />
While she was definitely attracted to Richie, Annie didn't mean to tease him. But his arms sure did feel good wrapped around her as they moved in time to the music. <br />
<br />
That she had found herself in Richie's embrace so early in the evening was a pleasant surprise; she certainly had no romantic or sexual motive in her choice of the night's activities. She merely thought Richie might enjoy hearing some good music; it might bring him out of his shell a little, encourage him to talk about whatever was bothering him. <br />
<br />
But now that they were slow-dancing, their bodies in full contact, his discomfort was palpable. Annie was certain it wasn't because of her closeness; though he was obviously attracted to her Richie had acted the perfect gentleman since their chance meeting yesterday. The easy banter they had shared today was evidence that he had come to trust and genuinely like her. But Richie still seemed uneasy, almost defensive. Annie frowned slightly against his chest as she wondered why.<br />
<br />
The last notes of the song filled the air, quickly overcome by clapping and cheers from the juke joint patrons. Her arms remaining around Richie's neck, Annie raised her cheek from his chest and smiled up at him. She almost laughed aloud at his slightly-dazed expression.<br />
<br />
"Umm..." Richie moved his hands to rest lightly on either side of Annie's trim waist. "Let me go get those beers for us."<br />
<br />
Annie chortled and slid her arms from around Richie's neck, then stepped back. "Okay. Thanks for the dance, Richie." <br />
<br />
Richie hesitated for a moment, looking quizzically at Annie as if he hadn't heard her correctly. Then he smiled shyly. "My pleasure." He turned away and began to push his way through the crowd toward the bar.<br />
<br />
Annie stood in their spot on the dance floor and watched him go. Her lips pursed slightly as she wondered what Richie was trying to hide. It wasn't his physical attraction; the way he had held her as they danced made that clear. It was something else. Something he didn't want her to see in his expression or hear in his voice.<br />
<br />
Maybe a couple rounds of beer and a few shots of moonshine were in order. That would surely loosen him up.<br />
<br />
*****<br />
<br />
"Thanks, Man." Richie pulled a couple crumpled bills from his jeans pocket and laid them on the bar before picking up the two bottles of Pabst Blue Ribbon. He took a quick swig from one, groaning softly as the cold beverage soothed his dry throat. Then he turned and surveyed the crowd, looking for Annie.<br />
<br />
She wasn't hard to spot, her blonde hair shining in the dim red-and-blue glow from the stage lights and neon beer signs. Annie had moved from the dance floor to the far side of the room, where she had taken over a small table against the wall. Her hand rested on the back of an empty chair beside hers as she sat watching the band and bobbing her head in time with the soulful music.<br />
<br />
Richie breathed a sigh of relief and began to move toward Annie. He was ready to sit down and blend into the crowd, just hide away and observe. If that was possible, anyway. <br />
<br />
Since he had set foot in the door of Ruby Mae's Richie had felt suspicious eyes upon him, watching his every move. And they weren't just Rex's. Though nobody had challenged or even hardly spoken to him, Richie was keenly aware that everyone in the joint knew he was an outsider.<br />
<br />
With a string of mumbled "excuse me"s Richie pushed his way through the throng of bodies until he finally reached Annie. She slid over to the vacant chair so he could sit without having to climb over her or the table.<br />
<br />
"Sorry it took me so long." Richie handed Annie the full beer bottle and leaned toward her so his mouth was near her ear. "It's gettin' kinda crowded in here." He almost had to shout to be heard over the band, which was now burning through a raucous version of Chuck Berry's "Maybelline."<br />
<br />
Annie nodded before taking a sip of her beer and making her loud reply. "Thanks. And yeah, it's gettin' about that time. The second shift at the paper mill lets off at ten, so a lot of folks come straight in here from work."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded and leaned back against his chair, taking another pull from his bottle. His eyes moved to the stage, automatically finding the gold guitar being adeptly handled by the young black man. Richie watched him quietly, trying to ignore the dull ache in his heart as he felt the phantom of every note in his fingertips. He knew this song; it was one of the first he had ever learned. <br />
<br />
He would miss playing it.<br />
<br />
Annie watched Richie's expression as he regarded the band. She saw a shadow of a wince tighten his smooth cheeks, and his lips pressed together as he swallowed. Yet despite his glum countenance Annie could feel Richie's foot tapping under the table, to the beat of the music. Her gaze dropped to his hand and she saw his long fingers drumming gently against his thigh along with the guitar melody.<br />
<br />
Suddenly she felt guilty, ashamed of dragging Richie into this uncomfortable situation. The sad resignation in his deep brown eyes made her heart ache. Why the hell couldn't she just mind her own business? Why did she have to play Mother fucking Teresa and try to solve everybody else's problems? Hell, she had plenty of her own to deal with. <br />
<br />
With a little snort of frustration Annie shook her head at herself, her golden mane tossing in the shadowy haze. Maybe this had been a mistake, bringing Richie to Ruby Mae's. Maybe her sanctuary was his purgatory.<br />
<br />
"Richie..." Annie placed her hand over his on his thigh and leaned forward to speak just as the song ended. Richie pulled his hand from under hers and raised it to applaud. He clapped loudly and let out a short, shrill whistle as the other patrons showed their appreciation for the band with loud whoops and applause.<br />
<br />
Surprised, Annie stared at Richie, her intended words frozen in her throat. Richie regarded her for a moment, then gave a little shrug and smiled. "They're good. That guy nailed the rhythm <i>and </i>the solo." He dropped his eyes, the little smile remaining on his lips. "I know that song backwards and forwards. It ain't easy."<br />
<br />
"Oh." Annie couldn't think of another response. She stared at Richie for a moment, caught off-guard by his reaction. The enthusiasm behind his response was so shockingly contradictory to his subdued body language--she didn't know quite how to read him.<br />
<br />
"What did you want?"<br />
<br />
"Huh?" Richie's question didn't register as Annie tried to decipher what Richie was feeling. Now that the band was taking a breather she could easily hear his voice over the din of their fellow patrons.<br />
<br />
"You said my name, like you were gonna tell me something. Sorry I cut you off." Richie gazed calmly at Annie. <i>And I wish I'd just sat there and let you hold my hand....</i><br />
<br />
"Oh! Um, yeah. I was just gonna say that... um... if you don't want to stay we don't have to." Annie recovered enough to give Richie an apologetic little smile. "You just looked kinda uncomfortable, like you don't really wanna be here."<br />
<br />
Richie paused for a moment before answering. The truth of the matter was he could feel his blood rushing and his adrenaline kicking in, just like he did every time he heard the twang of a guitar string or the clink of a piano key. Just like every time before, ever since he could remember, the music moved him. He could feel it in his soul. He really <i>did</i> want to be here, especially with Annie. <br />
<br />
It was just bittersweet tonight, knowing that he would no longer be the one to climb up on a stage and make the music that would move others.<br />
<br />
Richie's deep brown eyes met Annie's sparkling baby-blues. He shrugged. "Naw, let's stay. You said you like this place; I like it too. This band is pretty damned good." He smiled gently. "Besides, where the Hell else are we gonna go on a Saturday night out here in the middle of nowhere?"<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled and tipped her beer bottle toward Richie's. "Well, there are a few other options, but none much more appealin'." She grinned when Richie clinked the neck of his bottle against hers.<br />
<br />
"Well then, let's just hang here for awhile. Listen to these cats and have a few more rounds. I could stand to get drunk tonight." Richie snorted to himself at the truth in his words, then his smile softened as he gazed at Annie. "And the 'most appealing option' is definitely right here."<br />
<br />
Annie felt herself blush at his compliment, the darkness hiding her cheeks' rosy flush. "Can't say I disagree," she replied gently. Her gaze held his for a moment, then she turned toward the stage as the drummer counted in the next song. <br />
<br />
Annie smiled as she felt Richie's arm slip along the back of her chair, his hand brushing against her shoulder. She settled back and took a pull at her beer, letting the music wash over her. <br />
<br />
Unconsciously Annie began to bob her head and tap her foot in time to the heavy beat. The melody was slow and sultry, a bluesy bump-and grind that made her long to slide her arms around Richie's neck and roll her hips against his as he held her close.<br />
