"Dammit, John! You left the seat up again!" Abby called from the bathroom. The entire apartment was dark with the exception of the soft glow from the fireplace and the TV set.



"So, turn on the light when you go in there!" John called from the living room.



"I can pee without the light on, John." She called back.



"Not unless you want to fall in again." He quietly mumbled to himself. Abby returned to the living room and quickly slipped under the warmth of the blanket that they were both sharing.



"What did you say?" She asked, finding her still warmed spot. She took the bowl of popcorn from him.



"I said; I'd try to remember." He smiled, snuggling down a bit more under the soft blanket.



"Yeah, well next time you can just go use your own bathroom." She wiggled around to find a more comfortable spot.



They both had their legs drawn up on the sofa, leaning on opposite ends, watching a movie. They each wore their flannel pajama bottoms, he in an old Bulls T-shirt, she in a black tank top. Their legs were tangled under the covers sharing body heat.



"Shh." She whispered, playfully kicking his butt under the covers. John took back the popcorn bowl and set it in his lap. They both continued watching the movie.



She couldn't believe how comfortable she felt. After all they'd been through, both together and separately; they still managed to become closer friends. John was probably the first roommate she'd had since college but by far the most caring and thoughtful one. It was almost as if they were married but they had their separate bedrooms, one at either end of the apartment. With this layout, either of them could bring someone home and the other would not hear anything they didn't want to hear.



"Get me a soda." She again kicked his hip. He pulled his attention away from the television long enough to shoot her a glare.



"Get it yourself, you're closer." He stated, going back to the movie. He was really getting into it and she kept interrupting him.



"I am not. Come on, John," She whined. "Pleeease!" She batted her eyes at him and reached out for his hand but he pulled his hand away.



"I am not." He playfully scooted farther away from her. After several moments, he could still feel her eyes drilling a hole in his side. He handed her the bowl of popcorn. "Fine." He teased, getting up.



"It's cold in here." He complained as he went quickly to the kitchen. He got a soda and bottled water and quickly returned to his spot under the covers, still holding her soda.



"John, don't." She laughed, seeing the evil glint in his eyes.



"You don't think I will, do you?" He said playfully holding the ice cold can in his hands.



"Oh, I know you will," she laughed, holding her hands out to defend herself. He began inching closer to her with a threatening smile.



"Got any spots that are needing maybe a bit of cooling down?" he tormented, bringing the can closer and closer to her warm skin. She squealed as he touched it to her arm.



"Don't!" She squealed again as he made direct contact with her neck. They were now both laughing, John trying to find warm, bare flesh as she squirmed under him.



"How about your stomach?" He laughed, having her pinned under his body, almost sitting on her legs, an arm across her chest.



"Not the stomach! Not the stomach!" She screamed as he pressed the freezing can against her soft flesh. "Enough!" She yelled, giggling like a grade school kid. John, in turn, shook up the can and set it on the table.



"There you go, Abby. It's all yours." He smiled smugly as he curled back up on his end of the couch.



"You bastard!" She laughed, pulling the blankets off his curled up frame. She wrapped herself up and went to get another soda from the kitchen.



"You're not into this movie, are you?" He asked, following her into the kitchen.



"Nope. I mean, I appreciate it and all but honestly, I'd rather watch

'Interview with a Vampire,' she shrugged.



"Next time, you rent the movie. The lady at the video place said 'Ghost' was a good movie. I thought you'd like this one." He said, getting a few baby carrots out of the bag in the refrigerator.



"Too girly for my taste. It's okay, John. I have 'Interview with the Vampire' in my room. Want me to get it?" She suggested.



"Sure. You want some cocoa?" He pulled out a saucepan for the milk and set it on the stovetop.



"You burned it last time!" She shoved him away from the stove. "Just go get the movie and I'll get this going, okay? It should be next to my bed on the far side, probably on the floor." She instructed as John went towards her room.



"Hey, if I'm gone more than a few minutes, send a rescue party, okay?" He teased.



"My room is not that bad, John. Just because you're used to living in a museum," she teased. She could hear him chuckling.



John opened the door to the space Abby called her room. He had to push the door open, shoving the pile of dirty cloths to the side.



"If anything bites me, I'm suing!" He yelled, hearing her laugh. He stepped in a bit further.



Abby was not a dirty person but you couldn't tell that by looking at her room. Judging by her room, it looked as if several people lived in there, along with all their relatives. Clothes laid all over, dirty pile here, clean and folded pile there, books and papers stacked in various places, single shoes strewn about. John shook his head. The only way he could figure out how to get to where she said the movie was located would be over her bed. He crawled up on top and made his way to the far edge, looking across onto the floor.



Just as he was about to reach for the identified video, his eyes caught a glimpse of some pictures. Instead of pulling up the video, he brought the pictures. They were 8 X 10's, all having slid out of a manila folder. John lay on his back and he began flipping through them.



They were black and white pictures mostly, each one more seductive that the previous. Lying on Abby's bed, smelling her scent, John felt himself begin to respond.



"You get lost in here?" Abby called from the doorway. She stopped when she saw John lying across her bed, pictures in hand, and a slight tent beginning around his groin area. She knew exactly what he'd found. He glanced in her direction, smiling slightly.



"When did you have these done?" He asked, still looking as Abby blushed. She joined John on the bed, lying on her side.



"Richard and I had them done. I didn't want him looking at those nude magazines so I posed for him. It was actually a lot of fun. It's about the only thing I actually did get out of the divorce. They're actually written into the divorce papers." She watched him go over them one by one, checking out every detail before going onto the next one. After several minutes, John finally put them above his head and he turned on his side facing Abby.



"They really are beautiful. I mean, you really are beautiful." He brushed a strand of hair from her face. Abby couldn't help but blush, also.



"Thanks, John." She whispered, looking into his eyes. They looked at each other for a long time. Finally, John rolled away and he exhaled loudly.



"Okay, movie?" He reached for the movie, found it, and was heading back to the living room before Abby knew what hit her. As she rejoined him, he was just putting the movie in and they returned to their spots on the couch. Abby held out part of the blanket that she still had wrapped around her body. John looked at it for a minute and shook his head.



"No, thanks, cold is probably a good idea right now." He shuddered, trying to get a certain body part to relax.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



After her neighbor had beaten Abby, she stayed with her ex-boyfriend, Luka for several days. Following the sexual harassment training they were all forced to attend, somehow her relationship with Luka had changed. She began looking for an apartment immediately.



John offered to assist in her search and one day after a very long shift together, Abby found the apartment of her dreams. It was huge, with a large living space in the center that held a beautiful fireplace at one end and a large picture window at the other. The kitchen was open and a breakfast island separated the two rooms with plenty of room for a small dining table. There were two bedrooms, one on either end, both with huge windows and lots of closet space. The neighborhood was good and it was within walking distance of a coffee shop and the El train. Even though she'd fallen in love with it, she just couldn't afford the rent on her salary alone.



That was when John piped in. He'd been living with his grandmother since shortly after he returned to work after being stabbed and while he liked being there for her, Gamma had plenty of help around. When John's mother announced she was moving in, John quickly began looking for something he could afford. This situation seemed to be the answer to both of their living arrangement problems.



They had been friends for a few years having grown into best friends over the recent months. However, suddenly living with each other was very different. While many others raised an eyebrow, wondering just what was going on, the two of them found it to be surprisingly comfortable. There was no pressure and they were able to be open and honest with each other without all the relationship male/female stuff that could come between them. Every aspect of living together was equal.

~~~~~~~~~~



The two of them sat for a long time, both becoming involved in the movie. John had never seen it but knew of the author, Anne Rice. Abby, on the other hand, had seen everything with Brad Pitt and she knew the entire movie by heart. There was just something about the vampires, particularly Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise, which she found strangely erotic.



John had been completely silent, curled up on his end of the couch, totally engrossed for most of the movie. Abby would occasionally steal a glance but he never moved. His eyes were riveted to the television. Just over half way into the movie, John actually let out an audible moan when the older vampire, Armand, was telling Louis that he was beautiful, coming so close to touching him. John had his knees pulled up tightly; hugging them and a pillow in his lap as he realized Abby had heard him and she couldn't help but giggle.



"Oh, Honey, we've got to get you laid!" She snickered. He tossed the pillow he was hugging at her.



"It's your fault." He grumbled, lightheartedly. Abby held up her hands in mocked defense.



"Me? I made you a horn dog?" She exaggerated. He nodded, still glued to the television.



"If you hadn't left those pictures out," he complained.



"Hey! I didn't leave them out! You were in 'my' room. They were on the floor, on the far side of the room. You're the one who went snooping." She teased.



"You sent me in there," he replied in his own defense.



“Yeah, to get the movie. But, no, I come in and find you lying on my bed looking at 'my' nude pictures.” She so enjoyed teasing him. John looked at her for the first time since the start of the movie.



“But they were really nice,” he smiled. Abby couldn’t help but blush. She tucked her toes under his hips and handed him back the pillow. They began watching the movie again in a comfortable silence.



To be continued………..

So far, John was having a day from 'The Horrors of ER Hell!' He was in a bad mood to begin with but everyone he came across so far seemed to be angry or impatient about something. For the sake of his patients he had managed to put up a good front but he was beginning to lose his cheery bedside manner.



"I need restraints in here, now!" John yelled as he and Malik tried to hold the combative patient down. "Sir, you’re going to have to stop moving!" John stated through gritted teeth. The angle he was in and the amount of strength he was using was causing a horrible cramp in his back.



“You want some Haldol?” Malik asked; this guy was even able to fight against the much stronger nurse.



“Don’t let go, Malik! I can’t hold him by myself!” John yelled back. The patient managed to get an arm free and his fist came down on John’s back with a mighty force. "Ah!" John collapsed to the ground.



"Oh, my God! Carter, are you okay?" Lydia asked, seeing the pain on his face. Finally, Haleh ran in with the needed drug.



"I'm fine!" John stated angrily as he stood, took the syringe, and jammed it into the patient's arm.



"That ought to hold you." Malik said, feeling the man go limp under his hold. John limped away, tearing his gown off angrily. He was concentrating on getting his left foot completely to the ground. The guy had hit the exact spot where he'd been stabbed.



"Malik, get another doc in here." Haleh suggested, seeing John's face.



"I'm fine!" John returned to the patient and began checking him over. He did his best to hide the fact that he could not get his left leg to extend completely. "Malik, get an IV set up and get those test results. Let me know when they come back." John slung his stethoscope over his neck and limped out of the room.

~~~~~~~~~~



Abby found John standing outside in the ambulance bay, smoking a cigarette. Sure, he had quit but he occasionally just needed one.



"Those things will kill you," Abby said, coming up behind him. John held his cigarette out and she took a drag.



"So will these patients," He replied solemnly.



"Malik told me what happened. Are you okay?" She asked, gently touching his back. He jerked away like her hand was fire.



"Jeezus, Abby!" He grumbled. Her hand felt like a razor. "It hurts, okay?"

He moved a few steps away from her.



"Should you ask to go home?" She asked. John had woken up in a bad mood today and this didn't help. The fact that he was on for a double also didn't make his mood any better.



"I'm fine." He stated. Abby held onto his forearms, forcing him to look at her.



"Carter, I know you," She affirmed. His self-built wall crumbled. Abby could always see right through him. He smirked.



"Really. I'm okay. It hurts but I'm okay to work." He admitted.



"How bad does it hurt?" She asked, releasing his arms. He laughed, running his fingers through his hair.



"Scale of 1-10? How's 99 sound?” He only half kidded. "Really, though, not that bad, Abby, I'm okay." He laughed. She put her hand on his shoulder.



"Good. We've got patients to see." She led him back inside and back to work.

~~~~~~~~~~



Several hours later it was finally the bewitching hour and time for Abby to get out of the hospital. This day had been hard, having had every nutcase and weirdo in the city needing something from them. Their supplies were low; they were short-staffed and tempers were quick to flare. She was actually very thankful to be a nurse today. Seemed there were always plenty of nurses.



"How much longer you on for?" Abby saw John come into the lounge and get a cup of coffee. He groaned.



"Weaver just extended my stay. I have another sixteen hours because they're short tomorrow. I forgot that when I took this 'Chief' position, that it meant filling in for everyone." He wearily complained; sipping the hot paste someone called coffee.



"How's your back doing? You were limping pretty bad there for a while." She asked.



"It's all right. I'm just tired. That patient hit me and I had this really weird flashback but it's really not that bad." He admitted.



"No painkillers?" She had to ask. He looked at her.



"You think I want to go back to Atlanta? No, Abby. No Vicodin, no Demerol, not even Tylenol. It's fine. I just need to get some sleep." He finished his coffee.



"Well, if you say so. Just keep thinking of your few days off. I hardly ever get two off in a row." She smiled, noticing how tired he already looked.



"You could always go back to med school," he teased. Abby groaned.



"I left a container of lasagna from the other night in here for you. Don't forget to eat it." She headed towards the door.



"Thanks, Abby. See you tomorrow." He smiled, returning to work.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



With the evening sun, the ER was taken over by several major traumas. They seemed to come in one right after the other, taking its toll on the entire staff. Just as they felt a break coming when they could grab another coffee or rest for a few minutes, another rolled in. By the time people began coming on for their morning shift, John was exhausted and his brain was overworked. His back throbbed and all he wanted was five minutes of peace and quiet.



"Carter, why don't you go lie down in exam four?" Kerry suggested as yet another gurney was wheeled upstairs. She'd seen John limping earlier and although he handled himself quite well, she could tell he was acting mechanically.



"I'm fine, Kerry. Just a little tired." He stretched his back a bit, grimacing as the pain shot down his leg.



"Go lie down and that's an order, Carter. Most of us are getting off soon and you've still got a ways to go. Take advantage." She scolded, pushing him towards the empty room.



"Get me if another comes in, all right?" He protested slightly.



"We will." She stated. As soon as he was in the room behind closed doors, she turned to Randi. "No one wakes Carter unless they have to, all right? Let him get at least a couple hours uninterrupted."



"Sure thing, Dr. Weaver." Randi snapped her gum.



As soon as his head hit the pillow, he knew that he wouldn't be able to sleep. Exhaustion had taken over his body and he was unable to physically move but sleep would not be a visitor. His mind was on overload as he replayed the faces repeatedly. The visions of the blood, the injuries, the pain, and most of all, the screams continued to replay in his mind. He could hear them blaring in his head. He held his hands to his ears, begging them to stop. The eyes pleading with him, the doctor, to make it all better, to take the pain away. He felt the first tear and cursed his head. Try as he may, he knew it had come back. All the anguish and heartache welled up inside of him and took his rational side over. He covered his head with the pillow and cried.



A half an hour later and more drained than before, he finally emerged. His first stop was the bathroom to wash his salty face and make sure his eyes weren't too swollen. After all, it was all right to break down but he didn't want anyone to know about it. He strolled out to the admit desk and began looking at the board.



"You're supposed to be sleeping." Randi came up behind him.



"I can't sleep. Got anyone you need me to see?" He asked.



"Weaver's outside waiting for an overdose," She said. John nodded and walked towards the ambulance bay. Kerry caught sight of him immediately as he stepped through the doors.



"John, we got this. Go back to sleep." She insisted.



"I can't." He shrugged as the ambulance pulled up. She looked at the dark circles under his eyes and shrugged.



"All right then, as long as your back is okay. Why don't you take this?" She stepped back as the ambulance doors swung open. John kicked into doctor mode.



"Okay, what have you got?" He said, running along side of the gurney.



"28 year old male found in his bathtub. Slit his wrists and took a bottle of Valium…" The paramedic rattled off as they ran inside.

~~~~~~~~~~



John worked furiously on the overdose but with no luck. He tried everything he could think of to help the man but the blood loss mixed with the drugs had won the battle. He looked into Kerry's eyes; her face telling him it was time to stop. He glanced at the clock.



"Stop compressions." They watched as the heart monitor showed a flat-line. "Time of death, 6:32." He sighed, holding up his hands. Kerry could see exhaustion all over his face; the lines etched like scars around his eyes.



"You did all you could, John," She reassured him.



"It wasn't enough though." He tried to smile but was too tired. He stripped off his gloves and gown. Kerry followed him out of the trauma room.



"John, go lie down. You're exhausted." She placed a hand on his shoulder as the nurses left the doctors alone for a few minutes. Kerry's look had made it very clear she needed a few minutes alone with Dr. Carter.



"I couldn't sleep if I tried." John stated, running his hands through his hair.



"Come on." She took a hold of the front of his lab coat and began leading him towards an empty exam room.



"Dr. Weaver, I'm fine, really," He protested, touched by Kerry's warmth. Occasionally she really surprised him. Their friendship was very strong; having grown so when he had rented her basement but things at work were usually kept on the professional level. Every once in a while, she would do something that reminded him that she did indeed care about John, the person.



"Lie down on your stomach and turn your head to the side, Dr. Carter." Kerry said, bringing him into a dark exam room and shutting the door. John obeyed her request.



"It's not going to work, Kerry." He said as he lay as instructed. Kerry went to the lounge for a few seconds and returned with a heat pack. She sat on the bed next to him and placed a towel and then the heat pack under his lab coat on his lower back.



"Hush." She said, beginning to stroke the side of his face. He smiled.



"Roxanne told you about that, didn't she?" He smirked. One of the few ways he could be put to sleep was to have his face slowly stroked, fingers running gently over each feature, lulling him into a relaxed state. She smiled.



"Lie still and relax." She whispered, running her fingers lightly across his forehead. Up close, his skin was so flawless and Kerry was reminded just how attractive he truly was.



"Should I be worried?" He snickered, relaxing to her touch.



"I've known many intimate things about you for years, John, and it hasn't changed anything. I am worried about your back." She stated.



"Kerry, it's fine. I just have been on my feet a lot today and haven't been bending right. It's fine."



"John, I've noticed you've been a little moody today and your back flares up with your moods. Are you sure you're okay?" She asked, hoping for an honest answer. John was touched by her concern. He reached up and took a hold of her hand and kissed it.



"Really, Kerry. I'm doing okay."



"I have to believe you, John. I can tell you're overly tired and you cannot treat patients being this way. You've already been on for a very long time and you've got a long way to go." She said, running her fingers along the outside of his face. She could see the muscles relaxing.



"You don't have to do this, Kerry. Besides, you're off work. You should go home." He mumbled, feeling himself falling into a deep sleep.



"Don't worry about me, John. Just go to sleep." She smiled, seeing his eyelids fluttering. She stayed for several moments, watching him fall deeper. She was actually surprised with how easy it had been to get him to sleep. He must have been more tired than she thought. After several minutes, she slowly stood and returned to the admit desk.



"How'd the night shift go, Kerry?" Dr. Kovac asked, just coming on for his shift.



"Extremely busy. I'm heading home. Carter's sleeping in exam six. Make sure he gets at least a few hours, okay? He lost more than his share last night and they kind of got to him." She filled him in, letting Luka know that last part a bit quieter than the rest. Luka understood. Sometimes the deaths got to everyone.

~~~~~~~~~~



"Carter?" Chuni called gently from the door. He moved slightly. "Carter? We've got an MVA coming in. We need you," She called.



"What time is it?" He asked, trying to see his watch.



"After nine." She said watching him sit up slowly, the heat pack Kerry had placed on his back falling to the bed. John looked at it and smiled.



"Where's Dr. Weaver?" he asked, still trying to wake up.



"She went home a long time ago. You and Luka are it," She stated as she let the door shut.



"Oh, yeah." He nodded to himself, remembering where he was. John stretched his back as he heard the commotion outside in the hall. He grabbed his stethoscope and ran to join in the trauma.



"What have you got?" He asked Luka, catching up with the gurney.



"Hey, sorry to wake you, Carter. I've got this one. Get the next one." Dr. Kovac informed. John slowed his steps and took lead on the second gurney that was following.



"Okay, what have you got?" John asked the paramedics.



"MVA. Sixteen-year-old ejected from the vehicle. We had to pull him the rest of the way through the windshield. Belly sliced almost in half. . ." John looked at the stomach and he could see the intestines.



"Oh, man," He said as he began calling for tests and equipment. He could tell this one would be messy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Finally, John was able to stabilize the patient enough to be transported and Yosh wheeled the young man towards the elevator.



"You did good." Chuni said, patting him on the back. Most would have given up when the kid came in but John couldn't. He needed at least one success this shift. Even Dr. Romano seemed impressed with his surgical skills but he would never verbalize it to Dr. Carter. John took the rewards where he could get them.



"Thanks, Chuni." John smiled, stripping off his bloody gloves. Sometimes the blood bothered him and other times it was comforting. This moment, the warmth was a good feeling.



"I hear you did good with the kid," Dr. Chen said, coming in.



"He should make it and recover fully." John smiled. He was feeling better, having gotten his second wind at the beginning of the trauma.



"I think Romano was shocked you found that bleeder. He was standing there watching you for quite a while." She smiled, happy that John had gotten that patient. His surgical skills were better than hers were.



"So, I guess I learned a thing or two from Benton, huh?" John smiled, knowing he'd saved that kid's life.



"I'm heading over to Doc's for some lunch. You hungry?" She asked as they walked out of the trauma room. John laughed.



"Deb, I don't think I'll ever get to the point of being able to eat right after a trauma like that." He exclaimed. She laughed.



"The day you do, John, you'll be a real doctor." Deb joked.



"I actually ate right before my nap. Abby made lasagna and she left me some." He admitted.



"Quite the couple, aren't you two?" She teased. John made a face.



"Don't even start, Deb. It's not like that." He stated.



"Sure, John. I'll be back in a few." She winked at him as she walked toward the desk just before John ducked into the restroom.



To be continued -

"Is Dr. Carter around?" A very handsome, middle-aged man asked. Abby was looking through a chart at the front desk when she saw him.



"He's with a patient. Can I tell him who's asking?" She asked. This man was clearly from money, judging by his tailored silk suit. He was tall, like Luka and looked to be built solid and strong. His hair was sandy blonde but she could see the gray beginning at the temples. It was well styled, perfectly kept. He had slight crow's feet at the corners of his sky blue eyes but his smile made Abby's heart flutter.



"Brandon. Dr. Brandon Montgomery." He smiled, radiating warmth that wasn't seen much in the ER. "And you?" He asked, seeing the smile spread across her face.



"Abby." She said, instantly both recognizing each other's names. They smiled knowingly at each other.



"So, you're Abby. Nice to finally meet you," He said.



"Oh, and you also. Does John know you were coming?" She asked, knowing he hadn't said anything to her about Brandon coming. In fact, John rarely mentioned Brandon or his wife Veronica. He hadn't seen or even talked to them in months.



"No, he doesn't. I can't seem to get him to return our calls and he never answers his mail so I just figured I'd pop in and see if he'll see me. Is he doing all right?" He asked, genuine concern on his face. Abby smiled.



"Oh, I think he will be now. He's just been working a really long shift so he's probably very tired. Other than the normal ups and downs, he's okay." She shrugged. "I'll see if I can find him. Why don't you have a seat over there? It could take a few minutes." Abby grinned.

~~~~~~~~~~



"Dr. Carter?" Abby made her way to the exam room. John was completing the sutures on an elderly woman's arm.



"Yes?" He answered, tying the last stitch.



"There you go, Mrs. Henley. Make sure you come back in ten days to have these removed and keep a clean bandage over it, okay?" He informed his patient.



"Sure, Dr. Carter. Thank you." She smiled as Haleh placed a bandage on her arm. He walked out with Abby.



"You'll never believe who's here," Abby whispered. John looked up questioningly.



"Who?" He looked at his watch.



"Remember a little event that we attended where you did some prancing on a stage? And then you got to spend a week having the most incredible sex of your life?" She smiled. John paled, looking towards the lobby. He pulled her into an empty exam room.



"Who's here, Abby? Veronica or Brandon?" He looked almost panicked. Abby couldn't help but to laugh.



"Brandon. Man, you've been holding out on me, John. You never told me that he was that good looking, and oh so hot." She teased. John ran his hands through his hair.



"Oh, man, Abby. I can't go out there. I mean . ." He tried to explain.



"What's the big deal? You had incredible sex with the man, John!" She laughed. John held his finger up to his lips.



"Jeezus, Abby. Broadcast it for me, would you?" He blushed, looking around to make sure that no one heard her.



"What's with him saying you never returned his calls or the letters he's sent? You never mention them anymore. He said he figured he'd come down here and see you in person. What's up? I thought you had a great time with them." She asked.



"Oh, I did." John smiled nervously. "I had a great time, it's just, that it was almost too good, I mean those two are definitely addicting." He felt himself becoming very aroused at the thought of Brandon. "That's what makes this whole thing so weird. God, I can't believe he's here. Jeezus, Abby. I get turned on just thinking about the guy." John was trying to hide himself knowing that Abby had already noticed the bulge in his pants. Abby began to laugh at his nervous excitement.



"John, I'm not surprised. From what you told me, it was pretty special. Go out there and explain to the guy why you've been avoiding him all these months. And remember, you owe me a foursome!" She said. He stopped pacing and stared at her.



"What?"



"Go find out how long they'll be here. Find out if Veronica is with him. Her, I'd like to meet. Maybe we could have them over for dinner at our place, hmm?" She kidded, fixing his collar.



"Really? There's a lot you haven't told me about you, isn't there?" He smirked.



"Get out there!" She playfully shoved him out the door.



John looked at Brandon sitting in chairs, looking more debonair and sexy than John had remembered. Brandon's whole face lit up when he saw John walking towards him.



"Dr. Carter!" Brandon stuck out his hand, smiling knowingly. He could see John blushing.



"Dr. Montgomery." John said, taking the man's hand in his own. He held on to it, remembering all the things this older man could do and had done with this hand. The soft touch and warmth of his skin made John even more uncomfortably aroused as he became lost in the older man's eyes. John looked at their hands entwined together. Brandon cleared his throat, bringing John back to reality. John smiled.



"You haven't been avoiding me now, have you?" Brandon asked, melting in John's big brown eyes.



"Actually, yes." John smiled sheepishly, shifting his feet, trying to loosen his slacks.



"When are you off?" Brandon asked, finding this crowded area not at all to his liking. He wanted so badly to kiss John, right in the open. John blushed.



"In a few hours, but . . . . " John began to protest but Brandon stopped him by thrusting a hotel card key into his hand.



"Ritz-Carlton, room 624. We need to talk." Brandon stated. His command made John's legs feel weak.



"Just talk?" John's voice cracked slightly. Brandon smiled.



"We'll see. What time can you be there?" He asked. John looked at his watch.



"I've been up for three days straight," John began to come up with excuses. Brandon noticed Abby nearby.



"Abby?" He called. She looked up with a smirk. "What time does Dr. Carter get off work?"



"Uh, in an hour." She replied, seeing John's panicked face. But underneath it, she could see he wanted to be with Brandon again. Brandon looked back at John. "Meet me there at four." Brandon stated.



"I need to change and shower. Come on, Brandon, make it seven." John protested. Brandon turned back around and said very clearly.



"Don't worry about it, Dr. Carter. You can shower and change at my place. See you at four." Dr. Montgomery walked out of the emergency room. John turned around and tried to walk quickly to the lounge but Abby caught up with him, giggling like crazy.



"I can't believe he did that!" John whispered loudly. "What are people going to think? Damn him." He swung open the door to the lounge, ducking inside.



"Calm down, Carter." Abby laughed, seeing how red John's face was. "It just sounded like you two were going to meet for a basketball game or something like that. Nobody could tell what any of that was about." She grinned.



"You think so?" He asked, needing the reassurance that Brandon hadn't told everyone about his secret.



"Please, John." She said. "So, you think he wants to talk?" She questioned.



"I don't know." John shrugged. "We haven't exactly kept up with each other in about six or seven months." He said, looking at the hotel cardkey that had been shoved into his hands.



"But you did end up with the key to his room. That's got to mean something." Abby smiled. John thought about it for a moment.



"I guess it does." He smiled, and returned to work out his last hour.



To be continued……….

John found himself standing in the hallway outside Brandon's door, unable to make his legs work. 'Why had he come?' he asked himself. 'Okay, you idiot, the guy turns you on! No,' He thought, 'His wife turns you on.' John found himself smiling involuntarily. 'They care about me enough to come all the way to Chicago looking for me.' He thought. 'What would his family think of him if they knew where he was at at that moment, standing outside the door of a hotel room, trying to decide if he could enter and pick up where they'd left off, which was in bed? Their relationship hadn't been built completely on sex, now had it? No, they did have Atlanta.' John shuddered. That was one experience he'd just like to forget ever happened. 'So, what had he done with his life lately?'



He leaned against the wall, still staring at the door. 'Well,' He thought. 'He'd made Chief Resident, brought in a major amount of money through an auction, watched friends fall in love, break up and die, he'd been the best doctor he knew how to be, and he'd found friendship. Okay,' he continued his internal conversation. 'So, Brandon and Veronica were included in his subconscious tally of accomplishments. Maybe he was meant to walk through that door and fall passionately into the arms of a very caring and incredibly able man.' Then he frowned. 'Or maybe Brandon just wanted to talk.'



Hesitantly, John stepped towards the door. He checked his watch. 4:18 pm. He was late. Well, he'd actually driven directly from the hospital, sat in the parking lot for several minutes, and had been standing here in the hall for several more. He had been on time, even a bit early but he still wasn't sure why. He carefully slid the card into the slot, watching the red light turn green.


Taking a deep breath, he placed his hand on the doorknob and turned it.



"Brandon?" He called as he tentatively walked through the door. The lights were off and there was a soft glow coming from what he assumed was the bathroom. The room was spotless, hardly looked as if someone was even using it, but John knew Brandon was here. John could sense his presence.



"I believe you said something about needing to clean up?" Brandon entered from the doorway of the bathroom, wearing only a towel and a smile.



John's eyes went directly for the tent in Brandon's nether region, making him smiled.



"I did." John nodded, totally seduced in a mere second. He dropped his bag on the floor, kicked off his shoes, and walked slowly towards Brandon.



"You can't get into the tub with all these clothes on." Brandon reached out for John's tie as he pulled him closer. He slowly slid it off, their eyes totally locked on one another. Brandon began unbuttoning John's shirt, one at a time. John just stood there, watching his eyes and his hands do the work. Brandon slid his shirt down his shoulders, exposing skin. Brandon stepped closer, their bodies still not touching as he kissed the spot where John's neck joined his shoulders.



"Oh, God." John whispered, feeling Brandon's tongue. He forced himself not to reach out. Brandon smiled.



"Well, that's the top half." He grinned, wickedly.



"Need any help?" John whispered hoarsely. Brandon shook his head.



"Oh, no, I think I have this under control." Brandon ran a finger down John's face, across his neck, circling both nipples and then slowly down John's stomach, watching the muscles ripple involuntarily. Brandon unbuckled John's slacks and he dropped to his knees. John reached out for the wall to brace himself, his groin ached for Brandon's mouth.



Brandon slipped his hands in the back of the slacks feeling John tense his buttocks. His hands were still the only part of his body touching John and he could see that his touch was working to arouse John. Gently, he lowered the pants to the ground and helped John step out of them.



"Hm. I think your boxers are getting a little tight." Brandon moaned, his face close enough that John could feel his warm breath.



"What do you suggest we do to remedy that, Dr. Montgomery?" John asked, moving his groin closer to Brandon's face. Brandon smiled as he leaned up and stuck his tongue in John's belly button, making John laugh.



"Tub." Brandon stood, stepping aside so John could get into the bathroom.



"You're a tease," John laughed. Brandon slapped his butt as he walked by. Brandon climbed back into the bathtub, dropping his towel. John glanced at himself in the mirror and groaned. "Man, I look like shit."



"Not from this angle." Brandon chuckled from the tub. John smiled and turned around. "Drop those shorts and get over here." Brandon demanded impatiently. John had learned when it paid to be obedient.



"Yes, sir." John slipped off his boxers and Brandon groaned loudly, touching himself. John was standing proud as he climbed into the huge tub. "So, you came all the way to Chicago to get me to take a bath?" John asked as he stood at the opposite end of the tub. Brandon just looked back and chuckled.



Slowly, John lowered himself as he wearily relaxed into the hot water. His eyes dropped closed as he felt himself unwind from his hectic shift. Seeing the exhaustion etched across John's face, Brandon poured some fragrant bath wash onto a cloth and leaned forward, gently rubbing it into John's skin. The tropical scent of the soap and gentle touch of Brandon's hands gliding the lathered cloth over his body was smoothing and refreshing as John relished in Brandon's tender care.



"What ever happened to your insatiable hunger, John? Don't tell me you went on a diet," Brandon teased; reaching for the shampoo, he poured the thick liquid into his hand and began gently scrubbing John's unruly top. Rubbing his thumbs in little circles around John's temples while his fingers massaged his scalp. The sensation was almost enough to put John to sleep.



"Uh, well, I sort of have been starving myself." John smiled, kicking himself for not having kept up the contact. This felt so good, he thought as he felt the tension in his body leave him.



"And whose fault was that?" Brandon questioned, moving closer, using the washcloth to rinse the soapy suds from John's hair. As John's hair was rinsed, Brandon placed his hands on either side of John's head and gazed deep into his eyes.



"Mine." John whispered as Brandon brought his lips down onto his, touching so softly, barely making contact. John moaned. "All mine." He whimpered as Brandon kissed him again, this time stronger.



Brandon felt John's soft lips, warm and full and he wanted to deepen the kiss and take control of John's entire body but he held back. There was some reason why John hadn't kept in contact and he wanted to make sure he didn't push John away before he found out why.



John reached out and found Brandon's member. He wrapped his hand around the base, relishing in the hardness and the power it held. Brandon moaned against his mouth.



"I'd forgotten about how good this felt." John mumbled, inviting Brandon into his mouth with his tongue.



"I didn't forget how good 'you' felt." Brandon pressed himself against John's hand. Their kiss deepened.



"I was so stupid." John mumbled, stroking Brandon slowly.



"Nothing about you is stupid, John." Brandon straddled him, clamping his thighs against John's hips as John held him tight.



"I need to taste you, Brandon, all of you." John gasped, his breathing coming in shallow pants. Brandon stood to get out of the tub and he held out his hand. John took it, following Brandon to the dark bedroom. Both were dripping wet but neither cared. They came together in a full contact embrace, both moaning as they began to frantically kiss one another.



Mouths, moans, hands, nibbling, and tongues licking every bit of flesh in an urgent need for one another. Brandon's hands were running through John's wet hair as John's fingers tangled in Brandon's chest hairs. Essential need for one another took over as they toppled onto the bed, tangled as one body. John kissed and licked his way down Brandon's chest and before Brandon knew what hit him, John had engulfed his raging erection.



"Ahh." Brandon cried, feeling John's hot, wet mouth take him fully on the first try. "Oh, shit, John!" Brandon collapsed back on the bed, unable to support his own weight. John's movements were frantic, almost violent as he swallowed Brandon whole. It stopped as suddenly as it started.



"Brandon, I need you." John kissed his way back up Brandon's stomach, to his chest. John sounded so desperate, so needful. Brandon rolled on top of him, protecting his body with his own, pressing himself, grinding against each other.



"John." Brandon moaned, feeling John clutching desperately to his body as if he were starving.



