• Christmas time 2005
• Randy has an epiphany
• John is pulling out the stops at the homestead
• Long note- I tried to come up with the most vanilla, middle of the road, names for John’s brothers, unaware that I had chosen 3 or the 4 real life names by accident.  That being said, I’m keeping them since this is fiction and I have zero knowledge of the real Cena brothers or their significant others.
• Since I forgot to say it last time I used this awesome graphic, thanks Nan!  It’s fantastic!

Feedback: always appreciated!

Carrie closed her eyes as the plane descended into Boston, trying to shake John’s warning to her over the phone. 

“Just so you know, Baby.  I am stepping up to the plate at my folks house and you won’t know what the fuck hit ya,” John laughed. 

“Um, is that a good idea,” she said quickly, not sure what he was really talking about. 

“Oh hell yeah.  It’s a great idea.  I get time alone with you, without big bad boyfriend or Hunter glaring at me.  I am gonna make your toes curl,” he said.  The last of his words ended with a wicked chuckle. 

“What,” she gasped. 

“Oh yeah, Baby.  I am gonna show you what you’re missing and by the time I’m through with you, you won’t know what hit ya,” John stated again.  His enjoyment at her distress was pathetically easy to hear.   

Oh dear God, what the fuck am I supposed to do?  Closing her eyes, a sigh escaped with the phone line still open. 

“Carrie?  You still there?  You okay,” John asked in to the silence. 

“Yeah, I’m here,” she whispered, knowing a headache was on the horizon. 

“I was just playing with ya, Baby.  You know that,” John said, trying to reassure her.  “I’ll be on my best behavior, scouts honor.” 

“Okay, and if you’re not, I will kick your ass. I swear I will,” she warned him, trying to hide her smile. 

“I can hardly wait to see you try, Tater,” John said with a laugh and hung up quickly so he could get the last word in.  She blinked, closing the phone, heading upstairs to take a bath in an effort to ease the sudden tension. 

Carrie glanced one last time at her portable, memorizing the face in case she had to hunt for him in the crowd.  She was okay with John having his brother meet her since he was still sicker than hell.  He’d been sick since he arrived at his folks last night.  He told her in graphic detail his exact problem and she didn’t blame him one bit about not wanting to risk the hour drive there and back to pick her up with a messed up stomach.  She asked him last night and again this morning before she boarded if he wanted her to cancel.  He’d told her that both of them would have to answer to his mother if they did and he wasn’t gonna be indisposed for very long anyway.  He just had to get all the bad stuff out.  He said Steve was fine with coming to get her.  She wasn’t too sure about that, thinking the youngest Cena probably didn’t have much choice. 

She grabbed her carry on and small bag, slinging her winter coat over her arm and following the rest of first class out the door.  She ignored the insincere attendant, too worried about missing Steve and being stranded in Boston.  She heard her name before she even cleared the gate.  She looked up to see a younger, smaller version on John grinning and waving at her.  She smiled back with a nod, letting Steve know she’d seen him.  She couldn’t move any quicker because of the slow progression in front of her.  She looked over at John’s baby brother and without meaning to, rolled her eyes in exasperation at the slow pace.  She heard his laugh through the noise of the rest of the crowd.  He sounded eerily like his brother.  Oh boy, these few days were going to be interesting she reminded herself just before clearing the crowd.  Steve took her coat from her just before he wrapped his arms around her in a hug.   

“Glad you could make it,” Steve said, stepping away.  She was prettier than his brother’s picture’s, that for sure.  “Here, let me take that stuff.  Johnny will kill me if I make you carry anything,” Steve said seriously.  Carrie nodded, handing over her bags without another word, her mind too full to say anything coherent.  “You okay if we go straight to the car,” Steve asked, his northeastern roots showing in his pronunciation.  She grinned in silence and nodded, falling in step.  It had been a long time since she’d been in Boston for anything other than an overnight stop.  She lost herself in the memories of her time at school and all the adjustments and changes that had brought. 

The sound of cars, or kahs as the locals said it, brought her attention to the present and the young man she was following. 

“Carrie, you okay,” Steve finally asked.  He was astounded at her quiet.  All of John’s previous girlfriends talked nonstop, from the time they got up until the time they went to bed.  

“What,” Carrie asked vaguely, replaying Steve’s question.  “Yeah, I’m fine.  It’s just been a while since I rode in a kah,” she teased. 

“Shit, don’t you know how to talk,” Steve teased her back.  “Ain’t you heard your native language spoken before?” 

”Is that what you’re doing?  Is that what you call it,” Carrie teased him right back, at ease with him quickly.  

“Shit,” he chuckled, putting her bags in the trunk of his brother’s navigator. Carrie frowned, thinking John had said something about having one of these monsters. 

“Is this John’s,” she asked sliding into the passenger seat. 

“Oh yeah, that was part of the deal.  I get to drive his baby to pick up his baby,” Steve grinned.  Carrie blinked, seeing John’s grin and dimples on Steve.  Oh my, get a fucking grip on yourself.  It’s not like you didn’t know he had brothers.  Yeah, but damn.  Are they all cut from exactly the same cloth?  It’s just that she wasn’t used to being around families, since hers was so small and other than Wease she had no living blood relatives that she’d claim.  There were three more bothers to meet, plus a ton of other relatives that lived close and would no doubt be dropping in.  John said it was pretty much expected at Christmas time.   

*** 

"Carrie," John whispered to the lady sitting between his legs on his parents couch.  She turned her head to him with a smile at his word.  He didn't want to waste the opportunity so he slid his fingers into her hair and brought her lips to his.  "I love you, sweetheart" he mumbled against her lips just before he pressed his lips against her surprised soft ones.  He felt her breath catch before she relaxed at his touch.  He growled low in his chest at the feel of her between his legs, making her shiver in response.   

She lost herself in the feel of his body next to her and the sweet torture of his tongue, tormenting her, drawing her tongue with him back into his own mouth.  He could feel her relax in his arms as he teased her.  She felt dizzy and knew she had to stop. 

"John," she breathed as she pulled away.  A lazy grin was his only response.  "I can't breathe honey.  Damn allergies," she reminded him.  He blinked into her hungry and confused eyes.   

"Sorry, Baby.  I forgot," he admitted.  He felt like a shit for forgetting, but he wasn't abandoning his plan altogether.  He slid his hand down her back and into the back of her sweet looking yoga pants.  She stiffened at the feel of his rough hot hand sliding down her ass. 

"John?  What about your parents," she reminded him.  He smirked back at her and slid his hand even further down the back of her pants. 

"They went to bed, Baby," he whispered in her ear.  He nibbled on her neck since he was in reach and knew it was one of her hot buttons.  She couldn't stifle the shudder and accompanying moan at his touch.  Her eyes closed as she tried to swallow past her own quickly building heat.  He was a devil, that all's there was to it. 

"How do you know," she asked when he finally pulled away from her neck, allowing her to think again. 

"They came in when we were busy and quickly left," he grinned as he slipped his fingers through her curls. 

Oh shit.  Now they think she's sleeping with their son too?  It was bad enough she might be having his baby, but worse that she was living with another man who also might be the father.  But then, add in the fact that she was sleeping with the other man, plus now they must think she was sleeping with their son, too.  At the same time?   

"John, we can't," she protested. 