<br />
As if he was reading her mind, Annie felt Richie shift in his chair, leaning closer to her and letting his arm rest against her shoulders. With a sideways glance she saw that he too was nodding along to the rhythm. Her pulse quickened as she thought again about Richie holding her tight, guiding her in a slow dance.<br />
<br />
She hoped he'd want to dance with her again tonight.<br />
<br />
Through the song and the one that followed Annie and Richie sat quietly side by side, letting themselves get lost in their private thoughts and in the music. When they emptied their beer bottles Richie retrieved another round from the bar, then settled back into his seat beside Annie's. But this time he didn't drape his arm across the back of her chair, instead letting his hand rest on his thigh. <br />
<br />
Out of the corner of her eye Annie watched as Richie's long fingers flexed against his leg with every note that sang from the guitar. Turning her head a bit to get a better view of his face, Annie felt herself smile. <br />
<br />
Richie's eyes were closed, his long lashes forming a pair of dark curved fringes atop his smooth cheekbones. Red and blue light glinted off his hair as his head bobbed slowly to the beat. His full lips tightened and relaxed with his expressions, reflecting the emotion of the bluesy notes and phrases that sang through the air.<br />
<br />
Annie's heart warmed. Richie wasn't just hearing the music, he was <i>feeling </i>it. Like she did. Like she somehow knew he would when she brought him here.<br />
<br />
She watched him quietly for the remainder of the song, until his eyes drifted open. His gaze meeting hers, Richie blinked at Annie for a minute then gave her a sheepish little smile. "Oh. Umm... sorry."<br />
<br />
"For what? You were enjoyin' the music." Annie couldn't help but grin at Richie. <br />
<br />
Richie nodded slowly then took a long pull at his beer, emptying it. He set the bottle on the table and regarded it for a moment before looking back to Annie. "You ready for another one?"<br />
<br />
"Yeah, sure. But let me get this round." Annie started to rise from her seat, reaching for Richie's empty bottle. <br />
<br />
"No!" Richie's hand closed around Annie's, stopping its movement. "Uh... I mean, let me buy. After all you've done for me this weekend the least I can do is buy the beer tonight." <br />
<br />
Richie grinned sheepishly as he realized he was holding Annabelle's hand, then gently lowered it to rest on the table. His fingers trailed over hers as he pulled his hand away to reach for her beer bottle. Grabbing it and his own empty by the neck, he stood. <br />
<br />
"Besides, I gotta go take a... uh... use the Men's Room."<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled at Richie's self-censorship. "Alright. I'll let you be the gentleman and pick up the tab." She gave him a saucy grin. "As for the Men's Room... Well, there ain't one, exactly."<br />
<br />
"What?"<br />
<br />
Annie laughed at Richie's obvious confusion. "There's a bathroom in the back, through there." Annie nodded toward the door in the corner that Richie had noticed earlier. "But usually the guys don't use it. Just the ladies." She wrinkled her nose playfully. "And <i>we</i> only use it if we <i>have</i> to. It's pretty gross." <br />
<br />
Richie grinned at her assessment of the facilities. "So where do the guys go?" He was pretty sure he knew the answer to his question.<br />
<br />
"Outside. Around back there's an old outhouse."<br />
<br />
"You gotta be shittin' me!" Richie didn't even notice his pun as his eyes widened. "An <i>outhouse</i>?"<br />
<br />
Annie tossed her head back as she laughed heartily at Richie's astonishment. "Yes, City Boy, an <i>outhouse.</i> Some folks still have those down here." She giggled for another minute as Richie continued to stare at her. "Not many people use it though. Never know what might be hidin' in there in the dark. All kinds of creepy slithery things in the South, especially at night." Annie grinned broadly as she teased Richie more, enjoying his reaction. "But I guess if you're drunk enough and you gotta go, you don't care."<br />
<br />
"Great." Richie grimaced, clearly discounting the outhouse as an option.<br />
<br />
Annie giggled again as she watched his nose wrinkle with his wince. She continued with another little grin. "But if all you gotta do is take a leak, I think you can find a place around the side of the building."<br />
<br />
Richie felt himself blush at Annie's use of the indelicate phrase he had avoided. "Yeah, thanks. That's probably gonna have to work." With a little shake of his head and another sheepish smile Richie stepped away from the table. "Okay, I'll come back with beers in a few."<br />
<br />
"If you're not back in ten minutes I'll come lookin' for you," Annie teased. She chortled as Richie turned to head for the bar. "Oh! And Richie?"<br />
<br />
He paused and looked back at her. "Yeah?"<br />
<br />
"Don't go <i>way </i>around back... you might stumble upon some... <i>private</i> business."<br />
<br />
"Private business? What...?" Richie's question ended abruptly as he realized what she meant. "Oh. 'Kay. Thanks." He heard Annie's musical giggle as again he turned to head for the front door. <br />
<br />
Richie shook his head as he weaved between the closely-packed tables and chairs. All he wanted to do was sneak outside, drain his snake, grab a few more cold beers,and get back to hide in the corner with Annie. He certainly didn't need to stumble onto some guy getting his dick sucked or God knows what else.<br />
<br />
Dropping the empty bottles on an unoccupied table as he passed, Richie quickly slipped out the front door and around the side of the building. Glancing warily around him, he strode quickly along the wall until he was far enough from the porch not to be seen from the parking lot. He wasn't exactly modest, but he was relieved to find he was alone in the shadows.<br />
<br />
"Jesus," he mumbled as he slid down his zipper and stepped up to the wall. With a groan of relief he emptied his bladder, being careful not to piss on his shoes in the dark. Task complete, Richie quickly turned and started for the entrance. <br />
<br />
He was just about to round the corner of the front porch when a stocky body blocked his path.<br />
<br />
Instinctively Richie's hands curled into fists as he halted. He stood silent and tensed, waiting for the man to move or to speak. He stared back into the ice-blue eyes, his own gaze narrowing as his expression hardened.<br />
<br />
Rex stared back at Richie for a long moment. Finally he spoke, his voice cold but even. "Enjoyin' yourself?"<br />
<br />
The question caught Richie off-guard. He had expected something more, a challenge or a warning from an over-protective ex-boyfriend. He nodded slowly. "Yeah."<br />
<br />
Rex calmly looked Richie up and down, then smirked. "Your fly's open." With a deep chuckle he stepped around Richie and strolled toward the back of the building, his shoulder bumping Richie's as he passed.<br />
<br />
Richie's shoulders slumped as he exhaled. He had no idea what the fuck that little exchange had been about; whether the encounter with Rex was accidental or on-purpose. He was just glad it hadn't escalated. <br />
<br />
His cheeks coloring slightly with embarrassment at being caught with his fly down, Richie yanked up the zipper on his jeans and strode for the entrance.<br />
<br />
When he walked back into the big room Richie noticed it was quieter, filled with the buzz of conversation and raucous laughter. A quick glance at the stage revealed that the band was on break; the instruments sat alone on the raised platform under the red and blue lights. Their players had strayed from the stage for a drink, a smoke, or indulgence in other vices.<br />
<br />
Richie had to wait a little longer to retrieve another pair of beers from the bar, since most of the crowd was taking advantage of the band's break to refill their glasses. When he finally obtained the beverages and made his way back to the table, Richie found Annie wasn't alone. Sitting in Richie's chair, talking and laughing with Annie, was a handsome young black man.<br />
<br />
Richie hesitated for a moment before reaching over to set Annie's beer in front of her. His seat taken, he stood beside the little table.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Hey! Thanks, Richie." Annie took a sip of her beer then smiled up at him. "I want you to met a friend of mine. Richie, this is Sammy. Sammy, Richie." Annie gestured between the two men as she said their names by way of introduction.<br />
<br />
"Hey. Nice to meetcha." Sammy grinned and stuck out his hand over the table. "I've heard a lot about you."<br />
<br />
"Hey, Man. Seems like<i> everybody's</i> heard a lot about me." Richie accepted Sammy's proffered hand, leaning forward for the handshake. As he looked Sammy in the face he recognized the young man as the guitar player from the house band. "Oh--Hey!"<br />
<br />
Annie smiled at Richie's obvious surprise. "Richie, Sammy is Otis' nephew. He and I have known each other since we were knee-high to a grasshopper. We went to school together."<br />
<br />
