For Whom the Bell Tolls...

By Cheeya

 

 

Disclaimer: The characters in this story are mine. No copyright infringement of any kind is intended.

Sex/language: Present and accounted for ;-) If sex between two women bothers you, then I guess you'd better mosey on outta here. (It's very mild though)

Special note: This story deals with the aftermath of a rape and shooting. I've tried to keep it as mild as I can but please be warned. I don't like upsetting people.

Comments/Constructive criticism: [email protected]

 

 

Chapter 1

 

Yes, I know but, c'mon, can you really expect a hot-blooded lesbian such as myself NOT to watch a bunch of women playing basketball in skimpy shorts? Alright, don't answer that. I actually do have a reason for being here. You see, I did something really stupid.

 

I found myself a beautiful woman and then lost her.

 

Yeah, fair enough. I hear you saying that this happens all the time but what's really stupid about it is the fact that I fell in love with her... and never told her. I let her get on a plane and fly out of my life.  Beyond stupid, huh? Hence my reason for being here.

 

It all started when I arrived home in Oak Falls. I'd just finished my master's degree in computer programming and networking and, free of university forever, I was determined to enjoy myself for the summer.

 

The first thing I did when I got back was to visit my favourite haunt, the only gay bar in Oak Falls - Cherry's. The moment I walked into the dimly lit room, all eyes turned to me. I greeted some old friends and went to the bar to sit myself on a tall stool. I guess I'm a kinda butch lesbian. I'm six feet tall with long, dark hair and blue eyes. I've been told I'm beautiful but I've also been asked why I cover it up with the leather I tend to gravitate towards. That night, my first night back in Oak Falls, I was dressed in snug, black jeans, a black silk shirt and a leather jacket. Baby, I was getting laid... or so I hoped.

 

Cherry is my best friend in the world and has been since junior high. After flunking out of college, she worked three jobs to save enough money to buy an old bar and renovate it into this wonderful establishment. Despite the fact that the town council wants rid of it, she does surprisingly good business.

 

Sipping on a beer, I watched the patrons coming in and out. Some I knew, some I didn’t but, hey, that could have been due to plastic surgery or liposuction. Me? I hadn’t changed since High School so everyone knew me.

 

"Welcome back, Cam," Cherry chuckled as she raised her glass in a toast. I clinked mine against it and grinned.

 

"Thanks, I've missed this place." We both took a swallow. My friend leaned on the bar as she peered at me.

 

"You going back to do a doctorate or..."

 

I held up my hands and shook my head firmly. "Nooo way! I have enough of the college life. I'm twenty-four years old. It's time I started earning some money. I'm still living with my folks for Christ's sake."

 

"You gonna get a job here over the summer?" Cherry asked as she eyed a heterosexual couple that had come in.

 

I chuckled. "Need a bouncer?" I laughed then as the couple spotted two guys making out and fled the bar.

 

"Nah," my friend replied good-naturedly. "No need for one around here. You know how quiet it is."

 

"I guess I've forgotten," I replied ruefully, realising that I'd been away for so long that I'd have to get used to boredom all over again. "So..." I went on, pushing the ugly thoughts from my mind. "How's Della?"

 

Cherry's face lit up at the mention of her partner's name. "She's great. I've never been happier."

 

I rubbed her arm gently. "I'm glad. How long have you two been together now?"

 

"Six years. Can you believe that the commitment ceremony was three years ago?"

 

"Wow." I was, to be honest, just a little jealous. Della was indeed the catch of Oak Falls and Cherry had caught her. I had, once again, been left in the dirt.

 

"What about you," my friend asked. "You got anyone special?"

 

"No," I replied somewhat dejectedly. "Know of anyone looking for a good time?"

 

"Just my cousin," Cherry laughed. "But, hell, she's as straight as an arrow. It's a shame too. She'd whoop your butt into line in no time."

 

I pursed my lips as I mulled this over. The challenge of seducing a straight woman always took my fancy but I was reluctant to make a play for anyone in Cherry's family. Luckily, she solved my problem for me.

 

"Listen, Cam. Any chance you could do me a favour and take her sightseeing? I've got a fuck load of deliveries coming in over the next few days and I don't want to have her stuck here or on her own. She's a nice person and cute too, if you can turn her head."

 

I snickered, knowing that turning her head wouldn’t be a problem. "Sure, but can I borrow your truck? Sightseeing ain't so much fun on a motorbike."

 

"No problem," Cherry replied with a wink. "She's arriving tomorrow. Can you pick her up at about one from mine?"

 

"Will do," I grinned. "What's her name by the way?"

 

"Her name is Brook and she's twenty-two years old."

 

I nodded. Brook. I liked the sound of it.

 

Needless to say, the rest of the evening went slowly but surely and I went home... alone.

 

**

 

Chapter 2

 

I was surprised when I woke the next day to find that I was looking forward to my job as a guide. Not that there was much to see in Oak Falls but the forests had some nice trails and I knew I could rustle up a picnic despite the fact that I can’t cook to save my life.

 

But I digress.

 

Cherry's dad had picked Brook up from the airport and brought her to Cherry's house earlier in the day. It was now twelve-twenty and I was stepping out of the shower to towel off. At twelve-forty five, all six feet of me was on my way to pick Brook up. I parked my bike in the garage and backed the truck out in preparation for the trip. Then I knocked on the hall door.

 

"Hi, Camryn," Mr Walker greeted as he opened the door. "Thanks for agreeing to this."

 

"Not a problem," I replied as I stepped into the house and wandered into the living room. "She's here, right?"

 

"Yeah, she's up in her room unpacking. She'll be down in a minute. Want a beer?"

 

I shook my head solemnly. "No, thanks. I'm driving Cherry's truck and she'll be very upset if I dent it."

 

Mr Walker laughed. "You got that right, Camryn." He paused and we both heard footsteps coming down the stairs. The door opened but I had my back to it so I stood and turned, a smile plastered to my face... that froze as I saw Brook Walker for the first time.

 

For a moment, I couldn’t breathe. She stole the breath from my body with a single look. The woman was, quite simply, beautiful.

 

"Hi," she said softly, smiling gently at me.

 

"Hi," I replied, unable to come up with a single other word. Luckily, I was saved from abject embarrassment when Mr Walker stepped in.

 

"Brook, I'd like you to meet Cherry's friend, Camryn. She's gonna be showing you around for the next couple of days." Then he turned to me and winked. "Camryn, this is Brook Walker, your passenger for a while."

 

Moving in a trance-like state, I saw my hand offer itself to be shaken. Brook took it and I immediately felt soft skin press against my palm. "It's nice to meet you, Camryn," she said, her words bringing forward more than a hint of a southern accent... Texas, I thought.

 

"You too, Brook," I replied, finally regaining my composure. "I was thinking we could drop by the bar before we head out. I know Cherry's dying to see you."

 

My new friend was drool-over-able. At about five foot four, she's considerably shorter than I am but you know what they say... 'Good things come in small packages'. Short, shaggy blonde hair and tanned skin added to the package and it was obvious that she works out. Her entire body is made up of light muscle covered in a layer of soft skin. The feature that captured me though from her very first smile was her eyes... sea green with a hint of blue that sparkled with mirth when she shook my hand. Yeah, drool-over-able and definitely gaze-into-able.

 

"I'm looking forward to seeing her too," Brook replied as she ran a hand through her hair and grinned. "Just let me change. I'll be right back."

 

"Change?" I almost groaned as I watched her denim-covered butt sway its way out of the room. "Um... ok!"

 

Mr Walker chuckled and I blushed as he winked at me. "Cute, huh?"

 

I had to swallow a few times before I could answer. "Yeah, she's very cute."

 

"And very straight," he added.

 

I sighed dramatically. "We can’t all be perfect," I deadpanned.

 

"That's right, we can't," came Brook's voice from the door and I immediately flushed a deep red. My new friend giggled and grabbed my hand. "Come on, Camryn. We've got some sightseeing to do."

 

"Yes, Ma'am," I replied.

 

It was only when we were walking to the truck when I realised she'd changed into cycling shorts and a sleeveless top. I had to look away in an effort to keep my composure. Remember those muscles I mentioned earlier? Well, in this new outfit, they moved very nicely under her skin and every hormone in my sexually frustrated body stood up to pay attention. By the time I was turning the key in the ignition, I was wondering what I'd done to make God punish me in this way.