"Yeah, we can," he said as his fingers closed on her sensitized ass.  She gasped at his action, causing his grin to widen.  He'd been slowly stroking her cheek as they talked and knew exactly what that did to her, too.  He leaned forward and nibbled on her exposed neck again with a growl.  She tried to get up and away from him and his dangerous lips but he held her in his lap.   

"J-John, we can't," she tried again as she attempted to lift herself away.  He heard her tone and realized that he was pushing her past her limit.  As soon as the thought coalesced, he pulled his hand and lips away from her, letting her stand up.  She quickly jumped up from the couch and took several steps away from him, keeping her back to him.  She was on the edge of her tenuous control and knew she needed to stay away.  He was too tempting, it would be too easy and she knew it.   

John watched her step several paces away from him and frowned at her actions.  He chastised himself and his damn impatience for pushing her.  He knew better, and yet he still almost forced her.  Dumb fuck, he thought.  He rubbed his hand over his short hair and exhaled loudly to get his brain time to start working again. 

"Carrie, I'm sorry honey.  I didn't mean to..." his voice trailed off as he saw her shake her head in denial. 

"John, it's not just you.  It's everything," she said as she turned around and looked at him on the couch. Her gaze held his for a moment and he felt his pulse spike as his eyes met hers.  Her eyes had gone dark and hot, causing him to try to take another deep controlling breath.  Carrie watched him gain control of himself and settle his expression into questioning; questioning of her and her words. 

She shook her head and raked her hair, trying to find the right words to explain. 

"Sjit, this isn't gonna make any damn sense to you," she cautioned.  He nodded, indicating he wanted to try and that she should continue.  She waved her hands in the air, indicating everything around her.  "This place, John.  Your family.  Your home.  It’s like out of a Rockwell painting or something.  It's just so unreal."  Her heart pounded as she thought about how he must have grown up, surrounded by love and attention, never hearing the kind of shit that was commonplace in her childhood.  Her whole being ached for the normalcy that the Cena family had, the closeness they enjoyed.  It was so diametrically opposite from anything she had known and her longing for it scared her.  He frowned at her words, trying to make sense of her obvious distress.  He didn't think it was the kissing and his groping that had set her off.  She'd been retreating from him only hours after she’d arrived. 

***

It started when I played with it
It turned into a habit
And after that once you've been bit
You can't seem to get rid of it

It's on my mind most of the time
That's when you find we all go blind
Then it will start to get in our hearts
It's gone too far, that's who we are

It's a monster
We all have within us
It's a monster
It's a monster
Turns us into sinners
It's a monster
            Extreme - It

John closed his younger brother Matt’s bedroom door quietly.  Carrie looked up from her laptop at his entrance, a smile lighting her face.  John’s heart pounded, seeing her entrenched on the bed, looking comfortable in his family’s home.  It was something he’d been dreaming about for months. 

“John,” was all she asked as he stepped over to her.  He smiled, settling on the edge of the bed and reaching for her closest hand. 

“I just wanted to see how you were feeling, Baby.  I know you’re tired.  I know my family gets loud,” he said with a slight shrug.  It was true, but it wasn’t the only reason.   

She released his hand, reaching for his cheek.  Caressing his cheek in silence at his concern, she watched his eyes slide close.  Feeling his raspy skin under her palm sent electricity through her.  Not what she wanted at all.  She wasn’t here for that.  She was here for their babies and for his family.  She pulled her hand back quickly, not wanting to get too close to that line with him. 

John opened his eyes as her touch retreated.  He’d been enjoying the brief contact, something he craved from her still.  Hell, he wanted way more than that even now.  Even tonight in his brother’s room. 

“You okay if I stay up here with you for a while,” John asked.  He hoped like hell she didn’t ask him to leave.  He wanted to spend some of his holiday with just her.  He loved his family, never getting enough time with them, but he knew that his brothers were overwhelming her.  One on one they were okay, but put all the Cena boys in a room together?  It was asking for trouble.  The latest tussle that he’d broken up prompted him to seek her out.  He always found a kind of peace with her, in spite of his raging hormones and racing heart.  He’d long given up trying to make sense of how she affected him. 

Carrie closed her laptop, setting it on the bedside table, seeing that John obviously had something on his mind.  She scooted over to the edge of the bed, untucking her feet as she did so.  John watched her fluid movements in amazement, knowing if he tried to attempt the same movements, he’d end up toppled over with his ass and feet in the air. 

“You’re always welcome, John.  But won’t your family,” was all she got out before he interrupted her. 

“My family is cool with me leaving.  Shit, Sean teased me that I was spending time with them instead of you an hour ago,” John said quickly.  Carrie had excused herself a little over an hour age pleading the strong smells from the leftovers that the Cena clan was devouring as they tried to play a game of Texas Hold ’Em without bloodshed.  That was only part of it, and John knew it.  He wasn’t pissed about her need to retreat, he expected it.  If he was in her shoes, he wasn’t sure that he would’ve lasted through the Trivia Pursuit game, but she did.  In fact, she helped him kick some serious ass.  Something that he wasn’t about to let his brothers forget any time in the next decade.  They’d decided on that game as opposed to many others in the house since someone raised an objection to everything else.  He had a feeling if they ever played it again, it would be without his baby. 

Danny glanced at the card, winked at his wife before saying a word to his oldest brother.  Carrie had left her seat for a quick dash into the kitchen to get something else to drink.  Danny smirked, knowing his brother had no fucking clue about this one, unlike most of the sports questions. 

“Okay, this is definitely not a baseball question,” Danny started.  John frowned, but nodded.  He was ready.  So far they’d manage to answer most questions, even the golf ones. 

“About fucking time,” Matt said as he took a lazy swig of his beer.  He was used to winning this game, not Johnny.  But the addition of little miss curly brainiac had definitely tipped the scales. 

“I dunno, Johnny.  Looks like I’ll be getting my new car after all,” Danny teased.  John had recklessly stated that if his brother beat him at Trivial Pursuit tonight, he’d give him his Escalade. 

“Just ask me the damn question,” John said loudly.  No way were they gonna loose tonight, no way.  He thought he read and remembered a bunch of useless shit, but in comparison to his baby, he was a compete moron.   

“You sure?  You don’t wanna wait for your teammate,” Danny teased.  He received an elbow in his ribs for his troubles. 

“Just ask us,” Steve chimed in.  He was on John’s team because he didn’t have a partner and Carrie invited him to join in, before any of the brothers could tell her that Steve wasn’t so good at the game. 

“Okay, but don’t get pissed when you loose,” Danny said, clearly enjoying taunting his brothers.  With a great show, Danny picked the card back up.  His eyes glanced back at the card to verify the question before he said a word.  John rolled his eyes.  He knew exactly what his brother was doing, drawing out the agony of his perceived victory.  Whatever.   

“Who was the winner of the NHL’s scoring title for the 1979-1980 season,” Danny asked.  John smiled, that was too easy.  Gretzky.  Had to be.  He was playing by then, therefore he had to be the winner.  John opened his mouth to say as much but he was cut off by a voice walking back to him. 

“Cena, if you so much as open that mouth of yours, I will kick your ass,” Carrie warned, walking back to the table with a tall glass of water.  Danny’s eyebrows climbed in disbelief.  Even Matt was speechless at the threat from the small woman.  Johnny didn’t let anyone get away with threatening to kick his ass, ever. 