"Nice to meet ya, Man," Richie nodded, giving Sammy's hand another shake before releasing it. "You sound good." Richie tipped his head toward the stage, indicating Sammy's earlier guitar performance.<br />
<br />
"Thanks." Sammy grinned and looked at Annie. "Annabelle here tells me you're a player. Where?"<br />
<br />
Richie shrugged and took a drink from his bottle. "I used to play, in Jersey." He avoided Annie's eyes as the half-lie slipped from his lips.<br />
<br />
Annie noticed. "And..." She reached out to give Richie's hand a little squeeze. "Richie was over in Memphis doing some sessions in the record studio. And playing in some nightclubs. Right, Richie?"<br />
<br />
Richie nodded looked at the floor, gently tugging his hand from Annie's. "Yeah. But that was just for a few weeks." He silently cursed. He knew Annie meant well, but he really didn't want to have to tell some stranger about how his career as a guitarist was over before it had taken off.<br />
<br />
"That's cool, Man," Sammy replied. "What do you play?"<br />
<br />
Richie shrugged. "Used to have a Gibson, kinda like yours. Sold it before I came down here though. I played an Ibanez for awhile too. Now I just have a '76 Martin Dreadnought." His voice was flat, his heart squeezing as he remembered pawning his prized electric guitar for gas and food money. His eyes flicked to Annie and he saw her gazing up at him, her blue eyes sparkling. He quickly looked away.<br />
<br />
"Nice." Sammy nodded. "You with a band?"<br />
<br />
"Nah. Used to be, but not anymore. I'm done with that now." Avoiding Annie's eyes, Richie looked around. He spied an unoccupied chair sitting near the stage and stepped over to grab it, hauling it back to the table. Wedging it into the small space between the table and the wall, Richie lowered himself onto the seat.<br />
<br />
"Richie was telling me last night that he used to play gigs down on the beach in New Jersey. Lots of 'em." Annie turned her smile to Richie. She sounded almost proud. "He writes his own songs, too. And sings."<br />
<br />
Richie groaned inwardly as he shoved his knees under the table in the tight spot. He knew Annie was trying to be friendly and that she was excited about him being a musician. But he really didn't want to get into the whole long, sad story with this guy he had just met, friend of Annie's or not. <br />
<br />
As he tried to get comfortable Richie felt his leg rub against Annie's under the little table. Then he felt her hand on his knee, patting gently. Another stab of guilt knifed through his gut as Richie realized Annie could read his discomfort. <br />
<br />
Unable to stop himself, he turned his head to look at her. He saw in Annie's kind blue eyes that she could see right through him. And in her own way she was trying to help.<br />
<br />
As he gazed at Annie Richie heard Sammy's voice. "Really, Man? That's pretty cool." Richie swallowed hard, then mustered a smile as he turned to look at Sammy.<br />
<br />
"Umm... thanks. It's been awhile since I've written anything, though. Or played, for that matter." Richie's pulse kicked up as he felt Annie give his knee a gentle, comforting squeeze. <br />
<br />
Richie turned back to Sammy, his gut clenching as he read the young man's expression. He knew what was coming before the words were out of Sammy's mouth. <br />
<br />
"Hey Man, why don't you come up and jam with us tonight?"<br />
<br />
Despite himself Richie felt his heart race and his fingertips tingle. It was as if his body physically craved the feel of the leather strap wrapping his shoulder, of the polished wood vibrating against his pelvis, of the strings buzzing under his fingertips. He shot an involuntary glance toward the stage where Sammy's gold Gibson leaned against an amp.<br />
<br />
He swallowed hard, then Richie felt Annie's hand slip into his. Silently he turned to see her pretty blue eyes sparkling with excitement.<br />
<br />
"Richie, will you? Play with the band? Please?" Annie's voice was soft and hopeful. "For me?"Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-27399812704435073422011-02-11T21:00:00.533-05:002011-05-08T15:43:11.360-04:00Chapter 11<div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie squinted as he peered through the pickup’s grimy windshield. They were on another back road, slowly rolling along the gravel path through the pine forest.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie glanced sideways at Richie, chuckling at his pensive expression. “Gettin’ worried?” she teased.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">“A little. After that hooch you fed me back at the house, I’m starting to think you’re not as sweet and innocent as you seem.” Richie gave Annie a little grin.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie smirked as she kept her eyes on the road. “I never claimed to be sweet and innocent.”</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie didn’t answer but his grin widened as he looked out his window.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">A few bumpy minutes later moonlight flooded Richie’s view as the truck emerged from the trees. Ahead of them stretched miles of marsh, the tall grasses rippling in the moonlight. Annie guided the truck to the right, following the dirt path as it turned South.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">About a half-mile in the distance Richie spied a building, a soft bluish light glowing from its exterior. He assumed that was their destination since there was clearly no other sign of human life. As they drew nearer Richie could see the building was actually an old barn, sided in weathered wood and roofed in tarnished corrugated metal. <br />
<br />
A wooden porch had been affixed to the front of the structure, spanning its length. The addition made the building look like some sort of half-house, half-shed. The shack was surrounded by an assortment of old cars and beat-up trucks, crowded into a gravel lot.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">"What is this place?" Richie watched a pair of men approach the building and mount the porch steps. A rectangle of reddish-blue light glowed briefly in the open doorway as they entered the building. Through his half-open window Richie heard a cacophony of guitars, drums, and bass.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">"This..." Annie pulled the truck on to a patch of sparse grass at the parking lot's edge. "... is Ruby Mae's." She threw the transmission in park and killed the engine before she turned to face Richie with a smile. "Worst-kept secret in McIntosh County. Also the best Juke Joint you're gonna find anywhere 'round here."</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie's gut tightened at Annie's words. He had spent the past few months hanging around music halls and bars, begging for the chance to play. Now that he had finally conceded defeat and walked away from his dream the last place he felt like going was a live music joint. </div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie watched as Richie took a deep breath and swiveled his gaze back to the building in front of them. She could almost feel the return of his sadness as his shoulders slumped. <br />
<br />
Annie cursed silently. She had hoped Richie would enjoy this place, that maybe he would relax and open up to her. This was her refuge, where she sought solace when the hard reality of life closed in on her. Listening to the Blues always soothed her soul.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">"Richie?" Annie's voice was soft, almost apologetic. "We don't have to stay if you don't wanna. We can do somethin' else. I just thought maybe we'd grab a drink..."</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Her gentle tone filled Richie's heart with guilt. <i> You stupid Fuck. Where the hell else did you think you'd be going tonight, out here in the middle of nowhere? Of course she was gonna take you to a bar.</i><br />
<br />
Richie shook his head vigorously, cursing his inability to hide his reaction. "No! Annie, I want to.... I mean, if this is where you want to go, I'm game." He gave her a half-hearted smile.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie arched a brow. "You sure?" She saw the glint of sadness that flashed through Richie's chocolate eyes.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">"Yeah. I'm sure." Richie nodded again, smiling more brightly. "Umm... so this is where you get into all that mischief?" He attempted to lighten the moment by recalling the phrase he and Annie had bantered about earlier.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie giggled softly. "Somethin' like that." She reached over to squeeze Richie's hand. "I like to come here, to escape. It's the kinda place where you can be with a bunch of people or by yourself, all in the same room. Whatever you need." She left her hand resting on Richie's as she gazed at him, her blue eyes shining hopefully.</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Richie looked down at his lap, his heart again warming at her touch. He turned his hand under Annie's until their palms brushed together. "Sounds great," he replied, trying to muster his enthusiasm. "Besides, I could use a beer." He chuckled throatily. "They got that here, don't they? Or is everything here.. uh... home-brewed?"</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">Annie's musical laughter made Richie's smile turn genuine. "No more moonshine for you, huh?"</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing">"Nuh-Uh. Sticking to the stuff with labels." Richie looked up, his gaze meeting hers. "C'mon. I'll buy ya a beer."<br />