 

"So, did you have a good trip up here?" I asked casually as I rolled down my window.

 

She smiled at me as she rolled her own window down. "Yeah, I did, thanks. It was a bit scary on the flight 'cos of turbulence but it was ok. You guys are living in some beautiful country up here."

 

"It's very quiet up here... some might even say boring. I've been away at UCLA so I've only just got back." I chuckled. "I haven’t had the chance to be bored yet."

 

Brook rested her elbow on the window frame and ran her fingers along the dashboard. "I can’t imagine this place being boring with my cousin around."

 

I had to give her that. Cherry's was hopping every night. "True. It's a really great bar." I paused then. "Um... you know it's a gay bar, right?"

 

She nodded. "Sure. Not a problem. Are you sleeping with my cousin?"

 

I almost ran down a small animal in my shocked state. "Me? No! No, Cherry's married."

 

Brook's eyebrows lifted. "Married?"

 

"Yeah." I wondered if I should have been relaying this information. "She and Della had a commitment ceremony."

 

"Cool. Glad she's faithful. How long ago was the commitment ceremony?"

 

"Three years ago."

 

"Right, that would have made me..."

 

"Nineteen," I supplied helpfully. "You're twenty-two now, right?"

 

"Yeah," Brooke replied. "How about you?"

 

"Twenty-four. Just finished my Master's in computer programming and networking."

 

"Cool," my friend nodded. "I've just finished a Bachelor's in English."

 

"That's why you're up here?" I asked. "To take a break from schoolwork?"

 

Brook seemed to leave for a few minutes and drift into a little place of her own but she pulled herself back and a half-smile pulled at her lips. "Kinda. It's a little more complicated than that."

 

I didn’t ask and was glad when we reached the parking lot of Cherry's. My Texan friend seemed a little uncomfortable. "Come on," I said. "If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable or hits on you, just come see me, ok?"

 

Brook nodded seriously. "Ok, thanks."

 

I smiled reassuringly. "Don’t worry. Just stick close to Cherry or me. It's early anyway. There probably won't even be anyone in here yet." The moment we ducked inside however, I knew I was very wrong. I'd forgotten about the plans being made for the gay pride parade and as a result, forgot that every gay person in town and from the surrounding towns would be here. I looked at Brook who looked back with a small smile. "Alright, let's go."

 

Cherry was standing behind the bar washing glasses but when she looked up and saw her cousin, a slow smile spread across her face. "Well, look what we have here," she exclaimed as she hopped over the counter. Brook closed the rest of the distance between them and they hugged fiercely.

 

"Cherolyn Anna Walker, it is sooo good to see you!" she exclaimed.

 

Cherry grinned and ruffled her cousin's shaggy locks. "No one gets away with calling me that but you. I missed you, Kid."

 

I smiled when Brook hugged Cherry again. "Not such a kid anymore," she replied as my friend rubbed her back.

 

"I know. I'm very, very sorry, Brook."

 

"Not your fault, Honey. So, here I am. This place is great!" She held out a hand to me and I went to her without even thinking, grasping her hand gently. "And you have the nicest friends."

 

I blushed. Sue me.

 

Cherry laughed. "Wait 'til you get to know her."

 

I scowled playfully. "On behalf of myself... HEY!" Then I smiled as the hand holding mine squeezed just a little bit. "Let's have a drink," I suggested as I led my two friends back to the bar.

 

"On the house. What'll it be?" Cherry asked.

 

"Just a Diet Coke," I replied. "As I told your dad, I wouldn’t want to dent that really nice truck of yours."

 

"No, you wouldn't," my friend replied with a warning look.

 

Brook laughed softly and then stood again. "Bathroom. Be right back." She headed for the ladies with my eyes glued to her.

 

"She's nice, huh?" Cherry commented.

 

"Fuck nice," I replied. "She's the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. Damn women who are that beautiful and straight!"

 

I heard the bartender chuckle but she just went back to drying glasses. I waited for Brook to come back and I felt an involuntary smile leap onto my face when I saw her. Then I saw the other woman. Brook made a beeline for me and stood very close, reaching across me to grab my glass and take a sip. The tagalong sauntered over and placed her hand on my new friend's shoulder. She was obviously more drunk than not.

 

"Hey, Baby. You're new in town, right? I've never seen you around here before."

 

It was only when Brook looked at me that I copped the panic in her eyes. I immediately wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her to me, feeling her step back between my open thighs and relax back into my body. I rested my chin on her shoulder. "That's 'cos she came up from LA with me," I growled, very clearly stating my territory.

 

The woman immediately backed off. "Sorry, Camryn. I didn’t know she was yours." Then she looked at Brook. "You've got a good one there. Hold on to her."

 

I was taken aback by what the woman said, considering I didn’t even know her, but what surprised me even more was Brook's answer. She looked back at me over her shoulder and smiled warmly. "I intend to," she said softly.

 

Somewhere behind me, I heard Cherry choke on a glass of coke. I knew how she felt. My tongue was in a knot so I just nuzzled Brook's ear and squeezed her. Her hands rested on top of mine and we rocked a little. The woman took off. Brook didn’t move. "Thanks for that," she said, looking back at me.

 

"Don't mention it," I replied as I released my grip on her. She moved away slowly but rested her hand on my thigh as she hopped up onto the stool beside me. "First time being hit on by a woman?"

 

"Nope," she replied brightly. "But it was my first time being hit on by someone that pushy. She tried to kiss me in the bathroom and I ducked."

 

I chuckled as Brook laughed. I noticed that a little wrinkle of skin formed over her nose when she did. It was very cute. Then I realised that her hand was still resting on my thigh. I looked down at it and then back to her face. It seemed to dawn on her too because she immediately removed her hand and tried to cover her surprise. She cleared her throat. "So where to after this?" she asked as she curled her fingers around my glass and stole it again.

 

My thigh was tingling distractingly. "Well, I was kinda thinking about a walk on this little mountain trail I know and then a picnic dinner. I have a basket in the back of the truck."

 

"Mmmm, I'm impressed. You're going to make a wonderful guide. I just know it."

 

I blushed again. Dammit.

 

"Thanks." I had no idea where my sudden shyness came from but when I looked at Cherry, she held up and waggled her little finger. I scowled at her but she just laughed and went back to drying glasses.

 

"So let's go then," Brook said. I nodded and grinned at Cherry as her cousin hugged her. "Seeya later, Cherry."

 

"Bye, Kid. And I'm warning you, Camryn Wells." She pointed a finger at me. "If my truck comes back with as much as a scratch on it..."

 

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," I teased, rolling my eyes playfully. "You'll kill me. I know."

 

My friend nodded firmly. "Yes. Good. I'm glad we understand each other."

 

I gave a little wave, caught Brook's hand and, with a little tug on it, led her back to the truck. We buckled in and then I carefully backed the truck out of its space. It was a warm, breezy afternoon and when Brook pulled her head back inside the truck, she looked all cute and windswept.

 

"Can I ask you a question?" she asked quietly as I carefully checked my mirrors. I was taking Cherry's threat seriously.

 

"Sure."

 

"Did Cherry tell you about... um... me? About why I'm here?"

 

I looked at her and saw the pain in her eyes for the first time. "No," I said. "I really don't know anything about you apart from what you've told me."

 

"Oh," she replied so softly that I almost didn’t catch it. She seemed to think about that, so I stayed quiet and drove. It was just about 3pm when we reached the spot I'd intended. Brook hopped out of the truck and took a deep breath of fresh mountain air, grinning at me as she slowly and carefully stretched her petite frame. God, the woman was even more beautiful bathed in sunlight. It brought out the almost red hints in her blonde hair and her eyes sparkled like the sun on the ocean. I was captivated for a long moment and then I quickly kicked myself in the ass. The subject of my crush was straight and I had to remember that.

 

I scratched over my brow as I tried to think of something to say. "This is my favourite spot around here," I began. "When I was younger, my father used to take me up here for a spot of fishing. It's still my favourite thing to do when I'm up here."

 

Brook nodded excitedly. "Cool! I've never been fishing before."