“Ah, Baby.  I know this one.  I do,” John said, oblivious to the disbelief across the coffee table from him.  He was intent on the tiny woman striding back from the kitchen with her eyes flashing instead. 

“No, you don’t.  You do not know this one,” Carrie continued.  She resumed her seat on the couch between John’s legs before he opened his mouth, intent on answering Danny’s question anyway.  Carrie turned back to him and put her small hand on his lips, effectively silencing him.  John grinned at her and her tiny hand.  Matt and Danny were speechless at seeing their loquacious sibling silenced so effectively.  John didn’t bother thinking, he licked her fingers, causing her to gasp in surprise.  “Cheating.  No fair,” she giggled, taking her hand away. 

“Only with you, Baby.  Whatever it takes, for however long it takes, always,” John said quietly.  The rest in the family room were suddenly silent, hearing their brother’s obvious declaration and intent.  Carrie flicked her eyes up to John’s, seeing the truth behind his words.  She stared for several long seconds, suddenly unsure of herself.  Steve coughed beside John, breaking the silence. 

“We gonna finish this game or what,” Steve asked.   

“Yeah, keep your pants on,” John said quickly.  Matt snorted loudly. 

“I don’t think it’s his pants we’re worried about,” Matt said with a wicked grin. 

“Matt!”  His wife Megan slapped him on the back of the head at his crude sentiment, even if she did agree with him.  No need to scare the poor woman off. 

“His pants, and other things,” Carrie wiggled her brows suggestively.  “Are staying put, but thanks for your concern.”  Teasing the Cena boys was getting to be one of her favorite past times in the last few days. 

“Oh really,” John leered at her before he chuckled.  She returned his look and winked at him before turning back to the rest of the clan. 

“So what was the question,” Carrie asked, switching back to the game.  Matt blew his breath out in frustration.  He was gonna dog his brother about the ass kicking remark, but maybe not now.  Danny grinned, meeting his younger brother’s eyes.  He knew exactly what he wanted to continue talking about and it had nothing to do with the damn game.  Danny repeated the question quietly, hoping like hell Teeny Tiny didn’t know this one.  Carrie turned back to the man whose lap she was sitting in. 

“I bet you were gonna say Gretzky again, weren’t you,” she asked John.  He nodded. 

“Gotta be, Baby,” he said.  Carrie shook her head at him.  For every hockey question he answered it the same, so far.  And that had proved to be wrong just about every time.  Carrie shook her head at his surety of the answer.  She switched her gaze to Steve, past John’s shoulder. 

“What’s your opinion, Steve,” Carrie asked the youngest Cena brother.  She recognized that he had the tendency to blend in, not too tough to do when surrounded by four older, louder brothers.  Steve managed not to blush at her direct gaze, clearly asking for input – something that was rare for him. 

“Um, can’t be Gretz, since Toad is always wrong about this shit,” Steve said, dodging a feint from his brother. 

John pulled his brain back to the present and the woman on the bed next to him.  The last few days had been special.  He managed more alone time with her than he’d had in months.  Plus he didn’t have to worry about being ‘caught’ or interrupted.  Seeing her relaxed and happy with his family brought peace to him, strengthening his resolve.  He picked up her hand, letting his fingers caress the back of her hand slowly.  Carrie’s eyes questioned his actions, but she didn’t pull away or resist.   

“Carrie, thank you for what you did for Steve tonight,” John started.  Carrie blinked in surprise.  He forged on.  “He doesn’t get much of a chance to speak up around us and you made sure he could.  Thanks, sweetheart,” John finished, pulling her hand to his chest.  He leaned over, brushing his lips over hers, not wanting to pressure her too much.  Carrie brought her other hand to his chest automatically, sending his control dangerously close to the edge.

“I miss you touching me,” John said, his voice suddenly rough.  With a winsome smile, Carrie traced her name on his chest slowly, glancing up as she did so to meet his eyes. 

“John,” was all she got out before he claimed her lips in a demanding kiss.  There was nothing tentative from him this time - only heat and passion, promising more if she was willing.  His large hand threaded through her curls, ensuring no easy escape for her.

God, this is what he wanted, needed and shamelessly craved.  Her touch.  Her hands on him, anywhere.  He was surrounded by people all the time, but he was isolated.  The touch of fans that were complete strangers left him feeling empty and alone.  As her fingers curled into his shirt, gripping it in her hands, all other thoughts receded.  He was all about the here and now and who was on his lap and in his arms. 

*** 

“Fuck it," he panted, sliding his sweats down.  She blinked at his actions, edging away from him.

"John, I don't think...” was all she said before he interrupted her. 

"I know.  Shit, I know!  I'm not asking you, I know you’ll say no.  I just gotta do this," John said, sliding his hand on his hard cock.  "My fuckin' balls are killing me.  They always get blue around you, Baby.  But tonight?  I just..."  He left off speaking, preferring to concentrate instead on the woman sitting beside him. 

Carrie stared first at his face then let her eyes drift down to his hand slowly stroking himself.  God, she hadn't seen him naked in months and the view was just as good as she remembered.  John wasn't embarrassed by his actions, not with her.  They were open with just about everything, particularly sex.  He leaned back on the bed, giving himself more room.  What he really wanted was to touch her.

"Baby, I miss you," he said, his hand never slowing.  Carrie saw the depth of his feelings echoed in his eyes.  It didn't matter that she constantly told him no, he still loved her.  And if his actions were anything to go by, he still wanted to have sex with her, even though her abs had disappeared and her body was starting to show the definite tell tale signs of her pregnancy.

"I'm right here, John," Carrie whispered.  John swallowed the words that almost slipped out.  Words that she didn't want to hear.  He watched her eyes, watched her gaze follow his actions.  Just watching her watch him was fucking sexy as all hell to him, he couldn't help it.

"Kiss me, Baby," was all he asked after several moments of silence.  Carrie's face showed her surprise at his request, but decided she could risk that.  It was such a small request.  She leaned over, resting her hand on his chest for balance.  He stifled the shock he felt at her simple touch. Not now, not yet.

She tried for a simple friendly kiss, but John brought his free hand up, wrapping his fingers in her hair again, pulling her back to his mouth for a more thorough inspection.  His other hand continued its rhythmic stroking.  He groaned, sliding his tongue between her lips.  She initially tried to pull away, even though he was stronger.  Realizing her efforts were futile, she gave herself up to enjoying the sensations of his sinful mouth on hers.

"Let me see you," John mumbled, when Carrie was finally able to lift her lips from his.  She grimaced at his request, thinking that she was anything but sexy right now, with her body starting to show its growing burden. 

"I don't think," was all she got out before he interrupted her again. 

"I just want to see all of you," he said, slowing his strokes, watching her eyes follow his rhythmic left hand.   

"I don't see why, John.  I'm not gonna just sit here so you can stare at me," she said, licking her lips as her eyes stayed glued on his hand. 

"Carrie, do me a favor and change your clothes," John said in desperation, hoping to at least get to see some skin as she changed. 

