Love Letter From Peter.

My dear sweet Gabrielle,

It isn't often that I experience a moment of such clarity and illumination as I did repeatedly over the past week; it was the realization, once again, of just how dear you have become to me and how much I miss you every day! I know that this may someday frighten you with the intensity of my feelings and I hope that this is never the case! It is just that in writing to you to express my feelings and hearing in return from you, I feel a fulfillment that I have never truly known before. I realize, my love that I'm very much older than you but this in no way diminishes either my ardor or the way your words stir the heat so deep in my soul. It just gets so hard (even now, as I put these words to paper) and my hands tremble as my heart races; it is almost scary the effect that you have on me, my sweet Gabrielle.

I envision us lying together on our soft bed with our arms around each other and gazing deeply into each other's eyes from our position on the pillows. I can smell the sweetness of the scent from your body as you drape your leg over my thigh. As we touch our lips together in a blessed morning kiss (Oh God- the honey sweet taste of your lips!), you hips move slowly along my legs and your silken smooth pussy rubs against me. You moan softly into my mouth as you start to flow in the first dewy cum of the morning and my legs feels the heat from you.

I raise my hands to cradle the sides of your face and continue to rain ever firmer kisses upon your welcoming lips; our tongues slide slickly along the other! I then lower my head to your shoulder and, cradling me in your arm, you bring your nipple to my straining mouth. I reach up and as you tease my lips with your turgid nip, I lunge just enough to capture it in my mouth. As I suck and nibble until your milk starts its flow into my parched throat, I take your other breast in my hand and gently squeeze it and tease the nipple as your moans are becoming stronger. You have increased the motion of your pussy against my thigh now and are flowing copiously. Your wet, hot pussy is rubbing against the bottom of my soft shaved balls now and, as you reach to highest point of your heaving hips, my rigid cock is stroked by that warm pussy juice!

No longer able to lie still, I lift you up until you are straddling my hips with your wide-spread knees. Your hands are on either side of my head now and I draw you down to bring your lips to mine for long lingering and passionate kisses. As our lips meet, you sway your breasts slowly and the hard nipples rub against my hairless chest bringing them to an even more excited state! The friction causes even more milk to flow; now in almost a constant stream. I lift you upwards to brings your hanging tits over my mouth and, as I look up into your shining eyes, I take each tip in turn between my teeth and pull hard (not enough to hurt you – I would never do that!) but enough to create a nipple-driven orgasm and your cries of joy mingle with mine around your sweet breast!

I lift you up until you are on your knees and I roll to the side of the bed taking you with me. As I sit on the side of the bed, I lift your body until you wrap your legs around my waist. Then, supporting your delightful ass cheeks with my hands, I lower you until the open petals of your pussy just touch the tip of my hard cock! You are streaming cum from your orgasm and it is flowing downwards to cover my cock. Meanwhile, my own precum is lubing your pussy as I ever so slowly lower you until you fully rest with my cock deep inside you! Your legs wrap themselves tighter around my waist as you struggle to rise on my cock but I hold you firmly impaled! I pull you closer to me until our upper bodies are almost as one; your milk-covered tits are pressed firmly against my chest and our nipples are rubbing together – this causes mine to grow hard as eraser tips! As we once again crush our lips together in heated passion, we rub together to create more and more pressure on our nipples and I feel your pussy tightening around my throbbing cock as the tingling in our nipples flows into our joined sexes.

As you start to moan indicating that you are almost there, I lift you with my hands and then lower you in a constant plunging motion of my cock inside your pussy. With your strong legs you are pulling yourself deeper and harder against me each time and we both cry out together as our thrashing bodies are joined in mutual orgasms! Your pussy grips me in multiple spasms as I cum again and again shooting up into you!

Your head falls on my shoulder as you continue to orgasm over and over. I lift you up by standing beside the bed and, turning to lay you on the edge, I lift your legs from around my waist to my shoulders and continue to drive my still hard cock into you until you have cum another three times! I finally manage a small climax and fill you one more time as you spasm one more time!

I gently lower your legs and turn your body until you are resting on your pillow. As you lay there slowly recovering your breath, I move quickly into the bathroom and return with several warm, wet face clothes and proceed to wipe your body clean and sweet as the flower you are. As I reach your hips, you smile and spread your legs wide so that I can clean you there! Of course, rather than the cloth, I lower my head and, with my tongue, happily lick you completely clean. The taste of you and I together is so wonderful that my cock starts to get firm again! Oh Lord! The affect you have on me is incredible, my darling!

Not to be outdone – as my oral ministrations brings you to another series of orgasms - you take my growing cock in your soft hands and draw it down to your mouth. As I continue to run my tongue from your clit to your puckered rear and then plunge it into your pussy, you take my cock deep into your mouth until it touches the back of your throat. You suck me harder and harder and run your tongue the length of my 9" cock until you reach the tip. There you lap at the sensitive cockhead until I moan into your pussy that I am going to cum AGAIN!! You stroke the length of my cock with both your hands while sucking and licking around the glands! The sensations are going to drive me over the edge and I lash and suck hard on your clit as you suck me harder and pull my into your mouth; my cock swells and I drive myself deep into your mouth as I cum until you have sucked me dry. Meanwhile, I have continued to nip on your clit and finger fuck you as deep as I can until your pussy grips my fingers and tongue in a massive orgasm that sends sprays of your sweet cum down my hands and into my mouth!

I turn around and fall upon you in a deep tongue-exchanging kiss while we exchange each other's tastes and juices! As we do, we are both virtually in tears with the extremity of the feelings!

I enfold you in my arms, my darling, and we fall into a dreamless sleep together.

I cannot wait until we see each other again. Looking forward to that day when you can finally be mine and we no longer have to hide our love and feelings for one another.

Yours Longingly

Peter.

My Letter To You... (GonG)

As I sit here, well lie here I think of you, and what I would like to do to you and with you. I can't resist slipping my hand down to my pussy, caressing it softly underneath my shorts. Slowly I begin to seek out my clitoris, gently inserting my finger inside my slightly wet pussy thinking of how I would like to kiss you. How soft I know your lips will be, and how nervous we will both be. Of course it would start as a soft quick kiss on the lips, maybe even just a peck. But I know I will not want to pull away, I will want to stay there, and I will want to slip my tongue inside your mouth. The more I think of this the wetter I become and the more lubricated my finger becomes; slowly I withdraw it a little and search for the nub of my clitoris. As I find it I can feel myself 'squirming' slightly as I enjoy the feelings this is creating in me, my mind drifts back to us kissing.

I don't know what it is you have unleashed in me (not that it's a bad thing!) but I can't stop myself from touching your body, almost instinctively I reach out and touch your skin for the first time. Your skin is so soft I can't help myself, as slowly I caress your sides, your back; pulling you closer as I do so. I want to touch you more intimately but I am shy and scared to in case it isn't what you want. Sensing my fear I would hope you would touch me back, softly stroking my back the way you know I love. Sighing slightly against your lips I slowly move my hands to your breasts, shaking slightly as I go. Hoping I was gentle enough and this was making you happy, you know I always worry about hurting you and you feeling uncomfortable. Closing my eyes I can see you before me as I slowly begin to seek out my clitoris, tensing and relaxing myself as I do.

Slowly I continue to caress your breasts and kiss you softly, alternating between soft kisses upon the lips and deep passionate kissing while slipping my tongue inside. Wanting and needing more I can no longer hold back, I need and want to know what it feels like; touching you somewhere I had only recently myself been able to touch on my own body. Making sure you want to go down this road, we head to the bed and lay side by side softly stroking and caressing each other’s bodies. As I kiss you deeply, I begin to slowly slide my hand down towards your pussy swallowing hard as I am inches away. Praying and hoping you don't pull away now and searching for a sign I tenderly move closer, as I let my fingers touch you I almost hold my breath swallowing hard again against your lips. I would hope a soft moan would escape from your lips against mine letting me know it was ok to continue.

As I lay here my eyes shut, I am thinking of you while I alternate between rubbing my clitoris and coating them with my juices from my wet pussy. Enjoying the feeling of my hand and fingers have upon me, wishing slightly it was your own fingers and hands doing this to me; creating these feelings in me. But that can be for another time; right now all I want is to please you; to touch you; to taste you. Letting my mind drift back to us, I can see the images of us kissing deeply and passionately as I slowly use my fingers to search out your pussy. Having already touched the outer lips I slowly slide one of my fingers inside, amazed at how it makes me feel and hoping it makes you feel the same way. Sliding my finger out of you I begin to seek out the nub of your clitoris, again slowly I stop just short and hold my breath again hoping and praying you don't push me away. Feeling how you don't object and pull away I slowly and softly begin to rub lightly, hoping you are enjoying it taken aback by the fact that I am. Pulling back I want to speak I want to say something, anything but find the words get stuck in my throat.

I feel like it's a now or never moment, I know I will never do this again if it isn't with you. You make me feel safe and loved, if we were an item I wouldn't be scared or shy or worried or afraid I would just feel loved and wanted and hopefully needed.

"Do you want me to stop?" I finally found my voice, finally found the words I wanted to say. Looking into your eyes I see no objection which leads me to my next question, looking you square in the eye I pray this will not upset things between us.

"May I use my tongue on you?" Touching you with my fingers to indicate I want to give you oral, I see a fear in your eyes and know it's not me you see. Pulling my hand away I hold you in my arms, hoping and praying our friendship will last. Knowing it would kill me inside if I lost your friendship over this, although I would know I wanted this I can also see that you don't. You know I would never push, rush or force the issue upon you. Whatever happens or doesn't happen is something two best friends could deal with and not let it affect their friendship, holding you tightly in my arms I kiss your forehead and slowly close my eyes. Feeling how my heartbeat and breath begin to return to normal, falling into a light slumber knowing that I would always love you no matter what.

Our First Time...

Harry not only works as a Director at the football but he also owns his own business and does business with many of our town’s big (and not so big!) businesses. Among which is the company my parents work for. He would often go round to their place of work and had become friends with both of them. And due to the football, he also became sort of a friend to me.