<br />
Annie squeezed Richie's hand again before pulling hers away and turning to open her door. They climbed out of the pickup then together crossed the lot, weaving single-file in between closely-parked vehicles on their way to the front porch steps.<br />
<br />
A blast of raucous music greeted them when they pulled open the sagging front door. Richie followed Annie inside, blinking as his eyes tried to adjust to the smoky, bluish haze. He stepped aside so he wasn't blocking the entry and looked around.<br />
<br />
It was a large, open room, but not not nearly as big as the building looked from the outside. As his gaze swept to his left Richie realized a long wall cleaved the old barn, separating this space from another. His eyes traveled down the wall to a dark doorway in the back corner. A slice of red light glowed at the floor, clueing him in to the probably-illicit activity taking place behind the wall. <br />
<br />
Richie had spent enough time in the South to know that most clubs had not-so-secret gambling halls in the back room. He was willing to bet if he wandered through that door he would find at least a couple dozen men shooting dice or playing cards. He had also spent enough time in similar establishments in North Jersey to know better than to enter such a room uninvited.<br />
<br />
His curiosity satisfied enough, Richie let his eyes slide back along the wall to the makeshift bar near the door. It was crudely fashioned of two-by-fours and corrugated metal, topped with a peeling laminate countertop. Two battered Frigidaires stood against the wall behind the bar next to a long counter covered with an assortment of cans, bottles, and glasses. Richie snorted when he spied a couple ominous-looking glass jugs. He wondered if they contained a brew similar to what Annie had poured from her Mason jar.<br />
<br />
On the wall behind the bar was a long, cracked mirror adorned with taped-up photographs and magazine pages. There was no evidence of a liquor license.<br />
<br />
A beefy black man wearing a white apron around his waist leaned on one hand against the bar, conversing loudly with a grizzled older patron. On wooden stools perched tired-looking men, hunched over their glasses on the bartop or grinning slyly at a couple voluptuous ebony-skinned women who hovered close by. <br />
<br />
The back half of the room was crowded with mismatched tables and chairs, most of them occupied or temporarily vacated. Between the tables and a raised platform opposite the front door an informal dance floor was packed with sweaty, dark-skinned bodies gyrating to the sultry, funky beat provided by the house band. <br />
<br />
As his eyes swept over the tables and dancers Richie realized he and Annie were definitely in the minority in this room. Only a few other white patrons mingled here and there.<br />
<br />
Richie felt another little stab of pain as his gaze settled on the quintet on the stage. The musicians were all older Negro men, with one exception. A young black man sat perched on a stool, his fingers dancing effortlessly over the strings of a dark blonde Gibson electric guitar, his head back and his eyes closed as he grooved with the beat. Beside him a gray-haired man picked at a big battered bass violin. The band was rounded out by a portly but energetic piano player, a paunchy, heavy-jowled trumpeter, and a thin, anemic-looking man smoking a cigarette while he pounded out the beat on his drum kit.<br />
<br />
Annie watched Richie as he stared at the guitarist on the stage, his smile melting away. Her heart swelled with sympathy. That instrument was obviously the source of his melancholy. Annabelle was certain Richie's sad story was locked up in that battered case he had been toting down the road when their paths crossed yesterday.<br />
<br />
"Hey, you owe me a beer, remember?" Annie gently squeezed Richie's elbow and tipped her head toward the bar when he turned to look at her. "I'll see if I can find us a table."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded, forcing himself to smile back at her. "Okay." He was just ready to turn for the bar when a loud, deep drawl caught his attention.<br />
<br />
"Hey there, Annie. Didn't think I'd see you here tonight." A burly young blonde man with a sparse moustache and long sideburns pushed past Richie to stand beside Annabelle. He slid an arm around her shoulders and gave Richie a long once-over. His steely blue eyes narrowed slightly with his suspicious appraisal. "This your friend from up North?"<br />
<br />
Richie immediately tensed at the man's challenging tone. He stared back at Annie's friend, feeling a pang of jealousy at the sight of his arm around her.<br />
<br />
"Oh, so you heard, too." Annie's voice was calm, but some of its gentle lilt had disappeared. "Rex, this is Richie." Annie took a little step forward, shrugging his arm off her shoulders.<br />
<br />
"Yeah, I heard. Everybody in town heard about the new guy at Eddie's Texaco." Rex replied to Annie's comment before extending a beefy hand. "Rex Farrell."<br />
<br />
"Richie Sambora." Richie accepted the gesture, his pulse jumping just a little when Rex's hand squeezed tightly around his for a perfunctory shake. It was clear from both his expression and his handshake that Rex was not thrilled by their meeting.<br />
<br />
"So, you're from New York. What you doin' all the way down here in Darien?" Rex stepped closer to Annie and again rested his arm around her shoulders, silently relaying his claim on her.<br />
<br />
"New Jersey. And just passin' through." Richie's voice was flat as he stared back at Rex. He watched Annie calmly remove Rex's arm from her shoulders again. The man was barrel-chested and thick-necked, and probably outweighed Richie by a good fifty pounds. But Richie would be damned if he was going to back down, especially since Annie clearly was not receptive to Rex's familiarity.<br />
<br />
"Eddie's fixin' Richie's car. It won't be done 'til Monday, so I'm showin' him what there is to do in Darien on a Saturday night." Annie calmly explained the situation to Rex, then stepped over beside Richie so she stood facing the big man. Her arm brushed against Richie's as she smiled placatingly. "Thought he might like to take in a little of the local culture while he's down here."<br />
<br />
"Mmm." Rex nodded slowly, his eyes lingering on Richie for another long moment before they turned to Annie. The big man gave her a tight-lipped grin. "You know this crowd ain't too partial to strangers. Don't trust 'em."<br />
<br />
Annie let out an exasperated little snort. "Rex, you know as well as I do that anybody who's here with me is gonna be just fine."<br />
<br />
"Yeah, well.... I'll be watchin' out, just in case." Rex's steely eyes found Richie's again, ensuring he got the message.<br />
<br />
Annie sighed, but her voice remained even and calm. "Rex, I been comin' here for years. Everybody knows me. Ain't nobody gonna mess with me tonight or any night." She dropped her chin and gave the big man a pointed look. "And ain't nobody gonna mess with my friend." <br />
<br />
Just as she spoke the band ended their song and the crowd broke into applause and whooping cheers. Annie paused, waiting for the noise to die down, then smiled. "But thanks for lookin' out for me. It's mighty gentlemanly of you."<br />
<br />
Richie caught the hint of sarcasm in Annie's tone, and he couldn't stop a slight smirk from curling the corner of his mouth. It was obvious Annie wasn't going to take any shit from this guy, but she wasn't going to make a scene either. And Richie would be damned if he was going to let this guy bully her. Rex could probably take him out if it came to that, but Richie was gonna make him hurt first.<br />
<br />
Annie snickered quietly as she watched Rex and Richie attempt stare each other down. Then she rolled her eyes and reached for Richie's hand as the opening notes of a new song filled the air. "Have a good night, Rex. C'mon, Richie. Dance with me."<br />
<br />
"Evenin'," Rex nodded curtly at Richie as Annie tugged at his hand.<br />
<br />
"Evenin'." Richie replied tersely, then turned to follow Annie as she pushed her way between the closely-packed tables toward the dance floor. He realized as they moved that he recognized the song the band was playing. It was an oldie but a favorite of his, Otis Redding's "Dock of the Bay." When they reached a small clear space Annie turned toward Richie and smiled.<br />
<br />
"Sorry 'bout that. Rex really is a good guy. He's just a little protective of me." She started to raise her arms to Richie's neck but stopped in surprise when he captured her right hand with his left and placed his other hand on her hip. <br />
<br />
"Uh... Oh!" Annie was taken aback as Richie stood gazing down at her, waiting for her to follow his lead. It had been a long time since a man had danced properly with her. In fact, it hadn't even been a <i>man,</i> it had been a boy in her high school etiquette class. And then only because they were required to learn ballroom dancing for the Spring Cotillion.<br />