Carrie looked into his eyes, seeing his obvious desire for her and relented.  Why should she continue to be such a bitch to him when all he wanted was a little visual satisfaction?  She was certainly enjoying his little impromptu show, so why not?  What could it hurt?  She had to change into some clothes to sleep anyway since there was no way she would sleep naked, being a house guest.  She had to get up too many times in the night to risk running into someone if she was naked.  She slowly nodded, never looking his way as she stood up from the bed.  

John sighed in relief once she nodded.  Hot damn, he was gonna get to see her tight ass and maybe a whole lot more.  His hand resumed its lazy stroking, not wanting to rush anything, feeling the need to draw this out as long as he could.  No one was expecting either of them to be back down with the family anymore tonight.  He heard one of his brothers leave already and knew more would be leaving soon. 

John's wandering thoughts refocused on his baby as she left his side and the bed to walk to her suitcase.  John scooted up on the bed, leaning his back against the headboard to watch her better.  Wanting nothing to get in his way, he paused to yank his shirt off. 

Carrie grinned, knowing he couldn't see her face when her mind latched on to a naughty idea.  She found the large t shirt she was using for sleeping and a pair of oversized shorts, setting both back on to the closed suitcase.  With deliberate slowness, she eased her slacks down, slowing as they slid on her hips, and eventually pooling around her feet.  She stepped out of them, knowing John was getting an eyeful of her ass and her red lacy thong, complete with a large bow at the t junction.  She heard his groan coming from the bed, telling her he was definitely enjoying her little show.  She stayed with her back to him, unbuttoning her blouse, again with careful and deliberate movements. 

"Damn, Baby," John muttered through clenched teeth at her tease. 

She smirked, knowing she wasn't finished with him yet.  She slid one shoulder free, turning toward him so he could anticipate the sight.  Turning away, she heard him groan again.  Carrie slid the second shoulder free, letting the blouse fall to the floor.   

"Jesus," was all she heard from the man she was tormenting.  She knew her thong and bra matched, red lace and silk with very little else on either piece.  She did remember that red was a favorite color of John's, especially on her. 

"C'mere," John muttered.  He needed to be able to see her better, feel like he could reach out and touch her, even though he couldn't.  Carrie turned toward him slowly, glorying in the heat and passion she saw in his eyes.  The look he gave her chased away any doubt she felt regarding her sexiness tonight.  He obviously had no problems with her now rounding tummy and not so tight abs.  John's eyes never wavered in their inspection of the female form walking to him.  He'd never seen anything more sensual, more sexy than his baby tonight.  She resumed her seat on the bed, just out of range.  "You're beautiful," John said as he reached out, rubbing his thumb across her full bottom lip.  She blinked at his touch, staying quiet, suddenly feeling shy and inexperienced for some reason. 

John watched the change come over her with delight.  His baby suddenly shy?  The blush on her cheeks told him that her suddenly demure posture was no act.  His stopped his own self torment, cupping her face with both his large hands.  This woman stirred emotions in him that he’d never experienced.  Emotions that made his chest tight and his eye burn.  Emotions that made him feel like he could conquer the world for her.  He felt protective and empowered by her, something he didn’t think too much about before she came into his life.  Her sudden stillness under his hands brought his attention back to her, realizing that his silence must have worried her. 

“Nah, Baby,” John whispered tenderly as she tried to pull away and put her makeshift jammies on.  “Don’t go.  I gotta see you, touch you.  You make me fucking crazy,” John spoke the last with a soft smile for the potential mother of his children.  A realization struck him so quickly he knew it was right.  “Carrie, I want you here with me, this week.  I want to share my family with you,” he said, keeping his eyes on hers, willing her to believe him.  “It doesn’t matter about the babies.”  She stiffened before he said anything else.  He gently stroked his right thumb over her brow and lid.  Letting the other hand fall away, he knew he needed to explain himself better.  “Of course I don’t mean the boys aren’t important.  They are.  But I would want you here with me, even if we weren’t pregnant.”   

At his use of the pronoun we, Carrie couldn’t hide her smile.  We didn’t have to go pee every two seconds.  We weren’t gaining girth at an alarming rate either. 

“We aren’t pregnant, John.  I am.  I’m the one that’s getting fatter by the day.  I’m the one that feels like a tub of lard,” was all she managed to say before his mouth on her neck silenced her. 

“You’re wrong, sweetheart.  You and me are in this together.  And honey, you are beautiful,” John whispered, stroking a hand down her arm and capturing her fingers.  John meant every word.  He laid awake at nights in anonymous hotel rooms wondering about her, worrying if he could see her, talk to her more.  He needed her in his life.  He needed to wake up every day and see her face, hear her laughter.  Calling her multiple times a day was one of the few things that kept him sane.  Hearing her voice was one of the few constants in his busy life.  When all hell was breaking loose or when he was so tired he couldn’t remember the day of the week, talking to her helped it all make sense for him.  God, how fucked up was he gonna be once their boys were born, demanding his love and attention too?   

“John, don’t,” she whispered.  “I don’t want your pity.  I hate that,” she said, raising her eyes to meet his. 

“Baby, this ain’t pity,” he smirked, letting her eyes follow his back down to his still rock hard cock.  She blinked, knowing she’d crossed a line with him somehow tonight when she’d been trying to stay on the other side for both of their sakes.  But he was never one to let her get away with shit, and he’d done it again somehow.  He slid his hand through her hair, bringing her face inches from his.  “Not pity,” he rumbled just before his lips claimed hers.   

To stop herself from falling on top of him, she braced both her hands against his chest.  The accompanying rumble she felt through her fingers caused her to jerk her hands away, like she’d been scalded.  John pulled away, knowing he was pushing her further than he ever had, but it was worth it.  Her touches were worth it.  His eyes were burning into hers, telling her exactly what he wanted to do with her and why. 

Carrie tired to pull away and stand up, trying to put some distance between them.  His hand snaked out, grabbing her wrist gently. 

“Don’t go, Baby. I’ll be good.  I promise I won’t push you.  Scout’s honor,” he said with a wink. 

“That’s what you said before and now…” she mumbled. 

“Swear, Baby,” he said, crossing his heart.  “Stay here with me, let me look at you.”  At his words, she stopped pulling against him, resuming her seat but keeping a wary eye on him none the less. 

He smiled at her worried look and shoved his sweats back down so he could finish what he’d started before she showed him all that damn smooth skin and lace.   

Her eyes widened, taking in his obvious desire for her.  He must be crazy and blind.  No one in their right mind, oh wait.  That’s right, he’s never been in his right mind, or so he says.  That explains all of it.  She looked at him, all of him stretched out on the bed, shirtless with his sweats mid thigh sporting a rock hard cock supposedly for her.  Watching him, watching his muscles flex, she knew her flush was visible, but she couldn’t do a damn thing to hide it.  Not from him anyway. 

“Take it off,” he whispered, pointing at her red lace bra.  She thought it through, knowing if he got carried away she could always take him down.  She just hoped like hell she’d never have to resort to that again.  She stood, stepping away from the bed. 

“Okay, but no touching,” she whispered sternly.  He nodded, right hand crossing his heart again as he smiled.   

She turned away from him, in part so she could try to think of anything other than the hunk of man lying on the bed masturbating at the sight of her.  God, anything.  Think of the snow.  Taxes.  Anything. 