Harry stands at 6ft 2ins and has an athletic toned build. With boyish good looks, dark brown (with grey tints) hair and deep brown eyes that twinkle when he smiles, (a smile that, it has to be said could melt a mountain) he certainly cuts a very handsome and dashing figure. Harry is a perfect gentleman and is liked by all who know him or have dealings with him. He would do what ever he could to help you out and would always find time to chat with most people.

He is the kind of guy any woman, (and I mean ANY) woman could fall in love with! And a guy that I would be proud to call a boyfriend and be with!! However, so could his wife!!! Which is why when I start to have fantasies and feelings for him, I know that I must never act upon them. But this is a hell of a lot easier said than done! Especially when he’s such a nice guy and so kind and sweet to me!! It was the little things that made the difference to me!!!

He would always speak to me and would always stop at the end of a match to chat and would always make sure I got home safely. He was like a best friend to me! So how was I to know things were not as they seemed? How was I meant to know that there was more to his feelings than I thought? Harry was always the good guy. A man that would NEVER cheat on his wife and was as honest as the day is long!

It was Monday morning and my folks were just about to go to work, when Dad spoke; “Oh I forgot to tell you, Harry will be coming round for dinner tonight. Make sure the table set by half four Gabby.” and with that they were out and off to work. “Damn it.” I thought “I remember the last time he came round! I hope it isn’t like that again!!” I went upstairs and got dressed.

I began thinking about the last time Harry had been round. It was just a few weeks after dad had come out of Hospital after his by-pass. Harry had come round visiting one lunchtime and as my Dad was out at the Doctor’s, I was left in the house alone with Harry, waiting for my folks to get back.

Although there was never anything said between us, I could sense there was something, as I could feel his eyes watching me and every move I made. As soon as my folks came in, he spent the next hour (he’d already been with me for thirty minutes! Good job he’s his own boss!) Talking to my folks and me while standing up against the wall in front of me.

I couldn’t help but look at him and I remember taking a good long hard look at ALL of his body! And I remember he caught me doing this!! I just couldn’t take my eyes off him!! And he knew it!!! So I spent the rest of the hour, looking at him and fantasising about the things I’d like to do to and with him! I can also remember after he’d gone I went upstairs and had written down all those thoughts and feelings, but always kept them hidden away!

As I finished breakfast and did some house work I decided to have a shower and then get ready for tonight. As I was about to step into the shower I hear the door go and I race downstairs to answer it. As I do, I’m only dressed in a towel and it had become loose from the ‘sprint’ downstairs. There on my doorstep is a smiling Harry getting a good eyeful of my near naked body in front of him.

As we exchange greetings and I invite him in for coffee I express my shock at seeing him so early. He told me that he was just passing and wanted to change things so that he was taking us out to dinner. As I went to make him coffee I told him I didn’t see it as a problem. Harry comes and stands close by my side, not too close but close enough!

Harry is, as always dressed immaculately smart and clean in his dark grey suit and purple shirt! (I loved a man that wasn’t afraid of bold colours!) He is, as always clean shaven and smelling sweet! Not a hair out of place and I must admit looking damn fine!

As I reach to get the coffee cups, the loose fitting towel falls to the ground and in a blind panic I almost drop a cup. I spin around to try and recover not only the cup but also my dignity! As I managed to just about catch the cup I come face-to-face with what I can tell is a very turned on Harry, who hasn’t been able to take his eyes off my body.

Both I and Harry go to pick the towel up at the same time and as I scramble to get the towel around my now naked body our hands touch and our eyes meet. It’s like lighting bolts shooting through my body. As I blush, Harry tells me not to be embarrassed about it all and as we stand upright he helps me put the towel back around myself. He also lets his hands linger on my hips. I turn around and finish making the coffee, but Harry leaves his hands on my hips while standing behind me.

There’s one of my favourite songs playing on the radio, Black Velvet by Alannah Myles and almost without thinking I start to sway with the music. Harry let’s out a sigh and I suddenly remember where I am and clear my throat and tell him his coffee’s ready. As he moves back a little and I turn around I accidentally let my trailing arm (which was by my side) run over his groin area.

I can tell instantly that he’s hard, huge and very turned on! And seemingly not in the least bit embarrassed by my mistaken action. I apologise as I put the coffee on the kitchen table and as he sits down I ask him to excuse me as I feel I need to get dressed.

He pulled me a little closer to him and with a smile and twinkle in his big brown eyes tells me not to bother. And as he positions me so that I’m standing between his legs, he adds that he likes me just the way I am! As he’s smiling up at me, Harry’s running his big soft hands up and down my thighs and then my sides. The feelings I’m having through this alone as sensational.

Harry then takes the bold step of removing the towel I’m wearing. When he sees I’m not stopping him or objecting he pulls me onto his lap and begins kissing, touching and stroking my entire body. He gently and tenderly takes first one then the other breast into his hungry waiting mouth. The feelings are amazing and although I am enjoying them I pull away from him.

I was unsure as to what was happing, where it was going to go and more importantly, what I was thinking! Harry was a friend! A friend of the family!! And married!!! A decent, good man, that wouldn’t cheat on his wife! So what was I doing sat on his lap, naked and letting him kiss, touch and stroke me? This would be a bad idea and is wrong I said to myself. But it – HE – felt so good!

Harry could tell I was having second thoughts and sort of moved me off his lap, finished his coffee and got up and after putting the cup in the sink, went to leave. This was it. The moment I had thought about many times before. I could do something about the burning desire in not only my heart but also my loins or I could let him walk away and risk the fact that I may never again get the chance to ‘know’ what it feels like to be ‘loved’ by him! Hard choice!

As Harry passed me, he planted a small light peck on my cheek and went to walk out the door. It was then that I decided what I wanted. “Harry, please don’t go?” I just about heard myself say. I was surprised at how softly I said it. And was already scared of the reaction I’d get. I need not have worried though as his smile told me everything I needed to know. Harry gently pushed me up against the wall in front of the stairs and began telling me how sexy I looked and how much he wanted me and liked me.

As soon as Harry had kissed me I relaxed. It was so gentle and passionate, not too dry and not too wet, it was just perfect! We were both getting turned on and very horny by this point and I knew it wouldn’t take much or long before I came. Harry took the bold step of laying me on the stairs and then going down on me. He stayed there for ages and I knew he was going to make me cum when he also used his fingers to fuck me at the same time as licking my clit.

Not long afterwards I feel myself cuming and as I gasp and moan and hold his head in place I feel the aftermath washing over me like a wave. Harry pulls me up to my feet and takes off his shoes and jacket, while loosening his tie he ask me where the bedroom is. As I turned around and started to walk up the stairs, I look back and smile at him and use my index finger to summons him upstairs. He doesn’t need to be asked twice!

In the bedroom, Harry undresses as I watch. He asks what I’m looking at and why I’m watching him undress. I told him I loved his body and liked looking at him. I went up behind him and gently kissed his back as I let my hands wander all over his sexy body. I sat back on the edge of the bed as Harry turned round and continued watching and looking at his body. We kissed again and lay on the bed. While he and I talked he began to finger me and get me wet again.

Harry still had his boxers on and I was (I admit) dying to see his cock. It had felt so hard and big, I just needed to know. As we continued to kiss and play I made the bold move and began playing with his cock through his boxers. He was certainly big and hard and when I finally did managed to ‘release’ him from the boxers I had to do a double take on his cock! He was huge!! And I mean HUGE!!! It was so big I wasn’t sure I could take it all. Or, for that matter just what he was going to do with his monster cock!!!

As I began to feel the start of a major orgasm, I forgot how big Harry was and took him in my mouth. The idea of this was also to slow things down a little. But he was having none of that and went down on me again. This begun to blow my mind and very soon I was climaxing once again. Soon after Harry had climbed in between my legs and was poised to enter me in the missionary position. He then did a strange thing. He asked me if he could make love to me.

I didn’t need to be asked twice! And with that Harry slowly and softly entered me. And continued going until he was deep inside me. He was still so big though and I had to ask him (almost plead him) to be gentle with me, which he of course did. Although he was strong and passionate, he was also soft, tender, slow and gentle. This turned me on even more!

We made love like this for over an hour and I was starting to wonder where he got all his energy from! But I had already cum twice before and now a third time. What more could he do to or for me? Make me cum one last time! But this time it would be a very special time! Soon after Harry had come, he was back between my legs with his tongue and fingers. I was so horny that the reactions I had when he touched me surprised even myself.

Oh My God was this really what they meant when they said only a few women can truly ‘climax?’ Is this how it’s meant to be? Oh my God, it felt amazing! The feeling of Harry’s soft tender hand and tongue working me up and soon I’m at the point of no return and I’m saying that I want to cum and it feels like I want to pee. And Harry telling to just relax and let it go and let the feeling wash over me.

And when I do ‘climax’ oh boy, do I climax! I can see stars and I feel dizzy and light headed. The room starts to spin and I can feel my whole body float up to the sky! I lay there with my eyes shut and travel to my own little paradise. I’m lost in the moment and the feelings that I’m having when I think I can hear my name being called. “Gabby baby, are you ok? I didn’t hurt you did I?” It was Harry’s voice and he sounded concerned and I figured out why. I was crying.

“Oh Harry, I’m fine it’s just that I have never experienced anything like that before!” I slowly sat up and wiped my eyes. As I looked at him I could see a puzzled look come upon his face. “You mean to say that nobody has ever made you feel that way? Made you ejaculate like that? Never treated you like that? Baby why?”

I was shocked at the question. I mean I had been “had” many times before and had been “sexually active” for a while, but I had never been ‘made love’ to! All I could do was shake my head. Harry smiled and pulled me close to him. He was warm and smelled gorgeous! I cuddled down next to him and we both drifted off into a light sleep.

I awoke to another of my favourite songs playing on the radio, Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls. And as I lay there I watched Harry sleep for a while and I felt an enormous feeling of guilt. How could I have done this with a friend? With such a nice guy? How could I make a faithful and happily married man stray? I was such a bad person! I got up and went to get dress, but I felt a hand on my arm pulling me back.