 

"You haven’t?" I asked, feigning shock. "Well, we'll just have to change that. Why don't we come up here tomorrow? I'll teach ya."

 

"You mean with a pole and a line and all?"

 

I chuckled softly. "Sure. Interested?"

 

My friend nodded enthusiastically. "You bet I am!" Then she held out her hand to me. "C'mon. You've got a mountain trail to show me." Somewhere in the back of my mind, I realised I was strolling along a hiking path holding the hand of a straight girl with a secret that she hadn’t revealed to me. In the front of my mind, I just grinned and went with it. It was very warm and I'd left my jacket behind me in the truck but before long, I'd rolled up my sleeves and opened the top four buttons of my shirt. I was wearing a black sports bra underneath and Brook laughed softly as I fanned myself. "You know, black is not such a good colour to wear in this heat," she pointed out solemnly.

 

I arched an eyebrow at her. "Oh really?"

 

"Uh huh," she nodded sagely. "Especially your... um... " She pointed at my bra. "Underwear." She blushed a little and looked away then.

 

"So what do you suggest I do?" I deadpanned. "Take it off?"

 

Blonde eyebrows shot up and disappeared into Brook's hairline. "I didn't... um... I..." She rubbed her flushed cheeks, suddenly at a loss for words and I had to take pity on her.

 

"I'm just teasing ya. I'm not gonna undress in front of ya... " I grinned then. "Although it wouldn’t be the first time."

 

Those eyebrows disappeared again. "Oh yeah?" Brook seemed genuinely curiously so I nodded.

 

"My first year of college, I got drunk and took part in a wet t-shirt competition. Actually," I scratched my cheek sheepishly. "I was forced to take part. My friends' excuse was that I was the tallest so I stood out more. I was too drunk to care."

 

My friend laughed helplessly. "I can just imagine you towering over all the other contestants," she choked out.

 

I adjusted my pack on my back and wiped my sweaty brow. "It was weird because I still think I was the only woman in the competition who was... um... all natural..." I winked. "If you know what I mean."

 

Brook looked down at the ground and kicked at a small rock, scuffing the toe of her sneaker a little. Then she mumbled something, her eyes still fixed on the trail.

 

I leaned closer to her. "What?"

 

She looked up and cleared her throat, that light blush returning to her face. "Did you win?"

 

"Actually... um... yeah, I did."

 

"Thought so," she mumbled and I stopped suddenly, surprised by her reply.

 

"What do you mean?" I asked.

 

Brook looked thoroughly embarrassed but she took a breath and forged on. "I'm not surprised you won. You're pretty damn gorgeous, Camryn."

 

The subject of my crush had just paid me a wonderful complement so I did what any other mature, twenty-four year old woman would do... I blushed so red that I began to understand what a lobster felt like. "Th-thanks," I stammered softly.

 

My friend laughed softly. "And completely adorable."

 

"You're embarrassing me," I growled as I looked up at the treetops but when I looked back at Brook and saw the uncertainty on her face, I shook my head. "Sorry, I... I don't get compliments like that very often." I shrugged. "Guess I need to learn how to take 'em gracefully, huh?"

 

She smiled then and released my hand, linking her arm through mine instead and hugging it. "I'm a little surprised that you don't," she admitted. "Get them, I mean." She poked me playfully in the stomach. "Boy, you work out, huh?"

 

I laughed and poked her right back. "So do you." It was only then that I saw the pain on her face. I stopped immediately. "What is it? Did I hurt you?"

 

Holding onto my arm with an iron grip, Brook released a pained breath and shook her head. "Not your fault... I... I've been in hospital and I'm not quite healed completely yet."

 

"Shit, I'm so sorry. Can you go on?" I asked worriedly. "Or do you want to go back to the truck?"

 

"No, I'd rather go on," she replied with a little smile. "It's ok. Tell ya what, why don't we pick a nice spot for our picnic? That way, I can rest for a while."

 

Still worried, I agreed and twenty minutes later, I was unpacking my bag and spreading a blanket out on the mossy ground. Brook stretched herself out on the blanket and watched as I worked. "Coffee or soda?" I asked as I held up the two beverages.

 

"Soda, please," my friend replied, wincing a little as she reached over to take the can from me.

 

"Hey," I said softly as I moved closer to her. "Don't do anything that hurts, ok? If you need something just ask me, got it?"

 

Our eyes locked for a moment and I found I couldn’t quite look away. In the sea green irises, I could make out hints of blue and flecks of gold. They captivated me. "Thanks," Brook replied softly. Then she looked away. "You haven’t asked."

 

"Huh?" I frowned, not understanding.

 

"You haven’t asked about anything. You haven’t asked why I'm here, or why I was in hospital or..." Her eyes met mine again. "Anything."

 

I smiled. "I figured you'd tell me if you wanted to. It's not my place to pry."

 

Brook returned the smile and pulled up a small blade of grass, playing with it absently. "To be honest, I was surprised Cherry didn't tell you at least part of it."

 

"Surprised? Why?" I wondered.

 

"Because she's closer to you than anyone. She talks about you all the time."

 

"She's my best friend," I replied matter-of-factly. "But she wouldn't betray your trust if you told her something and asked her to keep it quiet. Hell..." I shrugged and chuckled. "She knows all my secrets."

 

Brook lay back and turned onto her side, propping herself up with her elbow as I handed her a chicken sandwich. She took a bite and hummed softly as she licked mayonnaise off her lips. "This is really delicious."

 

"Thanks," I replied, proud of my sandwich making skill. It had taken me years of fishing trips to perfect. I placed the Tupperware container between us and waved at it. "Help yourself."

 

Between us, we finished off the lot and then lay back on the blanket to relax and watch the blue, cloud-speckled sky. I opened the remaining buttons of my shirt and tried to cool down but I squealed when I felt something really cold on my skin. Brook was laughing and when I looked down, I saw that she'd placed several big lumps of ice from the compact cooler on my stomach. Sitting forward and flicking them quickly away, I glared at my new friend and growled deep in my chest. "Now Camryn..." she began, looking very nervous. I got onto my hands and knees and stalked across the blanket, my eyes locked on hers. I could see little beads of sweat on her upper lip and had a sudden urge to lick them off but I mentally slapped myself and got back to the matter at hand... revenge. "Camryn... I was just trying to help cool you off," she said sweetly.

 

"Riiiiggghhhht," I purred as I reached her but I froze as I realised that she wasn't looking into my eyes anymore. She was, instead, staring rather openly at my breasts. I saw her throat move in a swallow and I sat up rather quickly, surprised out of my desire for vengeance. Then her eyes snapped up and she blushed.

 

"I... uh... " She smiled weakly, knowing she was busted. "You won that wet t-shirt competition, huh? Wish mine were as good as yours." I couldn’t help it. I collapsed into laughter and, a moment later, Brook joined me. She laughed until she had to clutch at her stomach. "Oww! Fuck!" she cursed between chortles and I reached over to lay a gentle hand over hers.

 

"Sorry, I shouldn’t have made you laugh like that."

 

"S'okay," she replied. Then she sighed and lifted her t-shirt. "This is what it looks like."

 

I craned my neck as I moved even closer and with a sudden intake of breath, I registered the size of the bandage covering her midsection. "Damn," I murmured softly before looking up at her face. "It must have been bad."

 

"I took a bullet in the abdomen," she replied just as softly. "I had to have my spleen and my..." She swallowed hard. "My womb removed. I lost a baby."

 

It took a moment for the enormity of that statement to hit me but when it did, I felt a pain so profound that it almost made me cry. This beautiful, kind and wonderful woman had not only lost a child but would never be able to have another. I didn’t know what to say so I ran my hand slowly over the bandage, stalling for time to think. "I'm so very sorry," I finally whispered.

 

Nodding, she gently took my hand and squeezed it before pulling down her shirt and lying back. She linked her fingers under her head and stared at the sky. I did the same and we lay together in companionable silence for a long time. I was almost dozing off when Brook's voice floated to me. "So this fishing trip tomorrow... what should I bring?"

 

I turned my head slowly and looked into the eyes of the most courageous woman I'd ever known. "Just bring yourself."

 

I felt as if everything had changed.