<br />
Richie frowned as he began to move, smoothly guiding Annie into a slow, rhythmic sway. "Why's that? He sure didn't seem too happy to see you with a guy." <br />
<br />
Annie rested her left hand on Richie's shoulder as she let him guide her in their dance. She chuckled softly at his obvious jealousy, enjoying the little surge of excitement that jolted through her at the realization. "Well, he's always been that way, especially since we used to date."<br />
<br />
Richie's pupils dilated slightly at news, delivered matter-of-factly in Annie's gentle drawl. "<i>Used</i> to date? Like back in High School?"<br />
<br />
"And a little bit after that." Annie's eyes sparkled as she gave Richie a sweet smile. "But now we're just friends. We haven't been together in a couple years."<br />
<br />
"Does he know that?" Richie's gaze flickered across the room to the spot by the front door, where Rex still stood.<br />
<br />
Annie laughed softly. "Yes. He does. We've both dated other people. He just takes his job seriously, is all. Very seriously."<br />
<br />
Richie snorted derisively. "His job? He's some kind of Bouncer at a backwoods Juke Joint." He winced slightly as the words rolled off his tongue, realizing how demeaning they sounded. He hoped Annie wouldn't take offense.<br />
<br />
Annie gazed at Richie for a second, her eyes tracing over his stormy features as another surge of heat coursed through her. She could hardly believe her eyes and ears. Richie had been so quiet and polite and shy in the short time she had known him. Now all of a sudden here he was, a man full of testosterone and adrenaline, ready to defend her against an unwanted suitor.<br />
<br />
"Rex isn't a Bouncer, Richie. He's a Deputy Sheriff. He hangs out here off-duty to keep an eye on things, be sure they don't get out of hand." Annie almost giggled when she saw Richie's eyes widen momentarily, then narrow.<br />
<br />
"So that makes him some kinda Hot Shit? Makes him think he owns you?"<br />
<br />
This time Annie couldn't help herself. She chortled huskily, her blue eyes sparkling as she grinned at Richie. "Don't worry, Richie. He doesn't own me, and he damned well knows it. He just wants to be sure you don't take advantage of me, that's all."<br />
<br />
With her words Annabelle slipped her hand from Richie's and stepped in close. "And trust me, if I <i>want </i>to be taken advantage of, there's not a damned thing he can do about it." She pressed her body against his, exhaling softly with the contact. Circling her arms around Richie's neck, she continued to sway in time with the music, to his lead.<br />
<br />
Richie inhaled sharply at her words and at the feel of Annie's soft curves pressed against him. His dick jumped against his zipper and his mind went momentarily blank. Automatically his arms slid around Annie's waist, his hands resting together at the small of her back.<br />
<br />
Annie purred softly and turned her cheek to rest against Richie's chest, letting her eyes drift shut as she savored the feel of his arms around her. She had been yearning to do this ever since she had gazed down at his sleeping form on her couch this morning. The sensation of his embrace had been the subject of her daydreams all afternoon.<br />
<br />
It felt even better than she had imagined.<br />
<br />
Richie's entire body tingled as he held Annie, guiding her in a slow revolution on the dance floor. He stared ahead unseeing for the first minute, just breathing in the heavenly scent of her hair and reveling in the warmth of her flesh. It was like they were in their own world, the only two people in this room swaying to the music's gentle beat.<br />
<br />
Slowly Richie's senses returned: first hearing, then smell, then touch, then sight. As he turned slowly toward the back of the room with Annie in his arms Richie's gaze traveled to the front door. His chocolate eyes narrowed as they met Rex's moody stare. <br />
<br />
Then a triumphant smirk curved his lips as he tightened his arms around Annie and continued to dance.<br />
<br />
</div>Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-55988664076598187532011-02-04T21:00:00.047-05:002011-05-08T15:42:26.129-04:00Chapter 10Richie stared at his reflection in the mirror as he dipped the head of his razor into the sink. He absently swished the utensil around in the tepid, cloudy pool of water, shaking loose the lump of foam and bits of stubble from the blade. <br />
<br />
Tipping his chin upward and turning his head from side to side, Richie quickly inspected his shave, ensuring he had scraped away all of the soft two-day's growth. Satisfied, he reached for the small pink hand towel on the bar.<br />
<br />
He quickly mopped his face with the towel, wiping away remaining streaks of shaving cream and droplets of water. He again regarded his reflection, inspecting his work. He looked good. And he felt about a thousand percent better now that he was freshly showered and shaved. By the time Annie had finally dragged him back home he had been thoroughly caked with grease and sweat and grime, the residue of his day's labor.<br />
<br />
Annie hadn't seemed to mind his grungy state, but she had pointed him directly to the bathroom when they arrived at her house. Richie had gladly obeyed her order to shower and get changed while she fixed them something to eat.<br />
<br />
Just knowing Annie was in the next room as he stood under the shower's spray had proved a challenge for Richie. To be naked in her pretty little pink bathroom, surrounded by her scent and her most personal items, had made him both extremely aroused and a little embarrassed. He had no choice but to grit his teeth and turn the tap all the way to cold, praying the chilly water would quash his surging libido.<br />
<br />
He had been half-hard all the way home, recalling the feel of Annie's soft hand wrapped around his as she had led him across the street from the garage to her truck. He hadn't let go of her hand until they reached the vehicle and he remembered his manners, opening the driver's side door for her. The little wink Annie gave him as she climbed into the seat made Richie's heart race and his groin tighten. All the way home he had left his hand resting beside his thigh on the truck's bench seat, hoping she would reach over and again press her palm against his.<br />
<br />
But she hadn't. And now just the memory of her touch was revving him up again.<br />
<br />
With a little groan Richie stepped over to the toilet and flipped up the lid. He pointed his dick toward the bowl and relieved himself again, the third time since he stepped into the bathroom. His nerves were definitely making themselves felt in his bladder.<br />
<br />
When he finished he reached down to flush and tugged up the zipper on his jeans. Turning back to the sink, he reached into the bowl and pulled the plug, then rinsed his razor in a stream of clean water from the tap before tossing it into his shaving bag. Extracting a small bottle of after-shave from the kit, he splashed some onto his palms, rubbed his hands together, and swiped them across his cheeks and down the sides of his neck. <br />
<br />
Immediately the pungent spice of the cologne filled the small, humid room, almost making him gag. Richie swore softly and quickly turned on the tap, splashing cold water onto his face to rinse away some of the cologne and praying he hadn't overdone it. He just wanted to smell nice, not make Annie think he was some kind of gigolo.<br />
<br />
Capping the bottle and shoving it back in his kit, Richie reached for the clean shirt hanging from the hook on the door. He tugged the white tank top over his head and pulled it down over his chest and stomach. A quick swipe of his hand behind his neck freed his long damp locks from the fabric straps across his shoulders and sent them tumbling down his back. <br />
<br />
Glancing again in the mirror, Richie reached up to straighten the small silver cross than hung from a thin chain around his neck. The little charm gleamed in the powder room's soft light.<br />
<br />
"Okay." Richie took a deep breath and spoke to his reflection. "Just stay cool, Man. Relax and have a good time." The corners of his mouth twisted into a wry grin as he added silently, <i>Wherever the fuck it is she's taking me tonight.</i><br />
<br />
He grabbed his shaving kit and reached for the knob.<br />
<br />
*****<br />
<br />
Annie looked up at the sound of the door opening. She couldn't stop a smile from lighting her face as Richie emerged from the bathroom and moved over to his rucksack. She watched him through the kitchen doorway as he dropped his shaving bag on the floor and stuffed his dirty clothes into the bag, rooting around in its contents for a minute. He looked much more comfortable and relaxed than he had before his shower. <br />
<br />
And that snug tank top.... Annie purred softly to herself as her gaze slid over Richie's smooth shoulders and lingered on his biceps, watching them bunch as he tugged at the zipper of the canvas sack. Her stomach fluttered as the delicious scent of his aftershave floated into the room and filled her senses.<br />
<br />
"Feel better?" Annie smiled brightly at Richie when he straightened and met her gaze. He returned her expression, his brown eyes sparkling as he grinned. <br />
<br />