I couldn’t look in his eyes and apologised for leading him astray. He told me to stop being so daft and then told me of how his marriage was a mess and had been over for a long time now. We talked about how things had gotten on top of him and how he needed the love of a good woman to give him strength. I knew that I was going to fall in love with this man and told him of my fears and in turn this silently told him how I felt and what I wanted.

After a long ‘chat’ Harry kissed me and went to lighten the mood. He said that since I was on my way to have a shower he thought we should go and do that. We get into the shower and adjust the temperature and stand close together under the warm water. It feels so good and even better when Harry starts to wash me with the soap. Using his hands all over my body. After a little while he takes some shampoo and washes my hair. I can feel myself getting lost in these feelings again.

But as I’m relaxing and almost falling asleep with these feelings Harry takes his finger and moves it to my pussy. This sends a jolt though my body. I can feel him start to finger my pussy and kiss my neck. He gently leans me forward and enters me from behind. Holding on to my hips he starts to pump away at my eager pussy. He moves a hand to my clit and begins to rub it. I can feel my knees start to buckle and I reach out to steady myself as I cum again.

I turn around and kiss Harry passionately on the lips, we then get out of the shower and go back to my room to dry off. We kiss and hold each other while we talk mainly about what had just happened but also life in general. It felt so good to be in his arms! I felt safe, so relaxed and comfortable. It was already late in the afternoon and by the time we had got dried and dressed, it was nearly half six, the time my folks came home from their work!

We had just managed to get downstairs as my folks walked in the door. I don’t know who were more surprised, them or me and Harry!!! They made some comment about Harry being there so early, but he just said he was passing by and that he wanted to take us out for dinner. So while my folks dressed, myself and Harry waited downstairs. When they had got upstairs, he immediately came up behind me and kissed me so passionately. And almost begged me to see him again!

Well, what could I do? It was and is the best night of my life and I’m so glad now that I made that pass at him and didn’t let him walk out the house! He’s the most amazing lover I have ever or will ever have!

The Last Dance.

Dust motes danced in the air like tiny fairies, captured in the pale yellow sunlight streaming in through the tall windows. Eleanor sat relaxed in her high backed chair, with her book open on her knee. Her eyes stared unseeing out into the garden as the birds pecked at the bread crumbs on the lawn.
Her silver hair curled in wispy tendrils around her lined face. The faint vestiges of beauty were still evident in the slant of her cheek bones and the arch of her brow, but her hazel eyes were faded and her skin papery with age.
The house was blissfully silent. Jessie had gone out for a couple of hours to visit her new friend. As much as she loved the girl, Eleanor was rather relieved to have some peace and quiet; it allowed her time to sift through her memories and enjoy the familiar creaks of the old house.
Jessie had the annoying habit of playing her music loud whenever she was around. Either that or she was singing tunelessly. Still, reflected Eleanor, she brought much needed life into the old house. Her own children were long gone and she had no one left any more.

Marie had died of cancer twenty seven years ago and Eleanor still missed her very much. She had found it hard to come to terms with the loss of her youngest daughter. It did not seem right to out-live one's children and she had asked God many times why Marie had been taken from her. He had never answered of course and Eleanor doubted He ever would.
Sarah, Marie's sister, moved to Australia three years after Marie died, and Eleanor had only heard from her a few times since then. They had never been close and when Marie passed away, the ties holding them together finally snapped. Eleanor just couldn't reach Sarah; their grief kept them apart, each locked in their own private hell.
Aaron had passed away a decade before Marie. She still missed her beloved husband every second of every day. He had been the love of her life and when he was killed in a senseless accident, she had honestly believed that she couldn't go on any longer. But Marie had made her see that life was for living and she had eventually found the strength to smile again.

It had been a whole lot harder when Marie died. But Eleanor carried on regardless. If it was God's will that she survived all of them, then so be it. She had slowly learned to find pleasure in the smallest things and to take each day as it came.
The day Jessie rescued the tiny kitten had been one of those days. Oliver had very nearly frozen to death after being abandoned by a callous neighbour. Jessie had heard the pitiful meowing from inside a bin bag, as she walked back from the shop one evening.
Upon investigation, she had found a small, pathetic bundle of misery, shoved into a bag and cruelly left to die. Jessie had brought the shivering kitten into the house and given it some warm milk and tuna fish. Neither of them had thought the tiny creature would survive the night, but miraculously the courageous kitten had fought his way back from the brink of death.
As the days passed, he grew stronger and his cheeky personality soon emerged. Despite his naughty nature, Eleanor grew to love the cat dearly. He had certainly made up for his poor start in life - he had not stopped eating since! Jessie constantly scolded Eleanor for passing him titbits off her plate, but she took no notice. She had very little appetite these days and it didn't hurt to pass some food to Oliver now and again.

Her reward for all the subterfuge was a purring bundle of fur on her bed every night; that and absolutely no mice anywhere in the house. Eleanor smiled as she recalled Jessie's disgust the first time Oliver had bought a 'present' back for them. A small rodent deposited on the back step was not Jessie's idea of a gift. She had screamed blue murder at the sight of the decapitated corpse. Oliver had merely sat there looking extremely pleased with his feline self.
Eleanor coughed slightly and pulled her shawl tightly around her shoulders; the air was growing chilly now the sun had dropped down behind the tall fir trees. A heavy blanket across her knees kept her legs warm and she closed her eyes, feeling the drowsiness of age slipping over her like a comfortable shroud. The faint noises from the distant street faded away and she drifted into a dreamy state, her hands loosening on the worn paperback novel she held on her lap.
Gradually her head nodded forward and the book slowly slid un-noticed onto the worn rug. The ancient grandfather clock in the hall struck five, but Eleanor was unaware. Darkness crept gradually over the room as the old lady slept on, her breathing raspy and shallow.

Oliver wandered in, his paws silent on the Persian rug as he looked for a warm place to sleep. He stared unblinkingly at the old lady for a moment and debated whether to jump up and snuggle on the blanket. But his stomach reminded him it was nearly supper time and he decided to head for the kitchen in search of food instead. He knew Jessie had left some chicken breasts out to defrost because he could smell them with his sensitive nose. The thought of chicken was far too tempting to resist and with an idle yawn he trotted away, his tail twitching.
The shadows lengthened and the clock ticked on. Reflections from distant car head-lights lit up the room in with occasional bursts of illumination. A streak of light caught the pictures lined up on the mantle and a smiling girl stared out into the room, her dark hair caught in a moment of time. In the photograph next to the girl, a young man stood laughing, his arms wrapped firmly around a youthful Eleanor.
Eleanor smiled dreamily in her sleep. She could faintly hear the notes of The Blue Danube, her favourite waltz.
How they had loved to dance the evenings away...

The parties had been wonderful; beautiful people shimmering and laughing amidst the elegance of the old house. Dancing all night long until the sun rose over the trees and tiredness set in. They were magical times.
The sounds of the music and the laughter gradually roused her from the cocoon of sleep. She sleepily opened her eyes and blinked a little. Candles burned on the mantle and the room was bathed in a golden glow. The scent of tangy floral notes filled the air and she struggled to deal with the sensation that something wasn't quite right.
The old gramophone in the corner played the familiar notes of the waltz and Eleanor found herself floating, listening with remembered pleasure. It had been a long time since she had heard the music. She was more used to the grating sounds of dance music and hip hop blasting out of the kitchen these days.
The sound of her name being called softly startled her once again. Her eyes opened in surprise when she realised a man was standing in front of her. She wondered if she was still dreaming and quickly blinked a couple of times. But the man was still there when she looked again.

"Shall we dance my dear?" he asked with a smile, his hand held out in invitation.
Eleanor wanted to speak, but her lips stubbornly refused to obey her. She moved her mouth, but nothing came out. Instead she stared up into the dark eyes and handsome face of her companion. He waited patiently for her response, his mouth curled in amusement.
Helplessly Eleanor took his proffered hand and stood shakily. Glancing down at herself she realised in wonderment she was wearing the elegant crimson silk dress she had worn for their famous Valentine's Ball in 1933. Her hand was smooth; the skin milky white and no longer stained with the brown discolouration of age. She reached upwards and touched her face. The wrinkles and lines were gone; her cheeks satin smooth.
With a shocked cry she dashed over to the huge gilt mirror hanging above the fire place. Her own reflection stared back at her, the face of a young and vibrant woman again. Her ebony hair hung in glossy waves over her shoulders. The young man stood behind her, his hands resting on her slim waist. Eleanor spun round to face him.
"How?" she asked in wonderment.
He merely smiled enigmatically and taking her hands, he pulled her into the familiar movements of the waltz. Round and round the room they danced, the music flowing over them hypnotically. Eleanor lost herself in the pleasure of the fluid movements. She laughed out loud as he led them around the room in time with the music.
It had been so long; too long...

How they had loved to dance. Aaron had enjoyed it as much as she. She smiled up at him, her head still struggling to comprehend what her heart was telling her.
"Aaron, I...don't understand," she said as they slowed down, the music ending.
"You don't need to understand," he said quietly. "I am here and that is enough."
Eleanor stared at him in bemusement. It had been so many years since her eyes had gazed upon his beloved features. It just made no sense at all. How was it he was here with her now and they were young again? She had to be dreaming; it just wasn't possible.
But she didn't care. It felt real enough right now. The feel of Aaron's hard body against hers was immensely pleasurable. She revelled in the unfamiliar strength flooding through her veins; old age had long been her constant companion.
Aaron halted beneath the mantle. For a second Eleanor gazed up at him, her heart thumping wildly. Unfamiliar sensations of desire swept through her body. Her senses were alive and humming in anticipation of something, although she knew not what.
They stared intently into one another's eyes. The tension crackled like electricity, the candles beneath the mirror spluttering hot wax. Eleanor watched hypnotised, as the flames flickered and cast mysterious shadows over Aarons face. His eyes darkened and his lips parted slightly.
"I love you," he whispered.