"Please, Brandon. I need you inside me, please." John begged, covering Brandon's neck with hungry kisses, hands roaming, pulling him closer. Brandon felt his own desire quadruple in John's need for him. Brandon reached for a condom and the lube he had placed on the nightstand. John held his body, not allowing Brandon to stray.



"Oh, God, John." Brandon gasped as he smothered John's face with kisses. He quickly made his way down his chest. John was so hot that there was little need for any more foreplay. John was more than ready and Brandon hurt, he was so ready.



Placing the condom over himself, and coating himself with the lube, he could see John offering his body to the doctor. Brandon had never desired another person as much as he desired John at that moment. He smeared a generous amount of lube onto his fingers and gently massaged John's opening, feeling the muscles clenching and relaxing, begging to be taken.



"You ready?" Brandon asked after he'd easily gotten three fingers in.



"I've been ready for six months," He smiled. Brandon brought himself just to the rim, feeling John tense up.



"Come on, Baby, relax for me," Brandon coaxed, leaning over and taking a nipple in his mouth.



"I like it when you call me 'Baby,' John moaned, arching his back slightly. Brandon entered slowly. John let out both a sigh and a moan. "Oh, fuck!" He exclaimed, feeling Brandon enter him so slowly.



Without losing contact, Brandon managed to shove a pillow under John's hips, raising him up so that Brandon could get on his haunches. He thrust deeply, ever so slowly. He could see John's eyes practically roll in the back of his head.



"Oh, Baby, you are so incredibly hot inside." Brandon said, more to himself than to John. John's arms were outspread, clutching the sheets.



Brandon found a steady rhythm and he brought a hand down on John's pulsating cock, smearing the creamy wetness along its length. John gasped, not even having realized he still had not been touched.



"I wish I could make love to you all night and taste you at the same time." Brandon whispered, stroking him in time with his painfully slow and deep thrusts.



"Oh, yeah." John cried quietly. He was concentrating on every sensation, every nerve ending in his body.



"I would thrust over and over into your mouth," He thrust deeper.



"Harder." John cried, his throat completely dry.



"I would take you in my mouth, swallowing you." Brandon continued. John's hips were beginning to pick up so he increased his pace.



"Oh, God!" John panted as Brandon hit his prostate repeatedly, right on target.



Brandon could feel John's member swelling in his hands. He began thrusting harder and deeper.



"Oh, God!" John yelled, arching his back.



"That's it, Baby, just a bit more," Brandon coaxed, holding back his own release, wanting John to climax first.



Suddenly it hit his body with a tremendous force, shooting through his brain, down his spine and directly through his groin into John's body. Brandon thrust with all his strength as he heard John's strangled moan. The thick liquid shot out onto his hand as he filled the condom deep in John's depths. The electrical currents continued until Brandon could no longer take it. He carefully pulled out and collapsed his soaked body on top of John's, feeling the hot liquid on their bellies.



"I never . ." John whispered, now totally hoarse. Brandon kissed his chest.



"Me either." He smiled, rolling off of John and lying beside him side. John was instantly curled up in a ball against him. Within minutes, John was asleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~



Brandon woke a few hours later, noticing the beautiful blues of the moon still rising across the horizon. John was sitting in a chair, wearing his boxers, looking out the window. His feet were up on the other chair and he seemed relaxed.



"Hey, there," Brandon said, sitting up and stretching. John looked at him and smiled.



"Hi, yourself. I ordered some coffee from room service. Want some?" He asked, holding up his cup.



"No, thanks." Brandon groaned as he got up from the bed and went to the bathroom. "What time is it?"



"Eight fifteen." John said still looking out the window.



"You must be hungry." Brandon said, coming back out and giving John a kiss on the top of the head.



"Not really," He placed his hand on top of Brandon's on his shoulder.



"You want to go get food later?" Brandon asked, gently massaging John's shoulders.



"No. I'd rather stay in," John smiled.



"Okay, we can stay in, John." Brandon smiled to himself. He had missed John's company.



To be continued………….

It had been one of those days. It was finally 7pm and Abby could not wait to punch out and get home. Curious to see if John was around, she actually hoped that he wasn't for his sake. God only knew that boy needed to get out and have himself a little fun. They had been living together for quite awhile and she knew that he had not been with anyone since his little fantasy weekend with Brandon and Veronica.



Now that she could put a face to the name, she felt a bit jealous at the thought of John not being home tonight. She certainly understood how he could fall for someone like Brandon, though. The man was positively HOT. She had just reached the time clock when she heard Randi calling her name.



"Abby!" Randi called. Abby spun around and headed out the door, not even bothering to go to her locker. She had her wallet and keys, which she had taken out when she had gone to Doc Magoo's for coffee a bit earlier and she figured that there was nothing else she needed.



"I'm out of here, I'm going home." Abby exclaimed, calling back in Randi's direction as she waved on her way out.



"Wait a minute, Abby." Randi ran after her.



"I'm not working another shift," Abby shouted back. She was at the bay doors when Randi caught up to her.



"Hold up, Abby, there's a woman here looking for you. I told her she could wait for you in the lounge," Randi explained. "I figured you would see her," Randi said as she led Abby to the lounge.



Upon entering, a very well-dress woman stood looking around at the various posters that littered the wall of the lounge.



Randi introduced the woman to Abby and left.



"Veronica, it's nice to finally met you. You know that John's not here right?" Abby wasn't sure just exactly what was safe to tell her.



"Yes, I believe he is being well taken care of at the moment," Veronica flashed Abby a rather wicked grin.



"I do hope so," Abby caught her meaning and the two giggled together for a few seconds. Abby suddenly felt like she had known this woman forever. She had never felt this at ease with anyone so quickly in all her life. Even her relationship with John had started out pretty casual in the beginning.



"I was out doing a bit of site-seeing, just giving the guys a chance to have a bit of fun together before joining them when I thought about checking out where John worked." Veronica shrugged casually, "I though I might see if you could join me for dinner," She added.



"Uhh… sure. I'm off as of this moment, you mind if we stop at my apartment so I can shower and change?" Abby seemed quite taken by Veronica's tall slender frame and long blonde curls. She had an olive complexion; sparkling green emerald eyes and wore only a hint of make-up to highlight her high cheekbones and full lips.



Abby thought of the few times that she had teased John about a foursome and suddenly the idea was a bit more appealing than she had ever really thought. Veronica was beautiful in a very sensual sort of way, a natural beauty uncluttered by artificial means.



Veronica, also felt a bit turned on by the younger brunette whose eyes seemed fixated on her. "Or we could just get take out and go back to your place if you want?" She suggested, hoping that Abby would prefer to eat in.



"Yeah, that sounds great." Abby agreed. She really wanted to spend some time getting to know Veronica, but she really didn't want to go out. "We can call from here and pick it up on the way," she suggested pointing out a few menus from local take out's that were pinned to a small bulletin board on the wall above the telephone. "What sounds good? Pizza, Chinese, Italian?" Abby ignored the many others, hoping that Veronica would chose from one she mentioned.



"I think Chinese sounds wonderful." Veronica answered as Abby picked up the phone and dialed the number. Together they glanced over the menu quickly and picked out what they wanted as Abby waited for the line to be picked up.

~~~~~~~~



As soon as they arrived at the apartment, Abby put the food in the kitchen.



"When were you planning to meet the guys?" Abby asked as she leaned against the counter watching Veronica as she looked around.



"Oh, we don't have any specific plans," Veronica fixed her eyes on Abby for a moment.



"Well, I'm going to jump in to the shower real quick. Would you like something more comfortable to kick back in?" Abby asked as she noticed Veronica's tight straight skirt and long sleeved dress blouse. She had already unbuttoned the jacket and was taking it off. The idea of helping her out of her clothes played in Abby's mind. She was suddenly brought out of her thoughts by Veronica's sweet voice.



"Abby, I don't think you would have anything that would fit me, but thank you anyway." Veronica smiled as she noted how tiny Abby was. Small but far from frail, Abby looked like she could hold her own against just about anything.



"Not to worry, I'm sure I could find something." Abby scampered into John's bedroom and picked out a pair of flannel pajama bottoms with a drawstring waistline. Veronica was much taller and slightly larger in the hips than Abby's tiny build. Abby had already figured that she probably wouldn't have anything comfortable that would fit her, but she did manage to find one of her own oversized T-shirts and offered them to Veronica while she went in to shower and change into something a bit more comfortable.



By the time Abby had finished, Veronica had changed, made some hot tea and had served up the food and reheated it in the microwave. Abby placed the teapot and cups on a small tray with the sugar bowl and set it on the coffee table in the living room. She picked up her plate from the breakfast island and invited Veronica to come join her on the sofa. Tossing the crumpled blanket across the back and picking a pillow up from the floor, she fluffed it up a bit and made herself comfortable.



"Sorry about the mess," Abby smiled. Except for a few scattered medical journals, a stray sock here and there, and the sink full of dirty dishes, used coffee cups and glasses that littered the kitchen counter, the place was actually well kept.



Veronica fluffed the pillow that lay on the opposite side of the sofa and settled down across from Abby on the end where John usually sat. "The place is quite nice, very cozy." Veronica remarked, as she looked around the spacious living space. "I noticed that there are two bedrooms, do you have a roommate?" She asked as she dug into her chow mein, the last thing that she wanted was someone coming home and interrupting their little dinner party.



"Uh, yeah, actually, it's John." Abby furrowed her brow towards Veronica, wondering what on earth was wrong with him. "Wow, John really has been keeping you guys in the dark." Abby blushed.



"Really?" Veronica's jaw dropped at that piece of information. She suddenly wondered if John had finally found what he really wanted and that is why he had never returned their calls. Maybe John didn't want them around after all.



"So tell me Abby, how is John?" Veronica asked fishing for whatever information that Abby was willing to divulge.



Abby giggled at the remark, "Fine I guess, I mean I have never slept with him so I really don't know." They both broke out into playful laughter at Abby's light-hearted joke.



"Seriously, I'm not sure. Most the time he's great, he's cheerful and playful. He's like a little kid with all this excess energy. Then there are the days when he is moody and cranky and every little thing seems to set him off and all he wants to do is hibernate is his room all day." Abby sighed as she began to pick at the rest of her meal. She was full and didn't really want the rest.



Abby set the unwanted plate on the coffee table as she sat back and watched Veronica finish her food.



"I can't really blame John, though. I mean he works some pretty long hours. Ever since he became Chief Resident, he is at the hospital more than he's home. I don't know how he manages to stay on his feet some days." Abby spoke with a genuine concern for John that gave Veronica a sense of how close they really were.



"Actually, I'm not so sure that John is really going to be up for much tonight, after all he just finished a 24 hour shift." Abby's voice seemed to sound as though she was worried about John.



"We can call them if you would like," Veronica offered.



"No, that's all right. I don't think that John would be too keen on me checking up on him." Abby smiled sheepishly as she giggled nervously.



"You know, Abby, you have nothing to worry about. Brandon will take good care of John. If he needs sleep, Brandon, will make sure he gets it." Veronica placed her empty plate on Abby's and poured them another cup of tea.



Abby took the cup from Veronica as Veronica tapped the edges of the cups together. "To friends, old and new, and to fantasy, hunger, and trust." The words spilled from Veronica's lips so naturally as she winked seductively at Abby, watching her reaction.



"So, what exactly does it mean?" Abby bit her lower lip as a tingling sensation swept through her. John had told her a few intimate details about the weekend he had spent in New York and she remembered asking him about the leather bracelet that he only wore for about a month after he returned.



Abby remembered him saying that the initials were. 'F, H, and T' and what they stood for but he had refused to go into any details as to their meaning.



"It's just that. 'Fantasy, Hunger, and Trust'. No hidden meaning." As Veronica sipped the luke-warm liquid, her eyes remained fixed on Abby.

"We have just satisfied the 'hunger' part." Veronica giggles lightly as she tipped her head and pointed to the abandoned plates on the coffee table. She flashed Abby a devilish grin.



"Now, do you 'trust' me, Abby?" Veronica watched her closely, gauging her reactions, as she had no intentions of scaring her off. She wanted this to be an experience that Abby would remember and cherish for a very long time, possibly even forever.



"Uh… yeah, I guess so," Abby spoke softly not sure of where this was leading, but somehow she knew that she could trust Veronica completely.



"Well, then the 'fantasy' part is totally up to you," Veronica smiled broadly. She continued to drink the tea as she watched Abby.



Abby sat contemplating the meaning of her words. The two sat silently for a while, neither one wanting to make the first move.



Something about Abby had struck a chord with Veronica. She could see a look in her eyes that made her appear to be as deeply wounded and afraid of relationships as she knew John to be. She had also gotten a very clear sense from both John and what little she knew of Abby, that these two were joined at the hips in their friendship but each too afraid to explore the possibility of a deeper and more meaningful relationship.



Abby broke the silence when she got up from the couch and began picking up the used dinner dishes. Placing them on the island, she decided that it was time she cleaned up a bit in the kitchen. She began rinsing out the dishes and placing them in the dishwasher. Veronica joined her and offered to help. In no time at all, they had the dishwasher going and the kitchen cleaned. Abby suddenly had a ton of nervous energy as she wiped down all the counters and began picking up the various items scattered about.



Veronica smiled as she watched Abby. "What kind of music do you have?" She interested herself in looking through the rather large collection of CD's on the entertainment center.



"Oh, I like a lot of different stuff." Abby spoke as she deposited a handful of items into the dirty clothes hamper in the bathroom. She took a quick look around and straightened the towels on the rack. She gathered up an array of cosmetics and junk and put them away in the drawers.



Veronica turned the stereo on and surfed up and down the dial until she found a local 60's and 70's rock station.



Abby stepped back into the living room to find Veronica swaying rather seductively to 'Crystal Blue Persuasion'. Abby stood back watching her, she wanted to join her but afraid to make a move.



The song stopped and went right into Credence Clearwater Revival's 'Proud Mary.' Veronica picked up a pen from a nearby desk, pretending it was a microphone; she started singing very 'Tina Turner' style. When the music changed to 'Blinded by the Light' Abby pickup a pencil and joined her in a rather loud rendition, followed by 'American Women.'



Veronica cranked the music up a bit and the two continued their Karaoke through several more songs until 'Unchained Melody' began. Veronica held out her hand to Abby. "May I have this dance?" She smiled as she waited for Abby's response.



Without reservation, Abby allowed herself to be led around the room. John loved to dance so they had cleared an area large enough to do so. Just as the song ended, Veronica searched Abby's eyes, looking for any indication that she would refuse her next advance. She leaned down and sweetly pressed her lips against Abby's as 'Hotel California' began to play. Abby found herself opening her mouth, inviting Veronica in as their tongues tangled and their hands tentatively roamed each other. Veronica breathed in Abby's Vanilla Musk as the scent intoxicated her; she wanted more of Abby. Afraid she might be taking things a bit too fast she stilled her desires and softly nibbled an earlobe, breathing her warm breath into Abby's ear making her weak in the knees.



Abby found her hands slide up under Veronica's T-shirt pulling it up over her head. Veronica smiled and bit down on her bottom lip at the thought that Abby was willing to move this along. While Abby's arms were still raised above her head, Veronica removed Abby's black camisole as well. Veronica reached across to fondle Abby's naked breasts, touching them ever so lightly, teasing them to perfect little points. Abby leaned against the front of Veronica's white satin corset. She licked little wet circles along the tops of her full breasts while her arms wrapped around the back reaching to unhook the monstrous contraption, which kept her from what she wanted.



Abby had never been with a woman before but she had never had any inhibitions when it came to sex either. It didn't take much thought for Abby to know what she wanted. Once she had the last hook undone, Abby gasped at the site of Veronica's full breasts. Even at her age they were still quite firm. Abby snaked out her tongue and began to lick at the nipples until each one was firm. She sucked one into her mouth as she felt Veronica's breath nibbling up and down her neck.



"Oh, God," Abby squealed with delight as the hot breath sent shivers down her spine. Veronica had slid her hand inside Abby's pajama bottoms and finding her very intimate spot, she began to gently rub in a circular motion. Abby pushed herself against Veronica's hand. The contact was more than she could bear. It had been quite awhile since she had had sex with any one besides herself. The last time being the phone sex she had with John. Since they had moved in together he had refused to even do that again.



Although there had been a few times that she had been lying awake in her room when he came home after work and she had heard him in the shower very obviously giving himself a little needed release. She never said anything to him because she didn't want him to stop. She figured that he thought that the water muffled his sensuous groans enough that she wouldn't hear, little did he know that he was coming in loud and clear and she was right behind him as she stroked herself to the sounds of his moans.



Just as she realized that the entire time that Veronica was stroking her to the height of her pleasure she had only been thinking of John as she found herself cry out his name.



She guiltily placed her hand over her mouth as she waited for Veronica's reaction. Veronica smiled sweetly and kissed her, tasting her, still wanting her.



Abby slid her hand along the waistband of Veronica's bottoms pushing them down over her full hips. Her hands followed along Veronica's muscular thighs. This woman definitely worked out Abby thought as she helped Veronica step out of the bottoms. Abby was on her knees as she looked up and saw the beautiful patch of blond curls right within her reach. This was definitely new territory for her but Veronica's scent called for her to take her. Abby leaned forward and licked as Veronica's wet clitoris. Eliciting a groan of pleasure so sweet that Abby captured her with her lips and began to suck. She had had oral sex performed on her enough times to know what felt good and she could tell by Veronica's reactions that this was good. Veronica spread her legs giving her better access at Abby slipped a finger inside her continuing to lick feverishly at her clit. Abby had never tasted a woman before and the very thought of Veronica coming as she licked at the sweet nectar made Abby want more.



Veronica held onto Abby's shoulders as she felt her knees grow week. God, the things that Abby was doing was fantastic and she was ready to come as she gripped Abby's shoulders and pushed her self harder against Abby's invasion of her.

"Oh God, Abby that was great," Veronica pulled Abby up and kissed her wet lips, wanting to taste herself on Abby's mouth. They stood there holding onto each other for the longest time still kissing and touching.



"Abby, can we go to your room," Veronica whispered.



Abby was suddenly embarrassed about what a mess her room was in, but it suddenly occurred to her that John was most likely not going to be home until morning. She turned off the stereo and led Veronica into John's room.



"I don't think John will mind, he has a bigger bed." Abby didn't want to admit that she was a bit of a slob and that they might not find their way back out if they went to her room.



"Wow, this is really nice," Veronica, said looking around at the various photo pictures on John's walls and the king sized bed with it thick down comforter.



Looking at the clock, they could not believe that it was already midnight.



Abby pulled back the covers and invited Veronica to get in. Veronica scooted over to the other side of the bed as Abby crawled in after her. Before Abby had time to even settle in, Veronica was over her straddling her hips and kissing her passionately. Abby just melted under her, allowing her to have her way as she slowly kissed down to her breast taking each one meticulously in her mouth and sucking until Abby was literally pushing her down farther begging her to go down on her.



"Oh, God! Veronica," Abby cried out as she felt the warm juices flowing through her.



"I see you remembered my name, " Veronica teased.



Abby captured her mouth hungrily, tasting herself on Veronica's mouth, another first to write down in her Diary later. Fueled by the taste of her own scent she quickly went straight down between Veronica's legs again. Veronica was totally turned on by Abby's eagerness. She had never been with a woman that wanted her so badly before.



To be continued…………

"This is a nice neighborhood." Brandon commented as John pulled up in front of his building. He really wanted to pick up a clean change of clothes and his hygiene kit if he was going to spend his time off with Brandon and Veronica. They would be in town for several days, having checked with Kerry on John's schedule.



Actually, it had been Kerry whom had first noticed John's moods. For the first several weeks following his trip to meet the couple, John had been upbeat and seemed to be content. But with the following months, with his family woes, his new responsibilities with work and his sudden relocation of residence, his moods again became unstable. Kerry worried about him but was not in the position to get him to confide in her anymore, especially after the sexual harassment incident. Kerry Weaver had to remain his superior. That's when she got the idea to call in her back up.



Kerry was not surprised to discover that John had stopped all contact with the couple. She had seen his relationships with his coworkers change as well. Susan, whom he dated, became a friend. Luka, while never being on a friendship level, seemed to cool off to a mutual jealousy rather than all out hatred for each other. John had lost his male support system – Both Peter and Mark were gone and he no longer had a male companion to turn to for encouragement.



Abby seemed to be taking on the role. She'd always been a friend to John but his relationship with her had changed. Everyone had seen it. They all remembered when John was head over heels in love with the emotional nurse but she had been with Luka. Abby and John were close but people could see that there was more there than the friendship. Neither would admit it, but everyone could see what was growing and blooming between them.



Then suddenly, they moved in together. Everyone thought it very strange since both insisted they were just roommates. They even had a pool going to see when the two finally realized that they were in love with each other. Even staff from the other floors joined in, the entire hospital was watching.

~~~~~~~~



"It's actually a nice apartment. I'm not sure how clean it is, though. I haven't been home much and my roommate is sort of a slob." John shrugged, punching his code into the front door of the lobby.



"You have a roommate?" Brandon questioned. They hadn't done much talking yet. John was still a bit standoffish about what was going on in his head.



"Yeah, couldn't handle living at home any more so Abby and I moved here." John explained.



"Abby? This is the one from the hospital, right? The 'good friend?' Brandon questioned.



"Yes." John smiled. "And she's still just a friend," he snickered, knowing what Brandon was thinking by the smirk on his face.



"The same one you had phone sex with, the day you came to our place?" He asked. John again nodded.



"And that was the last time for that, also. I know what you're thinking, Brandon. We're just friends. Everyone at the hospital thinks something's going on also but it isn't," he shrugged.



"Why not?" Brandon asked. That question made John stop and think for a moment.



"I don't know. I think we both need the friendship right now," He said, continuing towards the elevator.



"And what about the sex talk we had? The one where I told you that maybe you two could just have sex?" Brandon questioned. John was embarrassed and happy that no one else was in the lobby.



"I could never have sex with Abby, Brandon. That's the problem," he admitted.



"Why not?"



"Because it would mean too much," John shrugged. Brandon nodded. Without realizing it, John had said a mouthful.

~~~~~~~~~~



"Here we are." John opened the door. He could tell Abby was home because her keys were tossed on the table. He could smell Chinese food and saw the remnants of dinner in the trash. "Abby's probably sleeping, I'll just get a change of clothes and be right out. Make yourself at home."



John headed towards his bedroom door, noticing that there were two glasses still sitting on the counter. Abby had probably brought someone over and judging by the surprising cleanliness of the kitchen, were most likely together in her room now. He felt a pang of jealousy run through him, thinking of Abby being with someone and he stopped in his tracks, confused. Since when did he care who Abby dated? Well, she hadn't dated anyone since Luka. They both talked about how to handle the roommate thing if they had dates but neither of them seemed to want that right now. They seemed perfectly content sharing their free time with each other.



John's head shot up towards his door when he reached for the handle. Had he just heard a moan? A female moan coming from his room? Anger began building up inside of him. Abby's room was such a pigsty that if she had brought a date home with her, she probably just assumed since she knew he was out with Brandon, that she could use his room. The idea of Abby being in 'his' bed with another man infuriated John and he was about to barge in and begin yelling when Brandon stopped him.



"John, I think maybe you should wait." The older man said, noticing the jealous rage in John's eyes.



"I don't think so!" John stated, again going for the door. Then Brandon held up a jacket, one that John knew did not belong to Abby. Brandon was smiling.



"Uh, I think I just figured out why my wife hasn't shown up at the hotel yet." He grinned. Shock, arousal, and finally surprise registered across John's face.



"Veronica is in there? With Abby?" He asked, whispering loudly. Just then, they heard someone cry out 'Yes!'



"Sounds like Veronica made a new friend." Brandon chuckled.



"No, that was definitely, Abby, I've heard her say that when she's alone in her room." John said, matter -of -factly. Brandon laughed.



"Oh, and how often do you listen at her door at night, John?" He asked. John blushed.



"I don't," he laughed. "But when the television is off, it's pretty easy to hear if you're sitting on the couch. She has a tendency to be very vocal." He grinned as his face turned pink. Brandon just shook his head.



"I wonder if they're playing 'Canasta'." Brandon joked.



"Abby's been teasing me about a foursome since I spent that week with you guys." John commented, now both men listening.



"Should we join them?" Brandon suggested. John immediately shook his head.



"Uh, no. Why don't we wait out here, though? Can I get you a soda or some water?" John began to rummage in the refrigerator. Knowing what was going on just a few feet away was making him nervous, very aroused, but nervous.



"Why don't you want to go in there, John?" Brandon asked, coming up behind John and putting his arms around him. "Doesn't the idea of a foursome interest you?" He nibbled on John's ear.



"Uh, I don't know. I'm not saying it doesn't but I don't think I've had enough sleep to deal with those kind of emotions right now." He admitted truthfully. Brandon had to give him credit for that.



"Okay, so, why don't we just light a fire, snuggle, and make out on the couch?" Brandon suggested, smiling.



"And listen to their screaming?" John smirked.



"They aren't screaming yet." Brandon stated.



"They will. Remember, I've been with your wife and trust me, Abby will start any time soon." John joked as he brought water and joined Brandon on the couch. He got back up, lit the fire, and then leaned back against Brandon as they watched the fire gain strength.



"Oh, God, yes!" They heard.



"Abby." Both men said in unison.



"So, why have you been avoiding us, John?" Brandon asked as he gently stroked John's hair.



"I'm not sure." John mumbled, quickly feeling his exhaustion coming back. "I've been dealing with my family a lot and time has passed quickly. I'm always working and before I knew it, six months had passed." He shrugged, lying his head on Brandon's lap.



"It wasn't something we did?" Brandon asked, tracing John's features, noticing him getting sleepy.



"No." He mumbled. His whole body felt like it was drifting on a cloud. "Trust me, it was me, not you." He said, slowly falling into a deep sleep. Brandon watched the fire for several minutes. Then he heard the screaming.



'Wow!' he thought. 'She 'is' a screamer.' He checked John to see if it had woken him up but John was fast asleep, gently hugging his thigh. Brandon smiled.

~~~~~~~~~



A while later Brandon heard the bedroom door open. Veronica wore a long T-shirt and nothing else. She smiled, seeing her husband.



"Fancy meeting you here." She whispered, giving him a kiss. He could smell Abby still on her lips.



"Sounds like you found, Abby," he teased. Veronica smiled as she got a glass of water.



"She said he'd be tired. How is he?" She asked, sitting on the end of the sofa by John's feet. She gently stroked his calves, causing him to stir slightly.



"Can't tell yet. There is definitely something going on. He was almost desperate for physical contact." Brandon explained, still stroking John's face. "How's Abby? What's she like?"



Veronica smiled. "She's spunky, very energetic in bed and she really cares about our sleeping prince." She said quietly.



"I think there's more to their little arrangement than meets the eyes," Brandon commented.



"I think there's more than meets their eyes. You should hear how Abby sounds when she's talking about him," Veronica said. Brandon nodded.



"Probably the same way he talks about her. He said something about Abby wanting a foursome but when he had the chance, he backed out. I think he'd have run away if the door hadn't been there." He chuckled.



"Yeah. She gave me the feeling she was open to the idea," Veronica said.



"We could always carry him in there and put him in bed with her," Brandon suggested.



"When they're both ready, it'll happen. We'll just see if we can help them along a bit," Veronica said as she smiled at Brandon. "Well, Hon, I'm exhausted. I'm going to go back in there and wrap myself around that spunky brunette. You all right out here?" She stood and gave her husband a kiss.



"Yeah, perfectly fine. Good night, Darling." Brandon kissed her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



John woke slowly, realizing he was on the couch, the blanket wrapped around him. He gradually opened his eyes, hearing voices. He could tell they were trying to be quiet to not wake him. He smiled, hearing Brandon and Veronica.



"He looks good, though," Brandon said.



"Kerry said he's been working almost around the clock for months now. She's actually surprised he's been able to keep up with all the administrative functions as well as seeing patients but she says he's handling it well. She said he's been getting closer to his family or his mother at least. Helped a young boy who had leukemia," Veronica explained.



"Didn't his brother have leukemia?" Brandon questioned.



"I think so. Kerry said he died when John was young. That's why he went into medicine," she said.



"So, how was Abby?" Brandon asked, smiling. Veronica purred.



"Very healthy appetite. She's very energetic and inventive, which took me a bit by surprise," She laughed softly.



John smiled at this piece of information. Maybe if he just stayed there and pretended to be asleep for a while longer, who knew what he might learn.



He heard his bedroom door open and could just imagine Abby standing there, hair astray, trying to figure out where she was.



"Good morning," Veronica greeted. John could hear Abby shuffle towards the kitchen. "Coffee's made." Veronica poured a cup and offered it to Abby.



"Did John make it?" Abby mumbled. Veronica laughed.



"No, He's still sleeping on the couch," Brandon said.



"Good, because he makes shitty coffee," Abby said. Both Veronica and Brandon laughed. "You're here early, Brandon. John did go to your hotel, didn't he?"



"Mm Hm." He nodded. "We came by late to pick up an extra set of clothes and he fell asleep on the couch." He explained. Abby looked shocked.



"You guys were here last night? When?" She asked, suddenly aware that she's spent the night with Veronica, in John's room no less.



"Oh, let's see…. Between, 'Oh God' and before, 'Yes, Yes'…. Why?" Brandon teased. Abby turned a million shades of red.



"He's still sleeping?" She whispered loudly.



"Over there." Brandon pointed to the couch. Abby suddenly looked very nervous.



"Oh, man. Look, I'm sorry but I have to jump in the shower and go someplace. I'm sorry. I can't be here when he wakes up. Not if he knows what I did last night." She said, pouring her cup of coffee down the sink and heading towards her room. Veronica stood and stopped her.



"Abby, Hon. Why are you so nervous? Do you think he'll have a problem with what you did?" She asked. Abby kept glancing towards the couch.



"I, uh, I'm not sure. I mean; you guys are his friends." She said, trying to come up with a reason for being so nervous all of a sudden. She wasn't even quite sure why.



"I'm allowed to have my own friends, Abby," Veronica smiled. Abby shook her head.



"But you guys haven't seen that side of John yet. He can get really jealous. He's kind of weird about that kind of stuff. I mean, he was so jealous of Luka, and then he sort of dated Susan for a while. Half the time, I feel like I'm walking around on egg shells." She explained.



"Why? Does he do anything? Does John scare you, Abby?" Brandon asked. Abby joined them at the table.



"The only thing that scares me about John is how he keeps things so bottled up inside. He's just so . . emotional at times. One of these days, he's just going to explode. I was telling Veronica last night how he's bouncing off the walls one minute, all happy and upbeat and then the next minute he's angry and withdrawn. At the hospital, we've all come to see when his moods change and when to just stay the hell away from him." She said. Veronica got her another cup of coffee.



"Doesn't sound like he's taking his anti-depressants anymore. Think he's bi-polar?" Brandon asked. Abby snorted.



"Uh, no. That's one I know a little bit about and John is not bi-polar." She laughed; shocked they would think that. "No, I've been learning little things as time goes by. Did you guys know his first sexual experience was when he was eleven? We had to go to this sexual harassment training thing and we were all telling stories about how and when we lost our virginity. He said he was eleven and that it was with a twenty-five-year-old maid who worked for his family. Susan and I were so mean to him that day. We actually laughed at him. I've wanted to talk to him about it, but whenever I bring up the subject, he walks away. That's one thing about John. When he doesn't want to talk about something, he won't and he just leaves," She shrugged.



"Well, that doesn't sound healthy," Veronica, commented.



John lay there listening to them talk about him. They were talking about very personal things, things that they had no right discussing about him, things that they knew nothing about. How did they think they knew why he did the things he did? And there was Abby, feeding more and more information to them like they were old friends.



John stood abruptly, glared in their direction, walked silently into his room, and slammed the door.



"Oh, shit," Abby dropped her head to the table.



"I wonder how much he heard," Veronica asked no one.



"Judging by the look, pretty much everything," Brandon said feeling as if they'd all completely betrayed the one man they all wanted to help.



To be continued…………

Abby pounded on the door. "John, open the door!" She demanded. Her fist was aching from banging against the solid wood but still there was only silence from the other side. "John, come on, please? We're just worried about you. Come on."



She looked toward Brandon and Veronica for help, not knowing what to do.



"Has he got anything in there that he could maybe…" Veronica asked quietly. Brandon shot her a look and shook his head.



"He wouldn't do that," he said, trying to convince even himself. He took his turn at the door.



"John, come on, Baby. I really need you to talk to me. You've got all of us worried about you. I know that you heard us. We're just trying to figure out how to help you." Brandon pleaded. He heard mumbling coming from the opposite side of the door, judging by where the voice was coming from, he figured John was leaning against the door.



"I didn't hear you, Baby. What?" He asked, his voice much softer.



"I said I don't need your help," John said, this time louder, but not angry.



"John, you are not alone in this world. Hell, Veronica and I came down here because we were worried about you. Kerry called us and told us something was wrong. Abby's a wreck out here, John. Can't you see how many people care about you and don't want to see you hurting?" He continued. At least John was talking to him, even if it 'was' through a door.



"Don't talk about me behind my back," He mumbled.



"John, you won’t talk to us to our face so we have no choice. Come on, open the door and talk to me," Brandon begged. He stood there for several minutes and finally heard the lock slide open. Looking at the girls, Brandon tentatively turned the handle.



John had moved to the chair at his desk and he was staring at his bed. It was still in a state of chaos from the girls' extracurricular activities. He looked hurt and so young but it didn't look like he'd been crying. Brandon knelt in front of him and cradled his face in his hands.



"Talk to me, Baby, tell me what's going on inside." Brandon kissed his forehead.



Abby and Veronica looked on from the door. Brandon was being so tender that it reaffirmed the depth of his feelings that Abby could tell Brandon had for John. This older man had become like a brother, father, and lover all in one and John needed him so badly.



John looked into the man's eyes, feeling warmth envelop his entire soul.



"I feel like I'm dead inside." John managed to smile slightly. "The only time I feel alive is when I'm with you or your wife."



"Oh, Baby." Brandon reached up and wrapped himself around the younger man. John clung to him as Veronica came into the room, bringing Abby by the hand. Veronica nudged Abby towards him.



"John," Abby said, touching his shoulder. Brandon moved out of the way and Abby knelt in his place. She held his face and tenderly brought her lips to his, tentatively, but with all the emotion and love which she felt for the man.



Her lips were so soft. Here he was, feeling open and vulnerable and there was Abby, when he needed her most. As their lips touched, John felt his head begin to spin. All that mattered was Abby and the caring he felt coming from her lips. While only mildly erotic, he could read her mind and feel her heart. He felt as if they were connected deeper than anyone he'd ever been with. It was as if their souls were one; her dreams and loves equal to his own; becoming a part of him.



Brandon stood next to his wife, gently wrapping his arm around her back. He gently kissed her cheek, smiling at the sight before them.



Abby pulled away, keeping her face close to John.



"I am alive because of you, John," she whispered. He squeezed his eyes shut, unable to believe her. "I need you near me to feel alive," she admitted. She again leaned in to kiss him.



John felt her lips again, the electricity running through his body. How long had he wanted to hear, to believe those words from her? He couldn't believe her. She was just trying to make him feel better. She could never realize how much he needed her; so much it hurt, even more than he needed Brandon and Veronica.



Before the kiss went any further, he pulled back and smiled softly.