"Yeah. Lots. Thanks for letting me shower first. I tried not to use all the hot water." Richie's cheeks colored lightly at his last statement. He certainly hadn't avoided the hot water tap for selfless reasons.<br />
<br />
"No problem. No offense, but you needed a shower worse than I do." Annie giggled. "You had grease everywhere. I just <i>smell</i> like grease."<br />
<br />
Richie chuckled and walked toward her, a few long strides carrying him into the kitchen. He leaned against the counter next to where she stood. "Yeah, but you smell a lot better than I did. Besides, I like the smell of onion rings."<br />
<br />
"I know." Annie giggled again and set the knife she was using on the countertop. "Hope you don't mind BLTs for supper. I don't have much in the pantry."<br />
<br />
"Sounds great." Richie looked at the plates resting on the counter in front of Annie. Each held a diagonally-cut sandwich piled with crisp green lettuce, thick slices of tomato, and wide slices of bacon. His mouth watered.<br />
<br />
Annie smiled at his expression. "The lettuce and tomatoes are from my garden. But the pig ain't mine. It's from the Winn-Dixie." She chuckled when Richie snorted at her tease. "You want chips?"<br />
<br />
"Sure." Richie nodded as Annie turned toward the gingham-curtained pantry. "Um... anything I can do to help?"<br />
<br />
"You can get us something to drink. There's lemonade and sweet tea in the refrigerator. Or beer, if you want one. Glasses are in the cupboard above the sink."<br />
<br />
Richie pushed away from the counter and quickly located the glassware. He pulled two mismatched tumblers from the cupboard and set them on the counter, then stepped over to the refrigerator. "What do you want to drink?"<br />
<br />
"Lemonade's fine." Annie turned around and stepped back toward the counter just as Richie moved in the same direction. She squeaked softly as they bumped into each other, the lemonade in the pitcher Richie held sloshing over the rim onto Annie's blouse.<br />
<br />
"Oh, shit! Uh... I mean... God, I'm sorry!" Without thinking Richie reached out with his free hand and wiped at the damp spot on Annie's shirt. He froze as he felt Annie draw in a surprised breath, her firm breast pushing against his fingers with the expansion of her chest.<br />
<br />
"Uh... Oh God..." Richie felt a bolt of electricity shoot through him as he realized where his touch lingered. He quickly withdrew his hand from Annie's chest and wrapped it around the lemonade pitcher, clutching the glass container tightly as his cheeks flushed crimson. "I... uh...."<br />
<br />
Annie couldn't help but giggle at Richie's adorable expression. She felt her own cheeks color slightly, aware that her body had betrayed her excitement at Richie's touch. "Uh... it's okay. Look... no harm done. It's just lemonade. I'm gonna take a shower anyway." She knew full well Richie was apologizing for almost-groping her, but she didn't want to embarrass him further.<br />
<br />
"Uh... yeah. I should be more careful." Richie took a deep breath, then grinned sheepishly. "After you." He waited while Annie moved over to the counter, tugging open a bag of potato chips as she moved. He stood rooted to his spot while she dumped a helping of chips onto each plate, then picked them up and turned to face him.<br />
<br />
"You gonna stand there all day?" she teased gently. <br />
<br />
"Just until you sit down. Don't want any more accidents." Richie didn't move. <br />
<br />
Annie giggled in response and stepped past Richie, over to the small kitchen table. She set the two plates on the tabletop before gracefully lowering herself into a chair. "Okay. You're safe now."<br />
<br />
Richie's grin widened as he moved over to the counter and poured two glasses of lemonade, then carried them over to the table. He sat opposite Annie and waited politely for her to begin eating.<br />
<br />
They ate slowly, chatting about the day's events. Richie felt himself relax as they talked, and he found himself smiling and laughing with Annie as she told him about the conversation and speculation she had overheard about the town's "Mystery Man." By the time they were finished he was at ease, the awkward lemonade incident forgotten.<br />
<br />
" 'Kay, I'm gonna go take a quick shower and get dressed." Annie pushed her chair back and stood, reaching for the now-empty plates.<br />
<br />
"I'll clean up. You go ahead." Richie jumped to his feet and also reached for the dishes. He smiled when his hands bumped against Annie's, sending a little warm tingle up his arms. "One thing I definitely know how to do is dishes. Used to dry them for my Ma all the time."<br />
<br />
Annie laughed. "Well, since you're so eager, have at 'em." She stepped back and watched Richie stack the empty plates and glasses, then carry them to the sink. "When you're done feel free to watch some TV or turn on some music or somethin.' I'll try not to keep you waiting too long."<br />
<br />
"Don't worry about it. I got this covered. Besides -- if you're a typical girl it's gonna take you awhile to get all dolled up to go out, right?" Richie gave Annie a cheeky grin. <br />
<br />
Annie melted at the easiness of Richie's tease and at the sparkle in his deep chocolate eyes. It was such a welcome sight, so different from the look of wistful sadness she had seen so much of. "Hmm.. and you're one to talk about takin' awhile to get all dolled up, Mister Jersey Hippie Boy? Hell, you were in that bathroom for a good half an hour."<br />
<br />
"Hey, I was all gross and dirty. And I had to shave." Richie made his playful protest as he turned on the faucet and reached for the dish soap.<br />
<br />
"And you have more hair than I do," Annie pointed out. "Well Sweet Jesus, I better get a move on, if it's gonna take me so long to get myself all pretty."<br />
<br />
Her heart fluttered when Richie turned and gave her a long look. When he spoke his voice was soft and gentle, almost reverent. "You don't need any time at all, Annie. You're already pretty."<br />
<br />
For once Annie was the one who didn't know what to say. Her smile softened and she gazed back at Richie for a long moment, a rosy blush tinging her cheeks. Then she chuckled softly and moved toward the door.<br />
<br />
*****<br />
<br />
Richie knew Annie was near, even before he heard the creak of the screen door opening. He could sense her, could smell her. He didn't think he'd ever get her sweet scent out of his head, not even long after he left this place. He would always remember her scent and her smile.<br />
<br />
"So, you bored yet?"<br />
<br />
Richie grinned up at Annie as she stopped beside him on the top step of the porch. "No. Just sitting out here watching the sunset. Thinking." He scooted over so Annie had room to sit beside him.<br />
<br />
"What about?" Annie leaned down to set the items in her hands on the porch floor. Following her movement with his gaze, Richie realized she had carried something with her when she came out to join him.<br />
<br />
Annie lowered herself onto the step beside Richie, her tanned legs bending and bumping lightly against Richie's denim-covered knee. His eyes slid up her leg to the frayed hem of her cutoffs. He swallowed hard as an urge to tug at the strings dangling against her thigh swept over him.<br />
<br />
"What do you got there?" Richie ignored Annie's question, instead asking one of his own. He didn't want to tell her he had been trying to figure out a solution to his money problem, wondering how he would be able to pay Eddie for his car repair. Tonight Richie just wanted enjoy himself with Annie, to talk and laugh and forget about his troubles and woes. They would all still be there in the morning.<br />
<br />
"This?" Annie's blonde locks rippled in the light breeze as she swiveled her head toward the items she had brought onto the porch. When she turned back to face Richie she was grinning. "Here." She handed him a small juice glass. <br />
<br />
Richie took the empty glass, a confused little smile turning his lips. "What's this for?"<br />
<br />
Annie chuckled, again turning away and reaching for something. "That..." She shifted so she more fully faced Richie, turning onto her hip on the porch step. "Is for this."<br />
<br />
Richie eyed the big Mason jar in Annie's hands. It was half-full of some kind of liquid and capped with a gold metal ring and lid. Even in the dusky light Richie could see the brownish tint to the jar's contents. "And that is....?"<br />
<br />
Annie didn't reply, instead chuckling again and lowering the jar to her lap. She grunted softly as she loosened the metal ring at the jar's top. Richie felt a tingle run up his spine at the soft, grating scrape of metal on glass. He watched as Annie removed the ring and set it on the porch beside her, then pried off the flat metal disc that covered the jar's mouth. Almost immediately Richie was hit with the strong odor of fermented grain.<br />
<br />
"<i>What</i> the....?" Richie's face screwed up into a little surprised grimace. He watched skeptically as Annie tipped the Mason jar against the glass in his hand, filling it three-quarters full with the suspicious liquid. "Is this... is it what I think it is?"<br />
<br />
Annie grinned and reached for the other empty glass she had brought. After pouring a healthy shot of the liquid into her juice glass she set the jar on the step beside her. "Don't know. What do you think it is?" She raised her glass in a toast. "Cheers."<br />