 

**

 

It was almost dark by the time we'd packed up and returned to the truck. I slung my pack and the small cooler into the back seat and began buttoning up my shirt but Brook gently pushed my hands away and completed this task for me while I watched with fascination. "I just want to say thanks," she said softly as she ran her hand down my front to smooth the cotton into place. "Not only did I have a wonderful day but you also broke the ice on my telling people about... what happened. I know you probably would like to know the full story but it still hurts..." Her eyes lifted to mine. "A lot. I'm still trying to find a way to deal with it all and today really helped. So thank you and I'll tell you everything as soon as I figure out how exactly."

 

She blew out a long breath and smiled at me as if a great weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Her smile caressed me like the warm sun and my face returned a stupid grin. "I'll be here when you're ready for more," I replied very softly. Then I leaned in and kissed her forehead. She wrapped her arms around my middle and I heard her breath catch as she inhaled. "Alright," I crooned. "I've got ya." Soft sobs shuddered through her but they stopped almost as quickly as they'd begun and she looked up at me sheepishly.

 

"Sorry, Camryn."

 

I shook my head. "No need. Now let's get you into the truck. It's beginning to get a little chilly." Once inside and buckled up, we began the drive back to town.

 

"What should I wear for fishing?" Brook suddenly asked. "I don't own any waders or anything like that."

 

"You won't need them," I replied with a grin. "But dress warmly and in layers. We're going out before dawn."

 

"Before dawn?!" I laughed at the horrified look on my friend's face and nodded. "Alright," she went on, a little uncertainly. "I can do pre-dawn."

 

"Good," I replied as I checked my rear view. "I'll pick you up at five."

 

Brooke sighed dramatically but agreed.

 

After dropping her off at Cherry's house, I parked my best friend's truck back in her garage and retrieved my bike. "Are you sure you'll be ok?" I asked worriedly as she stood on the doorstep to see me off.

 

"Sure. I'm fine, really," she replied with a warm smile. "Besides..." She looked at her watch and grimaced comically. "I'll be seeing you in a few hours anyway."

 

"You sure will," I grinned. "Seeya." I started the bike, waving to her rather than yelling over the roar of the engine. She waved back and mouthed a 'See you later' to me. I winked, lowered my helmet into place and then set off for home.

 

**

 

Chapter 3

 

The pre-dawn light was dim and I yawned sleepily as I stepped out of the shower, wincing as the fluorescent lighting in my bathroom made my eyes sting. I towelled off and then went to dress, choosing a pair of blue jeans, a lumberjack shirt and a heavy sweater from my closet. I dried my hair, braided it and then pulled on thick socks and boots.

 

I smiled a little to myself, remembering the fishing trips my Dad used to take me on. We'd disappear in the morning and not come home until the afternoon, usually carrying a few fish for dinner. Things had changed though. When I went away to college, all my time had been spent studying, including my holiday time in Oak Falls. My Dad had tried to coax me up to the river but I always had something more important to do. Now, I was looking forward to spending some quiet time with a fishing pole and, if I was honest with myself, with Brook too.

 

It was just after five when I arrived at Cherry's house and I smiled when a very sleepy Brook opened the door and pulled me inside by the front of my shirt. "I know this is a dream," she whispered. "For no other reason would I ever be up at this ungodly hour."

 

Seeing the indignant expression on Brook's already cute, tousled visage made me laugh and give her a gentle hug. "I know. I'm sorry it's so early but if we leave it any later, we'll have to deal with tourists," I explained.

 

With a sigh, my friend shook her head. "Just ignore me," she replied. "I'm just feeling a little..."

 

"Are you in pain," I asked worriedly. "We can stay home if..."

 

Two fingers gently pressed themselves against my lips. "Cam, I'm fine. I'm just a little tired is all."

 

Searching her face, I exhaled and nodded. "Alright. Are you ready? I'll get the truck out while you put a jacket on."

 

"Actually," Brook replied, stopping me with a hand on my arm. "I was wondering if we could take your motorbike?"

 

"Um..." I was surprised by the request but nodded my agreement. "Well, sure, if you're up to it. I don't want you to do anything that might hurt you."

 

Brook grinned brightly. "You're sweet to be concerned but I'm ok, Camryn."

 

"If you're sure, we'll take the bike."

 

"Cool! Thanks!" Brook put her hands on my shoulders, stood on her toes and kissed me on the cheek, making me blush again. "This is gonna be so much fun!"

 

I smiled as she ran her hand down my arm and clasped my fingers in her own. "Yeah. Fun." I led her down the path to my bike and handed her my helmet before jogging back to Cherry's garage and borrowing her helmet for myself. While it was still fairly dark, a hazy light was beginning to merge shadow into solidity and, when I looked at Brook, her eyes seemed to glow in the weak illumination. Tearing my eyes away, I got on the bike and then held out my hand for my friend to take. She smiled as she climbed onto the bike behind me and then wrapped her arms around my waist, leaning comfortably against me.

 

The trip up to the river was a short twenty-minute ride and I was almost disappointed when I stopped and let down the bike's stand. For a long moment, Brooke held on to me still and I wondered if she'd fallen asleep but then she smiled up at me and released me. I missed her warmth.

 

"Um... Cam?"

 

"Hm?" I asked as I pulled my helmet off and untucked my braid from my jacket.

 

"Where are the fishing poles?"

 

"Ah." I held up a finger and grinned. Then I rummaged in the saddlebags, pulling out two telescopic fishing poles and a small basket. Handing the folded poles to Brook, I pulled out two packed lunches and a flask of coffee.

 

"Wow," my friend commented. "Are those Mary Poppins' saddlebags?"

 

Laughing softly, I put all the gear in a knapsack and shouldered it. "Ready?"

 

Brook yawned and took my arm, leaning against me as we strolled along the path to the river. By the time we got there, it was six and the sun was already rising over the mountains. We stopped to watch the great glowing ball and I smiled as Brook sat down and pulled me down too.

 

"Can I ask you something?" she said after a moment's comfortable silence.

 

I shrugged. "Sure."

 

"Are you seeing anyone right now?" Brook looked at me, green eyes sparkling as the sun highlighted them and I realised that I could have easily sat there, looking into them for the rest of my life.

 

"No," I replied softly but didn’t elaborate further.

 

"Why?"

 

I picked up some pebbles and let them trickle through my fingers, avoiding her eyes so she wouldn’t see the loneliness in mine. "I don't know," I replied honestly.

 

"Mm." She nodded. "Why did you come back here?"

 

The question surprised me somewhat and I felt a frown of confusion crease my forehead. "It's my home," I replied. "I was raised here."

 

Again Brook nodded. "Do... do you think it's a bad thing to never want to go back to somewhere?"

 

"Not necessarily. It depends on the place and what happened there, I guess."

 

"I don't ever want to go home," my friend almost whispered. "I was shot while walking along the street... two blocks from my house. Every time I think of my old neighbourhood, all I can feel is the searing pain of the bullet and the cold hardness of the sidewalk under my cheek."

 

I reached out and cupped her cheek, wanting to replace the horrible feeling with something better. "No," I replied. "I don't think it's bad to not want to go back somewhere... but the longer you leave it, the more difficult it will become." I saw the mental machinations in Brook's eyes and caught a few tears on my thumb as I softly stroked her cheekbone. She seemed to be warring with herself. I could see the fear and uncertainty in her expressive face. "But you don't need to make that decision right now. You're here for a vacation. Let's just enjoy that for the moment."

 

With a straightening of her shoulders, a firm nod and a cute grin, Brook stood up and dusted off the seat of her pants. "You're totally right and, now that I'm here at..." She paused to look at her watch. "Six-thirty in the morning, you might as well show me how this fishing thing works."

 

"Your wish is my command," I replied with a cocky grin that made her laugh softly.

 

"C'mon, You!"

 

And with my best swaggering stride, I led her to my favourite fishing spot.

 

**

 

"Alright. First kiss?"

 

Shaking my head I chuckled. "Easy. John Cotter when I was ten and Marlene Dunsall when I was fifteen. My turn. First bra?"

 

"Ten," Brook replied. "I was an early starter." But she paused then and looked down at her chest. "And an early finisher too."