"Thanks," he whispered, pulling his emotions back inside, rebuilding the wall a brick at a time. He couldn't let Abby know how he really felt. He was her friend and a friend was all he could ever be.



"Well," Brandon stated, breaking the tension in the room. "I don't know about you kids, but I, for one, am starving. Where does one go for food around here?" He asked. John and Abby broke their stare and Abby stood up.



"Uh, we…" She said, blushing. She tucked a piece of hair behind her ear. "There's a nice coffee shop just down the street. Their coffee isn't much but it's cheap and the refills keep coming." She smiled nervously, stealing a quick glance to John. He was again staring at the bed. She began to clumsily straighten the comforter.



"I have an idea. Let Abby and I get cleaned up, we'll take you two back to your hotel so you can get cleaned up and we'll go to the Falcon for brunch." John suggested, pulling his attention away from the bed.



"Can you afford it?" Abby whispered. Brandon overheard her and laughed.



"Not to worry, Abby. We're inviting the two of you to join us," he smiled. Abby's heart melted as she looked at his smile.



"Uh, okay." She fumbled with her camisole strap nervously. She excused herself walking past Veronica and Brandon and was headed towards her room. Veronica followed her pulling Brandon along with her.



"Hold on, Abby, I have an idea," she said to Abby then turned her attention to John, who had watchfully followed them out of the room.



"You go shower first, Mister, I want to speak with Abby a minute." Veronica turned and gestured for him to go back to his room.



John looked as if he didn't trust her to be left alone with Abby. The sex hadn't bothered him nearly as much as the talking about him behind his back. Although, he knew that he was definitely feeling a pang of jealousy.



"John, do you still trust me?" Veronica placed her hand on his cheek. He involuntarily pressed his face against her palm, relishing in the feel of her warm touch.



He swallowed hard as he allowed her to wrap her arms around him, holding him tenderly. He just needed to be held at the moment. He exhaled heavily as he pulled away from her and nodded, her palm held against his face again as her eyes searched his, waiting for his answer.



"Yeah, I do." He choked out the words and kissed her palm, not ready to lose contact with her.



"Okay then, go shower." She turned and slapped his ass.


"Ow, what was that for?" He scowled, rubbing his butt.



"Go, you big baby," Veronica scolded, causing everyone to laugh heartily.



John just shook his head and headed back to his room.



"Maybe I should see if he needs some help," Brandon offered as he kissed Veronica.



She nodded as Brandon followed John into his room. John was sitting on the bed removing his shoes when Brandon sat along side of him.



"John, I'm really sorry about earlier," he began. John ignored him as he went to his closet, pulled out a shirt and tie, and continued looking for a pair of pants. Brandon leaned against the closet door.



"Don't worry about it," John shrugged. He really didn't want to talk about it any more. He was trying not to dwell on all the negative feelings he was having and just go out and try to have some fun.



"No, John it's not all right and I don't want to make you feel uncomfortable in any way."



John unbuckled his belt and pulled it from his pants, tossing it on the bed with the rest of his clothes. John slid his pants off and stepped out of them, kicking them aside. He continued to fumble with the buttons of his shirt when Brandon moved closer and offered his help.



"I can undress myself," John stated sharply, drawing in a deep breath as he pulled away from Brandon. His mind was going a million miles a minute as he wondered what Abby was doing that very moment. He suddenly tore at the shirt, ripping the buttons right off and threw the shirt to the floor.



Brandon backed off and threw his arms in the air. "Fine, John, do it yourself," Brandon huffed. Realizing his pissy attitude, he carefully moved John's clothes off the bed and sat down, gesturing John to sit, also.



"John, I'm sorry. Would you like to just sit and talk for a while?" Brandon knew that John was hurting and he didn't know what to do to make him feel better.



John sat down against the headboard, drawing his legs up against his chest as he pulled the comforter up over his bare legs. Brandon turned so that he was leaning against the footboard opposite John. He sat and watched John shiver.



"Are you cold?" Brandon asked, but didn't get a response as he watched John pull the comforter tighter around him. "John, talk to me, please." Brandon spoke calmly. John stared back as his chills began to subside.



"I guess I'm the one that should be apologizing," John started, clearing his throat. "It's just that I wasn't expecting you, and don't get me wrong, I'm glad you’re here but so much is happening so fast my mind just isn't keeping up. I'm tired and hungry and just plain frustrated as hell." John rested his head on his knees.



"I could send Veronica to the market and we could just stay in if you would prefer." Brandon leaned forward and waited patiently for John's response.



"No, that's okay," John slowly pulled himself to his feet, grabbed his bathrobe and went to the bathroom.

~~~~~~~~~



"What took you two so long?" Veronica nibbled at Brandon's neck. "Did you two have a little appetizer before brunch?" She giggled.



"No." Brandon just stood there for a minute, then moved towards the couch.



"So, Abby and I have been talking and we have decided that since Abby doesn't own a 'decent' dress, after brunch I am going to take her shopping. We'll go have our hair done and just have a little fun for a while. The two of you can do whatever you want for a few hours and we'll meet you back at the hotel. John can bring along his tux, change there, and we can go to Dominic's for dinner, maybe even go out dancing or something."



"That sounds nice." Brandon sat quietly on the couch as he thought about John. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all.



'Here we are un-invited, we've just barged in and intruded on his life like this. Maybe Kerry had been wrong and she really didn't know him at all. Maybe John didn't know how to share his desires to the point that when someone seemed the least bit interested he just jumped at the chance to have any type of physical contact. It would certainly explain why he had seemed so needy the night before. Why he seemed so eager for Brandon to touch him and to kiss him and even the way he had cuddled up to him when he was so tired, he just couldn't stay awake another moment. If Kerry was really so concerned about his welfare, why the hell did she insist that he work such ridiculously long hours?'



Brandon was beginning to think that this whole fantasy idea had been a big mistake. John still had not told them why he had avoided having any contact with them for the last 6 months.



John came out of the bathroom, wrapped in his bathrobe. He stood in front of the fireplace to dry his hair with the towel. Brandon noticed him shivering again and began to get a bit concerned. He stood up and stood near John.



"Are you feeling okay, Baby?" Brandon asked, placing his hand on John's forehead. He didn't feel feverish but Brandon could not help but wonder why John seemed to be so cold.



"I'm fine, yeah, I'm wet and naked, and it's cold in here." John complained as he checked the thermostat, turning it up a bit before going back to his room and closing the door behind him.



"John, grab your tux and bring it along for later," Brandon called after him on his way. John just waved, indicating that he understood.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~



"He's always cold," Abby said as she headed towards her bathroom with the clothes she had picked out.



Brandon sat back down on the couch and Veronica sat next to him. "Is there something wrong, Hon?" Veronica asked as she brushed her hand through his hair.



"I'm not sure, Roni, maybe we shouldn't have come." He whispered, praying that he wouldn't be overheard.



Veronica leaned against him and kissed his cheek. "It's going to be okay, we just have to get John to realize his true feelings," she whispered back as she smiled at her husband lovingly. "Everything he has ever wanted is staring him right in the face and he refuses to see it. We just need to find out why."



John emerged from his room dressed in a pair of black jeans and a heavy gray, cowl neck sweater. He was carrying a garment bag, and a toiletry kit, which he laid across the breakfast island. Brandon chuckled as he watched him walk over and stand in front of the fireplace.



"You can't possibly still be cold, John, not with that thing on." Brandon laughed.



John sat on the couch and leaned back into his corner. "No, I'm warmer, now. I just like the idea of a fire even if it's not real."



"Oh, sort of a 'pyro' at heart huh," Veronica giggled as she reached over and squeezed his knee, causing his to jump. John laughed out loud giving Veronica a toothy grin as he admitted that he was very ticklish there.



"Well, I'm glad to see that you're feeling a little better." Veronica leaned over and kissed him. His lips parted as he closed his eyes, enjoying the kiss.



Abby stepped out of the bathroom carrying a small canvas bag and a leather purse. She was dressed in a tight pair of jeans with a light blue sequined sweater. She looked away as she saw John and Veronica lost in a kiss. She felt a lump in her throat and a tug at her heart.



Brandon stood instantly and held out his arm in a gesture to escort her. "Abby, you look splendid." He complimented her, turning his attention towards John and Veronica. "Are we ready to go, my dears?"



To be continued…………

Brandon ushered Abby into the back seat of John's Jeep as he coaxed Veronica into the front. Meanwhile, John opened up the back and was putting his and Abby's bags inside. While John drove to the hotel, he handed Veronica a small piece of folded paper and smiled mischievously at her.



Veronica waited until Brandon and Abby became self-involved before discreetly reading John's note, sensing that it was something that John wanted only her to know of. John had made a special request for the evening and was asking her help in formulating his plan. He also had given her a couple of phone numbers to help her in finding proper attire.



John was looking forward to the evening. Even after his little temper tantrum earlier, he had promised himself that if Veronica could help with this secret plan of his, all would be well, but couldn't help feeling a bit jealous as he adjusted the mirror so that he could steal a glance at Abby as she made out with Brandon in the back-seat. John could hear her soft moans as Brandon kissed her along her neck and nibbled lightly at her ear. Veronica stroked John's thigh as she smiled in his direction, making it difficult for him to concentrate on the road. He was getting aroused, but it was coming from Abby's moans and not what Veronica was doing with her hands.



As John continued to watch them, he once again felt the pang of jealousy well up inside him, as he thought about how casually Abby had defiled 'his' bed with Veronica and now she seemed to think nothing of defiling 'his' Jeep with Brandon. The longer he watched, he could not help but feel somehow betrayed by all of this. He couldn't understand why he felt this way and why everything that was happening was bothering him so much.



By the time he arrived at the hotel, he was wishing that he had just opted to stay home.



Brandon and Veronica made their way quickly into the bedroom, leaving John and Abby alone in the living area together.



Veronica pulled her husband into the shower and began scrubbing his back.

"Do you think that we are doing the right thing?" Brandon asked her. He was beginning to feel as though it would have been better for John and Abby if they had just left well enough alone.



"Honey, I don't think that John knows how to tell Abby, and Abby certainly does not have any intentions of admitting her feelings toward John."



"But, I saw the looks he was giving us, and I'm not comfortable with making him feel bad or uneasy."



"Brandon, Darling, you did have your tongue stuck down her throat." She laughed. "Don't worry, Dear. Think of this as 'tough love'." Veronica reassured him.



"But Roni, how is he going to trust us if he feels betrayed?"



"Trust me, Brandon, this is the only way that John will allow himself to get this close to her." Veronica pulled Brandon in for a deep and passionate kiss feeling along his length as he swelled against her manipulations.



Brandon chuckled playfully as he pulled back, taking her hands and placing them on his hips as he held her in a warm embrace. "Then, I think we should save it for our guests," he smiled and pressed his lips against hers. "And I don't think that we should make them wait too long," Brandon said as he poured some shampoo into his hand and vigorously scrubbed his long hair.

~~~~~~~~~~



John sat on the couch, eyeing Abby as she strolled quietly around the room. She had pulled the drapes opened to find behind them a sliding glass door that led out onto a balcony. Stepping outside into the chilly morning air, she wrapped her arms around her body as she leaned over the rail, watching the busy city street below. She was only there for a few minutes when the cold breeze was more than she could bear.



She quickly stepped inside, closing the door behind her, shivering for a moment.



"Damn, it's getting cold out there." She found herself sitting down next to John, and leaning against him, her body begging for the warmth that it needed.



John wrapped his arms tenderly around her and drew her near as he brushed a stray lock of hair away from her face. He held her for a moment not saying a word, no smile, no emotion whatsoever, just simply holding her. He closed his eyes and leaned back allowing her to snuggle up beside him. It felt good, almost too good. How could she still think that they could only be friends? What was wrong with him that he could not tell her how he felt? He wanted so badly to kiss her at this very moment, the way he had seen her kissing Brandon. 'His' Brandon. How could she do that to him? How could Brandon do that too him and Veronica also, for that matter? With all the things that were going on inside of him, he still could not find it in himself to push her away. He didn't want to. He wanted to find a way to pull her near, pull her inside of his very being, make her one with him, he just didn't know how.

~~~~~~~~~~



Brandon and Veronica dressed casually and went to join John and Abby.



"Well, would you take a look at this," Brandon snickered as he pulled Veronica in front of him leaning against her shoulder.



"Do you think that maybe we should let them sleep for a while?" Veronica cooed as she turned to kiss her husband.



"I think I'm just going to call room service," Brandon chuckled. "I'm starving," he added as he headed for the phone and ordered breakfast.



"What do you want, Roni?" Brandon asked, still giggling as he watched his sleeping guests. John was lying on the couch with Abby snuggled up on the inside with her head on his chest, their fingers entwined together.



Veronica took the phone from him and placed her order.



"I ordered plenty of extra in case they wake up anytime soon," Brandon whispered as he heard Veronica ordering.



"And coffee, lots of coffee," she added before hanging up.



Brandon and Veronica sat at the small dining table and talked quietly as they waited for breakfast.



"Do you think maybe they have figured it out all ready," Brandon asked, sounding a bit too hopeful.



"I doubt it, this is probably the norm for them," Veronica answered in a very low voice. "This seems to be as intimate as they will allow themselves to get."



Brandon just shook his head in disbelief, he just could not imagine what it would be like to be so close to the one he loved and not be able to express his desires for her.



Veronica smiled as she watched Brandon across the table from her. He was alternating between keeping a watchful eye on the sleeping couple and stealing glances her way. Brandon smiled sheepishly at Veronica when he realized that she knew that he was admiring her. She knew how worried he had been and still was in regards to John.



She reached out her hand and placed it on his. "Honey, we just have to believe that everything is going to work out."



"I hope so," Brandon sighed doubtfully. The two sat silently for a moment as Brandon took Veronica's hand and placed it against his lips. "I'm so lucky to have you, Love." He whispered sweetly, "I do love you."



"I love…" A loud knocking on the door suddenly interrupted them. Veronica jumped suddenly and giggled at the thought of being so entranced by the moment that the sudden noise had startled her.



She got up quickly and went to the door, hoping that it hadn't awakened their guests. She opened the door to let in the bellboy and softly asked him to try to be very quiet. He raised an eyebrow at the couple sprawled out on the sofa as he went about his business of bringing the buffet cart in and unloaded it onto the table.



Abby stirred groggily as she realized where she was. She slowly extricated herself from John, hoping not to wake him. Veronica held out her hand to help her to her feet.



"God, I'm sorry, " Abby whispered as she checked her watch and found that it was already late morning. She had been asleep for about 45 minutes. Veronica graciously escorted her towards the table.



"Not a problem," Brandon whispered as he watched John snuggle against the couch. "I guess he wasn't kidding when he said he had been up for nearly three days straight."



"With only a few catnap here and there, yeah," Abby confirmed.



Brandon poured Abby a cup of coffee, and pulled out a chair on the opposite side of the table for her to join them. She sat in the chair, where she had a perfect view of John as he remained sleeping. Brandon fixed his plate and invited the girls to do the same. He had not eaten since late the night before, when he and John had stopped at an all-night diner on their way to John's apartment. Brandon was famished and had no intentions of waiting for the girls if they intended on dawdling.



Veronica was flipping through her wallet looking for the business cards of a couple well known boutiques and a day spa with a salon where she was calling to make appointments for her and Abby. Finding the note from John that she had tucked away, she made one last phone call.



"Better eat something, Hon," Brandon suggested as he watch Abby sitting there sipping coffee with her eyes transfixed on John. "Sounds like Roni has a big day planned for the two of you."



"Did you guys have anything planned? Like on your own, without us?" Abby asked. She sort of felt bad for Brandon that John was spending all of his time sleeping, but on the other hand, she was glad that he was getting the needed rest. She knew too well how cranky he could be when he couldn't sleep when he needed too.



Abby was really looking forward to the evening. She hadn't seen John in his tux since the charity event at the history museum, well over a year ago. Although, she did remember how absolutely delicious he looked in that black suit that he wore to his grandfathers funeral. And of course not to mention that absolutely fabulous outfit that she had helped him pick out for that charity auction at the hospital. John really looked handsome when he was dressed up and she was looking forward to seeing him like that again.



Abby had finally helped herself to a bowl of fruit and a bagel as Brandon explained that he hadn't made any specific plans. He wanted John to feel free to do what ever he wanted. After all, these were his days off and if sleep was what he needed then that was fine with him.

~~~~~~~~~~



Veronica and Abby had finished their breakfast. After giving Brandon a kiss good-bye, they headed out to start their day.



Brandon wandered around the room straightening up and putting away various items that were scattered about as he watched John, still sleeping peacefully. Finding a small box of plastic baggies in a cupboard, he put away the bagels and muffins that had come with breakfast and placed the coffee urn on the counter to save. The room had a small kitchenette with a microwave and he figured it couldn't be any worse than the mud that John was used to drinking at the hospital. Tossing out the remainder of breakfast except the assortment of fruits, he decided to go into the room and read for a while.



It was early afternoon when John was suddenly awaken by the call of nature. Sitting up and looking around, it took him a while to orientate himself to his surroundings. It was so quiet without a soul around. The last thing he remembered was Abby checking out the balcony and coming back in, freezing to death and curling up with him on the couch. He smiled as he thought of how easily they relaxed into each others arms.



He rose from the couch and went into the bedroom to use the bathroom. He was mildly surprised to see Brandon stretched out on the bed, with a book lying on his chest, sound asleep. After using the facilities, he came out and curled up next to Brandon. John spooned his long body along side Brandon's and ran his hand up along his thigh. Getting no response from the sleeping man, he settled his hand across his chest and relaxed his head against his shoulder. He was just about comfortable enough to fall back to sleep when his stomach reminded him that he hadn't eaten for over 14 hours. He was actually beginning to get a headache from the lack of food.



"Brandon," John called as he leaned towards him, "Bran...don..."



"Hey, Baby," Brandon replied. John's face looked so peaceful and tender that Brandon couldn't help himself. He rolled over and wrapped his arms around John, pulling him closer. He began to kiss John, but even though he didn't pull back, Brandon could tell that there was something different about the way John was responding. He just was not as 'hungry' as he normally was.



"Something wrong?" Brandon asked, brushing his palm against John's cheek.



"Yeah, I'm starved, I was wondering if you wanted to go with me to get something to eat?" John asked. He figured that Brandon probably already ate by now but he really wanted the company.


"We ordered breakfast while you were sleeping. There is some fruit and some bagels left." Brandon suggested. John shook his head.



"I'd rather go someplace. I need to wake up. Can we just go someplace?" John asked, his eyes pleading.



"Oh, yeah, sure," he got up. "Where do you want to go?" Brandon asked, putting on his shoes.



"Just somewhere close, downstairs is fine." John answered as he rubbed at his forehead.



John and Brandon headed downstairs to the coffee shop. John didn't even bother with the menu as he rattled off his order the moment the young waitress approached the table.



"Did you want anything?" John turned his attention towards Brandon.



"Oh, no, just coffee, please." Brandon winked in her direction.



John ate a rather hearty breakfast even though it was past noon.



"Did you have any idea as to what you want to do today?" Brandon asked as he watched John eating.



"Not really, I suppose we could go out to the gym and play some basketball." John sat back with his coffee, finally beginning to feel satisfied.



After John had finished his meal they went back to the room after his keys and their jackets. John told Brandon that the gym had a locker room and just bring something to play in. He grabbed a pair of sweat shorts and a sleeveless sweat shirt and quickly changed into tennis shoes.



John drove to a private gym close to where he and Abby lived. The place wasn't fancy but it was big and had an indoor basketball court. As they entered the court, there were several young college aged kids playing a rather heated game. John and Brandon stood back wondering whether or not to join them when a young lad tossed the basketball to Brandon and shouted in his direction.



"Hey, Pops, think you can keep up?"



Brandon caught the ball and dribbled it quickly in the direction of the lad, avoiding another trying to block his path.



"Pops, huh? Think I'm too old to take you on?" Brandon smirked playfully as he stood face-to-face, still dribbling the ball. He suddenly stretched his tall frame and sent the ball sailing into the air, straight into the basket from just outside the key.



By now, John was in position directly under the basket and before the rest of the kids even noticed what had just happened he had the ball and ran out of bounds with it. He whistled at a kid standing near by to throw the ball back into play. The kid swiflty pick up on his move and was halfway down the opposite end of the court before anyone knew where the ball was. Once again the ball was sunk and the score remained tied.



The game continued for another 15 minute until a timer rang and the score stood at 34 to 36, Brandon's group in the lead where he had scored the team another two points. Someone called time and they broke up, the first kid approached Brandon and offered his hand.



"Max, you play pretty well for an old man,"he smiled.



"Brandon, thanks, I think." Brandon shook Max's hand. "This is John," he introduce them.



Max began to introduce some of the other guys. He offered them some water as they engaged in some light conversation.



"Do you come here often?" Max asked, looking at John.



"I usually stick to light weights and the whirlpool and I swim laps," John grinned.



Max nodded, "And you?" He asked Brandon



"Oh, I'm just a guest in your windy city, I'm from upstate New York."



"Are you girls going to play or gossip?" Tim called as he tossed the ball towards Max.



The game quickly resummed and continued for about another hour with only a couple brief breaks. After the game broke up, Brandon and John decide to go take a swim. After several long laps, John pulled himself out of the pool and wrapped a towel around himself. He lay down on the bleacher looking like he was going to fall asleep.



"John are you ready to go?" Brandon sat nearby leaning towards him.

John yawned as he sat up.



"Come on, I'll drive. We can go back to the hotel and you can get a nap before the ladies return." Brandon asked as he helped John to his feet. They quickly changed and Brandon drove back to the hotel.

~~~~~~~~~~



Once inside the hotel room, John headed for the kitchenette looking for something to drink. After getting a glass of water he noticed the carafe of cold coffee on the counter.



"This todays?" John asked, holding it up towards Brandon.



"Yeah, from this morning. I can order some fresh if you'd like," he offered.



"No, this'll be fine." He poured a cup and heated it in the microwave.



John sat at the table and sipped the hot mud as he tried to revive himself.



"Come on, we still have plenty of time for you to get a nap," Brandon commented as he dumped the rest of the old coffee.



He leaned down as he brought his lips towards John's. John pulled back and took another gulp of the hot drink. Brandon just watched him for a minute and turned towards the room.



"Well, I'm going to go lie down for a while, suit yourself." Brandon was becoming very frustrated with John's moods. One minute he seemed fine and the next he seemed to want nothing to do with anyone.



John sat at the table for a few minutes. Brandon had gone into the room and left the door open. From where he was sitting he could see Brandon clearly. He began to think about how ridiculous he was acting. He knew that the lack of sleep was not allowing him to think clearly. He was glad that Brandon and Veronica had come and so far, he was trying to have fun. He was also looking forward to tonight and yet he was really very tired again. These few hour catnaps just weren't getting it and neither was this bitter crap that he had insisted on trying to pour down himself. He finally got up and went in and joined Brandon on the bed.



"Hey, Baby, I was hoping you would change your mind," Brandon smiled as he rolled over lying along side John.



John felt himself beginning to respond as Brandon moved closer and began whispering dirty thoughts in his ear.



"Baby, I am sooo hard I ache. Can you help me out here?" Brandon cooed.



John found himself sliding his hand under Brandon's shirt as he raised up to take it off. John sat up and did the same. Standing up to take off his shoes, pants and boxers, he turned around to find Brandon doing the same. Brandon pulled back the covers and lay on the opened bed, begging John to come closer.



Brandon and John's lips met as they lost themselves in a deep and passionate kiss. John eagerly pressed his swollen groin against Brandon's hard body, grinding himself against him. Brandon swept his mouth along John's jawline and worked down his neck. Wiggling down toward John's chest, Brandon lavished attention on John's nipples until he began to squirm wildly under his touch.



"God, Brandon, please," he shoved his head towards his groin. Brandon laughed moving back up to John's mouth.



John pulled away and rolled himself onto Brandon straddling him, getting a burst of loud laughter from Brandon. John suddenly became angry, feeling like Brandon was laughing at him, he pulled himself off the bed and went into the bathroom slamming the door violently behind him.



John leaned against the wall and slowly slumped to the floor. 'He was laughing at you John, he doesn't care about you, he's only using you, you'll always be alone, John.' The voices continued to taunt him as he sat on the cold tile.



Brandon quickly got up and found John sitting on the floor with his knees against his chest and his head in his hands. He sat on the floor next to him.



"John?" Brandon sighed. "I'm sorry, I......."



"You what.....?" John snapped back, pulling himself up and walking out. He sat on the edge of the bed, not feeling like getting dressed but not wanting to just sit there in his birthday suit either. He lay down and curled up under the sheet.



Brandon slipped under the covers behind him and kissed his shoulders. "John, I'm sorry, truly I am. He draped his arm over John's body and held him close.



'Why was it so hard to believe that anyone could truly care for him?' John thought as he took hold of Brandon's hand. John and Brandon lay silently together until they both soon fell asleep.



To be continued…………

"This is a nice car." Abby giggled, making herself comfortable in the fancy sportscar that Veronica and Brandon had rented. "What kind is it?"



Veronica laughed. "Who cares?" She climbed in behind the driver's seat. "That's Brandon's job. All I know is I look fantastic behind the wheel!" She laughed as she lowered the convertible top, Abby laughed along with her. Veronica was so comfortable with who she was that Abby found herself envying the older woman.



"You don't think we're going to freeze our asses off with the top down?" Abby commented, feeling the chill immediately. Veronica started the engine and pulled out of the parking garage.



"Hon, what is the use of paying a small fortune to drive a fancy car like this unless you can flaunt it?" She said, so carefree. Abby laughed as her hair blew around her face. This woman was definitely fun!

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"Veronica? Do you know where you're going?" Abby asked, watching Veronica drive into a part of town that Abby rarely saw.



"Don't you worry your pretty little head, my dear? I know all the best shops in all the major cities. What the hell do you think I do when Brandon goes to his seminars?" Veronica found the street she wanted and pulled up in front of one of the nicest clothing shops in Chicago. Abby knew she couldn't afford anything in here.



"Uh, Veronica? I know you mean well and all but there are some nice places to get a dress over at the mall." Abby said. Veronica turned the car off and looked at Abby.



"Honey, this day is for you. We are going to go into these shops, buy the fanciest dress that costs a months salary, then we're going to go to some little tea shop, have ourselves a snack and spend some time at the day spa over there." She pointed. "We will end up over there," Again with the pointing. "And get our makeup and hair done before going back to the hotel and changing for our night out. Remember, fantasy, hunger, and trust. First, we start with fantasy." She simply stated, touching Abby's cheek with her soft hand. Abby couldn't help but to smile. She'd never had another woman treat her so well and she enjoyed it.



"Okay, but my Visa isn't going to like this much." She shrugged. Veronica gave her a look.



"Abby, would I insist that we come here if it wasn't my treat? Please, Dear. Both Brandon and I are physicians, specialists, with our own practices in upstate New York. Money is not a deciding factor in the amount of fun we're going to have today. Today is for fulfilling your wildest fantasies." Veronica climbed out of the car, handing her key over to the valet as she flirted openly with him.



"Take good car of my baby, won't you?" She purred to the acne-covered young man.



"Uh, of course, ma'am. I sure will." The kid stammered. Abby saw her door was being opened for her and she took the hand that was extended for her.



"Why, thank you." She said, feeling pretty. The young man smiled and nodded, making sure she was safely out of the car. Veronica joined her on the sidewalk and hooked her arm with Abby's.



"Hon, these people don't know you from Adam. Just walk with your ass tight, your tummy tucked and act like you've got a wad of cash up your snatch." They both laughed as they walked towards the first dress shop.



They walked in the first door and Abby instantly felt out of place. Suddenly her pants were too worn or her sweater was too bare or her shoes were too scuffed. She didn't have the arrogance and aura of wealth like Veronica did. Even in casual dress, Veronica looked like she was worth a million bucks.

She was just a simple nurse. And 'not that pretty of one' at that. Luka's words still stung like a razor. She nervously pulled a stray piece of hair back, wishing she were at the local K-mart instead of standing amongst all these high-class women.



"Abby, let me introduce you to Ginger. She's going to find you a dress for dinner tonight" Abby smiled nervously at the way too perky saleswoman.



"Okay." The woman looked over Abby's petite frame. "Let's see, small frame, we'll have to accentuate the small bust," The woman said as Abby laughed.



"It's not that small." She crossed her arms over her chest.



"It's not the size, it's how we use them, my dear. Tonight you are going to use every inch of your perfect skin to reel that man of yours in until he's at your feet, begging you." Veronica laughed, checking out a beautiful sequined gown. "What do you think of this?" She held it up and Abby smiled.



"Very pretty. I could never pull anything like that off but you, well, you would look radiant in it." She said. "Me, scrubs is about as fancy as I get."



"Haven't any of those handsome doctors at that hospital ever taken you out for a night on the town?" Veronica asked as they looked through the store. Abby laughed.



"Luka liked to hang out at a bar around the corner from his apartment. No, come to think of it, John is the only one that has ever taken me any place fancy." Abby joked.



"Where did John take you?" Veronica didn't know there had been such a rich history between them.



"Oh, he was so sweet. He had this fundraiser thing to go to, some kind of big event held at this museum and his family wouldn't let him come without a date. Well, his date cancelled and he started begging all the nurses. Well, most of them look at him like he's their son because he's practically grown up at that hospital and I didn't have anything better to do." She shrugged. "He came to pick me up and I've got this pant suit on. I open my door and there he was, in a tux and flowers! I was so embarrassed. The only fancy dress that I owned was this pink, goofy thing that I'd worn in my ex-husband's sister's wedding. God, I hated that dress! But when I came out, he was the perfect gentleman." She explained. Veronica could hear the passion in Abby's voice when she talked about John and she just wanted to slap the petite nurse up side the head to knock some sense into her. They belonged together and to Veronica, it was so obvious.



"Did you go to the fundraiser?" Veronica smiled, thinking about how they must have looked. Abby smiled also, having her own set of memories.



"Uh, yeah. I ran in to my ex-husband, too. He was there with his new girlfriend. John helped me let the air out of his tires. It was so funny! We sat in this limousine, watching for Richard to come out after the whole event was over and find the tires flat!" She chuckled, remembering it. "I can't remember when I've had so much fun as we did that night." She said thoughtfully.



"Sounds like the two of you have had some good times." Veronica noted.



"We have." Abby nodded. "He helped me change Luka's fish tank. I had accidentally cracked it while I was picking up some of my stuff after Luka and I had broken up. I left the key inside the apartment when I went back to work not thinking about it when John and I went back to replace the tank. I had to climb up his back to reach the fire escape. I guess one of the neighbors saw us and called the police. John was so worried that we were going to be arrested for breaking and entering but Luka showed up and refused to press charges."



"Well, that sounds like an exciting adventure," Veronica giggled at the thought of the two of them in such a situation.



"Oh, that was nothing compared to the time when my bipolar mom went off her meds. Maggie had a breakdown, and locked herself in a hotel room in Oklahoma. I couldn't get a flight and John arranged an immediate flight, took a few days off work, bought the tickets and we flew to Oklahoma to get her. He drove the whole way back while I took care of Maggie." Abby smiled. She hadn't realized that it had been John with her through some of her toughest times in the past few years.



"How long have you two been friends?" Veronica asked. Abby thought about it.



"Let's see, back two years ago, I was a med student, having been an OB nurse for a few years. He was one of the residents that used to help me because my resident was off finding all the attractive women and trauma cases. He was the one that showed me how to use an intubation camera and he was with me when I lost my first patient in the ER." A shudder ran over her skin. "But as far as friends go, I don't know. I mean… I was the one who caught him injecting Fentanyl and turned him in." Abby shrugged.



"And what do you think would have happened if you hadn't said anything?" Veronica asked, looking into Abby's eyes.



"I don't want to think about it." Abby shook her head and saw a black dress that caught her eye. She held it up. "What about this one?" She asked. Veronica stood there smiling, nodding her head.



“That, my dear, would make men swoon.” She held the dress up against her, trying to get a better visual image. “Go try it on.” Veronica insisted.



“Oh, I’m sure it’s really expensive.” Abby groaned, looking for a price tag. Veronica stopped her.



“Dear, go try that beautiful dress on and don’t worry about it. This is my fantasy.” She smiled, Abby shrugged but returned the gesture.



A few minutes later, Abby came out of the dressing room and stood in front of the mirror. She was amazed that a simple dress could make that much of a change in one’s appearance.



“Oh, that is lovely.” Veronica cooed, running her hands down Abby’s sides from the front, clearly stroking her in admiration. “You will have him doing more than begging at your feet in this dress.” Veronica made Abby turn around. While the straight black dress looked quite simple from the front with its high collar and clingy material, Veronica was totally sold upon seeing the open back with the severely plunging waistline. Silky material pooled slightly at Abby’s lumbar, baring her flawless skin while accenting the nicely shaped curves of her backside. Abby’s arms were bare and she looked so delicate yet independent in the dress.



“Do you think it’s too much for dinner?” Abby did like what she saw in the mirror. Even more than the dress she’d bought for the auction.



“Dinner or no dinner, you have got to get this dress. Can you imagine John’s face if you came out of your room dressed in this? He’d pop his zipper in an instant!" Veronica laughed, handing Abby a short, midnight blue velvet dress. “Here, try this one on.” She urged.



“Veronica, my bra is bigger than that whole dress!” She kidded. Veronica smiled widely.



“Oh, Abby, next, we go for the lingerie!” She exclaimed, having made a decision. She carried her own red velvet dress into her dressing room.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Both girls walked out of the lingerie shop loaded with bags and boxes, laughing up a storm. They had actually managed to find several dresses and not wanting to have to decide between which one, they bought them all! Then of course, they had to have new shoes and sexy lingerie to make the fantasy complete. Abby had picked out several bra and panty sets, much nicer than her regular cotton bikinis and camisoles she usually wore and Veronica even had her thinking maybe she would get the chance to show them to John. She still didn't think it would happen tonight but Veronica seemed so sure.



They did manage to find a few things for the guys while shopping. Veronica found a few sweaters and a tie for Brandon while Abby found a pair of suspenders as well as a pair of sunglasses for John.



They loaded up the car and headed back out. Abby felt like a princess!

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Veronica opened the heavy doors and entered the day spa, escorting Abby inside. She checked in at the front desk and was immediately greeted by a young woman in a white pantsuit. Veronica held out her arm as she escorted Abby down a long decorated hall. They followed the woman into a rather large room furnished with two massage tables and a large privacy curtain.



Veronica stepped behind the curtain and began disrobing as she invited Abby to do the same. There was a row of ornate hooks and a few hangers on a clothes rack along with a couple of padded chairs. After they hanged their belongings, Veronica reached inside a small cabinet, which held several extra-large bath sheets in pretty pastel colors.



Veronica handed one to Abby as she wrapped her own naked body with another. Veronica's eye fixated on Abby as she leaned down and kissed Abby's inviting lips. Abby kissed her eagerly as she slid her hand along the top of the Veronica's towel where it had been tucked in, pulling it loose and tossing it onto the chair behind her.



Remembering how sweet Veronica had tasted, Abby wanted more as she kissed and nibbled at her nipples until they were firm. Abby's hand found Veronica's wet warmth as she continued to lavish attention on Veronica's breasts, kissing and licking down her front until she was on her knees, her finders deep inside as her lips met Veronica's clit.



"Oh! Abby, You are just too good at this," Veronica moaned as she bucked against Abby's fingers. Abby knew exactly where the most intimate spot inside a woman was as she found the tiny pea of Veronica's G-spot. Her assault quickly sent Veronica over the edge has she cried out her release, collapsing back into the chair as Abby embraced her. After her heart had stopped pounding against her chest, Veronica got up and traded places with Abby. Sitting her on the edge of the chair, kneeling in between her legs, she quickly and feverishly began lapping at Abby's flowing juices. She pushed her tongue deep inside Abby's moist opening and rubbed her fingers against her clitoris as Abby held her firmly in place, bucking her hips against Veronica's mouth.



"Oh, yes, yes," Abby groaned desperately trying not to scream out as she felt the waves crash, sending her completely over the edge. She brought Veronica's mouth up to hers as she kissed her hungrily, wanting to taste herself on Veronica's lips. They both pulled apart and giggled as they heard a soft knock at the door and woman's voice ask if they where ready.