"Oh Aaron," she replied. A single solitary tear slid down her velvety cheek. The intensity of her emotions frightened her. She knew this couldn't be happening, but it felt so real. The joy of being with her beloved Aaron again was acute.
Lifting a hand, she reached and cupped his face, feeling the faint stubble on his chin. Surely these details would not be in a dream, she told herself. Still she tried to fight the growing conviction that something mysterious was happening; something beyond the realms of her understanding.
A slow realisation began to dawn. Today was the anniversary of his death - Valentines Day. She had almost forgotten the date; at her age the days just seemed to merge into one long stretch of endless time.
She really should have known what day it was. Jessie had seemed unusually happy this morning and Eleanor had fleetingly wondered why. The girl had bounced around the house with a spring in her step and even the smallest things had not been too much trouble.
Eleanor knew Jessie had a young man she liked. She had talked about him frequently enough over the last few weeks. He was called Samuel she seemed to think. Or was it Michael? Her memory wasn't what it used to be.
Not that she could ever forget the night Aaron was killed. Her blood ran cold and she shivered at the painful memory. He seemed to sense the chill in her and he pulled her into the circle of his arms.
"Don't think about that now," he told her, his chin resting on the top of her head.

That was easier said than done however. She tried to dispel the memory of the Police Officers standing on the porch, their faces grave and sad. They tried to be gentle but there was never an easy way to tell somebody that their loved one had been killed by a drunk driver. It was a senseless death; Aaron had been in the wrong place at the wrong time.
The irony was he should have been at home with her. Instead he had made the short journey to the shop for some milk -- all because she had forgotten to buy some. It had been over in an instant and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver had been a young kid who didn't even have a license to drive. Aaron's life had been snuffed out in the blink of an eye -- all because of a cheap thrill ride by a stupid boy trying to impress his friends.
Eleanor shivered in anguish. The months that followed were bleak, coloured only by a million shades of black. It took a long time for the sun to shine again, but one day she knew that it was finally time to move on.
Aaron took a step back and tilted her chin upwards.
"Look at me, Eleanor," he commanded.

She gazed at him and drank in his familiar features joyfully, the pain abating once more in the pleasure of his presence.
"Don't think about the sad things now. Think only of the here and now. We don't have long like this, so just enjoy the time we have. Soon we will be together forever, but for now let's dance..." He clicked his fingers and the music began to play again.
Aaron took her hand and placed his arm around her waist. With a smile they moved off into the first steps of the waltz, their feet lighter than air, dancing round the familiar room as if they had never stopped.
On and on they danced, the music as endless as the pleasure it invoked. The candles carried on burning brightly, wisps of smoke curling upwards towards the high vaulted ceiling. It was if time had stood still for a few precious hours. Eleanor had never been so happy; it was a magical time and she prayed that it would never end.

* * *

When Jessie returned to the house, she was surprised to find it dark and in shadow. It was unusual. Eleanor would normally turn the lights on as the daylight faded. She was old, but she was more than capable of moving round the house and doing simple tasks like that.
Jessie unlocked the back door, humming to herself. On her finger a large diamond ring sparkled brightly. She was so excited about what had happened this afternoon -- Sam had asked her to marry him! She couldn't wait to tell Eleanor. She could hardly wait to announce it to the whole damn world!
Oliver brushed past her legs purring loudly and Jessie reached down to scratch his ears. Then she remembered the chicken she had left out and cursed loudly.
"You better not have eaten that chicken, cat!" she said in warning as Oliver wound in and out of her legs. He looked at her unblinkingly and almost appeared to grin in a catlike way.
Jessie's heart sank. He had eaten it - she just knew it...damn that cat!
Quickly she went through and switched the lights on in the kitchen. Sure enough - the chicken was gone. An empty plate left on the shelf and a very fat cat was the only evidence a crime had been committed.

Jessie was about to clobber the cat when it occurred to her that the house was unnaturally quiet. There was a very strange feeling in the air and for a moment the fine hairs in the back of her neck stood up.
"Eleanor?" she called loudly. Surely the old woman had not gone to bed. She did tend to nod off on a fairly regular basis, but it was much too early for her to have turned in for the night -- besides, they had not had tea yet.
She walked through the kitchen and into the back hallway. "Eleanor?" she called again, louder this time.
Still Jessie had no reply. She could smell the faint odour of candles burning and she wondered why Eleanor would have lit candles. They were never lit -- they sat on the mantle for decoration rather than light.
Switching lights on as she went, Jessie made her way through the house towards the living room where she had left the old lady sitting in her chair with her book. It was almost dark outside and Jessie was beginning to feel a little spooked. It was odd that Eleanor had not answered her -- even if she had fallen asleep, she should have woken up by now.
The grandfather clock struck six o'clock with a series of loud booming chimes. Jessie walked into the living room and she could just about make out the shape of Eleanor sat in her chair, partially illuminated in the moonlight shining through the tall windows.

"Hey sleepyhead!" said Jessie as she walked over to the lamps by the fireplace. "You haven't been asleep all afternoon have you?" she scolded good-naturedly.
That's strange, thought Jessie as she switched the lamps on. There were wisps of smoke drifting from the wicks on the candles. It was almost as if they had only just been blown out. The gramophone in the corner of the room had the lid up and several of the records had been moved.
"Have you been having a party while I've been out?" Jessie asked as she headed over to Eleanor's chair.
Eleanor sat slumped in her chair, her head tilted to one side and her eyes closed. She looked peacefully asleep, but when Jessie reached out for her hand, she did not move and her chest was still. Jessie's heart stopped a moment and her blood froze in her veins.
This was the moment she had been dreading for years -- the old lady had finally passed away. Jessie knelt at her feet, still holding her hand tightly. She could not have stopped the tears falling even if she had wanted to.
"Oh Eleanor..." she sobbed, "I am going to miss you..." She looked up, her eyes blurred with tears, and suddenly realised that the old lady was smiling joyfully even in death.
Her face was utterly serene and she looked much happier than she had in a long time. Jessie took some comfort from the fact that Eleanor had passed away so peacefully. She could only hope that she had gone to a better place.

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

From far above, Eleanor watch the scene as she stood hand in hand with her beloved Aaron. She wished she could comfort Jessie, but she knew she could not help her now. It was time for her to move on. But one day she would see Jessie again, although hopefully not for a long time. Jessie was young and she had a whole lifetime to live before she came here.

"Come Eleanor," Aaron said gently. "Marie is waiting for us..."
Eleanor's face lit up with a brilliant smile. She was so happy to be reunited with the people she loved most in the world. Holding hands they walked into the light.

A Love Like This?

My darling.

When I think back to how we began or friendship it is simply impossible for me to think that it could be all over, that within moments I could possible lose the love of my life and the best thing to have ever happened to me. And I know that I cannot compare to New York, or how it makes you feel safe, wanted and at home there. But after all we have been through and after all we have shared I feel that I need to say these things to you, I meant everything I said to you that night; when I told you how I felt about you.

I have been in love with you for over ten years, I knew I wanted to be with you the first moment I met you and when we became friends I knew I would never stop loving you or forget you. You are my friend, my companion and my life; and you always will be. When I lost my wife and family; you were there for me, giving me the support and friendship I needed so badly. When you were caught in that conflict out in the Sudan I was totally lost; watching the TV every day for some, any news that you were ok. When your heart broke so did mine and I know the feeling was mutual.

So this is my promise to you;

When you are sad, I will do my best to cheer you up.

When you are mad, I will help you calm down.

When you are lonely, I will stop you being alone.

When you cry, I will lend you my shoulder, chest and arms... I will dry your tears and sooth your fears.

When you are happy, I will be there to share you joy.

When you are relaxed, I will be there to “do nothing with you.”

When you laugh, I will be there to laugh with you; to watch your eyes dance and the sparkle in your eye twinkle. You eyes would always captivate me, they say so much.

When you are broken and cannot stand, I will be with you; holding you up.

When you have success, I will be there to share in it.

When you are strong, I will be strong with you.

When you are weak, I will be you support and your strength.

When you need me there, I will be there; always.

I will never hurt you, I will never make you sad, and I will never make you cry or feel bad.

This my beautiful friend, is my whole hearted promise to you; the love of my life. Thank you for all that you are and all that you have been and will always be to me. I wish I could hold you forever and that life would just end up right, but I know you need to find you. Remember this; my heart, my love and my soul are always and have always been yours.

I love you, forever.

Friends Are Forever

Two friends were walking through the desert. During some point of the journey, they had an argument; and one friend slapped the other one in the face.

The one who was slapped was hurt, but without saying anything, wrote in the sand,

“Today my best friend slapped me in the face …”

They kept on walking, until they found an oasis, where they decided to take a bath.
The one who had been slapped got stuck in the mire and started drowning, but the friend saved him.

After he recovered from the near drowning, he wrote on a stone:

"Today my best friend saved my life"

The friend who had slapped and saved his best friend asked him, "After I hurt you, you wrote in the sand and now, you write on a stone, why?"

The friend replied "when someone hurts us we should write it down in sand, where winds of forgiveness can erase it away.

But, when someone does something good for us, we must engrave it in stone where no wind can ever erase it"
Learn to write you hurt and pain in the sand and carve your benefits in stone.

They say it takes a minute to find a special person, and hour to appreciate them, a day to love them and an entire lifetime to forget them!

Take time to live!

Love like you’ve never been hurt.

Dance like no one is watching.

Sing like no one can hear you.

And live like its heaven on earth!

Do not value the things you have in your life, value WHO you have in your life!!!

"Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle."

Christmas Kisses Under The Mistletoe.

The team had just finished their last case and it had taken its toll on all of them, not least of all Grace. Grace had seemingly gone through hell over the course of the last six months which culminated in this nasty case of gangland killings, something Boyd was aware of but not the others in the team was how Grace’s violent ex was part of the same gang that had been targeted. Over the course of the case Boyd would often ask after Grace, making sure she was still ok not just to continue the case but also in general. The pair had been good friends ever since the Unit had been started up, both had knowledge of each other’s reputations and both had been more than a little eager to work with the other. As Boyd walked out into the crisp cold winter air he pulled the collar of his coat up and wrapped his jacket tighter around him, he hated Christmas time and was not looking forward to heading into the City. Ok, he knew what he wanted to do but it’s just he hated Shopping at the best of times, he wasn’t very good at it if he was honest but when you added Christmas time into the fray as well Boyd realised this could be a disaster.