<br />
"Umm... Cheers?" Richie was so startled he didn't know what to do. So he just followed Annie's lead. He raised his glass and touched it to Annie's. He gaped as she gave him a grin and a wink, then raised the glass to her lips. With a quick backward toss of her head she dumped the contents of the glass into her mouth and down her throat.<br />
<br />
Swallowing the beverage in one quick gulp, Annie blinked away the moisture from her watering eyes and coughed raspily. She grinned at Richie and nodded toward the glass he still held raised in mid-air. "Go on. Your turn."<br />
<br />
Richie gave the beverage in his hand another suspicious look, then raised the glass to his mouth. Taking a deep breath, he tossed back the shot. Almost immediately he gagged as the amber liquid blazed a trail of fire down his throat and into his belly. He coughed and sputtered as his eyes welled with tears. <br />
<br />
"Holy.... Holy... <i>FUCK</i>!" Richie gasped as he struggled to draw in a wheezing breath. He was vaguely aware of Annie's musical laughter as he clutched at his throat and wiped at his eyes, trying desperately to regain his senses. He felt Annie take the glass from his hand, then heard a crisp <i>POP </i>followed by a bubbling hiss. <br />
<br />
"Here, take a swig of this." Annie pressed the cold beer can into Richie's hand, chuckling quietly as she watched his reaction. She almost felt guilty for sneak-attacking Richie with the powerful drink, but she thought it might give him a little taste of a typical backwoods Georgia Saturday Night. <br />
<br />
Richie immediately pulled the can to his lips and gulped greedily at the cold malt beverage. "Take it easy...." Annie cautioned with a little laugh. "Not too much. Just enough to cool the fire."<br />
<br />
Richie reluctantly handed the half-empty beer can back to Annie, then swiped his forearm across his eyes. He coughed and cleared his throat a couple more times in quick succession, then turned his watery gaze to Annie. "What the fuck did you just feed me?"<br />
<br />
Annie gave him a mischievous grin. "I think you know."<br />
<br />
"Was that... <i>moonshine</i>?"<br />
<br />
The disbelief in Richie's voice made Annie laugh out loud. She nodded as she giggled, her thick honeyed tresses swishing around her face. She raised a hand to brush them away from her cheek and tuck them behind her ear, then smiled at Richie. "Sure is." She reached for the jar. "Want some more?"<br />
<br />
"NO! I mean... uh... No thanks." Richie cleared his throat again. He didn't want Annie to think he was some kind of wimp who couldn't hold his booze, but<i> DAMN....</i><br />
<br />
Annie chortled softly. "Sorry 'bout that. I didn't mean to freak you out or nothin'. I just wanted you to have an authentic Southern homegrown cocktail before we head out. Thought it might help set the mood."<br />
<br />
Richie couldn't help but smile at that. "If that's setting the mood, then what the Hell am I in for? That was like swallowing fire."<br />
<br />
Annie smirked. "Well, things may get a little hot tonight. Never quite know what to expect." She held Richie's gaze for a moment, then turned away to put the lid back on the Moonshine Mason Jar. When she turned back to him, the twinkle in her blue eyes held a little challenge. "You ain't scared of me now, are ya?"<br />
<br />
Richie's cock jumped against his zipper at the sultry note in her voice. His eyes locked on Annie's full lower lip, slicked with pink gloss and shining in the soft late-evening light. <br />
<br />
"No." Richie's own voice was husky. His eyes raised to meet hers. "I'm not scared. I'm.... excited." He blushed slightly at the admission, hoping she wouldn't notice in the dusky twilight.<br />
<br />
"Well, then." Annie reached over to Richie's thigh, where his hand rested against the faded denim. She gave his hand a gentle squeeze, smiling at its warmth under her touch. "We better get goin'. The night is upon us, and full of possibility." <br />
<br />
Her smile made Richie's heart leap with anticipation. Silently he turned his hand over and wrapped his fingers around hers. <br />
<br />
"I'm ready."Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7863113525297486267.post-78425632866967010772011-01-28T21:00:00.003-05:002011-05-08T15:41:58.097-04:00Chapter 9"All done, Boss."<br />
<br />
Eddie peered up over the top of his bifocals to see Richie standing in the office door, wiping his hands on a dingy shop rag. His young assistant had grease smeared down the side of one cheek and his shaggy hair was a nest of sweaty disarray. Eddie chuckled at the sight. The Boy may look like some kind of lazy California hippie, but he sure as heck was a hard worker.<br />
<br />
"That didn't take long." Eddie pulled the glasses from his nose and tossed them on top of the auto parts catalog spread open on his desk. "You do know your way around an engine pretty good, don't ya?"<br />
<br />
Richie just shrugged and grinned, then swiped a hand through his damp bangs. The movement left his mop of hair even more disheveled.<br />
<br />
Eddie tipped his head toward the chair against the office wall. "Grab a seat. You been on your feet all day."<br />
<br />
Silently Richie did as he was told, taking three steps across the small room to lower himself on the chair. He groaned quietly as he stretched out his long legs, the worn soles of his boots bumping against the desk in the cramped space.<br />
<br />
Eddie's chair squeaked as he swiveled it to face Richie, then leaned back to prop his feet up on the open bottom drawer of the oversized metal desk. "Chick called a few minutes ago. He's on his way down from Jesup. Got held up there a little longer than he thought, but he's comin' now, with your thermostat."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded. "Okay. I'll be sure I'm here first thing Monday morning to help you open the shop." Again he swiped a hand through his hair, then blew a puff of breath up over his matted bangs.<br />
<br />
Eddie grinned. "You been a big help to me today, Richie. I woulda never got those repairs and oil changes done if you didn't take care of the customers. I thank you for that." His tone turned fatherly. "You're a good worker, Son. Your parents raised you right."<br />
<br />
With a sheepish shrug Richie looked down at his scuffed boots. "Thanks." A sad little smile ghosted his lips. "My Dad always told me to try my hardest at whatever I did and things would turn out right." Richie couldn't keep the irony from his voice.<br />
<br />
Eddie cocked his head to the side. "I heard you sayin' today you came down South for a job, but things didn't work out. What's that about?"<br />
<br />
Again Richie shrugged, not able to bring himself to meet Eddie's gaze. "Thought I could make it as a musician. I guess I was just chasing a pipe dream." He paused, surprised at himself for the candid answer. He hadn't disclosed to anyone in Darien the real reason for his travels, not even Annie. But for some reason Richie felt compelled to tell Eddie the truth. Maybe it was because Eddie reminded him of his Dad, the one person in the world he always knew he could be straight with.<br />
<br />
"Music, eh?" Eddie waited until Richie slowly raised his head, then gave him a smile. "That explains all that hair, then." A warm chuckle rumbled from the big man's chest.<br />
<br />
The tease made Richie grin in spite of himself. "Yeah, guess so."<br />
<br />
"Let me guess... you're a guitar player." Eddie chuckled again while Richie nodded. "You go to Nashville?"<br />
<br />
"Memphis." Richie shifted in his chair, pulling his feet back and leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees. He looked down at his hands as he twirled the greasy rag around his two index fingers. "Thought maybe I could catch on with a record label there, or maybe get some of my songs to somebody recording at one of the studios."<br />
<br />
"No luck?"<br />
<br />
Richie sighed heavily. "Not really. I hung around the studios some, doing gofer stuff. Got to do a little session work."<br />
<br />
"Well, that's somethin', ain't it?" Eddie smiled encouragingly. "Your playin' was on somebody's record somewhere, right?"<br />
<br />
Richie shook his head, his hair sliding over his shoulders with the movement. "Nah. It was just on some demos. A <i>real </i>guitar player will cut the actual record." He snorted ironically at his choice of words.<br />
<br />
"You meet anybody? Who could help you out, I mean? Introduce you to big people in the music business?"<br />
<br />
Richie chuckled at Eddie's well-intentioned question. "Nah. A couple guys came up and talked to me when I was playing the clubs on Beale Street, but when I got in touch with them later they didn't seem interested in my own songs. As long as I was playing Elvis and Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison and Chuck Berry I was fine, but nobody wanted to talk to some kid from Jersey who wrote songs about girls and cars and the Shore." <br />
<br />
Richie took a breath, feeling again the stab of disappointment at his rejection. "After awhile I realized I wasn't gonna get anywhere in Memphis so I moved on. I kinda wandered around for awhile, trying to figure out where to go next. Then I was in Florida a couple days ago, sitting on the beach with nothin' to do and nowhere left to go."<br />