~~~~~~~~~



Covered only by their towels, they lay on the massage tables. The room was slowly becoming steamy. Abby couldn't place the scent but she knew she liked it.



"Comfortable?" Veronica asked, her masseuse kneading her thighs with her strong hands.



"Mmhm." Abby mumbled, totally relaxed as her shoulders turned to putty.



"Brandon has a wonderful masseuse back home. You should ask John about him sometime. Nathan took good care of him while he was visiting with us." Veronica said, hearing Abby giggle.



"The more I hear about that week, the more I wish I was a fly on the wall." Abby turned her head to the side and watched Veronica.



"I'd love to have you and John up to the estate some time. I think you'd love it." She offered.



"I don't know what makes you guys think John's going to do anything except be the perfect gentleman tonight. That man is not in love with me." Abby shrugged. Veronica sat up so quickly, her bare breasts totally exposed, catching the masseuse off guard.



"Abby! Can't you see it? Honey, I make a damn good living at this and that man is so in love with you, it hurts him." Veronica stated, her breasts bouncing with her emotion. Abby couldn't help but giggle.



"Veronica, can you ask them to stop looking at me?" She tried to hold her laughter in but was losing the battle. Veronica looked down at her erect nipples and back to Abby, and smiled.



"Just making my point." She said, both girls now completely overtaken by a giggle fit. Veronica stood, dropping both her towels and standing there, completely naked and proud. "Enough massage, time for waxing!" She exclaimed, pulling Abby off the table.



"Waxing?" Abby's voice cracked.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Abby relaxed in the chair, her body satiated. The make-up artist began applying the eyeliner.



"This sure beats the hell out of the last activity." She mumbled, the makeup artist holding her jaw still. Veronica laughed.



"You don't want any unwanted hair getting in the way tonight." Veronica giggled.



"John is not going to agree to this thing you both have planned." Abby said, sure he would never do it with her.



"My dear, you haven't yet seen how hungry that man can be." Veronica giggled. Abby raised a recently plucked eyebrow.



"How do you do this?" Abby had to ask. "I mean, how do you and Brandon bring this out in people?" She didn't understand how it had been so easy for herself to be seduced and it sounded like John had been the same.



"You only live once." Veronica stated. "I love my husband more than anyone I have ever met and I know that he loves me. We are each other's best friends and we are totally honest with one another. We love to have sex and we occasionally need other partners to fulfill those desires." She shrugged. The two makeup artists that were working on the women exchanged glances. This conversation was getting good.



"John and Brandon bonded while they were in Atlanta. Nothing happened but for months after coming home, all I heard about was John. I really didn't know him other than from listening to Brandon. Well, I know my husband well enough to know when he has a crush. Anyway, Brandon finally mentioned where John worked and I remembered that my old college roommate was working there. I contacted her and we began working on a plan to get the two men together.” She explained as the stylist came in and began with her hair.



“Who’s your friend?” Abby casually asked.



“Do you know Kerry Weaver?” Veronica asked. Abby jerked up so quickly, the girl doing her make-up smeared mascara all down her cheek. “Oh, shit!” Abby mumbled.



“I’m so sorry.” The young girl stated, trying to wipe the smudged makeup but only making things worse. Abby laughed.



“Don’t worry about it. That was my fault.” She told the girl. “Weaver was your roommate?” Abby exclaimed, shocked that stiff old Kerry could possibly be friends with someone as carefree as Veronica.



“Yeah." Veronica nodded. "We’ve kept in touch over the years, you know. A card here and there, a letter every couple months, lunch occasionally. But getting John together with Brandon, now that is the most fun that I've had with Kerry since college.” Veronica said, Abby was dumbstruck.



“So, Weaver was involved in the whole fundraiser night?” She asked. Veronica smiled. Abby shook her head. “And she knew about the trip to see you guys?” She asked, her voice getting slightly higher with each question. Veronica was just smiling and nodding. “And what you guys had planned for John?” She finally asked. Veronica giggled, sipping on her ice tea.



“Kerry knows what kind of a reputation she has between the staff there. She knows people think she gets a bit tough at times,”



“More like cutthroat! She’s a barracuda!” Abby exclaimed, trying to picture the two women together. Veronica laughed.



“Oh, Honey, get a few shots of bourbon down her and she’s just like the rest of us girls.” Veronica joked. Abby got a strange twinkle in her eye.



“Does Kerry Weaver know about what John and Brandon did?” She asked.



“Only what John has told her. She doesn’t know Brandon very well but she knows me well enough.” Veronica teased. Abby shook her head.



“So, Weaver helped get him laid after all. I knew it! See, he was really nervous when he first won the bid and Weaver asked me to try and calm him down. That sneaky woman,“ Abby smiled.



“That sneaky woman cares about our Johnny very much. She’s the reason we’re here this time. She called us and told us he was withdrawing again. She still blames herself for not realizing he had a problem after his attack and I guess she got to know him pretty well while they lived together. She really does love him and wants him to be happy.”



Abby sat for a few minutes thinking about Kerry. While she was tough and at times seemed unfair, she did always seem to have a soft spot for John. He could get away with a bit more than most and Kerry always seemed to change her tone when speaking to and about him.



"We had to go to this stupid sexual harassment seminar. See, this dominatrix came in to the ER with this 'client' done up in total leather. I mean, head to foot leather. Well, once we sent him to X-ray, we, Susan and I, found her little bag of toys." Abby explained.



"Susan was the woman John was dating?" Veronica asked. She saw jealousy in Abby's eyes.



"Yes. Well, Susan and I started pulling things out and playing with them. Luka and John were both being bores so we started throwing things at them and this new med student who was with us. Well, needless to say, Weaver caught us. She yelled at all of us but she never once yelled at John. Well, she did yell at him when he tried to get her to let the med student go but other than that, nothing. We got banished to attend this seminar and I guess, in retaliation, someone ended up putting this strap-on in her locker. All day we tried to get the responsible party to admit it but no one ever did. Susan told me that after the day was over and the two of them were breaking up, he admitted he was the one who put it in Weaver's locker. You'd never get him to admit it though, not on your life!" She laughed to herself, shaking her head.



"John and Susan broke up after a sexual harassment seminar? Veronica questioned, thinking the circumstances were a bit strange. Abby was blushing.



"Susan told me she told him to go after me because she knew he was in love with me or some shit like that." Abby brushed it off. Veronica's eyebrows rose.



"Really?"



"She didn't understand. John never came after me for anything." She shrugged.



"So, I assume John doesn't like being treated differently." Veronica pondered. Abby shook her head.



"No, he just wants to fit in. I think that's one of his problems. He always stands out. You know, because of his family or because one of the many horrible things that has happened to him or by the fact that he's the baby of the ER. He's been there longer than almost anyone. He's grown up there and I think so many of the nurses especially treat him differently. He's judged harder than anyone else but at the same time, gets away with more. Does any of this babbling make any sense?" Abby realized she was going on and on about John.



"More than you know." Veronica nodded.



"So," Abby looked in the mirror at her perfect makeup job. She was pretty, even if Luka didn't think so. Then she looked at her mop. "What should I do with this?" She ran her fingers through her hair. Veronica got a huge smile.



"Why don't you do something fun, like curl it all around and leave it loose. You want to have it free for where we're going." She winked.



"Won't a nice bun be better? Maybe a French twist? I mean, shouldn't I get something fancy done? Aren't we going to some stuffy restaurant?" Abby said, her tone clearly stating it was not her first preference. Veronica shook her head.



"Oh, no, Dear. John has already made the plans and I think you'll be pleasantly surprised."



"Oh, really?" Abby said, thinking this may turn out to be a fun night yet.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"Jing-Mei, one of the other residents, well, John calls her Deb but her name is actually Jing-Mei," Abby told Veronica as they navigated through the streets of Chicago.



"How does he get Deb from Jing-Mei?" Veronica asked. Abby rolled her eyes.



"I don't really know. They went to med school together and I guess he's always called her that. I think she used to go by Deb, but even after all of the times she's corrected him, he still calls her that. Well, anyway, she told me that they used to play pranks on each other all the time. She told me about this one day when the plumbing was screwed up and they had these portable potties set up in the bay. John was out there, you know, using the facilities and Jing-Mei pages him 911. All the nurses were watching from the window as he tore out of there, still zipping up his pants. He went sliding across the ice and practically slid right into the ER. He slipped right in front of the door right on his ass!" They both laughed.



"Oh, that must have been a sight!' Veronica giggled.



"She said it was classic. She said he had this long trail of toilet paper stuck to his shoe, too!" She laughed.



"Oh, my." Veronica laughed heartily.



"But he got her back. Jing-Mei told me she had this patient who was complaining of stomach pain," Abby had to stop and hold her stomach. "And John turned in the guy's X-rays. She took one look at them and it was of a stomach with all these nails! She thought her patient swallowed a bunch of nails!" Abby laughed so hard; she was crying her perfect makeup right off.



"Don't tell me? John?" Veronica asked, not realizing what a playful side John had. Abby's giggles subsided.



"Yeah, she said he taped a bunch of nails to his T-shirt and the X-ray was of him. It's been a while since he did anything like that. He has a great sense of humor." She said, calming down slowly. She smiled to herself, thinking about the chocolate chip cookies and Nicole. John could be such a tease.



Veronica turned down the street that John had written on the secret note, looking for the address. She was a bit surprised that John would know about a place like this as she found it.



"Oh, look." She pointed, nonchalantly. "A costume shop. You want to go inside? We still have a while before dinner." Veronica's eyes widened as she tried to look very interested.



"Now why would I want to go to a costume shop?" Abby giggled, thinking Veronica was absolutely crazy.



"Hm, you don't think John would be surprised to come home after working the night shift to find you cleaning the living room in some skimpy French maid's costume?" Veronica teased. She hoped it wouldn't be too hard to talk Abby into it. She looked at the young nurse



"Sure, let's go check it out," Abby shrugged.



Veronica cheered herself. That was smooth.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"Oh, lookie, Abby! Look at these Victorian dresses. This one would look fantastic on you. You should go try it on." Veronica urged.



"You've got to be kidding?" Abby laughed at her. Veronica stepped directly in front of her, placed her fingers seductively on Abby's lips and whispered, "Dear, remember fantasy? Trust me, I know how to fill your man's hunger." Abby was mesmerized.



"Is he any good?" Abby heard herself ask. Veronica moaned, smiling.



"Honey, he is definitely worth all of this primping and preparing. John is pure emotion while in bed, interested in only one thing," She paused, running her finger across Abby's lips, down her chin and neck. "You."



Abby heard herself gasp slightly, not sure if the tingling she felt in her loins was from thinking about being John's whole focus as they made love or the way Veronica told her. That was when Abby's eyes focused across the room. She smiled.



"Look what's over there." She pointed, Veronica still so close to her. Veronica turned around to see a 1940's swing dance display, complete with dresses and Zoot suits. Abby walked towards them.



"Did you know John loves swing?" Abby said quietly, amazed at her luck. Veronica followed, smiling to herself.



"Why, no, I didn't." She lied. Abby was in another world.



"One of the reasons we took that apartment is because of the large living room area. Sometimes, we move all the furniture aside and dance. He's been teaching me several different steps he knows." Abby fingered the soft flowing materials of the flowered dresses, so simple yet so feminine.



"Really?" Veronica encouraged.



"He is such a great dancer. He hears the music in a way I had never thought possible." She was still smiling. "He feels it, you know? Not just hears it but feels it inside, in his bones. I've never seen a person hear music in quite that way. He feels the emotion, the beat, the way music was meant to be heard. I guess his proper upbringing taught him how to appreciate it the way it was meant to be appreciated." She giggled to herself. "Sometimes, we lie on the wood floor and he puts the speakers facing the floor. We lie there, just feeling the beat." She blushed, realizing she was totally lost in her and John's world. Veronica was just looking at her, smiling tenderly.



"You have it bad for him, don't you?" Veronica asked. Abby just blushed deeper.



"I guess I do." She admitted. "I have since the first time I saw him." Abby admitted.



Veronica could tell. She just couldn't figure out why those two couldn't see what was right in front of them.



"Have you ever kissed?" Veronica asked. Abby began looking through the dresses again.



"Uh, only little pecks, nothing really passionate, nothing with, you know, tongue." She giggled.



"Why not?" Veronica was curious. Abby looked up at her and shrugged.



"Because it would mean too much."



To be continued…………

Both girls returned to the hotel, laughing and carrying bag after bag. The place was quiet when they came in.



"Oh, God Abby. That is so funny!" Veronica laughed loudly, setting her bags on the table. "Oh, boys, we have gifts for you!" Veronica called out knowing that they were around somewhere.



Not getting an answer, Veronica went into the bedroom to find the guys crashed out on the bed. Brandon was spooned up against John's back with his arm draped over him. Only a sheet covered their obviously naked bodies as Abby giggled from the doorway.



Veronica knelt on the bed behind Brandon and whisper in his ear. "Brandon, wake up, Baby." She stuck her tongue in his ear as she continued her attempt to wake him.



He stirred slightly, rolling onto his back and found himself face to face with his wife.



"Come on, Brandon, wake up 'Sleeping Beauty' and get out here," she nudged.



"K," he replied clearing his throat. Veronica left them alone to get up.

~~~~~~~~~~



"Do you think they... you know did something?" Abby whispered as Veronica closed the bedroom door.



"Oh, I'm sure they did, Hon." Veronica laughed as they waited for the guys to join them.



John and Brandon stepped into the living room in bathrobes, as they looked at all the bags that the woman had with them.



"Did you girls buy the entire downtown?" Brandon forced a joke. This would be a good night, even if it killed him.



"Oh, Darling. I found the most wonderful sweater for you." Veronica wrapped herself around her husband and gave him a passionate kiss. John looked away and he glanced quickly at Abby.



"Hey." She said, gently setting her bags down. She felt shy in front of the couple again and could tell it also made John uncomfortable. She pulled out a small package. "Here. I know you lost your other pair." She handed him the new sunglasses. He took them and smiled, suddenly feeling very insecure. Veronica and Brandon were totally involved in each other. Brandon's hands firmly grasping Veronica's ass.



"Thanks." John cleared his throat, hoping the other couple would realize that they were not in the room alone. Abby and John looked at each other nervously. "So, did you find a dress?" He asked, trying to see into the bags.



"Actually I found a few. Veronica insisted on getting all of them." She smiled. John cocked his head at her and smiled.



"You look pretty. I don't think I've ever seen you in makeup before." He said. "And your hair is cute, too. Get it cut?" he dared to step closer, touching a soft curl.



"No, just curled," Abby blushed. Neither Richard nor Luka would ever have noticed that quickly.



"We spent the afternoon at this spa. Got massages and a sauna and facials, you know, the works." She explained. He just stood there nodding. "Veronica mentioned that her and Brandon have a private masseuse. She told me that he took care of you while you were there. Said he was quite good." She teased lightly. John just smiled and bobbed his head.



"Yeah, pretty good." He said. "So, when do I get to see your dress?"



"Oh, it's fashion show time, Abby my dear," Veronica said as she handed a couple of shopping bags to Abby. Picking up the rest of the bags, Veronica informed the men of their next plan. "Okay, boys. I took the liberty of renting the room next door so that we can get dressed and ready in proper style and not have to deal with your beard trimmings all over our new clothes." Veronica led Abby towards the door, picking up several bags along the way. "You boys go get cleaned up." She teased as she pushed Abby to the door.



Once again alone, John fumbled nervously with his new sunglasses.



"Those are nice. The same style as what you had when you came to stay with us?" Brandon asked, just trying to get him to talk.



"Yeah. I lost my other pair on the El one night while coming home. I'm surprised she remembered." He smiled, looking inside the box. They were the exact same ones as he'd lost.



Brandon came towards John and he cupped John's face. John tried to pull away but Brandon held firm.



"Hey," Brandon said a bit harshly. John looked into his eyes. "I just want to make sure we're okay. Are you and I okay, John Carter?" Brandon asked, never breaking eye contact. John laughed at the use of his full name.



"Yeah, Brandon Montgomery, we're okay." He smiled. Brandon leaned in for a gentle and loving kiss. John did kiss back but it was quick.



"Good. Because I care about you too much to have you mad at me." The older man said. John wrapped his hand around Brandon's neck and pulled him in for another kiss, this time with more emotion.



"Me, too." John said after they broke apart. Brandon laughed and headed for the wardrobe.



"We'd better get ourselves changed because these women want to be taken out on the town tonight!" Brandon laughed. John pulled his suit out and laid it across the bed.



"I've arranged to have Gamma's limo tonight. Algier is doing the driving." He smiled.



"I don't know. Remember what happened the last time the three of us got in a limo." Brandon teased and this time John laughed.



"It's what happened after that that is still clear in my mind. So, do you want the shower first or should I?" John asked, heading to the bathroom.



"We could always share the shower." Brandon suggested. John immediately shook his head.



"That is probably not a good idea. My poor boys are having enough trouble keeping themselves settled down. I don't need to see you dripping wet with soap covering your body." John talked more to himself as Brandon laughed.



"Well, then. Why don't you jump in first? Sounds like you could use a cold one, anyway."



John carried a clean pair of boxers into the bathroom and shut the door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Abby stood nervously in front of the mirror looking at her naked body. Veronica, also nude, smiled and came up behind the petite nurse.



"Veronica, do you think I'm pretty?" She asked, her hands running across her stomach. Veronica moaned.



"Oh, yes, my dear. Very pretty." She reassured.



"Luka didn't think so. He said I wasn't that pretty. That I wasn't that special." Abby scrunched her brows at her reflection.



"Well, he must have been crazy." Veronica kissed Abby's shoulder. "I happen to know that next door, there is a man that thinks very differently."



Abby shrugged. "Not really. I mean, I can see why he'd be interested in you. You're voluptuous. He's dated some beautiful women over the years, ones that I can't even begin to stand near without feeling like trailer trash. I mean he goes for blondes, beautiful blondes with culture and money. I'm just a plain, poor, simple, not so pretty nurse." She shrugged.



"Why'd you stay with nursing? I thought you had said earlier that you were in med school and John was your teacher." Veronica asked. Abby laughed.



"He was only one of many. I was in med school but my ex-husband decided he didn't need to pay for the tuition anymore, even though I supported him while he went. Anyway, I just can't afford to continue." She admitted. Veronica looked at her for a moment.



"Were you good at it?" She asked. Abby smiled.



"You know, people think I'm crazy for not going back to it but not every one of us is cut out to be a doctor. Nope, I've actually thought of this a lot. I made an okay doctor, you know, good bedside manner, good diagnostic skills, but to be the one that people look to for making life-altering decisions, that's not me. I am, however one hell of a nurse. I know what needs to be done, how to do it, a step ahead of the doctor. I get to hold the babies, the scared kids and I get to hold a man's hand when his ego won't let him cry from the pain, no matter how horrible. I get to see them when they come in and walk them when they leave. I like nursing. I'm good." She said proudly. Veronica was sold.



"I'm sure you are." Veronica began pulling dresses from the bags. Abby looked in one.



"Oh, no." She said, disappointed.



"What, dear?" Veronica asked.



"The swing dress. We must have left it in the car. I was so looking forward to putting it on and showing John. I figured it might put him in a better mood." She explained, finally resigning and heading for the bathroom. Even though her hair and makeup was done, she needed to take a quick bath just to wash Veronica's scent from her body.



"You can show him tomorrow, can't you? He's going to be surprised enough when he sees you in that evening dress of yours." Veronica called out after her as she began hanging up the many dresses that they had bought in the closet, laying out the ones for tonight.



"Veronica, I wanted to thank you for getting the dresses for me." Abby said. She was actually very grateful. Now, maybe she'd have a choice for what to wear if someone asked her out. Veronica leaned close and whispered.



"John paid for them." Veronica smiled.



"What?" Abby exclaimed; the look on her face was pure shock.



"He handed me his credit card right before we left. He said it was important to him even though I told him it wasn't necessary." She said so casually. Abby was taken totally by surprise. They had spent money like crazy. She didn't even have a clue as to how much they may have spent.



"Oh, I've got to pay him back." Abby mumbled, stepping into the tub. Veronica laughed.



"You haven't had many men buy you things, have you?" She teased. "Look, don't say anything to him. He did the gentlemanly thing and I think it's sweet. He obviously didn't want you to know so don't tell him. Maybe after you two have been married and have lots of babies you can tell him." Veronica smiled, joining her in the tub.

~~~~~~~~~~~~





John had just slipped his dress shirt on when he heard a knock on the door. He looked at his watch and smiled.



"Right on time as always." He said as he led Algier into the room.



"I'm paid to be on time, Dr. John." The family chauffeur stated dryly. He had known John for many, many years and was happy to help with his plans.



"That you are." John handed him a suit bag and smiled. He also handed him a set of keys. "Okay, it's the red sports car parked in the lot on the south side. Veronica parked it right by the entrance. Their stuff should be in the trunk." John handed Algier a piece of paper with the license plate number on it.



"You certainly are going to a lot of trouble." Algier commented. John nodded.



"Algier, this may be the most important night of my life," he smiled.



"Yes, sir," Algier nodded.



John closed the door behind him. Brandon came out of the shower wrapped in just a towel.



"Clothes done." John nodded, feeling happy that so far, every plan was working out perfectly.



"You don't think she has any clue?" Brandon asked, putting out his tux.



"I hope not. I don't think so." John shook his head, buttoning his shirt.



"So, I heard you say this might be the most important night of your life." Brandon smiled. John was just a bundle of emotions and nervous energy as he had been the entire day.



"Well, it is important. I figure this may be my only chance. I appreciate you two helping me out." He shrugged, tucking his crisp shirt into his slacks.



"No, problem, John. We're getting something out of this, too, you know." Brandon stated, smiling.



"I know," John nodded.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"So, how do I look?" Abby asked, standing fully dressed in front of the mirror. Veronica slipped her shoe on, and stood and smiled.



"You look just like you stepped out of a fashion magazine. You are going to knock his socks off." Veronica ran her hand down Abby's bare back.



"I can't wear a bra with this dress, that's for sure." Abby giggled, feeling like she did look good, after all. Veronica giggled, putting on a pair of dangling diamond earrings.



"Just less to take off later. So, which panties did you pick?" Veronica lifted the hem of Abby's dress. Abby blushed. "Mmm. Good choice. Bare back and bare ass." She smiled at the G-string Abby had on.



"No panty lines." Abby giggled. They heard a knock on the door.



"You ladies ready? Our reservation is in one half hour." Brandon called through the door. Veronica looked at Abby.



"You ready?" She smiled approvingly.



"Sure," Abby nodded.



Veronica opened the door and Brandon and John came in.



"Oh, Darling, you look almost good enough to eat." Brandon checked out the red dress Veronica wore. It was so low cut in the front, much of her chest showed. He kissed the exposed flesh.



John stood and stared. He was completely frozen in place looking at Abby. She stood nervously, watching for him to respond. Veronica giggled.



"John, breathe, Hon." She told him. He let out an exaggerated breath.



"You look, uh, you...wow!" He stammered. Abby smiled and turned around, showing him the extremely low cut back. "Oh, Christ." He groaned quietly. Abby could tell he approved. "You, uh, oh, Abby. That dress makes you look, oh, shit. And we're supposed to go out to dinner?" He asked, smiling widely. He approached Abby. "We could just skip dinner." He teased, having her turn around again. The bulge in the front of his trousers reassured Abby she'd picked the right dress.



"Not on your life, Dr. Carter." Abby teased, feeling more special and much prettier than she ever had in her life. "I want to go out and dance." She smiled, aware of his hands gently on her waist.



"Ok, whatever you want." John mumbled, very captivated by her appearance.



"So, you think he'd do just about anything right now?" Brandon whispered in Veronica's ear. She laughed.



"Anything," she nodded.



"Okay, you two. Time to go downstairs. Our limo awaits." Brandon stated, helping Veronica with her shawl.



"You arranged a limo?" Abby whispered, looking into John's eyes. He nodded.



"Algier is off tonight, he's helping out," John replied, still staring at her face. His eyes were twinkling the way Abby knew they did when he saw a pretty woman. She felt very special thinking that he was looking at her that way.



"Well, then, we should go," Abby blushed, picking up her wrap. John took it from her hands and placed it gently over her shoulders.



"Dinner." He nodded, pulling his eyes from Abby's figure.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



They were immediately seated in the exclusive restaurant, Charlie Trotter's and they began going over the menu. John kept stealing glances at Abby, amazed at how beautiful she looked. He's always thought she was pretty but this was more on the stunning side.



"There are no prices on this menu." Abby whispered to John, who had scooted his chair a bit closer to her. He had his arm draped over the back of her chair and he looked at the menu she was holding.



"Do you like seafood?" He asked, talking low and very close to her. Abby felt like the luckiest woman in the entire restaurant. After all, the most handsome man in his tux was snuggling very romantically up to her!



"Uh, some," she answered, giggling like a teenager.



"You know what? I just realized how little I know about you. About the only thing I know is that you like your coffee black, and you like pie." He smiled, his thumb gently caressing her bare shoulder.



"And sundaes," she laughed.



"Right," John nodded and went back to looking at the menu. "How about chicken? Or steak? I hear the steak is wonderful." He commented. She looked over the list.



"Antelope? People really eat antelope?" She exclaimed.



"Some people I know have such well-rounded tastes." Veronica stated, placing her bare foot directly on John's lap. He jumped and laughed.



"Well, I like to try new things." He smiled back, reaching under the table and caressing her foot. Veronica purred.



"Why don't you try something new Abby, but stay with things you are familiar with. I'm sure you'll find them very much to your liking." Brandon suggested. Abby smiled feeling a sock run up her leg.



"Hm. Something that feels like a good friend yet is prepared in a new and exciting manner?" She teased back, purposely not looking at John but she could see his smile out of the corner of her eye.



"We are talking about the menu, aren't we?" John joined in the playful banter.



"Oh, there is just so much on the menu tonight, John. So 'hard' to make a decision." Veronica made direct contact with John's swollen groin. He shifted in his seat and cleared his throat.



"You okay there?" Abby noticed his shifting.



"Uh, I'll be fine," he blushed. Abby took her hand and placed it on his thigh, slowly running her palm and fingers up towards his groin.



"Good, wouldn't want you to be uncomfortable," she smiled, meeting his eyes. She had noticed that his eyes had taken on a deeper shade of brown.



"Oh, I'm perfectly fine, not uncomfortable at all," he smiled as he licked his lips.



"Not yet," Brandon said under his breath. They all laughed as the waiter approached the table.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Through the entire meal, Abby ate every bite as seductively as she could, knowing that John was watching her intently. She was so nervous that she wasn't even hungry but she did enjoy making him squirm.



They shared a wonderful meal, talking about their childhoods, becoming doctors and in Abby's case, a nurse. They talked about family and about the patients they dealt with daily and they laughed.



"Well, John. I will say, this was a wonderful choice in dining." Veronica stated, her foot having long since been removed from his lap. They had all eaten their fill and were relaxing over cups of coffee.



"So, where's the dancing?" Abby asked. John's eyes lit up.



"What?" He asked.



"Where's the dancing. I thought we were going to do some dancing tonight and I don't see anyone else dancing," she explained.



"We're going someplace else for that," John smiled mischievously. "You guys almost ready?" He asked, the older couple, who were lost in their own romantic world. Brandon looked up and pulled back to reality.



"What?" He asked, not having heard a thing since Veronica began fondling him under the table. Veronica giggled.



"Dancing?" John asked, putting out his cigarette. He'd shared one with Abby after their meal.



"Sure." Brandon smiled, pulling himself away from Veronica's talented fingers.



"Let us freshen up in the ladies room, won't you?" Veronica stood, holding her hand out for Abby. John slid his chair back and stood, helping her pull hers out she could get up. Abby giggled at the old fashioned-ness of it.



"Hurry back," John kissed Abby's hand.



"Oh man, I am in trouble tonight," John exclaimed once the women were gone.



"Yeah, Veronica is in heat." Brandon chuckled. "I may knock the table over when I stand up with the woody I'm sporting." He admitted.



"Oh, I'm doing pretty good on my own, my friend. But I didn't have your wife's wonderful fingers stroking me throughout dinner." He laughed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"What were you doing under the table?" Abby giggled as they made their way to the bathroom.



"What do you think I was doing?" Veronica had such an exquisite look of lust on her face.



"Did you have him pulled out?" Abby giggled, she couldn't believe the nerve this woman had.



"Completely. Some of the best sex I've ever had has been in very public places." She said, reapplying her lipstick.



"Oh, my." Abby blushed. "I've always wanted to do something like that but I've never had the nerve. The closest I've ever gotten was slipping into an empty exam room with Luka while at work." She said.



"And now you can do that with John," Veronica suggested. Abby shook her head.



"Probably not, Luka still works there. John and he don't exactly get along. Besides, I don't want to hurt Luka," she said. Veronica looked at her puzzled.



"You are over this Luka, aren't you?" Veronica asked. Abby immediately nodded.



"Oh, yeah, with Luka, well, it was about convenience. With John, well, he's just so emotional, it's different," she explained.



"He's your passion." Veronica stated. Abby looked at her for a minute, thinking.



"That's it. That's exactly it." Abby began to speak with her entire body as the idea took on meaning. "With Richard and Luka, it was comforting. With John, I'm terrified but because I feel so much when I'm with him. John 'is' my passion, both frightening and totally encompassing at the same time. I can't think when he smiles at me. When he cocks his head when he's listening hard to what I'm saying, well, my knees go weak. When he's hurting because of a patient or something, I feel his pain. When he's sad, I'm sad. When he gets excited, I just have to look at him to feel the same way. My God, Veronica! That's it." Abby exclaimed feeling like she'd had a revelation.



"My, goodness you have it bad." Veronica remarked as she applied some perfume between her breasts.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



The men were standing by the front doors when the women returned. John held out Abby's wrap and placed it across her shoulders. Their eyes locked and she blushed.



"What?" He asked. She just nodded her head.



"Just girl talk." She said as they followed the older couple from the restaurant.





To be continued…………

The two couples settled into the back of the limousine, Brandon and Veronica on one side and John and Abby across from them. As soon as they began driving, Veronica's hand again found Brandon's groin as they moaned and fondled each other openly. Abby was leaning against John, who had his arms wrapped around her as they watched the couple get involved. John laughed nervously, looking away.



"So, how about them Bulls." He joked, making Abby also laugh.



"Dinner was nice." She said, trying not to listen to the moans of pleasure.



"Yes, it was." John said, finding his eyes drawn to the couple. His eyes were watching Veronica caress Brandon's groin. He shifted uncomfortably as his erection became obvious in his slacks.



"I would never have expected you to be so open to this kind of stuff." Abby teased him, also noticing how tight John's pants suddenly were. He cleared his throat.



"Kind of hard not to get in to it when it's two feet in front of you." He bantered back, whispering painfully.



"What would you do if I reached over and grabbed you like that?" She pointed to Veronica's hand. John groaned and laughed.



"Probably have a heart attack," John laughed.



"Not until you take me dancing, Mister." She playfully teased.



"I already bought you dinner," he returned. They were having such a wonderful time. Abby shook her head.



"Nope. Tonight is going to cost you to get to do that with me." She smiled wickedly. John's eyebrows were raised high on his forehead.



"Do you know what you're getting yourself into?" He asked.



Abby smiled, "most definitely."

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"So, John, when are we going to get there?" Veronica asked, having stopped fondling Brandon, wanting him to need it bad by the time they returned to the hotel. John opened the window leading to the front.



"Algier, how far are we?" He asked.



"Very soon, Dr. Carter," Algier answered. John raised the window again.



"Should be any time." John told the group.



"I can't believe your grandmother let Algier help you with this." Abby giggled.



"He's off tonight," John smiled. "Gamma doesn't know," he admitted, looking like a guilty child caught with his hand in the cookie jar. They all laughed.



They felt the car come to a stop. John and Brandon fixed their shirts and the girls got their purses ready. Algier opened up the door.



"Here we are, Dr. Carter," Algier said. The men got out first, John unable to stop smiling. He was getting excited. Brandon assisted Veronica from the car and John held out his hand for Abby. As soon as she emerged, Abby looked around, dumbfounded.



They were standing in front of what looked like an old warehouse, all murky, and looked to be shut down. Abby looked out on the other side of the car and was confused when she saw rows and rows of parked cars.



"What the hell?" Abby looked around feeling very overdressed. She looked at John, who was grinning from ear to ear.



"Remember, fantasy, hunger, and trust?" He whispered, drawing her hands close to his chest. She looked into his sparkling eyes and nodded.



"This afternoon was the fantasy," Veronica stated, Brandon's arm wrapped firmly around her shoulders.



"The hunger is already there." Brandon said.



"Abby, now I need to know," John whispered, bringing his lips just centimeters from hers. "Do you trust me?" He asked. She felt the chills run down her arms as she felt his breath on her lips.



"Yes," she replied as he kissed her for the first time.



They melted together, mouths opening for one another as they pressed their bodies against each other. Abby's arms wrapped around his neck and he pulled her to his chest. She could feel his hands slide down her naked back, one hand slipping in the back of her dress. Abby felt him smile against her mouth as he felt her choice of undergarments. John pulled away, laughing.



"My, God, Abby, you are trying to give me a heart attack, aren't you?" He bent over, trying to control and hide his alerted organ as Abby laughed.



"What did I say about dancing, John Truman Carter?" She teased, touching his shoulder.



"Give me a sec, okay? I can't walk, much less dance right now." He took several deep breaths. Veronica winked towards Abby.



"Okay, let's try this again," John laughed, taking Abby's arm in his. "I want to see those in the light, okay?" He whispered as he led the group to the door. Abby was still smiling at him.



John stopped in front of the door smiling at Abby one more time, and then pushed the door open.



The sounds of loud music spilled out into the parking lot as they made their way inside. Abby looked around like she was at a carnival. She suddenly realized where they were.



"A dance hall? A swing dance hall?" She exclaimed, getting excited, John was smiling ear-to-ear.



"Yup," he stated.



"But I'm not dressed for this kind of dancing. Veronica and I even bought dresses," She babbled. Algier handed John a hanger with Abby's new dress still wrapped in dark plastic.



"You were looking for this?" John winked.



"How did you know?" Abby squealed, getting very excited.



"You think I'd go to a costume shop?" Veronica laughed, letting Abby know the whole thing was planned.