“Carrie,” his voice rasped.  She nodded, with her back still to him.  She reached up, sliding the clasp free between the cups, feeling the tension leave the lace.  She slid the straps down, enjoying getting out of the ill fitting garment.  She pulled it off and set it on top of her suitcase, as was her usual habit.  She turned around slowly, trying hard to not look at him on the bed, afraid her body would betray her again. 

“Jesus Christ,” John almost shouted, leaping off the bed quickly.  She blinked, seeing him in front of her suddenly.  “Carrie,” he whispered, his voice filled with awe.  “When?  What?  Why didn’t you tell me,” he asked, the questions tumbling on top of each other.  It took her several seconds to figure out what he was asking.  All she had to do was follow his eyes.  They were staring in fascination at the delicate chains dangling from her pierced nipples. 

“You’ve seen them before, haven’t you,” she asked, frowning.

“Um, no Baby. I haven’t.  Holy fuck, you are hot,” John said in reverence.  He gulped as he absently pulled his sweats up so he wouldn’t trip. 

“I had them done in Vancouver,” she said, clearly thinking he was mistaken. 

“Maybe so, Baby.  But it was after our time.  I would’ve remembered if you had them.  Trust me,” John grinned at her, finally meeting her eyes.  God damn, she’d gone and surprised him again.  This time with something so unexpected, he didn’t even know what to say.  He frowned, thinking back to that night in their kitchen.  She didn’t have them then.  Did she take them out sometimes or what? 

“How do you travel with all those metal detectors and shit,” he asked, suddenly curious as well as being hornier than hell for her.  He wanted to run his tongue over the little bar on either side of her nipple, just to feel it and watch her reactions.  She grimaced at his question. 

“Yeah, that sucks.  I have to take them out or I end up having to go strip for some under paid security guards.  Not my idea of fun.  Problem is, I forget to put them back in right away sometimes,” she said, not surprised to have him ask questions.  He was always analytical, in spite of his outward façade. 

He grinned, “Got any other piercings?”  His eyes darted to her thong, clearing indicating the piercing he was referring too. 

“What?  No.  Oh, hell no.  I don’t need one there.  I got enough problems with sensitivity, why the hell would I add to it,” she admitted.  His looked down at her, at her large eyes, her pointed chin, her now pierced and perky tits, all pointing up at him, clearly asking something of him.  He just wasn’t sure she wanted his answer.  

“Carrie,” he asked quietly as he dropped to his knees in front of her, giving him an even better view.   

“You promised,” she warned, ready to bolt. 

“I know,” he mumbled.  God he wanted to kiss her tits, he adored them and their surprisingly hot accessories.  He leaned in, unconsciously.  Carrie felt his heated breath on her tummy and breasts, sending her control skittering away again.  Without thinking, John brushed his lips across a nipple, causing her to gasp at his touch. 

“Let me,” he asked, looking up in to her darkened eyes.  She bit her lip, nodding slowly.   

John rubbed his face along the underside of her breast, gently touching, teasing both of them.  Opening his eyes, he realized she had three delicate chains dangling.  Each had a small charm at the end, one a crescent moon, one a star and the middle one was a bell.  He blew on the star, watching it sway free of the swell of the underside of her breast.  His tongue snuck out to capture it gently, exploring every little link.  He was surprised at the warmth of the metal initially, but as he pulled gently on the chain with his teeth hearing her sigh, all other thoughts receded. 

His hand slid up to her ass, holding her in place as he continued his inspection.  Her quiet groans told him his affect was more than he’d hoped for.  He nibbled his way to the other breast and its glittering adornment.  He licked his way around her nipple, purposely avoiding the chains for the moment.  His other hand had slid up to caress her back.  As he pulled away to begin a more thorough exploration, she thrust her now wet and shiny tit back at him, demanding more.  If that was what she wanted, he wasn’t going to deny her now.  No way.  He captured one of the chains gently and pulled her nipple back to his lips.  Her moan was all the answer he needed.  His hands slid around her ass, gripping handfuls.  As he changed tits again, she groaned in frustration, clearly needing something more.  His long fingers slid down the crack of her ass, following lace.  He gently pulled it aside as he continued his torment of her tits, enjoying how easily he could make her groan with every gentle tug on a chain.  His fingers paused after he lifted lace away, waiting for a sign or signal from her that she wouldn’t kick his ass.  Her hands slid up to the back of his head, cradling him as he suckled and pulled on her tits, letting him know he hadn’t walked over the line.  She was welcoming him, beckoning him to jump over it with her.  He slid his thumb up to her clit, causing an instant gasp.  Her legs buckled, forcing John to splay his other hand across her ass and hold her up as she climaxed in front of him.  He kept pulling the chains and tormenting her clit, eliciting more groans from her. 

“That’s right, let me have it.  I got ya,” he whispered, never lifting his head from her breasts.  She dug her nails in to his shoulders, relaxing after every shudder, digging in as she rode each wave.  He knew exactly when she was finished.  His shoulders tingled in pain, but it was a damn good pain. 

“You’re beautiful,” he whispered, loud enough for her to hear over her slowing pants.   

She shook her head without comment, still rattled by the intensity of her release.  Oh god, she’d gone and done it again.  She knew better.  She knew her control was shit tonight, it was one of the reasons she’d excused herself earlier.  She kept having images of throwing John down on the kitchen table, ripping his clothes off and fucking him until he begged for mercy.  She drew a shaky breath and raked her hair before she risked another look at the man that was on his knees in front of her.  A man that she couldn’t seem to stay away from, no matter how hard she tried.  No matter what logic she tried.  She couldn’t seem to keep her emotions or her hormones in check around him.  She wasn’t about to let him know how raw her emotions were.  That they didn’t need.  They had enough problems without her throwing more shit on to the pile.  The hormones?  Well shit, she couldn’t very well deny that, not after the intense orgasm he’d just given her.  But she was going to try her damnedest to keep the rest of herself in check.  It was cleaner and easier that way. 

“John, I’m sorry.  I didn’t mean,” was all the apology she got out before he shushed her by placing a finger on her lips with a smile. He stood back up, giving his knees a break, stretching his neck and flexing his shoulders as he did so. 

“Sweetheart, you ain’t got nothing to be sorry about. That was the hottest thing I have seen.  I didn’t know we had that in us still,” he teased.  By using we, he was talking about them again as a unit.  He’d been doing it a lot the last few days, and she’d let it slide when they were around his family.  Besides, she secretly enjoyed the thought of being surrounded by all that was Cena.  His family was welcoming and supportive, never asking more of her than she was willing to give.  But then, they probably never would. 

“Yeah, I do.  Look at you,” she giggled.  John shrugged, taking in his protruding sweats and accompanying leakage spot. 

“Baby, I can fix that right now,” he said, shoving his sweats down.  He didn’t bother with the bed, he grabbed his cock right where he stood, and stroked himself rapidly.  “Kiss me,” he asked, never slowing his strokes.  She nodded, claiming his lips but staying clear of his body.  Her hand slid up to his neck, grazing her nails over the back of his neck, pulling growls from him.  His strokes became more violent, shaking both of them as he struggled to reach completion.  John heard a quiet metallic tinkling, sending him over the edge.  “Oh god, Baby,” he whispered just before he started to shoot.  Without thought, she bent to take him in her mouth, swallowing all of his release.  He groaned, tremors still rocking his body, making speech impossible if he wanted to remain upright.  Carrie lifted her head after licking him clean, smiling into his sated and surprised eyes. 