 

I laughed as I stepped across the stones and landed back on my friend's side of the river, a nice fish caught in my clenched hand. It eyed Brook and she jumped when it flipped its tail at her. "Gorp."

 

"Jesus," she laughed. "That thing just gorped at me."

 

"You imagined it," I deadpanned. "Fish don't have vocal chords."

 

Pale eyebrows scrunched together in confusion. "I'm losing my mind."

 

"Don't worry about it," I replied seriously. "I lost mine years ago."

 

"Gorp," the fish added.

 

Brook and I collapsed into laughter and I wrapped her up in a hug, which she returned enthusiastically. "C'mon," she said, patting my belly. "Let's take a walk." We loaded the gear back into the knapsack and I picked it up but my friend held out a hand. "It's my turn to carry that."

 

"But..."

 

"No. No arguments. You're not a packhorse, Honey."

 

Hands on hips and a stern look persuaded me that Brook was serious. "Compromise," I countered. "You carry it for twenty minutes, then I carry it for twenty minutes. Deal?" I suddenly realised that she'd called me honey and I couldn’t stop the grin that captured my lips and refused to let go.

 

"Alright. Deal," she replied, smiling quietly. She took the bag and slipped the straps on over her shoulders. "Which way?"

 

I pointed. "This way."

 

"Lead on, MacDuff."

 

So I did.

 

The weather was beautiful and we were both sweating by the time we reached the top of the hill. "Screw this," I panted, pushing some escaped tendrils of hair back from my face. "Let's just sit and relax." It was only then that I noticed how pale Brook had become. She was breathing heavily and she had her hand pressed against her abdomen. "Hey, are you..."

 

"I'm fine," she snapped, surprising me, but I knew she wasn't at all fine.

 

I ignored her remark and scooped her up into my arms. "You're going home to rest," I stated. "And I'm carrying you back so don't even think about objecting."

 

Our eyes met in a battle of will and, for a moment, I though she was going to tell me to fuck off but then her eyes gentled and she nodded, giving in, and merely rested her head against my chest. "Thanks," she murmured. "The pain is bad today."

 

I sighed. "Why didn't you tell me?"

 

"I'm too stubborn and proud," she replied honestly. "I don't like asking for help." The breeze tousled her blonde hair and I was drawn to the gold flecks in her eyes. "Sorry."

 

"It's alright," I replied with a smile. "But, please, in future let me know, ok?"

 

Brook smiled up at me and nodded. "I promise." Then she just went along for the ride.

 

**

 

"How's the pain now?" I asked as I helped Brook to climb onto the motorbike.

 

"S'ok," she replied. "Better than it was. How about you? You look exhausted."

 

"Nah," I lied. Light as Brook was, I was feeling the strain in my back. "Not a problem." I hopped onto the machine and settled myself. Again, warm arms encircled my waist and held on. I grinned, released the kickstand and revved the engine. "Alright?"

 

I felt my friend nod against my back. "Great!" she yelled.

 

"Hold on!" I revved again and then picked up speed until we were cruising back toward Oak Falls.

 

It wasn't long before we were pulling up in Cherry's drive. Her truck was missing so I figured she was already gone to the bar to get ready for opening. I planned on heading over later for a beer and wondered if Brook would come too, providing she was feeling better. I helped her off the bike and put Cherry's helmet back in the garage while Brook went into the house. I followed her in to find her standing in the living room. She looked appalled and I went to her immediately. "What's wrong?"

 

"I'm tired and it's driving me nuts," she admitted. "I can’t take much exercise... you saw what a short walk did to me."

 

"Hey," I replied softly. "You have to give yourself time. I know it's frustrating but you'll be ok."

 

Brook sighed and sat down on the couch. "I know you're right," she said softly. "But I need to move on with my life and this is a constant reminder of what happened... and what I lost." She shook her head. "I feel like it's my fault... If I'd done something different, or not gone out that night, maybe everything would be fine now."

 

I was dumbfounded that she could blame herself for all that. I knelt in front of her and took her hands, hoping my words wouldn't fail me. "Brook, Sweetheart, this was not your fault. You were in the wrong place at the wrong time, that's all. You are so full of life, despite everything that's happened to you. I think you're the most amazing person I've ever met in my entire life."

 

Brook just gazed at me for a long moment and I held my breath, waiting for her response and praying that I hadn't made things worse. Very slowly, her hand lifted and she cupped my cheek, her eyes boring into mine with intensity I'd never felt before that. "Thank you," she whispered, her thumb moving over my cheekbone. "Thank you."

 

Then she got up and went upstairs. I figured she needed some time alone.

 

I was right.

 

**

 

Chapter 4

 

It was almost three by the time I got worried enough to actually have to go and check on Brook. I wasn't sure which one was her room but only one door was fully closed so I guessed it was hers. Tapping lightly on the door, I pushed it open and stuck my head inside. The interior was dim but I had no trouble making out my friend where she lay on the bed, curled around a pillow and snoring softly. Moving silently across the room, I knelt at the side of the bed and just watched her sleep for a long moment. She was beautiful. Her eyelashes were pale but they were full, and just brushed her cheeks as her eyes danced under their lids. Her right cheek was pressed against the pillow and her fingers were loosely wrapped around it too. I wanted her. I wanted to take her in my arms and make love to her but this was one straight woman whose friendship I didn’t ever want to lose so, just as silently as I'd entered, I slipped back outside and downstairs.

 

I was sipping a cup of coffee and idly flicking through TV channels when Brook wandered into the room. "Hey," I smiled, glad when she smiled back and pilfered my cup.

 

She hummed softly, enjoying the brew, then handed the cup back to me. "Want another?" she asked as she went toward the kitchen. I followed her, making her jump when I said yes into her ear. "Jesus, Cam. You trying to give me a heart attack, huh?"

 

I grinned. "Nah."

 

Brook poured a cup for herself, then refreshed mine. "What are your plans for tonight?" she asked, tucking an errant strand of blonde hair behind her ear.

 

"Well," I replied. "I was gonna go to Cherry's for a few beers. If you feel up to it, I'd love you to come along."

 

I was really glad I'd asked when my friend's face lit up. "Great. How about we have dinner and then head over?" she suggested.

 

I nodded. "Sounds good to me. Want to get takeout of some sort?"

 

"Pizza?" Brook asked.

 

"My favourite," I replied. "They do the best combo pizzas around here."

 

"It's settled then."

 

After eating and cleaning up, Brook changed clothes and we rode back to my house where I changed into black jeans and a black silk shirt. My friend smiled at me when I wandered into the living room, closing the button on the cuff of my shirt. She got up and circled me. "You look incredibly sexy," she stated matter-of-factly. My eyebrows shot up and I blushed a little.

 

"Um... thanks." I looked at her, suddenly feeling kinda shy. "Really?"

 

"Really," Brook replied. "She's a lucky woman."

 

"Uh... who?" I asked, confused.

 

"The woman who finally wins your heart."

 

We stood there in the centre of my living room, looking at each other through uncertain and fearful eyes. A thousand unspoken words hiding among the few Brook had uttered. Looking back, had we been true to ourselves, we would have admitted that we had feelings for each other, but we weren't and we didn't.

 

We went to Cherry's instead.

 

**

 

The bar was beginning to fill up by the time we'd arrived and I quickly found Brook a seat at the bar. Cherry waved at us and motioned that she'd be over in a minute. I gave her a thumbs up and settled myself next to my blonde friend, who was already dancing in her seat. "Can you drink?" I asked, raising my voice to be heard over the music.

 

"Not really," Brook replied. "But one won't hurt. I'll stick with Coke for the rest of the night."

 

"Ok," I replied as Cherry leaned over the bar to kiss her cousin's cheek.

 

"Hey," she greeted. "Having fun?"

 

Brook looked at me and smiled before nodding at Cherry. "Yeah. It's been great. Camryn is a fantastic tour guide."

 

I puffed my chest out in mock pride and grinned. "I'm the best tour guide."

 

"You're the only tour guide," Cherry reminded us, taking the wind out of my sails.

 

I scowled and tweaked her nose. "Hey, don't be stealing my reputation!" I complained but stopped in disbelief when Brook leaned between us and whispered in my ear.

 

"Your reputation is perfectly intact, Honey."