"You didn't," she laughed at John, who just nodded.



"I believe we would all be a bit more comfortable if we slipped into something a bit more, let's say loose?" John winked, handing Veronica her dress and a bag with their shoes and Brandon his suit. "Thanks, Algier. I owe you," John smiled, taking his own suit from the chauffer. Algier chuckled as he waited for them to go change.



"The ladies room is, I believe this way," Veronica said as she looked around until she saw the sign indicating the restrooms. She led Abby towards a door marked 'Dames'. John and Brandon also went to change.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"I cannot believe you were in on this whole thing," Abby scolded playfully as they hurried into a changing area.



"But this is what the entire evening is all about, fulfilling fantasies." Veronica replied as they both began laughing. "Honey, John came up with this whole idea. I guess it's time to see if all that teaching he's been doing has done you any good." Veronica smiled.



"I cannot believe this," Abby laughed, setting her hanger onto a bench. This area was obviously used for changing into the 'proper' attire for dancing. The room was complete with lockers and all.



"John says he used to come here quite frequently. He says he loves it, but hasn't been here in awhile." Veronica explained while removing her dress right in the middle of the dressing room. Abby was still a bit more reserved. She carefully pulled out her new dress and looked at it.



"Think John will like it?" She held it up while Veronica slipped her dress over her head.



"Honey, he is so wrapped around your finger right now, you could come out there naked and he'd take you out on that dance floor anyway!" They laughed at the graphic image in both of their heads. Abby put on her simple yet feminine red dress.



She looked beautiful. The dress was flowing, just to her knees with a full skirt when she twirled yet shaped to her frame in the bodice. Veronica had on a simple yet old-fashioned flowered dress that showed off her tanned and long legs. Abby did a twirl in the mirror and realized she had forgotten something.



"Oh, Veronica. I can't dance in this dress. Look." She held up her dress to reveal her behind. Veronica laughed and reached into the bag.



"Now, do you really think I'd let you come here without some sort of protection? You're saving that for your man." She handed Abby a pair of red spandex biker shorts. "This is what everyone else can see." She laughed.



"Thank you," Abby blushed, taking the shorts, and putting them on under her dress. After changing their shoes, they packed up their belongings to send out with Algier and headed out to meet the men.



Both men stood watching the dancers on the huge dance floor. Abby could see John bouncing to the music much in the same way she'd seen him do at home when he got excited about some song. Veronica cleared her throat and they both turned around.



All four stood speechless. The women looked fabulous and the men, dressed in their Zoot suits, looked equally handsome. John wore a dark blue pinstripe jacket, complete with padded shoulders, a crisp white silky dress shirt, and a pair of very loose trousers and of course, suspenders. He also had one of the loudest ties on that Abby had ever seen and an equally loud scarf was hanging down his chest. He tipped his fedora her way.



"Ma'am," he winked. "I do believe that dress is in need of something." He smiled and walked up to her, bringing something out from his pocket. He began to pin it on the front of her dress at the collar line.



Abby looked down and saw a sparkling diamond encased brooch.



"This belonged to my great grandmother," he said quietly as he pinned it carefully as not to poke her skin.



"It's beautiful," she said, touching it softly.



"So are you," he smiled, extending his arm.



Brandon and Veronica also looked the part. Veronica had bought Brandon's outfit while she and Abby had been shopping and he looked right out of the history books. He had pants similar to Johns, a cream-colored shirt, plaid vest, jacket and another brightly colored tie. Instead of a scarf, Brandon has a silk hanky tucked loosely in the breast pocket of his jacket.



The music was so loud that it was hard for anyone to talk but talking was far from anyone's mind. John led them to a table and he backed up onto the dance floor, enticing Abby to follow. Abby looked at Veronica and giggled.



"Go for it, honey," Veronica urged. Abby smiled and as soon as she came within reaching distance, John swept her off onto the dance floor, bouncing and moving like a professional jitter bugger.



John had taught Abby so much she soon discovered. She was able to keep up with him and soon found herself barely touching the ground as they hopped, jumped, and swung throughout the room. They had been dancing together for months so they knew one another's bodies very well and could read each other's actions.



Abby found herself screaming and laughing as John swung her around his hips, over his back and back down in front of him. He looked so happy and she couldn't remember a time where she felt so complete.



"Is your back okay?" She yelled as they faced each other, hands tightly entwined.



"Don't worry about my back." He nodded. He pulled her towards him and pushed her back out, twirling her, making her skirt flair up around her hips. He pulled her close again.



"You didn't take them off, did you?" He asked, kicking their legs in unison. She knew what he was talking about without him even having to state it.



"Under the shorts." She laughed as she gracefully slid under him and found his hands waiting for her on the other side.



Brandon and Veronica watched in amazement, as the couple knew every move and each step the other was taking. They danced with a newfound energy, with the knowledge that they would be together.



"You want to get out there and dance, Darling?" Brandon asked. Veronica shook her head.



"I'm young at heart dear, but that is ridiculous!" She laughed as they joyfully watched the other two on the dance floor.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"Oh, my God!" Abby yelled breathlessly as they made their way back to the table. Both their faces were dripping in sweat and they were panting but smiling.



"You remembered every move I showed you," John laughed, taking the water Brandon held up for him.



"You two look fabulous out there," Veronica smiled. John held out his hand to her.



"May I have this dance?" John asked. Veronica laughed at him.



"Not unless you plan on playing doctor tonight," she stated, only half serious.



"Hey, Johnny!" A young man called, patting John on the back. "May I dance with your partner?" He winked at Abby.



"That's up to her." John nodded, giving Abby permission. Not that she needed permission, per say, but he wanted to make sure she knew he didn't mind. He smiled. "Go on," he urged. The young man held out his hand and Abby accepted.



John watched Abby return to the dance floor and that annoying pang of jealousy raised its ugly head once again. She's just dancing, he told himself. Harmless dancing. He watched the young man place his hands on Abby's waist. Thinking he was crazy for feeling this way, he quickly searched the room for familiar faces; he spotted a group of women he'd danced with before.



"Any of you ladies care to dance?" He asked as he approached the group.



"Oh, Johnny, we haven't seen you in so long." One of them leaned close to him.



"Of course, handsome. I'd love to dance," A beautiful blonde took hold of his hand and allowed him to lead her to the dance floor.



Abby watched John from the corner of her eye. He had been so willing to let her dance with another man that she thought maybe all this sexual energy she thought was happening was just one sided. She knew that when she spotted him with the blonde, she felt insanely jealous. If it had been her, she would never have given him permission to dance with another woman. She'd have wanted him to dance with her and only her for the entire night.



John walked his dance partner back to her table.



"Thanks, Betty," he gave her a kiss on the cheek. She was still holding tightly onto his arm, having other plans.



"Johnny, can you walk with me out to the parking lot? I'm sure our girlfriend won't mind." She ran her finger up his thigh.



"She's not my girlfriend." John snapped quickly, surprising even himself. Betty cooed and pressed her body up against his, playing with his hat.



"Well, anyway. She's still out there and I need to get something from my car." She flirted openly. John saw Abby still kicking up her heels, looking to be having a wonderful time without him so he figured why not?



"Sure," he replied. It was dark outside and he didn't think she should go out there alone. Besides, her curvaceous body felt mighty nice against his. Betty was a beautiful girl and a whole day of sexual tension was beginning to get to him. Besides, Abby didn't seem that interested in him anymore. Her current dance partner was doing his own job of placing his hands all over her body as they danced. Brandon had even gotten farther with Abby than he had. Besides, he would just walk Betty to her car, nothing wrong with being a gentleman.



Betty wrapped her hand in his and ran her fingers up and down his arm as they walked. Brandon looked up and saw John leaving the building with a fantastic blonde in a short skirt.



"Uh, oh. I think we have trouble," he mumbled. Veronica looked in the same direction.



"What is he doing?" She demanded quietly.



"Getting some physical release?" Brandon asked as he stood. "Look, I'm going to go out there and dance with Abby, keeping her on the dance floor. Give him a couple minutes to get it out of his system and go out there and drag his ass back in here. He's too close to having what he wants to screw it up now," Brandon instructed. Veronica nodded, watching the door. Brandon made his way to where Abby was dancing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Veronica waited about fifteen minutes and then headed out to the parking lot. Just as expected, John had Betty backed up against the wall, one of his hands was grasping her bare ass as the other pressed against her breast. Betty had her legs wrapped around his pelvis, John thrusting against her as they kissed deeply. Veronica cleared her throat, causing John to pull back from Betty, clearly caught. Betty whimpered.



"John, we need to talk," Veronica stated. She watched as he looked at her guiltily.



"I'll see you later, Betty," he said as she fixed her dress.



"Who's she, your mother?" Betty ran her hand across the front of his trousers. She had been so close to actually getting them open. John pulled away and he began pacing.



"What are you doing?" Veronica asked, trying not to sound like she was accusing him. Betty sighed loudly and John apologized with his eyes. She went back inside.



"Abby is doing fine in there without me," he said, exasperated.



"What the hell are you talking about, John?" Veronica was shocked. "You told her to go dance. She's having fun. John, if you didn't want her to dance with anyone else, then you should have said something."



"I couldn't," he admitted, his entire body flustered. He'd gotten pretty far with Betty, but not as far as he wanted and he was in pain. He needed to be needed that way and he just didn't see it happening with Abby. Veronica could see the desperation in his eyes.



"Why don't we get the other two and head home," she suggested. He laughed sarcastically.



"No, thanks, Veronica. I'm frustrated enough right now. Look, this whole night has been one huge build up to something that isn't going to happen, wasn't meant to happen and shouldn't happen. Why don't you just go back in there and let me take care of myself, okay? Abby's having fun. Let her enjoy herself and tomorrow we'll wake up as friends," he said.



"Is that what you want?" Veronica asked. He looked at her for several moments.



"No, but that's all I'm going to get, Veronica. Abby is my best friend and I'd rather her be my friend than for her to be disappointed with me or mad at me. Just let her dance and enjoy the evening. I'll get over this…this frustration and come back in there and join you. Just leave it alone, will you?" He tried explaining. Veronica shook her head.



"No, I will not." She stated so clearly it even took John by surprise. "Do you love her?" She asked.



"What?" He asked, looking at her stunned.



"I asked if you love her." Veronica repeated.



"Abby?" He asked.



"No. The slut I just caught you with, of course, Abby. Do you, John Truman Carter love Abby?" She stated, hoping to make herself quite clear. He paused, hoping to make the right choice.



"Yes. I do, very much," he finally admitted out loud.



"Then get your ass in there and get her." Veronica smiled. "Take her away from all those other guys and go claim her as yours. Tell her what you feel, John. She needs to hear it from you and no one else," Veronica urged. He stood there looking at the door for several minutes.



"You're right," He nodded, suddenly feeling very much in control. "You're right. I love Abby Lockhart and I'm going to tell her." He smiled at Veronica and then started for the door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Brandon and Abby were on their way back to the table, laughing when John and Veronica returned. John pulled Abby to the side.



"I need to talk you," he said quietly. Abby had flashes of his relapse, when he made her go into the drug lockup to tell her he'd taken two Vicodin. She looked at him, worried.



"What's wrong?" She asked, searching his face for a clue. He looked so nervous.



"Look, I have a confession to make," he started nervously.



"Did you take something?" She assumed that was what he was going to say. He looked frustrated.



"Do you think that's all there is to me?" He asked, suddenly feeling the anger build up inside. "You know what? Forget it!" He threw his hands up. "Just forget I said anything, okay? If that's all you think, that I'm just a junkie and that's all I ever need to talk to you about then just forget it!" He stormed off to the other side of the room, quickly disappearing into the crowd. Abby stood there, speechless.



"What the hell got into him? Abby snapped as she turned to Veronica and Brandon. Not waiting for an answer from either one Abby picked up her pack of cigarettes from the table and stalked off out the front doors.



Brandon and Veronica stood with their mouths opened not believing what they just witnessed. Neither one of them understood how everything suddenly got so out of control.



"What just happened?" Brandon whispered to Veronica.



"I don't know, Hon," Veronica shrugged.







"Well, that went well," Brandon, stated, exhaling deeply.



"You know what?" She asked her husband.



"What, Hon?" Brandon asked, seeing how tired his wife looked.



"I give up, maybe they aren't meant to be together and I need a good fuck!" She exclaimed. Brandon couldn't help but chuckle.



"So do they!" He replied, pulling his wife closer. "So do they."

Brandon slid the key card into and the lock and opened the door of the hotel. Veronica immediately kicked off her shoes and removed her coat.



"That was really nice, thank you," Abby said, following them inside. John was the only one who seemed a bit hesitant.



"Who's up for a nightcap?" Brandon asked. John and Abby glanced at each other.



"Uh, no thank you," Abby said, feeling a bit embarrassed for her reasons for refusing. Brandon noticed her apprehension right away.



"Abby? It's just sparkling apple cider," he held up a bottle. "You do know where John and I met, don't you?" He asked, looking towards John to get some kind of indication of what he'd told Abby.



"Uh, the only thing he told me was you were a friend from Atlanta and Veronica was a sexual therapist. I figured he met you while he was there." She shrugged. Brandon looked at John strangely.



"I was in treatment the same time John was. We were admitted the same day and ended up being roommates for most of the 90 days." Brandon poured four plastic cups of cider and handed them around. Abby had made herself comfortable on the chaise lounger while Veronica stretched out on the sofa.



"John, why don't you sit down?" Brandon suggested. John still had his jacket on and looked like he wanted to leave.



"I don't think so, I was thinking about heading back home. Abby has to work tomorrow, don't you Abby?" John asked, his eyes pleading with her to leave. She shook her head.



"I'm not ready to go yet. I want to hear about Atlanta." She accepted the cider from Brandon. "Thanks."



John shrugged, reluctantly sitting on the edge of the sofa where Veronica sat. He kept his jacket on.



"So, you're a recovering addict?" Abby asked ignoring the clear fact that John wanted to leave.



"Yes, I went through a period where I was attending many social functions. Unfortunately, I also found my cocaine use was happening with and without the social excuse to get high. Atlanta helped," Brandon explained.



"Have you ever had a problem?" Abby directed her question to Veronica. She smiled back.



"Have I used? Yes but not for over a year now. Mine never became out of control like Brandon's did. I still go to his NA meetings with him." She nodded.



"That night I talked to you on the phone, you mentioned you were John's sponsor," Brandon asked Abby.



"Yeah," she nodded. "Seven years sober," she said, John made a noise. All three turned to him. "Is something wrong, John?" Abby asked. He looked bored.



"Oh, not much except I can get this any night at a meeting," he said. "Come on, Abby, I really want to go home." John tried pleading with her.



"And I really want to stay," she challenged back.



"And you're not really seven years sober," he shot back. She looked at him shocked he would say such a thing.



"You're right, John. I'm not." She turned back to Brandon and Veronica. "I 'was' six and a half years sober but after my next door neighbor began running to me for protection from her abusive husband, I began drinking again. I had a few relapses but am back on track," she said curtly.



"So," Veronica finally said after deciding the silence was deafening. "What's it like being a nurse?"



"Why don't you ask her what it was like in med school?" John snapped. Abby sat up abruptly.



"What the hell is it with you, Carter? You did this same fucking thing at the sexual harassment seminar!" She stood up, very angry.



"What did he do?" Brandon asked as Abby was not someone he thought he wanted to see angry.



"He gets this holier than thou attitude and brings up every mistake and failure in my life!" She yelled. John also stood up.



"And what the hell was it when you kept drilling me about how much my family was worth? You know that I don't like talking about that stuff!" He yelled. Brandon and Veronica just sat, watching and waiting.



"And what the hell was that duel supposed to prove?" She challenged.



"Duel?" Veronica asked.



"Yeah, this jerk here pulls out two swords and he and Luka end up having this stupid sword fight where they both got hurt!" Abby explained hastily.



"Who's Luka?" Brandon asked.



"I was staying with him after my attack," Abby said. John laughed.



"Only her ex-boyfriend!" John shouted.



"I was staying on his couch! Jesus! You were dating Susan at the time, for Christ sake, Carter! What business was it of yours? You were hardly talking to me at the time!" She yelled back. Veronica could tell exactly what was happening and figured that they had needed to have this fight for a very long time now.



"I never slept with Susan," John stated. This statement made the two of them look at each other.



Abby cleared her throat. "Am I the reason you never slept with her?" She asked, her voice cracking.



John looked away from her. "Can we just go home now?" He began to look around for her jacket.



"See? See what I mean?" Abby said exaggerated to Brandon.



"What?" John looked at the three, confused.



"Why do you always run when you're faced with something you can't handle?" Veronica asked, coming up to him.



John looked nervous. "I, uh, I don't know what you're talking about." He stuttered.



"I think you do," Veronica said. She reached for his face and kissed him roughly, forcing his lips open with her tongue. For a brief second, he fought her but then his willpower caved and he began to kiss back.



As their kiss intensified, Abby looked on, mesmerized. John was so desperate, so erotic, and so hungry for Veronica. Abby felt her stomach flipping over and over, wishing to God that was her being kissed like that. One of John's hands wrapped behind Veronica's neck as the other wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer.



Abby felt Brandon come up behind her, cupping her breasts. She leaned against him, feeling his strong body supporting her petite frame as his mouth brushed against her neck. She could feel Brandon's strong hands kneading her through her dress, brushing against her hardened nipples, pressing the full orbs as they swelled.



Suddenly, she had on way too many clothes. She watched Veronica remove John's jacket and felt very, very warm. Brandon seemed to have the same idea as she felt her dress slide up her body. Brandon lifted it from her head and proceeded to slide the shorts down her thighs, leaving her only in her G-string. She turned and her mouth met Brandon's as she moaned, feeling his dress shirt against her bare chest.



John was kissing down Veronica's neck as he slid his hands up her skirt, his other hand fondling her breast with his long fingers. He pressed on the stiff nipples, eliciting a deep moan from Veronica. He reached deep between her legs, finding heat and moisture.



"Oh, John." Veronica moaned. She pulled away long enough to take him by the hand and lead him into the bedroom. Once there, she sat back as he covered her body with his own, tasting her flesh, touching every nerve.



Brandon held Abby against his hips as she removed his shirt, exposing a tanned and sculpted chest. Abby found herself thinking briefly of Luka as she ran her hands up his pecs. She had a sudden urge to find out if the organ he had pressed against her stomach was as large as it felt and she began to loosen his belt. He was much taller than she so he was at a very comfortable level. She unzipped his slacks and his maleness sprang towards her, straining the material of his briefs.



John's hand had found his way between their bodies, searching for Veronica's core. He was still fully dressed, sprawled out on the beautiful woman that lie moaning beneath him. His fingers could sense the heat as he gently separated her folds to find her warm puddle of sweetness.



Abby led Brandon to the bedroom, not remembering that John and Veronica had already claimed the bed.



"It's okay, they can share." Brandon whispered into her ear as he urged her forward. Standing at the edge, he turned her around and again began his oral attack of her mouth. Abby felt as if he had a million hands, touching her everywhere that hurt, every crevice of her body in need. She lay back on the bed, her head touching Veronica's arm.



As soon as Veronica felt the contact, she raised her arm to reach around Abby's head, across her neck to her breast. John was kissing down Veronica's belly as his able fingers thrust up inside her core. Abby moaned loudly as Brandon's mouth opened her up, spreading her thighs as wide as she could. Brandon gently stroked her pillowy softness, coaxing more wetness from her soul.



Abby could feel Brandon and what he was doing to her but it was John whom she was staring at. As he made his way to Veronica's opening, he also looked up and their eyes locked. John began orally pleasing Veronica but he was looking at Abby.



Brandon became acutely aware of what was happening so he began to mimic John's movements. He thrust two fingers inside Abby as she groaned loudly, never taking her eyes off John.



John flicked his tongue against Veronica's clitoris, causing Veronica to shudder, but watching Abby's face. Her eyes were glued on him as he imagined it was Abby under his tongue, Abby who he tasted, Abby writhing under his mouth.



Veronica was getting closer, little squeals of delight coming from her each time John thrust his fingers. Brandon began to thrust deeper into Abby as she arched her back. Veronica's hand was still on Abby's breast as Abby heard herself moan. John's eyebrows rose involuntarily as he devoured Veronica's warmth. Veronica's thrusting soon became urgent, begging for more.



"Oh, God, yes, John, harder!" She begged as John thrust into her. Abby felt her own arousal jump a notch as she could see John's shoulder moving, increasing his speed. He sucked her clitoris with urgency, knowing what to do to bring Veronica over the top.



Abby began moaning, her husky panting becoming louder. Her head thrashing about on the pillow, each time returning to see John still watching her, the look in his eyes full of desire. Abby began to buck her hips towards Brandon's mouth.



"Oh, yes! Oh, God, Yes, Yes, Oh, John!" Abby screamed as her climax hit. Veronica's hit at the same time as her thighs clamped down onto John's drilling tongue. He continued to lap at her wetness, drinking her offering.



Brandon smiled as Abby's convulsions ceased, knowing he'd done well. He finally sat back on the bed, laughing slightly to himself.



"I'll remember that one, nurse Abby," he snickered. She pulled her attentions away from John and she kissed Brandon. Abby was doing all she could not to become so involved in John's after play treatment that he was giving Veronica and somehow find a way to apologize to the man who had brought her so skillfully to a climax.



"I am so sorry," Abby whispered as she kissed Brandon's face.



"Its okay, Abby." He smiled, understanding what was going on.



John quickly wiped his face on the sheet and kissed his way up Veronica's body. He smiled when he got to her face.



"Hello again," she cooed, kissing his nose. "Why Johnny, I'm afraid you have just way too many clothes on." She pulled at his shirt, which had come totally untucked.



"Uh, that's okay, Veronica. I'm fine." He pulled back, not allowing her to get a good hold of him.



"Is our friend there being obstinate again?" Brandon asked as Abby was curled up against him, gently stroking the swelling in his briefs.



"He doesn't want to get undressed," Veronica, whined playfully.



"It's okay, really." John blushed a she ran his fingers across Veronica's chest.



"Excuse me," Brandon said to Abby and he got off the bed. John rolled over onto his back as the girls scooted closer together on the opposite side.



"These two together are so hot, Veronica whispered in Abby's ear.



Brandon stood at the end of the bed and held out his hands. John hesitantly sat up and stood.



"Brandon, I don't want to do this," John said as Brandon's hand grasped John's very swollen groin causing him to moan softly.



"What is it, baby? Is it the scars?" Brandon whispered as he pressed their bodies together. He could feel John nod as their mouths came together. "Its okay, John. I'm sure Abby has seen scars before."



"I was there when he was stabbed. I was the one who found the knife. I think that John's just really very modest," Abby whispered to Veronica.



"Really?" Veronica grinned, thinking that that was not her observation of John.



"I've never seen him without at least a T-shirt and sweat pants," Abby revealed.



"It's all right, John, no one expects you to be perfect. We love you just the way you are." Brandon mumbled against his face. John was relaxing to his touch. Brandon slowly began to unbutton John's shirt, following each opening with his mouth.



John's neck became limp as his fingers combed through Brandon's hair. Brandon stopped to suck on a nipple, causing John to moan audibly.



"This is so much better than listening at the shower," Abby whispered, feeling her wetness increase.



Brandon slowly slid John's shirt off his shoulders, revealing a much thinner body than Abby remembered. She could see the scars on his back, now a faint and barely noticeable shade of pink. Brandon began to unfasten the slacks, getting on his knees before John. He slid the slacks down John's hips, revealing a pair of flannel boxers and a tight ass. Abby was the one to moan this time.



Finally free from his slacks, Brandon also removed John's socks, all while teasing John's flannel encased erection with his mouth. Brandon ran his hands up John's thighs as he noticed the wet spot on the front of John's shorts.



"This is a fine piece of manhood." Brandon joked as he slid the boxers off and tossed them out of the way. Veronica felt Abby's hand tighten on her thigh.



"He likes you," John chuckled quietly. Brandon was thankful to hear the humor return.



"Oh, it's not me, I'm afraid. It's what I do." Brandon took the head into his mouth and John gasped.



"When are they going to turn around?" Abby whispered.



"Hey, you two," Veronica giggled. "We're missing out on the show here." She stated. Both John and Brandon laughed.



"Oh, you ladies want to see what I'm doing, do you?" Brandon teased, nibbling up the length of John's penis. He playfully pushed John back onto the bed. Abby had only caught glimpses of the long scar that ran down John's front and she was surprised by its length. Her heart ached for all the pain he'd gone through.



Brandon sucked John's entire member into his mouth, moaning as he took his full length. Abby saw John's hips thrust for more. Veronica reached out and entwined her fingers around the back of his hand. He glanced up at her and smiled.



"Here. Hand them this." Veronica handed Abby a tube of lube and a condom. Abby looked at it.



"They're going to . . .” She asked, watching Brandon slide his mouth up and down John's length and she could see the most wonderful expressions flashing across John's face. She also noticed him clutching Veronica's fingers.



"You wanna talk hot?" Veronica purred. Abby noticed Brandon's outreached hand and handed him the required items. John had his eyes closed; concentrating on what Brandon was doing to his scrotum.



Abby was leaning against Veronica's chest, watching. While one of Veronica's hands held John's, Veronica reached around and began to play with Abby's labia. Abby gasped and John looked up at her, making sure she was all right. Once he saw the look of pure rapture on Abby's face, he looked down at Brandon. Brandon was placing a condom on himself. Still stroking John, Brandon smiled.



"You okay?" Brandon whispered. John nodded slowly.



"So far, so good," he replied. Brandon chuckled. Brandon took the tube of lube, having to remove his hand from John's body, and squeezed a large amount into his hand.



"May I fuck you up the ass, John Carter?" Brandon asked as he brought his fingers down and swirled them against John's puckered opening. The vulgarities of hearing him say that made the situation easier for John to handle at that moment. With his emotions so close to the surface, Brandon figured asking if he could make love would throw John completely off. John nodded, his muscles tensing. He tried hard to forget that there were other people in the room, just watching. It was easier when Veronica participated but now, he felt on display.



Brandon inserted one very slick finger and John's breath caught in his throat. He was nervous; probably more nervous than he'd been the first time Brandon had done this. It was going to take all his concentration to force himself to relax, while all he wanted to do was scream.



Abby could not believe how turned on she was. She was dripping, soaking the sheet from Veronica's manipulations. Her insides ached, watching Brandon's hand stroking John and his slickened fingers under him, knowing just what they were doing. Abby had quite a bit of experience with anal penetration and she was a firm believer. She lifted herself off Veronica and crawled towards John. She curled herself up around his head and touched his cheek.



"Hey, there," She whispered as he jumped in surprise from her touch. He tried to smile but Brandon had just inserted another finger, causing him to gasp and his eyes to close in pleasure. He moaned quietly.



"Relax for him, John. Relax so he can enter you without hurting you." Abby ran her finger down the side of his face gently placing light kisses on his sweaty brow.



"Oh, man," John exhaled loudly, feeling Brandon enter a third finger. It slipped in much easier.



"Abby, come here," Brandon urged; one hand was busy thrusting gently into John and the other reaching for her hand. Abby scooted to his side. Brandon placed her hand onto John's smooth, hard penis.



"Oh, fuck!" John gasped the second Abby touched him. His eyes were closed and his back arched as she leaned over and kissed his chest. Brandon took Abby's hand and led one of her fingers to enter with his.



Abby gasped as she entered his oiled cavity, he was so warm. She'd never had a guy willing to allow her to enter them, it was always the other way around and it was so much tighter than she had imagined. She slid her finger along Brandon's, twisting and exploring.



"Brandon, now, please now," John, begged, looking at Brandon between his knees. Brandon smiled.



"Okay, Abby, this one is all mine," He stated as they both withdrew their fingers. Abby moved up to John's chest, licking a tiny peak. John threw his head back as he arched, gritting his teeth as Brandon entered him completely in one strong thrust. Abby watched his face, first registering pain but then softening as his muscles loosened around Brandon's width. As his expression changed back to rapture, Brandon began to slide in and out of the tight crevice.



"Oh, God, John, you are so beautiful," Abby murmured, lifting her body partially onto his chest as she brought her lips down on his. He held the back of her head, his mouth welcoming her like a long lost love. Veronica moved behind her husband, fondling his balls and inserting a greased finger, matching her thrusts with those John was receiving. Brandon moaned loudly.



Brandon felt his climax rushing to the surface and this was one time in which he wanted to finish before John. He braced himself with John's knees pulled high over his shoulders and began to thrust hard and fast, clamping his hand around John's penis, stopping all flow of blood.



John pulled his mouth away from Abby, unable to breath. His throat was totally dry and his moans were constant, increasing with Brandon's assault. Veronica was very much involved in the action, having inserted several fingers into Brandon's rectum, meeting each stroke with equal strength. Finally with one final thrust, Brandon groaned loudly as his orgasm rushed through his body, shooting jet after jet of hot liquid, filling the latex safety net. Brandon pulled out and Abby again attacked John's mouth.



Before John knew what had hit him, he rolled Abby over, his sweat covered body enveloping hers as he pressed himself against her. They were both moaning and seeking; both were sharing a desperate physical hunger for one another. Abby's mouth kissed down his neck, tasting the sweat that was dripping from him as he moaned in her ear. Her hands clutched his body, trying to pull him into her own, needing to become one. John began to trail kisses down her neck, getting increasingly closer to the breast he cupped with his hand when he suddenly stopped, his breathing ragged, and his chest heaving. He laid his head on her shoulder and let out a deep, painful sounding breath.



"John, please," Abby begged, her hips thrusting against his. He rolled off her and threw his arm up over his eyes. Brandon and Veronica took immediate notice.



"I can't," he shook his head, still staring up at the ceiling, still unable to fully catch his breath. Abby rolled onto her side, draping a leg over his hip and grasping his erection.



"John, I want you," she said but he jerked away, rolling even farther from her touch, then getting up and sitting on the edge of the bed.



"I can't. I can't do this." He still shook his head, amazed at his own stupidity. How could he have possibly thought he would be able to follow through with this? How could he have thought he would be able to stay at this? How could he do this with . . . with her? He bent over and reached for his boxers. Abby spooned her naked body up around his back, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. She laid her head against his back and he could feel her hot streaks of tears.



He instantly turned to face her, pulling her into a loving embrace, stroking her head, soothing her.



"Shh, Abby. It's okay," he chanted quietly.



"What's wrong with me, John? What do I do so terrible that makes me hurt so badly all the time?" She sobbed. John's heart broke.



"Abby, you are more perfect than you know," he whispered, kissing the top of her head, rocking slightly. Abby sat up, wiping the tears with the backs of her hands.



"Then why can't you love me?" She begged for an answer. He stared at her for the longest time, his eyes connected with hers like they had been born that way.



"I do. That's the problem, can't you see that?" He whispered, cupping her beautiful face. "I can't make love to you because if I let myself touch you that way, I won't ever be able to let you go. Because I love you," He admitted. Abby sat up and pressed her lips against his. They melted together as one, as they had been meant to do for so long.



Brandon and Veronica carefully rose from the bed so as not to disturb the lovers and they left the room. Abby slowly lay back down, bringing John's body down with her. His hands were tangled in her hair as he kissed her deeply.



"John," Abby whispered his name as he began kissing down her neck. The kisses were no longer feathery light. They had taken on a sense of urgency, a desire that she felt in his hands and his mouth. Abby arched her chest up to meet his tongue, allowing him to slide a hand under her. John moaned as he kissed down her chest and this time, he continued to the swell of her breast. They both gasped as he took a taunt nipple into his mouth for the first time.



"John, please, I want to be yours, I need to be yours," Abby mumbled. She had never felt like this before. She had had her share of lovers in the past, even some very good lovers but with John, it was so much more than sex. This was from the inside, hurting kind of love. She didn't know if it was pleasure or pain. All she could tell was she felt.



"Oh, Abby," he groaned, releasing her nipple, feeling her heaving chest rise and fall. He laid his head on her stomach. "I love the way your skin smells." He smiled; kissing light feathery kisses around her belly button.



"You know what I like?" She asked, giggling as she stroking his hair.



"What?" He asked. He was lying between her legs, up over her pelvis, running his fingers up and down the inside of her thigh.



"I love to smell your towel after you shower," she admitted. He chuckled, kissing along her midsection. He smiled up again at her before going lower.



"Abby?" He asked, kissing down her thigh towards her knee. She spread her legs for him, enjoying just being worshipped this way.



"Yes, John?" She would say yes to anything he asked of her at this moment.



"This is more than tonight," he nibbled the sensitive area behind her knee. There wasn't a single centimeter of her skin that he hadn't touched, kissed, or tasted yet.



"Uh, huh," she moaned, never realizing how erotic her legs can be.



"I can't be just your friend anymore," he ran his mouth up the inside of her thigh. He could see her dripping from anticipation. Abby was raising her hips slightly, calling to him.



"I don't want you as just my friend," she informed him. He smiled, kissing up to her folds of soft flesh. He gently parted her with his fingers.



"Oh, God!" Abby cried as he ran his tongue along her length. She was convinced. The rumors were indeed true. John was good at oral sex. He lapped hungrily; tasting her, drinking her in as if he were dehydrated and she was the only pond. She bucked her hips up as he pressed his face deeper, his tongue entering her depths. "Oh, man, you're good, oh, John, oh, yes." She mumbled nonstop. He withdrew his tongue and inserted two fingers as he sucked in her clitoris. Abby screamed as the waves of pleasure hit her suddenly, John thrusting and sucking hard against her pelvis.



Once her involuntary jerking ceased, Abby realized he was still inside her, licking slowly at the remaining fluid. She tried to catch her breath, panting and whimpering from his caresses.



John held his fingers in her opening, feeling her clenching and unclenching, tightening around them. She was the warmest, smoothest place he wanted to be at the moment and he continued to taste her sweet syrup. He'd always known she'd taste good but he hadn't realized how good.



"Come here," she pulled him up, needing to kiss him. He withdrew with a kiss and joined her up on the pillow, still lying on top of her. Abby wrapped her arms around his waist as she kissed him deeply, grinding her hips up towards his. "I want to taste you." She moaned, reaching down and grasping his petrified pole. He moaned.



"Abby, I don't think I could handle that right now. I have been like this all day and the only place I'm going to get any release is inside you." He whispered into her ear. Abby felt the chills run across her body.



"Please," she begged, looking deep into his eyes. He smiled slightly.



"Do you have any idea how long I've loved you?" He asked tenderly. She blushed.



"John?"



"Yes, Abby?" He asked.



"Stop talking and make love to me," she urged, grasping him tightly. He moaned and began kissing her neck. While he did this, he reached up to the nightstand and grabbed one of the many condoms that lay there. He ripped open the pack and quickly put the condom on. He hurt so badly that he didn't want to lose control from the touch of his own hand. Abby's hand was still fondling his scrotum, massaging the area leading to his back door.



"Are you sure? There's no turning back now," he held himself firmly against her wet opening.



"I am surer than you know," she cooed, grasping his buttock with both hands, bringing him inside her.



John was as hard as an oak, swollen with a pain like he'd never felt.



"Oh, Abby," he gasped. He resisted the urge to shove in deep and hard but wasn't sure how long he'd take. He wanted to have her begging for him to stop before he'd allow himself. He slid almost all the way out, paused, then back in, experimenting with the strength, depth, position, and speed of which made her face change expressions.