Back in the Unit Grace sat in her office and tried to relax and get her mind off the case the team had just finished, it had been a rough case for all involved but it was Grace that would suffer the most. Only Boyd knew the real reasons and it had been he that she would seek out when things would get too much for her or if she just needed to talk to someone, and although he could be annoying at times Grace would be glad of Boyd and his friendship. Grace had known of Boyd’s glowing reputation for a while, many of the colleagues she worked with over the years have spoken of Peter Boyd and his work ethic. When he had asked her to go and work for him, she had felt honoured and proud that her own reputation had reached him. What she wasn’t expecting was how her feelings would overwhelm her once they had first met, she wasn’t expecting to feel emotions that she thought had long since died within her the moment he took her hand and introduced himself to her when they first met at her ‘interview.’ Putting her glasses on the files in front of her and closed her eyes for a moment trying to clear her thoughts.

Walking around the shops getting shoved and pushed from pillar to post as he searched for something that said how he felt, Boyd wished he was better at everything and then he wouldn’t need to be here getting madder and stressed out. As some old lady ran over his foot with her shopping trolley and another jabbed him in the side with her umbrella Boyd did his best to think calming thoughts, reminding himself often that this was for Grace and that he couldn’t leave without something for her. Boyd knew he had never been that great at buying things for women, especially those he cared about but now he found himself in the position he was and if he was honest it scared the hell out of him. It wasn’t the only thing that worried him if he was honest with himself, the feelings he had always felt for Grace was something he had tried to deny and fight. But now he felt that he could no longer deny these feelings any longer, especially after it was clear to even him that they needed each other. Smiling to himself as he walked past the jewellery department Boyd couldn’t help but venture in and have a look, maybe he would find what he was looking for inside.

As Grace sat trying to clear her mind of not only the recent case but also the feelings she was having for Boyd her phone rang causing Grace to sigh as she answered the phone, surprised by the voice for a moment on the other end of the line.

“Hi Mum, how are you?” Grace smiled as she heard Frankie’s friendly voice on the line.

“Frankie! It’s so good to hear from you, we are fine but how’s things with you?” Grace did her best to avoid answering how she was feeling, mainly because she herself didn’t know the answer! As the two talked about everything but what both really wanted to say, both could relax and forget about their already overloaded thoughts. Finally Frankie took a deep breath and said what she had been longing to say ever since she had picked the phone and called Grace.
“Grace, I wanted to call for another reason other than it’s Christmas.” Grace knew that moment the concern she had felt when she first picked the phone up was for a reason.

“What is it Frankie?” As the two woman talked the shock became evident on Grace’s face and she would suggest the pair met which thankfully Frankie agree would be a good idea.

As Boyd spotted it sparkling away in the glass cabinet, he knew instantly that it was perfect for Grace. It said everything he wanted to say and everything he felt perfectly, the only trouble was he didn’t know how to put it into words. As Boyd stood purchasing the piece of sparkling jewellery he thought about how long it had been since he had felt such butterflies inside of him, that and how he missed Mel and Frankie. Although it had been two years now the pain and regret he still felt was all too real, and part of the reason he was seeking professional help in the form of anger management. Realising his own sadness rising inside of him Boyd concentrated on the present that the sales assistant was wrapping, smiling and thanking the assistant Boyd paid and left heading for the restaurant to make the booking in readiness for tonight. As he returned to the Unit he met Grace heading the other way, hiding her gift behind his back Boyd spoke.

“Hi Grace, of somewhere nice?”

“Well yes actually, I’m off out to lunch with our good friend Dr. Wharton.” Grace replied as she saw the gift Boyd tried to hide behind his back, hoping inside it was for her. Smiling as the pair walked away from each other Boyd laid the reservations on her desk for when she got back from lunch.

Spotting Frankie the moment she walked in Grace walked a little faster as she approached her friend’s side and spoke.
“Frankie, it’s great to see you! So what are you drinking?” After the drinks had been ordered the pair had sat talking about anything and everything but what both were there for, until Frankie took a deep breath and spoke.

“You know as much as I love our small talk, that isn’t why I asked you here.” Pausing so she could get what she was about to say right in her own mind first, Frankie took a deep breath before she continued.

“A few months after I left here I was still down and hurting about Mel and everything…” Pausing so she could choose her words correctly before continuing.

“I met a guy and we got on well, and well the result was a daughter.” Wanting to say more and what she had come for but sensing Grace’s shock she stopped.

“Oh Frankie, wow. That’s an awful lot for me to take in.” Was all Grace could say as the two friends sat drinking their coffees, taking another deep breath Frankie went on.

“There is more Grace. Although I know it is a little late I wanted to ask if you minded me calling her Amelia Grace?”
Overwhelmed by the thought that someone close wanted to name their child after her brought a tear to Grace’s eye and as she took her hankie from her pocket Frankie spoke again.

“Aww Grace, please don’t cry on me! There is something else I wanted to ask, not just you but Boyd too.” As Grace stopped crying she could feel herself smile at the sound of his name, thinking to herself how daft it was that she; a grown woman should felt so like a love sick teenager made Grace smile slightly more.

“Will you and Boyd be Godparents to her?” Grace’s head shot up and her eyes widened as she let Frankie’s words sink in, trying to find the words she had was searching for caused Grace to open and close her mouth several times before she was able to pull herself together and speak.

“Frankie, I would be so delighted and honoured to be your daughter’s Godmother, I can’t speak for Boyd though I am sure he will feel the same.”

“You mean, you two still haven’t become more than just friends? Aww Grace, he so fancies you!” Frankie was never shy in saying what she felt and this was one of those times when she wouldn’t hold back.

“Frankie!” Grace said as both women looked shocked and sensing that Grace would give nothing away Frankie held her hands up in defeat and spoke.

“Ok Grace ok, just promise me you will stop by tonight and meet your new baby Goddaughter?” Nodding the two women finished their coffees and headed back to the Unit. As soon as they walked in Boyd knew his plans that evening may not work out as he planned and as Frankie came in and wanted to talk to him all Boyd could do was think of Grace and how he desperately wanted this evenings plans to work out.

“…. So, Grace has already agreed to be Godmother. I was wondering if you would be her Godfather.” Frankie’s words brought Boyd out of his daydream quickly and for a moment he just sat there silently staring at Frankie while opening and closing his mouth, trying to find the correct words for her.

“You’re a mother?” Was all he could say, still sat in shock.

“Christ Boyd, didn’t you listen? I just told you.” Rolling her eyes in much the same way Mel would have done, Frankie sighed and spoke again.

“I said I had a daughter called Amelia Grace and I wanted you and Grace to be her Godparents.” Shaking her head as she smiled over Boyd’s inability to concentrate, Frankie asked him what he thought. Beaming with pride Boyd got up out of his seat and walked over to Frankie who had also rose from her chair.

Taking her in his arms and congratulating her Boyd spoke.
“Frankie, I am so flattered you asked me and of course I would be delighted to be Godfather to little Amelia Grace.” Trying not to let his tears fall Boyd pulled away as Frankie spoke once more.

“It would be great if you could meet your Goddaughter tonight after work?” The smile that had been present upon Boyd’s face had quickly disappeared as he realised what Frankie was asking him, not wanting to let her or his new Goddaughter down Boyd felt torn as he too didn’t want this chance; maybe his one last chance with Grace to slip away. Taking a deep breath Boyd spoke.

“I would love to be there, but I had planned on taking someone out to dinner tonight.” Not sure if Grace would except or not also kept Boyd from being more positive in his plan.

“Oh it’s alright Boyd, why don’t you come round tomorrow night after work?” Frankie was understandable upset but understood that after all he had gone through in his life he too had just as much right to happiness as anyone else. Nodding an agreement Frankie left and went off to talk to Spence who was just a shocked and pleased to see his friend.

Grace had been sat in her office for a while now and although she knew it was doing her no good and she wasn’t getting any work done she just couldn’t take her eyes from the reservation that lay in front of her, picking it up and running her fingers over it she could sense her heartbeat increasing as she studied it in more detail. She knew the scruffy handwriting on it anywhere, so the last thing she needed to do was ask who had sent it. Maybe after all these years she would finally be able to tell him what she had been keeping locked deep inside all the years they had been colleagues and friends, maybe that gift he had tried to hide really was for her. Although she felt happy for a moment Grace now felt sad that she would have to cancel on Boyd, she had already made arrangements to see Frankie and her Goddaughter. Knowing it would hurt him to cancel Grace waited until the end of the day and both had five minutes alone. Taking a deep breath as she walked out of her office and headed towards Boyd’s office, saying goodbye to both Stella and Spence as they left for home. Walking straight in without knocking alerted Boyd to the fact that she wanted to talk and stopped what he was doing and headed to the sofa Grace had sat down on.

“I hope you don’t mind me booking up before I asked you, but I thought we could go grab dinner after work?” Boyd’s palms were sweaty and as he tried to slow his breathing and heartbeat down he prayed she couldn’t sense the nerves he had deep within him. Taking a deep breath and knowing he would be disappointed Grace spoke, not daring to look up at him.

“Peter I’m sorry, but I have already promised Frankie I would go round and see her tonight. I am sure you will understand?” Praying and hoping that he would, feeling the sadness rise deep within him Boyd tried with all he had to find the right words for her. Inside he wanted to say that yes he did mind and that he wanted to go out with her instead, but Boyd knew he couldn’t do that and instead he finally managed to say that it was ok and it didn’t matter. As Grace got up to leave she felt his heart break along with her own sadness and pain, as she turned to leave Boyd called after her.