“You’ve been saving up or what,” she teased, hinting at the force of his own release.  He shook his head slowly. 

“No way, Baby.  I’ve been jacking off a couple times a day since you got here.  But you, tonight? And those bells?  Man, when your titty bells started to go, I lost it.  That is so hot,” he grinned.  He kissed her slowly, tasting his spooge on her tongue.  Something that would normally gross him out, but not tonight.  Not with her.  She was so hot.  Those bells and then for her to swallow him?  Shit, he wasn’t sure if he’d ever be able to calm down enough to go to sleep tonight. 

“Carrie, we gotta get some sleep tonight.  You’ve got a long day tomorrow.  Flying out after lunch and more Cena hospitality,” he teased.  She nodded, smiling as she walked back to her suitcase and her sleepwear. 

“Is everybody still here,” she asked. 

“Oh hell no.  They left when you were telling me I was your big bad booty daddy,” he teased her again.  Her eyes went wide. 

“You bastard, I did not,” she turned on him trying to hide her grin, now clad in a black oversized Legend Killer shirt.  

“No you didn’t.  But sweetheart, you didn’t have to,” John smirked, slipping his own shirt back on.  She gave him a glare, knowing he’d see through it.   

“Night, Baby.  I love you, too,” he said, closing the door on her protestations.  John grinned, knowing she hadn’t been anywhere near a weather forecast since she arrived.  She had no idea that she was likely to be staying for a couple more days.  His family knew but probably didn’t realize she didn’t.  He wasn’t about to spoil the surprise for her.  If Mother Nature was smiling on him, she’d be staying for a Cena family Christmas after all. 

*** 

“You sure about this,” Rebecca asked Randy, heading out to her car. 

“Absolutely.  You told me you loved the beach so I wanna see it,” Randy said quietly, watching her ass as she walked to her car.  Rebecca frowned at his words.  Did he remember everything she told him?  That was kind of creepy. 

Rebecca looked at her piece of shit car, then back to the tall man with her knowing there was no way they’d be comfortable for the hour long drive to the beach in it.   

Randy saw the dilemma and saved her with, “Let’s take my rental, it’s got gas and leg room.”  Bec nodded in relief. 

“Let me just drop my car off at my place.  I hate leaving it here,” she said, opening her car door.  Randy blinked in surprise, recovering quickly to jump in his car and follow her.  Good thing his BMW sport utility vehicle was snappy.  He had a tough time keeping up with her in her little green Honda as she whipped in and out of traffic easily.  Finally after so many blown red lights and turning back on himself at least a half dozen times that he counted, he spotted Rebecca’s little car pulling into an apartment complex.  Fucking finally.  If he didn’t know any better, he could’ve swore she was doing her damnedest to lose him. 

“You almost lost me back there,” Randy said, stepping out of his car.  Rebecca nodded to herself.  She had, in fact, been trying halfheartedly to lose him.  In part because she still was weary of him and his sudden appearance at her door. 

“Yeah, sorry.  I forgot.  I’ve lived here my whole life so I take all kinds of shortcuts and shit,” was all she said, grabbing a heavy jacket and her camera out of her car.  She turned the key in the lock, thinking hard about what she was about to do – get in a car with a man she didn’t know very well and go to the beach, in the middle of winter.  She was nuts, that’s all the was to it.  Jade’s premonition had finally come true.  She’d lost it, definitely.   

Shaking those dark thoughts aside, she turned back to the WWE superstar with her smile firmly in place.  Randy grinned back at her, excited about getting to see the Californian coast line.  Especially with her. 

“You chariot awaits,” Randy smirked, holding her door open for her.   

“Thanks,” Rebecca said quietly, startled that Randy seemed to know that she’d been thinking that she was in some sort of fairy tale.   

After helping him navigate around town, pointing him in the direction of the coast, Rebecca ran out of things to say, suddenly shy and intimidated.  Randy risked a quick glance at the beautiful woman seated to his right, worried that he’d somehow upset or offended her by his joking.  She didn’t look upset, just miles away, lost in her own thoughts.  Or as his mom used to tease him, “wool gathering”. 

“How’s the sheep,” Randy teased, using another one of his mom’s gentle teases.  Rebecca looked at him sharply.

“What?”  He must have been dropped on his head, she thought. 

“Nothing, just something my mom used to say when I was day dreaming,” Randy admitted quietly.  Rebecca looked away from him in confusion.  Just when she though he was gonna get all uppity with attitude, he surprised her again with something his mom used to say.  What the hell?   

The quiet from the seat next to him was making him crazy.  He couldn’t stand it, worried that he’d somehow screwed up with her.  He thought of something else to talk about instead, wanting to learn more about her and her daily routine. 

“What do you normally do at this time of day,” Randy asked since he’d never called her in the late afternoon her time. 

“Go to the gym,” she answered automatically.  Randy grinned.  He’d forgotten that she went to the gym almost daily.  Although looking at her, he shouldn’t have.  She had a firm, toned body, giving credence to her time at the gym. 

“Do you go by yourself or,” Randy asked, wanting to draw her out and talk about something along the way. 

“Jade and I usually go together,” she admitted.  Randy nodded. 

“And Jade is the friend who you thought I was on the phone,” he asked, reminding her again that he had a damn good memory. 

“Yeah, sorry about that,” she said, grinning at his profile as he drove.  Do not melt into a puddle on the upholstery.  Not cool.  At all.  Keep your mind on safer things.  Like his hands on the steering wheel.  The way they held it secure but loose – like how he held you in his arms.  Do NOT think that.  Stay away from that.  More to keep her mind from going down dangerous paths, Rebecca continued on with the gym thread. 

“Yeah, she and I go way back, plus we both like to go to the gym and check out the hot guys,” she blurted out.  Shutting her mouth suddenly at her blunder, she wanted to die on the spot.  Randy quirked a brow at her. 

“Hot guys, huh?  Should I be jealous,” he asked, more worried than his teasing tone conveyed.  Rebecca was unable to stop the very un-ladylike snort that escaped at his question.  Him worried by those ‘roid heads?  Not hardly.  Plus, most of them were so stuck on themselves.  Her and Jade didn’t want to talk to them, they were just eye candy. 

“Hardly.  Most of them are so jacked on ‘roids their dicks are inverted,” Rebecca said quickly.  Sudden silence greeted her announcement.  Randy blinked in shock at her words initially before he realized how funny it sounded to him.  He started laughing, knowing that the guys at her gym would hate to think that was how they were perceived, dickless muscle heads. 

“And you’re an expert on this,” he laughed at her.  She nodded seriously then realizing he was teasing her and laughed with him.  They spent the rest of the trip to the beach laughing about the things steroids were reported to do to the human anatomy, male and female.  Randy hadn’t laughed so hard in months, and never with a woman before.  It felt good to relax and joke around with someone, instead of always having to watch what he said, to who he said it and why.  That sudden intrusive thought caught him off guard for a moment, knowing his ass was in a sling for his latest fiasco, but Vince said they’d talk after the holidays.  And if Vince said they’d talk, they would, but it wasn’t going to be termination talk or they would’ve done it already and he knew it.  It was probably just more of the father type shit Vince always pulled with him.  Nothing to sweat over right now and ruin his day with her. 