Once finding an angle and depth that seemed to create the most pleasure for her, he boldly began to increase his speed.



"Oh, God!" Abby exclaimed. She screamed, holding onto him as if her life depended on it. Suddenly, her hips thrust forward up off the mattress, forcing John still deeper. "Oh, my fucking God. Oh, God." She gasped, all through her body sparks were shooting off.



John slowed his pace, allowing her orgasm to subside. He chuckled, watching her face, his own covered in sweat.



"Wanna go for three?" He kissed her chin.



"Oh, God, John." She said, hoarse and her throat dry. "How do you hold yourself back?" He smiled.



"I have my ways," he winked. He'd been through the entire medical dictionary in his mind and was somewhere around 'revascularization'. "So, Miss Lockhart, you up for round three?"



"There is no way, John Carter." She giggled, feeling his hardness all the way to her heart.



"Wanna bet?" He teased, thrusting slowly and deeply inside of her. Abby groaned.



"Oh, are you always this good?" She asked, meeting his thrust.



"Oh, always." He bobbed his head as he concentrated. Slowly, gradually, he made each thrust a separate action, pulling back and going forward with very purposeful movements. Abby thought she felt him swell inside her, filling her like no one ever had.



John was lost in his concentration. He held himself up on one arm, his other snaking between them until he found Abby's nub. Abby sucked in a gasp of air.



"Oh, John," She moaned loudly and he began massaging her, using her own moisture. His movements were increasing, rapidly getting stronger and more urgent. With his manipulations, Abby could not believe it when she felt another orgasm rushing to the surface. John thrust with a newfound abandon, as he had to withdraw his hand and support his own upper body weight. Sweat dripped off his nose, onto her chest and they both gasped for air.



"Oh, John, yes, oh, yes, now, please, yes," came a continuous string of commands.



"Oh, Abby. Yes, oh, God, Abby, I love you," John panted his own monologue. Suddenly, John felt Abby's inside walls contract upon his organ, which sent his own release coursing through his body like a lightning strike. He thrust over and over into her body, filling the condom until he was afraid it would burst.



Finally, they collapsed onto each other, John withdrawing painfully. He wrapped his sweat covered body against hers, kissing her softly as she cuddled against him. She noticed his entire body was trembling.



"You cold?" She asked, sliding her finger up his slick upper arm. He shook his head.



"Not at all," he kissed her cheek.



"Do you always shake like this?" She asked, her nursing side alerted. He chuckled.



"Only when it's good," he smiled, "and that was really, really good." He snuggled closer, both their bodies finally totally giving out. They slowly slipped into a deep sleep, still wrapped together as one.

Brandon and Veronica carefully rose from the bed so as not to disturb the newly founded lovers and they left the room. Gathering up their robes they quietly made their way to the living room. Brandon sat on the couch, his robe barely draped over his lap. He watched intently as Veronica laid hers over a chair and moved towards him. She leaned her naked body over and tossed his robe to the side and straddled his lap.



"So, you never did tell me, what did you guys manage to find to do all day?" She whispered softly in his ear before taking a lobe into her mouth and sucking lightly. Brandon moaned as she knelt up pushing her breasts towards his mouth, her body begging for his attention.



"Uh... we just went to a gym...," he gasped as she breathed in his ear. "Played some basketball..., he drew in a deep breath as she began to nibble down his neck. "And swam some laps.…" He kissed her with every ounce of passion within him.



"Go on," Veronica pulled back running her fingers across his chest.



"He was pretty tired so I drove him back here and we took a nap." Brandon managed to explain as he played tenderly with her breasts. His hands caressing and fondling her, bringing her nipples to harden pecks. She felt his hot breath on her flushed skin as he spoke.



"And that's all you two did?" She flashed him a questioning grin as she pulled back and looked into his eyes.



He leaned over and kissed a wet trail along her neck as be mumbled against her skin, pulling her back to him. His hand caressed her tenderly as they slid up and down her back.



"Yep, that's it." He continued to kiss up her neck until he reached her mouth, slipping his tongue hungrily inside her warm wet mouth. She deepened the kiss as their tongues dueled feverishly against one another's.



Veronica suddenly pulled back. "How did you two manage to end up naked together?" She questioned, curiously. She trusted Brandon explicitly but she knew that something was missing from his explanation.



Brandon slid his hands on her hips and leaned his head against the back of the couch. "Veronica, nothing happened because, he didn't want it too." Brandon blew out his breath. "Actually that's not true, he did want to, wanted it bad, almost too bad....but....," he paused momentarily watching her eyes drill holes through his.



"What happened?" Veronica held his face.



"I'm not sure, he was so hot, and so needy, but I found it amusing and I laughed... twice...he got angry and ran from me slamming the door of the bathroom behind himself. I found him sitting on the floor looking like a wounded child." Brandon hung his head and Veronica kissed the top of his head.



"But you two are okay now?" She asked concerned that they didn't still have something between them. John had been willing to have sex again with Brandon but she wanted to make sure that he wasn't doing it just out of need.



"I didn't mean to upset him, I think he was just so tired that he didn't know what he wanted." Brandon felt Veronica's forehead press against his as he explained how they ended up just lying down and falling asleep.



"Well, that explains why he was acting the way he did earlier." Veronica rubbed the back of his neck as she held his head against her bosoms. They sat for a few more minutes and just held each other silently. They both broke out in a fit of giggles as they heard Abby scream. “Oh, man, you’re good, oh, Jesus, oh, yes.”



"Do you think that John will ever get a chance to sleep again?" Brandon joked as they both smiled at each other.



Veronica got up and riffled through her evening bag. Waving a small red plastic card, she pulled her robe on and tied the belt, bringing the purse with her.



"Come on, Mister, let's leave these two love birds alone," she snickered as she reminded Brandon that they still had the room next door.



Brandon grabbed his robe and put it on as he followed Veronica. Peaking out the door he ran behind her not bothering to tie the belt. He had every intention of taking it off the moment they were alone.



As soon as they entered their new room, Brandon threw off his robe and grabbed Veronica by the waist, lifting her into his strong arms, he was on the way to the bed when he noticed the piles of clothing strewn all about.



Shopping bags littered the bed and the chairs, articles of new clothing lying across the bed. The clothes that Veronica and Abby had been wearing before they changed were just flung randomly across the room.



"Did you gals get a bit rambunctious?" He chuckled holding onto her tightly.



"Yeah, like how you just tossed your robe before the door was even closed, " she giggled as she swiped her finger along his nose.



"My Dear, I would like to take a bath," she smiled and kissed him.



"Your wish is my command," he teased.



"Really, well that's nice to know because I have a little fantasy of my own for tonight," she grinned wickedly at him.



"I think that would be a very good idea." He began to carry her into the bathroom when she interrupted him.



"Hon, I have a little surprise for you. It should be in one of our shopping bags." Brandon raised his brow at her in anticipation. He looked around again and frowned at the site of the many shopping bags.



"I hope that you know which one's it's in." His grin suddenly broke out into a boisterous fit of laughter as he put her down.



"What has gotten into you? Why are you being so silly?" She asked as she leaned towards him for a kiss.



Brandon pulled away, putting his hand up to his mouth to cover a deep yawn, "Just a bit tired I guess," he grinned wiping the tired tears from him eyes.



Veronica began to remove the clothes and shopping bags from the bed as Brandon helped her hang them on hangers. She found the bag that she was looking for and took Brandon's hand and led him into the bathroom.



"Grab that," she asked, pointing to a small portable CD player that was in the room.



Once in the bathroom, Veronica began to fill the tub, Brandon placed the CD player on the counter and plugged it in and waited for the water to fill.



She poured a generous amount of bath crystals into the water, turning it a wonderful shade of blue. "Go ahead and get in," she instructed watching him lower himself into the water while she began taking a few items out of the bag.



Brandon found the scent of it very soothing and relaxing. Veronica tied her long flowing curls up on her head holding them in place with a large scrunchy. She then took out a few small aromatherapy candles in very exquisite crystal containers. Unwrapping each one from it's box she lit each one, placing one on the toilet seat and a couple on the floor near the tub she left the others on the counter. She turned off the light and placed a CD in the player. Placing a bottle of scented bath wash on the ledge along with a soft bath sponge, she slipped her robe off very sensually, swaying to the mellow blues music before stepping into the bath opposite her husband.



Brandon picked up the sponge and poured the soap onto it checking out the name of the scent.



"Mmmm, 'Passion Flower,' he sighed as he smelled the soap. "Very nice!" He complimented her on her choice as he held her leg and rubbed the soapy sponge along it's length first one and then the other. He rinsed out the sponge and squeezed fresh water along her to rinse off the soap.



Taking one of her feet into his hand, he began to massage it, kneading gently as she moaned delightfully, fully enjoying the pleasures of his touch. He brought her foot close to his mouth and kissed along the bottom until he reached her toes, still massaging the bottom of her foot he sucked one of her toes into his mouth. Veronica elicited a small moan as she rubbed her other foot against his organ, feeling it swell against her touch. His hand ran along the underside of her upper leg as he leaned forward, reaching towards her inner thigh. Veronica placed her foot on his shoulder as he moved even closer, crawling towards her. His eyes were locked on hers as their lips met. His fingers played lightly around her most sensitive spot as her head fell back against the tub. She lifted her hips slightly to invite him inside her.



Knowing her desires, Brandon slipped his fingers up inside of her as his mouth met with hers. His other hand held tightly to the rim of the tub as she reached out and wrapped her long thin fingers around his thick shaft, stroking him gently as she slid her other hand to his scrotum, cupping his balls in her hand, feeling the weight of them.



She bucked her hips against his fingers as her pleasure grew. His tongue teased her mouth as he writhed under her manipulations. From this position she could easily reach him with both hands. It didn't take him long before he was asking her to stop.



"Roni, if you don't stop, I'm going to be finished before we ever get started."



"Oh, and we wouldn't want that, now would we?" She gasped as his fingers continued to bring her to the edge. He grinned wickedly as she wrapped her hands around his back, drawing him closer.



He licked along her neck and into her ear as she bucked fiercely. "Oh! God!" she cried out. Brandon felt her body shutter as her orgasm rushed through her. "Oh, Baby," she cooed she relaxed trying to catch her breath.



He sat up on his haunches, willing his body to relax and poured more soap onto the sponge as he massaged it around her entire body. Having her kneel up he ran it tenderly between her legs allowing her to dip back down into the water to rinse herself. Once she was completely cleaned she took the sponge from him and lavished the same treatment on him that she had just received. As soon as they were finished in the bath, Brandon pulled the lever for the water to drain and got out, getting a towel for both of them as he helped Veronica out of the tub.



After they dried each other off, Veronica went back to her shopping bag and produced another CD, which she put in the player but did not start playing. She reached inside her bag again and pulled out a smaller gift bag and handed it to Brandon, telling him to put it on and give her a minute to get ready.



"And don't start the music until you come out," she added picking up the bag and exiting to the bedroom.



Brandon smiled as he pulled out the small pair of underwear, if you could even call them that. It really didn't cover much at all as it was merely two jagged pieces of leopard print fabric attached to an elastic waist band that just hung over his privates. Reaching back into the bag, Brandon found a long leather necklace with imitation tiger's teeth hung on it and placed it around his neck. He laughed as he imagined what his wife had in mind.



Veronica dressed herself in a skimpy leopard print outfit that started on one shoulder and barely covered her voluptuous breasts. It was laced down the sides with leather thongs. It hugged her upper torso, flowing loosely past her hips, stopping at her thighs, leaving the entire sides of her legs exposed. As the skirt traveled down both the front and the back in a long jagged V shape and ended only a few mere inched passed her intimate areas.



Brandon blew out all the candles and placed them on the counter. He heard Veronica called out to him that she was ready. He turned on the music, turning up the volume; he laughed as the song began. He came out singing the words to her; leaving the door opened.



"In the jungle the mighty jungle the lion sleeps tonight." He grinned mischievously. "I do hope that you weren't trying to tell me something," he smiled as he crawled over her long slender body and growled like a big cat.



She giggled at him as she noticed the small piece of fabric hung along side his burgeoning cock.



"Oh and whatever do you mean by that?" She teased as she felt him go straight between her legs, spreading her apart, making room to lap hungrily at her warm sweet juices. Moving rapidly from her clit back down inside of her and back to her clit. He was eager to make her ready for him as he needed to be inside of her yesterday.



Brandon licked up her belly and around her navel working his way up to her breast as he crawl between her legs using his knees to encourage her to spread farther for him. As soon as he was within reach, he lifted the patch of material out of his way tucking it inside the waistband. Taking hold of his throbbing member he held himself tightly at the base as he glided himself inside her wet cave.



He held himself still for a moment as he regained control over his impending need. Slowly moving in and out he began to thrust himself deep inside of her, increasing his speed as she encouraged him to go faster.



"Oh, Baby you're so hot.... deeper love... deeper.... oh God.....,"She cried out as his body slammed against hers releasing his hot fluid deep inside of her. He collapsed against her chest holding her as he kissed her lips still trying to breathe normally.



He rolled off of her and curled his body next to hers, falling asleep immediately.

~~~~~~~~~~



Veronica woke first, leaning up on one elbow; she lie in bed watching Brandon sleep. He looked so peaceful, her mind wandered to John and Abby. She hoped that they had also had a peaceful night and that John had finally managed to get a full night of rest.



After speaking to Abby she understood that John did not do very well without sleep and yesterday had turned out to be a bit of an emotional roller coaster for him. He had been deeply in love with Abby for a very long time and for many reasons had never been able to admit to her how he felt. Last night it was like an entire dam had broken loose and for the first time he was able to put his fears aside and tell Abby the he loved her. Veronica was happy that John was finally able to find the happiness that he so desired.



Brandon woke when he felt her eyes gazing at him. He pulled her close and kissed her. "Morning, Roni," he croaked, his voice not quite ready to speak. She laid her head in the crook of his arm as she tipped her head to see his face.



"I have never understood why some people have such a hard time expressing their feelings, I mean I know all the 'whys' and 'wherefores' it's just hard to imagine." Brandon spoke softly his voice slowly becoming clearer.



"I believe that John has been hurt too many time, Abby also for that matter." Veronica explained. "But there is something about John, something deep inside of him that make's him very insecure. I really wish that I could spend some time with him and find out what it is." Veronica was lying on her back looking up towards the ceiling.



"He has mentioned that everyone he has ever gotten close to has either died or left him. I know that his parents pretty much neglected him after his brother died." Brandon told her about some of the talks they had while in Atlanta.



"It's very hard for either one of them to communicate their feelings because they are so afraid of rejection. I think that they are going to be just fine though because they have spend a long time really getting to know each other inside and out. I don't know very many couples that start out knowing as much about each other as those two do. Once they begin to feel safe with their feeling there's going to be no stopping them." Veronica said still not convinced that she knew all there was to know about John Carter.



"I hope so," Brandon rolled off the bed and headed into the bathroom. When he came back out Veronica was sitting on the edge of the bed with her robe on over her skimpy underwear waiting her turn for the bathroom. He grabbed his robe and put it on as he waited for her.



"I guess if we plan on getting dressed we'll have to go see if our guests are awake yet," Brandon stood with his robe gapping open with his loincloth still on. He had removed the leather necklace sometime during the night.



"Yeah, well I expect the halls to be a bit busier that they were last night," she pointed to the open robe as she looked through her purse for the keycard to the other room.



To be continued…..

Abby rolled over and squinted from the sunlight. She groaned and rubbed her eyes, trying to orient herself to where she was. Then she heard his breathing. Slowly, she rolled onto her other side and there he was. Sleeping soundly, his head buried by blankets and pillows, his hair standing up all over, and he was softly snoring.



Suddenly, all the previous night began to return to her cognitive memory. She smiled, watching him sleep. He looked so young and innocent, not at all like the passionate lover she'd met the night before. Who would have thought John Truman Carter would be so indulgent when it came to sex?



Abby curled up in the covers daring to run a finger across his brow. She was almost scared to touch him for fear of discovering that this whole experience, John, Veronica, and Brandon having just been a dream. But here she was, in a fancy hotel bed, watching the naked body of her roommate and best friend sleep.



Abby's bladder made itself known so she crawled out from under the luxurious covers and slipped John's shirt onto her petite frame. After relieving herself, she looked in the mirror and had to laugh. Her makeup was smeared, her eyes looked like she's been punched and her hair was a mess. How could that man in the other room possibly be in love with her?



Then she wondered what she saw in him. He was from a completely different background. He was cultured, trained from a small child to be socially acceptable. He went to art galleries and museum openings. He owned, not rented, but owned a tux, not just one, but several. He could be arrogant and stuck up if the mood struck him, but more often than not, he was warm and gentle with a constant need to feel accepted. He was, well, everything she always wanted.



Abby began to draw a bath, pouring a generous amount of the scented bath crystals she found into the steaming water. She thought hard about the man in the other room and realized how alike they were. They were both ruled by their emotions, taking things a bit too far on repeated occasions, unstable, insecure, and lonely. She slipped out of John's shirt but smelled it before she could put it down. His scent was imbedded into the fabric, comforting her. She stepped into the water and slowly slid under its blanket of warmth.



John had been there for her whenever she needed him. He was there for her mother, he was the one who made time for her when her mother suddenly showed up at the hospital, he helped her with the fish tank, he always walked her to her door and their nightly walks when working at the hospital had been so comforting. He held her when she cried and listened without judging when she came home ranting about anything.



She'd been there for him, also. When his grandfather died, when he needed to talk in the middle of the night, when he felt scared. She'd made him admit his weaknesses and helped him put the pieces back together. They complimented what the other didn't, couldn't, or wouldn't do. They supported each other in every aspect of their thoughts.



And this man had touched her in ways no man or woman had ever touched her before. He'd taken her to heaven repeatedly before joining her there on the cloud. With John, it wasn't sex. She wasn't even sure he was capable of having sex. No, she thought. With John, it was overwhelming. It was emotional. It was wildly physical and satisfying. It was absolutely spiritual.



Abby softly ran the bath sponge over her arms, thinking of the way he had caressed her entire body the night before. He hadn't missed a single inch of her, making her feel like the most beautiful woman in the entire world.



Would they leave this hotel and go back to leading their lives as friends, as lovers, or as a couple? Was it possible to be all three? She wasn't sure but however they left it, she would always remember her one night of total passion.



Abby sat upright quickly; suddenly remembering she had a shift this afternoon. Oh, this dream couldn't end so soon. There was still so much she wanted to do, so many body parts to explore, so many experiences to have. She wasn't ready. Could she fake it? Could she feign the flu? Could she call Dr. Weaver and tell her she needed out of her shift because she was having the best sex of her life with the man she loved? Well, anything was possible. Abby slipped out of the tub quickly, making sure to have gotten all the soap off her skin and wrapped herself up in a fluffy towel.



Good, she thought. John was still sleeping. She silently tiptoed out to the living area and located the phone. Dialing the ER, she practiced coughing a few times. She recognized the voice right away.



"ER. How can I help you?" The female voice answered, Abby coughed a few times.



"Uh, Wandi, is Weaber awoun?" Abby tried her best. "It's Abby."



"Abby? Man, you sound like shit. Ya, hang on." Randi cupped her hand over the phone and looked around for Dr. Weaver. She stopped her in chairs. "Dr. Weaver, phone. It's Abby. I think she's calling off." Randi informed her. Kerry smiled ever so slightly. She accepted the receiver from Randi.



"Abby? This had better be serious." She scolded. Abby could feel herself shaking.



"Oh, it is, Dr. Weaber. I can't breave and my head huwrts. I fink I hab a feber." Abby said, proud of her performance. She could have sworn she heard Kerry chuckle.



'There's a nasty virus going around, very contagious." Kerry said sympathetically.



"I should be back by tomorrow." Abby said, surprised that it even seemed Kerry believed her.



"I don't think that's a good idea, Abby. Why don't you take a few days off? Dr. Carter starts working his night shift rotation that night. I'm sure he could keep an eye on you if you happen to fall ill while you begin your night shift rotation." Kerry exclaimed.



"Nights?" Abby complained, almost forgetting about sounding ill. "How long?" She asked.



"Oh, I believe a month will be sufficient. Dr. Carter has opted for working nights for the next month or so as well." Kerry rattled. Abby was upset for having to be switched to nights, but John also? She knew he worked the days mostly. Then Abby realized that Kerry Weaver was a very smart lady and totally on to her. She also knew that Kerry assumed John was with her and that they would both end up working nights for the next month.



"Thank you, ma'am." Abby said, blushing, losing the feigning of being sick routine.



"Oh, and Abby?" Kerry said sternly.



"Yes, ma'am?" Abby answered, waiting for Kerry to begin yelling.



"Tell Veronica she left an earring at my place." Abby heard the line go dead. She couldn't help but to laugh.



"Veronica and Weaver? Oh, way too graphic." She shook the thought out of her head as she returned silently to the tub.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



Abby had her head leaned back in the tub and she was almost asleep when she felt the water move. She looked up to see John climbing in to join her. He smiled, rubbing his hands up her calves.



"I've been watching you." He said, leaning over and kissing her knee. She smiled, rubbing her stomach with the bath sponge. She ran it up over her breasts as John's eyes wandered to follow her hand. He moaned quietly.



"Come here." He held out his hand. She accepted it, turned around, and leaned up against his chest. He placed a large amount of soap onto the bath sponge and took over washing her body. Their other hands were entwined together, fingers caressing fingers. Abby leaned her head back against his shoulder, closing her eyes and smiling.



"So, when do you turn back into the frog?" She mumbled, enjoying his caresses.



"What?" He chuckled. "I've never shown you my papers? I'm purebred prince." He kidded, finishing her shoulders and neck, going down to her sides.



"So, you think we can do this?" She said quietly, not wanting to curse what was happening.



"Do what?" John asked, paying much more attention to what he was touching than listening.



"Us, this. Do you think we can have a relationship? I mean, if that's what you want. I may have this whole thing wrong. I mean, what happens when we leave here? What happens when Brandon and Veronica go home?" She began babbling. John took his hand and turned her head to face him.



"I love you, Abby," he whispered, bringing his lips gently to hers. She smiled against him.



"You love me now, naked in a tub, but will you love me tomorrow?" She asked, kissing his nose.



"I have loved you for three years, ever since I first saw you. That's why I was so angry with you when, well.... I knew that only you could really see through me." He took her hand and placed it on his chest. "You see me here, in my heart." He kissed her fingers, bringing her hand to his mouth. He gently sucked one of her fingers into his mouth and looked into her eyes. "Abby, I love you today, tomorrow and however many tomorrows that you will let me." Abby turned around, pressing her chest against his, kissing him with as much passion as his words.



"John, I need you," she whispered, her breaths coming in gasps as she kissed every inch of his face.



"I also need you," he captured her mouth again, his hand covering her breast.



"No, John. I need you now, inside me, I need you to make love to me." She begged, savagely attacking his mouth.



"Oh, God, Abby," he moaned. "The condoms are on the night stand." He held her hips away from him, Abby trying to climb up on top of him. She whimpered. John sat up, stepped out of the tub, and gracefully lifted her into his arms. Abby squealed.



"Don't drop me," she giggled, hiding her face in his chest.



"Never." He smiled, carrying her to the bed and laying her on it. He reached for the condom and she stopped him. He pulled back, confused but then she reached for one, ripping it open. He sat on the edge of the bed and she sat up next to him.



"May I?" She smiled wickedly. He nodded, lying back onto the bed, placing a hand around her back.



Abby looked at his body for the first time. Holding the condom in her hand, she decided she needed to explore first. She got up on all fours, leaned over and kissed his neck. John lifted his head, allowing her better access.



"Oh, Abby." He moaned, her mouth licking and biting his flesh. Abby motioned him to get all the way onto the bed, which he did so quickly. Once comfortable, Abby straddled his thighs, again kissing his neck. She sucked on his collarbone, breaking blood vessels. He moaned loudly and wrapped his hands around her ribs.



"You like that?" She asked, bemused. He smiled back at her.



"Oh, yes." He slid his hands down her side and rested his hands on her hips. Abby leaned forward again, kissing down his neck and slowly down his chest. Abby always found a man with sensitive nipples a turn-on and John did not disappoint her in the least. He arched his back and groaned as she sucked, nibbled, and bit.



"Ow!' He said, covering the injured nipple with his hand, using his best pout. She pulled his hand away.



"Baby." She teased. An image of Lucy flashed through his mind and he squeezed his eyes shut.



Abby didn't notice as she continued her trail of kisses across his ribs and down his arm. She lifted his hand, with John watching intensely to her every movement. She removed his watch, set it on the nightstand, and kissed the inside of his wrist.



John didn't realize that spot was the slightest bit of an erogenous zone but what Abby was doing with her tongue could be felt directly in his groin. He closed his eyes, concentrating on her mouth.



Abby stopped, looking at his wrist. She hadn’t expected to see it. She didn't think it would be there but there it was. She looked at his face, their eyes meeting, both realizing what she had found. John tried to pull his hand away but she held it to her chest.



"It reminds me how stupid I was," He whispered as tears began to well up in his eyes. He blinked them back not allowing them to fall.



Abby searched his deep dark pools, not having realized that it had been as bad as the scars showed. The time she had caught him had not been the only time he'd injected.



Knowing now was not the time to bring up his past addiction, Abby continued. She kissed his palm, worshipping the strength found there. She slowly slid his thumb into her mouth, hearing him groan. Slowly in and out she sucked, moving from the thumb to the index finger and on to the others. She finished with his hands and continued back down his arm, across his chest and onto his stomach. Again, Abby was taken back by the marks. She kissed across his midsection, along the outline of his ribs, down to his belly button. Her hands gently traced the length of his scar, remembering his pain. John calmly moved her hand.



Abby kissed down his thighs, admiring him from the corner of her eye. While it was average in looks, she had discovered it wasn't the size; it was what one did with it.



"Abby, come on." He tried to get her to lie down but she held firmly, still straddling him. She sat back and smiled, looking at his eyes.



"What? You aren't enjoying yourself?" she smiled wickedly, holding up the condom.



"Just do it, Abby." He moaned, thrusting his hips up at her to get her attention.



"In a hurry? Got someplace to go?" She teased, placing her hands on either side of his hips as she moved between his legs. John laughed painfully.



"No. I'm just going to be done by the time you plan on putting that thing on." He laughed, taking deep breaths.



"Well, I do believe I missed out on one of my favorite activities last night. I believe you said you were in pain last night also?" She teased. He laughed.



"You'd be amazed how often I'm in pain," he said with a wicked grin.



"Oh, no, I wouldn't," she smiled and winked, holding the condom; she slid further down between his legs and leaned forward.



John's hips bucked as he felt her wet, warm mouth engulf his organ. If he thought Brandon was the King then Abby was the Master. She took his full length completely, her throat constricting effortlessly and slid her mouth back up to the tip and looked at his face.



John's eyes were closed, his hand ripping the sheets off the corners of the bed. She could see his stomach muscles clenching as he held his breath. She licked around the tip, smiling.



"You are very sensitive, aren't you?" She smiled, nibbling down the side. John didn't answer, he couldn't. Words were not possible. She moved down to his scrotum, first lavishing with her tongue, then sucking him into her mouth, rotating softly and with more action, finding which John preferred.



"Oh, Jesus." John arched suddenly when she became rougher. Her tongue wrapped around, pressing hard. She released him and began again at his base. John's breathing was labored and uneven.



"Abby, please. I need to be in you." He begged, trying to pull her up from his groin. She gently held his length in her hand, kissing the tip.



"You taste good," she smiled, as she began to roll the condom onto him.



"Not as good as you," he smiled back. Abby moved back up his chest, kissing.



"What do you like best?" she asked.



"As in what? Movies, food, books?" He teased, able to touch her breast finally, gently playing with it.



"John," she scowled. "You know what I mean. Do you like it orally, or do you prefer intercourse." She asked, lying across his front, casually stroking his chest. It was just so comfortable to be with him.



"Intercourse." He said, nodding his head. "Now, that's not saying I don't enjoy orally." He admitted. "What about you?"



"Actually, I love intercourse but have better orgasms orally. Even better after having intercourse." She giggled. John filed the information away for later. "What about rectally? You seemed to like what Brandon did to you last night." She asked. He blushed slightly.



"I did. I don't know. It's different. The level of climax is much higher rectally. When I stayed with them, Brandon was in me and Veronica climbed on front. Talk about climax. My, God, I thought I'd died." He said.



"You didn't tell me you were a contortionist." She teased as he laughed.



"I didn't think I was either but they proved me wrong. Once, Brandon and I both entered Veronica at the same time. That one got me." He said, gently brushing her nipple as she relaxed on top. It was nice. Slow, close and as friends. Both were still very aroused but needed this closeness.



"Did it bother you with Brandon and I last night?" He asked. Abby shook her head.



"Oh, no, not at all. I found it to be, well, probably the biggest turn on I've ever experienced." She giggled. "Richard used to like rectal."



"On him?" John asked, surprised. Abby laughed.



"No, on me." She blushed. John's eyebrows rose.



"And you?" He questioned. She blushed even deeper.



"I liked it. Not every time but there are just some times where you need a good fuck. It's good for that." She explained, sucking his nipple gently.



"Mmm. That feels good." He moaned, running his hand through her hair.



"Have you ever been able to climax just from your nipples?" She asked. John shook his head.



"No. Never tried but I don't think I could. They get sore after a while. What about you?" He asked.



"Once Luka tried . ." She stopped at the mention of his name. John smiled.



"It's okay, Abby. Names of past people will come up occasionally." He smiled. "We both have pasts." He pulled her up to his mouth. "But right now, you are all I care about." He kissed her passionately and tried to roll her over but she stopped him. He pulled away, confused. "What's wrong?" he asked. She straddled his waist and smiled.



"How about positions? Who do you like to be on top?" She wriggled her pelvis against his stomach. He could feel her wetness and he smiled.



"I prefer to be on top," he said, thrusting up a bit. Abby smiled wickedly.



"Not this time," she said, reaching back and grasping his cock. Lifting up, Abby slowly slid herself down onto him, causing John to gasp. "Man, you like being the one in control, don't you?" She smiled, watching the look of complete pleasure run over his face. She was going to enjoy this. Last night, it had been dark but now, the room was flooded with light.



"Only as much as you," he said, thrusting up into her body, making Abby gasp.



"You ever had a woman make love to you, John Carter?" She regained her composure. She lifted and lowered herself again, clenching her walls, caressing him from the inside.



"I always kinda figured it was a two way thing." He teased her by pulling back when she tried to press down on him. He smiled mischievously. Abby leaned over, placing her hands on top of his, holding him against the bed.



"Not always. How about bondage? Have you ever been tied up, unable to move?" She asked, thrusting her hips against his.



"You'll have to ask the couple in the other room for details on that," he smiled. Abby laughed.



"Doesn't surprise me on that one. Think we'll be that active when we get to be their age?" She asked, slowly sliding up and down again. John moaned.



"Abby, I plan on making love to you until the day I die," he said seriously.



Abby brought her mouth down on his in a hungry, passionate kiss. Her arms weakened and John rolled her over and took control of making love to the woman he loved.



To be continued………………

Brandon tapped on the bedroom door quietly. He could hear Abby clear her throat and whisper.



"Come on in." She answered. Brandon walked in quietly and smiled. John was wrapped so completely around her that it was difficult to see where she ended and he began.



"You want something to drink?" Brandon asked, sitting on the edge of the bed and touching her cheek as she smiled sweetly at him.



"Water would be nice, thank you," she purred, her body completely relaxed. She had John's silk shirt on, still unbuttoned, and was wearing her G-string. John had begged her to put it on. Veronica brought some water in and sat on the opposite side of the bed.



"Thanks," Abby said after taking a few sips. John lifted his head slightly as Abby held the bottle for him. He took a sip and laid his head back down.



"I thought he was asleep," Veronica giggled as she ran her hand across John's sheet covered hip. He smiled, still keeping his eyes closed.



"I'm awake, just relaxed," he murmured. Abby stroked the arm that was wrapped around her stomach and under the shirt.



"So, you two finally get all the tension out of your system?" Brandon asked, feeling calmness in the air. Abby giggled and they could see John smiling. He lifted his head and looked at Abby.



"Oh, there's plenty of tension still there," John shifted his hips against Abby's.



"It just figured out where to go," she purred, one of her hands still under the covers, gently holding him. She gently squeezed making John moan softly.



Brandon noticed a few empty condom wrappers laying on the nightstand. "So, you kids did use protection, right?" He asked. Abby pulled the covers over her head.



"You sound like my mother when I was sixteen," she said from underneath. John popped his head up.



"I thought you were sixteen when you lost your virginity," he asked.



"I was but I became active pretty quickly," she admitted, not wanting to bring up what she'd learned about John's virginity now. The mood was too comfortable to have him go tensing up again.



"So, are you two using protection?" Veronica repeated the question.



"Yes, mother," John, mumbled, his face still against Abby's skin.



"You two do get tested for work, don't you?" Brandon asked.



"Yeah, about very six months, why?" Abby came back out from under the covers, curious as to the direction of the questioning.



"You're both clear, right?" Veronica asked.



"I am," John said, looking at Abby. He had no doubt that she was.



"Me, too," she said, looking straight at John as she answered.



"Abby, are you on birth control?" Veronica asked.



"Yeah, Depo-Provera shots, why?" She asked. John smiled, realizing why they were asking the questions.



"That's a big step," he said, still looking at Abby, who still didn't get the reason for the interrogation.



"What is? What are you guys talking about?" She asked. John leaned up on his elbow.



"Protection. If we're both clear, and you're on birth control, than we don't need it," John explained.



"Wow, that is a big step," she said, realizing the implications. It meant commitment, complete commitment to one another.



Protection also helped ensure her not getting pregnant since birth control had been known to fail. If they stopped using protection and if she became pregnant, did she really want to have a child with this man?



She and Luka had always used condoms. Since her abortion she was not willing to ever take that kind of chance again. Condoms had always been a major issue for her. She did admit not liking them very much and she did like being able to taste John and to feel his skin. The idea of not needing them was sounding quite appealing.



Brandon noticed the apprehensive look on Abby's face and decided this was probably a conversation they needed to have later.



"So, are we ever going to get you two love birds out of this bed?" He asked, as he stood up. Both Abby and John laughed. John finally sat totally up, his fresh hickey clearly showing on his collarbone against his pale skin.



"Oh, you have yourself a little vampire." Veronica giggled. John looked confused so she pointed it out.



"Oh, yeah," he smiled. "Well, I had an idea of something we needed to do. I was thinking maybe if you guys were going to hang around Chicago for a few days that we could get you checked out of here and head back to our apartment. We could move Abby into my room and get her room fixed up as a guest room that you could use." John suggested, looking at Abby's face for her opinion.



"Uh, sure, okay." Abby nodded, a bit surprised but liking the idea. Maybe this thing with John would be serious. They had after all told each other they loved each other but the pessimist in her still expected something to happen to ruin it.



"That sounds like a good idea, Brandon, dear. Why don't we let these two get dressed and we'll get the other room cleared out. She began gather up a few articles of clothing for herself and Brandon before leaving the room.



"Can we think about food soon, also?" John asked, hearing his stomach growl. They all laughed.



"Sure, John, we'll feed you," Abby shoved his bare butt out of the bed. Veronica and Brandon laughed as they left the room.



As soon as Brandon and Veronica left the room, John grabbed Abby and pulled her back onto the bed. He had other plans as to how he wanted to finish off the morning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



"Did you enjoy your stay, Dr. Montgomery?" The desk clerk asked as he finished up with Brandon's paperwork. Veronica was standing behind Brandon while John and Abby were loading shopping bags into his Jeep.



"Yes, I did, Benjamin. Very nice, thank you." Brandon smiled towards Veronica as he signed the receipt.



"Did you two get a chance to see the sights of our lovely city?" He asked.



"We saw what we wanted," Brandon smiled, chuckling.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"So," John asked, Abby snuggling with an arm around his waist as he held her inside his coat. She took a drag off her cigarette and held it out for John.

They stood together in the parking garage as they waited for Veronica and Brandon.



"So," she smiled, feeling the same nervousness he obviously felt.



"Are you sure you're okay with all this?" He asked, afraid to look at her.



"John, I called work and lied to Weaver for you. Yeah, I'm okay with this." She teased. He chuckled, holding her a bit tighter.



"Good thing we already live together," he snickered.



"Why?"



"Well, I'm not sure how my roommate would feel about me bringing my girlfriend home every night. She has a tendency to get a bit noisy," he brushed a piece of hair out of her eyes.



"Yeah, well, I heard you yell out a time or two, John Carter. Good thing you aren't living with your grandma anymore. I could just imagine her face with you yelling at the top of your lungs," She laughed.



John blushed. "No, I don't think that would do Gamma any good at all. I actually never brought anyone I was dating there. I don't think Gamma would approve." He shook his head, grimacing.



"So, when do we let people at work know?" She asked, wanting to announce it to the world. John thought for a few moments.



"Hmmm. I'm on days and you said you're beginning nights," he started.



"Uhm, John. I need to tell you something." Abby remembered what she'd forgotten to tell him. He looked at her, very concerned.



"What?" He asked.



"You're working nights, too." She said, flinching. He looked at her shocked.



"When? Why?" He questioned. Abby giggled.



"Well, Weaver was on to me." She giggled. "She must know something."



"Weaver went to college with Veronica. They're old friends and Weaver is the one who called them to come here." John informed. Abby nodded, understanding.



"That makes sense. She said that whatever I had was probably contagious and I needed to take tomorrow off also. She then told me that I would begin my night rotation and you could keep an eye on me just in case I started feeling bad during my shift because you had volunteered to work nights." She explained. John was laughing to himself. "Then she said that Veronica had left an earring at her place. Do you think they did anything?" She asked. John was laughing hard.



"I wouldn't put it past Veronica for a second. I did tell you Weaver was behind the whole auction, didn't I?" He asked. Abby giggled.



"No, I think you left that part out but Veronica told me yesterday. Who would have thought Weaver had it in her." They stood there chuckling as Brandon and Veronica joined them.



"So, where too?" Brandon asked as he was putting the last of their stuff in the trunk of the rental car.



"Food!" John stated. By now, he was starving. They all laughed as they decided where to meet for breakfast.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"Home sweet home." Veronica stated as they reached the apartment. Abby and John had been self-involved during their meal, cuddling and touching constantly, feeding each other and smiling non-stop. The elevator ride up was almost x-rated when Abby pinned John against the wall and accidentally hit the alarm button.



Veronica and Brandon just watched with amusement and desires, hoping to get another taste that evening. John handed Brandon his keys.



"Do the honors, will you, Brandon?" He asked. John turned to Abby and smiled.



"What are you planning?" She giggled, never having felt so giddy in her life. John picked her up off her feet.



"Carrying you over the threshold," he laughed, bumping into the door jam.



"Ow!" She complained.



"You okay?" He asked.



"You aren't the most graceful person," she teased. He set her down as Brandon shut the door.



"Well, we should probably get to work." John stated, walking towards his bedroom. "Abby, you might want to get started on your room. It may take a few months to find the bed." He teased. Abby stuck her tongue out and pulled Veronica by the hand to her room. John just shook his head.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"So, you're going to move her in here?" Brandon asked, looking around the sparsely furnished room. John looked at him strangely.



"Yeah, why not? It's the bigger of the two bedrooms," he shrugged, opening a dresser drawer. He realized that he really didn't have room for her stuff in his dresser.



"Well, it is sort of male," Brandon shrugged. John stood up and looked around.



"You think?" He asked. Brandon nodded. "Well, when I bought the set, all I needed was the dresser, night stands and the bed," he shrugged.



"Does her stuff match yours?" Brandon asked. Immediately John shook his head.



"Uh, no." He said. Then he had a brainstorm. His eyes lit up. "I have an idea. Come on, I need your help." John dragged Brandon excitedly through the apartment.



"We'll be back," he yelled towards Abby's bedroom. He picked up his keys and just as they went through the door, Abby emerged.



"What?" She said, seeing Brandon was being dragged out the door. Veronica came out to see what was going on.



"Something wrong?" Veronica asked. Abby shook her head and laughed.



"No, they just went somewhere," she giggled as she returned to the bedroom with Veronica in tow.



"Probably a surprise," Veronica laughed, following her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"So, Abby. You've been married?" Veronica asked, laying another batch of clothes onto John's bed.



"Big mistake," Abby shook her head. "He cheated on me. I put him through medical school and he cheated on me."



"Would you marry, John?" Veronica asked as they went back for another load. Abby began to laugh.



"Veronica, we've only slept together one night. I don't think we should talk about marriage quite yet."



"Mmm, I think John's thinking it's already that serious," Veronica warned.



"Really?" She asked.



Veronica nodded. "I get the feeling that John doesn't fall lightly. I think that when he falls, he falls completely. Can you handle being his everything?" Veronica questioned.



"Oh, wow," Abby sat on her old bed, the reality of the situation was just beginning to sink in.



"I don't see him ever cheating on you," Veronica sat next to her and held her hand. "I don't think you could call Brandon and me cheating," Veronica added.



"Uh, not when we both participate, no." Abby blushed, the two girls giggled at the idea of the four of them together.



"John will be totally devoted to you for as long as you let him," Veronica smiled.



Abby nodded. This she was also sure of.



Veronica took on more of a somber tone. "Will you be as devoted to him?" She asked, looking Abby directly in the eyes.



"I'll try," Abby said hesitantly.



"Don't let him fall in love with you unless you can totally give yourself to him, Abby. He would die for you, of that I'm sure. You need to ask yourself if you would do the same. If not, let him down now. Don't let him believe you love him if you don't," Veronica gently warned.



"Why are you so overprotective of him?" Abby asked.



"He brought my husband back to me and I owe John my marriage and my life as I know it. Do you know about how he and Brandon became friends?" Veronica asked. To truly know John, Abby would need to know everything.



"No, he barely talks about it. I think he's ashamed of the whole thing." Abby said. "Tell me what you know."



Veronica and Abby spent the next hour talking about John and Brandon, about the entire Atlanta trip and about John's first visit to see them. Abby was able to see one of the many sides of John that he did not share easily, but a part of his life she needed to know about.



To be continued……..

"Where are you taking me, John?" Brandon questioned as they drove. John laughed.



"The place I bought my furniture gave me a hard time because I didn't buy more of the set. There's a vanity and a lingerie armoire that goes with it." John said, looking excited. "I also need to see if they have another dresser," he added.



"You're loving this whole thing, aren't you?" Brandon smiled, not feeling a single negative thought from John. He was absolutely glowing.



"Brandon, I have waited my whole life to feel like this. You know, I thought I'd been in love before but it was nothing like this. I feel like I'm floating on air. I can't wait to get home just to see her again," John smiled.



"You do realize you two will still run into difficulties and hard times," Brandon warned.



"Brandon, I'm old enough to understand what's ahead. I just feel that as long as we're together, we can do it. God knows we've been through a lot already," he reassured Brandon.



"What if she decides to go back to medical school?" Brandon asked.



"What about it?" John asked, confused.



"I would bet they wouldn't allow the two of you to work in the same department," Brandon said. John thought for a few moments.



"We'll deal with that when we get there, if we get there. Playing devil's advocate, huh Brandon?" He kidded.



"Just want you to be sure. Doesn't her ex-boyfriend work as an attending in the ER?" Brandon asked.



"We'll work it out. Luka knew there were feelings there." John groaned, at the thought that he knew that he was the reason that Luka had broken up with her.



"What about her recent relapse?" Brandon asked.



"What?" John turned towards Brandon as if he had forgotten that he had said anything about that.



"You yourself stated she was drinking as short as three months ago. You strong enough to handle that?" Brandon asked, seeing doubt in John's eyes for the first time.



"There were extenuating circumstances. She was protecting her neighbor who was being beaten. She ended up getting beaten also. She was under a lot of stress." John tried to explain. He could read Brandon's thoughts.



"I know I'm just coming up with excuses. We can handle it, Brandon. We can support each other. I love her enough to not screw myself again and I can help her." John rattled on trying to not think of all the negative side to all this right now.



"Besides we've been going to AA meetings regularly and she's doing fine. I really shouldn't have said anything. I was just angry that she hadn't admitted it, but I understand why she didn't." John looked back at Brandon and gave a small laugh. "I know what you're thinking and no, I don't think she's in denial, she just feels really bad about falling off the wagon after so many years."



"I hope so, my friend. I certainly hope so," Brandon smiled.