 

The look on my face must have been one of stunned disbelief because Cherry pointed at me and started laughing. "Shit, Brook, what did you say to her?"

 

"I just told her not to worry about a thing," my blonde friend replied, smiling at me and offering a little wink.

 

Man, this woman could flirt. She was leaving me cold in her wake... or rather very, very, VERY hot. I swallowed and shook my head. "Cherry, gimme a beer... and one for my friend too."

 

My eyes met Brook's and I noticed the mirth in them as she chuckled and took the bottle her cousin offered to her. She raised it in a toast, then knocked back half the bottle, smacking her lips in obvious pleasure. "That's good," she commented. "Drink up."

 

I did and, three beers later, I was laughing at Brook's bawdy jokes. She had switched to Diet Coke and was now half sitting in my lap in order to make it easier for us to hear each other. "Brook, do ya wanna dance?" I asked, motioning toward the floor.

 

"I thought you'd never ask," my friend dramatically replied. She hopped down from her stool and grabbed my hand, pulling me to the dance floor and settling into an easy rhythm. She was a good dancer and I found my eyes following the motion of her leather-covered hips. Did I mention she was wearing leather pants? Well, she was and I was unable to keep my eyes of her. Then suddenly the song was slowing down and people were moving off the dance floor in deference to the couples that wanted to dance a slow set.

 

Brook smiled at me as I turned to leave, and caught my hand. "Don't go," she said. "Dance with me?"

 

I nodded, captivated by her, and moved closer. Her arms came up and around my neck as I gently grasped her waist and we swayed together in time to the music. Brook let her head fall onto my chest and I pulled her even closer, pressing our bodies together as I enclosed her in my arms. Somewhere in my head, a little voice was asking me what I was doing dancing like this with a straight woman. I told the voice to shut up and just enjoyed the feeling of my friend's warmth and closeness. And then Brook was looking up at me, gentle trust shining in her eyes. God, I wanted to kiss her. I wanted to kiss her so badly that I almost couldn't stop myself but the song ended and I released her, taking a step back and wiping the sweat from my forehead and upper lip. "Thanks. I enjoyed that," I mumbled, completely and utterly rattled. Then I went back to the bar to take a long swallow from my bottle of beer. Cheery was there and she looked at me with a strange expression on her face.

 

"Can I talk to you for a minute," she asked, motioning toward the room behind the bar.

 

"Um... sure." I looked to Brook who was getting back up on her stool. "I'll be right back." Then I followed Cherry.

 

My best friend was waiting for me, her hands perched on her hips. "What's going on, Cam?" she asked, getting straight to the point as usual.

 

"What do you mean?" I asked, stalling for time.

 

"You and Brook. You two were looking hot out there."

 

"Were we?" I asked, failing miserably at an innocent look.

 

"Camryn Wells, you can’t lie to me. You never could. Did you sleep with her?"

 

Shaking my head violently, I denied it. "Believe me, Cherry, I would never do anything to hurt Brook."

 

My friend nodded. "It's not Brook that I'm worried about," she replied softly. "I saw it, you know."

 

"Saw what?" I asked, knowing full well what she was going to say.

 

"The way you were looking at her. Tell me you haven’t fallen for her, Cam."

 

Cherry put a hand on my shoulder as I buried my face in my hands and flopped into a chair. "It's so stupid," I groaned. "How fucking clichéd can you get, huh? Having a crush on your straight friend? Damn."

 

My friend chuckled softly. "She's a great person. I can see where it's coming from."

 

I looked up at her then. "It's more than that, Cherry," I finally admitted. "I think I'm in love with her."

 

And then it was Cherry who was collapsing into the chair next to me. "Oh Cam," she whispered.

 

All I could do was nod.

 

**

 

Having composed myself and knocked back two shots of whiskey, I met Brook back at our seats. She was talking to a tall, striking redhead with a figure to die for... that paled into insignificance next to my blonde friend. Her face creased into a grin when she saw me and held out her hand, inviting me to stand next to her. Since I was as jealous as hell, I accepted and the redheaded woman graciously moved aside for me. "This is Tori," Brook explained. "She's a doctor. Tori, this is my friend, Camryn Wells."

 

I offered the woman my hand, along with a 'stay away' look. "Nice to meet you, Tori."

 

She smiled slightly as she accepted and shook my hand with a solid grip. "Nice to meet you, Camryn. Brook was just talking about you."

 

"Yeah?" I shot a questioning look at my blonde friend who cleared her throat and scratched her cheek a little.

 

"I... I guess I was," she replied.

 

Tori let the smile come this time. "I'll leave you two alone. Nice meeting you."

 

"Yeah, you too," I replied absently as I kept my eyes fixed on Brook's blushing face. Once Tori was out of earshot, I nudged my friend a little. "Spill."

 

"I... um... I told her that we were... well... I mean, she saw us dancing and thought that we were... you know..."

 

"Lovers?" I supplied, getting great enjoyment out of this.

 

"Um... Yeah... She was hitting on me and she asked me if we were a permanent thing or just..."

 

"I get it," I replied, a little sharper than I intended. "She wanted to know if she could get by me to get in your..." I managed to stop myself before I went too far and just picked up my bottle and took a drink.

 

Then a gentle hand was rubbing circles on my back. "What's wrong, Cam?" Brook asked, her face sad.

 

"Nothing," I replied. "I'm sorry. It's not your fault."

 

"Did you like her? I mean... did you... did I ruin... Damn." Brook looked impossibly cute as she tried to tactfully ask me if I wanted to have sex with Tori. "I'm so bad at this," she muttered.

 

"No," I replied. "I wasn't interested in her... but thanks."

 

"Oh." Brooke looked relieved but I put it down to my bailing her out. "Cam?"

 

"Mm?"

 

"Do you want to dance again?"

 

I grinned. "Sure."

 

**

 

"Cam? When did you know?"

 

"Huh?" I blinked heavy eyelids and stared at my friend, fuzzily thinking that I probably shouldn’t have had that last beer... or three. "Know what?"

 

Brook giggled and shook her head. "You're drunk."

 

"No, I'm not," I argued. "I'm just..."

 

"Drunk."

 

"Yeah... NO! Tired."

 

My friend waggled her fingers at me and laughed. "C'mon, Camryn, you drank ten beers. You're drunk."

 

Ten? Was it ten? "It wasn't ten."

 

"Yes, it was." Green eyes looked soberly up at me. "You had a beer for every coke I had... and I had ten cokes."

 

I snickered. "Bet you need to pee bad."

 

Brook grimaced and nodded tiredly as she leaned against me. "Take me home, Gorgeous." As we strolled back toward Cherry's house, I thought about the two days I'd spent with my new friend. Every time I looked at her, she seemed to be smiling in my direction. "You never answered my question."

 

"What question?" I asked in confusion.

 

Brook sighed. "I asked you... um... When did you realise you were a lesbian?"

 

"You did? Oh. Well, ok." I thought about my answer for a long moment. "I met someone, when I was in my senior year of high school, who changed my life." I smiled. "She was beautiful. I'd never seen anything as beautiful before."

 

Brook's grip tightened on my arm as we crossed the street and slowed our pace to a stroll. "Did you fall in love with her?"

 

Shaking my head, I chuckled softly. "No, I fell in lust and it scared the hell outta me. Every goddamned teenage hormone in my body wanted her with an intensity that... fried my brain, I guess." I suddenly felt the embarrassment and hurt of the moment as acutely as I'd felt it back then. "She used to smile at me and flirt with me but, when I finally got up the nerve to ask her out, she slapped me and told me that she wasn't a lesbian and would never be seen dead with one... especially me."

 

I heard a sharp intake of breath and looked at Brook. Her eyes were flashing anger and she stopped walking, jerking me to a stop. "What a goddamned bitch!" she seethed. "How could she do that to you?!"

 

I shrugged. "I wasn't the most popular girl back then. People didn’t really like me. But damn, was I obsessed with that girl." I shrugged again but, to my surprise, Brook pulled me close and hugged me.

 

"I'm sorry she hurt you," she whispered, pressing herself against me. The warmth was wonderful and I hugged her back but, forgetting myself for a moment, I slipped my hands under her jacket and caressed her back, rocking us a little. For a second, I felt Brook stiffen but she relaxed again just as quickly. Then we separated and continued on in comfortable silence.