Rebecca noticed his sudden silence and worried.  Had she overstepped the bounds by declaring that anyone stupid enough to take steroids deserved whatever side effects they got? 

“You can park anywhere,” Rebecca broke the silence with.  Randy eased the luxury car in to one of the hundreds of open spots, facing the ocean beach. 

“God, it’s so beautiful,” Randy said quietly, shutting the car off.  “I can see why you like it.”   

Rebecca nodded and jumped out, thrilled to be back at the beach.  She snagged her coat and camera automatically.  She left the car and man behind without a second thought as she focused on the scenery in front of her.  Her camera was up to her face quickly as she scanned for items of interest.  Randy watched her actions with amusement.  She’d told him about her photography, about her passion.  And here she was, ignoring him for the seagulls.  He should be pissed about that, but for some reason, he wasn’t.  He grabbed his jacket and hat, knowing the wind could be brutal.   

He watched for many minutes as Rebecca seemed to take tons of pictures of items that he didn’t or couldn’t see.  He passed the time alternating looking at the ocean or looking at her.  Of the two, she was much more appealing to him.   

Looking at his watch, he was shocked to realize they’d been at the beach for a couple of hours already.  He scanned the beach for her since he’d been staring out at the waves as they rolled in, trying to find where her and her camera had wandered off to.  He craned his neck, looking first left, then right, not seeing her long brown hair getting whipped by the wind anymore.  Panic set in instantly. 

“Rebecca,” he shouted glancing around, worried for her safety.  Son of a bitch!  If something happened to her, he worried striding south along the beach in his sneakers, not giving two shits that he was ruining a pair of three hundred dollar shoes.  He was focused on finding Rebecca safe, anything else was unimportant. 

“Rebecca,” he shouted again.  No response.  Feeling his heart in his throat, he continued south, shouting her name every few steps.  “Rebecca!  C’mon baby, where are you?”  He broke into a sprint, too worried that she’d somehow hurt herself climbing on driftwood or worse.  Someone had taken her.  God, don’t even think that.  “Rebecca!” 

“What,” her head popped up on his left, near the dunes.   

“Jesus,” Randy swore as he veered to her, relief making him giddy.  Rebecca watched Randy run toward her with alarm.  She looked behind her, unsure what would cause him to be so stressed.  She barely had turned back to him when she was wrapped up in his arms being swept off her feet. 

“’Oh thank god you’re alright.  Sweet Jesus, you scared me,” Randy murmured, kissing the top of her head and holding her tightly. 

“Of course I’m all right,” Rebecca said sourly, suddenly pissed that this man picked her up like she was a doll.  A mere possession.  “Put me down, Randy.  I’m fine.  What’s the big deal?” 

Randy let out his breath slowly, too weak from relief to rise to her challenge.  He set her down on the sand gently and stepped away, suddenly realizing that he’d exposed his heart without meaning to in his panic. 

“Sorry, Rebecca.  I didn’t mean to…” was all he said, unsure of what to say to the woman he realized he was madly in love with. 

“It’s okay, just don’t pick me up like that again.  I don’t like that shit.  I could’ve dropped my camera,” she said, sending him a fierce glare. 

“Sorry, sweetheart,” Randy said, feeling two feet tall and insecure as hell.  Rebecca took in the dejected air of the WWE superstar, suddenly realizing what a total bitch she’d been when all he’d been was worried about her.  She sighed.   

“You surprised me, that’s all.  And I almost dropped my camera,” she said quietly, reaching for his hand.  Randy let her fingers caress his hand, letting her know her apology had been accepted.  As soon as that thought crossed his mind, his ego flared up in revolt.  What the fuck did he care if she accepted his apology?  Who was she anyway?  Just some woman that he barely knew.  He stomped down on the Legend Killer persona, knowing he didn’t have to hide behind it with her. 

“Sorry.  I just got worried when I looked around and didn’t see you.  I thought maybe something happened to you or some shit,” Randy explained, finally making eye contact.  Rebecca’s eyes widened in surprise at his admission.  A sudden realization struck her. 

“It’s partly my fault, Randy.  I get tunnel vision when I have my camera with me,” Rebecca admitted.  “At least that’s what Jade says.” 

“She’s right.  But that’s your passion and I understand that.  I get it.  Just remind me to stick close next time so one of us knows what’s going on, okay,” Randy asked.  She nodded in silence, tucking her camera away into her coat for now.  She’d taken her fill and wanted to explore the beach with Randy too.  Randy threaded his fingers with hers, sensing she was willing to spend time with just him, leaving her camera put away for now. 

“What kind of stuff were you taking pictures of,” Randy asked, tugging her along in the general direction of the car. 

“Just stuff.  It’s hard to describe really.  Some of it is just light and textures, but some of it,” she stopped, incapable of describing some of the things she’d captured today. 

“Will you show me over dinner,” Randy asked.  Rebecca looked over at him sharply, the idea of dinner hadn’t crossed her mind.  She’d been so absorbed that it had completely slipped her mind. 

“It’s kinda hard to see, my camera’s not that good,” Rebecca said quietly.  Once they reached the car, Randy slowed, pulling Rebecca to stop with him. 

“Rebecca, I’m sorry about earlier.  I didn’t mean to maul you,” he said quietly, knowing she hated to be crowded.  Rebecca stepped in close to him, wrapping her arms around his ribs, leaning her head against his chest.  His hand came up automatically, pulling her in a little closer, mindful of being too pushy.  His head dipped down, letting him breathe in the scent of her hair. 

“Randy,” Rebecca said quietly, pulling her head away from the warmth and security of his chest.  Randy looked into her serious eyes, loosing himself again.  He lowered his head without thinking, brushing his lips against hers.  Her hands slid up around his neck as she opened her lips, caught up in the feeling of being in his arms at her favorite place in the world – the beach.  Randy’s hand slid up cupping her jaw softly, exploring every inch of her mouth, knowing he wanted to explore every other inch of her as thoroughly.  Rebecca’s hands slid across his wide shoulders, glorying in the strength she could feel bunched under his shirt.  Randy pulled his lips away, needing to kiss her jaw, her neck, her ear.  He wanted to taste her so bad he hurt with his need.  But knowing how much he loved her and didn’t want to lose her with his impatience, he settled for bringing his lips back to hers.  Rebecca felt daring in his arms, allowing her the freedom to let her hands roam, feeling every muscle, every curve in his back.  God she wanted to dig her nails in but didn’t.  That would be ridiculous, she didn’t know him well enough to mark him.  But holy shit, did she ever want to.  Know him, that is and mark him.  Oh hell yes.  Knowing she was on the verge of doing something totally stupid, she pulled her lips away from his neck, leaving a small mark behind in spite of herself. 

“Dinner,” she asked the suddenly silent man in front of her.  He stared at her for several heart beats, before he nodded. 

“Yeah, dinner,” he said, trying to get his wits back.  Rebecca shivered in his arms because the wind had picked up and she was now no longer focused solely on her view finder.  “Here sweetheart.  Take mine,” Randy said, slipping off his jacket and throwing it over her.  She pulled his warmed coat over the top of hers, feeling the chill leave instantly.  She savored being wrapped in his scent.  Realizing that she was acting like some love struck teenager with her nose in his coat grinning, she took his hand and started to the car. 