<br />
"Mmm..." Eddie was quiet for a minute, watching Richie fiddle with the rag. "So you're goin' back home now. What're you gonna do there?"<br />
<br />
Richie's shoulders slumped as his hands stopped their motion. "My Dad's Union. He'll get me a job at the Mill."<br />
<br />
Eddie almost winced at the resignation in Richie's mumbled reply. He could tell from Richie's posture the depth of his disappointment. "Well... that sounds like a good job. Steady work, good money."<br />
<br />
Richie nodded silently, his dark hair curtaining his face as he blinked rapidly.<br />
<br />
There was an awkward pause, then Eddie cleared his throat. When he spoke again his voice was gentle. "Richie, maybe it ain't none of my business, but I'm gonna say it anyway. There ain't nothin' wrong with taking an honest job. It may not be what you always dreamed about doing when you were a kid, but it ain't nothin' to be ashamed of. You gotta do what you can to take care of yourself and your future. You can still play your guitar, but you gotta put food on the table too."<br />
<br />
Richie's shoulders slumped a little more, but he remained silent as Eddie continued.<br />
<br />
"You're a good kid, Richie. A fine young man. You work hard, you're polite and respectful and good with people." Eddie paused to grin. "And apparently you're a pretty good-lookin' guy, judging from the way the ladies were smilin' at you today."<br />
<br />
That comment elicited a husky chuckle of response from Richie. Eddie saw a sheepish smile curve the corners of his mouth.<br />
<br />
"Sooner or later some nice girl is gonna get her hands on you and you're gonna want to settle down, buy a house, start a family. And you'll be set." Eddie waited as Richie raised his head to meet his gaze, then winked. "Son, if you can play the guitar, I bet you got girls linin' up, don'tcha?"<br />
<br />
Richie snorted and shook his head, then straightened in his chair. He pulled a hand through his hair again before slouching against the chair back. "Naw. I mean, I've dated some girls... but nobody special."<br />
<br />
"Mmmm. Well, you're young. Some little Honey will catch you one of these days." Eddie chuckled and leaned back a little further in his chair, eliciting a loud metallic<i> creak</i> from the piece of furniture. "So... what you gonna do tomorrow?"<br />
<br />
Richie shrugged. "Don't know. Annie said there ain't much to do in town. Probably just hang around, maybe read a book or something."<br />
<br />
"Pretty much everything will be closed up tomorrow, except the churches." Eddie raised an eyebrow. "You Baptist?"<br />
<br />
"No Sir. Catholic."<br />
<br />
"Oh. Well, we got a Catholic church too. Saint Agnes, over on Sycamore Street. Don't know what time their service is but I'm sure it's on the sign out front."<br />
<br />
Richie squirmed a bit at Eddie's assumption that he would be in attendance at Saint Agnes' in the morning. He hadn't been to Mass in months. "Um.... okay."<br />
<br />
Eddie noticed Richie's discomfort and chuckled inwardly. He liked the kid, but now he was going to put him on the spot, to get to the conversation he had been meaning all day to have. "Where are you staying tonight?"<br />
<br />
"Uh, Annie said I could sleep on her couch again." Richie's cheeks colored slightly as again Eddie's brow arched at his words.<br />
<br />
"That so?" Eddie drew out the two syllables, giving Richie time to get the message. He paused for a moment, watching Richie shift again in his seat. "You know, Annie's a special Gal. She never met somebody she don't call a friend."<br />
<br />
Richie cleared his throat nervously as he nodded. "She's sure been nice to me. I don't know what I would have done if she hadn't come along and picked me up yesterday."<br />
<br />
"You woulda found your way here eventually." Eddie chuckled quietly. "There ain't no other service station for twenty miles. You just woulda had to walk the whole way, is all." His expression turned more serious as he gave Richie a direct look. <br />
<br />
"But you're right. Annie is a good girl. She's been through a lot in her life, but every day she gets up and smiles and thanks the Lord for another beautiful day. She's special, our Annabelle. She's family. To everybody in this town. You get what I'm sayin'?"<br />
<br />
Richie swallowed hard, flinching at Eddie's stare. "Yes Sir. I hear you," he replied hoarsely.<br />
<br />
"Do you, Son?" Eddie's chair creaked again as he leaned forward, dropping his feet from the desk drawer to the floor and leaning forward to give Richie an earnest look. <br />
<br />
"Look, Richie... this ain't nothin' personal. Annabelle's a grown woman, and she can make her own decisions. And you're a young man, I ain't got no say over what you do. But Annie..." It was Eddie's turn to swallow hard as his voice turned husky. "She's like my own daughter, has been ever since she was a little girl goin' to school with my Betsy. I just don't want to see her get disappointed, ya know?"<br />
<br />
"Wha... disappointed?" Richie was caught off-guard by Eddie's comment. His eyes widened as his brain wrapped around the meaning of the big man's words.<br />
<br />
Eddie chuckled raspily at Richie's surprise. The kid didn't even realize how obvious his interest in Annie was. "Richie, I seen the two of you together. You can't tell me you ain't attracted to her. And let me tell you, Son... I ain't seen her so sweet on a boy for a long damned time. Not since she was in high school." <br />
<br />
Eddie gave Richie another long look, his expression gentling. "Look, I'm not tellin' you your business. But I'm just askin' you... whatever happens tonight, or tomorrow, or before you roll outa town here come Monday... just think twice before you break her heart, okay?"<br />
<br />
Richie nodded slightly, sucking in a long breath as he tried to figure out how to answer Eddie's request. Just as his lips parted with some semblance of a response, he was cut off.<br />
<br />
"Hey y'all.... it quittin' time yet?"<br />
<br />
Annie's musical drawl lilted through the door. An automatic smile curved Richie's lips as he looked toward the office door.<br />
<br />
Eddie leaned back in his chair, chuckling softly to himself at Richie's reaction. He shook his head slightly as he realized that his warning might have been received, but it may not be remembered. He could only hope his assessment of Annie's visitor was correct, that he was a good kid who would do right by her.<br />
<br />
Annie's blonde head peeked around the door frame. "Sheesh. Hard at work I see." She grinned saucily.<br />
<br />
"Girl, this is the first time Richie's sat down all day. Except when you drug him off to the park." Eddie grinned at Annabelle. "At least you brought him back with no bite marks. 'Least none I could see."<br />
<br />
Annabelle moved fully into the doorway and gave Richie a sweet smile. "I was careful," she teased. She giggled when Richie's cheeks colored, and her heart fluttered a little when he didn't look away, his gaze holding hers. "So... You done with him?" Her question was directed at Eddie even as she continued to smile at Richie. "We got plans."<br />
<br />
Eddie laughed. "Plans? Oh Lordy. I know what that means." He gave Richie a grin when the young man swiveled his head in his direction. "Watch out, Son. She'll get you in a heap of mischief tonight if you ain't careful."<br />
<br />
"Really?" Richie couldn't stop his eager grin. "She <i>did </i>mention something about 'mischief' earlier. What the Hell... er...<i>heck</i>... is this place she's taking me?"<br />
<br />
"Oh, you'll see." Eddie and Annabelle exchanged a smile before Eddie's expression sobered a bit. "Seriously though, Annie. You be careful, 'kay? You know things can get kinda rough out there. And take care of Young Richie here."<br />
<br />
"You know I will." Annie smiled and stepped into the office, moving close to Richie. She reached for his hand, delighting in the tingle of excitement she felt when her fingers curled over his. "C'mon Richie. I'm ready."<br />
<br />
"Uh... Eddie? You need any help closing up?" Richie's pulse raced as Annie tugged gently at his hand, urging him to join her. But he didn't want to just run out on Eddie, especially after the serious conversation they had just not-quite-finished.<br />
<br />
"Naw. I'm just waitin' on Chick. You already done everything else that needs doin'. You two go on." Eddie gave Annabelle a little wink and an affectionate grin. "Think you're both ready to have a little fun."<br />
<br />
"Damn straight," Annie shot back with her own sweet grin.<br />
<br />
Eddie laughed and shook his head, then turned his gaze to Richie. "Thanks for the help today Richie. Now go have a good time tonight. See ya Monday mornin'." He watched a shy grin spread across Richie's face and he awkwardly raised himself from his chair. Eddie noticed Richie didn't let his hand slip from Annie's as he stood and followed her to the door.<br />
<br />
"Oh, Richie?" Eddie smirked when Richie turned in the doorway in response to his name. <br />
<br />
"Yes, Sir?"<br />
<br />
"Good Luck, Son."Catte Samborahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04745509847028589133noreply@blogger.com2