“I wanted to give this to you tonight.” As she turned around Boyd handed Grace the gift wrapped present she had seen him hide earlier, causing her heart to break further.

“It’s just a little something to say how much you mean to me and that I appreciate all that you do for me, well all of us really.” Knowing he wasn’t making it any better or easier Boyd handed the gift over and walked outside to the main office as he tired to find something to make him look busy.

Opening the gift Grace’s eyes fell upon the most beautiful diamond necklace she had ever seen, taking it from the box Grace was transfixed as to how it sparkled and caught the light. Thinking about how she felt and the things he had just said to her Grace felt terrible for turning him down and was in two minds as to if she should call Frankie or not, sensing that if she did Frankie would only tease her about it. Walking out into the main office she saw how Boyd tried his best to keep busy and not turn round to face her, taking a deep breath she spoke.

“Peter, this necklace is so beautiful. You really shouldn’t have, but I am most grateful. Maybe I could wear it when we go for dinner tomorrow?” Hoping this would ease the atmosphere between the pair somewhat. Shaking his head Boyd spoke.

“I told Frankie I was going out tonight so, I will be seeing my; our Goddaughter tomorrow night.” Smiling at what she could tell was Frankie’s way of match making, Grace walked over to Boyd’s side and noticed the piece of mistletoe hanging about Spencer’s chair. Smiling to herself at how the charming DI Spencer Jordan had placed it there while getting into the festive sprit earlier on in the day. Smiling as Boyd turned round he went to ask what was wrong and then followed Grace’s eyes upwards.

Smiling the self same smile Grace was Boyd went to speak and then stopped, taking a deep breath he needed to say it as it was a now or never moment for him.
“Grace?” He started.

“Yes Peter?” Grace felt she knew where this was going and was unsure as to how she would handle it, after all it had been a long time for both she knew that but after they had both kept their feelings secret Grace was unsure if now would be the right time.

“Grace, you know that it is customary to kiss when you are under mistletoe?” Was all that Boyd could think to say, ok he knew he wanted to say more but he just couldn’t find the words he needed to say what he felt. Smiling at his shyness and boldness Grace looked up into his deep brown eyes and saw the little lost puppy dog routine his eyes seemed to do so well and instantly felt her desires and emotions rise within her.

“We could just go to Frankie’s together? After all I am sure that is what she really wanted.” Grace tried to fight the urge she had deep down to take Boyd and kiss him passionately, after all he is the king of the mixed signals! Grace thought to herself as she tried to concentrate on anything but what she was feeling deep inside. Smiling Boyd took Grace in his arms and pulled her closer into his chest and spoke.

“I agree Grace., but do I not get a Christmas kiss under the mistletoe first before we go?” Smiling and looking into her deep passionate blue eyes Boyd feel like a child again and put on his best ‘puppy dog eyes’ routine, hoping and praying they would work this time. Smiling as she looked deep into his eyes and tried not to fall any deeper Grace nodded slightly and moved forward, as Boyd did the same the pair were inches away from each others lips when both stopped as if to tease each other Grace turned around and asked Boyd to fasten her necklace. Sensing how he smiled and almost sighed through disappointment Grace held her hair up and moved her head slightly so her neck was visible, and an easy target for Boyd’s tender soft lips to gently attack once he had fastened the necklace. As he brought his lips away from Grace’s neck he felt how she shivered and shuddered with pleasure at his touch, gently caressing her neck he moved his lips to her ear and spoke in a soft whisper.

“I can’t tell you how long I have wanted to do that to you Gracie, you are so beautiful.” Kissing her neck again Grace was almost overwhelmed by the pleasure and desire it had created within her, it had taken her by surprise just like her the first time she had felt the passion which he evoked within the very first time they had met.

“I feel the same Peter.” Was all she could manage as he again kissed her neck gently and then turned her so she was facing him, unable to look into his eyes at first until he gently took her face and lifted it to meet his own. Gently stroking the side of her cheek with his free hand Boyd smiled as he went to say the words he had been longing to say but trying to keep secret since they had first met.

“Grace I have always had feelings for you, you must know that?” As she blushed he took it that she didn’t, and as he sighed and pulled her close he spoke.

“Oh Gracie, I have always loved you. Since the day we met I knew I would never be happy until you were with me.” Kissing her forehead Grace felt loved, wanted and safe like never before. And like never before she felt ready to let someone into her heart again as she pulled away slightly she spoke.

“I feel the same way Peter, I have done since we first met. I never thought you would ever feel the same way about me!” Smiling and blushing at how daft it sounded Grace went to pull away but Boyd pulled her back, for a moment she looked into his eyes questioningly until she saw his cheeky smile.

“Shut up and kiss me Peter.” Was all it took before Boyd took the hint and did as he was instructed to do. Pulling Grace gently into his arms, Boyd’s lips softly touched her own lips as the pair kissed a true lovers kiss under the mistletoe.

As their kissing became more and more passionate, Grace stroked Boyd’s back through his shirt causing his desire to react and show her he was more than a little happy to be there, kissing her back with all the passion he could muster while trying to keep his desires in check Boyd ran his soft hands down Grace’s side as felt how she again shivered and shuddered at his touch. Knowing they should both stop and realising they both had somewhere else to be didn’t seem to be enough for either to want to stop, after all they were both happy and enjoying these emotions and feelings being created by each other deep within their souls. As first Grace, then Boyd’s and finally the office phones rang both knew they must stop. And as both finally pulled away both were more than a little relieved to find the other having just as hard time of catching the breath as the other. In almost silent shock the pair got their stuff and left the office as they reached both their cars Boyd pulled Grace into his arms once more and spoke.
“God Gracie, I love you!” As he held her there in his arms Grace spoke.

“And I love you Peter.” In the silence both didn’t want this moment to end but as their phones rang again both knew it must, getting into his car the pair smiled and kissed once more before heading off in the direction of Frankie’s flat knowing that the kiss they had shared under the mistletoe would last a long time maybe even forever!

In Your Arms I Know I’m Safe. (Grace's Story)

As she got out of her work clothes she couldn’t help but think of what lay ahead for her, well for both of them really. Ever since she had joined the team, Grace had felt the sparks that seemed to almost engulf her when he was nearby. There was no denying she found him physically attractive but it was based on more than just that. But if she was honest with herself she had more than one reason to believe it would never, could never work between the pair. Not least of all the fact that they were colleagues first and friends second, he would never risk his career for a ‘what if?’ Yet if she was honest neither would she, but probably for different reasons than his. Although Grace was always seen to be a strong woman and a very successful one at that she still had the same fears and concerns that most if not all other woman have. It was one of the reasons she had not said anything for such a long time, she was never one hundred per cent sure if he felt anything for her, or if what she felt was enough to risk both their careers on. And her number one main concern was that she felt ugly and that there was no way on earth he could ever love her.

Now as she climbed into the shower knowing that in a few hours he would, hopefully meet her for that drink he had been promising her and knowing that he had indeed felt something for her for all the years they had been working together, she had to admit that she was feeling a little less like the adult she was and more like this love sick teenager that she was currently impersonating! As Grace stood there letting the water rain down upon her body she thought of the first time they had met and how he had made her feel. After some problems in his life the maverick Detective Superintendent Peter Boyd was moved to the newly set up Cold Case Unit, and although most saw this as somewhat of a sideways and dead end move, Peter Boyd was given most of the resources that he had asked for. Including a highly respected team of colleagues, which he hand picked each for their own personalities as well as their reputations. One of the first appointments he had made was Dr. Frankie Wharton, a highly respected and gifted forensics scientist and this was followed up by the appointment of two fellow Police Officers; Mel Silver and Spencer Jordan.

His last appointment was Grace herself and she would often wonder why, although she was well aware of her own abilities as well as his reputation for demanding and getting the best from all who worked under him, Grace had often thought there were other profilers out there that he could easily have asked for. After a few years of working together she had asked him why he had picked her and he just simply answered,

“Because I wanted the best and I have that in you.” If she was honest with herself, it was then that Grace first felt the flutters in her heart that Boyd seemed to have no effort in producing deep within her soul. And is she was honest with herself she wouldn’t want it any other way. The first case she had found herself working on with the team was an old case of Boyd’s and one that seemingly haunted him, she picked up very quickly that he hated being wrong almost as much as he hated admitting his feelings, hopes and fears. Boyd always came across as a tough and strong man, one that you could not only trust but also feel safe with. Grace knew she was right the first time he spoke to her of Joe, his son whom had run away and who’s lose haunted him just as much as his fears.

As Grace emerged from the show and wrapped herself in the huge fluffy towel sitting on the towel rack she thought of how they had first ‘clicked’ when they started working together. Grace had been around long enough to know when a man was flirting with her alone and when he was just a flirt by nature, having said that she had no idea about Boyd who seemingly loved to flirt with all women he came in contact with but who also acted a little different around Grace. As she sat and prepared to get ready for the night out she had been hoping and dreaming of Grace wondered if what she was feeling let alone thinking of doing was a wise move for ‘both’ their careers, it wasn’t like either of them were on the right side of thirty she knew that, but it was still a major risk for the pair of them to take. She was always aware that Boyd may not actually turn up, and this was the one thing that scared her more than the nerves she had going on deep within her. Boyd was notorious for ‘forgetting’ appointments and anything he was unsure of, he was also notorious for being unaware of the ‘signs’ a woman gives off. To say he couldn’t read woman was an understatement, and she knew it.

As Grace dressed and got ready to take the hour drive to where they had arranged to meet she felt a wide range of emotions that she had thought long since died inside her. Fear at him not being there, scared they would be doing the wrong thing, nervous and love sick like she was a young woman again. It had been a long time since she had not only felt like this but also since she had trusted a man enough again to let them into her heart, the last man to have done this was her ex husband whom she had cared for until he passed away for liver cancer in the mid nineties. And the only other man in her life was her ex married colleague, Harry. As she thought of her ex husband and Harry, Grace felt the tears in her eyes that had been threatening to fall ever since this morning when Boyd had asked Grace out for a drink. As she checked herself in the mirror one last time Grace put her best smile on and left her house, as the taxi took her from one side of the city all the way through the bustling streets of London and to the other side of the city all she could think about was if he would really be there!