 

The house was dark when we got back and I walked my friend to the door, smiling as she turned to look at me. "I really enjoyed tonight."

 

Brook grinned. "So did I. Thanks for dancing with me."

 

"You're welcome," I solemnly replied. "I don't often get a chance to dance with beautiful women."

 

My friend blushed. "I'm sure that's not the case. I mean... I'll bet you have no trouble finding women to dance with."

 

"No, I don't," I agreed. "Women are aplenty but beautiful ones are rare... especially ones who are beautiful on the inside too." I sighed softly. "I don't pretend to know what you went through, Brook, but to have a soul as beautiful as yours is to be blessed."

 

Brook said nothing for a long moment. She merely let her tears fall, then took me by the hand. "C'mon, let's go to bed."

 

Blinking sleepily, I nodded and followed her into the house.

 

**

 

Oh boy.

 

Lying on Brook's bed, I waited for her to change. I'd already slipped out of my jeans and was sprawled on the soft surface, just relaxing. "You want a night cap?" my friend asked as she padded out of the bathroom. She was dressed in a long nightshirt and looked impossibly cute.

 

"No, thanks," I yawned, running my fingers through my hair.

 

My friend picked a spot on the bed and took it, sitting cross-legged. "Um... Cam... Can I talk to you about something?"

 

Suddenly more awake, I nodded and sat up. "Of course you can. Anything."

 

Brook wiggled her way closer to me and leaned against me, getting comfortable. "A year and a half ago," she began softly. "I met a guy in a bar. He seemed, you know, a nice guy... decent. He offered to buy me a drink but I very politely said no. You see, Camryn, being gay in my family is one of the worst possible sins imaginable and I had to hide everything I did." She let her eyes meet mine and I smiled just a little, recognising the trust she was placing in me. "Anyway, this guy insisted that I have a drink so, thinking he was ok, I accepted." I suddenly felt a faint tremor run through her and realised she was shivering. Without a word, I lifted my arm and tucked her warmly against me. "I actually liked him and we sat chatting at the bar for a couple of hours but, the drunker he got, the more he tried to touch me. It got to the point that I was feeling uncomfortable so I said goodnight and made my way home."

 

She looked up at me and I nodded. "Go on."

 

Brook sighed and shifted a little, getting more comfortable. "I got on with my life but, every now and again, I had the strangest feeling... like someone was watching me but I could never catch a glimpse of them." She reached up and rubbed her nose, obviously thinking back. "I had several assignments due and I was kinda distracted by the woman I was seeing but I had this weird prickling feeling a lot. Finally, I realised that I wasn't just paranoid, which was confirmed a short time later when someone sent me a dozen red roses for my birthday. The card was signed 'From a secret admirer' and for some reason, it really freaked me out. It freaked Diana out too. She accused me of seeing someone else and dumped me."

 

Brook paused here and I sensed that she was preparing herself for whatever she had to tell me. "It's ok," I murmured, running my fingers gently through her hair. "You're safe here."

 

"I was coming home from the library, just walking along the street when I heard something... a noise... but, before I could even inhale to yell my lungs out, a guy grabbed me and clamped his hand over my mouth as he dragged me into an alley."

 

She was shaking now and I tightened my arm around her. "Easy," I whispered, feeling completely sober now. "It's alright."

 

She sniffed, large tears rolling down her face. "I remember the smell of garbage and the darkness. I think the light was broken. He slammed my head against the wall hard enough to completely daze me and the next thing I remember is the pain as he..." She stopped, unable to go on and I pulled her into my arms, holding her as I rode out the fury that crashed over me. I heard a small whimper and realised that it had actually come from my own throat. Brook clung to me desperately, her body shaking with shock as she relieved the moment. All I could do was to hold her and whisper to her that everything would be ok. After a long time, she pulled back a little and shook her head. "I'm sorry."

 

"Don't apologise, Sweetheart," I replied, brushing my lips against her forehead.

 

"A few weeks later, I realised I was pregnant. God, I battled with myself... with my conscience. I could have had an abortion but I didn’t want to. I wanted to keep my baby, despite who it's father was."

 

I nodded. "I can understand that."

 

"It hurt so much," Brook went on. "But I was determined to get through it. I was able to identify my attacker and he was picked up and charged very soon after. There was enough physical evidence to convict him and John Boon was given a ten-year sentence. Apparently, he had a history of violence." Her voice was steadier now and she'd calmed enough to go on. "I went back to school and I began to live again but Boon had other ideas for me. I was coming home from a self-defence class I'd taken up when a car came speeding toward me. The headlights were blaring and, as I lifted my arm to shield my eyes, I heard two shots. The first missed me but the second entered my abdomen." She paused again, her face calm but filled with a terrible sadness. "It killed the baby outright and left me with no chance of ever having another."

 

I had no idea what to say. "I'm so, so sorry, Sweetheart," I whispered after a long moment of silence. "It must have been so hard for you."

 

"When I was released from the hospital, I decided I needed to get away... to have some time to myself to relax and think."

 

"Understandable," I agreed.

 

"I've had fun with you, the past two days. It's been the best couple of days I've had in a long time." A small smile was stretching Brook's lips now and I was very glad to see it... so glad, in fact, that I had to examine it closer. I leaned in and placed the lightest of kisses on her lips.

 

"Good. I'm glad I could make you happy."

 

My friend sighed softly but her smile widened. "I'm tired, Cam. Can we finish this in the morning?"

 

"Of course we can," I replied. "C'mon, get comfortable." I lay down and smiled as Brook lay next to me and rested her head on my shoulder. Our bodies loosely tangled together, we fell into quiet sleep.

 

**

 

Chapter 5

 

I was incredibly angry. My body was fairly thrumming with it and I gritted my teeth in frustration. I want so bad to hurt the bastards who'd done such terrible things to Brook. I'd woken early and having time, had spent it thinking about the story Brook had told me the night before. The emotional toll it had taken on her had been huge and she'd barely moved at all through the night, exhausted as she was.

 

The sun was barely up but, when I looked down, I could clearly make out my friend's features. The woman was beautiful and I felt my heart swell with love for her. I knew I was in trouble... far too deep to be able to extricate myself. I was already in love, which in itself posed a problem. I didn't think that Brook felt the same way and I had no intention of making a move on her but, holding her in my arms, I let myself pretend for a moment that she was mine.

 

Lost in thought as I was, I jumped when a gentle hand rubbed my stomach. "Honey, what's wrong?"

 

"Uh... nothing. I'm ok."

 

"Are you sorry I told you that stuff last night?"

 

The vulnerability in my friend's eyes staggered me and I shook my head hard. "No, God no. It was a honour that you trusted me."

 

She smiled then and rested her head again. "I'm glad I told you, Cam, because now you know what you're getting into."

 

"Getting into?" I repeated. "I don't understand."

 

"This friendship." Brook lifted her head again. "There are going to be some hard moments, Cam."

 

I nodded, undaunted. "I promise I'll always be here for you."

 

My friend's grip tightened and we allowed ourselves to doze off again.

 

**

 

I was making coffee when Cherry wandered into the kitchen but she stopped dead when she saw me. "Uh... Hi."

 

"Hi," I replied. "I was kinda drunk last night so Brook insisted I stay instead of staggering home."

 

"I see," Cherry replied, her eyes full of mirth. "Well, feel free to crash whenever you like, Cam."

 

"Thanks," I replied, knowing full well what she was thinking. "But I don't think it's gonna happen again... staying here I mean," I quickly added.

 

"I get it, Stud," my friend teased.

 

"Nothing happened, Cherry. I swear."

 

"Mm." She bent to grab a bowl from a bottom shelf just as Brook wandered sleepily into the kitchen.

 

"Morning, Gorgeous." She wrapped herself in my embrace and then kissed me on the cheek. "Please tell me there's coffee. I need an energy boost after what we did last night."

 

I heard a snort of laughter and sighed as Cherry straightened and shook her head. "Nothing happened, huh?"

 

Brook extracted herself from me and frowned at her cousin. "Fuck off, Cherry."

 

My bartender friend was coiled over with laughter. "Busted."