~~~~~~~~~~



John and Brandon pulled up into the parking lot of a rather large furniture warehouse. On their ride over, John had talked about when he had moved out of his grandmother's home that he had no furniture to start out with. He had gotten rid of everything he once had long ago.



The first thing he had done when he and Abby decided to rent this apartment together was to go and buy a new bedroom set. He had been rather tired of the ornate antique furnishings at Gamma's and had opted for a rather plain rich golden oak set. He had gotten a king-sized poster bed with two small night tables each with 3 small drawers. The dresser was a tall highboy style chest and the only other piece of furniture in his room was a small desk, which had also been a part of the same set.



The sales clerk had shown him that there where many other pieces that could be ordered to go with the set but he saw no need for any of them at the time. He only hoped that they could still order pieces in the same style.



Brandon laughed heartily at John as he rambled on about the furniture. Pulling the large front door open and gesturing for John to enter, Brandon followed close behind.



"May I help you?" A young salesman stepped forward as soon as John had found the very set he now owned.



John was fumbling through his wallet for the business card of the man who had helped him with his original purchase.



"Is Jason Anderson here?" John turned towards the young man.



"Yes sir, I'll get him for you."



Brandon made himself comfortable on one of the many beds as John flipped through a catalog with the many different pieces that came with the set.



"I do hope that you know what you're getting yourself into," Brandon smiled as he leaned back against the headboard with his hands behind his head, his long legs on the bed with one foot crossed over the other.



John just looked at him puzzled. He began to say something when Jason interrupted them.



"Dr. Carter, what can I help you with?" Jason asked recognizing the young man.



John turned towards him and stood there with a look of surprise as he came face to face with him.



"I try not to ever forget a good customer," Jason smiled as he reached out his hand to John.



"Thank you," John shook his hand and pointed to a long low dresser and a vanity. "My girlfriend's moving in with me and I need to get her a dresser and maybe that vanity, also." John fumbled through the catalog. "And do you have one of these armoires? I think she would like that, also." John asked pointing to the picture.



"Yes, I believe we do. This set also comes with a hutch attachment for that dresser with a mirror and shelves on the sides." The salesman explained with a smiled as he observed John, 'this was going to be an easy sale' he thought. 'Hook, line and sinker' he could sell this guy the entire store at this point.



John was like a kid in a candy shop. If it sounded good he wanted it.



"I believe that we have one in the store room if you would like to see it." He showed John the picture in the catalog and also pointed out that his lady friend might also like a hope chest, showing him that there was indeed an oak chest that matched.



Brandon chuckled at John, thinking that he was absolutely crazy, but he had no intentions of ruining John's fun. He knew full well that John could afford every bit of what he was buying and also knew that Abby needed to learn what it was going to be like to have a man worship her the way John obviously did.



As Jason showed John into the storeroom to look at the armoire and hutch piece, Jason also pointed out a full-length floor mirror.



"Hmm, do you have one that hangs on the wall?" John asked, thinking that the mirror was a good idea but he wasn't sure that he wanted something like that in his room. But a long mirror that they could hang on the door would be nice.



Jason showed him an assortment of different styles, all which would go perfectly fine with the rest. John picked out the one he wanted and reaffirmed the rest of his selections.



"Fine, I want them all but I want them delivered today," John handed Jason his credit card.



"Today? I'm not sure that's possible," Jason answered.



"$200.00 says I'm sure it is." John replied seriously. "And I want it delivered within an hour." John wrote down the address as Jason went to inform his boss that the items had to be delivered immediately.



Jason came back out of the office and told John that the items where already being loaded.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



On the way home, the guys stopped and picked up pizza for lunch. All this shopping had made them hungry and they knew that they needed to keep up their strength.



John sat the pizza on the coffee table and got out some paper plates. Abby had insisted on using them. He got out some glasses and filled them with ice for the soda he had also brought.



Upon hearing them come in, Abby and Veronica joined them, each greeting their man with hugs and kisses.



John and Abby sat down on the love seat as Brandon and Veronica took the couch.



"So, where did you guys go?" Abby asked curiously.



"You guys were gone a bit too long for just pizza," Veronica smiled as she picked up a piece.



"I'll tell you later, it's sort of a surprise," John said, reaching for seconds.



Brandon shook his head as he laughed. Abby looked puzzled at John. He just brought his piece of pizza to her mouth offering her a bite, feeding it to her, and not paying any attention to anything but her. Abby, in turn, fed him back. This went on until they had each finished another piece. He sucked in one of her fingers into his mouth, holding on to her wrist, and licking off the sauce.

"Now, this is the way to eat pizza," John exclaimed as he sat back and looked at her totally amazed. He had waited so long for this and now he couldn't figure out what had taken them so long to find their way to each other.



"Have I told you how much I love you, Abigail Lockhart?" John moved closer and kissed her on the lips.



Veronica got up to clean up the mess, taking Abby and John's plate from them before they had it all over themselves. As soon as their hands where free they were all over each other.



Brandon got up and followed Veronica into the kitchen taking her by the hand; he whispered to her to follow him and led her into John's room.



"John just bought Abby a dresser and a bunch of other girlie furniture. But he wants it to be a total surprise. Maybe you can take Abby and go find something to do for awhile before the delivery truck gets here." Brandon suggested.



"Girlie furniture?" Veronica mocked him, questioning what he meant by that.



"You know a vanity and one of those chests you keep all your jewelry and delicates in," he leaned over and kissed her. "And a treasure chest thing and a mirror."



"Good Lord, Brandon, did you let him get carried away?" Veronica laughed.



"He was having so much fun, I just couldn't interfere," he held his hand up in mock defense.



"Okay, okay, I'll take her shopping. This room is way too drab anyway." She kissed him and walked out leaving Brandon standing alone in John's room.



"Hey you two, time to break it up, Abby come with me we have a little surprise of our own to work on," she said as she took Abby by the hand and told her to grab her purse.

~~~~~~~~~~



Soon after the girls left, the delivery truck arrived. John instructed the men as to where to put the furniture. The room was long with the bed and two nightstands at the end. There was a tall narrow window in each corner with a wide window in the center of the right side of the room, against the wall on the right was John's dresser and in the corner was the desk.



John and Brandon began moving around the many boxes that Abby had already piled up in the room. John had started putting some of the boxes in the closet just to get them out of the way.



He noticed that Abby had hung up what few dresses, pairs of slacks and blouses that she owned in his closet. He began moving what few items he had on that side over to the opposite side. The closet was very large and had plenty of room for both of them but since he had never had to share, he just used both sides.



The first thing that was brought in was the large dresser, which was placed on the left wall, which was to be Abby's side of the bed. As the deliverymen went back down for the next piece, John and Brandon quickly began to place all the piles of folded clothes that lay on the bed into the drawers. They did their best to separate pants from shirts from pajamas etc. Abby could always rearrange later but for now they just wanted it to look picked up when she saw it.



Next they brought in the mirrored hutch and placed it on top of the dresser and went back down for the chest, which was placed at the foot of the bed. John began putting some of the small boxes in the chest. Other small items that were on the bed he placed randomly on the small shelves of the mirror.



Next came the vanity, which was set on the wall opposite the bed and to the right as the room was entered. Then the armoire which was placed in the corner near the vanity and last but not least, John paid the men an extra $50.00 to hang the full-length mirror on the inside of the bedroom door.



By the time they had finish John took a look around and noticed that his section of the room had suddenly been reduced to a mere corner. He found himself laughing, if not feeling a little bit overwhelmed. He lay down on his side of the bed still trying to absorb all that had happened in such a short time.



"You don't think we're moving too fast here, do you?" John asked Brandon as he lay down on the bed along side John.



"Not if this is what you really want," Brandon reassured him.



John stretched out and yawned allowing Brandon to pull him closer as he wrapped his arm around his neck cradling him. John tipped his head back as Brandon kissed and nibbled along his neck. Brandon's hands slipped under his shirt and gently massaged John's chest playing with his nipples as he continued to assault his senses with his tongue.



John felt his body respond as Brandon slipped his other hand underneath his shirt, pulling the fabric up and over his head as he lifted John's body to remove it.



Brandon leaned down and began licking a wet trail around John's nipples as he slid his hand across his groin, caressing his hardness through his jeans.



"Mmmm," John groaned as he thrust his hips against Brandon's palm, wanting to increase the friction. Brandon unbuttoned the fly and reached inside, pushing the stiff fabric down as he licked down and around the patch of dark hair that encircled his navel.



John giggled as Brandon tickled his ribs with his tongue.



"Ticklish?" Brandon said pulling John's jeans and boxers completely off his body. He gazed at John's beautiful naked body as he pulled off his socks. Standing up, Brandon pulled his own shirt over his head, stripped off his jeans and lying alongside John, he once again kissed his way from his lips to his thighs. John ran his hands through Brandon's hair as he began to beg Brandon to take him in his mouth.



"Oh God, Brandon...please suck me... I want to feel your mouth on me." Brandon continued to lick and tease all around John's groin avoiding his need.



John pulled himself up and turned his body around pinning Brandon to the bed. He wrapped his lips around Brandon's begging cock, licking and teasing up and down the entire length. He straddled Brandon's face, pressing himself slowly towards Brandon's mouth. His body was begging to be taken. Brandon teased John with his tongue as he rolled on to his side. John continued to suck up and down on Brandon as he felt his own organ engulfed by Brandon's warm wet mouth.



"Uhhmm," he groaned trying to concentrate on what he was doing as he felt his need building quickly inside of him, like a raging river flowing rapidly through him. They were both so close and so involved when they heard the door of the apartment open.



"We're home!" They heard Abby call out. Brandon held John in place as he began to suck harder on John's throbbing cock. John needed this as he felt his impending orgasm threatening to burst forth. He ignored everything else around him. He could hear the girls in the next room and barely heard Abby call out again. Brandon held him tightly cutting off the circulation as he sucked harder tasting the pre-cum leaking from him.



"We'll be back later," was all he heard as his orgasm ripped through him and he tasted Brandon's warm juices fill his throat.



"Oh God, that was fantastic," John sighed, still catching his breath as he caressed Brandon's thigh licking up the remnants of the liquid still oozing from him.



"Did you hear the girls come back?" John whispered contentedly as Brandon pulled him up to lie along side of him.



"Yeah, but I think they left again, something about washing sheets," Brandon answered, curling his body up against John as they both drifted off to sleep.



To be continued…..

"Okay, my dear. What kind of look do you want to go for?" Veronica asked as they walked through the local home decorating shop. Abby looked around.



"I'm not sure. His room is just so, well, let's just say he learned to decorate from his grandmother." Abby teased.



"Well, for one, he's never had a woman around to help him. Oh, look at this lace. Isn't it pretty?" Veronica felt the silky material of the drapery display. Abby scrunched her nose.



"I was thinking more like this." Abby pointed out a simple, straight cut, tab top curtain in a dark green material. Veronica shook her head.



"Nope. That won't do at all. If you're going to go that route, you might as well let John decorate, complete with a basketball in the corner of the room lying on top of his dirty clothes." Veronica moved Abby to a more delicate window display.



"Now, I know that man loves you but you have to consider a few things here." Veronica led Abby to a bench and sat down. "Consider the environment that John has been brought up in. He's from a wealthy background, where the homes were decorated, not just thrown together. He's used to being surrounded by nice things. From what I've gathered, he's also from the family structure of the men doing the work and holding the positions and the women being their support, yet at the same time, the women are the strong ones of the family." She explained.



"You aren't telling me I need to turn into one of those high society snobs, are you?" Abby grimaced making Veronica laugh.



"No, Abby. Good Lord, no. I'm just thinking that you should bring out your feminine side. Decorate with some lace, maybe some scarves. Make that room your sanctuary, you know, the place for all your fantasies. He may think he's the all-powerful male of the relationship, but Honey, we can turn them into putty in a second. It's us who rule in that room." They both laughed.



"Okay," Abby stood. "Let's go get some lace. Oh, and you have got to help me pick out some lamps for the nightstands. Those hideous ones he has have got to go!" Abby stated strongly.



"Now you've got the idea!" Veronica laughed, leading Abby to the back of store.



"Oh, would you look at this!" Veronica exclaimed. She ran her hands along a beautiful bedspread. It was so feminine; all ruffles and lace covered. Abby looked at it, thinking it looked like something that belonged on a princess's bed.



"It is beautiful." Abby admired, touching it softly.



Veronica raised her eyebrows. "So, do you want to get it?" She asked, giggling.



"Oh, God, no. I can just see John's face when he has to crawl into a bed covered in lace!" Abby laughed hard. She thought it would be funny to see but not likely.



"You're right." Veronica looked at the spread again. "We do have to stay somewhat neutral here, don't want him to feel out of place in his own room," Veronica laughed.



"What kind of sheets should I get?" Abby asked, looking at the mountains of sheets. Percale, Flannel, 200 count, 300 count, satin, fitted, flat, bed-in-a-bag; she didn't know where to start.



"Have you ever slept on satin sheets? Veronica held a set up.



"No, Richard said they were too hot," Abby shook her head.



"If you're not careful, you slide right out of bed!" Veronica laughed.



"Do you like this?" Abby found a thick cozy comforter in a hunter green and mauve color with just a hint of gold accent.



"Hmmm…nice color choice. We want a good thread count on the sheets." Veronica pulled a couple matching sets off the shelf and tossed them into their shopping cart. That's a very nice comforter but you'll need a duvet cover to match. Oh, and some fluffy down pillows. There's nothing like new pillows." Veronica was pulling things off the shelves left and right. Abby was watching in amazement.



"I get the feeling you like to shop," Abby shook her head.



"Oh, I do." Veronica, admitted, looking through the various curtains.



"This is one thing that is sort of difficult because the window coverings have to be dark enough to block out the light. John has enough trouble getting to sleep sometimes without having to worrying about the sun bothering him." Abby remarked as she to checked out the various drapes on display.



"You sound like a married woman already, Abby, ever so concerned for John. Don't get me wrong that's a good thing." Veronica found the drapes that matched the comforter and was looking for the correct size. "You can always get some shades if these aren't dark enough but I think these will be fine."



"So, how long have you and Brandon been married?" Abby asked as they roamed the isles.



"Twenty-eight years." Veronica smiled.



"Twenty-eight years?" Abby coughed loudly. "And you still touch each other?" She laughed, completely shocked. She thought they acted more like newlyweds.



"Oh, yes, dear. I find that man sexier as we get older," Veronica cooed.



"Well, I certainly think so, but how in the world do you keep things fresh?"

Abby's eyes twinkled. "I mean how do you keep the sparks flying?" Abby was amazed.



Veronica thought for a few minutes. "Well, we trust each other, completely trust each other. We've had some rough times, just like everyone else. We love each other. It's that simple and that complicated at the same time." Veronica shrugged. "We also don't work together. That may or may not be a problem for you and John. It's hard not to have your time away from each other. You need to remain independent people."



"We were doing everything together before this whole change," Abby smiled. "We work together, go to meetings, watch movies or just hang out together. We're best friends and we do know when to give the other their space." Abby said, a bit unsure.



Veronica put her arm around her shoulder. "Well, don't lose the friendship, Honey. When you find yourselves snipping at each other, you need time away, you hear me?" Veronica warned. "You just come up and stay with me for a while. I'll take care of you." Veronica linked her arm in Abby's as they continued shopping.

~~~~~~~~~~~



The girls returned to the apartment, bags in tow. They wanted to get them down to the laundry room in the basement quickly so they could put them on the bed right away. She'd also picked out a nice set for the guestroom, using a blue and brown color scheme for the extra room.



"We're home!" Abby called out as they took a couple of the packages and left them in Abby's room.



"We're heading down to the basement to wash the new sheets. We'll be back later." Abby yelled over her shoulder as she left the apartment. She shrugged, not getting an answer. "Hm. Oh, well. Maybe they stepped out for something. Come on." She led Veronica back to the elevator, bags still in tow.



"So, you think we'll be able to get all of this stuff washed and ready to use tonight?" Veronica asked. She was actually looking forward to doing laundry. At home, she had hired help to do her laundry. This would be fun with Abby.



"I just hope I have enough quarters." Abby joked, holding up a baby food jar full of quarters.



"Quarters?" Veronica asked. Abby looked at her and smiled.



"When was the last time you had to do laundry?" Abby giggled, seeing Veronica's childlike excitement and confusion.



"It's been a long time," Veronica giggled. "So, how many people use this laundry room?" Abby laughed.



"Everyone from the building, I just hope all the washers are free. I usually have pretty good luck during the day. Poor John always gets stuck waiting for one to free up." Abby explained as they rode down to the basement.



"John does his own laundry?" Veronica asked. Abby looked at her and smiled.



"Sometimes I'll throw a few of his things in with mine. He uses the dry cleaners a lot but I'll do his boxers and his socks for him. We don't have time off much and with his schedule, I figure the least I can do is keep him in clean underwear." Abby giggled as they got off the elevator and walked into the open area of the basement. Along one wall stood six washers and the other side was lined with the dryers. In between lay a long island for sorting and folding. Under the island were several cubbies, one for each apartment for storing their soap and dryer sheets. Across the length of the island was a bar for hanging their clothes.



"Oh, that gives me some ideas," Veronica purred as she walked closer. Abby laughed.



"Do you always see things as sexual? Abby questioned, beginning to take stuff out of bags.



"Always, don't you?" Veronica teased, helping Abby remove their purchases from the wrappings and removing tags. Luckily, all the washers were available. They managed to fill only four of the washers and got them all running.



"So, now what?" Veronica asked, throwing the last of the wrappings into the big trashcan.



"We wait," Abby stated matter-of-factly as she hopped up onto the island to sit on the edge, legs dangling.



"We wait?" Veronica laughed. "We stay down here the entire time?" She asked, bemused.



"If you don't, your stuff has a tendency to take a walk, just ask John. He learned the hard way. So, Veronica, tell me some of the wildest places you and Brandon have had sex," Veronica laughed.



"Oh, dear, you name it, we've done it," she exclaimed, sitting on one of the washers across from Abby.



Abby thought for a few minutes, "In the grocery store?"



"Produce isle or freezer section?" Veronica asked.



"Library?" Abby laughed.



"Periodical section," Veronica nodded.



"In a public park?" She asked, wondering how gutsy this couple really was.



"Oh, please, everyone does it in the park," Veronica brushed that one off. "What about you?" She turned it around and Abby blushed.



"While horseback riding," Abby blushed.



"Oh, Honey." Veronica moaned. "You do know John is an expert rider."



"That's one of my fantasies." She blushed. "I have this one where he's in these tight blue jeans, worn in all the places jeans should be worn in and he's got a beard." Abby smiled.



"He's had a beard?" Veronica asked, liking the idea. "When he stayed with us, he didn't shave and I thought he'd look so good with a beard." Veronica stated, making Abby laugh.



"When I worked in the OB unit, he had one for a while. All the nurses would go down just to see him or we'd try to catch him in the cafeteria. He's considered quite a catch amongst the nurses at the hospital."



"I bet. Have you ever heard of the mile high club?" Veronica asked. Abby looked at her confused.



"The what?" Abby asked.



"The mile high club. You rent a private plane and have sex at 10,000 feet. I'm telling you, it's pretty hot," Veronica explained. Abby thought about the idea.



"That does sound good but I'm afraid I get sick from altitude. I almost threw up all over John when we flew to Oklahoma to get my Mom. He offered to hold the barf bag for me," Abby said.



"Now, that's true love," Veronica joked.



"Where else?" Abby urged. She was beginning to feel a little needy and wanted to hear about Veronica's wild life. Her own had been relatively boring in comparison.



"Oh, an amusement park, the Ferris wheel at night can be quite a turn on." Veronica said.



Abby blushed, as she thought about of getting John in a Ferris wheel. Navy Pier instantly came to mind.



"Sometimes, when I bring his laundry down here, I find one of his t-shirts and just smell it," Abby admitted.



"Brandon told me he did the same thing while he stayed with us. He does have a smell all his own, doesn't he?" Veronica could tell that Abby was getting turned on, by the way she shifted her hips. She hopped off the washer and walked slowly towards the young nurse as Abby had her eyes closed, thinking of John's scent. Abby jumped when she felt Veronica's hands on her knees.



"Jesus, you startled me." Abby laughed, shifting her weight. Veronica slowly spread her knees apart and put herself between them. She leaned in close to Abby.



"You want to know where else is a hot place to have sex in?" Veronica whispered, teasing Abby by bringing her mouth just centimeters from Abby's lips.



"What if someone comes in?" Abby whispered as she felt herself beginning to get wet.



"What if someone does?" Veronica teased, bringing her mouth just in front of Abby's breasts, close enough for Abby to feel her hot breath.



"Oh, Veronica." Abby heard herself exclaim breathlessly as Veronica's lips were mere millimeters from Abby's neck, not touching her, just her warm breath on her skin.



"I bet if I placed my mouth against you, you'd be dripping." Veronica teased, nipping at Abby's neck but barely touching. She heard Abby catch her breath.



"We've got to hurry," Abby gasped, her breath coming in short pants. Veronica began running a finger down Abby's forehead, down her nose, and over her full pouty lips. Abby opened her mouth slightly, her tongue flicking against Veronica's finger.



"I bet when you get down here with his laundry," Veronica sucked Abby's erect nipple through her t-shirt, moistening the material and making Abby gasp. "I bet you find yourself dripping with desire as you smell the fibers of his clothes." Veronica's hands held Abby's legs wider. Abby leaned back, propping herself up with her own arms.



"Oh, God, Veronica," Abby moaned, almost frantically moving Veronica so she could get a leg out of her pants. The second she did, she spread herself again for her seducer. Veronica held her knees apart wider, stretching Abby almost to the point of pain as Abby offered herself to Veronica's waiting mouth.



"So wet," Veronica ran her tongue along the inside of Abby's center.



"Oh, shit!" Abby cursed at the jerk her body did the minute Veronica hit her clitoris. "Fast! I need you fast!" She urged. Veronica did not need any convincing. She slid her tongue inside the nurse and her thumb began to roughly manipulate Abby's clitoris. It only took moments before Abby was squealing and moaning and begging for more. "Oh, God, yes. Oh, oh, yes, please, oh, God, oh fuck!" Abby yelled as her hips bucked up and she held Veronica's head tight. Veronica kept licking through her entire orgasm. Finally, Abby's breathing calmed and primary language skills returned. Abby quickly slid her leg back through her pants and fastened them.



"Quick enough?" Veronica smiled. Abby walked up to her and wrapped her arms around Veronica's neck, drawing the taller woman in for a passionate kiss. Abby slowly backed Veronica up against the washer.



"You have a way about you, Veronica." Abby pressed her body up against the older woman, her hands going to her breasts. Veronica's hands ran through Abby's hair. Abby brought one of her hands down Veronica's body, caressing it's way further until she reached the hem of Veronica's dress. Their mouths and hands were all over each other as the washing machine vibrated against Veronica's body. Abby slid her hand under Veronica's dress, feeling moist curls of hair.

"Oh, yes, Abby," Veronica urged, thrusting her hips towards Abby's hand. Just as Abby began to separate her folds, they both heard the elevator gate open and someone whistling. They pulled away from each other quickly.



"Oh, hey, Abby, laundry day for you, too, huh?" A handsome young man said, bringing his load of clothes in, completely unaware of what had been going on, he began to empty his pillowcase of cloths into an empty washer. Just then, Abby's washers came to a loud halt.



"Looks like we're done," Veronica pouted.



"Looks that way," Abby grinned holding back her laughter. She began to pull out the freshly washed linens. Veronica helped since the young man had made himself at home in the same exact place she and Abby had just had sex in.



"Think he'd help us out?" Veronica whispered, tossing clothes into the dryer. Abby hushed her.



"Now that would be cheating," Abby replied playfully.



"Not if we took him upstairs to the boys," Veronica suggested.



"I'm afraid we'd get left out. That's Jimmy, our resident homosexual," Abby whispered back.



"Oh, really," Veronica said, taking a step towards the young man oblivious to their conversation.



Abby pulled her back. "Will you stop?" Abby laughed.



Veronica put on her best puppy dog look and Abby thought she was almost as good as John. "No way!" Abby scolded as they placed all the laundry in the dryer.



"So, Jimmy, what sort of work do you do?" Veronica teased, talking to him as if she had known him all his life. Abby just watched and rolled her eyes at Veronica.



To be continued…….

When the girls finally returned to the apartment they walked in and saw the bedroom door closed. Veronica motioned for Abby to take the stuff to her room for now. Brandon had told her that John wanted the furniture to be a surprise so she had an idea.



"Abby, lets just start in here." Veronica began to strip off all the bedding from Abby's bed. She pulled out the cleaned sheets for it while Abby went to work replacing pillowcases and helped Veronica make the bed with the new bedding.



"I'll take care of this stuff later," Abby said as she picked up the old linens and tossed them in the closet.



Abby was changing the curtains when Veronica said she would be right back.

~~~~~~~~~



"Hey, are you boys in there?" Veronica asked as she knocked on the door. Reaching for the handle she started to open it when she heard John answer.



"Hold on, I'm coming," he called back. Veronica giggled as she waited for him. John opened the door, buttoning his jeans, still looking sleepy and disheveled.



"Coming huh," Veronica teased as she ran a finger over his groin causing him to blush.



"Where's Abby?" He looked around for her as he came out of the bedroom, still pulling on his shirt.



"She's busy, but I have an idea. Would you take Abby and go pick up something for dinner?" She batted her long blonde eyelashes at him.



"We could just call and have something delivered." John took a look at his watch. "It's still a bit early don't you think?"



"No, John, I think the two of you need to go spend a little time together. Just go have a little fun and bring home some food. Oh, and maybe some ice cream with all the toppings." She ran her finger along his jawbone seductively.



Abby came out of the room and locked arms with him.



"Veronica is kicking us out," he leaned down and kissed her.



"Yes, I am," she nodded toward Abby. "I want you two to go enjoy yourselves for a while."



"Okay, just let me grab my shoes," he smiled. Sneaking back into his room so Abby would not see inside, he wanted to keep his surprise until after dinner.



"But what about...,"Abby whispered to Veronica.



"Not to worry. Just go have some fun."