As she assumed Grace was there first and as she sat at the bar, close to the door but facing away from it she ordered herself a large glass of deep red wine and waited for the call saying he couldn’t make it and that something had come up. They had arranged to meet at half eight but Grace knew that she would be there, alone until at least nine and when half eight came and went she couldn’t help raise a little smile at how well she knew her good friend. And again there was the doubt back in her mind, was she doing the right thing. Could any relationship between us really ever work? Was all that went through her mind as she played with the near empty wine glass in her hands, trying to take her mind off the fear in her mind she ordered herself another drink. Smiling at the barman a genuine smile as he placed the filled glass in front of her and walked off she couldn’t help wish she was anywhere else but her right now, it wasn’t that she didn’t want to be here it was just so that she could cry alone and hide away from the world while her heart broke. And then she heard a slight cough coming from next to her, turning slightly to her right she saw him approaching her and let the smile she felt deep inside her soul show.

“Peter, I didn’t think you would make it!” She said as he greeted her with a peck on the cheek and sat close next to her; while he ordered himself a large glass of deep red wine she inhaled deeply the scent of his aftershave and noted how it was not his usual scent, this made her smile. As they made small talk over their drinks Grace studied him and noted with a smile how he did much the same to her.

“You look stunning tonight Gracie.” Boyd slightly whispered as he moved closer to Grace, it made her blush and feel all warm inside, she couldn’t understand how a man who was so hard and cold sometimes at work could actually be so loving and tender away from work. It always made her smile when she thought of how he was in work, not just with suspects but also his own team; to how he was outside of work. Grace smiled at how Frankie and Mel would have loved to see this, and how Spencer would have tried his hardest not to laugh out loud at how different his Boss was. Smiling still she let her mind wander to the team, of Mel and Frankie and the new girls that had joined them.

If they could see the pair of us now. Thought Grace as she thought of Frankie’s laugh and Mel rolling her eyes while grinning from ear to ear, how Spence would looked almost shocked at the thought of her and Boyd together when all knew that secretly he would be the most pleased that both had found happiness. And although both Felix and Stella had only just joined the team she thought that they too, would hope the pair would be happy together.

“Gracie, are you ok?” Boyd’s question brought her out of her dream like state and she smiled at him as he went on.

“You didn’t seem to be with it for a moment there, is everything ok?” She loved how he cared so much about her and with a genuine smile she told him she was fine and that she was just thinking of the team.

“I have been thinking about Mel and Frankie a lot recently also.” Boyd said as he put his head down and lowered his voice as if he felt they would be overheard, as they sat for a moment in comfortable silence Boyd added how he missed them still.

“I miss them too Peter, but they will always be part of the team you know. There are always there with us in our hearts and thoughts.” Sensing she should stop before the pair of them let all those still hurtful and painful memories out, Grace turned her heard away and tried to fight the tears she wanted to let fall.

“Losing Mel and then Frankie has made me realise just how important my team are to me Gracie.” Boyd said as he looked up at Grace, knowing he had fallen and that he could never forgive himself if she left tonight and he hadn’t told her how he felt truly felt.

“And just how easy it is to lose someone and never having them know how I feel about them. The thoughts of not being able to tell someone I care about that I care about them scares me Gracie!” Boyd was trying with all he had to tell Grace how he felt; he just never thought it would be this hard. As the two friends sat in silence Boyd knew he would have to do something before the night ended, and as the pair moved over to the restaurant and had dinner together both sensed that telling each other how they felt would be a little harder than they both first thought. After what seemed like an age Grace tried to broach the subject.

“I know I don’t always say it but I always feel safe in your company Peter, thank you for that.” Hoping he would get the hint Grace smiled more over the fact that she knew he had no idea when it came to hints!

As the two finished dinner and left Grace slipped her arm instinctively through Boyd’s as they walked to his car, which thankfully was parked some way away. Taking in the beauty of the night Grace felt like she had made the biggest mistake of her life as the silence became obvious between the pair. Half way to his car Boyd spoke.

“Grace I am glad you feel safe with me, I will always try my best to protect you. You know that I care about you and I have strong feelings for you.” Boyd bit his bottom lip as he started to sweat inside at the thought he could only get it all wrong and ruin his career but also lose his friendship with Grace, and that’s what scared him the most. Taking a deep breath Boyd spoke as they headed off again,

“Gracie, you know that we have always been good friends right?” Still biting his bottom lip Boyd was unsure of not only himself but what he was actually going to say to the woman he had fallen totally in love with.

“Yes of course Peter and I am glad that we are.” Wondering why he was skirting around the subject but then of course she realised she too would do much the same.

“You know that I care about you too right, and that I enjoy working with you?” God, why can’t I tell her how I feel? Was all Boyd could think as he tried to find the words he needed and wanted to say.

“Of course I do Peter and you know the feeling is mutual. Why on earth else would I put up with your mood swings, your temper and bad habits!” Although it was said in jest both knew there was a tinge of truth to her words and Boyd knew it, he also knew that it was now or never for him. They were already walking at a snails pace but half way towards his car, so taking a deep breath Boyd swallowed hard and spoke.

“Gracie?” Pausing to gather himself and take another deep breath, he continued after she had made some audible noise that she was indeed listening. I’m in love with you! Was what went through his mind when all he could say was,

“I have very strong feelings for you.” Cursing himself for his own shyness he went to keep walking but Grace had stopped dead in her tracks, he too came to a stand still next to her and they were both silent for a few moments.

“What are you trying to tell me Peter?” Grace said as she realised she may well have to make the first move here. Blind panic flooded her already overloaded mind at this thought, and as she turned to look at Boyd she managed to catch a glimpse of the uncertainty that was in her own eyes; thankfully though she had been able to keep her own feelings closely guarded.

As a very nervous and unconfident Boyd stood stuck to the same spot as, looking in her eyes he spoke.

“Gracie, I think… no, I know I am in love with you.” Was all he could manage as the other words Boyd had deep within him finally got stuck in his throat, he wanted to say more but he just couldn’t. As soon as he’d said it she had felt her heart skip a beat and although all she wanted to do was hug and kiss him all Grace could manage was a cool and calm moment where she silently composed herself and then walked off towards the direction of Boyd’s car. Leaving Boyd stood stuck to the spot and feeling very venerable, just as she arrived at his car Grace who was by now smiling was joined by a very silent Boyd who was by now in two minds as to if he had just done the right thing. As they drove back to Grace’s home in almost silence all Boyd could think was that he had not only made a mistake and ruined his career but also possible lost the friendship of the one woman he needed the most. While all Grace could think about was how she should tell him she felt the same, especially when she was still so unsure of her own beauty and ability.

As they pulled to a halt outside Grace’s house Grace took a deep breath and got ready to admit her own feelings but as she turned to face Boyd she found he had already launched into a full blown apology and was about ready to offer his resignation when she stopped him by putting her fingers to his lips while smiling and shushing him.

“Peter, I feel the same way about you, I am just worried and unsure about any relationship we start.” Pausing to choose her words carefully she continued.

“There will be and is a lot against us if we were to start seeing each other.” Grace knew that deep inside she would never love another man this way and that if she let him go now her heart would undoubtedly break into a million pieces, trying to be strong Grace sighed and went to leave the car. She was stopped by Boyd’s hand upon her arm and his next words.

“Why should we not be together if we love each other and are happy together?” Knowing he was probably right Grace sighed and after settling back into the seat closed her eyes and tilted her head back upon the head rest.

Moving closer towards her Boyd was thankful Grace did the same, after getting this far he wasn’t ready to just give up and walk away so Boyd took the bull by the horns and spoke.

“Grace I love you, be with me?” As his words brought a shocked Grace to awake with a jolt and turn her head towards him Boyd took his chance, moving forward very swiftly he had planted his soft tender lips upon hers before she had the chance to argue or answer him. Thankful she didn’t push him away Boyd began to continue with this soft tender and gentle assault upon her lips getting lost in the moment and the passion with which he was feeling. The passion with which he kissed her Grace felt her heartbeat increasing and her spine tingle, she was almost overwhelmed by the feelings that were being created deep within her soul. Feelings Grace hadn’t felt in a long time, feelings she had thought long since died and those same feelings she was sure Boyd was feeling himself. Both became lost in the moment and would have stayed like this forever had her small cry of pleasure against his lips made him aware of where there were, knowing she must stop but not wanting to Grace let her small cry of pleasure escape from her lips.

As they finally parted from their most passionate embrace Grace was a struggling hard to catch her breath and was more than a little relieved to find that Boyd too was having a hard time trying to catch his breath, as the silence descended upon them both Grace led the way and left the car, closely followed by Boyd who was seemingly still struggling to catch his breath. And now as the stood poised at Grace’s front door, both still a little breathless and still a little unsure both let that comfortable air of silence descend upon the moment. Grace could actually feel herself shaking, so much so that she was sure he could tell she was shaking, looking up into his big brown eyes she noticed how his usual confidence and fire was gone. They were replaced by worry and questioning. It was at that moment Grace knew not only did he feel the same way she felt but he had always felt this way, for as long as she herself had. The other thing she had noticed was that she just seemed to know that things would work out between them and that they would be ok. Smiling a genuine smile, Grace kissed Boyd on the cheek before taking him by the hand and leading him inside. As she shut the door behind them both Grace knew that although it had been a long time she would always be safe in his arms.

In Your Arms I Know I’m Safe. (Boyd's Story)

As he finished getting ready he was in too minds whether he really was doing the right thing or not. It had been nearly ten years now since his wife had left him and even longer since he had been out on a date! That honour went to Jess, the woman he had… ‘been intimate with’ he hated saying it was an affair. That made him sound like an old letch and he hoped he was not that! Since their friendship had ended and Mary left Boyd had not really had time for women, it was not that he did not want to be with somebody or that he was happy it was more a case of he was scared. Scared to death that he would get it all wrong again and he would get hurt once again, maybe he was better off alone? Boyd thought to himself as he sat on the edge of the bed and started to dress, it wasn’t like he was a great catch and he hardly ever had any free time to spare. But then again she must of known that the day she meet him, I mean after all she had seen for herself first hand just what he had to put up with and go though.