Randy pressed the button to unlock the doors, following her to her door so he could open it for her.  She tried to dig her hand out of the ridiculously long sleeve of his coat and gave up.  It was at least six inches too long, but damn it was warm.  She slipped it off regretfully, handing it back to him with her thanks. 

“Anytime, sweetheart,” Randy murmured, watching her ass again as she got n the car.  Damn, he definitely had a thing for her ass.  He had when he first met her and now, hell now he wanted to all kinds of thing to and for her ass.  Shaking his head, he stepped around to his side.   

Once he got in, Rebecca asked him, “How long are you here for?”  Instead of answering her directly, he leaned over, capturing her lips, wanting to taste her again.  Rebecca felt his hand in her hair, teasing her to let go.  God, if he slid his fingers through it, she was toast.  Not ready to jump into that mess with him since she still didn’t trust him entirely yet, she pulled herself away.  Her eyes on him still waiting for an answer, he couldn’t ignore. 

“I gotta go home to my family tomorrow for the holiday.  My dad will shit if I bail on him this year.  My grandpa passed recently so,” Randy said, quietly.  He hoped his explanation was enough for her right now.  It seemed to be since she nodded in silent acceptance of it.  A sudden thought flared through her. 

“Where were you planning on staying tonight,” Rebecca demand, suddenly pissed at his presumption.  Randy shrugged.  He honestly hadn’t thought that far ahead. 

“Some motel in town, I guess,” he admitted, not really caring where he stayed.   

“Good luck, they’re all booked up thanks to the holiday parades.  Even the motel six is booked,” Rebecca said sadly.  How anyone could fly out without knowing or planning where they were gonna sleep was beyond her. 

“Shit,” Randy muttered.  Hell with it, he’d figure it out after dinner.  “I gotta eat something soon, so tell me where I’m taking you.”  As Rebecca started to protest, he continued.  “Don’t you dare point me to a fast food place.  I get enough of that shit on the road.  I want to take you some place nice.”  At his words, Rebecca shut her mouth for a moment, thinking quickly.  She had planned on directing him to a diner, but at his words she realized he probably also would like a place where he could relax and not get hounded.  She knew she didn’t want to deal with that again so soon.  Settling on a place she only ever seen the outside of, she navigated him to an exclusive restaurant not far up the road, over looking her beloved beach.   

“Good choice,” Randy said, pulling into the parking area.  A valet opened Rebecca’s door, helping her out.  Randy grinned at her expression, knowing she’d never had a car valet’d before.  There were so many things he wanted to share with her, but knew he had to go slow.  The last thing he wanted to do was spook her.  He’d been worried that was exactly what he’d done at RAW since she ignored or didn’t return his calls suddenly.  But now was the time to let her know he was serious and he intended to stick around, even if his job pulled him away.  He led her in to the restaurant, his plan firmly in place. 

Randy had no idea what they ate for dinner; he was too busy staring at the creature across from him.  He tried not to stare, but he found himself speechless at times or unable to answer a question from her because his head and his heart were floating.  It felt like he was watching someone else sit and eat while he watched every movement, every nuance of the woman he loved.  God, he was a sap but he couldn’t be happier. 

“Randy,” Rebecca tried again.  She rolled her eyes at his spacey-ness.  He’d been acting really weird all through dinner, and it was starting to freak her out just a little. 

“Yeah, sweetheart,” he said softly, his eyes never leaving her face. 

“I said you can sleep on my couch since there isn’t any place within 20 miles that has rooms,” Rebecca said, worried that she might regret her offer.  Randy blinked as reality intruded into his dream world where nothing but her and Rebecca existed. 

“Uh, that’s fine.  I mean. Thanks.  I can sleep anywhere.  A couch, a floor, wherever,” he said, not wanting to make her think he was trying to pressure her into letting him in her bed.  When she did, he wanted her to have no regrets, accepting him with open arms and legs. 

“Okay.  Look,” Rebecca said, leaning in to him embarrassed.  “I have to get home soon.  It’s not that I’m not having a good time, but I have Goldy at home that gets pissed if he doesn’t get fed regularly.” 

Randy nodded, he’d temporarily forgotten her hell cat.  The same cat that stomped up and down her in the morning, demanding to be fed. 

“Okay, baby.  Let me just take care of this so we can go.  I’d hate to have Goldy shred anything else,” Randy winked at her. 

On the drive home, Rebecca sternly told herself she did not jump into bed with someone she barely knew.  She did not need to get laid, no matter what Jade said.  She did not let the barely known man kiss her in the car, no matter how good it felt.  She spoke up only to tell Randy which street to take to get back to her apartment, unsure if he’d realize how circuitous her earlier route had been.  Once parked he grinned at her, letting her know he’d busted her on the earlier trick she’d played on him as he followed her. 

“Let me grab my bag,” Randy said reaching into the back for a small overnight bag.  Rebecca nodded, slowing up for him.  His long legged strides made her waiting for him unnecessary.  Rebecca had already said a silent thank you to the fact that she’d cleaned her apartment this morning before leaving for work, so he wasn’t going to be walking into a complete shit hole.  It was small and sparsely furnished, but it was hers and that’s all she ever cared about. 

Randy followed her in, closing the door quickly in case Goldy tried to escape.  She’d told him all about the feline’s exploits.  Once closed, he looked around, seeing her home as a reflection of her personality.  She had some seriously cool shit happening on one of her windows, letting in colored evening light instead of just a sunset.  Plants seemed to be on every window sill, looking healthy and well cared for.  Her living area was small, but neat and tidy.  The couch looked too small for him, but he kept his mouth closed.  He’d sleep on her floor, no biggie.  Rebecca dropped her keys on her small table, searching for the destructive feline. 

“Goldy you little bastard, where are you?  Dinner,” she coaxed, grabbing his plate and filling it.  Randy spotted an orange blur of fur streak past him from parts unknown heading toward Rebecca.  “Here you are, piglet.”  Randy grinned at the endearment. 

“There’s the couch,” Rebecca stated unnecessarily, suddenly feeling over whelmed and crowded in her own place.  Her great idea of giving him the couch wasn’t feeling so great right now.  “Down on the right is the bathroom and at the end is my room.”  Randy nodded, seeing her tense and not wanting to cause her more distress. 

“The couch and me are gonna work great tonight,” Randy lied. 

“Okay, let me get you a pillow and some blankets so I don’t forget them later.  When I get tired my brain tends to shut down and I forget stuff,” she admitted, walking away quickly.  Oh god, she did not have a huge sexy man in her apartment.  She did not.  This was so unlike her.  What the hell was she thinking?  She wasn’t and that was her problem.  She returned with the pillow and blankets, setting them on the end of the couch.  Randy had stayed standing, not sure what she wanted or what was acceptable. 

“Have a seat,” she said, pointing to her couch.  He nodded, grabbing her hand and taking her with him.  He just wanted to kiss and hold her tonight.  His body wanted other things, but he was more than prepared to wait thinking that the prize was going to be worth it. 

“Randy, I don’t,” was all she got out before he put a finger to her lips, smiling in to her eyes. 

***

top
 

Web site questions or issues?  Try
All graphics, original fiction and site ©