 

Brook was not impressed. "Cherry, this isn’t funny. You're taking this totally out of context."

 

By the time Cherry's laughter had wound down, she was sitting at the table sipping her coffee. "It would be funnier if I thought you were a lesbian," she said, glancing at her cousin.

 

"I am," my blonde friend replied nonchalantly.

 

I ducked my head to hide my grin as Cherry's mouth dropped open. "But... You can't be..." she protested.

 

"Oh yeah? Why is that?" Green eyes peered at her.

 

"Because... because... you're Brook. Normal, straight, good little Brook."

 

"I see." The eyes cooled by ten degrees. "If I were straight would I do this?" And with that, she stood and came to me, letting our eyes meet. My heart began to beat faster and my eyes widened just a little as she gently grasped my chin and kissed me with a quiet, probing passion.

 

For a moment, I kissed her back, but then I pulled away and stood up. "I have to go," I said, hastily pulling my jacket on.

 

Brook looked surprised and sorry at the same time. "Cam, wait," she said, reaching out to catch my hand but I avoided her and moved around her toward the door. "I'll see you later."

 

"Alright," she finally replied quietly. "See you later."

 

As I left the kitchen, I heard Cherry's voice low and hard. "Why the fuck did you do that to her?"

 

**

 

By the time I got home from my run, I was exhausted and definitely not prepared for seeing Brook waiting for me. I slowed to a walk and sighed, pushing my hair back from my eyes and wiping my forehead on my sleeve. "Hi."

 

"Hi," she replied. She looked upset and I wondered how badly Cherry had chewed her ass. "Cam, I'm sorry," she whispered, placing a hand on my forearm. "I didn’t... I wasn't thinking... I just..." She sighed and then met my eyes squarely. "I'm very attracted to you, Camryn, and I let my libido get in the way of my common sense."

 

I nodded, not trusting myself to speak.

 

She looked down for a moment and then met my eyes again. "I'm just here to say goodbye. I... I'm going home."

 

"But you've only been here three days," I blurted.

 

She smiled then. "I know but it's time I started building my life again." She paused and studied me for a moment as if waiting for something. Then she nodded and sighed. "Well, Seeya."

 

"Seeya," I replied. We looked at each other for a moment more, then Brook turned and walked away.

 

I knew she was gone when I called to see Cherry that evening in the bar. My friend looked troubled and she leaned on the bar when she saw me and beckoned me over to her. "You ok?"

 

I nodded, even thought I felt pretty much like crap. "Sure."

 

"She's gone."

 

"I know." It seemed oddly surreal, as if I were caught in some kind of vortex where everything sucked and there was no way out. My heart hurt from banging at the exit door. "I spoke to her."

 

"What did she say?" Cherry asked as she picked up a glass and began to automatically dry it. It was bartender-speak for 'tell me your problems'.

 

"She just said that she was going home and then she said goodbye." Somehow I didn’t quite remember it that way but it was close enough.

 

"I see." My friend smiled. "She's in love with you, Cam. She didn't say it but I saw it as plainly in her eyes as I can see it in yours right now."

 

"But why... She didn't... say anything to me." I was so surprised, I could barely untie my tongue enough to speak.

 

"Because," Cherry reluctantly replied. "She's seeing someone back home... a guy her parents want her to marry. She didn’t want to hurt you. She certainly didn’t mean to when she kissed you."

 

"Oh God," I groaned. "This is my fault. I've fucked up."

 

"No," my bartender friend replied. "It's only fucked up when you don't try to fix it." She held out a piece of paper to me. "Here's her home address. I think a personal visit might help."

 

I stared at the slip for a minute but all hesitation melted away when I thought of what I loved about Brook. I took the paper and nodded before running out of the bar and hopping onto my motorbike.

 

I rode like a bat out of hell without stopping until I arrived here and so, now, here I am, waiting for a glimpse of the woman I love.

 

**

 

Chapter 6

 

God, it hurt... walking away from her like that... but I knew I had to, feeling what I felt for her. That day, I didn’t think I could ever be with her and, knowing what my family could do, I was afraid she'd get hurt.

 

You know, I don't even know which moment it was or what she said or did to make me fall in love with her. I just know that leaving Oak Falls and getting on that plane were the two hardest things I've ever done. The way she'd pulled away when I kissed her and knowing that she didn't love me were the two things that pushed me back home to face my demons.

 

I needed to start again.

 

The first thing I did was to go see Robert, the guy my parents were trying to pull into the family, by way of marriage to me. He was a very successful lawyer with his own firm. He was also ten years older than me.

 

I told Robert that, while he was a sweet guy and everything, I didn't love him and didn't want to marry him. He didn't seem overly upset and I ended up, somehow, telling him about my time in Oak Falls. He just listened and when I'd finished my story, he just smiled knowingly and told me that some things happen for a reason and had a way of working themselves out. And somehow, I believed him.

 

My second day home, I actually spoke to my mother. She was hesitant at first, as if she didn't really know what to say to me but after a while, she chilled and became my mom again, rather than the woman whose daughter had been raped and shot. We talked and cried and talked some more until I finally fell asleep, emotionally drained, but safe in her arms.

 

The next thing on my list was a hospital visit. Though I was still tender and healing, they were pleased with my progress and reduced my medication. I spoke with a therapist and finally began to feel that I was taking control of my life again rather than watching it go by me in a haze of pain and grief.

 

But there was still Camryn and even though I confided my sexual orientation to the therapist, I still felt smothered by my alternate persona. I wanted her to come to me and tell me that I was wrong... that she loved me as much as I loved her... but then I realised that I'd never really given her reason too. I'd kept her at arms length and I really had no one to blame but myself.

 

That evening, a friend of mine invited me to a basketball game. It was the local women's team playing and I agreed, needing a semblance of normalcy in my life. She picked me up at seven and drove us to the arena where we bought hot dogs and drinks and settled into our seats. I felt somewhat excited and vowed to put everything out of my mind and just enjoy the game.

 

The quarters went by quickly and, as our team scored a basket, I jumped up and yelled my appreciation with all the other fans. I grinned at my friend then and sat down but, when I felt a presence behind me, I stiffened instinctually. Then I smelled it... a familiar perfume that brought memories rushing back to me.

 

"Got some time after the game to talk to an idiot?"

 

Very slowly, I turned in my seat, a huge smile spreading across my face when I looked into the blue eyes that had captured my heart and soul. "I could ask you the same question," I replied, tears stinging my own. "I'm sorry, Cam."

 

"Shhh," she gently replied as she took my hand and pulled me into standing. All around us, fans screamed as another basket was scored but I heard nothing but the pounding of my heart and Cam's voice in my ear. "A very important part of me left with you, Brook," she said, her tone caressing me and arousing me beyond anything I'd ever before felt. "My heart."

 

"I love you," I replied. "God, Cam, I love you so much."

 

And there, in the middle of the crowd, we kissed passionately, not caring about who would see us.

 

And I felt as if I'd finally come home.

 

**

 

Last night was incredible. I can’t believe I'm actually writing this stuff down but I need to get it down somewhere. Cam's asleep right now but I can see her in our bed. The sheets are pooled around her waist and the sun is bathing her face and breasts in golden light. God, she's beautiful.

 

Last night was incredible. I know I already said that but it warranted a repeat. When we got home from the stadium after picking my friend up off the floor, I introduced her to my mother and father. They actually took it better than I thought and only asked us to leave so they could think rather than throwing us out and telling us to never come back so I'm happy about that.

 

Cam and I checked into a motel and after a quick dinner, we made love for the first of many times. God, I can still taste her. Her sleekly muscled body arched under my touch as she lost control, making me feel powerful but so trusted that I almost cried.

 

And then she touched me. My breasts are tender from her loving of them but I wouldn't change a single moment of what happened between us. She was so gentle with me, yet she filled me completely and left me completely drained and wanting more.

 

We exchanged words of love and promises of devotion and, when she looked into my eyes and told me that she was lost without me, I think I fell in love with her all over again.

 

And, you know what? I think I'll fall in love with her a little more every day.

 

She's awake now and smiling mischievously at me.

 

There's plenty of time for writing later. Right now, I have something better to do.

 

Heh.

 

 

 

The End.