As Boyd finished getting ready he could not help but feel nervous and worried, he was like a lovesick teenager! There was no denying he found her attractive and wanted to get closer to him, but after so long would she feel the same way. As he got in his car and took the long drive to where they were to meet his mind drifted back to the day he had meet her. It had been a nasty case he had been dealing with when she first walked into his life, a girl had been abducted and the Police had been contacted but due to various reasons things went wrong and the girl was killed. He always felt like he was to blame for her murder so when, ten years later another girl was taken Boyd wasn’t about to get this one wrong. He drew on his vast experience and knowledge to get the best people working for him and on this case, and that is where she came in! Of all the people he had chosen she was the one he had desperately wanted on his team the most, she was highly respected and he knew if anyone could help him it was her.

Right from the word go they had hit it off and right from the first time he has seen her Boyd had fallen, and fallen hard. It was everything about her, he just could not help it or himself and although they were only ever friends and colleagues he would always wish and hope for more. Boyd just knew deep down inside that if he was to ever find another woman it would be her that could make him happy and make his life right again, he didn’t need anyone to tell him that but when, she had told him he ‘needed a good woman in his life’ he couldn’t help but wish it was herself she talked about. As the car pulled up outside the restaurant Boyd could not help feel the same nervous he had when he asked her for this drink, which soon became dinner! Of course he knew the risks he, well they were both taking! However, after she had stolen his heart so much and knew so much about him how could he ever really let her go? Especially now that he was so close, so close to holding her, touching her, telling her he loved her.

That thought alone scared him; it had been a long time since he had loved anyone let alone told them so. What if she didn’t feel the same way about him? What if she turned him down? How could they ever work together again? Was all that went through his mind as he slowly walked into the bar area and looked around for her, seeing her sat at the bar looking even more stunning that usual. Boyd could feel how hot and sweaty his palms were and as he tried to control his heartbeat and the weak feeling in his legs he slowly took a deep breath and walked over to her side. As he approached he tried to think of what he should say but his mind was completely blank, he had it all work out before he got her but that was then and this is now! Inches away and she turned to face him her deep blue eyes could almost see right through into his soul as she smiled at him, he felt calmed and relaxed. But still unable to speak as his deep brown eyes never left her deep blue ones, they stay like this; just looking into each other’s eyes for ages before she spoke.

“Peter, I thought you weren’t going to make it.” Her soft voice warmed his soul he felt himself blushing as he went to answer her.

“Of course I would be here! Why wouldn’t I?” Trying not to let his nerves and fears show he noted how she was smiling as she spoke.

“Because I know you Peter, I know you find some excuse or other to chicken out!” Smiling he knew she was right, but then again she was always right when it came to him, she always seemed to read him so well. She probably knew how he felt about her but she just wanted him to be a man about it and say something, or maybe she didn’t want to go there because they worked together. And there was his fears and nervousness back again, he would always be unsure about himself at times and although he had very little to be unsure about but there were moments of his life when he just couldn’t help himself. She picked up very quickly on his fears and suggested they have a drink before dinner.

As they sat with their drinks in their hands both relaxed into that comfortable silence both seemed to know so well and although both were happy with this it wasn’t getting either of them anywhere nearer to where they both wanted and needed to be. As the night continued they talked as normal about everything and anything, as they sat down to dinner the same thing occurred and the pair would find comfort in the silence and any conversation but what they wanted and needed to talk about. Deep inside she wanted to say something, every since Mel had died she had known he had feelings for her, but he would never bring it up. It was her he had sought comfort with when he needed it most and it was he she wanted, she had always felt this way about him. Every since she first came to work for him, he was the kind of guy that could restore her faith in men and possible the only man that could love her. When Mel died she had been devastated by it; they all had but while she tried to be the strong one for Boyd and all the team when she needed someone too and the only one she could go to was the one man who needed her most.

As the evening drew to a close both knew they each had to say something or this evening would be lost, forever destined to be just another night out with ‘a friend and colleague.’ While neither wanted to be the first to go down this line of conversation neither wanted the night to be like that. As Boyd walked her back to his car she took a deep breath and spoke.

“You know Peter; I never really say how safe you make me feel. I know we are friends and colleagues, but I have always felt safe and comfortable in your company. I should say that more often.” Taking another deep breath she hoped and prayed he would get the idea and that she hadn’t just made a huge mistake. Smiling slightly, Boyd took a deep breath and said what had been on his mind since they first met.

“I want you to always feel safe with me. I know we are just colleagues and friends, but I have been in love with you since we first met.”

Although he wanted to say more the words got stuck in his throat and he found himself stood silently trying to get the words out as she stopped dead in her tracks and for a few moments was silent, before she continued to walk off to Boyd’s car leaving Boyd where he stood still silent and shocked. All he could thing was he had just done the wrong thing and he was about to screw it all up again, following her to his car and unlocking it they got in and drove off in silence. Oh God what have I done? Was all that went through his mind as they drove off, while all she thought was if she was about to do the right thing by letting any type of loving physical relationship happen between the two of them. Of course she already knew the answer to that one, she loved him just as much as he seemed to love her but of course there would be fears; it was only natural. This would also be the first time she had ever made the first move and if she was honest, even though she knew how he felt about her she was still scared.

As Boyd pulled to a halt outside her house, the fear had reached an all time high and he was about ready to apologise to her and offer his resignation as an apology, turning to face her Boyd sensed she was about to speak; he got in there first.

“Look, I’m sorry if I have said the wrong thing and made you uncomfortable. The last thing I want is to ruin our friendship or working relationship.” As he was about to add he was happy to resign she spoke.

“Peter, I feel the same way about you! I always have. I just needed to make sure I wasn’t about to regret this.” Pausing she noted his confused look and spoke again.

“Peter, I love you and I know I will always feel safe in your arms." Smiling at him she took his hand and moved towards his lips, without stopping to let her nervous kick in she kissed him. Softly and gently upon the lips, she felt how his shock turned into comfort and then desire and he softly and tenderly kissed her back.

Pulling away slightly she felt relaxed in the comfortable silence that fell between them. As he walked her to the door, Boyd hesitated at the door. Wanting to go further but unsure if he should he stood there while she took his hand and kissed him again. As she pulled away from his kiss she went to speak but he shushed her lips with his fingers and gently stroked her lips with his fingertips, smiling at her he all he could do was mumble.

“Oh Gracie.” Softly and quietly, as she took him by the hand and led her into her home both knew what they want and both knew the kiss they had just shared would never end in just a kiss. As they stood in her living room both kissed a true lovers kiss, one that both knew would never end and both knew this was right for both of them. Their love and passion for one another was no long in doubt and no longer would either of them be alone again.

Next morning Grace awoke to the unfamiliar feeling of Boyd’s arm around her waist as she leaned up against his solid naked warm chest, and although he was spooning her she could tell he was awake and smiling. Smiling back she turned slightly and silently looked at this gorgeous man lying next to her.

“Good morning beautiful, did you sleep well baby?” Boyd said as he gently kissed her neck. Moving her head slightly Grace nodded and spoke.

“It was the best night’s sleep I’ve had in a very long time.” As the comfortable silence once again descended upon them, Grace shut her eyes and cuddled further into Boyd’s chest. Moments later the rhythmic beeps of her alarm took both that it was time for work, still smiling both dressed and left for work.

“Do we say anything to the team?” It had been on both of their minds but it was Grace that finally said it. He had known it was coming but he still had no idea how to answer it.

“I am happy to keep quiet if you are.” Ok that wasn’t completely true, if he was honest with himself all Boyd really wanted to do was shout it from the roof tops that he loved this beautiful woman next to him. But he was also well aware that with the team almost falling apart still and the top brass out to get the Unit it may not be ‘that’ easy and God forbid it ever happened but the decision could be taken from his hands. Grace smiled to herself knowing that he wasn’t telling her the complete truth, she knew deep down he wanted to shout it from the roof tops and if she was honest she too herself wanted to do the same!As they pulled up to the Unit they were both still involved in the familiar comfortable silence both knowing neither need to say anymore but both wanting to.

“I don’t feel like we should be hiding our feelings and relationship Peter, we are adults after all.” The moment she walked in all the team would know something was wrong anyway, so why hide from them all Grace thought to herself. Taking her hand in his Boyd sat there silently smiling knowing it was what he had wanted since last night and knowing it was the right thing he took Grace in his arms and kissed her with such passion she could almost feel her heart melting.

“I love you Gracie, I always have. No hiding ok?” Boyd said as they pulled away from each other and got out of the car.“No hiding Peter! I love you too.” Grace answered as the quickly kissed and entered the Unit, arms around each other unsure what their team would think but knowing they both felt safe in each other’s arms.

Untitled Rage... Caged Fury... Painful Hurt.

I am hurt.
I am angry.
I am lost and I am lonely.
I want help finding my way.
Need help finding my way!
Here I sit this nice, kind, caring person.
With heart of gold and friendly nature.
I give all to everyone, and rarely get anything back.
But still I don't mind, still I give all that I have.
No ulterior motives, no underlying reasons.
Just because...
But now the hurt and pain are rife.
Now my heart is dying inside.
I am filled with a rage and anger I have never felt before.
Ready to explode with a violent fury.
The likes of which I have never seen or felt before.
How did this happen and when did it change?
Is this really me and how my life has changed?
I feel wounded now and want to cry.
I long for the time when my tears no longer fall.
I long for the day when I don’t wake up wishing I were dead.
Oh how I long for that day; and the day when I don’t have to fight.
My emotions are no longer my own.
Were they ever mine in the first place?
One moment I can be up; happy and glad.
The next I am down; angry and sad.
Will I ever be free, will the pain ever stop?
How can I fix these feelings inside of me?
Will it really take my death for them to see;
That all I ever need to be was me?