~~~~~~~~~~



Veronica waited for John and Abby to leave and went in to lie down next to her sleeping husband.



"Hey, Baby, wake up we have work to do," Veronica whispered, lightly shaking Brandon.



Brandon rolled over slowly, allowing the sheet to fall from his body. He stood and picked his pants and shorts up from the floor and put them on watching Veronica watching him. He leaned across the bed and began to pull the covers up, in an effort to straighten out the bedcovers, when Veronica grabbed hold of them and stripped them completely off the bed. She smiled at Brandon as she asked him to remove the curtains. She gathered up all the bedding and put them in Abby's closet.



"Put those in the other closet." She told Brandon as she returned with several bags of folded linens. First she pulled out the drapes and shook them out. She handed them to Brandon and directed him as to how to hang them.



Brandon just laughed. 'What is it with women that they don't think a man would know how to hang drapes?' He thought, knowing that it was so not worth getting into as he just followed her orders.



Veronica asked Brandon for his help removing the mattress and spread out the hunter green dust ruffle. As he went back to the drapes, she put on the extra thick mattress cover, followed by the sheets. The only blanket she kept of John's was a lightweight cotton quilt that he had between his sheet and comforter. After spreading out the new comforter, she zipped the new feather pillows into the slipcovers and shook them into the new pillowcases. Covering the old pillows with the thick shams, she arranged them all on the bed along with several small throw pillows that matched the new comforter.



"So Abby still doesn't know anything about the furniture?" Brandon asked.



"Nope, not a clue," she shook her head.



Veronica went to the broom closet and took out the vacuum and ran it quickly over the carpet picking up small pieces of lint from the new linens. She had Brandon go down to the car and bring up the boxes with the lamps. She removed the old lamps and placed the large cream-colored doilies on each one of the tables, having Brandon place a new lamp on each side of the bed.



She spread out a long dresser scarf on the top of both John and Abby's dressers and set out a beautiful ornate crystal bowl filled with exotic massage oils and lotions. She had a crystal vase with an arrangement of white silk roses placed on Abby's vanity along with the candles from the night before, which she placed around the room.



Veronica still had the duvet cover which she took into the living room and used to cover that old blanket that hung on the back of the couch.



Brandon and Veronica turned on some music and sat in the living room cuddled up on the couch together.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



John and Abby drove out to the lake, after a short walk around the park they decided it was too damn cold to enjoy the outdoors. Instead they decided to go hang out in the mall. It would be a lot warmer and Veronica had told John to take his time so he figured that she was up to something and wanted them to stay away for a while.



As they strolled around, the first stop they made was a shoe store. "Abby, I need a new pair of tennis shoes for work." John exclaimed as he walked inside. He quickly picked out what he wanted as the salesman got him his requested size. He sat down and tried them on. Abby was looking at a pair of black pumps.



"Do you like those?" he asked looking over her shoulder.



"Oh, I was just looking," Abby smiled and looked back at him.



"Try them on," he coaxed.



"John, I don't want you to think that you have to buy me stuff." Abby thought about the idea that Veronica had said that he paid for all the shopping they had done the day before.



"Abby, I don't think I have to. I just want to. If you like the shoes try them on." He leaned down and kissed her. Abby wasn't used to men lavishing so much attention on her. Even while just living together John had always spent more than his share on the bills, groceries and was always bringing her little things 'for the house,' he would say.



Abby did like the shoes and even though she didn't wear dresses a lot she was beginning to get the feeling that she would be again soon if John had anything to say about it. John bought the shoes and they left the store.



"John, if you really want to buy me something, I lost my 'Life House' CD," she said pulling him into a music store. He smiled as he remembered that she was playing that CD the night he took her to the history museum. He had never forgotten that because that was how he had always felt, like they where 'hanging by a moment.' Together they picked out several CD's and again John just handed his credit card to the salesclerk.



Next they stopped in front of a toy store and without even thinking, John started to wander inside.



"Why are we going in here?" Abby asked. She looked at John who just looked back at her with a big smile on his face.



"Because it's fun?" He answered as if it had been a quiz and he was unsure of the answer. Abby just watched him in amusement as he played with various items. First he had stacked a few Lincoln Logs together that sat on a display shelf, and then checked out a toy microscope.



"I always wondered what this stuff was made of." He stretched a piece of Silly Putty and looked at it through the microscope. "Or like this stuff." He poured the Gloop into his hand, squishing it around. He returned it to its container and put it back on the shelf. He picked up a video game and in a matter of minutes was totally absorbed.



Abby picked up a Nerf dart gun and loaded it with a dart; aiming it right at his heart she let it fly.



"Hey, that's no fair," he pouted as he handed her back the dart.



"Fair? I thought all was fair in love and war." She beamed as she reached up and kissed him. He just went back to his video game.



Abby picked up a Hoola Hoop and stepped into it. Twirling her hips in circles until she had it going, "Carter, hey check this out."



He just looked at her and rolled his eyes, going back to his game.



"You must have been one boring kid." She took the video from him and pulled him out of the store. "You're lucky you're not this boring in bed, mister."



John picked up his pace as he tried to ignore what she said.



"John.... John." Abby stopped in the middle of the mall and watched as he just kept going. "Shit, why does he do this?" She mumbled to herself. She decided that maybe he just needed to blow off some steam or something.



It took John several seconds before he realized that Abby was no longer walking with him. Her remark had cut him deeply as he thought of the fact that he couldn't even remember ever being a kid. He closed his eyes tightly against the 'bad' memories. He was not going to let anything ruin his chances with Abby.



He turned around to see her sitting by herself on a bench. He went back and joined her, stretching his long legs. They both sat silently for a minute. Abby turned to John and took his hand as she sat there thinking of how easily her comment had set him off. She also thought about the sexual harassment seminar and how even though he had started off in a pissy mood, she could tell that at times he still managed to try and join in on the conversation.



Something about that day had stuck in her mind and the more she thought about it, the more she knew that something just wasn't right. She had also noticed that there were times when he seemed lost, as if he was fighting with everything within him to remain in control.



"John, can I ask you something very personal?" She looked into his deep brown eyes as they stared back at her. She saw him swallow hard as if he was unsure.



"I guess," he answered just shaking his head, afraid of what it might be that she wanted to know. He knew that in order to make this work he needed to be perfectly honest with her as much as he possibly could.



"About the seminar, well, first I want to apologize. I was really mean to you and said some pretty nasty things that I shouldn't have. I just want to say that I'm really sorry." She placed her palm on his cheek as he moved to kiss her hand.



"Forget about it, okay?" John looked at her, fearing that this conversation had only just begun.



"No, it's not okay, I've been thinking about what you said, about giving you such a hard time about your upbringing and all and you're right, I have no idea what it was like for you."



John sat quietly for a moment. He really didn't know how to respond to that. After all, he had met her mother and had a pretty good idea of what she had lived through and it made his problems seem petty in comparison.



"John, about only being 11, I realized that we were all stupid not to pick up on the fact that there was something definitely wrong with that picture."



"Abby, please, this is not the time or place for us to be discussing that." His eyes begged her to drop the subject. He couldn't talk about that, not now, not here, maybe not ever, he just couldn't. Ever since all those memories had come flooding back he had tried hard to bury them once again.



"John, I don't want you to feel like you can't talk to me about whatever is bothering you."



"Come on, Abby I need to pick up some underwear." John said the first thing he could think of just to get her to stop. He got up and picked up the various packages they had collected and walked towards a men's clothing store. Inside he went straight for the rack of flannel boxers and picked out several pairs. He also found a couple pairs of flannel pajama pants. He liked these a lot better that regular pajama bottoms because they didn't have the slit to have to worry about when he wore them in front of Abby, not that he had to worry about that any more.



"What about these?" Abby held up a pair of silk boxers, red with white kisses and hearts on them. She could see that 'lost' look again and his effort to rise above whatever was bothering him as she made an effort to cheer him up.



"No way." He shook his head.



"Oh come on, didn't you see what Brandon had on this morning?" She smiled and handed him the shorts.



"Whatever," he replied, grabbing an assortment of socks. He hated this part of shopping but figured that since he was here and doing it he might as well get everything he needed.



As John and Abby passed by a jewelry store, John stopped and went back. Something had caught his eye and he wanted a better look. The front display had an assortment of wedding sets. Abby noticed right away what he was looking at and immediately went over to another case looking at a rather large selection of diamond heart pendants.



John leaned over her shoulder to see what she was looking at. "Which one do you like?" he asked as he gestured towards the saleswoman to open the case.



"John, no, they are too expensive and you have to stop buying me everything that I look at or I'm not going shopping with you ever again." She walked off down the center isle of the mall.



John quickly picked out one of the pendants handed to the woman with his card and asked her to please hurry. As soon as she had his signature he asked her to wrap it up and he would be right back. Thinking that it was probably too soon to be thinking of asking her to marry him he really wanted to get her something special.



John ran to catch up with Abby. She was leaning with her back against a display window in from of a bridal shop. John looked at the dress and sighed. Somehow he was beginning to believe that this was all just a big mistake, maybe just a dream, he really hoped that is wasn't.



What was wrong with him that the only women that ever wanted him were those who were after what he had but every woman he had ever wanted seemed to despise him because of what he had? He leaned against the wall next to Abby not knowing what to say.



"Do you want to get something to eat?" Abby asked thinking that maybe he would be hungry by now.



"No, not really, do you?" He questioned back as he reached out to hold her hand. He wanted so badly for this to work out. He knew that he loved Abby and he wanted to believe her when she said she loved him.



"I'm not really hungry but I could use something to drink," Abby answered.



"Veronica wants us to pick something up for dinner and she wants makings for ice cream sundaes." John explained.



"Ohhh, sounds like fun." They both headed for the food court.



John stopped in front of a small booth that served Fruit Smoothies. He ordered an orange, banana, and pineapple. Abby just looked at him puzzled.

John handed her a $20.00 bill and handed her the shopping bags.



"Will you get this for me and get whatever you want; I need to use the bathroom." He took off in a hurry and headed back to the jewelry store where the woman had his gift all wrapped up in shiny gold paper with a big silver bow. He tucked it inside his jacket pocket and went to the bathroom.



Abby got herself a soda and sat in a booth with all of the shopping bags. While she waited for John to return, a young man approached her and invited himself to sit with her.



"Excuse me, but I don't know you and I'm with someone, so you can't sit there, sir." Abby nervously tucked a piece of hair behind her ear trying to be as polite as possible.


"My name is Tom and I don't see anyone else here, I was just wondering if maybe you would like to go get a drink with me?" He smiled broadly as he ignored her reluctance.



"Well, Tom, like I said, I'm with someone and would appreciate it if you left me alone." Her voice cracked a bit as she looked around. 'Where the hell was John? How long can it take to go pee?' She thought as she tried to ignore this man that was beginning to annoy her.



"Come on, just one drink, and if you still want me to leave I will, I promise." He leaned forward and tried to hold her hand.



"No, I think you'll leave the lady alone now," John said, taking Abby's hand and picking up the packages.



"Are you okay?" John asked her after they had walked away from the man.



"Yeah, I'm fine. But I think your smoothie is melted," she smiled, handing him the drink.



"That's okay, now it's a slushy," he grinned back, watching her out of the corner of his eye as they walked out of the mall.



"I guess we have to go to a supermarket now," he opened up the back of his Jeep to load their packages.



"Oh yes, ice cream," Abby teased. "What are we getting for dinner? She asked handing him the last bag.



"I was thinking of tacos," he said. "We have to go to the store anyway and I just feel like tacos."



"So, does that mean that you're cooking?" She teased him.



"Yes, okay so I can't warm milk without burning it, but I can cook, Abby," he grinned sarcastically.



"I know," she smiled over at him.





To be continued...............

John pulled the jeep into the parking lot and together they went into the supermarket. Abby grabbed a cart and they playfully argued over who got to push it. He stood with one foot on the bottom and used the other to push away like a scooter. Abby stood with her hands on her hips as she watched him sail off with the cart.



John was picking out an assortment of various ice-cream toppings when Abby slid herself between him and the shelf pressing her hand along his groin she flashed him a wicked grin.



"Veronica said that she has had sex in a grocery store before," Abby winked.



"Oh, God... Abby...please don't," he groaned in a whisper, taking her hand away and willing his body to behave itself. He kissed her hand and wrapped his arms around her pulling tightly against him.



"Come on, John, live a little," she teased as her hands began to fumble with his belt.



"No, Abby, I grew up in this city." He held her hand away from him and looked around nervously. "Have you even noticed how many people know me when we go places and most of them are friends of my grandmother's?" He held her closely against his chest leaning over to kiss her.



Abby had noticed that even in the mall at least 3 people had momentarily spoken to John, asking him how Millicent was doing.



"Well, let's get this shopping over with so that we can head home," she teased him running a finger along his groin, leaving him wanting her as much as she wanted him.



"Okay, ice-cream," he thought trying to think of something cold.



"Shall we get a big one," Abby pulled a 5-quart tub of Vanilla out of the freezer.



"Is there room in our freezer for that?" John laughed.



Just as Abby was about to put the ice cream in the cart, they both turned to the sound of a familiar voice calling out to them.



"Yo, Hoss, Abby, hey what's up guys?" Dave came towards them. He frowned as John and Abby started to bust out laughing.



"What's so damn funny?" He asked, wondering why they were laughing.



"Nothing, Dave, nothing at all. So how are you?" John was still unable to completely stop laughing. The thought of almost being caught by Malucci in a grocery store with Abby, now that was funny.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Abby kicked the door with her foot hoping that Brandon or Veronica would hear her knock. She and John each had their arms full with groceries and they hadn't even begun to bring up the stuff from the mall.



"What did you two do, buy out the grocery store?" Brandon asked opening the door and grabbing a couple of bags from Abby.



John placed his armload on the breakfast island and dragged Brandon back down to the Jeep to get the rest.



"There's more?" Veronica asked as she went to help Abby in the kitchen.



Abby put the ice cream in the freezer and was sorting out the stuff for tacos, leaving them out on the counter. She found a round tray and placed the toppings for sundaes on it and set it aside for later.



"What do you want help with here?" Veronica offered as she put milk and soda into the refrigerator.



"Nothing. John said he wanted tacos and said he was going to cook them," Abby smiled as Veronica stared back at her. They had just finished putting away the rest of the groceries when Abby headed for John's bedroom.



"Oh, I can't wait to see how John's room turned out." Abby spoke excitedly.



"Hold on there," Veronica smiled as she quickly blocked Abby's entrance. "Don't you want to wait for John?"



"I just want to see," Abby pouted as she reached around Veronica for the door handle.



Veronica leaned over and captured Abby's mouth and began kissing her. Abby melted under her touch as her hands roamed Veronica's back. Veronica had her hands tangled in Abby's hair as they held each other close, continuing to taste and tease each other.



They suddenly broke apart hearing John and Brandon come back with the remaining shopping bags.



"Can't leave you two alone for five minutes, can we?" Brandon teased as he dropped the packages at the door and gathered them both into him arms leading them away from the bedroom door and toward the couch.



Veronica and Abby both blushed as they sat together on the love seat and smiled at the guys. John looked a bit nervous as he started for his room. Brandon stood in his way and took the shopping bags from him.



"Come, on and sit down with us, John," he offered wrapping his hand around his waist.



"I will, I need to use the bathroom," John explained as he tried to pull away from Brandon's embrace.



"John, you can use my bathroom," Abby pointed across the room. John just rolled his eyes as he realized that there was more going on here than he knew about.



After rejoining the others, John went into the kitchen and started on dinner.



"I didn't expect you to cook for us. I thought you would just pick up some take out." Brandon said as he joined him in the kitchen.



"Hey, it's no problem. I just thought since we had to go to the supermarket anyway that this would be easy enough." John shrugged as he placed the ground round into the skillet, browning it while he chopped onions and peppers to add to it.



"Besides, I cheated," John, smiled as he showed Brandon the already made taco shells and pre-shredded cheese. While the meat cooked, he started preparing the toppings, chopping up lettuce and tomatoes.



"You do like tacos, don't you? Because we can still order out for something different if you'd prefer." John turned with the knife in his hand and faced Brandon.



"Yeah, sure, I love tacos. I just wasn't expecting you to cook that's all." He exclaimed. Brandon watched John staring at the knife.



"Are you okay?" Brandon stepped forward, took the knife from him and laid it on the counter. John shook his head as if he had just returned to reality.



"Yeah, I'm fine," he shuddered, shaking off the cold memories that threatened to return. He picked up the spatula and stirred the meat mixture. He drained off the excess grease and began adding spices and tomato sauce, then set it to simmer.



John started taking out plates and silverware and set them on the table. He opened a can of sliced black olives, dumped them in a small bowl and set them out with the other bowls of toppings.



Brandon got out the soda and filled glasses with ice. John poured the finished meat mixture in a glass dish and placed it on the center of the table.



"Okay, girls, dinner is served," he announced.



They all sat down and enjoyed their meal together.



"These are really good, John," Brandon complimented.



"Yeah, thank you, John," Veronica chimed in. "They really are very good. I have to admit that I'm impressed. I didn't know that you could cook."



"So, I guess this means I'll be doing the dishes," Abby said as John ran his hand along her thigh, leaning down to kiss her neck.



"That's okay, Abby, I'll take care of it this time," John offered. "But don't get used to it." He laughed.



"Yeah, we sort of have this rule when we are both home. Whoever cooks, the other cleans," Abby explained as she noticed the puzzled look on both Veronica and Brandon's faces.



Veronica noticed that all through dinner John and Abby keep stealing glances toward the bedroom and she could tell that they were both getting anxious.



"I think that the kitchen can wait a while, I think that the anticipation as to what is behind door number 1 is getting to all of us," Veronica smiled.

~~~~~~~~~~~~



"Okay, both of you close your eyes," Veronica led Abby as Brandon led John into the bedroom. As soon as they were inside, Veronica told them they could look.



They both looked around totally dumbfounded. Neither one of them knew what to say.



"Oh, my God, John, what is all this?" Abby asked, shocked at the various new pieces of furniture obviously meant for her.



"It's nice, really nice," John choked out the words as he took in all the lace and doilies that littered his room. He wasn't expecting any of this since Abby had never had anything to overly feminine in her room and even though he expected it to be a bit different; he did not expect this at all.



"You don't like it, do you? Its okay, we can change it." Abby promised as she saw the look of sheer surprise on his face.



"No, no, you don't have to change a thing, well, one thing maybe." John's smile lit up his face.



"And what's that?" Abby looked at him puzzled.



"I think that there's something missing from my bed." John picked Abby up and laid her down on the bed, crawling over her body. He leaned down and began kissing her neck.



"John, please, I just ate." Abby gasped as she playfully rolled away from him.



"Stay right there," John got up and went into the living room to retrieve his coat. Abby stared in surprise as she saw him sit opposite her on the bed and hand her a long narrow gift box wrapped in gold and silver.



"Abby, I love you, and I want us to be together for a long, long time. This is just a token of my love, something for you to wear everyday and to remind you of my love for you." John waited anxiously as she opened the box.



"John?" Abby wanted to protest, but when she looked into his eyes and saw right through to his heart. "Thank you, Baby." She took the pendant out, put in on and knelt up on the bed leaning towards him. They were soon lost to the world.



Veronica took Brandon by the hand and led him out. "I think we're cleaning the kitchen, my dear," she said as they closed the door behind them.



"But I helped cook," Brandon protested.

~~~~~~~~~~



About an hour later, John and Abby emerged from the bedroom; John was wearing a pair of sweat pants and Abby was wearing John's T-shirt. Their hair was totally askew as they wandered out laughing at a private joke. John headed straight for the kitchen and took out a couple of bottled waters from the refrigerator.



Abby sat on the loveseat alongside Veronica. Brandon got up off of the couch and motioned John to join him. John handed Abby a bottle of water and sat down gulping his down as if he hadn't drank anything all day.



"Sorry you guys, we didn't mean to neglect you." Abby leaned her sated body against Veronica who had begun smoothing down her wild hair-do.



"Hey, it's no problem, Abby." Veronica reassured her. "Don't let us stand in the way of love in full bloom. The two of you have waited for this for a very long time, so if you feel the need to be with each other, then do it." She smiled at both of them.



John leaned back in his corner of the couch looking content, finishing the last of his water.



"You weren't thirsty, were you?" Brandon teased as he squeezed John's knee, getting a kick in the side of his hip from John as he jumped in surprise.



"Very," John mumbled, barely over a whisper. He was just too relaxed to think past a one-word response. He stretched his long legs out across Brandon's lap.



"Oh, nothing like making yourself comfy," Brandon continued his playful banter as he ran his finger along the bottom of John's foot making him flinch. Brandon couldn't help but smile watching Abby, content as a kitten, while Veronica stroked her hair.



"You two are pathetic; you know that, don't you?" Brandon got up and went to the refrigerator for a soda. "Roni, do you want anything?" He asked from the kitchen.



"Actually we got up to come have ice cream with you guys." John jumped up from the couch and joined Brandon in the kitchen.



"Well, don't think you have to on our account." Brandon smiled as he pulled John into his arms. "If you would rather spend time with Abby, please feel free to do so." Brandon patted down a few stray hairs.



"Oh, no I was really looking forward to the ice cream sundaes," Abby chimed in as she got up to join the guys. She reached into the freezer and pulled out the tub of vanilla. "Besides I think we're going to need some help with this."



John began to get out bowls, spoons, and the ice cream scoop. Brandon set the tray with the topping on the center of the table. Abby started using the edge if the spoon to slice a banana, only using half of it she offered the other half to John. They always shared a banana when making splits.



"That's not how you slice the banana in half," Veronica said holding her banana and waving it toward Abby. Abby paid no mind to her, her attention was fixed on John.



Abby scooped up some ice cream and dumped it on top of the banana chunks in both her bowl and John's. John in turn poured chocolate syrup on both. Veronica and Brandon watched in amusement as the two made their desserts together as if they had been doing this for years. When they were finished, each bowl was exactly alike, both having only a small amount of chocolate syrup, a few chopped peanuts, whipped cream, and a cherry with lots of sprinkles.



Brandon laughed as the two sat side by side and began feeding each other.



"What the hell are you laughing at?" John asked as he smiled at Brandon.



"Nothing, nothing at all," Brandon raised his arms in mock defense.



"John, why did you buy all these different toppings if all you use is the chocolate one?" Veronica pointed out all the bottles on the tray.



"Because you said to buy stuff for sundaes and since I didn't know what you two liked, I bought several." John never took his eyes off Abby as he dipped his finger into the whipped cream and offered it to her. She licked the sweet cream from him, sucking his fingers into her mouth.



John had scooted Abby onto his lap with Abby's legs wrapped around him.

Abby scooped up a piece of banana and fed it to him as Brandon reached across the table and drizzled chocolate syrup down John's bare arm.



"Damn that's cold!" John jumped and furrowed his brow at Brandon, holding onto Abby so she wouldn't fall. Abby leaned closer and began licking the sticky goo off of him.



"Brandon, leave them alone," Veronica, scolded as she swatted him across the arm. She leaned over and offered him a cherry, placing it in her cleavage and pressing herself against him. Brandon met Veronica's gaze and accepted the cherry, licking the sticky red syrup from her breasts.



The rest of their sundae was quickly abandoned as John and Abby began kissing and nibbling each other's neck. John stood, bringing Abby along with him. She wrapped her arms and legs around him.



"Excuse us guys," John mumbled and he picked up the can of whipped cream and carried it and Abby into his bedroom. His erection very obvious as they left the room.



"I guess we're on our own," Veronica cooed pulling Brandon closer, wiping a glob of ice cream onto his lips and licking it off.



"We'll just have to find something to do." Brandon muttered wrapping his arms around her.



Veronica put the ice cream in the freezer and led Brandon to the guestroom.



To be continued…………..

Abby rolled over in bed and smiled. There was nothing like the feeling of new sheets. She had a feeling that someone was watching her and she slowly opened one eye. John smiled sleepily, making her blush.



"Hi." He said, stroking her hair off her face. He leaned forward to give her a kiss but Abby backed away, covering her mouth.



"What?" He asked, a bit shocked. Abby laughed and tried to get out of bed.



"Come on, John, let me go." She laughed as he playfully held onto her waist. "I've got to go brush my teeth," she laughed.



"Come here." He succeeded in pulling her back into an embrace, kissing her face playfully. Abby could smell mint.



"What are you eating?" She questioned. John smiled and stuck out his tongue, showing her the half dissolved mint.



"You cheated," she laughed.



He shook his head. "I don't like bad breath." He reached into the nightstand drawer. He held out a pack of mints. "Want one?" He shook the tin.



"What makes you think I want to stay in bed with you?" She teased, sitting up.



"It's cold out there," he sulked, tossing the mints in her lap and rolling over, pulling the covers up around his shoulder.



"Jesus, John. I was kidding." Abby sighed. "Man, you can be so moody!" She exclaimed, flopping back down onto the pillow.



"Sorry," he mumbled; his back still turned to her. Abby rolled over, spooning up against his back, wrapping her arm over his ribs.



"Don't pull away from me, please." Abby nibbled his ear, feeling his body relax under her touch.



"I'm not moody," he grumbled playfully.



"The hell you aren't! I've never seen anyone as moody as you!" She tickled his side and he pulled away, laughing. He turned over so that he was facing her and picked up the tin of mints, popping one in his mouth. Abby took one while he had it open.



"I guess I've always been sort of moody," he shrugged. "Been that way since I was little," he admitted.



"Since your brother died?" Abby asked. John rolled over to return the mints to the nightstand. He stayed on his back, staring at the ceiling. Abby reached out for his stomach and he pulled away sharply.



"Don't," he said quietly.



"John, why do you always do that?" She said in a soothing voice. She wasn't upset. She had just noticed his severe ups and downs ever since they'd moved in with each other.



"Do what?" He sat on the edge of the bed, holding the sheet over his lap. He fumbled with a condom pack that sat on top of the table.



"Pull away. You totally withdraw sometimes and I'm just trying to understand you. You do it at work, too. You avoid confrontation, you change the subject when it gets too personal and you have this total act that you put on for people. You know, I really don't know anything about you." She complained.



"What do you want to know, Abby?" he asked, sounding almost hurt. She hugged him from behind.



"I want to know it all, John. Every thought, every memory, every desire and heartache. I love you and I need to know everything there is to know." She stated from the heart.



"No, you don't." He shook his head. Abby crawled to sit next to him, picking up his shirt from the floor and she put it on.



"Yes, I do. You're not the only one who has had anything bad happen to him. Come on, I've told you about Maggie and how it was growing up with her. I've told you stories about Eric and Richard. I can't recall you ever telling me any childhood stories about you. You never even mention your sister. John, I need to know what you see when you close your eyes. I need to find out what sets you off and how to bring you back to me. For once in your life, you have got to let someone in and be willing to risk feeling something other than pain." Abby pleaded.



John got up and walked into the bathroom. She could hear him turn the shower on. Abby flopped back down in the bed. "You know what, John? I say we go back to being just friends. Screw this whole thing, okay?" She got up quickly and began to put on the pair of sweat pants that lay next to the bed.



"At least when we were friends, you talked to me. The past couple days, you've gone up and down so much I feel like you're going to break at any minute. I don't want to be the one to break you, John. Those women in the past may have been okay to do that to you but not me. I won't." She went around the room, picking up a T-shirt here, finding a sock there, purposely not looking toward the bathroom door. She couldn't because she knew he was there.



John stood in the bathroom, looking in the mirror. The same old face stared back at him, the one who had been laughing at him for years now. 'Here you go again.' The voice inside his head began. 'Push her away like you've pushed all the others away. You know you don't deserve a woman like Abby. She's too good for you. Abby Lockhart is someone who would never love you if she found out. No one would ever love you if they only knew what went on inside your head. You're losing your mind again, John. You'll always be alone.'



"Will you fucking shut up?" He yelled, punching the bathroom mirror with every ounce of strength he had in him, shattering the glass and sending splinters flying out at him.



Abby stopped cold. Had he just told her to shut up? And what was that sound? Did he break the mirror? She tentatively walked to the doorway, fearfully peeking inside.



John sat on the floor on the far end of the bathroom, holding his towel-covered hand. Abby looked at the shattered mirror. Then she noticed the blood.



"What the hell did you do?" Abby yelled, totally shocked. John winced from the shrillness in her voice. Abby began to go to John when she heard a loud knock on the bedroom door.



"You two okay in there?" Brandon asked.



"We're fine, Brandon." She called, seeing the blood soaking through the bath towel. She was instantly down on the floor in front of him. "John, what happened? Did you break the mirror? Were you talking to me when you told me to shut up?" She flooded him with questions, concerned more about the blank look she saw on his face than for his injured hand. He blinked a time or two and slowly looked up at her.



"What?" He asked, looking right past her. A chill ran up Abby's arms.



"John! John! Come on, Baby, it's me." She shook him enough to get his focus to finally return to her face.



"Abby?" He asked, becoming aware that he'd done it again.



Abby sighed and sat next to him.



"Damn, John." She stated, placing her head on her knees. She'd only seen him do this one time before, back when they'd first moved in together. It had happened after they'd worked a particularly hard shift, lots of heartache and had gone to a meeting. As they sat there listening to someone's story, Abby felt John begin to withdraw emotionally. The story they listened to was very sad, about a lifetime of abuse and it touched both of them in different ways.



Walking home, John seemed almost paranoid, glancing behind him, wary of people on the streets. When they arrived home, he locked himself into his room and Abby didn't see him again for days.



Abby had noticed his strange behavior beginning soon after he'd seen Sobriki at the hospital. Most of the changes were subtle, hard to notice. The way he ran into the arms of Susan, who was a protector from his past. The sarcasm and the way he'd treated Abby, pushing her farther and farther away. The way his entire male support system left him one by one. The way he was able to totally release himself with Veronica and Brandon. And the emotional roller coaster ride he began as soon as the euphoria of his eye-opening week began to wear off.



Most of the changes were hard to see until they moved in together. While their relationship had been strained, it caught Abby off guard when they suddenly found themselves living together. But Abby quickly pushed her apprehensions aside when she discovered what a wonderful roommate and friend John had become. They returned to their light banter, talking late into the night. Well, Abby thought, it was her talking and John listening. John never spoke about himself. John was always doing sweet and thoughtful things for her like bringing home flowers or leaving 'happy' notes for her when he left for work.



But Abby soon began to see another side to John that she had almost forgotten about. They would have weeks of pure joy and out of nowhere, John would become depressed and hide away in his room. His appetite would all but disappear and he'd stop taking his calls. Then, like turning on a light switch, he'd act perfectly normal at work.



There were warning signs that Abby was learning to pick up on. When John didn't want to speak to his grandmother on the phone, John was dealing with personal issues. When he quit eating, it was usually followed with barricading himself in his room. So, when he was feeling social, such as bringing a movie home or stopping for dinner after a meeting, Abby learned to enjoy the good times for what they were. When they moved all the furniture and turned on the music, Abby was totally in love with the charismatic man she lived with. Luckily, the good times greatly outweighed the bad ones and Abby was used to living like this.



John had been able to keep his mood swings private, that is, until they attended the sexual harassment training. The entire day, John was being unusually moody and hinted at many personal things that Abby had never known. Abby was smart enough to begin to pick up on a pattern.



"John, I can't do this." She said, emotionally drained. He looked at her, total fear in his eyes. He turned his entire body to her, wrapping his good arm over her shoulder.



"Abby, don't do this," he pleaded, "Don't leave me now." He begged, touching her face.



"John, who were you telling to shut up?" She asked. He looked at her confused.



"When?" He honestly had no idea what she was talking about. Abby shook her head. She looked him directly in the eyes.



"John, I love you but we can't do this on our own. You have got me wanting to go get a drink real badly. I'm not strong enough for this right now." She explained, silent tears running down her face. John placed his cheek on her knee. Abby sat stroking his hair for several minutes.



"John I have to tell you the truth, about my relapse. It had nothing to do with my neighbor, not really. The day that Sobricki showed up at the hospital was also my birthday. It was my birthday and the only one who even remembered was my mother. Richard even came by to tell me that he was getting remarried and even he had forgotten. I wanted to go out with you that evening, just have a little fun, but you had your own problems. When I got home Joyce was sitting on the stairs and she offered me a beer. I just couldn't fight the urges any longer. Ever since you told me that you that... that… I was still hung up on Luka and then you went and flung yourself on Susan I just felt so empty inside thinking that I had lost you forever. I tried to still be your friend but you just kept pushing me away. I've tried not to let you. I've tried really hard, but it's getting impossible." Abby started to cry.



John held her tight as if he would never let her go.



"Abby, I'm sorry. I should have warned you. I have these…these sort of... well… I guess you could call them flashbacks. I don't know what sets them off but I swear…" He looked at her, pleading with his eyes. "I would never hurt you. I don't really know what I do. I just usually find myself curled up in the corner, scared and tired. I rarely do something as stupid as..." he held up his hand. "I just couldn't get them to shut up," he whispered.



"Who?" Abby asked, scared for the first real time.



"The voices. Shit, now I sound like Sobriki." He laughed a sort of sick laugh. "Abby, I'm not crazy, am I?" He looked like such a small child. Abby wrapped her arms around him.



"No, Honey, you're not crazy. A bit fucked up, but not crazy." She was thankful to feel his warm breath against her chest as he snorted a laugh. "Okay, Baby, let's see how much damage you did here." Abby pulled away and took gentle hold of his arm. John winced as she pulled the towel away.



"Oh, shit." He grumbled, seeing the bruise covering the back of his hand and the cuts along his knuckles



"This needs stitches," Abby stated. At that, John's head jerked up.



"I'm not going in. I can't, please don't make me, Abby," he begged. Abby thought for a few minutes.



"Maybe I can get Luka to come over." She thought out loud. John shook his head.



"No, call Kerry. She knows Veronica. Kerry will come. She's seen me do this once while I lived with her." He suggested.



"Okay, I'll call Kerry." She slowly stood and helped him to his feet. "Go lie down while I get this cleaned up." She turned off the shower and pushed John out of the bathroom. She helped him get into bed, keeping the towel around his swollen hand. She pulled up the covers and kissed his forehead. "I'll be right back."



Abby came out of the bedroom and as soon as she shut the door, she leaned up against it, letting out a deep breath. Brandon and Veronica were right there.



"What happened?" Veronica asked, seeing how drained Abby looked and seeing blood on the front of her shirt.



Abby looked into her eyes and broke down crying. Veronica led her to the couch as Abby collapsed into her lap, sobbing hard. Veronica and Brandon looked at each other, very concerned. Slowly, she regained her composure, her tears calming. She sat up, wiping them away with the back of her hand.



"Sorry." She forced a smile.



"What happened in there? Is John all right?" Veronica questioned, holding the nurse's face gently. Abby laughed sarcastically.



"He said he couldn't get the voices to shut up." Abby shrugged, another cry escaping her throat.



"Oh, shit." Brandon whispered, hoping Abby couldn't hear. Veronica glanced at her husband.



"Abby, let me go in and talk to him, okay? Make sure he's all right on his own." She said, motioning Brandon to take her place on the couch.



"I have to call Weaver. He's got cuts all over his hand that need stitches and he refuses to go to the hospital. I just hope he didn't break anything because it's already really swollen. He said she'd come over and stitch him up." Abby said, looking around for the phone.





To be continued……………